The STAR Newspaper is an excellent community-based newspaper produced weekly in print and in an electronic pdf version. It is published by veteran journalist Alberto August and edited by his wife Nyani Azueta-August. The couple formerly published the Stann Creek STAR Newspaper in Dangriga before relocating their operations to Santa Elena, Cayo in June 2004. Click here for the latest paper and back issues.

Click here for the Sunday, August 7, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, August 14, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, August 21, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, August 28, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, September 4, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, September 11, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, October 9, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Tuesday, October 25, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Tuesday, November 6, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, November 13, 2011 paper.

Once more, an outstanding local paper! Thanks!

Well, this edition is dated "Tuesday, 13 November 2011" Huh? Different time zone out in Cayo?

Whatever the date, this edition misses the biggest story in months, the brutal murder in a home invasion of Dr. Larry Johnson. Deadline or not, it should have been covered, at least in the digital edition.

The rest of this edition is primarily a mug sheet, a litany of crimes in Cayo. In that respect the Star is starting to become like Amandala and the other port city papers, a few news items wrapped around murders and shootings. Sad that this is the main focus of news reporting in Belize today.

So as an old newspaper guy myself, I'd have to give this edition a C- at best.

--Lan Sluder

Click here for the Sunday, November 20, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, November 27, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, December 11, 2011 paper.

Click here for the Sunday, December 25, 2011 paper.

Police Looking For Dale Augustine
Valdez Jackers Still At Large
Mr. Norman Gilbert Simplis Laid To Rest
The Root Cause Of Crime In Cayo
Ministry of Health Improves On The Surveillance Of Food Borne Disease (FBD)
Regional Award For The Nutrition Unit
More Belizeans Countrywide Benefit From Dental Service
Benque Viejo's Coronation Park Restored
Galen University - Sacred Heart College Junior College - A Magnificent Display Of Cooperation In Education
Land Registration
United Belizeans Incorporated Spread Christmas Cheer Among Needy Belizeans
... and LOTS of Season's Greetings!!!!

The January 8th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Donovan Casildo And A Minor Charged For The Murder Of Sylvan Roberts Jr.
• Don Teod Laid To Rest
• Giovanni Bring Home The Championship
• Introducing Our New Magistrate, Mrs. Nardia Morgan
• Guatemalan Man Busted with Weed
• STAR Humor
• Naturalized Belizean Guatemalan Couple Found With Two Sacks Of Mota
• Your Weekly Horoscope & Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• A Soldier Remanded For Gun And Bullets, Wife Freed On Bail
• Phillip Burns Wins Hell Of The West Race
• Sadden By Mrs. Abigail Wade's Departure from Santa Elena Primary School
• Liquor License Notices

The January 22nd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Mr. Bone And Wife Joins Sons And Daughters-In Law In Jail
• Conspiracy orCoincidence?
• Change, Move Out or Go To Jail - New Sheriff In Town
• A Police Formation Marred With Allegations Of Irregular Behavior
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices
• Attacking The Red Top Scourge
• Your Invitation To Attend The Fiesta
• You Are Invited To Attend SOLARFEST2012
• Jorge David Awe To Launch New Book
• TeakettleMan BustedWithWeed

The January 29th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Trevor Jones Gets 10 Years In Jail For Gun and Bullets
• Steer Clear Of The Courtroom Of Magistrate Morgan
• Adapting The Broken Window Theory Of Policing
• Miralda Goes Away For Seven Years
• The STAR Newspaper is steadfast Anti-All-CORRUPT and IRREGULAR POLICEMEN OR POLICEWOMEN
• Know Ye, All Who Sags
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The February 5th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Santa Elena Businesswoman, Narcisa "Nancy" Orellana, Gets 18 Months Prison Sentence
• Guatemalan Boy Remanded To Jail
• Guest Editorial: The Vast Majority Of Belizeans Will Vote Against Ashcroft: By Dr. Errol Elrington
• Body OfMissing Boy Found InWell
• Call For Referendum Falls Offshore
• OIL, Is It The Devil's Excretement? or God's Gift To Mankind?
• Alcoholism And Alcohol Abuse Signs, Symptoms & Help
• Benque CadetsWins In Belmopan
• Belize ShinesAtL.AandCanadianTrade Shows
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 22nd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

After more than 12 years in the business, the time has now come for new, young and fresh blood to be injected into the STAR Newspaper. It is in this light that the reigns are being passed on to my son, Albert Nigel August, who after several years of coaching has come of age and has demonstrated both the willingness and the ability to shoulder the responsibility of putting together a product that readers and advertisers alike look forward to getting each week. Notwithstanding this change, the wife, Nyani, will continue to be the foundation of the STAR as Albert Nigel steps in to fill the void. He has, over the past weeks, been introduced to the major stakeholders in the business and is now ready to truly demonstrate his capabilities. While the transision has been in the making for several months, the departure could not come about in the absence of an unshakable understading of the purpose of the STAR within the community combined with the firm commitment of none diviation from that purpose. The change also includes the relocation of the office to the Hoffman Complex, Apartment #5 on the Western Highway, across from Tropigas Store, in Santa Elena. The email address and telephone numbers remain unchanged.

This Week's Stories:

• Arrested Burglar Caught On Camera
• Retired Educator Honored
• Two Boys Busted With Gun And Bullets Sent To Jail
• Editorial: The Son Steps In
• Should Gentle Go ... Should Gentle Stay
• A Missing Pistol And Bullets
• End Of April Is Agric Show Time
• Update On The Municpal Development Project In San Ignacio
• Healthy lifestyle Tips
• Elections & Boundaries Commission Chairman Resigns
• The Book- The Economic History Of Belize
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 29th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Boy Accused Of Burglarizing A Policeman's House
• Sacred Heart College Wins Again: District elimination round of the Secondary School Nutrition Quiz competition
• Former Police Commander Arrested On A Small Charge
• Editorial: Better Days Await Us
• Businessman's House Burglarized Shotgun And Cartridges Stolen
• Electricity Workers Union Stage Mid-day Demonstration
• A Cutting Edge Educator Coming To Belize Soon: Dr. Joyce Burick Swarzrman
• Gun And Ammunition Charges Against Corporal Cajun Dismissed
• Peoples Coalition of Cayo Wants Gentle To Stay
• There Is No Charge For Love
• Paved Road - No More Dust - Jobs Coming Soon
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices
• People's Coalition of Cayo Recognise Community Policemen
• Former Police Commander Arrested

The May 6th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• PC Francis Aldana Criminally Charged
• A Whole Sack Of Weed
• World Health Day 2012
• Ministry of Health hosted Council Meeting of INCAP
• Dead Bodies Stacking Up In The Morgues
• Six Policemen Return From San Salvador Training
• The Brain of 14 Year Old Brian Schweigler
• Santa Elena Man Found Dead At Home
• Two Journalists Killed In Mexico
• Editorial: End The Nuisance - Not Rocket Science
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

Nice Story about a bright 14 year old San Pedro High student.

I'm wondering though; how did the local media manage to miss this

The May 13th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• 67 Year Old Santa Elena Man Charged For Rape
• Guatemalan Man Found With Gun And Bullets
• Ian Lizarraga - New BTB Chairman
• Fire Destroys 1 Millon Dollars Worth of Lumber
• The Full Article On PC #11 Francis Aldana
• Editorial: Much Needed Improvements In Dispensing Justice In The Nation
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 20th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• San Ignacio Teacher Found Dead Inside Family House
• Santa Familia Villager Gets 10 Years For Gun And Bullets
• From Guatemalan University Of Belizean Jail
• Sacred Heart College - Remembers A Deceased Teacher, Marco Thompson
• On Their Journey To Explore M.O.R.E
• Cancer Awareness Week At The San Ignacio Community Hospital
• BECOL Donates Supplies To Community Policing Unit
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Come Better Or Stay The Hell Out Of Our Town!
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 27th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Kevin Santos - Back In Trouble Again
• No Foul Play Suspected In Murcia's Death
• Twelve Months Jail Time For Escaping Lawful Custody
• Second Annual Hopkins Mango Festival
• $1.4 MILLION MARKET PROJECT LAUNCHED IN DANGRIGA
• My Thoughts On The ICJ, by Rudolph Bowman
• Cuba Says Prison Population At More Than 57,000
• Atlantic Bank launches enhanced GoMobile
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Is This Just Another Display Of The Slave Master Mentality?
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 3rd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Imported Robbers With Local Connections
• American Charged For Guatemalan Death
• Chester Williams Is Back Again
• Together We Can Achieve Education For All
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 17th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three New Classrooms For Bishop Martin School
• Caretella And Pagett Freed Of Murder Charge
• Improved Water Services Coming Soon
• OCEANA HOST FAMILIARIZATION TOUR FOR MEDIA
• Faith Nazerene Gets A Facelift
• Gomez Remanded To Prison On Carnal Knowledge Charges
• Farewell to a Belizean Child
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 1, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Where Does One Hide A Stolen 2,500 Gallon Water Tank?
• Benguche's Second Drug Sentence
• Cayo's Andr� Lopez Elected Rotary District Governor
• Tropigas Burglarized - Two Men Caught On Camera
• The Belize Rural Finance Programme Extending Rural Services To The Cayo District
• Another Home Invasion In Santa Elena
• "Let's Unite And Continue To Make Belize Safer"
• Congratulations Mitzi Cruz
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Just Simply Not Cutting It
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 8th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Esquivel Takes The Rap - Pandy Walks
• Belize City Men Busted With Guatemalan Weed
• A Few Chancy Men Still Around
• The Tragic Passing of Marco Tulio Polanco
• Will Cristo Rey Village Ever Get Water Again?
• Truly An Inspiration - In Just Six Hours. $15,180.36 Contributed To A Worthy Cause
• Ministry Donate Machines For Dengue Control Program
• Ministry of Health participates in Indigenous Children Symposium
• HECOPAB conducts workshop for Community Health Workers
• Regional HIV Testing Day
• Ceibo Chico Conservation Post And South Chiquibul Joint Enforcement Unit Launched
• Opponent Demand Recount In Mexico's Presidential Election
• Successful Lobster Festivals 2012
• Meet Charles The Tree Frog
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Facts Are Stubborn Things
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 15th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• More Western Weed For Eastern Streets
• Two Cayo Students Honored
• The Passing Of Mr. George "Bibi" Waight
• Fostering Literacy To Sustain National Development
• Death of Marco Tulio Polanco
• Jordanian MP Pulls Gun During Live TV Debate
• Did You See The Ghosts in the Market?
• Stop Selling Alcohol To Minors
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Will This One Be Likewise Swept Under The Rug?
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 22nd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Lowe Blow Injures Vasquez
• Pandy And Trapp Get Five Years
• American Woman, Susan Jean Harrsen, Found Dead
• Sugar City Hosts Fiestarama Business Expo And Fair 2012!
• Cayo Becoming Belize's Hollywood
• BWCN Jaguar Rescue
• Manhunt By Foot, Motorcycle, Vehicle And Plane
• Paulino Gets Nine Months
• Belize Represented At CCT Meeting In Nicaragua
• Why Does Belize Have To Do like Others?
• Decriminalizating Marijuana
• Cayo Archaeological Sites To Benefit From Sustainable Tourism Program (STP)Investment
• Human Rights Watch attacks 'abuse of power' in Venezuela
• Rural Chinese get online as mobile overtakes desktop
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Anything else is just a waste of precious time
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 29th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Boys Accused of Wounding Men In Santa Familia
• Advisory Council Orders Castellanos' Reinstatement
• Security Supervisor Facing Attempt Murder
• After Holding On For Over 50 Hours Police Corporal Victor Lima Passed Away
• Three 9mm Pistols And Fourteen Bullets Taken
• Benque Viejo Summer Camp For Children
• Cuban President Raul Castro "Willing To Talk To US"
• Japanese women fall behind Hong Kong in longevity
• Chest Pain
• Olympic Torch Arrives In London
• All Roads Leading To Hopkins This Weekend For Hopkins Day
• Tropical Vision Ltd., Channel 7 Presents Olympic Coverage With Caribbean Flavour
• Eight Tips On Table Etiquette
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The Sunday, August 5th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Otto & Brandon Coleman On Remand For Wounding
• Decorated BDF Captain Charged For Firearm Offences
• Tourism Board Donates Motorcycles To Police
• Victor Lima: Fallen In The Line Of Duty
• Adding True Meaning To Community Policing
• Cristo Rey Neighborhood Watch Start-Up Meeting
• Office Etiquette for Every Employee
• Selfish - Selfless - Self-Love
• Two Belizean Students Win Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Foundation Poster Competition
• The Literacy Project is Training Across Belize
• Calling All Artists To Register Now
• Belmopan Men Charged With Kidnapping And Harm
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 12th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Howe Gets Two Months For Beating Father-In-Law
• No Helmet, No License, No Insurance... BOOM!!! Bullets! Ten Of Them
• "These Are The Facts" Writes Samuel August
• Street Project Launched In The Nation's Capital
• Decriminalization of The Use Of Marijuana
• Seven Member Belize Delegation Attends Football Workshop in Guatemala
• John Lawrence Remand Again On Another Robbery Charge
• Obesity In Children
• A Memorial In Mexico City For Victims Of Drug Violence
• Letters to the Editor
  • Policemen MUST Record Statements
  • That Sleeping/Gambling Policeman
  • Let Us Keep Our Environment Clean
• Fatigue
• Republican Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney To Announce Running Mate Paul Ryan
• Jamaica's Usain Bolt Wins 200m And Makes Olympic Athletics History
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: The Jasmine Alert - The Smart Girl And The Not So Smart Woman
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Public Notices

The August 19th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Fourteen Brawling Boys Criminally Charged
• Clerk Charged For Stealing Police Pay
• We Have Come A Long Ways
• Guat Gold Diggers Destroying Ceibo Chico
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 26th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Empty Handed Burglar Caught In The Act
• Another Empty Handed Accused Burglar Charged
• High School Teacher Charged For Assaulting Girls
• Belize National Classification System For Hotels And Tour Operators
• This Empty Handed Burglar Goes To Jail
• Rotary's Gift Of Life Belize Project
• Teen Depression: A Guide for Parents And Teachers
• Art In The Park of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
• Female Facing Burglary Charge
• Four New Motorcycles For The Police
• Guatemala Ex-Police Chief Jailed For Civil War Kidnap
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 2nd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• The Court Dismiss - The Prosecution Insist
• Novelo Finaly Charged
• Marcia Moody Is The New Queen Of The West
• BWSL Records Another Successful Year
• Galen Awards Scholarships
• How To Be A Good Student
• Government Upgrading More Streets Benque, San Ignacio & Punta Gorda
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 9th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three Remanded For Jacking Chinese Store
• BNECT Donates Household Items To San Ignacio Police
• Gabourel Remanded For Robbery & Grevious Harm
• Harvest For Kids: Planting Seeds Of Hope
• The Cayo (Police) District Is Without A Commanding Officer
• Horticulture Training Courses
• The Goverment Must Educate Our People On The Guatemala Issue
• The Youngest Son Takes The Rap
• Musa Complains, Haynes Explains
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 16th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• One Shot To The Head Ends The Life Of Harth Gillett Sr
• Bateman In The Slammer Again
• Ralph Moody Is The New Sheriff In Town
• Give Me A Chance To Try It
• LOST LAND/LEASE CERTIFICATES
• Old Beef Land Rodel Guerra In Jail Again
• Guatemala Fuego Volcano Eruption Triggers Evacuation
• Full Basket Belize Now Accepting Applications for 2013 Community Grants
• Presidential Elections Are Won By Electoral College Votes And Not Polls - President Obama Only Needs 33 Colleges
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 23rd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Hillview Burglar Gets Maximum Sentence
• Miss New York Queen of the Bay Krystal Gutierrez On Official Visit
• Accused Drug Traffickers Jailed
• FFB Elects Ethics Committee
• Patriotism
• Happy Independence Day 2012 Wishes from Many!
• Terrorist Granted Citizenship In Foreign Lands
• Here Is Your Open Invitation To Participate In the Cayo Art Exhibit
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 30th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Martinez For Drug Trafficking
• Martinez For Crashing A Government Vehicle
• Preparing The Nation And People In The Era Of Science and Technology: The Ministry of ESTPU Launches its Strategic Plan 2012 - 2017
• What Are We Going To Do About Belize's Foreign Debt?
• Thirty Days In Prison For Disobeying The Court
• Gongora Gone For Eight Weeks
• Everything You Should Know About Pertussis "Whooping Cough"
• Recognizing AndTreating A Stroke
• Suspected Whooping Cough In Cayo
• San Ignacio Community Hospitals Holds Prayer Service
• U.S Embassy Notice
• Belize Celebrates Caribbean Wellness Day
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 7th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Rest In Peace Suzenne - RIP
• Land Feud Lands Landero Brothers In Jail
• Machete Man Found Chopped To Death
• Ministry of Health Attends PAHO Conference
• World Suicide Prevention Day
• Ministry Conducts Flu Surveillance Training
• Caribbean Wellness Day
• Lemon Kills Cancer Cells
• Selecting Players For Belize's National Football Team
• Tropic Air Announces Service To San Ignacio & Benque
• BTB Welcomes New Director Of Quality Assurance
• UNIVERSITY OF BELIZE: Message from the President - Tribute to Murdered Students
• 20th Annual World Mental Health Day Global Awareness Campaign To Highlight Need For More Attention To Depression, A Growing International Crisis
• Will Chavez Get A 4th Term In Venuzuela?
• Guatemalan Detained For Illegal Logging From Front Page without
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 14th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Cayo Demonstrates Peacefully, Government Responds Positively
• Bail Denial For Repeat Offenders Is Nothing New In San Igancio
• Santa Elena Businessman Robbed And Shot
• Credit Unions: Founded on Community Service
• The First Lady of Belize's Cancer struggle featured in American Way Magazine
• "The war on crime will not slacken" Prime Minister Dean Barrow
• Hugo Ch�vez Wins 4th Term As President of Venuzuela
• Message From The University Of Belize
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 21st, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Brave Policeman Cracks Crime Ring: The heroic actions of a senior police officer resulted in the onsite apprehension of at least one person, from a team, long suspected of involvement in a string of robberies within the community. It was shortly after 10 o'clock on the night of Friday October 12, 2012, when Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Amin "Sheriff" August was recreating with friends at a bar in his home village of Esperanza when three armed robbers stormed into the bar with intent to pull off a robbery.
• Trapp Gets Five Years For Burglary: Convicted burglar Harvey Trapp Jr. was today sentenced to five years in jail after he was found guilty of burglarizing the home of Ramon "Monchies" Vargas in March 2012. Six and a half months ago, on March 31, Belizean teacher, Ramon Vargas, 43, reported that his house, located in the Hillview area of Santa Elena Town, was burglarized and that the thief made off with over 11 thousand dollars in electronic items, jewellery and cash. In the report to the police Vargas informed that he secured and left his house at around 6 o'clock that Saturday morning and proceeded to the market in San Ignacio to conduct his trading business
• People on the Move for Justice: BY: Rolando Cocom Since the recent murders in the Twin Towns, people in the Cayo District have become increasingly vocal about their concerns to reduce, and if possible end, the hideous crimes afflicting our society. I extend my sincerest sympathies to all Belizeans who have had to experience criminal activity, especially to the families who have lost their loved ones, particularly the Martinez and Lowe families. No number of demonstrations, no whipping of criminals, no person hanged, will ever be able to heal the void left in the lives of those who have lost loved ones.
• REACTION TO GUATEMALAN WHO WAS SHOT, BY Wellington C. Ramos: If it is true that our Government is planning to compensate the family of the Guatemalan citizen who unlawfully entered our country to extract our natural resources, I am totally against such proposition. According to the information that was in the press, not only did he try to come into the country but he was also armed with a weapon to try and shoot one of our BDF soldiers. As a former member of the Belize Police Force and the United States Army, if I was in that soldier's position I would have acted the same way without any reservation or hesitation.
• Increasing The Nation's Forensic Capability: Minister John Saldivar's speech: "I feel extremely privileged to have been afforded this opportunity of addressing this most captive audience - and one capable of influencing positive change in our fight against crime and violence here in Belize; I am encouraged by your presence here this morning; this certainly gives me the assurance that as stakeholders we are all committed to create a safe and secure environment where our citizens and visitors can live in peace with itself. I wish to welcome the Hon. Minister and her team to Belize. My understanding is that the programme of events included a fly over in a helicopter along the Belize/Guatemala border accompanied by the Vice Minister of Guatemala and CEO in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• October 19, 2012 "The Cayo and Benque Viejo" Celebrating 108 Years of Townships:
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 28th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Williams Facing Burglary Charge: The good news coming out of western Belize this week, is that San Ignacio police is reporting no major criminal activity in the community. The only reported incident this week is one that took place a week ago in Bullet Tree Falls Village in which a Belizean businesswoman reported being held captive in her house, for almost 40 hours, by her common- law-husband whom she has known for less than four months.
• BWS Team Visits Work Site In Belize City: As the tremendous amount of civil works continues in Belize City, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL), Alberto August, accompanied by the company's Chief Executive Officer, Alvan Haynes and members of the Technical Services Department, today visited the BWS work site on Freetown Road where the Chairman was afforded the opportunity to personally appreciate the magnitude of works currently underway.
• Riding Across Belize For A Worthwhile Cause: The Belize Social Security Board's 9th Annual Ride Across Belize cycling event, with about one hundred riders, got off to a good start as scheduled at 7:00 am on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 from in front of the Social Security office in Corozal Town. The first leg of the four-day event ended in front of the Social Security branch office on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City. The cyclists departed Belize City at 7:00 am on Thursday, October 25, for the 68 mile ride to the Social Security branch office at the corner of Liberty Street and the George Price Highway in Santa Elena, Cayo.
• Shock As Brazilian Man Turns Up At Own Wake: A Brazilian man gave his relatives the shock of their lives when he turned up at his own wake at his mother's home. The family was gathered around a coffin thought to contain 41-year-old car washer Gilberto Araujo when he appeared, causing some people to faint and others to flee in fear. The dead man, said to closely resemble Gilberto, is believed to be another car washer who was murdered at the weekend. Gilberto's brother said he had wrongly identified him in the mortuary.
• Oldest Mayan Tomb Found In Guatemala's Retalhuleu: One of the oldest Mayan tombs ever found has been uncovered in western Guatemala, say archaeologists. Located at a temple site in Retalhuleu province, the grave is thought to be that of an ancient ruler or religious leader who lived some 2,000 years ago. Carbon-dating indicated the tomb had been built between 700 and 400 BC, said government archaeologist Miguel Orrego. A rich array of jade jewels, including a necklace depicting a vulture-headed human figure, were found. The scientists found no bones at the tomb in the Tak'alik Ab'aj site - some 180km (110 miles) south of Guatemala City - probably because they had disintegrated.
• Mexico Exhumes Relative of Drug Lord For DNA Test: Mexican authorities exhumed a relative of drug kingpin Heriberto Lazcano on Monday and took DNA samples from the corpse to remove any doubt they had killed the Zetas leader. Lazcano, one of Mexico's most wanted men, is believed to have been killed at a baseball field in the northern state of Coahuila on October 7, but the cartel leader's body was stolen from a funeral home by gunmen hours later.
• World Wants Obama Re-Elected AGAIN: BBC Survey: The United States president might be locked in a neck and neck battle at home with his challenger Mitt Romney, but across the world, including in India, people still overwhelmingly want to see Barack Obama re-elected. According to an international survey by BBC World Service, Obama is preferred to Romney in 20 of the 21 countries with Pakistan the only country where more people favoured the Republican for an election.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The November 4th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Cracking Down On Repeat Offenders: A San Ignacio man with prior burglary charges, aka "repeat offender" was today remanded to prison as he stands accused of brutally beating a Santa Elena man while burglarizing the man's house. San Ignacio police reports that on Sunday, October 28, 2012, Moises Flores, 27, Belizean laborer of a Collins Boulevard address in San Ignacio reported that he was at home in bed at around 4:30 pm on the day in question when Anthony Moody, with a piece of cement block in his hand, stormed into his room and stoned him with the cement hitting him to the left side of the face.
• A Second Repeat Offender: A second repeat offender brought before the court this week is remanded to jail. On Tuesday, October 23, 2012, at about 10:30 am, Rolando Gonzalez, Belizean businessman of Unitedville Village visited the police station in Georgeville where he reported that his business place, R.G Home Builders located in his home village was burglarized. Gonzalez told the police that the thief made off with his grey and black Acer brand lap top computer valued at $1,200.
• Disappointed by BEL's Actions: Many are the persons lining up at the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) office in San Ignacio all victims of what BEL calls a re-evaluation exercise. In my case, I received an October 5, letter from one Sherman S. Ferguson, BELCustomer Care Supervisor, informing of my "account not being billed the total monthly consumption for period January 7, 2011 to October 5, 2011. Therefore, your account has now been billed $1,284.40 for this period." For BEL and probably even for Mr. Ferguson, $1,200 might seem like a small amount but for us poor people, this is a lot of money. I have, for all these months been paying my electricity bill in accordance with the numbers recorded by the BEL meter attached to my house.
• Minister Montero and BWS Team Visit Work Site In Santa Elena: Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Rene Montero and Belize Water Services Limited officials today visited the work site of the Santa Elena/San Ignacio Bypass Project. The BWS team included Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alberto August; Chief Executive Officer, Alvan Haynes and Technical Services Manager, Keith Hardwick. The first phase of the project, with an estimated cost of over five million dollars, is being executed by CISCO Construction Company. It includes the construction of a round-about at the junction of George Price Highway and La Loma Luz Boulevard along with the construction of the carriageway encompassing almost all of that section on the Santa Elena side of the new bridge
• BDF Soldier Remanded: A Belize Defense Force soldier accused of behaving badly against the estranged wife was remanded to prison for over a month It was around mid-day on Sunday, October 28, 2012, when Joanna Pineda, 38, Belizean domestic residing in Santa Familia village visited the station in San Ignacio where she filed a formal report against the ex-husband, BDF soldier, Luis Pineda, 42, residing in Central Farm home of the BDF Camp Beilzario. The wife told the police that she has been separated from the soldier for over a year and that on the day in question he entered her house as a trespasser and threatened to kill her. She told the police that whilst inside her house the soldier snatched a picture frame from the wall, slammed it on the ground, picked up a piece of the shattered glass with which he inflicted several cut wounds to her left arm.
• Argentina Voting Age Lowered From 18 To 16: Argentina's Congress has approved a law to lower the voting age to 16, in a move that will take effect for key mid-term elections next year. President Cristina Fernandez has courted the youth vote and critics say the change is designed to boost her party's chances in the 2013 polls. Supporters of the move say it will widen political participation. Voting is obligatory in Argentina for people aged 18 to 70, but will be optional for those aged 16 and 17. The long and bitter session saw deputies trade accusations and most of the opposition walk out before the measure was put to the vote.
• Cristo Rey Villages Captures Burglar Suspect: Continuing with the Cayo spirit to return peace and safety of the residents of the Cayo and Belize.... On Wednesday, October 31, 2012, the residents of Cristo Rey Village came out in force when a burglary suspect was recognized as a suspect in the theft of a bicycle and a bicycle pump the day before and was also thought to be a burglar from Bullet Tree. This man made a mistake for himself by returning to the scene of the crime. The villagers networked by cell phone and set out on foot and in vehicles, including a motor cycle, to search for and capture the suspect. Herman Tut helped to coordinate the search effort. Neighborhood Watch officers notified other Cristo Rey residents to be on the alert for any suspicious person(s). The suspected thief must have sensed that a search for him was going on and attempted the flee the village by cab or foot before he was apprehended by the brave Cristo Rey Village search party.
• Response to Belize Citrus Mutual: We reproduce below the requests the membership of CGA requested of the Government of Belize. These requests will benefit all growers including those of the Belize Citrus Mutual. We await Government's response to our request namely to: - Issue a public statement after Tuesday's Cabinet meeting explaining government's position on the Alan Slusher email and clarifying once and for all government's policy and intention regarding the Citrus Growers Association, the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association, the Banana Growers Association, the Rice Growers Association and by extension any such Association like these that exist in our laws. - Until it is amended, ensure that the Citrus Processing and Production Act is adhered to so as to allow for the smooth operation of the industry.
• St. Ignatius High School Proudly Represented Cayo In TIDE Festival: On Tuesday, October 13, 2012, St. Ignatius High School Participated in the Youth Conservation Competition hosted by TOLEDO INSTITUTE FOR DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENT (TIDE) at the Fr. Ring Parish Hall in Punta Gorda Town, Toledo. Under the theme " The Value of Belize Barrier Reef." 17 year old Annayelli Marin was the 4th year student who participated in the competition walking away as the second place winner. We were the only out district school and with just merely a week and a half before the competition. Food and Nutrition Teacher Ms. Flora Pereira received the information about the competition, she quickly identified one of the most talented fourth year students at the St. Ignatius Annayelli Marin and encouraged her to participate.
• Prime Minister Dean Barrow's Address Business Forum "Partnering for Growth": Mr. Master of Ceremonies, Rev David Golf, Distinguished Members of the Business Community, Ministers of Government and Members of Cabinet, Chief Executive Officers and other Members of the Public Service Other Invited Guests, Representatives of the Media, Ladies and Gentlemen It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to this the second Business Forum, the purpose of which is to provide an opportunity for Government and the Private Business Sector in Belize to continue the open dialogue on ways to expand incomes, jobs and the level of business and economic activity generally. All this, of course, with a view to accelerate the social and economic development of our country, and to improve the quality of life of every resident of Belize. There have been changes since we met here last year, some clearly positive, others clearly undesirable.
• Cuba Leader Raul Castro Says Cuba 'hard hit' by Sandy: Eleven people died and more than 188,000 homes were damaged as the storm passed over Cuba last week. President Raul Castro said Cuba's second largest city, Santiago, looked like it had been bombed. He urged those affected not to lose hope and said that no one would be left destitute, but that the government would have to weigh up each case. "We'll get over this, you're fighting people, we've known that for more than fifty years," he told residents of Santiago on a tour of the worst affected areas. "The reality is much worse than what you can see in the pictures or on TV," President Castro said.
• Back By Popular Demand "Teen Depression", A Guide for Parents And Teachers: Teenage depression isn't just bad moods and occasional melancholy- it's a serious problem that impacts every aspect of a teen's life. Teen depression can lead to problems at home and school, drug abuse, self-loathing-even violence or suicide. But as a concerned parent, teacher, or friend, there are many ways you can help. Talking about the problem and offering support can go a long way toward getting your teenager back on track. Understanding ForTeens If you're a teenager struggling with depression or you'd like to learn how to help a depressed friend. There are as many misconceptions about teen depression as there are about teenagers in general. Yes, the teen years are tough, but most teens balance the requisite angst with good friendships, success in school or outside activities, and the development of a strong sense of self.
• Guatemala Indigenous Leader 'Escapes Street Attack': An indigenous leader in Guatemala who is an outspoken critic of the government says he has escaped an attempted shooting. Mario Itzep of the National Indigenous Observatory said two men on a motorbike opened fire on him in Guatemala City. He said he had recently received anonymous telephone calls telling him that unless he stopped bothering the government he would regret it. Itzep said he was not injured in the incident.
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The November 11th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Two Burglaries- Cruz Castillo Jailed:
  Good investigative work on the part of officers attached to the Crimes Investigations Branch at the San Ignacio police station has resulted in the recovery of several stolen items and the arrest and incarceration of a man who pled guilty as charged. Police investigation this week resulted in the recovery of several reported stolen items in two recent separate burglary cases.
• "SteelBob" Remanded:
  As reports of arrest on burglary charges continue, San Ignacio police reports the arrest of a reputed burglar from Ontario Village who stands accused of burglarizing the home of a Santa Elena woman. Acting upon information received, on Thursday, October 25, 2012, San Ignacio police visited the Hillview Area, Santa Elena Town, home of Shasha Aguilar who reported to the police that her house was burglarized by two male persons.
• Cristo Rey Boys Jailed:
  Two boys from Cristo Rey Village, Cayo, could very well spend Christmas and New Years in jail on remand on an aggravated burglary charge. Gary Tullock, 66, retired US National, residing at Hill Bank Farm in Cristo Rey Village reported to San Ignacio police that at about 7:30 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012, two armed, masked male persons entered his house, through a back door, held him up and demanded money.
• Awaiting Instructions from the DPP for Fifty Cents:
  San Ignacio police is tonight holding onto the notorious Mark Anthony "Fifty Cents" Conorque, the third individual wanted in connection with the October 12 attempt murder of Assistant Superintendent of Police, Amin "Sheriff" August, which occurred in the policeman home village, Esperanza, Cayo. The police reports that Fifty Cents was arrested earlier this week by Orange Walk police on a robbery and firearm charge. He was allegedly taken to court in that northern municipality and was remanded to prison.
• Belize Host Twelfth PANCAP AGM:
  Belize hosted the Twelfth Annual General Meeting of the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) from the 24-26 October 2012 at the Biltmore Plaza in Belize City under the theme, "PANCAP Forging New Paths." An Official Opening was held to welcome the visiting delegates on the evening of Wednesday, October 24th, 2012 at the Old Belize. Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin presented brief remarks where he highlighted the present situation of HIV and AIDS in Belize and the progress that has been made by the Government of Belize and its various partners. Minister Marin also underscored the importance of sustainability of the partnership and commitment to 'Forge new paths' among its members.
• NDACC Highlights Drug Week In Dangriga:
  The National Drug Abuse and Control Council (NDACC) in partnership with the Dangriga Town Council planned a week of events to observe Drug Week from 22-25 October, 2012. NDACC visited with various primary and secondary schools in Dangriga town where they conducted educational sessions on the harmful effects of drug abuse. The highlight of the week was a poster competition and a walkathon. Delille Academy came out victorious in the poster competition taking away all top three prizes with their depiction of a Drug Free Community through colorful artwork.
• World Mental Health Day 2012:
  The Ministry of Health celebrated World Mental Health Day under the theme, "Depression: A Global Crisis" on October 10th with an official ceremony at the BTL Park in Belize City. During the short ceremony, opening remarks were done by Dr. Claudina Cayetano, Psychiatrist of the Mental Health Program and contributing remarks by Dr. Gerardo De Cosio of PAHO Belize.
• Support The Kontiki Neighborhood Association Attend The Family Fun Day This Sunday:
  Like other parts of the community, the Kontiki Area of San Ignacio Town has had its share of crime the most prevelant of which is burglary. The community has been organizing itself to tackle the crime situation in their neighborhood. For this purpose the community has formed the "Kontiki Neighbourhood Watch Association".
• Crime Control Council Concurs with New Crime Measure:
  The Crime Control Council met today in Belize City and, after intense discussion, has given its concurrence with the Minister of National Security's decision to declare 'special areas' in accordance with Section 12(1) of the Crime Control and Criminal Justice Act. The meeting was attended by all members of the Crime Control Council as listed or appointed under Section 25(1) of the Act, except for a Justice of the Supreme Court and a Representative from the Ministry of Human Development. Members present included the Chairman of the Crime Control Council, a representative of the Opposition, the CEO from the Ministry of National Security, the Commissioner of Police, The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), The Chief Magistrate, representatives from the Solicitor General's Office, The Council of Churches, the Bar Association, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) and the Women's Issues Network of Belize (WIN Belize)
• Haiti Appeals For International Help After Storm:
  The Haitian government has renewed calls for international emergency aid to help the country deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. There are fears of food shortages after the hurricane, which hit on 24 October, damaged many crops in southern Haiti. Aid workers and officials are also on alert for an increase in cholera cases in the wake of widespread flooding. More than 50 people were killed in Haiti, which is still struggling to recover from the 2010 earthquake.
• 7.4 Earthquake Rocks Guatemala:
  A 7.4-magnitude earthquake has struck off Guatemala's Pacific coast, reportedly killing at least eight. Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina declared a national alert and advised people in affected areas to evacuate tall buildings as a precaution. Officials said roads had been buried in landslides, and it would take 24 hours to fully restore links to the region. Frightened people fled from offices and homes around the region, as buildings shook from Mexico City to San Salvador.
• Barack Obama Re-elected:
  President Barack Obama has been re-elected to a second term, defeating Republican challenger Mitt Romney. America's first black president secured more than the 270 votes in the electoral college needed to win. In his victory speech before supporters in Chicago, Mr. Obama said he would talk to Mr. Romney about "where we can work together to move this country forward". Mr Obama prevailed despite lingering dissatisfaction with the economy and a hard-fought challenge by Mr. Romney.
• Puerto Rico Wants To Become The 51st State Of The US:
  Voters in Puerto Rico have supported a non-binding referendum to become a full US state. The measure will require approval from the US Congress, but President Barack Obama has said he will respect the vote. The island is currently a US territory, which uses the dollar and whose citizens travel on US passports. But it does not return senators to the US Congress and is represented in Washington by a non-voting delegate.
• Velasquez Accused of Betraying Trust:
  A tour guide from the village of Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo was today remanded to the central prison in Hattieville as he stands accused of burglarizing a house, under his care, in his home village. San Ignacio police reports that on Tuesday, October 30, 2012, Skip Billings, 60, retired US police officer presently residing on Bishop Desmond Street in San Ignacio town reported material day, when he visited the home of Connie Stafford, left in the care of Martin Velasquez, situated in Bullet Tree Falls he found that the house was burglarized. Billings reported to police that the stolen items included a gold necklace and gold nugget both valued at $3,000 along with a Dewalt brand vacuum cleaner valued at $250.
• John alexander Watler has Dont It Again!:
  The great Belizean writer and story teller, John Alexander Watler has done it again with his latest novel, The Bomba Codex. In this, his latest masterpiece, Watler weaves an intriguing plot and in so doing he holds the reader's attention as he connects the pieces of the puzzle spanning the jungle of central Belize to the metropolitan streets and high life in America returning to offshore destinations in Belize where it all comes to a head. His accounts of the events seem real as Watler merges the characters and their activities with the illegal trading in drugs and Mayan artifacts spanning locations known to the Belizean reader. The writer's skill makes this reader frequently stop and wonder: "Is this a real life experience of the writer?"
• Hundreds Of Rescuers Search Wreck In Guatemala For Earthquake Survivors:
  Hundreds of rescuers are sifting debris of wrecked towns for survivors of Wednesday's earthquake in Guatemala. The 7.4-magnitude tremor, the most powerful to hit Guatemala since 1976, left at least 52 people dead, many more injured and thousands without power. President Otto Perez Molina told the BBC that 22 people were still missing and as many as 10,000 houses may have been rendered uninhabitable. Most of the damage was in San Marcos region, near the border with Mexico.
• Coming Soon - Santiago Castillo Store:
  A new "superstore", in the true sense of the word, is coming soon to the west. The building, being the home of the latest addition to the Santiago Castillo chain, is rapidly nearing completion on Eve Street in Santa Elena Town. While we are yet to interview the mastermind behind this latest accomplishment, Hon. Santino Castillo, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development, we venture to predict, by its well known reputation, that the store is bringing new hope to the people of San Ignacio, Santa Elena and surrounding communities.
• PM Dean Barrow In Honduras:
  Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. Dean Barrow arrived today inTegucigalpa accompanied by his wife, Kim Simpliss Barrow and an accompanying delegation in order to hold talks about various bilateral topics and sign three agreements in the areas of tourism, health and cooperation. Prime Minister Barrow was received at the Hernán Acosta Mejia Air Base, by the Presidential Designate Victor Hugo Barnica and the Vice Chancellor Mireya Aguero de Corrales, where he addressed the press to express a few words of thanks for the reception; "Its a great pleasure to be in Honduras in order to forge and further strenghten our friendship, ties that have traditionally existed between our two countries. In Belize we have Honduran residents and we gladly welcome them to our country."
• Health Tips For Cold And Flu Season:
  10 natural ways to ease the common cold: Unfortunately, there is very little you can do to fight the common cold. We have no way to attack the virus itself. When we get a cold, all we can really do is make ourselves a little more comfortable. These tips won't cure the common cold. But they might make you or a loved one feel just a little better while you recover.
• Belize Water Services Advisory:
  Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) has been made aware of the company's name having been used to commit fraud at a business in Spanish Lookout over the weekend. This business was given a fake cheque as payment for materials supposedly ordered by BWS, with the preliminary communication having been done by e-mail using a made-up g-mail account. Businesses are advised to be on the lookout for such scams.
• Upgrading Land Management System:
  The Government of Belize signed a loan agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) on November 16, 2009, in the amount of US$2,500,000 to finance the execution of the Land Management Program Phase III (LMP III). The Project is for a period of three (3) years and is in its final stage of development. The objective of this Program is to consolidate and expand land management services country-wide, to improve quality, efficiency and access to all Belizeans. The LMP III consists of three components: (1) Expansion of the Parcel-Based Land Information System; (2) Improvement of Urban Land Information; and (3) Support for the Provision of Modem Land Management Services.
• Another Baptist Pastor Child Sex Scandal:
  The "local Baptist Church in your area" as it is referred to by Dr. Bob Roberts, has not yet recovered from the mid August, Pastor Norman Willacey, underage sex scandal, when up comes another allegation of sexual impropriety against another pastor from another local Baptist Church. The report coming out of Belmopan police informs that shortly before noon on Monday, November 5, an 11 year girl, accompanied by her mother, visited the police station and reported that Julio Cesar Garcia, pastor of the Frank's Eddy Baptist Church is alleged to have had sexual contact with the child, not once but twice.
• Future Entrepreneurs To Display Marketing Skills At Marketing Expo:
  Students of the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences Marketing Class of the University of Belize will display their marketing and creativity skills at the University of Belize Annual "Marketing Exposition" from 9am-3pm on Tuesday November 13, 2012 at the Princess Hotel and Casino, Belize City. This year's exposition is envisioned to be more challenging and exciting with the University's emerging entrepreneurs competing with established entrepreneurs for the best booth presentation, building brand awareness, promotional strategy techniques and building customer relationships.
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The November 18th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Grandson Lands Grandma In Police Cell:
  The information from an alert victim of burglary, led San Ignacio Police Crimes Investigation Branch personnel to solving another burglary case in which a gun was stolen as well as the discovery of a little bit of marijuana for bonus. The case against Danny Sagastume, 19, Belizean labourer of a Santiago Juan Layout area in San Ignacio, and a rather frightening incarceration experience for his 67 year old grandmother, began on Tuesday, November 6, when Adolfo Ventura, 47, Guatemalan, taxi driver from the neighbouring Bullet Tree Falls Village reported to San Ignacio Police that his house was burglarized.
• Major Road Upgrades In The Twin Towns:
  Not to be left behind other municipalities especially Belize City, the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena are in for major street improvements. The paving of Church Street, Eve Street, Victoria Street and a portion of the Bullet Tree Road all in San Ignacio Town began today. Mayor John August informed that the project, at a cost of over one million dollars will also include the paving of 18th Street and West Street in San Ignacio as well as Eden Drive in Santa Elena. The major upgrading of streets in Santa Elena and San Ignacio, along with the soon to be completed Welcome Centre, is being funded by the Government of Belize via a loan facility with the World Bank under a Municipal Development Project.
• Marlon Kuylen Heads Football Coaches Education Committee:
  As the effort continues to move football to a higher level in Belize, the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) is embarking on a countrywide training program of coaches. The FFB informs that in order to have beginners trained in line with the Federation's quest to have all coaches certified to participate in tournament organized by the FFB and its affiliates. For this purpose, a Coaches Education Committee was recently formed. The committee is headed by FFB's Executive Member Marlon Kuylen. Assisting Kuylen will be the National "A" team coach Le Roy Sherrier as well the Technical Director/Assistant National "A" team coach Renan Couoh, Goalkeeper coaches Charlie Slusher and Kent Gabourel and Physical Trainer Stanley Humes.
• Software Pioneer John McAfee Denies Murder In Belize:
  The founder of the anti-virus software firm McAfee has denied murdering one of his neighbours in San Pedro. John McAfee said he did not kill fellow American Gregory Faull, who was found shot dead on Sunday on Ambergris Caye island, just off the coast of Belize, where both men lived. Police say he is a "person of interest" in their inquiries into Mr Faull's murder. Mr McAfee says he is hiding from police out of fear they want to kill him. He was detained earlier this year over the alleged possession of guns and drugs, but was released without charge.
• What is Garifuna Settlement Day?:
  On November 19th the celebrations commence to mark the arrival of the first Garifuna to Belize in 1832. The festival marks the arrival of the Garifuna people to Dangriga. A mixture of African music and religion with native Carib language and traditions blends into a vibrant, tasty, stimulating experience. Garifuna Settlement Day, is celebrated throughout the country, but especially in Dangriga, the cultural capital of Belize. There is traditional Garifuna and Belizean food, live punta music, games and Jonkunu dancers. In addition they reenact 'The Landing.'
• Colombian Police Arrests Three For killing 10 Farm workers:
  Colombian security forces have arrested three men they suspect of shooting dead 10 farm workers last week. The killing was one of the deadliest targeted attacks in Colombia in years. Police say the suspects belong to a criminal gang whose leader was arrested last month and who ordered the attack from behind bars. They said the motive could be revenge for his recent capture or a deadly message to businessmen who have refused to pay the gang protection money.
• UN: Haiti Faces 2013 Food Shortage After Hurricane Sandy:
  The UN in Haiti says 1.5 million people remain at risk of not having proper access to food in 2013 due to the destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy and other natural disasters. The situation has been made worse by a drought earlier this year, it says. At least 54 people died as Hurricane Sandy hit the impoverished Caribbean nation two weeks ago. The country is still struggling to recover from a devastating earthquake in January 2010. During the spring and summer of this year, rural households in northern parts of Haiti were badly hit by drought.
• Jamaica Bans Preaching On Commuter Buses:
  have banned lay preachers from addressing commuters in public buses. Jamaica is a predominantly Christian country, but many passengers have complained about the noise and disturbance. Drivers have been instructed to politely warn religious ministers that they are no longer allowed to evangelise fellow passengers. Preachers say the decision infringes freedom of speech and religion. "I am all for evangelising, but they cannot use the bus as their platform," Hardley Lewin, managing director of the Jamaica Transit Company Limited said.
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The November 25th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Alleged Petty Con Artist Nabbed:
  The act of con artists preying on vulnerable teachers in Belize City schools seems to have caught on in Cayo schools as one such alleged con artist was today arrested, charged and remanded to prison. In the first case, a primary school female teacher reported to the police that she was at school where she was approached by a man she knows as Ellis Gomez who told her that he was sent to do some repair work at the school. He requested and received 30 dollars from the teacher to buy a tin of paint. He allegedly returned the following day and approached the same teacher who, at his request, gave him an additional 10 dollars which he said he needed to purchase formica. The man never returned with paint or the formica thereby prompting the teacher to report the matter to the police.
• Men At Work In Cayo Central:
  Holding true to his promise of increased employment within the community, Minister of Works and Transport/Cayo Central Area Representative, Hon. Rene Montero, is pushing forward with the manual labor intensive component San Ignacio bypass Project. Minister Montero informed that he is pleased with the progress of the works and the quality of the workmanship. He informed that apart from the massive development that the project is bringing to the area, he is especially pleased to see so many workmen on the site gainfully employed and therefore providing themselves and their families.
• Statements From The Most Recent IMF Report On Belize:
  An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission led by Mr. Gerardo Peraza, visited Belize from November 1-15 to conduct its yearly review of the country's economy, in the context of the IMF's Artivle IV consultations. Mr. Peraza released the following statement in Belmopan at the conclusion of the meeting today: "Belize is experiencing an output rebound despite the decline in oil production. In 2012, real Gross Domestice Product (GDP) growth is expected at 3.5-4 percent, led by a recovery from last year's effects of weatherrelated damages in commodity exports as well as a recovery in tourism, and electricity generation. Inflation which stood at 1.5 percent in January - August, has been easing as commodity prices pressures abate.
• Eradicating "Machismo":
  By: Pastor Scott Stirm If we look at the many problems facing our nation today, most all of them trace back to a leadership problem. John Maxwell says "Everything rises or falls upon the shoulders of leadership." No, I'm not complaining about our politicians, I'm talking about leadership as a whole, beginning with leadership in the home, our role as husbands & fathers. Did you know that 80% of the children born in the Caribbean are born outside of marriage? And HALF of that figure will NEVER KNOW WHO THEIR FATHER IS!!! In Jamaica, it's 90% of the kids born outside of marriage. And in Haiti, with rampant poverty & disorder, 94% of the children are born outside of marriage, and HALF of those children will never know who their father is. In the Caribbean region we have experienced a terrible breakdown of the family structure, and our crime & violence statistics are proof of that. Ranking up there with our Belize statistics are Jamaica and Trinidad - common denominator? Same culture, same problem�
• The Rotary Club of San Ignacio Starts Two Bathroom Projects For Cayo Schools:
  The Rotary Club of San Ignacio is proud to announce the start of two important projects to support the school infrastructure in Cayo. Within one week two ground-breaking ceremonies for new toilet facilities took place at Eden S.D.A. Primary School in Santa Elena and St. Andrews Anglican School in San Ignacio. They were well attended by all the kids, the staff, and representatives of the PTA and the Ministry of Education, the Town Council, the Rotary Club of San Ignacio, the building contractor and the press. Both school´s existing bathrooms have been outgrown over the years by the increasing number of students and need to be replaced. The schools will receive modern flush toilets in adequate numbers that are also accessible by wheelchairs. The building plans are based on a standard model that is recommended by the Ministry of Education which was also instrumental in selecting the schools. The buildings will even be equipped with fresh water storage tanks in case of interrupted public water supply.
• Medical Health Center Inaugurated In Belize City:
  The long time dream of former First Lady of Belize, Mrs. Kathy Esquivel, today became a reality with the official inauguration of a Mental Health Center in Belize City. The new facility that will provide a daily meal, medical referral and recreation for the homeless and people living with mental health problems was today inaugurated in Belize City. The Mental Health Day Care/ Resource Centre project, located at the corner of Tibruce and Vernon Streets, will facilitate social support and training for income generation for the homeless and people living with mental health problems in Belize City. The facility will not be a residential centre but will provide a daily meal, medical referral and recreation for its beneficiaries. The centre has the capacity to benefit 150 clients on a regular basis and will be governed by rules and regulations including no loitering and nuisance prohibitions.
• Ministry of Health Reveals Findings of "TLEMOL":
  Earlier this year, reports were made to the Ministry of Health concerning the sale of a pharmaceutical product being marketed as "TLEMOL." Shortly after receiving reports, the Ministry sent a sample of the product for testing. This week the Ministry received a Certificate of Analysis from the Caribbean Regional Drug Testing Laboratory in Kingston, Jamaica concluding that the pharmaceutical product marketed as 'Tlemol' has met the United States Pharmaceutical requirements for Acetaminophen tablets.
• International Call Center Brings Jobs To Town:
  The Office Gurus®, a global provider of call and contact center solutions, is preparing to open its doors in the town of San Ignacio in mid-November. Along with renovating the interior space of its #18 Joseph Andrews Drive, San Ignacio location, The Office Gurus is providing employment opportunities for both call center agents and management positions. With locations already in the U.S., El Salvador and Costa Rica, The Office Gurus have built their reputation on providing a quality work environment with fixed weekday hours, paid training, opportunity for advancement and other benefits. When asked why the firm selected Belize and specifically San Ignacio for its expansion, Dominic Leide, managing director of The Office Gurus stated, "When we toured the Cayo District we were impressed with the skill sets and level of enthusiasm available in the local labor pool. We pride ourselves on offering our employees a rewarding employment experience and a place to build a career, and felt that the people of San Ignacio would be a good fit for us and our clients." Leide added, "We look forward to welcoming all new hires and becoming an active contributor to the region's business community."
• Hector "Macho" Camacho 'Brain Dead' After Shooting:
  Rican former boxer Hector " Macho" Camacho has been declared clinically brain dead after being shot in the head on Tuesday. He was in a deep coma and unresponsive, the director of the hospital treating him, Dr Ernesto Torres, told reporters. Relatives are expected to decide whether to remove the three-time world champion from life support. Camacho suffered a heart attack after being wounded in a drive-by shooting outside the capital c ity, San Juan. "We have done all we can do," Dr Torres said, adding that brain studies had shown irregular and intermittent activity.
• Further Big Drop In New HIV Infections Among Children:
  The UN's latest assessment of global cases of HIV/Aids shows there has been a further drop in new infections among children. There were 330,000 new infections in children last year - the figure is 24% lower than in 2009. But the report by UNAids also warns "significant additional effort is required" if broader targets to tackle HIV/Aids are to be achieved by 2015. The agency's director said the pace of progress was speeding up. Overall, 34 million people around the world are now thought to have the virus that causes Aids. The number of new infections in adults has stayed broadly stable for the past four years - at about 2.5 million new cases a year.
• Argentina Governor's Wife Jailed For His Murder:
  The wife of murdered Argentine provincial governor Carlos Soria has been jailed for 18 years for killing him during a family argument. Susana Freydoz shot her husband as the two argued at their ranch in Rio Negro province, where they and their family had gathered for New Year celebrations. The judges ruled that she should remain in hospital where she is undergoing psychiatric treatment. Mr Soria had been sworn in a few weeks earlier as governor of Rio Negro. He was at his ranch in General Roca, in south-central Rio Negro province, celebrating New Year with his family.
• Top 5 Tips for Dealing with Bullying:
  So long playground teasing and taunting, bullying has entered cyberspace, ridiculing kids in the safety of their bedrooms and smartphones. Recently, it replaced stranger danger as parents' worst fear. Drs. Laurie and Fred Zelinger, a husband and wife team with more than 70 years of combined experience working in schools, to get their insight into how to communicate better with our children, whether they are being bullied or they are the bully. The Zelingers' Top 5 Tips for Dealing with Bullying in Your Family: 1. Sit side-by-side, and start with a statement. "There's been some research about how boys and men communicate better when they're sitting next to each other as opposed to sitting opposite each other," Dr. Laurie Zelinger points out. Try to find times when you are sitting close enough to your child without the pressure of time to get something done, and open up communication about bullying with a casual statement instead of a question; a statement feels less confrontational to the child. "Something simple, like, 'Wow, looks like you're really thinking about something right now", Dr. Laurie Zelinger says. You never know where it might lead.
• Gang Truce In El Salvador:
  In March this year El Salvador's most violent gangs - the Mara Salvatrucha and the 18th Street gang - agreed a truce. As a result, the murder rate of this small Central American country has plummeted - but can the peace last? On a Sunday morning, the main street into Majucla, a poor community in the north of San Salvador, looks like any other. It is a dirt road, there are food stalls, and people walk up and down, many dressed for church. Some men stand around in groups of two or three, chatting - look closely and you will see the tattoos. One of them has artwork that starts on his skull, covers his face and neck and disappears under his T-shirt. On one cheek a large M is tattooed, on the other an S. All these men are members of the Mara Salvatrucha gang, known as the MS.
• Instead of Celebrations, Cultural Preservation And Economic Development Is The Future For Our Garifuna People:
  I was born and raised in Dangriga Town like my mother, Josephine Sampson and my father Finley Sylvester Ramos. My maternal grandmother Andelecia Petillo- Sampson was born in Livingston, Guatemala and my maternal grandfather Simeon Sampson Sr. was born in Dangriga Town, Belize. My paternal grandmother Claudina Lewis-Ramos was born in Dangriga Town and my paternal grandfather Zacharus Ramos was born in Bluefield, Nicaragua. We all have relatives that we can trace to St. Vincent "Yuremei" our original homeland, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Belize.
• Cayo Art Festival 2012:
  The San Ignacio and Santa Elena House of Culture is pleased to once again invite you to theCayo Art Festival 2012 to be held this Saturday, November 24 on Burns Avenue in San Ignacio. We encourage you to bring your family and friends to enjoy an evening of fine Belizean art and talent. on display, games and live musical performances by A Cold Day in May, Johnny and the Playmates and Ascenthium. Visiting the Cayo Art Festival at the House of Culture in San Ignacio is a must if you're in San Ignacio this weekend.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: The Super-Bond, The IMF, The Future Looks Bright
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 3rd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Tut's Death Ruled As Suicide:
  The passing of Reyes Martin Tut from Cristo Rey Village, Cayo, has left the grieving family asking what on earth could have prompted him to end his life and to have done so in such a vicious manner. The blood stained grass and pieces of a broken soda bottle are all that remains on the scene where Reyes Martin Tut, 36, Belizean laborer of Cristo Rey Village made the ultimate decision to violently end his life. Acting upon information received at around 2:00 pm on Sunday, November 25, 2012, a team of policemen rushed to the Loma Luz Hospital in Santa Elena Town where they were directed to the lifeless body of a male person identified, by a member of the family, as Reyes Martin Tut. An inspection of the body revealed two cut wounds, one to the chin and the other a slash across the throat. The initial investigation revealed that the deceased began acting strangely during the early hours on Sunday morning. He reportedly told the family that there were bad spirits in his room and that the devil was pinching him.
• Boyfriend Escapes - Girlfriend Remanded:
  A young woman was today remanded to prison, after she was found in proximity with a stash of weed, while the boyfriend ran off before the police could lay hands on him. San Ignacio police informed that, armed with a warrant, at around 5:30 on the morning of Sunday, November 25, they visited the residence of Luis Flores, located between miles 68 and 69 on the George Price Highway, to conduct a search for marijuana. Just as the team of policemen were approaching the residence, they reportedly saw Flores as he ran behind the house disappearing into nearby bushes. A policeman's knock on the main entrance door to the house was reportedly answered by a female who told the police that she was Flores' girlfriend, Nancy Henry. Although not needed in the search of marijuana, the police nonetheless proceeded to read to her the search warrant. She offered no resistance to the search at the end of which nothing incriminating was found.
• Bedran's Building Burglarized:
  San Ignacio police are investigating the theft of various power tools from a house, under construction, in Santa Elena, Cayo. In a statement to the police, San Ignacio businessman Cesar Bedran informed that on Sunday, November 25, 2012, he arrived at his house, under construction, located in Eden Drive in Santa Elena Town, and observed that a window was damaged. Upon checking inside the building, Bedran discovered that the house was indeed burglarized and that the following items were missing: An orange Sthill weed eater valued at $1,200, a red Millweik skill saw and a drill of the same color and brand valued at $750 each, all for a total value of $2,700.
• Bringing Smiles To Arenal Children:
  Bearing Christmas gifts for less privileged children attending La Inmaculada Roman Catholic Primary School, a group of third form students from St. Ignatius High school in Santa Elena boarded a bus this Wednesday afternoon for the ride to Arenal Village on the western border with Guatemala near Benque Veijo Town. The aim of involving these third form students in community service activities is to ensure they develop new relationships, gain important experiences from helping others and draw upon or discover unused talents which they may not even realize they had. Due to the importance and many benefits of the community service projects being undertaken by the school, the faculty at St. Ignatius High School requires that their students actively participate in the community service program as part of the graduation requirement. In this year's community service program, students from third form were engaged in a massive toy and gift drive. The community service committee had seen the need to reach out to a school that is in much need of help in the Cayo District. As such La Inmaculada R.C School in Arenal was chosen to be the first recipients of the much deserved gifts from the students of St. Ignatius High School.
• Mexican President-Elect Pena Nieto Meets Obama:
  The Mexican president-elect, Enrique Pena Nieto, has told US President Barack Obama during talks at the White House that his main goal on taking office will be reducing violence. Mr Pena Nieto, who takes office on Saturday, is expected to revise Mexico's war on the drug cartels. It has cost more than 50,000 lives since it was launched six years ago. President Obama complimented Mr Pena Nieto on what he described as an "ambitious reform agenda". "What happens in Mexico has an impact on our society," he told Mr Pena Nieto. He said he expected to build on the good relationship he had with outgoing President Felipe Calderon. Mr Obama, who will be represented by Vice-President Joe Biden at the inauguration ceremony in Mexico City, joked and said he was "jealous".
• Teach Your Children About The Gift Of Giving:
  with rewards and skills that will last long after the holiday season has faded. Here's how. We all know that kids love getting presents at the holidays, but what truly makes the season special is the genuine sense of goodwill all around them. That's why now is the best time to show a child how to spread that warmth by helping others. Yes, it's great for the needy, but it's even better for your kid. Children love being helpful (it makes them feel grown-up), and volunteering "gives them the chance to experience the deeply rewarding payoff that comes from making someone else happy," says Deborah Spaide, author of Teaching Your Kids to Care. When Your Child Gives, He Gets... Courage to initiate change. When a child improves someone else's life, he sees that he can change the world around him
• President Obama's Official World AIDS Day 2012 Proclamation:
  President Obama echoed Sec. of State Hillary Clinton's earlier stated goal of obtaining an HIV-free generation in an official proclamation for World AIDS Day on Saturday. Today, we reflect on the strides we have taken toward overcoming HIV/ AIDS, honor those who have made our progress possible, and keep in our thoughts all those who have known the devastating consequences of this illness. The road toward an AIDSfree generation is long -- but as we mark this important observance, let us also remember that if we move forward every day with the same passion, persistence, and drive that has brought us this far, we can reach our goal. We can beat this disease. On World AIDS Day, in memory of those no longer with us and in solidarity with all who carry on the fight, let us pledge to make that vision a reality. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States do hereby proclaim December 1, 2012, as World AIDS Day. I urge the Governors of the States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of the other territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in appropriate activities to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS and to provide support and comfort to those living with this disease.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 10th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Alleged Con-Artist Remanded:
  The arrest and subsequent imprisonment, on remand, of Leroy Richards, is reported by San Ignacio Police as the dismantling of the operations of a con-man. The activities of this alleged con-artist began to unravel with the November 26 reporting of a stolen motorcycle. Humberto Requena of a Collins Boulevard address in San Ignacio reported that sometime between 10:00 pm on Sunday, November 25 and 5:00 am on Monday, November 26, 2012, someone stole his black Melium brand motor cycle, valued at $1,594.40, from inside his yard. The investigation led to the recovery of Requena's motorcycle from a residence in Unitedville.
• Guatemalan Begins Serving Real Prison Time:
  On the basis of a not guilty plea to a drug trafficking charge, Guatemala, Ebner Adan Gonzalez, has been anguishing in prison for almost a year after he was allegedly busted with almost four pounds of marijuana on December 29, 2011. As he continued to maintain the not guilty plea, the case, which has gone through several adjournments, came up again up in court on Tuesday, December 4, where he changed the plea to guilty thereby bring the matter to an abrupt end. He was ordered to forthwith pay a ten thousand dollar fine or three years prison time in default of payment. Gonzalez, 18 years at the time, arrived at this juncture in his life when on December 29, 2011 a team of policemen, on mobile patrol on George Price Avenue in the Trapiche area of Santa Elena, saw him taking out something from a black knap sack and throwing it into nearby bushes.
• BTB's Taste Of Belize Huge Success In San Ignacio:
  The Belize Tourism Board held the 10th Taste of Belize on December 1st and 2nd in San Ignacio, Cayo. The event attracted hundreds of patrons and saw the participation of close to twenty professionals in four culinary competitions. On Saturday night at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, guests were taken on a culinary journey through a five course meal prepared by Chef Sean Kuylen, which included Macal River Jute Snails, Lobster & Chayote Pot Pie, as well as Gibnut, Goat & Pork Skewers. Patrons were treated to free wines and beers for the cock-tail hour; body painted models with exotic animals; cultural entertainment from the Belize National Dance Company, along with Marimba music from Alma Belicena; free photos, and complimentary gift bags. Guests for the evening, were not only entertained and inspired, but also educated through a special screening of a documentary entitled, 'Taste of Belize,' a video that traces the evolution of Belizean cuisine and explores the depth of the Belizean culture through food. The guests were also treated to three live culinary competitions in the Pro Chef, also took home a brand new grill courtesy of James Brodie & Company Limited, along with one thousand dollars courtesy of the BTB.
• Cayo Welcomes The Cayo Welcome Center:
  Over this past weekend the Belize Tourism Board brought its annual Taste of Belize Competition to San Ignacio. The event began on Saturday night at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. It ended on Sunday with the Belize Bar-B-Que and Food Festival 2012 at the soon to be officially inaugurated Cayo Welcome Center in the heart of San Ignacio Town. Sunday's event provided a rare opportunity for the people of San Ignacio, Santa Elena and surrounding communities along with visitors to interact within the confines of this new and impressive facility. The occasion and the facility likewise provided a spin-off boost in economic activity as local crafts people and entrepreneurs grasped the opportunity to make money.
• Driving In The Rain: This May Save Your Life:
  We are not sure why it is so effective; just try this method when it rains heavily. This method was given me by a Police friend who had experienced and confirmed it. It is useful....even driving at night. One method used by Canadian Military Drivers for years. Most of the motorists would turn on HIGH or FASTEST SPEED of the wipers during heavy downpour, yet the visibility in front of the windshield is still bad. In the event you face such a situation, just try your SUN GLASSES (any model will do), and miracle! All of a sudden, your visibility in front of your windshield is perfectly clear, as if there is no rain. Make sure you always have a pair of SUN GLASSES in your car, as you are not only helping yourself to drive safely with good vision, but also might save your friend's life by giving him this idea.. Try it yourself and share it with your friends! Amazing, you still see the drops on the windshield, but not the sheet of rain falling. NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON.
• Ix Chel Tropical Research GROW TO LEARN GARDEN:
  School gardens teach children responsibility, a caring for nature, and an understanding of agriculture, science, relationships, and life processes. IxChel tropical Research Centre has launched a new program, The Grow to Learn Garden, at the Santa Elena Primary School here in the Cayo District. We're starting this program with an 18 x 10 plot of land to grow herbs and vegetables. This "garden classroom", will give students an understanding of how the local food system works and serves as a link to local farmers, and others involved in agriculture. Also growing herbs and vegetables in the same plot will educate the children about plants that serve as medicine and food. The kids will be in charge of weeding, watering and overall protecting the plants, of course with the supervision of their class teacher and IxChel's project coordinator, Ms Salome Oliver. We will grow lemon grass, oregano, barsley, calalu, aloe vera, rue, mint, tree of life and sorosi. Chives, cilantro, lettuce, cucumbers, chilis and lettuce will fill the vegetable boxes.
• Philippines: Typhoon Bopha Death Toll Rises:
  The death toll from a powerful storm battering the southern Philippines has risen to about 200, as rescue teams arrive in affected areas. At least 156 people are known to have died in Compostela Valley province alone when Typhoon Bopha struck eastern Mindanao, local officials mentioned. Rescuers have reached most areas, but have had difficulty getting to some isolated communities. Many were evacuated ahead of the storm, now over the western island of Palawan. The typhoon is expected to move out into the South China Sea on Thursday.
• Sacred Heart Junior College's Second Open Day:
  On Wednesday, November 28, 2012, Sacred Heart Junior College (SHJC) held its second annual Open Day on SHJC grounds. SHJC is known for being one of the leading junior colleges in the country offering quality, affordable, hands-on Associate degrees and Certificate Programs in the areas of Accounting, Business, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Primary Education, General Studies, Tourism Management, Information Technology, and Pre-Medical Studies. With a student population of approximately 600 students and dynamic, professional, qualified mentors, SHJC stands true to being the conducive, learning environment where students are motivated, inspired, and transformed.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 16th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Santa Elena Woman Facing Murder Charge:
  The latest murder in the twin towns occurred shortly before midnight on Saturday, December 8, 2012, on Carillo Puerto Avenue in Santa Elena, Cayo. The incident actually came as no surprise to the neighbourhood as many are of the opinion that, given the regular confrontation between the major players, it was an incident just waiting to happen. While the incident has resulted in a murder charge, San Ignacio police is classifying it as a crime of passion between two gay female lovers whom, the investigation revealed, had been living together for over two years. San Ignacio police reports that at 11:45 pm on Saturday, December 8, 2012, they were summoned to La Loma Luz Hospital in Santa Elena where they came upon the lifeless body of a female with a stab wound to the throat, bruises to both arms, abrasions to both lips and a cut wound to the right arm.
• Another Drug Trafficker Sent to Jail:
  Failure to pay a ten thousand dollar fine could result in a three year prison term for a convicted young drug trafficker. The case against the convicted youth, Kemani Grinage, 19, began over five months ago on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 when, at around7:45 pm, San Ignacio police, on mobile patrol in Santa Elena Town came upon the then accused, along with another older person, Alexander Hernandez, 28, as they stood under a shrub in the center of La Loma Luz Boulevard near its junction with George Price Highway. Both Grinage and Hernandez were searched but nothing incriminating was found on their person. The police however observed a white plastic bucket on the ground between both male persons and when questioned, Grinage reportedly told the police that the bucket was his and that he had just taken it out of his car. A search of the bucket led to discovery of a black plastic bag containing a tightly wrapped package in a transparent wrapper which, when cut open, was found to contain suspected marijuana. At this point both men denied knowledge of the illegal substance.
• Official Opening of Mental Health Resource Center:
  The Mental Health Day Care/ Resource Center Project was officially inaugurated this past month in a small ceremony in Belize City. The new facility will not be a residential center but it will provide a daily meal, medical referral and recreation for the homeless and people living with mental health problems. Speakers at the opening included representatives from the Mental Health Association, the Mental Health Program of the Ministry of Health and from the Social Investment Fund. The Mayor of Belize City His Worship, Darrell Bradley also provided contributing remarks. Minister of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin spoke at the ceremony where he congratulated all the partners who came together to make the center a reality.
• National HIV Program Reveals Behavioural Survey Findings:
  A Behavioural Seropervalence Survey (BSS) was conducted earlier this year in three specific groups. Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), Female Sex Workers (FSW) and Persons Living with HIV (PHIV.) The specific objectives and results were released to the press last month and can be found on the Ministry's website: www.health.gov.bz. A summary of the other findings that are worthy to mention include the following: Out of the 220 FSW recruited, only three did not accept to undergo the HIV test and 35 did not get a test for STIs. For MSM, 136 were recruited for the survey and out of that, 130 accepted to undergo the HIV test as well as the screening for other STIs. 60% reported having gotten the HIV result in the last 12 months and also all have received their results. We also noted that 58.9% had done their test at a Public clinic or hospital.
• Northern Regional Conducts Training In Maternal And Child Health:
  Although no formal complaints of Maternal care at the Northern Regional Hospital have been reported to the Ministry of Healh, we have investigated specific reports from the news media outlets and an aggressive plan of action including trainings in specific areas has been implemented over the past month. The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Unit of the Ministry has conducted training for both doctors and nurses on the use of the partograph in the progression of labor. It shows when labor is proceeding at a normal rate and when care providers should begin possible intervention procedures. Training for both doctors and nurses has also been carried out in the general review of the management of Postpartum Hemorrhage and Hemorrhagic Shock, also reorientation in the monitoring of fetal wellbeing, and also in the use of referral instruments and transfer protocols when facilitating patients that need to referred to the specialist at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. Most of the training has been facilitated by the Technical Advisor of MCH in the Ministry.
• Trinity College Awards Doctor Of Laws Degree To Senior Belizean Lawyer:
  It is with great pleasure that the Board of Directors at Trinity College has this day awarded Dean R. Lindo, a Doctor of Laws (Legum Doctor, LL.D.honoris causa ad gradum). This is in recognition of his achievements in the field of law, his public service, and his unfailing support to the social and economic welfare of the country of Belize. Dr.Lindo has previously been awarded the Degree of Utter Barrister from the Grays Inn, London, England, a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts from New York University, and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Durham, England. Dr.Lindo has been a senior partner for the law firm of Lindo & Arnold since its formation in 1964. He was admitted to the Inter-American Bar Association and admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court, the New York Court System, the United States Federal Court of Appeal, the United States Court of Customs and Patents Appeals and was admitted as Barrister-at-Law and Solicitor to the Belize Bar and as a Barrister-at-Law to the English Bar.
• BNET Funds New Library For ACC:
  Energy Trust provided a grant of $54,000 to the Anglican Cathedral College (ACC) for the renovation of a fully functioning library. Today, the Inauguration ceremony for the newly renovated library 10:00 a.m. Mistress of Ceremony for the event was Ms. Sherlene Cabral. The program got underway with the opening prayer by Barry White. The national anthem was performed by the school's recorder group and the welcome address was delivered by Jaime Williams. Principal's remarks was delivered by Principal Ismael Requena and this was followed by student Asher Lopez reciting a poem. The introduction of the Chairman of the Belize Natural Energy Trust, Daniel Gutierez, was delivered by Ryan Bainton.
• STAR Humor: Magician and Parrot
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 23rd, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Police Commissioner's Son Busted With Western Weed:
  The eldest son of an Assistant Commissioner of the Belize Police Department is currently on remand behind bars on a drug trafficking charge. The report coming out of Beque police informs that it was shortly after 1 o'clock on the evening of Thursday, December 13, 2012, at about 1:15 pm when the attention of a team of policemen on mobile patrol in the Calla Creek Road area of the jurisdiction, was drawn to a suspicious grey Ford F 150 pickup, with a camper, traveling out of the village towards the George Price Highway. In complying with police instructions the driver halted and exited the vehicle. Nothing incriminating was found inside the cab of the vehicle. The search then proceeded to the back of the vehicle where the police came upon two rimless tires which when searched were found to contain a dozen black plastic bags tightly wrapped with transparent plastic tape which when opened in the presence of the driver was found to contain suspected marijuana.
• The New Rene Montero, Hon. Rene Montero Inspecting One Of The Many Works Currently Underway In Cayo Central:
  The first term in office was a learning experience for Cayo Central's Area Representative/ Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Rene Montero. When he was put to the test in the March 7, 2012 general elections; he received a narrow passing mark and was almost defeated by a new comer on the political scene. Subsequent to that narrow victory, a new Rene Montero has emerged. He has shed himself of the political baggage and negative vibes from political hangers-on who did him major political damage throughout his first five-year term in office. The new Rene Montero has hit the ground running after the experience of March 7. The new Rene Montero is now focused on putting his shoulders to the wheel in immediately addressing the needs of his constituents. He has publicly committed that he will not wait until an election year or in the months leading up to the next test at the polls to do what has to be done for residents of Cayo Central.
• Brady Busted By Benque Police:
  The ever vigilant police team in Benque Viejo town has scored yet another drug bust as the importation of Guatemalan weed seeks to make the eastward transit into Belize. It was shortly before 5:30 pm on Monday, December 17, when a team of alert policemen from Benque Viejo Town, on motorcycle patrol, spotted a pair of suspicious male persons walking on Churchill Street, in the center of the town. One of them had a small, red, white and blue plastic sack slung over the shoulder. They were stopped and searched. The search resulted in the discovery of two parcels tightly wrapped in black plastic and bound with transparent tape. When the parcels were opened, they were found to contain suspected marijuana.
• Let There Be Light In Bradley's Bank:
  A rural electrification project, which will benefit more than 200 residents in the Bradley's Bank Area of Santa Elena Cayo District, was launched this Sunday afternoon. The project, to be financed by the Government of Belize through the Social Investment Fund and will be implemented by the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) at a cost of $211,567 with funds coming by way of the Commonwealth Debt Initiative (CDI). The project includes the extension of overhead electrical lines to approximately 157 lots with the installation of seven transformers, almost 80 polls and almost 15 thousand feet of power lines. In his keynote address, Hon. Rene Montero, Minister of Works and Transportation and Area Representative for Cayo Central, spoke about the significance of the project and the great conveniences it would bring to the residents of Bradley's Bank. He told the gathering that he remains committed imporving the lives of the people of his constituency.
• Child of Faith:
  Mrs. Diana Azueta was the 2nd of five (5) children born to Mr. & Mrs. John Swift. Diana grew up in St. Mary's literally where by the time she was born her mother Sylvia Swift was already a teacher at the school and an active member of the church. Mrs. Sylvia Swift later became an outstanding principal in the chain of exemplary teachers and principals of St. Mary's school, like Basil Coleman, Mrs. Hinkson and Mrs. Marcella Weatherburne. In 1968 Diana entered Wesley College and graduated and then advanced to 6th form. She married Alfonso Azueta, an Auditor in the Government Service. The union produced one child, a beautiful daughter Nyani. Alfonso is now deceased.
• Welcome Home Dr. Tisha L. Spence:
  As a tribute to the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Spence from Santa Elena, Cayo District, the family is proud to announce that the Spence granddaughter, Dr. Tisha L. Spence is visting Belize. Dr. Spence, the daughter of Mrs. Selma Spence-Jackson, is celebrating the memories of her late grandparents, during her stay in Belize. She is a Pediatrician and graduate of Southern Illinois School of Medicine, Springfield, USA.. She is currently in her second year of residency, at the Morehouse University in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Spence is now pursuing her Pediatric Fellowship in Neonatal Medicine (Neonatology).
• Inmates And Guards Killed In Mexico Jailbreak Attempt:
  At least 17 people have been killed during an attempted jailbreak in Mexico, officials say. Eleven inmates and six guards died in a shootout in the city of Gomez Palacio as the prisoners tried to escape through tunnels. Gang violence is an endemic problem in the Mexican penal system. The incident happened a day after President Enrique Pena Nieto announced the creation of a national police force to help tackle crime and violence. The latest deadly clashes, which occurred in the state of Durango, appear to have happened when wardens tried to prevent prisoners from fleeing, the BBC's Mexico correspondent Will Grant reports.
• Crime - A Social Problems Of A Developing Country:
  Crime is defined as the breaking of laws set by the governing body of a country. It may come in many forms from as little as lying to even killing. This is one of the social problems most affecting the developing world. There are obviously many troubles that come along with having this problem in a society, and we see it everyday. And we always try to cure this problem by attacking it from that angle, but why not look at it from another? Why not try to find out what are causing these problems, and furthermore, find out what we need to do to fix them? What Causes people to murder? This question gives rise to an array of answers, and they are all are correct, even if in the pettiest of ways. One of the most influential though, is the pessimistic relationship between poverty and education. Globally, poverty is at a high, and because of that, there are many people who do not have the opportunity to afford secondary schooling, much less tertiary.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 30th, 2012 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• No Arrest Yet In The Murder of Rene Vera:
  As the community records yet another murder with homosexual overtones, an arrest is yet to be made while the Christmas plans of the victim's family was shattered and the remains of yet another productive male person was committed to the earth from whence it is said to have come. Funeral services for Rene Vera, 36, Belizean laborer formerly of a Bishop Martin Street address in Santa Elena, Cayo was held at the Sacred Heart Church in San Ignacio, on Thursday, December 27. The body was laid to rest inside the Carmen Memorial Cemetery in Santa Elena.
• Introducing The Nation's New Ombudsman, Mr Lionel L. Arzu:
  Mr. Lionel L. Arzu, has been officially sworn in as the new Ombudsman for Belize. This took place in brief ceremonies this morning in the presence of the Governor-General of Belize, His Excellency Sir Colville Young. Mr. Arzu leaves behind his post as a teacher at Julian Cho Technical High School in the Toledo District, where he resides. Prior to this, he served as an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Belize, Toledo Campus; Project Coordinator for the Meso-American Project, and numerous other posts within the agricultural sector.
• Questioning The Appointment Of The New Ombudsman Of Belize. Is It Really Because He Is A Garifuna?:
  This is the first time a Garifuna person in Belize has been appointed as Ombudsman and we should be proud of this especially given the fact that the chances for a Garifuna to be appointed to a post like this in Honduras, Nicaragua and Guatemala is slim to never. I suspect that because he is a Garifuna someone is questioning whether he will be able to handle the responsibilities of the office. This did not occur when Paul Rodriguez, a former Mayor of Belize City, was appointed as the first Ombudsman of Belize. We likewise did not see it happen when Cynthia Pitts was similarly appointed until the recent expiration of her contract. I do not know Mr. Lionel Arzu but reviewing at his academic credentials, given the necessary support, he should have no problems doing the job.
• Rotary Project "Literacy Alive" Brings Professional Laminators To Cayo Schools:
  Literacy is one of the most important preconditions for a successful life. Being able to read enables a person to take part in everyday and business life and make a good living. Consequently learning to read belongs to the most important objectives in primary schools throughout Belize. The educational success however depends on several factors like the talent of as kid as well as his or her social and language background. Equally important are the literacy related capacities of the teachers as well as the methods and materials that are used to teach reading.
• Ten Life-Changing Facts About Anger:
  "Yes, I was angry. And I was a little afraid. After all I've not been free in so long. But, when I felt that anger well up inside of me, I realized that if I hated them after I got outside that gate, then they would still have me. I wanted to be free so I let it go." ~Nelson Mandela upon leaving prison after 27 years of confinement Frustrated, impatient, raging� aaarrrrrrgh! Yes, it's normal to feel angry - you are human, after all. But if anger causes problems in your life - if it interferes with your health and happiness - then consider these 10 life-changing facts. Get curious about anger, and you just might discover an untapped well of vital energy that improves your life circumstances and wakes you up to the whole of life.
• Benque Viejo Christmas Bash:
  Program under the leadership of Captain Samuel Bruce since 2008; participating with the Community Policing Effort of Police Sub-Formation Benque Viejo, produced a spectacular event for the residents, with their annual Christmas Bash for the community of Benque Viejo. Located at the spacious multipurpose community park on Mr. Bruce's property, the party had all the trimmings; Stone constructed community center, 3-tents, chairs, DJ kahlib sound system, bathroom facilities, electric & water supply, two football courts, volleyball court, running track, BMX Bike track, and swimming pool under construction.
• Cayo Central Christmas Football Cup:
  On September 19, 2012, eight teams from Santa Elena Town participated in a football marathon held at the Santa Elena football field, to kick off the Cayo Central Christmas Cup Sponsored by the Hon. Rene Montero, Area Representative for Cayo Central And Minister of Works & Transport. This past Sunday was the Finals for the competition and the Trapiche Team and the Hill view team played an exciting and competitive game and exhibit discipline and excellent sportsmanship. At the end of the day Minister Rene Montero was present to issue the first place trophy along with a cash prize of $500.00 to the Trapiche Team, the winner of the competition.
• US Requests Colombia Urabenos 'gang leader' Extradition:
  Prosecutors in the United States have requested the extradition of one of Colombia's most wanted drug dealers, detained two months ago in Argentina. Henry de Jesus Lopez Londono, known as Mi Sangre or My Blood, is the alleged leader of the Urabenos gang, which operates in northern Colombia. Argentine media reported that he was due to be released on 2 January unless there was a formal extradition request. Lopez entered Argentina with a false passport, police said. The 41-year-old Colombian posed as a Venezuelan businessman, travelling for work.
• Bolivia Takes Over Ownership Of Two Spanish Owned Electricity Companies:
  Bolivia has brought two Sanish-owned electricity supply companies under state control. President Evo Morales accused the subsidiaries of the Spanish company, Iberdrola, of overcharging consumers in rural areas. Mr Morales said rural households had been paying three times more for their electricity than people in urban areas. The left-wing president has previously nationalised oil, telecommunications and energy-generating companies. "We had to see that the quality of electricity service is uniform in rural as well as urban areas," Mr Morales said. He added that his decree was in line with the South American country's constitution, which says that the public interest is above private interests when it comes to the supply of energy.
• How Indian Women Are Treated:
  People have called her Braveheart, Fearless and India's Daughter, among other things, and sent up a billion prayers for a speedy recovery. When the unidentified woman died in a Singapore hospital early on Saturday, the victim of a savage rape on a moving bus in the capital, Delhi, it was time again, many said, to ask: why does India treat its women so badly? Female foetuses are aborted and baby girls killed after birth, leading to an an appallingly skewed sex ratio. Many of those who survive face discrimination, prejudice, violence and neglect all their lives, as single or married women.
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The January 13th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• From Jail To Jail Again - Puc Is back In Jail:
  the community for the New Year is said to have occurred a mere ten hours after the passage of the old year. In this incident, an estranged boyfriend, fresh out of prison, is reported to have attacked and inflicted five stab wounds to a former girlfriend. San Ignacio police reports that acting on a 911 call at around 10:45 on New Year's Day, a team of policemen rushed to #12 on 15th Street where they encountered a bleeding woman standing outside the house. She was later identified as Julisa Flores, 25, Guatemalan laborer of the same address. The accused, later identified as Alvin Puc, 31, Belizean laborer residing in the village of San Jose Succotz, was encountered on the scene in the custody of a group of neighbors who had effected a citizens' arrest.
• Recording The Passing Of Mr. Godsman Ellis:
  It is with profound sadness that we record the January 9, 2013 passing of a pioneering Belizean, Mr. Godsman Celestino Ellis, 83. Godsman Celestino Ellis was born in Honduras on November 9, 1929. He passed away on January 9, 2013, exactly two months after his 83rd birthday. Although he was born in Honduras, his visionary Belizean father by birth decided it would be best to register his son in British Honduras. When Godsman Ellis was only eight months old his father returned to British Honduras where Godsman would spend the rest of his life. He attended Sacred Heart Primary School in Dangriga up until he was ten years of age, when he was approached by an instructor named Eric Sebastian requesting for Godsman to accompany him to Xaibe Village in the Corozal District where he completed his primary education. It was in the Corozal District that the young Godsman Ellis was afforded the opportunity to learn the Spanish language. It was also in Corozal that he discovered his appreciation for the Maya culture.
• Cousin Charged in Cousin's Stabbing Death:
  Ten days after the December 21, 2012 stabbing death of a Santa Elena man, police is reporting the arrest and incarceration of the man they believe committed the crime. The accused murderer Joseph August, 22, was first detained shortly after December 22 discovery of the body of Rene Vera inside the bedroom of his residence on Bishop Martin Street in Santa Elena. Although August was reportedly found with scratch wounds to various parts of the body, the evidence was reportedly insufficient to proceed with the murder charge. He was held for the prescribed 48 hours and was released.
• Conorque And Gongora Facing Assault Charges:
  A man who is said to have used a knife and a gun to assault a male resident of Esperanza Village was today remanded to prison on two aggravated assault charges while his young accomplice, similarly charged, was freed on a three thousand dollar bail. San Ignacio police reports that at around 7:00 pm on Sunday, December 30, 2012, the victim, Gabriel Pennil, 30, Belizean farmer of Esperanza Village departed the home a friend he visited in Georgeville Village. Pennil was reportedly on his way to the bus stop in Georgeville, when in the area of the basketball court, he was attacked by two male persons he has known for over eight years. In a statement to the police the victim informed that one of the male persons pulled out a knife with a wooden handle, from his waist and advanced towards him in a stabbing motion. He said that the second person ordered him not to make any foolish moves. He identified the attackers as Jovan Conorque and Brandon Gongora.
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The January 20th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Belize City Youth Charged In Cayo For $15 Robbery:
  A 20 year man from Belize City was today arrested, charged and remanded to prison on a robbery charge. San Ignacio police reports that on Sunday, January 13, 2013 at about 8:15 pm Ervin Tzul, 23, Belizean Lab Technician visited the police station in San Ignacio where he reported that he was robbed a few minutes earlier while socializing with friends inside the Macal River Park in San Ignacio. The complainant informed that while inside the park the group was approached by a male person of dark complexion wearing a blue shirt with stripes and a blue pants. The man, armed with a knife, reportedly approached the complainant demanding his cellular telephone and money.
• Increase Fee For Drivers License Is Optional:
  Paying twice the statutory fee for a drivers' permit in the twin towns of San Ignacio/Santa Elena is optional says Mayor John August. In the face of the doubling of the statutory drivers' license fee in the twin municipalities, the contention blew up earlier this week when, on Monday, January 14, the Ministry of Labour, Local Government, Rural Development, National Emergency Management and Immigration & Nationality, issued a public notice informing that pursuant of Statutory Instrument #182 of 2003, the legal fee for the issuance of a driver's license is ONLY thirty Belize dollars and that drivers are not required to pay anything above the thirty dollars fee.
• Is An Accused Drug Trafficking Policeman Shielded By The Police?:
  A police constable on interdiction for allegedly being involved in illegal activities in Belmopan City has been arrested and charged with drug trafficking after he was allegedly caught in the act. Acting upon information received at around 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 15, a team of policemen from the Benque Viejo sub-formation rushed to area near the western border station. Upon arrival they were informed that the person wearing a blue t-shirt and blue � pants boarded a taxi cab heading into Benque Viejo Town.
• Godsman C. Ellis - Is Now At Rest:
  We take this opportunity to express deepest sympathy to the Ellis family on the passing of Mr. Godsman Ellis. Mr. Ellis was indeed a pioneer in several aspect of Belizean life. He was instrumental in agriculture, tourism and the Garifuna council among several other undertakings. He lived a fruitful life. Mr. Ellis has now gone to rest. May his soul now rest in eternal peace.
• Looking For Mr. Hilary Wade Delmar:
  I am the younger Brother of Mr. Hilary Wade Delmar. On June 12th, 2011 your paper reported on an American by the name of Hilary Wade Delmar arrested by local police. Mr. Delmar was arrested and in custody, awaiting charges for being in the possession of excess ammunition and a contraption suspected to be used for smoking marijuana.
• Cuba Confirms 51 Cholera Cases In Havana:
  Cuba's health ministry has confirmed a cholera outbreak in Havana with 51 people infected - the biggest incidence of the disease there in decades. An official statement said health workers had detected an increase in "acute diarrhoea" in some districts, which has been established as cholera. The source has been identified as a foodseller who caught cholera during a previous outbreak in eastern Cuba. Doctors have been going house to house in Havana areas, checking for symptoms.
• Guatemala Shock As Two Murdered Girls Found On Street:
  Guatemalan police are investigating the murder of two girls aged six and 12 whose bodies were found dumped on a street in the capital, Guatemala City. The girls, who were wearing pyjamas, appeared to have been strangled, officials said. Police are trying to establish whether their deaths are linked to the murders of two women found with gunshot wounds in the same district. Some 700 women were killed in Guatemala in 2011, according to official figures. The bodies of the two girls were found in the early hours of Wednesday on a street in Zona 11, a southern district of Guatemala City.
• Thank You For Your Support:
  I would like to start by saying thank you for promoting the Kontiki Family Fun Day and apologies for the tardiness of this letter. The reason for this tardiness is because in an effort to sell a few more raffle tickets we postponed the raffling date for November 30th, 2012. The purpose of this article is to thank all the kind and generous hearts who gave freely, thank you to all the people of Kontiki and surrounding areas who attended the event and all those who contributed to make this day a success.
• Early HIV Drugs 'Slow Virus Down':
  Giving a patient HIV drugs as soon as they are diagnosed could be the future of treatment, say researchers. Currently, antiretroviral therapy is given only once the immune system has been seriously weakened by infection. A trial, in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed that a year-long course of therapy after diagnosis helped preserve the immune system and keep the virus in check. It is thought that early treatment may also reduce the spread of HIV.
• New Belize High Commissioner to Canada Meets Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper:
  His Excellency Nestor Mendez, Ambassador of Belize to the United States of America and Permanent Representative of Belize to the Organization of American States, yesterday presented his Letter of Introduction to the Right Honorable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, accrediting him as Belize's High Commissioner to Canada. The meeting took place in the Office of the Prime Minister in Ottawa, Canada, where High Commissioner Mendez discussed with the Canadian leader issues of prominence in the Belize -Canada bilateral relationship. During his visit to Canada, High Commissioner Mendez also met and had discussions with senior officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, officials of the Department of National Defense, and representatives of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
• Venezuela Vice President Faces Leadership Test:
  As ailing President Hugo Chavez's successor, Vice President Nicolas Maduro is in charge. But he faces hurdles in solidifying support in a post-Chavez Venezuela.
• Lance Armstrong: How It Feels To Lose Faith In Your Favourite Sport:
  Bitter, angry, disappointed, but hopeful. As a lifelong cycling fan, that's how I feel after Lance Armstrong's confession - and now that, maybe, a line can be drawn under years of lies and deceit. Imagine how you would feel if you discovered that the there had been so much cheating at such a high level across the sport you love, that a decade's worth of results could no longer be relied upon. What would you think if the sport could no longer say with any great certainty who had won the Premiership, or the World Cup? That is effectively what has happened in cycling.
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The January 27th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Barroom Brawl Lands B.D.F Behind Bars:
  A heated argument which began inside a popular nightclub in San Ignacio Town culminated in near fatality. In the incident two on-duty security guards emerged with serious cut wounds while a police special constable was stabbed in the arm and the three alleged aggressors were badly beaten. The incident reportedly began inside the Blue Angels Nightclub at around 2 0'clock on the morning of Sunday, January 20, 2013. It is reported that the incident began when the attention of Jermaine Pandy, one of the club's security guards, was drawn to difficulties a colleague guard, David Wright, was experiencing at the top of the entrance stairs, as he was seeking to eject two male persons from the club.
• Rene Montero At Work:
  Although it is early into his second term in office, Hon. Rene Montero, Minister of Works and Transport is certainly not committing the errors of the past. He is not leaving things for the last few months before the next general elections as his works in the constituency continues. The road into Hillview up to Eden Adventist High School has been paved with the commitment to completing the paving of that entire stretch of access road into the Hillview community a project which has been promised by several Area Representatives dating as far back as to the days of the PUP's Daniel Silva Jr. The Hon. Rene Montero is making reality his promise to the people living in the Hillview Community.
• Letters: Police Covering For Police:
  Your comment in last week's edition of the STAR is indeed a valid one. It is no secret that the police covers up for police. They go to every means to cover the corrupt activities of those within their ranks. Apart from covering up the involvement of fellow policemen in drug trafficking and other corrupt activities, they also cover up the abusive domestic violence of those within their ranks. My sister lives with a jealous policeman and whenever he comes home drunk, which is increasing in frequency, he never fails to administers a severe beating on her.
• Letters: We Now Have An Adequate Supply Of Vehicles:
  There was a time in the recent past when the police was operating with scarce transport. The problem was brought to Government's attention and the matter was quickly addressed. We are now in a much better position. We no longer transport prisoners in an open back vehicle as they get wet when it rains on the road to and from prison. Today we have a new enclosed van to transport prisoners. Our vehicle supply is now adequate and for this we thank the government of Belize in general and the Minister of National Security, Hon. John Saldivar in particular.
• Belize Wins First-Ever Copa Centroamerican Game:
  Belize won its first-ever game at the UNCAF Copa Centroamericana and grabbed the inside track on an automatic berth in the CONCACAF Gold Cup with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Nicaragua on Tuesday at the Estadio Nacional. The scoreboard was opened against the run of play in the 29th minute, when Midfielder Trevor Lennen ran onto a ball at the top of the box, and rifled a shot into the back of the net that Nicaraguan goalkeeper Denis Espinoza could do little about. Nicaragua continued to press, but it was Belize that nearly extended its lead two minutes before the half. Harrison Rochez shot strongly from the top of the box, but his drive was denied by a diving Espinoza, and Lennen's follow up shot rolled just wide of the Nicaraguan goal, sending the game to halftime with Belize up one.
• North Korea 'Plans Third Nuclear Test':
  with plans for a third nuclear test. In a statement carried by KCNA news agency, the country's top military body said the "high-level nuclear test" and more long-range rocket launches were aimed at its "arch-enemy", the US. The statement gave no time-frame for the test. North Korea has conducted two nuclear tests, in 2006 and 2009. The move comes two days after a UN Security Council resolution condemned Pyongyang's recent rocket launch.
• Mexican Man Barbecued Neighbour's Dogs:
  A municipal police official in northern Mexico says officers have arrested a man who confessed to killing his neighbour's three dogs and barbecuing them. Police spokesman Adrian Sanchez says the arrest was made late on Tuesday based on an emergency call about a fight in the streets. Police said on Wednesday that Ulises Rodela, 39, was a confronted by his neighbour and told him he turned the dogs over to animal control upon finding them in the street. The owner told police that animal control had no record of receiving the dogs. Police said Rodela then confessed to barbecuing the dogs. Officials were still trying to confirm whether Rodela sold the meat.
• Female Smoking Death Risk 'Has Soared':
  News Changing habits such as starting earlier and smoking more cigarettes have been blamed for the dramatically increased risks of lung cancer. The trends, reported in the New England Journal of Medicine, show death rates in women have caught up with men. The study looked at data from more than two million women in the US. The first generation of women smokers started during the 1950s and 60s. In those early years, women who smoked were nearly three times more likely to die from lung cancer as people who had never smoked.
• Thousands Of Venezuelans In Pro-Democracy Rallies:
  Allies of Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez and the opposition have taken part in separate rallies to celebrate the end of military dictatorship. Thousands of "Chavistas" took to the streets of the capital, Caracas, while their opponents held a smaller event. The opposition used the date to criticise the government's handling of Mr Chavez's absence for illness. President Chavez has not been seen or heard since an operation six weeks ago to treat an undisclosed cancer.
• UB Partners With EU: Masters & PhD Scholarships Opportunities:
  The opportunity for Belizeans to pursue a Masters or a PhD degree is available once again through a program offered by the nation's tertiary institution, the University of Belize. The European Union project has provided funding for the scholarships through "The Caribbean-Pacific Islands Mobility Scheme (CARPIMS). CARPIMS II is funded by the Education, Audiovisual and Cultural Agency (EACEA) of the European Commission and is designed to facilitate the movement of Masters and PhD students and staff among a consortium of Universities from the Caribbean and Pacific regions. The program aims at building capacity and encouraging socioeconomic development in each country and each region.
• Venezuela Vice-President Claims Assassination Plot:
  Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's vice-president, claims the government has uncovered a plot to assassinate him and Diosdado Cabello, head of the national assembly. Mr Maduro said groups have been followed for weeks that "have the goal of trying to kill" him and Mr Cabello. "For that reason, they've said that we're fighting because their macabre and criminal move is to make attempts against our lives - something they won't achieve - and later on try to blame one or the other," he told supporters.
• UB Producing Almost 500 Qualified Students This Time:
  The University of Belize (UB) continues to build national capacity and human capital for socioeconomic development of Belize. Students who have successfully completed their course of study at the University of Belize will receive their diplomas at the Associate, Bachelor, Certificate and Diploma levels on Saturday January 26, at the University's Sixteenth Commencement Exercises, Central Campus, Belmopan.
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The February 3rd, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• No Arrest Yet In The Murder of Steven Valencia:
  An arrest is yet to be made in the shooting death of Steven Valencia, 40, who was fatally shot inside his home at around 8:30 pm on the night of Friday, January 25, 2013. San Ignacio police reports receiving the 911 call from the victim himself who reportedly told police that an intruder was at his back door trying to break it down. Valencia reportedly stayed on the telephone with the officer right up until he was fatally shot and killed by the intruder. While the police rushed to the scene, valuable time was lost as they mistakenly wasted time checking the Pasadita Bar located across the street from Valencia's residence. By the time the police rushed over to the right location it was too late as they came upon the lifeless body of Steven Valencia, face downwards, in a large pool of blood, on the floor inside his bedroom.
• Canadian Man Allegedly Falls To Death Inside Police Cell:
  As the police investigate the police, it is reported that an internal investigation has been ordered into the circumstances leading to the death of a Canadian national detained by San Ignacio police. Acting on a report received at around 10:30 pm on Saturday, January 26, of a suspected dead body on the ground in the Savannah Area, near the Welcome Center in San Ignacio, a team of policemen rushed to the scene where they encountered a male Caucasian laying face down on the ground. The man was aroused by the police and, with the high aroma of alcoholic beverage coupled with his inability to stand on his own, was suspected to have been in high state of drunkenness.
• Laid To Rest Master John Pinelo Sr.:
  It is with profound sadness that we join the community, and indeed the nation, in the expression of sincere condolences as we record the passing of a trade union giant, career teacher and principal, loving father, brother, uncle and true friend, Master John Pinelo Sr., MBE. After battling with cancer for several years, the 64 year old former President of the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) passed away quietly at home in San Ignacio on Saturday, January 26, 2013. John Pinelo was born in Trapiche, Santa Elena, Cayo on November 24, 1948. He attended Santa Elena RC School and started teaching as a Pupil Teacher in 1964.
• Food For Thought - "To ICJ or Not to ICJ?":
  The question that will be put to Belizeans in the Referendum this October is whether or not to take the still unresolved Belize-Guatemala dispute to the International Court of Justice for resolution. October seems a bit far down the road to some, but just around the corner to others. Somewhat like the threat of Guatemalan military invasion. For many older people, this was just a moment ago. To the younger generation? Ancient history. Something they themselves have no first-hand experience with. But while the historical animosity and failed attempts at diplomatic resolution form part of the collective historical memory for all adult Belizeans, ultimately it will be the ability, or inability, of the older heads to put the territorial dispute to rest. No matter the outcome, this will be our legacy to our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all future generations.
• The World Trike Tour Reached Belize!:
  On July 21, 2012 the German adventurers Andreas Zmuda and his partner Doreen Kroeber began there 100,000 miles trip around the world in a three-wheel, weight-shift ultralight plane, a kind of "flying motorbike", aim to set seven world records! There trip is planned to last approximately four years before landing in Sydney on August 31st, 2016. They will cross five continents, 74 countries and three oceans. Right now they make a brief stop till middle of February at Central Farm airstrip in Cayo and Placencia before flying to Honduras. Difficult weather conditions, delays caused by flat tires, a broken radio and long maintenance times have made every day and stage a new adventure. The traveling duo will document their four-year journey in their blog with detailed reports and photos with help from close-to-theaction 3-D cameras on the trike's wings. The trike can also be tracked on their website, Trike- Globetrotter.com.
• Bidding Farewell To A Friend By A Colleague And Friend:
  BY: Mr. George Frazer, Colleague Educator and Trade Unionist. We are gathered here today-family, past and present educators, trade union leaders, members, sympathizers and friends to celebrate the Life, memory, achievements and contributions of our dear departed Brother, the late, John Pinelo Sr., husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend; a humble, dedicated and great leader�who has inspired and touched many of our lives for the better and who has impacted many positive changes in the education and trade union system and movement of Belize and even beyond. John was a true, committed, visionary and fearless leader; a dedicated, loving and trusted familyman and friend, who, many times, went beyond the call of duty, even at great, personal sacrifice and that of his family to see and get things done.
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The February 10th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Father And Son Facing Joint Burglary Charge:
  A father and son, caught in the act of burglary, are today out on a three thousand dollar bail each after appearing in the Belmopan Court room of magistrate Linsbert Willis. The information reaching us indicated that at around 3:00 pm on Thursday, January 31, 2013, Georgeville police reportedly received an emergency call from Leopold Mai, Belizean caretaker at Maya Ranch Farm located in the village. Mai reported that two male persons, of Hispanic descent, arrived at the farm in a white pickup truck, broke the lock attached to the farm storeroom and were in the process of removing items from the building when he found them in the act.
• Burglary in Buena Vista:
  Police are this week reporting the solving of another burglary this one in the village of Buena Vista on the outskirt of the Mennonite community of Spanish Lookout. At around 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 2, 2013, the policeman stationed in Spanish Lookout received information of a burglary in progress in Buena Vista Village. The policeman rushed to the scene where he met the complainant Ramon Coronado who told the police that his house was burglarized and that he knew who committed the crime. Armed with this information, police visited the Buena Vista home of Victor Alfonso Limas. The suspect was reportedly found in bed where he was informed of the report made against him. He was detained and transported to the sub-station in Spanish Lookout.
• Sacred Heart College Auditorium Finally Becoming A Reality:
  After fundraising for many years Sacred Heart College has officially commenced construction of a 100X200 feet, state of the art multi-purpose facility which is expected to be completed in time for graduation in June. President of Sacred Heart College, Dr. Eve Aird, informed that reaching the ground breaking stage has been slow and painstaking. Dr. Aird informed that it took over six years to gather enough funds to start the project that is to become a major facility for sports and other social activities at Sacred Heart College. The auditorium which is estimated to cost over 2 million dollars was designed by Mr. Lennox Bradley, Chief Engineer in the Ministry of Works, himself a former student of the college. The facility will be constructed to withstand a category 4 hurricane. It will be pressed into service as a hurricane shelter. Upon completion the facility will house a grand stage for the performing arts, kitchen area and offices.
• Theft Of Haitian Relief Funds By The Red Cross On Third Earthquake Anniversary:
  Three years ago, an international expression of caring went out to Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake that devastated the nation. Belizeans responded with open hearts, giving what they could. The major focal point in Belize for collection of donations was the Belize Red Cross despite information surfacing that the Red Cross money did not always get to where it was supposed to go. We wrote the media and called the talk shows about the The Red Cross and offering an alternative way to donate, the Haiti Emergency Relief Fund (HERF). It was founded in March 2004 by Harry Belafonte and Danny Glover and worked to address the crisis of the earthquake as well as giving concrete aid to Haiti's grassroots democratic movement supporting the long-run development of human rights, sustainable agriculture and economic justice in Haiti.
• Michael Flowers - Taking Complaints For The Ombudsman Office:
  I would like to take this opportunity to inform readers that over the past two years I, Michael Flowers of #16 Carmen Street, Santa Elena, Cayo, has been authorized by the Office of the Ombudsman to record and forward complaints to that office. The Ombudsman at that time, Ms. Cynthia Pitts, has since retired and a new Ombudsman in the person of Mr. Lionel Arzu was recently appointed to fill the vacant post. This letter serves to inform under the auspices of the new Ombudsman, I have been re-appointed to continue providing this service to the people in all of the three office locations where my business is operated. I consider it a great privilege to be able to assist those persons with complaints that they believe could be handled by the office of the Ombudsman.
• Mexico Hunts Acapulco Spanish Tourist Rape Gang:
  Mexican authorities say they are determined to capture those responsible for the rape of six Spanish women near the holiday resort of Acapulco. Masked gunmen burst into a rented beach house on Monday, tied up and held at gunpoint six Spanish men as they attacked the women for several hours. A seventh woman escaped after telling the attackers she was a Mexican. Acapulco is one of Mexico's most famous beach resorts, but it has recently suffered from drug-related violence.
• From Your Valentine:
  month of February has millions across the world presenting their loved ones with candy, flowers, chocolates and other lovely gifts. In many countries, restaurants and eateries are seen to be filled with couples who are eager to celebrate their relationship and the joy of their togetherness through delicious cuisines. There hardly seems to be a young man or woman who is not keen to make the most of the day. The reason behind all of this is a kindly cleric named Valentine who died more than a thousand years ago. It is not exactly known why the 14th of February is known as Valentine's Day or if the noble Valentine really had any relation to this day. The history of Valentine's Day is impossible to be obtained from any archive and the veil of centuries gone by has made the origin behind this day more difficult to trace. It is only some legends that are our source for the history of Valentine's Day.
• Hemispheres: "Three Perfect Days In Belize":
  Belize has received the prestigious honor of being featured in the February 2013 issue of the United Airlines in-flight magazine, Hemispheres. Belize was chosen for the "Three Perfect Days" article, and is also featured on the cover of the magazine. To capture the hill authentic Belizean experience, the twelve page spread features a myriad of adventures and gives readers a peek at just what sets Belize apart; the people, culture, food, and landscapes are just a snapshot of what makes Belize the ideal tourist destination. Joe Keohane and Al Argueta take readers on a journey into the heart of Central America, Belize.
• Nine-year-old Girl In Mexico Gives Birth To Baby Girl:
  A 9-year-old girl in Mexico has given birth to a baby girl, Agence France- Presse reported Wednesday. Authorities are now hunting for the 17-year-old father in what they believe is a case of rape or sexual abuse, Mexican newspaper Milenio reported. "We are looking for the young man to get his story because she does not understand what has happened. This is a rape or child sex abuse case," Jorge Villasenor with the state prosecutors' office was quoted by Terra Noticias as saying. The girl, who has been identified as Dafne, was just over 8 when she got pregnant, the mother of the girl told local officials in the western state of Jalisco, AFP reported.
• University of Belize appoints Internal Auditor:
  The Office of the President of the University of Belize, Dr. Cary Fraser is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dudley Heredia, MBA, as Internal Auditor of the University of Belize. Mr. Heredia's appointment will serve to strengthen the management structure within the University and his role will focus upon ensuring that there is a continuous process of evaluation of institutional performance.
• Launching Of Belize Cancer Society San Ignacio Branch:
  The Belize cancer Society is pleased to announce the official launching of the Belize Cancer Society -San Ignacio Branch under the dynamic leadership of Mrs. Flora Usher and a team of dedicated committee members. The launch of the San Ignacio Branch is an important activity for the Cancer Society. The inauguration of the San Ignacio Branch signals to the community that the Belize Cancer Society is working to fulfill its mandate to advocate, educate, provide evidence based guidance, and promote the awareness,prevention and treatment of Cancer for the benefit of those affected and their families. The San Ignacio Branch of the Belize Cancer Society will provide opportunities to share information on lifestyle changes and services that support cancer prevention and control in Belize.
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The February 17th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Pineda In Critical Condition At KHMH:
  A Honduran man today is in a coma on life support at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. The incident which landed the man in the hospital is reported to have occurred inside Las Ninfas de Mariana Bar, located at #23 Back Street in San Ignacio which is operated by the victim's estranged common law wife from whom he has been separated for about two months. When police arrived on the scene at around 2:00 am on Sunday, February 10, 2013, they first came upon a male person of Hispanic descent sitting on the ground in the yard. His face was swollen and blood was coming from the nose and mouth. He was identified as Jose Santos Pineda the estranged common law husband of the bar operator, Mariana Galvez.
• Benque Teen Drowns:
  The body of Rodney Javan Guerra, 15, the victim of a drowning incident on Sunday afternoon, February 10, was laid to rest today in his hometown, Benque Viejo Del Carmen. It is reported that after having dinner at around 3:00 pm Guerra left home on a bicycle in the company of a younger brother. About an hour after leaving home, the family was notified of the tragedy which reportedly occurred in a popular swimming area of the Mopan River just behind the new clinic in Benque Viejo Town.
• Another Man Is On Life Support At The KHMH:
  Another man from San Ignacio, suffering from a blow to the back of the head with a blunt instrument, is on life support at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. It was around 2:00 am on Sunday, February 10, 2013 when the police was summoned to the emergency unit of the San Ignacio Community Hospital where they encountered a male Hispanic person, with an injury to the head, undergoing emergency medical treatment. A male youth who was present at the hospital identified the patient as his father, Pedro Choc, a taxi operator. The 16 year old boy told the police that, after the close of the Blue Angeles Night Club, his father was on a job transporting three male persons to Bella Vista Street just off Bullet Tree Road also in San Ignacio.
• Who Is LyIng?:
  One incident, two exact opposite pronouncements. A vehicle, admittedly the personal property of the Cayo North PUP elected Area Representative Joseph Mahmud was photographed with the front driver's side wheel, on top of a 17 year old boy. The politician confirms that he is the owner of the vehicle but that he was neither in the vehicle nor on the scene of the incident. The child's aunt who was the first responder is adamant as she continues to insist that the politician was on the scene and that when he and his associate refused to assist in getting her nephew for under the weight of the politician's vehicle, she reportedly began hurling curse words in their face.
• Editorial: The Days Of The PUP Are Numbered:
  The House of Representatives met last Wednesday during which Prime Minister Dean Barrow announced to the nation that the dreaded PUP Super Bond has been successfully renegotiated just like he publicly promised in the days leading up to the March 7, 2012 general elections. Wednesday, February 13, 2013 was just another day in which another possibility was transformed into reality. While economies of regional states are crumbling around us, Belize is recording unprecedented economic growth. While neighboring nations states are announcing tax increases, the cutting of thousands of jobs (aka retrenchment) occasioned by the inevitable entering into stand by arrangements with the dreaded International Monetary Fund, the Prime Minister of Belize, Hon. Dean Barrow stands proud, beats his chest and tells the IMF to go fly a kite.
• Jamaica In Crisis Debt-Swap Plan:
  Jamaica has announced plans for its second debt swap in three years in the face of a "serious economic crisis". Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller is taking measures to reduce its debt, which currently stands at 140% of gross domestic product (GDP), one of the highest ratios in the world. "If this debt is not reduced, Jamaica faces a dismal future," she said. The move is aimed at satisfying conditions demanded in a deal with the International Monetary Fund. About 55% of government spending goes towards paying the nation's debt, while 25% goes on wages. That leaves just 20% for everything else - including education, security and health.
• Do You Have A Favorite Child? You Should Read This:
  It is perhaps motherhood's dirtiest little secret: Favoring one child over another. Favoritism is usually not intentional and can happen for a variety of reasons. Maybe one kid is the most well-behaved in the brood, especially talented, has an inexplicable bond with a parent. And often times the opposite can be true: If one child has behavioral problems, he can become the favorite because he requires extra attention. And while moms may objectively realize that favoritism isn't ethical or even a conscious act, a new study published on Tuesday in the February issue of the journal Child Development shows that showing more love to one kid harms more than just the "naughty one"-it damages the entire family unit, causing increased mental health problems in children such as aggression, attention, and emotional problems.
• Learn These Basic CPR Steps:
  CALL 911 FIRST!Check the scene for immediate danger. Make sure you are not putting yourself in harm's way by administering CPR to someone unconscious. Is there a fire? Is the person lying on a roadway? Do whatever is necessary to move yourself and the other person to safety. Assess the victim's consciousness. Gently tap his or her shoulder and ask "Are you OK?" in a loud, clear voice. If he or she responds, CPR is not required. Instead, undertake basic first aid and take measures to prevent or treat shock, and assess whether you need to contact emergency services. If the victim does not respond, continue with the following steps. Call 911, give the dispatcher your location, and notify him or her that you are going to perform CPR. If you are alone, get off the phone and start compressions after that. If you have someone else with you, have him or her stay on the line while you do CPR on the victim.
• Chicago Names Joaquin Guzman Public Enemy No. 1:
  The city of Chicago has named its first public enemy number one since Al Capone - a drug cartel leader who lives in a mountain hideaway in western Mexico. Joaquin Guzman is the leader of the powerful Sinaloa cartel, which is suspected by federal agents supplying the bulk of narcotics sold in Chicago. The Chicago Crime Commission has named other public enemies, but the 1930s gangster was the only prior number one. The US has offered a $5m (�3.2m) reward for Guzman's capture. He has been indicted on federal trafficking charges and US officials want him extradited if he is ever captured, said on Thursday.
• Oscar Pistorius: Olympian and Paralympian faces murder charge:
  South African Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius is facing a murder charge after his girlfriend was shot and killed at his Pretoria home. His arrest over the death of model Reeva Steenkamp has stunned the country where he is considered a national hero. The 26-year-old is due to appear in court on Friday. Pistorius made history in London last year when he became the first double-amputee track athlete to compete in the Olympic Games.
• Six Arrested Over Rape Of Spanish Tourists In Acapulco:
  Six men have been arrested in Mexico in connection with the rape of six Spanish women near the holiday resort of Acapulco last week, officials say. Attorney General Jesus Murillo Karam said the suspects had confessed. The women were raped by masked gunmen who had broken into their bungalow. The police said they were looking for one more suspect. Acapulco is one of Mexico's most famous beach resorts, but it has recently suffered from drug-related violence. The brutality of the case shocked Mexicans and foreigners living in Mexico alike.
• Bolivia: Morales Criticises Chile Over Sea And Soldiers:
  Bolivia's President Evo Morales has renewed his calls for the release of three soldiers arrested in Chile. The soldiers were arrested in January after crossing the Chilean border carrying an assault rifle. In a speech marking the 134th anniversary of the war in which his country lost access to the Pacific Ocean, Mr Morales called the men "great defenders of the sea". It was the first time in decades that a Bolivian leader celebrated the event. Chile says the men were detained after entering the country illegally, while Bolivia argues they were following car smugglers as part of an army operation.
• Pope Benedict Hints He Will Retire Into Seclusion:
  The outgoing head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI, has hinted he will withdraw into seclusion after stepping down at the end of this month. "Even if I am withdrawing into prayer, I will always be close to all of you... even if I remain hidden to the world," he told a meeting of Roman priests. The pontiff, 85, shocked the world's biggest Christian Church on Monday when he announced his resignation. He cited his advanced age as the reason for resigning. The Pope appears to be planning a complete retreat from the public eye, the BBC's Alan Johnston reports from the Vatican.
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The February 24th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Jerome Tillet Remanded For Attempt Murder:
  A Ministry of Works truck driver, charged with the attempt murder of his sister's estranged common law husband, is currently on remand at the central prison in Hattieville. The 911 call of a chopping incident on Maxi Street in Santa Elena, Cayo, was reportedly received by San Ignacio police at 8:45 pm on Saturday, February 16, 2013. By the time the team of policemen arrived on the scene, the injured man had already been rushed, by relatives, to the Community Hospital in San Ignacio. On the scene however the police encountered and detained the suspect, Jerome Tillet, 30, Belizean driver also of a Maxi Street address in Santa Elena.
• Is Cotton Tree Village Dispatching Criminal To Urban Communities?:
  Last week we reported on the violent attack upon San Ignacio Taxi driver, Pedro Choc who remains in critical condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. This week we report on the arrest of the suspected attacker Alex Anthony Reid, 24, Belizean laborer residing in Cotton Tree Village around mile 44 on the George Price Highway in the Cayo District. Police strongly suspects that Reid is the man who whopped the taxi driver with a piece of wood behind the head. Reid, who is no stranger to San Ignacio, was picked out in an identification parade by both the brother and son of the victim. Slapped with an attempt murder charge, the accused Alex Anthony Reid appeared in front of San Ignacio's magistrate, Narda Morgan, where the indictable charge was read to him. Being a matter for Supreme Court hearing, no plea was entertained. Reid was remanded to the central prison in Hattieville with instructions to be brought back to court on Wednesday, April 24, 2013.
• Allegations Of Theft From Pro World:
  Two high ranking members from PRO World Foundation are in problems with the law as they stand accused of making off with cash belonging to the Foundation. John Mundy, 27, British/American Global Project manager for PRO World, visited the police station on Thursday, February 7, 2013, where he reported that on Monday, January 28, 2013, he visited the Foundation's office located at # 28 Benque Veijo Road in San Ignacio with intention to meet the local director, Akiesha Anderson to investigate the report of missing funds. Anderson was absent from the office and later sent Mundy a text message allegedly informing that she was resigning from the Foundation.
• U.D.P Poised To Win A Third Term:
  Four months of rigorous campaigning climaxed today at the Andres Campos Civic Center in Corozal on the occasion of the United Democratic Party's National Convention 2013. While thousands of UDP supporters, from every corner of the country, converged on the convention site, the focus was on the Party's 566 delegates from all 31 constituencies along with elected municipal officials, senators and members of the Party's Central Executive each with one vote to cast for the candidate of their choice to fill the three contested positions of First Deputy Party Leader, Party Chairman and Deputy Chairman of the Party.
• Bradley Accused Of Trafficking In Drugs:
  A well known Santa Elena man, accused of drug trafficking, is today out on a five thousand dollar bail. Police reports that on Friday, February 15, 2013, members of the Mobile Interdiction Team (MIT), on an anti-drug operation in Santa Elena, Cayo found over one and a half pounds of weed inside a house on George Price Avenue. The team, accompanied by a senior Justice of the Peace, conducted a search at the George Price Avenue residence of Derick Bradley. The search reportedly led to the discovery of 781.1 grams of marijuana, inside seven separated black plastic bags, found inside the cavity of a cement block in an interior wall.
• International Raid Targets Illegal Timber Trade:
  Interpol has announced that it arrested nearly 200 people in a wide-ranging international operation against illegal logging and the trafficking of timber. The three-month effort spanned 12 Central and South American countries, and $8m (�5.2m) worth of timber was seized. Interpol says the illegal logging trade could be worth up to $100bn world-wide. It has also been linked to a rise in murders and corruption, as criminal groups move into remote forest areas. Interpol said officials had checked lorries, ships and containers, as well as retailers and individuals, seizing a total of 50,000 cubic metres, or about 2,000 lorry-loads, of illicit timber. More than 100 people remain under investigation.
• Mexico Security Forces Colluded In Disappearances:
  The pressure group Human Rights Watch says Mexico has failed to properly investigate human rights abuses committed by the security forces. The group has documented almost 250 disappearances during the term of former President Felipe Calderon. It says evidence suggests that in more than half of the cases the security forces participated either directly or indirectly in the disappearances. HRW has called on the new government to find the missing.
• Grenada Opposition Wins Clean Sweep In General Election:
  Preliminary results of the general election on the Caribbean island of Grenada suggest a landslide win for the opposition New National Party (NNP). Election supervisors said the preliminary figures showed the NNP had won all 15 seats. The governing National Democratic Congress admitted defeat. If the results are confirmed, Keith Mitchell, who served three terms as prime minister between 1995 and 2008, will return to power. The main theme during the election was the economic crisis.
• Deepest Undersea Vents Discovered By UK Team:
  UK scientists exploring the ocean floor in the Caribbean have discovered an "astounding" set of hydrothermal vents, the deepest anywhere in the world. Deploying a remotely-operated vehicle (ROV) in the Cayman Trough, they stumbled across a previouslyunknown site nearly 5000m below the surface. Video pictures relayed live back to the research ship mounting the operation show spindly chimneys up to 10m high. They are belching out dark water - "a stunning sight", one scientist said. In the immense pressure of the sea three miles down, the ROV, known as ISIS, was gently steered around the vents, taking pictures and gathering samples.
• Investing In The Caribbean:
  By Joseph Doway Someone asked me this week, where are investors all flocking to certain islands or regions within the Caribbean, and neglecting others. My answer was simple. Kudos to the government and the people of those countries that accept change and development. As advisors to investors and developers of hotels and resorts in the 2006 to 2009 period, we were always asked to do studies on the destinations where these developments were to take place. Consistent and transparent policies hold the key to economic development of any country or island, which then help to boost its efforts to attract foreign investment.
• Haiti's 'Baby Doc' Duvalier Bids To Avoid Court:
  Haiti's former ruler has filed a last-minute appeal with the Supreme Court to avoid appearing in court on allegations of crimes against humanity. Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier was due to attend a hearing in the capital, Port-au Prince, on Thursday afternoon or face arrest. The ex-leader, who returned to Haiti in 2011 after 25 years in French exile, has already missed two hearings. He denies all charges, with his lawyers saying the case should be thrown out. Mr Duvalier's chief counsel, Reynold Georges, earlier told journalists that the ex-president would not attend Thursday's hearing.
• Hugo Chavez Returns To Venezuela After Cuba Cancer Care:
  Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has returned to the country after receiving treatment for cancer in Cuba. In three messages posted on Twitter, Mr Chavez, 58, thanked Cuban President and ex-leader Raul and Fidel Castro. He also thanked Venezuelans for their support and said he would continue treatment in his home country. He has been president for 14 years and was re-elected for another six-year term in October 2012, but his swearing-in was delayed because of his illness.
• India's Hyderabad Hit By Two Explosions:
  Two explosions have killed 12 people in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad, in what Prime Minister Manmohan Singh labelled as a "dastardly attack". The blasts that hit the city in Andhra Pradesh were 10 minutes apart, police said. Television images showed casualties being rushed to hospital. India's home minister said bombs had been planted on bicycles 150m (500ft) apart near a crowded fruit market. Major cities have been put on alert as police probe the cause for the blasts.
• China Cultural Revolution Murder Trial Sparks Debate:
  The trial in China of an elderly man accused of murder during the Cultural Revolution has sparked online debate. The man, reportedly in his 80s and surnamed Qiu, is accused of killing a doctor he believed was a spy. The Cultural Revolution, launched by Mao Zedong in 1966, was an era of violence against intellectuals and other alleged bourgeois elements. Some have questioned why one man is on trial so belatedly when so few officials have been brought to account.
• China's 'Leftover Women', Unmarried At 27:
  Over 27? Unmarried? Female? In China, you could be labelled a "leftover woman" by the state - but some professional Chinese women these days are happy being single. Huang Yuanyuan is working late at her job in a Beijing radio newsroom. She's also stressing out about the fact that the next day, she'll turn 29. "Scary. I'm one year older," she says. "I'm nervous." Why? "Because I'm still single. I have no boyfriend. I'm under big pressure to get married." Huang is a confident, personable young woman with a good salary, her own apartment, an MA from one of China's top universities, and a wealth of friends.
• Facts Related To Death Of 17 Year Old Of Toledo District:
  The Ministry of Health would like to state the medical findings in relation to the death of a seventeen year old female of Golden Stream Village, Toledo District. The patient first visited the Big Falls Health Center on March 19th, 2012 where she was treated for a chronic abdominal condition and released. She later returned to the clinic on March 22nd, 2012 where she was diagnosed with a chronic disorder. She received a blood transfusion at that time and was hospitalized for a week at the Punta Gorda Hospital for observation before release by her doctor.
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The March 3rd, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• The Low Key Appearance Of Bert Vasquez:
  In the absence of all the hype and public assembly in front of the police station in San Ignacio on the two previous occasions when Bert Vasquez, the accused murderer of Jasmine Lowe, appeared in San Ignacio court, his third appearance today went almost unnoticed. Is it a case of the public losing interest in the matter? Is it a case of the case gone cold? Can it be a case of the public forgetting the adjournment date? Can today's low key appearance of the accused murderer be attributed to the absence of policemen who crave the media and public spotlight resulting in neither the media nor the public being alerted of today's event?
• Businessman Busted With Undeclared Cash:
  A businessman from San Ignacio Town today pled guilty to the offence of failure to declare money in excess of the stipulated ten thousand Belize dollars A police report informs that Suresh Jaisinghnai was detained at the Phillip S.W Goldson International Airport after he was found in possession of nine thousand two hundred and seventy six thousand US dollars just as he was attempting to board an international flight.
• Jorge David Moro Dies In Car Crash:
  Relatives of a deceased taxi driver are today making arrangement to lay him to rest while they are still struggling to come to terms with the sudden change in their lives. The deceased Belizean taxi driver, , from San Ignacio, Cayo, was last seen by his wife Azucena shortly after 8:00 am on Tuesday, February 26 as he left home to transport their children to school. He reportedly departed from San Ignacio shortly thereafter on a regular charter trip eastward to Belize City to drop off a businessman.
• Amazing Voter Turnout In San Antonio Village:
  The almost 62% voter turnout in San Antonio Village for today's United Democratic Party convention to elect a candidate to contest the upcoming village council elections is nothing short of AMAZING!!! With 972 voters on the list for this village, a whopping 601 voters today made their way to the community center to cast their ballots. There was a steady stream of voters from the time the polling station was declared open at 9:00 am right up to closing time at 4:00 pm. The two candidates in the race were Rene Canto the incumbent chairman of the village and Cruz Mai, himself a former chairman of the village.
• Prohibiting Vehicular Traffic On Burn Avenue:
  A work crew from the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) was this week busy replacing all the plastic manhole covers with more durable metal ones on Burns Avenue in San Ignacio Town. The changing of manhole covers became necessary when several of them were broken due to the load of vehicular traffic on the carriageway. While the Town Council had initially announced that vehicular traffic would not be allowed to transit the area, it nonetheless began experimenting with allowing them to do so. The experiment has resulted in damages to the pavers. The Town Council is now contemplating to revert to the original plan of prohibiting vehicular traffic in the area.
• Mexico Union Leader Elba Esther Gordillo Arrested:
  Union head Elba Esther Gordillo, known as Mexico's most powerful woman, has been arrested on corruption charges. Ms Gordillo, who runs the 1.5 million-member Mexican teachers' union, is alleged to have embezzled more than $156m from union funds. No-one from her legal team has responded to the allegations, but in the past she has denied any wrongdoing. Her arrest came a day after the government enacted major reforms to the education system.
• Nation Builders Commits To Championing National Youth Policy:
  The Nation Builders national youth movement celebrates today's launching of the NationalYouth Policy, as it will further empower young people. Since the inception of our movement, almost a year ago, the National Youth Policy has been one of our key demands, as the lack of a comprehensive youth development strategy has been a major setback in the creation of an enabling environment for our young people to become fully productive citizens.
• Belizeans Must Become More Nationalistic To Save Their Country From Guatemala:
  The British landed in Belize in 1638 long before Guatemala ever dreamt of become a nation state and still Guatemala is claiming our country up to this day. Why? Because in the early part of Belize's history, the British had no intention of making Belize one of their colonies until 1862. If the British wanted to obtain Belize as their property, they had several opportunities when they signed treaties with Spain to make it their territory. This was done because the British settlers who lived in Belize loved the country and exerted pressure on the British to grant them colony status. Also, the settlers fought in the Battle of Saint George Cay on the 10thof September 1797 to drive the Spanish out of Belize. This day should have been the Independence Day for the country of Belize because of its significance in demonstrating our forefathers true nationalism when many of them died in defense of our homeland.
• St. Ignatius Students Expressing Their Views:
  I am a student attending St. Ignatius High School and I am concerned about the dramatic increase of unemployment in our country. This has been the highest recorded for the past fourteen years. As we face changing occurrences, our country can only become better and better or worse and worse. However, the extensive increase in unemployment only makes our nation worsen. Research shows that the main reason our population suffers from unemployment is because of lack of education combined with the advancement of technology.
• Pay The Boys:
  There is an issue that I thought should be addressed. Our Men's National Football Team - The Belize Jaguars - recently qualified to play in the Central American Gold cup. This is the first time we as a country have ever qualified for such a tournament and we are proud of the men for having achieved such a historical accomplishment for our country. Now, we also know that sports in this country doesn't pay, and I'm proposing to the government to pay our players a suitable sum of money for the next six months in order for them to train hard and not have to concentrate on their job and practice after work. It would only be for a short period of time. Our players need to train to get to their highest potential.
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The March 10th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Two Villagers Beaten In Separate Incidents In Unitedville:
  Two male persons have been detained as the search continues for another two comprising a group of four young men suspected to have attacked and injured two men in separate incidents in the western village of Unitedville on the George Price Highway in the Cayo District. In the first reported incident, Unitedville resident Rosa Macharro reported to the police that she was at home at around 8:30 pm on Sunday, March 3, 2013, when her husband, Miguel Macharro, arrived at home in a taxi from a trip to Guatemala City. The husband was reportedly unlocking the gate to enter the yard when he was approached by a group of four young men one of whom is said to have asked him for a dollar. He reportedly ignored the request and this was when he was allegedly attacked with sticks and a machete by the group.
• The UDP Getting Stronger And Stronger:
  As this year's round of village council elections draw nearer, the number of supporters seeking to contest these elections for the United Democratic Party (UDP) is growing exponentially. This new phenomenon has resulted in the Party having to conduct an unprecedented number of conventions across the country. Two recent such conventions were held over the past two consecutive weekends in the western villages of San Antonio in the Cayo Central Constituency and the other in the village of San Jose Succotz in the Cayo West Constituency. In the San Antonio convention which was held between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm on Sunday, February 24, an astonishing 601 villagers, of the 972 registered voters on the voters list for the village, flocked to the polls to cast their votes for one of two candidates seeking to contest the upcoming elections as the UDP Chairman candidate for their Village.
• First historic National Communication System installed:
  For the first time, the Ministry of Health has established a National Communications System to network with the Public health providers across the country. Enhanced communications have already been established between Northern Regional Hospital, Southern Regional Hospital and Central Health Region since its installation last month. This system will support real-time reporting and communication from incident site directly to the Emergency Operating Center (EOC) at the headquarters in Belmopan. It will also be useful during possible electricity downtime during disasters or emergencies.
• Third Cohort of Field Epidemiology Training Program commences:
  The Ministry of Health has commenced on the third cohort in a basic level course in Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) for participants including, Public Health Inspectors, Public Health Nurses, Laboratory Technicians and Medical officers of the Ministry and from the Belize Defence Force. Objectives of the program include building capacity for front line responders in the detection, surveillance, response, analysis and prevention associated with high priority public health problems.
• Nutrition Unit conducts training to improve Dietary Services at Hospitals:
  In an effort to improve on Dietary Services within the regional and district hospitals across the country, the Nutrition Unit of the Ministry hosted a Dietary training session at Southern Regional Hospital Kitchen with cooks, dietary aides and dietary supervisors to improve on the quality of food preparation in hospitals. During a short theory session, participants were educated on specialized diets and the importance of nutrition care and the quality of foods served at patients. A practical session was conducted in the preparation of nine commonly used recipes. These recipes included Corn, Oatmeal, Squash and Rice Porridges, whole wheat Johnny cakes and tortillas, soy milk and preparing herbal seasonings mixture.
• World Cancer Day 2013:
  A Cancer Symposium was held at the Bliss Center in observation of World Cancer Day celebrated globally February 4th. It was a night of facts, statistics and survivor's stories. In the Caribbean, Central and South America, cancer remains as the second leading cause of death. Dr, Francis Morey, National Tuberculosis Coordinator, at the Minstry was among the presenters featured that night at the symposium. He mentioned that in Belize more than 10% of annual deaths are related to cancer. During the 5 year period, 2007-2011, there were a total of 857 cancer deaths and almost half of these occurred in persons less than 65 years of age.
• PROTECT OUR RIVERS AND WATERSHEDS!!! WATER FOR LIFE, NOT FOR DEATH!:
  BELPO joins with groups from countries around the world in celebrating International Day of Action For Rivers on 14 March.The aim on this Day of Action for Rivers is to bring awareness about the importance of our rivers to our lives. BELPO's struggle against destructive dams and the current model of water and energy management is a struggle against a social order that puts profits before people. BELPO rejects the spread of dam projects that threaten our rivers and the downstream communities; BELPO rejects the promotion of intensive mineral and oil exploitation in our watersheds. Every year BELPO joins millions across the world to celebrate victories such as river restoration, dam removal and theprohibition of the building of dams. It is a day to educate one another about the threats facing our rivers, and learn about better water and energy solutions. Above all, it is a day to unite - by acting together, we demonstrate that these issues are not merely local, but global in scope.
• Relocation Of Gang Members:
  I am honoured to express my perspective, through your renowned newspaper, about the situation whereby the Government has decided to relocate some gang members of Belize City. As a concerned citizen of Belize, I hope to shed some light on the absurd distribution of numerous, dangerous gang members across our county. On January 8, 2013, a massacre was committed in the heart of a gang territory known as George Street. This unfortunate incident caused the citizens of Belize, especially Belize City, to become afraid assuming that the George Street Gang (GSG) would respond to this incident by terrorising civilians. As a result, the Government had a meeting with the gang members. Among all the solutions found to alleviate this situation, the one that struck me the most, was the idea of relocating gang members.
• Hugo Chavez's Body To Stay On Display In Venezuela:
  The body of the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is to be embalmed and put on display after his funeral, Vice-President Nicolas Maduro says. The decision reflects the huge crowds queuing to pay their respects in Caracas, where he is lying in state. Mr Chavez's body will be moved to a military museum after the state funeral on Friday, Mr Maduro said. Hugo Chavez, who led Venezuela for 14 years, died on Tuesday after a long battle with cancer. More than two million mourners have already filed past his body at the military academy in Caracas, queuing for hours to see him lying in state.
• Brazil's Bruno Fernandes Jailed Over Ex-lover's Murder:
  Brazilian football star Bruno Fernandes has been given a 22-year prison sentence for ordering the murder of a former girlfriend. He was also found guilty of hiding the body of Eliza Samudio and kidnapping their baby son in 2010. The ex-Flamengo goalkeeper admitted to knowing that Ms Samudio had been strangled and her remains fed to dogs, but denied ordering the killing. He said two other defendants in the case carried out the murder. The murder has attracted intense media interest in Brazil where it has been compared to the OJ Simpson trial in the US. Fernandes, who was hugely popular with fans, had been tipped to play for Brazil in the 2014 Fifa World Cup finals.
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora:
  It is difficult to put on paper the beauty of watching the sun rise over the ocean while heading out to sea for a day on the water. I have seen Belize's extensive biodiversity while snorkeling off of the cayes, including a variety of sharks and stingrays. The United States and Belize have long worked hand in hand to protect our natural heritage, especially in the sea. Sharks and manta rays are important to ocean ecosystems, and the United States is concerned about the conservation status of species that are increasingly affected by international trade. These species are all biologically vulnerable to overexploitation, as a long-lived, low productivity species. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is a valuable tool to address the threats posed by unsustainable global trade in shark and manta ray parts and products, including fins, meat, and gill plates.
• Carlos Slim Tops Forbes Rich List For Fourth Year:
  Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim has topped Forbes magazine's list of the world's richest billionaires for a fourth year. The magazine estimates that Mr Slim, whose business interests range from telecommunications to construction, is worth $73bn (�49bn). He is followed by Microsoft founder Bill Gates on $67bn. Famed investor Warren Buffett has dropped back to fourth place, with third spot going to Amancio Ortega, the founder of the Zara fashion chain. Record profits, and a resulting surge in the share price of the holding company Inditex that he owns, has propelled Mr Ortega from fifth place, leapfrogging Mr Buffett.
• Processed Meat 'Early Death' Link:
  Sausages, ham, bacon and other processed meats appear to increase the risk of dying young, a study of half a million people across Europe suggests. It concluded diets high in processed meats were linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer and early deaths. The researchers, writing in the journal BMC Medicine, said salt and chemicals used to preserve the meat may damage health. The British Heart Foundation suggested opting for leaner cuts of meat. The study followed people from 10 European countries for nearly 13 years on average. Lifestyle factors: It showed people who ate a lot of processed meat were also more likely to smoke, be obese and have other behaviours known to damage health. However, the researchers said even after those risk factors were accounted for, processed meat still damaged health.
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The March 17th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Police Kill Two Robbers:
  Preparations are being made for the burial of two young men who were reportedly shot by police as they fled the scene of a robbery in San Ignacio shortly after 12 noon on Tuesday, March 12, 2013. San Ignacio police reported receiving an emergency call via the 911 line of a robbery in progress at Roses Chinese Restaurant & Store located between miles 67 and 68 on the George Price Highway on the western outskirts of San Ignacio town. It is reported that a team of policemen rushed to the scene where in the area they came upon two male persons, one of whom was seen with a blue rag concealing his face while the other wore a black stocking over his face and toting a sawed-off shot gun.
• Fully Equipped Resource Center For Arenal Village:
  A spanking new resource center will soon be constructed in the western village of Arenal, Cayo. The fully furnished 30 x 60 feet building will be constructed at a cost of $250,000. The furnishings will include computer equipment and furniture. The building will be located in a spacious new area of the village alongside a new football field. Daniel Cano, Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund, informed that the design for the new building will be completed within the next two months. He told the gathered villagers that bids for construction will be invited thereafter. The building is expected to be completed before the end of this year.
• Cayo's Oscar Quiroz Is The Cyclist To Watch On Holy Saturday:
  Oscar Quiroz, the junior cyclist who has recently graduated into the major leagues will be the cyclist to watch in the March 30, Annual Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic. The rising young cycling star who participated in the Smart Belmopan Cycling Classic on March 10, shocked the crowd when he captured the top prize in the junior league category by crossing the finish line one minute and forty seconds ahead of the second place finisher. Quiroz has dominated the junior league since exploding onto the scene back in March 2010 when he competed in the Junior Cross Country Cycling Classic placing 9th in this prestigious race, an excellent feat by any standards for a first time rider.
• A New Basketball Court For St. Andrews Anglican Primary School:
  Thirteen students from Toronto District Christian High School in Canada arrived in Belize on March 5, 2013; sleeves raised and ready to work on constructing a new basketball court for St. Andrews Anglican Primary School in San Ignacio Town. Country coordinators Richard Zul and Lucille Sosa explained that works on the basketball court took a total of four days, which included preparation of the building site, laying stone ground work, and pouring of the concrete slab. During their spare time, members of the visiting team visited classrooms, entertained students, painted hopscotch on the cemented courtyard, leveled out the school grounds and prepared new garden beds.
• D'bi.Young Anitafrika performing live at the Bliss:
  The Institute of Creative Arts (ICA) and the Winsom Foundation in collaboration with Women's month presents for the first time in Belize, African-Jamaican- Canadian dubpoet, playwright, monodramatist and educator D'bi.Young Anitafrika. She is internationally celebrated as a visionary storyteller, a passionate humanist and a leader in the development of arts education. She will be performing one of her eight plays 'Blood Claat', specializing in what she terms biomyth monodrama, D'bi. writes one-person theatre plays comprised of music, poetry, dance, and drama that chronicle the stories of global peoples and our quests for self-actualization. She has recently completing her third global tour, performing and teaching, D'bi. has shared the stage with many renowned names such as legendary American poet Saul Williams, and world renowned singers Alicia Keys, Angelique Kidjo, Annie Lennox, and Sarah Maglachan.
• Pope Francis Warns Church Could Become 'Compassionate NGO':
  Pope Francis has warned the Catholic Church would become "a compassionate NGO" without spiritual renewal. In a Sistine Chapel Mass with cardinals on his first day as Church leader, the pontiff said: "If we do not confess to Christ, what would we be? "We would end up a compassionate NGO. What would happen would be like when children make sand castles and then it all falls down." Francis is the first Latin American - and the first Jesuit - Pope. The BBC's David Willey, in Rome, says the 76-year-old has already been swift to stamp his style on the papacy. Pope Francis is regarded as a doctrinal conservative, but he is also seen as a potential force for reform of the Vatican bureaucracy, analysts say.
• Early HIV Drugs 'Functionally Cure About One In Ten':
  Rapid treatment after HIV infection may be enough to "functionally cure" about a 10th of those diagnosed early, say researchers in France. They have been analysing 14 people who stopped therapy, but have since shown no signs of the virus resurging. It follows reports of a baby girl being effectively cured after very early treatment in the US. However, most people infected with HIV do not find out until the virus has fully infiltrated the body. The group of patients, known as the Visconti cohort, all started treatment within 10 weeks of being infected.
• China Confirms Li Keqiang As Premier:
  China's leaders have named Li Keqiang premier, placing him at the helm of the world's second-largest economy. Mr Li, who already holds the number two spot in the Communist Party, takes over from Wen Jiabao. Mr Li was elected for a five-year term but, like his predecessor, would be expected to spend a decade in office. On Thursday, Xi Jinping was confirmed by legislators as the new president, completing the transition of power from Hu Jintao. Li Keqiang's widely-signalled elevation was confirmed by 3,000 legislators at the National People's Congress, the annual parliament session, in Beijing, by 2,940 votes of 2,949 cast.
• Brazil Outrage Over Sao Paulo Cyclist's Lost Arm:
  A road collision in Brazil has caused outrage after police said a motorist drove off with a cyclist's severed arm attached to his vehicle. The driver, who later turned himself in, told Sao Paulo police that he had dumped the limb in a stream. The arm has not been recovered but doctors believe it could have been reattached, police told local media. The cyclist - a window-cleaner on his way to work - is said to be in a stable condition in hospital. The accident that saw the cyclist's arm torn off took place on Sunday morning on Avenida Paulista, one of Sao Paulo's busiest streets.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 24th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Convicted Guatemalan Man Vanishes:
  While San Ignacio police remained tight lipped, as has now become the rule rather than the exception, reliable reports reaching us indicate that a gun charged convicted Guatemalan man disappeared from the cell block in the middle of the evening hours on Monday, March 18, 2013. The embarrassing incident is being kept hush hush as no one is saying anything not even if any of the cameras in the area of the cell block captured the escape as it unfolded. Reports are that Walter Leonel Boteo Ralda, 22, Guatemalan male of a Belize Central Prison address in Hattieville where he is spending a five year sentence on a firearm possession charge, was brought from prison on the Monday morning run although he was not slated to appear in court, on other charges, until the following day, Tuesday, March 19, 2013.
• Three Small Weed Trees In Blackman Eddy Village:
  San Ignacio police returned to their base station with three five inch marijuana plants, the product of an early Saturday morning anti-drug operations in Blackman Eddy Village on the George Price Highway. Police reports that during the early morning hours on Saturday, March 16, whilst on an anti-drug operation, they visited the Blackman Eddy Village home of Henry Gordon. Present at the time were Gordon and his common-law-wife. A detailed search of the house produced nothing of an incriminating nature. The search continued outside the house where, in the yard near an outhouse the police is said to have found a plastic vase filled with earth in the middle of which stood a 5 inch suspected marijuana plant.
• Hon. Rene Montero Working For Cayo Central:
  Keeping true to his promise to address the needs of his constituency, Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Rene Montero has undertaken the refurbishment of the basketball court in Santa Elena. Minister Montero informed that this latest project will entail a total transformation of this important sporting facility in Santa Elena. "The works," explained Minister "encompasses the replacement of the perimeter fence, the filling of the grounds around the court, behind and between the bleachers, the bathrooms and the vending house as well as the construction of a cement walkway linking the court to the nearby Carmen Street"
• Medical Training For San Ignacio Hospital Staff:
  A group of forty members of staff of the San Ignacio Community Hospital today participated in a basic life support training seminar conducted by members of the Belize Emergency Response Team (BERT). Dr. Misael Ramirez, medical chief of staff at the San Ignacio Community Hospital, informed that the one day basic life support training involved the participation of several departments of the hospital including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, drivers, dentists and dental assistants. The overall goal of the training said Dr, Ramirez, is to ensure that each member of staff can identify and assist the general public with basic life support techniques which may prove invaluable in times of emergency.
• Bullet Tree Family Fun Day:
  The Bullet Tree Neighbourhood Committee will be having it first family fun day on March 23th 2013 at bullett tree football field. PC. Jason Jones informs that the "main purpose of this funfilled day is for the bullett tree committee to raise much needed funds and also to bring the residents of the village together and enjoy a day full of fun for the entire family". There will be lots to eat and drink. Come and bring the whole family and support the Bullet Tree Neighborhood watch committee.
• Thank You, Pallotine Sisters:
  With very grateful hearts and nostalgic memories, we have begun the celebrations marking the one hundred years of service by the Pallotine Sisters to the people and country of Belize. It was on June 2, 1921 that the first four Pallotines arrived in San Ignacio, known then as El Cayo. These four German nationals were Sisters Dominica, Radigundis, Sebastiana and Veronica. They had left their families, homes and country to serve us, mainly as teachers in our primary schools of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Over the years, these four pioneers were joined and succeeded by others, including our own Belizean Pallotines. Hundreds of us - our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters, our aunts and uncles, our cousins and friends, our own parents and grandparents - were touched by the positive influence of these committed followers of Vincent Pallotti. And they knew so much!
• Launch of BRDP II Project, "Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites":
  The Belize Tourism Board, along with the National Institute of Culture and History, are proud to announce the launch of a European Union s upported Action entitled, "Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites." The launch took place at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20th, 2013, at the House of Culture in Belize City. The BTB received a grant from the European Union in November 2012, for BZ$2.75m for a project with a total estimated cost of $4 million BZD. The project, scheduled to be implemented over 24 months, seeks to improve economic opportunities in rural communities and contribute to the reduction of poverty by enhancing the overall tourism experience through improvements to tourism infrastructure and the services offered. The tourism experience will be enhanced at the archaeological sites of Xunantunich, Barton Creek, Actun Tunichil Muknal, Caves Branch, Altun Ha, Lamanai, Nim Li Punit, Lubaantun, and Blue Creek.
• Rotary Convention Held In San Ignacio:
  Recently 245 Rotarians, from as far away as Canada, the U.S.A. and Panama and as close as Belize converged on San Ignacio to celebrate the 18th Rotary International Conference of Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. This prestigious four day event which takes place every third year in Belize, was the foremost Rotary event of the year. This yearly Rotary International Conference has always been held in a major city of the host country i.e., in Guatemala it is always held in Guatemala City, in Honduras it alternates between Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, and in Belize-Belize City. However, this year's District Governor, Andre Lopez, chose to break tradition and hold the Conference in his home town of San Ignacio.
• Grandparents 'May Relay Autism Risk To Grandchildren':
  The risk of developing autism may be passed on through - and not just to - future generations, researchers say. The international study suggests older fathers are more likely to have grandchildren with autism than their younger counterparts. The mechanism is unclear but it is thought they may transmit "silent mutations" to their grandchildren. But experts have urged caution, stressing autism is the result of many different factors. The study, looking at almost 6,000 people with the condition, is published in the journal Jama Psychiatry. According to the National Autistic Society, more than one in every 100 people in the UK have the condition. Previous studies suggested older fathers may be at greater risk of having children with autism than younger dads.
• International Red Carpet Affair Caribbean Style:
  This year's International Red Carpet Affair Caribbean Style will be an exciting one, and most anticipated event for year. It's set to one of the best!!! there is a star lineup with some of the most influential individual from Belize that has done some outstanding jobs through-out the years both in US and back home. They have served on committee's and have been supporting several organization in Belize and the United States. The event will be held at the Hollywood Park Casino on April 20th 2013. It's the 3rd annual and is sure to be on of the best event for 2013. The night will start off with a Waltz and Return of the Mac contest followed by the Life time Achievement Award presentation. Those receiving awards that night will be Prof. Drummonds, Mr. Jose Moreno, Mr. Ray Gongora, Mrs. Martha Martinez, Mr.Ellis Cayatano, Mr Fred Dixxon, Mr.Harry Shaw Sr., Pelle Ellis, Guwie Posse and Daddy Tracey.
• Guatemala Ex-ruler Rios Montt On Trial For Genocide:
  The trial of the former military ruler of Guatemala, Efrain Rios Montt, for genocide and crimes against humanity has begun in Guatemala City. During Mr Rios Montt's 17-month rule in the 1980s, more than 1,700 indigenous people are thought to have been killed. The UN says it is the first time a former head of state has faced a national court for such crimes - rights activists say the trial is "historic". The former general denies the charges. The trial is expected to last months. Shortly before the start of the trial, the defence team of 86-year old was replaced. His new lawyers filed motions which could have delayed the proceedings, but were rejected by the court. Gen Rios Montt faces charges of crimes against humanity in connection with the killing of 1,771 indigenous Mayans during his rule in 1982-1983.
• World Rotaract Week 2013:
  Rotaract - AWay of Life! From March 11-17, 2013, Rotaract Clubs around the world celebrated World Rotaract Week 2013 in commemoration of the first Rotaract Club that was chartered on March 13, 1968. The Rotaract Club of San Ignacio planned a week's worth of activities in lieu of this grand event. These included the launching of the Club's official logo, presentations on recent projects from the Rotary &Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio, a quiz night for club members and community service projects. The Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio embarked on a joint Gift (Food) Baskets Project that was carried out on Saturday, March 16, 2013 in Benque. In collaboration with the Help Age Center and Mount Carmel Primary School in Benque Viejo, the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio partnered together, and went from home to home distributing the 20 food baskets to the elderly, single mothers and other deserving families. Part 2 of this project will take place in Santa Elena Town.
• Pope Francis In Plea For Poor As Inauguration Mass Held:
  Pope Francis has inaugurated his papacy at a Mass in Rome, calling on global leaders and all the people of the world to defend the poor and the weak. Up to 200,000 people attended the Mass in St Peter's Square. His homily focused on protection - of the environment, children, the elderly and those in need, who he said were "often the last we think about". Francis was elected by a conclave of cardinals last week to take over from Benedict XVI. Benedict became the first pontiff in 600 years to abdicate last month. Citing his age, 85, he said he could no longer continue in the post.
• The ICJ Referendum Appears To Be Dead In The Water:
  In remarks delivered Wednesday evening at the George Washington University's Ambassador Series forum in Washington, DC, Belizean Ambassador to the U.S. and O.A.S., Nestor Mendez, made clear that the Belizean government is "frustrated" and "upset" with recent actions by the Guatemalan government. His comments and answers to questions from the audience indicate the whole ICJ referendum process is now in serious jeopardy. Furthermore, Belize clearly feels while it has acted in good faith, the Guatemalans have let them down and even disrespected them during this last week in particular. I've known Ambassador Mendez for several years now and the always unflappable diplomat showed clear signs of frustration and even said at one point, "I'm sorry if I seem upset but it's not the first time our neighbors have bowed out. It's not helpful." This was a special night for the Ambassador as he returned to his alma mater to deliver an address at one of the George Washington University's most distinguished forums.
• What Will Happen If Belizeans Vote Against Going To The ICJ:
  By: Wellington C. Ramos If the people of Belize vote "NO" to take the Guatemalan dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), then the agreement signed between Guatemala and Belize will be fulfilled. This will also happen if the people of Guatemala were to vote "NO" in their Referendum which is scheduled to take place simultaneously in both countries on October 6, 2013. I have read carefully the Anglo-Guatemalan Treaty signed between Great Britain and Guatemala in 1859 and based on that I am fully confident that the court will rule in favor of Belize. In this treaty Guatemala accepted and acknowledged the boundaries of Belize which exist up to this day. If the Government of Guatemala did not like anything that was contained in that document then they should not have signed it.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial:
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 24th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Convicted Guatemalan Man Vanishes:
  While San Ignacio police remained tight lipped, as has now become the rule rather than the exception, reliable reports reaching us indicate that a gun charged convicted Guatemalan man disappeared from the cell block in the middle of the evening hours on Monday, March 18, 2013. The embarrassing incident is being kept hush hush as no one is saying anything not even if any of the cameras in the area of the cell block captured the escape as it unfolded. Reports are that Walter Leonel Boteo Ralda, 22, Guatemalan male of a Belize Central Prison address in Hattieville where he is spending a five year sentence on a firearm possession charge, was brought from prison on the Monday morning run although he was not slated to appear in court, on other charges, until the following day, Tuesday, March 19, 2013.
• Three Small Weed Trees In Blackman Eddy Village:
  San Ignacio police returned to their base station with three five inch marijuana plants, the product of an early Saturday morning anti-drug operations in Blackman Eddy Village on the George Price Highway. Police reports that during the early morning hours on Saturday, March 16, whilst on an anti-drug operation, they visited the Blackman Eddy Village home of Henry Gordon. Present at the time were Gordon and his common-law-wife. A detailed search of the house produced nothing of an incriminating nature. The search continued outside the house where, in the yard near an outhouse the police is said to have found a plastic vase filled with earth in the middle of which stood a 5 inch suspected marijuana plant.
• Hon. Rene Montero Working For Cayo Central:
  Keeping true to his promise to address the needs of his constituency, Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Rene Montero has undertaken the refurbishment of the basketball court in Santa Elena. Minister Montero informed that this latest project will entail a total transformation of this important sporting facility in Santa Elena. "The works," explained Minister "encompasses the replacement of the perimeter fence, the filling of the grounds around the court, behind and between the bleachers, the bathrooms and the vending house as well as the construction of a cement walkway linking the court to the nearby Carmen Street"
• Medical Training For San Ignacio Hospital Staff:
  A group of forty members of staff of the San Ignacio Community Hospital today participated in a basic life support training seminar conducted by members of the Belize Emergency Response Team (BERT). Dr. Misael Ramirez, medical chief of staff at the San Ignacio Community Hospital, informed that the one day basic life support training involved the participation of several departments of the hospital including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab technicians, drivers, dentists and dental assistants. The overall goal of the training said Dr, Ramirez, is to ensure that each member of staff can identify and assist the general public with basic life support techniques which may prove invaluable in times of emergency.
• Bullet Tree Family Fun Day:
  The Bullet Tree Neighbourhood Committee will be having it first family fun day on March 23th 2013 at bullett tree football field. PC. Jason Jones informs that the "main purpose of this funfilled day is for the bullett tree committee to raise much needed funds and also to bring the residents of the village together and enjoy a day full of fun for the entire family". There will be lots to eat and drink. Come and bring the whole family and support the Bullet Tree Neighborhood watch committee.
• Thank You, Pallotine Sisters:
  With very grateful hearts and nostalgic memories, we have begun the celebrations marking the one hundred years of service by the Pallotine Sisters to the people and country of Belize. It was on June 2, 1921 that the first four Pallotines arrived in San Ignacio, known then as El Cayo. These four German nationals were Sisters Dominica, Radigundis, Sebastiana and Veronica. They had left their families, homes and country to serve us, mainly as teachers in our primary schools of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Over the years, these four pioneers were joined and succeeded by others, including our own Belizean Pallotines. Hundreds of us - our sons and daughters, our brothers and sisters, our aunts and uncles, our cousins and friends, our own parents and grandparents - were touched by the positive influence of these committed followers of Vincent Pallotti. And they knew so much!
• Launch of BRDP II Project, "Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites":
  The Belize Tourism Board, along with the National Institute of Culture and History, are proud to announce the launch of a European Union s upported Action entitled, "Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites." The launch took place at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 20th, 2013, at the House of Culture in Belize City. The BTB received a grant from the European Union in November 2012, for BZ$2.75m for a project with a total estimated cost of $4 million BZD. The project, scheduled to be implemented over 24 months, seeks to improve economic opportunities in rural communities and contribute to the reduction of poverty by enhancing the overall tourism experience through improvements to tourism infrastructure and the services offered. The tourism experience will be enhanced at the archaeological sites of Xunantunich, Barton Creek, Actun Tunichil Muknal, Caves Branch, Altun Ha, Lamanai, Nim Li Punit, Lubaantun, and Blue Creek.
• Rotary Convention Held In San Ignacio:
  Recently 245 Rotarians, from as far away as Canada, the U.S.A. and Panama and as close as Belize converged on San Ignacio to celebrate the 18th Rotary International Conference of Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. This prestigious four day event which takes place every third year in Belize, was the foremost Rotary event of the year. This yearly Rotary International Conference has always been held in a major city of the host country i.e., in Guatemala it is always held in Guatemala City, in Honduras it alternates between Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, and in Belize-Belize City. However, this year's District Governor, Andre Lopez, chose to break tradition and hold the Conference in his home town of San Ignacio.
• Grandparents 'May Relay Autism Risk To Grandchildren':
  The risk of developing autism may be passed on through - and not just to - future generations, researchers say. The international study suggests older fathers are more likely to have grandchildren with autism than their younger counterparts. The mechanism is unclear but it is thought they may transmit "silent mutations" to their grandchildren. But experts have urged caution, stressing autism is the result of many different factors. The study, looking at almost 6,000 people with the condition, is published in the journal Jama Psychiatry. According to the National Autistic Society, more than one in every 100 people in the UK have the condition. Previous studies suggested older fathers may be at greater risk of having children with autism than younger dads.
• International Red Carpet Affair Caribbean Style:
  This year's International Red Carpet Affair Caribbean Style will be an exciting one, and most anticipated event for year. It's set to one of the best!!! there is a star lineup with some of the most influential individual from Belize that has done some outstanding jobs through-out the years both in US and back home. They have served on committee's and have been supporting several organization in Belize and the United States. The event will be held at the Hollywood Park Casino on April 20th 2013. It's the 3rd annual and is sure to be on of the best event for 2013. The night will start off with a Waltz and Return of the Mac contest followed by the Life time Achievement Award presentation. Those receiving awards that night will be Prof. Drummonds, Mr. Jose Moreno, Mr. Ray Gongora, Mrs. Martha Martinez, Mr.Ellis Cayatano, Mr Fred Dixxon, Mr.Harry Shaw Sr., Pelle Ellis, Guwie Posse and Daddy Tracey.
• Guatemala Ex-ruler Rios Montt On Trial For Genocide:
  The trial of the former military ruler of Guatemala, Efrain Rios Montt, for genocide and crimes against humanity has begun in Guatemala City. During Mr Rios Montt's 17-month rule in the 1980s, more than 1,700 indigenous people are thought to have been killed. The UN says it is the first time a former head of state has faced a national court for such crimes - rights activists say the trial is "historic". The former general denies the charges. The trial is expected to last months. Shortly before the start of the trial, the defence team of 86-year old was replaced. His new lawyers filed motions which could have delayed the proceedings, but were rejected by the court. Gen Rios Montt faces charges of crimes against humanity in connection with the killing of 1,771 indigenous Mayans during his rule in 1982-1983.
• World Rotaract Week 2013:
  Rotaract - AWay of Life! From March 11-17, 2013, Rotaract Clubs around the world celebrated World Rotaract Week 2013 in commemoration of the first Rotaract Club that was chartered on March 13, 1968. The Rotaract Club of San Ignacio planned a week's worth of activities in lieu of this grand event. These included the launching of the Club's official logo, presentations on recent projects from the Rotary &Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio, a quiz night for club members and community service projects. The Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio embarked on a joint Gift (Food) Baskets Project that was carried out on Saturday, March 16, 2013 in Benque. In collaboration with the Help Age Center and Mount Carmel Primary School in Benque Viejo, the Rotary and Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio partnered together, and went from home to home distributing the 20 food baskets to the elderly, single mothers and other deserving families. Part 2 of this project will take place in Santa Elena Town.
• Pope Francis In Plea For Poor As Inauguration Mass Held:
  Pope Francis has inaugurated his papacy at a Mass in Rome, calling on global leaders and all the people of the world to defend the poor and the weak. Up to 200,000 people attended the Mass in St Peter's Square. His homily focused on protection - of the environment, children, the elderly and those in need, who he said were "often the last we think about". Francis was elected by a conclave of cardinals last week to take over from Benedict XVI. Benedict became the first pontiff in 600 years to abdicate last month. Citing his age, 85, he said he could no longer continue in the post.
• The ICJ Referendum Appears To Be Dead In The Water:
  In remarks delivered Wednesday evening at the George Washington University's Ambassador Series forum in Washington, DC, Belizean Ambassador to the U.S. and O.A.S., Nestor Mendez, made clear that the Belizean government is "frustrated" and "upset" with recent actions by the Guatemalan government. His comments and answers to questions from the audience indicate the whole ICJ referendum process is now in serious jeopardy. Furthermore, Belize clearly feels while it has acted in good faith, the Guatemalans have let them down and even disrespected them during this last week in particular. I've known Ambassador Mendez for several years now and the always unflappable diplomat showed clear signs of frustration and even said at one point, "I'm sorry if I seem upset but it's not the first time our neighbors have bowed out. It's not helpful." This was a special night for the Ambassador as he returned to his alma mater to deliver an address at one of the George Washington University's most distinguished forums.
• What Will Happen If Belizeans Vote Against Going To The ICJ:
  By: Wellington C. Ramos If the people of Belize vote "NO" to take the Guatemalan dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), then the agreement signed between Guatemala and Belize will be fulfilled. This will also happen if the people of Guatemala were to vote "NO" in their Referendum which is scheduled to take place simultaneously in both countries on October 6, 2013. I have read carefully the Anglo-Guatemalan Treaty signed between Great Britain and Guatemala in 1859 and based on that I am fully confident that the court will rule in favor of Belize. In this treaty Guatemala accepted and acknowledged the boundaries of Belize which exist up to this day. If the Government of Guatemala did not like anything that was contained in that document then they should not have signed it.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 31st, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Zamir Guerra Makes Us All Proud:
  Santa Elena's 16 year old Zamir Guerra of Cayo High Road Cycling Team shattered the record to be crowned the new Junior Cross Country Cycling champion of Belize. With 19 riders participating, the 14th Annual Junior Cross Country Cycling Classic got underway at 9:00 am on Sunday March 24, from the village of San Jose Succotz on the George Price Highway for the 72 mile ride to the finish line at Leslie's Imports, mile one just outside Belize City. Guerra completed the race in three hours, 34 minutes and 38 seconds leaving the chase group a whopping 12 minutes behind and in the process crushing the record set six years ago by Byron Pope. Although he is young in age, Guerra has been riding for the past four years competing in other youth races. This is however, his first time in the Junior Cross Country Classic.
• Roni Banos Crowned Best Reggaeton Artist in Belize:
  Good things have been happening in Santa Elena, Cayo: The reigning Cross Country Champion comes from Santa Elena; The current Junior Cross Country Champion hails from Santa Elena and the Reggaeton Superstar also comes�.. you got that right ��..from Santa Elena. The circle would have been complete if only our Dream Marching Band would have been, last Saturday, crowned Band Fest be competed if we recapture the garland in this Holy Saturday's Cross Country Classic. Santa Elena's Reggaeton superstar Roni Banos has been crowned the 2013 Best Reggaeton Artist at the third annual Belize Music Awards held on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at the Bliss Center for the performing arts in Belize City.
• Two Alleged Rapists Continue In Uniform:
  The news began spreading like wild fire on Sunday morning of the Saturday night brutal raping, by two policemen, of a woman from Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo. Given the implications of the grave betrayal of the public trust, we moved swiftly to check into this matter and found that such a report indeed existed. There was also the simultaneous indication of the attempt to cover up the allegation at the highest local level of the police in San Ignacio. The incident began at around 4:00 pm when a first report was received at the Bullet Tree substation which is manned by elements of the Special Patrol Unit on weekly and sometimes bi-weekly rotation mostly for the purposes of anti drugs and anti contraband activities from across the border in the Peten Area of Guatemala.
• Left at the Altar�Again?:
  Contributed by: Karla Heusner. I don't know about you, but there seems to be a real sense of deja-vu in the latest communication from the Guatemalan government regarding the long-standing territorial claim. Despite their previous bravado about being more than willing to take the issue to the International Court of Justice, it seems they are reverting-once more-to their previous pattern of stalling, postponing, and giving every excuse they can come up with to keep from participating in the agreed-to referendum in October. Yes, my friends, we have on our hands, once more, a runaway groom� The most recent proposals from the Guatemalans shared with us by the Honorable Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Foreign Affairs, have done little to improve my confidence in Guatemala's good faith stance. As of this writing, their latest proposals ask Belize to change our referendum law to require a simple majority vote, and then they would agree to honor the agreement to hold the referenda simultaneously. Their second proposal is that they would wait and see if our people vote "Yes," then they would hold their referendum.
• Ambergris Caye Wins 2013 Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Islands Award:
  Ambergris Caye as the top recipient of the TripAdvisor® Travelers' Choice® Islands awards. These awards honor top islands around the world, based entirely on the millions of valuable reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers. In total, more than 100 winning islands were named across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, South America, South Pacific and the U.S. Honourable Manuel Heredia, Minister of Tourism and Culture, said, "We are delighted that Ambergris Caye of Belize has been recognized as the world's top island in the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Islands awards. We would like to thank all the travelers who have made this win possible, simply by sharing their love of Ambergris Caye with the TripAdvisor travel community. We look forward to welcoming more visitors to our paradise this year and beyond."
• Leave The Rest To God:
  Submitted By: Ernestine Patnett. This is a beautiful and touching story of love and perseverance. Well worth the read. At the prodding of my friends I am writing this story. My name is Mildred Honor and I am a former elementary school music teacher from Des Moines, Iowa, USA. I have always supplemented my income by teaching piano lessons - something I have done for over 30 years. During those years I found that children have many levels of musical ability, and even though I have never had the pleasure of having a prodigy, I have taught some very talented students.
• Belize Rejects Guatemalan Proposals:
  The Government of Belize, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today informed that after having reviewed the proposals by the Republic of Guatemala as presented in writing on 17th March, 2013 to Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Jose Miguel Insulza, for the parties to consider postponement of the referenda for an indefinite period or for Belize to proceed on its own to hold a referendum on the agreed date, has decided to reject the Guatemalan proposals in their entirety. The Government of Belize notes that tremendous efforts over many years and through successive administrations have been spent in finding a negotiated solution that would bring to a definitive end Guatemala's unfounded claim to Belize, and that the failure of these attempts is what led to the signing of the Special Agreement by Belize, Guatemala and the OAS on 8th December, 2008.
• Colombian Police Seize Cocaine Stashed In Bricks:
  Police in Colombia say they have seized half a tonne of cocaine hidden in a shipment of bricks. Officers said the drugs had a value of $1.7m (�1.1m) - and were intended for the US. The cocaine was found stashed inside the cargo in the Colombian port city of Cartagena. Police are investigating the construction firm behind the shipment, which they suspect was set up solely for the purpose of smuggling drugs. The shipment was destined for Honduras, from where police believe the cocaine would have been smuggled to the United States.
• Mexico Uncovers Ancient Pelota Courts At Tajin Site:
  Archaeologists in Mexico say they have uncovered three ancient playing fields at a pre-Hispanic site in the eastern state of Veracruz. They found the courts, dating back some 1,000 years, at the Tajin World Heritage site by using laser scanners. They believe the fields would have been used to play pelota, a game in which players used their hips to propel a rubber ball through stone hoops. The sport was widely played by Mayan and other pre-Columbian people. Experts from the National Institute for Anthropology and History (INAH) said the use of aerial photography, remote sensors and laser scanners had made it possible to find the ancient structures, hidden by layers of soil and dense vegetation.
• Tv Time 'Does Not Breed Badly Behaved Children':
  Spending hours watching TV or playing computer games each day does not harm young children's social development, say experts. The Medical Research Council (MRC) team who studied more than 11,000 primary school pupils says it is wrong to link bad behaviour to TV viewing. Although researchers found a small correlation between the two, they say other influences, such as parenting styles, most probably explain the link. But they still say "limit screen time". This cautionary advice is because spending lots of time in front of the TV every day might reduce how much time a child spends doing other important activities such as playing with friends and doing homework, they say.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 7th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three Months Remand For Accused Drug Traffickers:
  Wednesday, April 3, 2013: Three men busted with weed in Benque Viejo, Cayo, have all been remanded to the big jail in Hattieville. Venturing into the jurisdiction of Benque Viejo police, and acting on information received, a team of policemen from the San Ignacio police detachment rushed into Benque Viejo Town today where at the entrance to George Price Boulevard, they intercepted a white Chevy Malibu car with license plates BZE C-34685 departing Benque Viejo heading eastward to San Ignacio some time around 6:30 pm. The vehicle was stopped and a thorough search of its interior produced nothing incriminating. The police however observed the single back seat passenger in possession of a blue and red bag which, when searched in his presence, was found to contain five black plastic bags tightly wrapped with transparent tape.
• Policeman Remains In Critical Condition:
  An African American woman is currently on remand at the central prison following a traffic accident involving a motor cycle riding policeman. The police informs that at around 3:30 pm on Tuesday, April 2, police constable #1213, Andy Tun, currently attached to the police substation in San Antonio Village, Cayo, was riding the police green and black, Kawasaki brand motorcycle on Center Road in Spanish Lookout when he collided in the mid section of a blue Ford F350 pickup truck, with license plates CY-C-27525, driven by Gail Wells, who allegedly drove onto the main road directly into the pathway of the approaching motorcycling cop. It is reported that the policeman received head and body injuries and was rushed to the emergency ward at the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan. He was later transferred to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City where he remains in critical condition.
• Guatemalan Farmer Busted With Gun And Bullets:
  A Guatemalan farmer alleged to have entered Belize illegally was today stopped at a checkpoint and found in possession of a pistol and seven bullets. The incident reportedly occurred at around 8:30 am on Wednesday, April 3, 2013 at a check point on the eastern outskirts of the village of San Jose Succtoz, between miles 71 and 72 on the George Price Highway. Benque Viejo police informed that a taxi cab heading towards San Ignacio, with a single male passenger on board, approached the check point and a search of the passenger resulted in the discovery of a .22 caliber pistol, brand unknown, along with seven live rounds of .25 Aguila brand ammunition.
• Good Neighbors Prevent Burglary:
  A serial burglar, caught in the act of attempting to break into a house, has been taken off the streets thanks to the assistance of alert neighbors in Santa Elena Town, Cayo. Dorothy Garbutt, 68, Belizean retired teacher of #2 Melhado Street in Santa Elena, reported to police that on Wednesday, March 27, 2013, at about 5:00 pm while at a bus stop in Santa Elena she was alerted by relatives of the report of a man attempting to break into her house. Garbutt rushed home where she encountered the police putting the suspect in the back of the pickup truck as alert neighbors prevented from him from breaking into her house and held him until the police arrived. The suspect Eric Castillo, 39, Belizean laborer of a Santa Cruz address in Santa Elena town was transported to the police station in San Ignacio where he was arrested and formally charged for attempt burglary.
• San Ignacio & Santa Elena Town Council Revenue And Expenditure For February 2013:
  Property Tax Fee Trade Licensing Fee Traffic License's Fees Peddler's Fees Liquor Licensing Fees liquor Liensing Extension Cemetery Fees Commercial Garbage Fees Banners & billboards Market Restroom Fee Rental of Market Stalls Miscellaneous Rental of Parks & Playgrounds Interest & Staff Loan Cayo Welcome Center Town Revenue
• Octavia Waight Making Life More Comfort For The Elderly:
  Residents from San Ignacio's Octavia Waight Center for the Elderly were today treated to the annual riverside picnic. Ophelia Pinelo, an employee of the Center informed that today's picnic is an annual tradition of the Center which has been ongoing for over 10 years. She additionally informed that, over the years residents have been taken on visits to various parts of the Cayo District. Twenty five center residents participated in today's field trip which included a fun day of relaxation along the banks of the Macal River. Residents were also treated snacks and lunch all provided by the center.
• Mexico thwarts 'plot to kill' Monreal brothers:
  The authorities in Mexico say they have prevented the murder of two l eftist legislators, brothers David and Ricardo Monreal. A senior prosecutor said two armed men plotting the murder had been arrested at a hotel in Mexico City. Mariana Benitez said the authorities had seized weapons, communications equipment and a vehicle. No motive was given for the planned attack but the men had already confessed, she added.
• Man Accused Of Harming Step-Son:
  A Santa Elena man is out on a two thousand dollar bail as he stands accused of causing grievous harm to his step-son. On Thursday, March 28, 2013, Myner Manzanero, 23, Belizean student, residing in the Bradley's Bank area of Santa Elena Town, visited the police station in San Ignacio where he reported that at about 5:30 pm on said date, he was at home when he and his step-father, Orlando Borallos, reportedly got into a heated argument . The complainant told the police that the step-father punched him to the left side of the face, causing him to stumble out of the house. The complainant further alleged that as he regained composure the step father continued punching him in the face and in the process drawing blood.
• Cuban Ballet Dancers Defect While On Tour In Mexico:
  Seven members of the National Ballet of Cuba defected during a performing tour of Mexico last month. A ballet spokesman confirmed the news, saying only that they had not returned at the end of the tour. The world-renowned troupe, led by legendary ballerina Alicia Alonso, has been hit by defections before. A Cuban exile website based in Miami said six of the defectors were now in the United States, while the seventh was still in Mexico. The head of Havana's National Ballet School, where some of them had studied, expressed her sadness at the news.
• Argentina Floods 'Catastrophe' For La Plata, Buenos Aires:
  Emergency workers in Argentina continue to try to rescue residents stranded by flooding in Buenos Aires and La Plata. More than 50 people are known to have died after one of the heaviest storms recorded caused flash floods. Thousands were evacuated from their homes and dozens are still stranded on rooftops, treetops and the roofs of city buses, local media report. The government has declared three days of national mourning after what it called "an unprecedented catastrophe". "We've never seen anything like it," provincial governor Daniel Scioli said. "People were taken by surprise, and some didn't have time to escape this deadly trap," Mr Scioli said, referring to the speed with which the waters rose.
• Male Baldness 'Indicates Heart Risk':
  Men going thin on top may be more likely to have heart problems than their friends with a full head of hair, according to researchers in Japan. Their study of nearly 37,000 people, published in the online journal BMJ Open, said balding men were 32% more likely to have coronary heart disease. However, the researchers said the risks were less than for smoking or obesity. The British Heart Foundation said men should focus on their waistline, not their hairline. A shifting hairline is a fact of life for many men. Half have thinning hair by their 50s and 80% have some hair loss by the age of 70.
• Body's Anti-HIV 'Training Manual' Offers Vaccine Hopes:
  The body's own "training manual" for attacking HIV has been recorded by US scientists and it is hoped it can be used to design vaccines. HIV mutates in order to survive the onslaught of a patient's immune system. However, some patients develop highly effective antibodies that can neutralise huge swathes of HIV mutants. A North Carolina team analysed the arms race between body and virus, published in the journal Nature, and has shown how these antibodies are made.
• Youths Who Murdered Mexican Activist Chavez Sentenced:
  A judge in Mexico has sentenced three youths to 15 years in prison for the 2011 murder of Mexican activist Susana Chavez. Ms Chavez was found strangled and with one hand cut off in Ciudad Juarez. She had been a key figure in the community, drawing attention to the killing of mainly poor women in the northern border town in the 1990s. She had coined the slogan "Not One More Death", which became popular at protests against the women's killings. Police found her body dumped in the city centre on 6 January 2011. A trail of blood led them to the home of Sergio Ruben Cardenas, where they found more blood and the severed hand of Ms Chavez.
• Pact Awards Over $800,000 In Project Grants!:
  On Thursday, April 4, 2013, PACT held a Grant Award Ceremony at the Guanacaste National Park in Belmopan, during which it awarded over $800,000.00 in new project grants! PACT awarded Small and Medium-Sized Grants for projects under the themes of Protected Areas Management and Conservation, Protected Areas Promotion and Development, and Environmental Education and Awareness as follows: PACT is confident that these grants will have great impacts on conservation in Belize and thanks all recipients for their hard work and commitment to their respective protected areas.
• Four Reports Against The Police:
  Reference report of extortion made by Ms. Anna Mae Nembhard on Thursday 28th March 2013. On Thursday 4th April 2013, at 4:10 pm police constable #132 Frank McNeal was served with disciplinary charge of Act to the Prejudice of Good Order and Discipline> He was placed on interdiction with effect as of 4th April 2013. 2. Reference report made by Ms. Carol James on Tuesday 2nd April, 2013 that when she arrived home from the United States on Saturday 30th March, 2013, she discovered that some jewelries and money was missing from her house.
• Robbery In Unitedville:
  A near midnight robbery in the village of Unitedville, Cayo, has left a bar owner with a busted forehead, and two male patrons wounded. Marisol Tobar, 35, Belizean businesswoman from Unitedville, reported to police that at around 11:30 pm on Saturday, March 30, 2013, three short male persons of dark complexion, wearing dark clothing and with their faces covered, stormed into her Hill Top Bar. One of them, armed with a handgun, reportedly pointed it her and demanded money. Fearing for her life, Tobar immediately handed over a thousand dollars to the gunmen who reportedly stole her gold chain with a diamond medal, valued at fifteen hundred dollars. The gunman then fired two shots into the bar before all three of them rushed out and disappeared into the darkness.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 14, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Four Charged For Ten Bullets:
  lena, Cayo led to the discovery of ten bullets and the arrest of all four occupants of the house. It was in the early hours of the morning on Thursday, April 11, when at team of policemen, acting upon information received visited the residence of Kaing Contreras located on Eden Drive in Santa Elena. Armed with a search warrant the police arrived at exactly 3:45 am announcing their intention to search the house. Contreras reportedly invited the police to conduct the search which eventually led to the kitchen where a plastic bag, containing 10 live rounds of FC 25 ammunition was found in a plastic bag on top of the refrigerator. The discovery led to the detention of all four occupants of the house who were later identified as the home owner Kaing Contreras, 27, clerk; Shelly Lemus, 22, domestic and Alvaro Aldana, 19, labourer, all Belizeans and a 17 year old Guatemalan labourer, Angel Ermando Recinos all residing at the Eden Drive house.
• Vega and Meda Busted With Over One Hundred Pounds Of Weed:
  San Ignacio police is this week reporting the interception of a cargo of over one hundred pounds of western weed suspected to have been destined for eastern streets. The report reaching us indicate that the sun was just setting in the western horizon when shortly before 6:00 pm on Thursday, April 4 San Ignacio police received the initial information of a weed carrying car heading eastward. By the time San Ignacio police got its act together, the car carrying the weed had already slipped pass San Ignacio from Benque Viejo heading full speed ahead in an easterly direction.
• Police Investigates Police Traffic Accident:
  A four year old boy, the victim of a road traffic accident involving a police vehicle, was today rushed to the Community Hospital in San Ignacio. It was shortly after 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 9, 2013 when police driver/Special Constable Domingo Kan, 46, was driving a black police Hilux with Belmopan license plates B-0145 on Bullet Tree Road heading to the San Ignacio Community on official police duties. In a report to the police, Kan informed that as he was driving on Bullet Tree Road he observed a child dashing across the road in the pathway of the vehicle he was driving.
• Empowering Education, for Children in Today's Society:
  Students of the University of Belize from the of Faculty of Education and Arts, Belmopan Campus, will hold a community outreach symposium entitled: "Empowering Education for Children in Today's Society". The bi-annual event will be held on April 18, 2013 from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at the reception hall, Jaguar Building. The symposium is aimed at enriching participants with an understanding and strategies to overcome barriers that negatively impact teaching and learning. Informational booths will be on display about important topics concerning: Career Options, Vocational Programs, Parent workshop for CXC, Workshop for PSE, Motivational Learning, Managing Stress, Behavioral Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: ADHD, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder: ODD.
• Mendez Pleas Guilty To Criminal Charges:
  The court appearance of a Benque Viejo Town pharmacist was fast tracked this Thursday morning when the presiding Magistrate, Attorney Linsbert Willis, was advised by the defense of the intention of the accused to change from a not guilty to a guilty plea. Cesar Mendez, brother of PUP Orange Walk East area representative, Marco Tulio Mendez, was criminally charged back in June of last year with three counts of aggravated assault of an indecent nature committed against a 12 year old female minor. Since the arrest last year, Mendez has consistently maintained a not guilty plea. The next appearance in court was set for Thursday, April 25 as court cases are currently heard only on Thursdays in Benque Viejo Town.
• Uncle Accused Of Molesting Nieces:
  prison as he stands accused of sexually assaulting two of his nieces. A mother, accompanied by two daughters, visited the police station in Benque Viejo Town where the two minors, in statements to the police informed that the uncle had sexual relations with one and touched the other inappropriately. A medical examination conducted last Friday, April 5, confirmed that the thirteen year old girl was indeed carnally known. She told the police that her uncle, Alejandro Martinez had sexual intercourse with her, against her will, on two separate occasions the last such encounter being in June 2012.
• Mexico Government Says Drug-Related Murders Down By 14%:
  Mexico's government says there have been fewer drug-related murders in Mexico since President Enrique Pena Nieto came to power on 1 December 2012. It said the number of drug-related killings between December and April had fallen by 14% compared to the same period a year earlier. Mr Pena Nieto says the fight against crime is one of his main priorities. Shortly after coming into office he announced the creation of a new police force. 'Early days' Government spokesman Eduardo Sanchez said 4,249 people had been killed by organised crime gangs between 1 December 2012 and 1 April 2013, a fall of 14% compared to the same four months a year earlier. The government of former president Felipe Calderon stopped releasing figures of drug-related violence in September 2011, but Interior Minister Miguel Angel Osorio Chong said the federal government had continued to keep a tally.
• US Blacklists Honduran 'Drug Lord' Chepe Handal:
  The United States Treasury has frozen any assets held in the US by the alleged leader of a Honduran drug-trafficking organisation. The US Treasury accused Jose Miguel Handal Perez, known as "Chepe Handal", of smuggling cocaine from Colombia and Venezuela to Mexican drug cartels. Mr Handal and his family have been banned from doing any business with US citizens and companies. He has denied the accusations. "They fell on me like a bucket of water. We are trying to clarify the situation, as we do not know where they originate," he told the AFP news agency. His wife, Ena Elizabeth Hernandez Amaya, and his father, Jose Miguel Handal Larach, have also been blacklisted by the US Treasury.
• Another Load Of Guatemalan Weed:
  Police is reporting the seizure of yet another cargo of Guatemalan weed making its way into Belize. While the earlier cargo this week was captured by San Ignacio police, Benque Viejo police is claiming fame for this one weighing a few more pounds than the San Ignacio Police seizure. It was exactly ten minutes to midnight on Tuesday, April 9, 2013, when Benque Viejo police received information of a group of male persons waking on the Hydro road towards Benque Viejo Town carrying suspicious cargo "Makapal" style on their backs and strapped across their shoulders. Police rushed to the location where they came upon a group of men on the Hydro Road. Realizing that the visitors were policemen, the men dashed into nearby bushes and disappeared into the night and in the process leaving behind three sacks later found to contain weed, water, food and a few items of clothing.
• National Agriculture and Trade Show:
  The National Agriculture and Trade Show Committee is pleased to announce the winners of this year Farmers of the Year 2013: Senior Farmer - Mr. George Choj. Mr. Choj is 30 years old of Cristo Rey Road in the Cayo District. He currently owns 25 acres of land of which 12 acres are developed into crop and livestock. Mr. Choj's farm is diversified and mostly based on the Integrated Farming System Concept. His activities involve both Crop (Periurban) and Livestock production through which he maximizes the by-products of each activity to generate income, reduce cost and improve product quality. Woman Farmer - Mrs. Sharon Moody. Mrs. Moody is from Scotland Half-moon in the Belize District and is 28 years of age. Mrs. Moody is a dedicated farmer who has been involved in mixed farming activities for the past seventeen years. Her farm consists of a combination of agricultural activities which include crop and livestock production. Her farm produces an assortment livestock for consumption and for the local market also she is involved in the agro processing of diverse products to include goat cheese, jams, jellies, pine apple, cashew, coconut oil and cohune oil for income generation.
• Tens Of Thousands At US Immigration Reform Rallies:
  Tens of thousands of demonstrators have rallied across the US in a mass call for citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants. The co-ordinated protests were designed to press Congress to act as senators negotiate an immigration reform bill. In Washington DC cheering crowds gathered outside the Capitol, and more than 1,000 demonstrated in Atlanta. Lawmakers are expected soon to unveil a bill that would grant a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants. The push for immigration reform follows an election in which Hispanic voters overwhelmingly supported President Barack Obama and Democratic candidates.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 21st, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Latest Invasion Of A Western Home:
  There has been much talk, even in the news, since last Tuesday of the latest aggravated burglary, also known as a home invasion, in the west taking place at Rumors Hotel on the western outskirts of San Ignacio Town, the owners of the hotel has been informing the public that nothing is further from the truth. While owners of the hotel are not disputing that the incident took place in the area, the establishment, they say, continues to be a safe haven for guests, customers and visiting friends. San Ignacio police informs that a massive nationwide manhunt is underway for two known convicts believed to have pulled off the brazen mid morning crime. The prime suspects, both from the Cayo District, are Marvin "Bombo" Neal, 20, Belizean laborer of an Eve Street address in Santa Elena Town and Jarod "Steal Bob" Lamb, 25, Belizean laborer residing in Ontario Village.
• Attempt Rapist Remanded:
  A Guatemalan wonderer is today cooling his heels in jail on an attempt rape charge. A 22 year old woman reported to San Ignacio Police that it was shortly after 7:00 pm on Saturday, April 13 as she was walking on Bullet Tree Road in San Ignacio Town when she was approached by a male Hispanic person wearing a green polo shirt, dark short pants and a white cap. The complainant told the police that the man grabbed her by the neck and dragged her into a drain on the road side where he continued struggling with her in an effort to pull off her skirt. She resisted the attempt until another female came to her assistance and pulled her away from the aggressive man.
• Wade Busted With Twenty Eight Pounds Of Weed:
  Thirteen days after an impressive drug bust in Georgeville Village by San Ignacio Police, yet another large quantity of suspected marijuana has been intercepted, this time in Santa Elena Town Cayo. The report reaching us indicates that just thirty minutes into the lunch hour on Wednesday, April 17, 2013, a team of officers on mobile patrol on the George Price Highway in Santa Elena Town intercepted a green Toyota Camry bearing Belize City license plates # BC-C-42803 in the vicinity of Three Flags Super Store.
• Rosewood Amnesty:
  A release from the Government Press Office today informed that A 'Rosewood Amnesty' was declared by the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development on the 9th of April 2013. The release goes on to inform that The Amnesty, which will last until April 26th, 2013, is intended to take stock of all the already cut rosewood that private individuals may have in their possession, and to approve this stock for international trade subject to the conditions of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The Ministry reiterates that the amnesty is only for rosewood that was previously cut.
• Young Bank Now Enjoying Reliable And Safe Water Supply:
  Residents of Young Bank, a community on the outskirts of Camalote Village in the Cayo District, now enjoys quality, potable water twenty four hours a day thanks to the Government of Belize. The official ceremony begun sharply at 3:00 p.m. with the singing of the national anthem by the gathering this was followed by an opening prayer by pastor Gilberto Perez while the welcome was delivered by the Camalote village chairman, Raymond Sheppard. Community leader Miguel Aldana gave an overview of the community over the past 13 years outlining the many struggles the community endured throughout the years every time the dry season came around.
• Elections and Boundaries:
  Public Notices
• Ten Ways To Ruin A Relationship:
  1. Be critical. Even "constructive" criticism can make your partner defensive and reduce the feeling of safety in a relationship. Being harsh and judgmental when angry can trigger a "flight or fight response." 2. Insist your partner be exactly the same as you. Hendrix and LaKelly Hunt say "absolute compatibility" is an express route to a dull relationship. If you insist your partner have the same feelings and perceptions as you do, it can lead to despair and misery. 3. Flee from intimacy. If you habitually avoid being physically or emotionally close with your partner through escaping into work, hobbies, television, or other activities, you risk creating a divide between you and your partner that may become impossible to breach.
• US Holds Back Recognition For Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro:
  The US government is refusing to recognise Venezuela's President-elect Nicolas Maduro's victory in disputed elections in Venezuela. Secretary of State John Kerry said the US was not yet ready to validate the results of Sunday's poll. Mr Maduro's narrow victory has been challenged by the opposition leader, Henrique Capriles. Mr Capriles is insisting on a vote-by-vote recount and has now submitted a formal request for one. However, the National Electoral Council in Venezuela has so far refused to order one, and the Supreme Court said on Wednesday that there was no legal basis for it.
• Mexico Drops Drug Link Charges Against General Angeles:
  Prosecutors in Mexico say they have dropped the charges against retired general Tomas Angeles Dauahare. Gen Angeles, a former deputy defence minister, had been accused of having links with a drug cartel. Prosecutors said they could not corroborate allegations made by two witnesses against the general. Shortly after the announcement, Gen Angeles was released from the maximum-security jail where he had been awaiting trial. He had been facing charges of "organised crime to further drug-trafficking", which he had denied all along.
• Canadian Travel Agents, Journalists & Wholesalers to Visit Belize!:
  The Canadian Market has been one of our growing markets in North America. The Belize Tourism Board has been aggressively working within this market; from successful trade shows to road shows and sales presentations. It gives us great pride to be welcoming a large contingent of Canadian Travel Agents, Tour Operators and Travel Writers, on Monday, April 15th, 2013. The Belize Tourism Board has organized a familiarization trip (FAM), to give 25 Canadian travel industry professionals an opportunity to learn about and experience Belize. The group of travel agents will be in the country from April 15-22. The FAM Tour will consist of a series of site visits at various properties in inland Cayo, Mountain Pine Ridge Area, Placencia and San Pedro Ambergris Caye, and will include popular tours in the respective areas.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 28th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Neal Surrenders - Lamb Remains On The Lam:
  Today marks exactly three months since the January 25, 2013 murder of Steven Valencia which occurred in his Loma Luz Boulevard home in Santa Elena, one of two men suspected to have collaborated in the home invasion turned murder was today accordingly charged. In the wake of the murder of Steven Valencia, police launched a nationwide manhunt for Marvin "Bombo" Neal, 20, of an Eve Street address in Santa Elena Town, Cayo, and Jarod "Steal Bob" Lamb of an Ontario Village address also in the Cayo District both wanted for questioning in connection with Valencia's murder.
• A False Sense Of Safety:
  As the none-public reporting of crimes in the community continues, deceptively leading residents to believe that they can let down their guards as all seems to be well; there are two reported burglaries reaching us this week. In the first incident, we were reliably informed that the San Ignacio home of Dr. Miguel Depaz, Director, Animal Health Department, Belize Agriculture Health Authority (BAHA), was burglarized/invaded as his mother in law and son lay asleep in their rooms.
• BWS Water Finally Coming To The Belize River Valley:
  The old promise to provide reliable, constant and safe potable water to the chain of nine communities in the Belize River Valley is now well on the way to finally becoming a reality. Ground was today broken in Double Head Cabbage, following a 2:00 pm ceremony signaling the commencement of this long awaited project. The 7.78 million dollar project will be funded by way of a loan to the Government of Belize by the Caribbean Development Bank with over eight hundred thousand dollars coming by way of counterpart funding through the Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL).
• Sports -An Alternative To Crime:
  As he continues to fullfill his manifesto promises to constituents of Cayo Central, Area Representative Hon. Rene Montero, today officially declared open the extensively renovated Carmen Street basketball court in Santa Elena. The Minister of Works and Transport, has again fulfilled another of his manifesto promises to bring back social activities to the youths of Cayo Central. The project which included the installation of new bathroom fixtures, electrical and water facilities as well as extensive works on the perimeter fence, bleachers, court surface, backboards, entrance gate, and landscaping of the grounds, was implemented by the Ministry of Works at a cost of over twenty thousand dollars.
• Calling On SHC Alumni, Family & Friends:
  Sacred Heart College embarked on a very ambitious project in 2006 to raise funds to build an auditorium that would serve our institution, as well as the community of the western Cayo District. With the hard work of our faculty, staff, students, parents, community and other stakeholders, we are proud to say that the project commenced in January 2013 with Phase 1 and Phase 2. These two phases includes the cement foundation, the purchase and erection of the steel structure and the back fill. SHC has invested over $430,000 for these two phases, which are monies that were attained via multiple fund raising projects over a 7 year fundraising period. Phase 3 of the project is the cement floor/slab, which will cost approximately $200,000 and we are anticipating that this will be completed by June 5, 2013, in time to hold our Graduation Ceremonies.
• My Body is Precious:
  The office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation will be launching a children's book entitled "My Body is Precious". It is becoming increasingly important to discuss the sensitive subject of Sexual Abuse of Children. Recognizing that it is not an easy conversation to have, my office partnered with the Ministry of Human Development and with assistance from UNICEF, we were able to produce 30,000 copies of the child-friendly "good touch, bad touch" booklet to be distributed countrywide. "My Body is Precious" is part of a national public information campaign on the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children and follows successful symposiums hosted by my Office in August 2010 and October 2011.
• Tropigas Contributes To Early Childhood Education:
  The Santa Elena Community Preschool on Carillo Puerto Avenue today received a much needed recreational facility generously donated by Tropigas Santa Elena Branch resulting from a competition organized and executed by Tropigas staff with assistance from the community. The award valued at $2,500 includes a swing set with attached slide. Competing preschools were asked to explain why their school was deserving of the award. In accepting the generous award, Santa Elena Community Preschool's head teacher Mrs. Lorena Rancheran expressed heartfelt appreciation to the management and staff of Tropigas as well as to parents and the community for their support in recommending Santa Elena Community as deserving of the award. The new facility came at an appropriate time explained Mrs. Rancheran, since the current recreational facilities at the school are inadequate.
• New Director of Cruise and Regional Initiatives:
  The Belize Tourism Board is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Cruise and Regional Initiatives Director, Mr. Valdemar Andrade. Mr. Andrade has been in the Tourism Tndustry for the past two years as the Technical Advisor/Project Liaison-Sustainable Tourism Program, for the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. He has several years of experience in conservation and other environmental areas, through his work experience with Protected Areas Conservation Trust, Ministry of Natural Resource and the Environment, and the Belize Audubon Society. "As we embark this year to grow cruise tourism numbers and strengthen Belize's position in that market, the skills and experience that Valdemar Andrade possesses will augment our goal. The BTB is confident in Mr. Andrade's abilities, and happy to welcome him to our team," commented the Director of Tourism, Mrs. Laura Esquivel Frampton.
• The Belize Logo Is A Finalist:
  The Belize logo has been chosen as a finalist for the "One Show Design" 2013 awards, in the category of "Brand Identity - Logo Design." The Belize Tourism Board and its Advertising and Online Agency, Olson, created the Belize logo as a part of a re-branding of Belize's identity. When creating the new logo, Olson made several trips to Belize to capture the essence of Belize's authenticity and incorporate it in the creative behind the new logo. The BTB and OLSON used the old logo as an inspiration, while the new look of the logo is expected to make Belize more recognizable and to better position the destination in terms
• Mexican 'Drug Queen' Pleads Guilty In Us:
  A Mexican woman on trial in the US has pleaded guilty to helping the former head of the powerful Norte del Valle cartel evade justice between 2002- 04. Sandra Avila Beltran, 52, dubbed Queen of the Pacific, admitted to "hindering the arrest" of Juan Diego Espinosa Ramirez, her boyfriend at the time. Avila, who has been in jail since 2007, was extradited to Miami last August. She faces a prison sentence of 15 years after accepting a plea bargain. She previously denied any wrongdoing.
• Four Belizeans Receive Prestigious Honour of the British Empire:
  Four Belizeans were today honoured at the Belize House for their selfless and outstanding contributions to Belize. The honourees included Senior Counsel, Mr. Denys A. Barrow, who was awarded the insignia for Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his distinguished service to Belize and the field of law; Commissioner of the Supreme Court and Senior Justice of the Peace, Mr. Patrick Alexander Bernard, was bestowed with the insignia of a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his dedication to the Public Service.
• Free Hearing Test in Belmopan:
  There will be free hearing tests available at the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan from April 24 to May 4 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. as part of the New Horizons exercise. If you are experiencing ringing or pain in your ears, difficulty hearing, or drainage from your ears, you are invited to the clinic to be evaluated. Depending on your symptoms, you may be eligible for free hearing aids or a surgical procedure. These services are provided by a team of U.S. medical professionals.
• US 'spy' Timothy Hallet Tracy detained in Venezuela:
  The authorities in Venezuela have detained a United States citizen they accuse of being an intelligence agent. Interior Minister Miguel Rodriguez Torres said Timothy Hallet Tracy had directed funds towards student protests after the disputed presidential elections earlier this month. He said Mr Tracy was trying to destabilise the country with the goal of starting a civil war. The US has not commented, but Mr Tracey's family say he is innocent.
• Guatemalan Gold Panners Convicted:
  Three Guatemalans were today remanded to the Hattieville prison after being apprehended in the Ceibo Chico Reserve, allegedly mining for gold in a protected area. According to a release issued by Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD), the incident occurred on Friday, April 19, 2013. The release states that the Joint Forces Unit, stationed at the Ceibo Chico Conservation Post, in South Chiquibul came upon a group of three Guatemalans reportedly panning for gold. The men were later identified as Mario Rolando Xol Caal, Marcos Domingo Pana Chiquin and Esteban Putul Mai all residing in the Village of El Naranjon, near San Luis, Peten, Guatemala.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 12th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Burke Charged For Slusher's Death:
  Preparations are underway for the Saturday morning, May 11, funeral service in Gales Point, Manatee, for Shaheem Slusher, 19, the latest victim of murder in the western twin municipalities. At around 6:00 pm on Friday, May 3, 2013, after receiving his pay for the week Shaheem left the construction site on Carillo Puerto Avenue in Santa Elena on his way home. He normally rides a bicycle to work but walked home on Friday as he told coworkers earlier that the bicycle had a flat tire. As is said to be customary when returning home after work, he stopped by the Macal River for a wash off swim before heading home. It is reported that on this occasion he came in contact with a man and three females socializing behind the Coconutz bar on the San Ignacio Bank of the Macal River where an argument reportedly first started with one of the females. The argument reportedly extended into a physical confrontation with the girl's boyfriend. In the confrontation the boyfriend reportedly pulled out a pen knife from wearing, flipped out the blade and rushed to the victim inflicting a first stab wound to the right side to the neck.
• Contrabanding Guatemalan Hens:
  A joint Belize Defence Force and Benque Viejo police operations resulted in the interception of a shipment of 500 live chickens originating from a neighboring Guatemalan village with reported destination to a western village on the Belize side of the border. It was shortly after 8:00 am on Monday, May 6, 2013, near Calla Creek Village on the Belize side of the border, when the joint team came upon a maroon Isuzu Trooper pulling a trailer stacked with wooden crates containing live chickens. The investigation revealed that the cargo of 500 laying hens originated in Santa Rosa, Peten, Guatemala and was reportedly intended to be delivered to an egg production farm in Valley of Peace, a community of mostly Hispanic villagers, located behind Roaring Creek Village near Belmopan.
• Santa Elena Primary School Open Day Invitation:
  We would like to invite you to attend our School Open Day on May 13, 2013. This is a great opportunity for you to have a better understanding of our school vision and mission; our educational philosophy; our teachers and students at SEPS. For the past three years the teachers at SEPS have been involved in a Teacher Leadership Program, focusing on Educational Leadership and Teacher Efficacy. They strive to be: 'Engaging Teachers who ENGAGE all students'. Come see the changes that have taken place in our school community that has lowered truancy and behavioral problems. Our teachers at SEPS are Education' and children are experiencing the JOY OF LEARNING. At Santa Elena Primary School we are excited to share with the general public skills and strategies they have learned through the Teacher Leadership Program.
• Two More Stolen Guns In Illegal Hands:
  This week we bring to the public's attention yet another reported but unreported major crime, as no arrest has been made resulting in no official release from the police as the public remains ignorant of another major crime and potential danger lurking out there. We were reliably informed that sometime last Sunday, May 5, the Unitedville home of Belizean laborer, Kent Smith, 51, was burglarized. The identified stolen items include a point 223 semi-automatic rifle; a twelve gauge shotgun and five twelve gauge cartridges. It is strongly suspected that the burglary was committed or masterminded by someone who is familiar with Smith's activities and that the guns and bullets were the specific items of choice.
• Keynote Address by the Honorable Gaspar Vega, Opening Ceremony for the National Agriculture and Trade Show 2013:
  Ladies and gentlemen, a pleasant good afternoon to all of you. Once again, it gives me great pleasure to address you, at this, my second Agriculture and Trade Show as Minister of Natural Resources and Agriculture. This afternoon I am particularly proud, as this new Multipurpose Centre we are using represents the start of a five year redevelopment programme for the Show Grounds. These grounds, all sixty acres, are truly a national asset and we must treat it as such. When you consider the rich history of the Agriculture Show and its prominent place in Belizean culture, then I dare say this is really a National Heritage Site. This year's theme "Stimulating Prosperity in Agriculture and Food Production Through Renewed Public- Private Partnership" captures the essence of the work the Ministry is undertaking. We are very much aware that for us to succeed, the active participation of private sector stakeholders in the work of the Ministry is vital. We facilitate, the private sector invest profitably, Belize and all Belizeans prosper!
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 19th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• No Arrest In Security Guard's Murder:
  An arrest is yet to be made in the most recent murder of an on-duty security guard even after the recovery of the guard's stolen license firearm and the detention of two suspects. San Ignacio police reports that at about 7:45 pm on Friday, May 10, 2013, information was received via the emergency 911 line of a shooting incident at Kenny's Store located on Flamingo Avenue in San Ignacio Town. A team of officers were quickly dispatched to the scene where they were told that the injured guard was rushed to the San Ignacio On arrival at the hospital, the guard identified as Randy Casey, 23, of Camalote Village, Cayo District was pronounced dead with two gunshot wounds to the left side of the chest and a third on the lower left side of the abdomen.
• Something Does Not Seem Right In The Pinelo Arrest:
  Primary school teacher Eddie Pinelo has been in jail for a week on allegations that he sodomized a 14 year old student. Pinelo has since been remanded to prison while his family has enlisted the services of an attorney to secure his release by way of a Supreme Court bail. In a statement to the police the boy alleges that sometime in April of this year, the teacher invited him to his house in Bullet Tree village where it is alleged that he was offered and consumed alcoholic beverages to the extent of getting drunk. The boy said that all he recalled was being lifted by the accused and taken off to a bedroom where he was allegedly sodomized by the teacher. They boy accompanied by the legally required medical examination. The medical doctor who performed the examination reportedly came to the conclusion that there was no evidence that the child was carnally known. And that should have been the end of the story.
• New Developments In Overnight And Cruise Sectors:
  There is fantastic news to report in the Tourism travel industry. Hot on the heels of the release of record breaking tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2013, new flights and cruise calls to Belize were announced for the final quarter of the year. Starting in November, Delta Airlines will be adding another Saturday flight from Atlanta to Belize. Delta currently deploys seven flights a week (one flight per day) to Belize, increasing its total number of flights to eight per week (twice on Saturdays). This is an additional 596 seats per month, and will be a permanent addition to Delta's schedule to Belize. In addition, American Airlines will be increasing its Dallas to Belize flights from three weekly flights to seven flights per week (one flight daily), providing a total of six hundred additional seats in the month of October. BTB's Director of Marketing and Industry Relations, Alyssa Carnegie, commented, "This is fantastic news. The Tourism Industry is doing so well that even the airlines have seen a need to increase flights, and these flights are being increased during a time that was generally considered to be a slow time for traveling by air. It shows amazing growth and more opportunities for the industry and Belize."
• Guatemalan Sent To Jail For Five Years:
  A Guatemalan, apprehended in the Chiquibul National Park, has been sentenced to spend the next five years behind bars after pleading guilty to keeping firearm and ammunition without a gun license. It was shortly after 6:00 pm on Tuesday, May 14, 2013, when a joint forces team of law enforcement personnel on patrol in the Chiquibul National Park came upon two Hispanic male persons walking suspiciously in the area. The police ordered them to halt but they instead ran off. The police caught up with one of them who had a gun slung over the left shoulder. On inspection the gun was found to be a point 22 rifle without serial number and brand. Police also found seven live point 22 bullets in the front left pocket of the pants the Guatemalan was wearing.
• The Belize Cancer Society - San Ignacio Branch:
  takes this opportunity to extend a sincere THANK YOU to all the donors who assisted in making its educational Open Day on Saturday, May 11, 2013 a success. These include: � Belize Electric Co. Ltd. (BECOL) � Bowen & Bowen � Central Cable Vision � Flame's Auto Shop � Oye FM � STAR Newspaper A very special thanks also goes out to our healthcare professionals - Dr. Ramon Figueroa, Nurse Rosita Figueroa of the San Ignacio Community Hospital and Nurse Dolly Witz of the Belize Family Life Association who gave of their time and services throughout the Open Day. To the families within our community who donated cupcakes and juices for our booth visitors we also extend a sincere thank you.
• The City Prepares For 2013 Hurricane Season While Cayo Slumbers:
  The 2013 Hurricane Season is almost upon us. The Belize City Council is busy preparing the city's emergency evacuation route; there will be 70 evacuation route signs installed along the emergency route as well as hosting Disaster Preparedness Training for the City's Operation Management and Shelter Management Team. We commend the City for these actions and it points out the obvious lack of concern for those of us living downstream of BECOL's dams. Does BECOL and the other relevant bodies responsible for the safety of people downstream of the dams have any plans in place? Has there been any meetings, simulations, communications with the villagers, townspeople and all those along the Macal, Mopan and Belize Rivers? We recently spoke to villagers in the area and they said the last time there had been any information about disaster preparedness was two or more years ago - about the last time BELPO took the Department of Environment, NEMO and BECOL to court. Maybe they are waiting for a disaster to happen before action is taken. If so, it may be too late for too many.
• Call to Artists for the 'National Song Competition 2013':
  National Celebrations Commission in association with Atlantic International Bank invites musicians, performing artists and songwriters from every level to submit songs in each of the two categories, which include the BELIZE SONG COMPETITION and the Carnival Song Competition (juniors and seniors). The BELIZE SONG must be a dedication to Belize as a country, our way of life, our culture. The Belize Song should evoke a call to build community spirit and national pride, be one that inspires national unity and must be memorable with popular and emotional appeal. The Belize Song must seek to replicate a Belizean flavor in any musical genre that is Rhythm and Blues (R&B), Jazz, Alternative, Soca, Reggae, Dancehall or any other genre selected by the artist. The Carnival Song must be of Belizean flavor and evoke our unbridled celebratory spirit at our time of National Celebrations, promote a free revelry, filled with the essence of Belizean culture and overall merriment of Carnival and our celebrations. Entries will be judged on: Audience Appeal; Musical Arrangement; Vocal Quality; Lyrical Content and Stage Presence.
• Benque Viejo Community Policing Unit:
  The RC school in Succotz Village, has seen its share of criminal activity this week, (1) a victim of a burglary & theft, (2) finding drugs on campus. Because of these recent events the principle Mr. Viviany Teul, and teachers decided to invite the community policing unit of the Benque Viejo Sub-Formation to school for a basic education on community policing, neighborhood watch, youth cadets, Special Constables, Great program, and other relevant topics of the day. The community policing officer PC Mckoy, had planned to give the presentation, however a previous commitment for special training by the US Embassy prevented him, so Special Constable Mr. Samuel Bruce was called in to assist on Thursday 9-5-13. The students met in the classroom of one the schools most experienced teachers, and a vital member of the Zone 4 Neighborhood Watch Program in Benque Viejo, class teacher Mrs. Isela Tesucum.
• Pope Francis hits out at global 'cult of money':
  Pope Francis has called on world leaders to end the "cult of money" and to do more for the poor, in his first major speech on the financial crisis. Free market economics had created a tyranny, in which people were valued only by their ability to consume, the pontiff told diplomats in the Vatican. "Money has to serve, not to rule," he said, urging ethical financial reforms. Meanwhile, the Vatican's own bank announced it would publish its annual report for the first time. The Institute for Works of Religion, which has been at the centre of various financial scandals in recent years, is to hire an external accountancy firm to ensure it meets international standards against money laundering.
• Ten Reasons Why Buggery Should Not Be Decriminalised:
  The Caribbean Centre for Family and Human Rights (CARIFAM) recognizes the fundamental and intrinsic dignity of all people whatever their orientation. We recognize that for reasons not yet fully explained by science, persons may experience attraction to members of their own sex. Overcoming these attractions can be a very painful challenge requiring the support, understanding and compassion of others. For this reason we distinguish between those who have a homosexual tendency and those who promote homosexuality. Our opposition to legalizing buggery (homosexual acts) is not an opposition to gay people but a recognition that marriage as between one man and one woman is for the common good - in the best interests of society. Our reasoning is as follows:- 1. Decriminalising buggery means legalizing homosexuality. This opens the door for the legalization of, every conceivable form of sexual perversion as a "sexual orientation" or "alternative lifestyle".
• Costa Rica's president in scandal over 'drugs' jet:
  Revelations that Costa Rica's president used the jet of a Colombian with alleged links to drugs trafficking have led to three high-profile resignations. The head of intelligence and security, Mauricio Boraschi, and presidential aide Irene Pacheco stepped down on Thursday. Communications Minister Francisco Chacon resigned on Wednesday. President Laura Chinchilla travelled twice on Gabriel Morales Fallon's jet. She said "a few key people" had failed in their duties to protect her. President Chinchilla is said to have used the jet in March to fly to Venezuela for the funeral of the former leader Hugo Chavez. She then used the plane again last weekend for a private trip to Peru. But it has since emerged that both the jet, and its owner Gabriel Morales Fallon, were under investigation by Costa Rican intelligence officials for possible ties to drug trafficking.
• Official Results Of The 12 May 2013 Village Council Elections:
• Mexico official fired for daughter's 'abuse of power':
  Nieto has fired a senior official over an incident caused by his daughter at an exclusive restaurant last month. Humberto Benitez Trevino's daughter caused outrage by using his influence to try to close down the bistro after it did not give her a table she wanted. The episode sparked a discussion about abuse of power in the country. The sacking suggests that Mexico has grown more sensitive to the issue, correspondents say. The episode became a trending topic on Twitter under the hashtag #ladyprofeco, after her father's agency. Mt Benitez, the attorney-general for consumer protection, and his daughter both apologised, but this did little to appease public anger.
• Argentina ex-military leader Jorge Rafael Videla dies:
  Jorge Rafael Videla has died aged 87 while serving a life sentence for crimes against humanity. He is reported to have died from natural causes in prison. The general was jailed in 2010 for the deaths of 31 dissidents during the 1976-83 military dictatorship, of which he was overall leader until 1981. Up to 30,000 people were tortured and killed during this period, in a campaign known as the "Dirty War". Gen Videla had been sentenced to life in prison for torture, murder and other crimes in 1985, but was pardoned in 1990 under an amnesty given by the president at the time, Carlos Menem. In April 2010, the Supreme Court upheld a 2007 federal court move to overturn his pardon.
• Trafficking Gang 'Smuggled Bangladeshis Into Brazil':
  Brazilian police say they have identified a gang specialising in trafficking Bangladeshi nationals into the country. About 80 workers have been lured by their own countrymen with promises of earning up to $1,500 (�985) a month. But they ended up as slave labour in order to pay their smugglers nearly $10,000, police say. South America's biggest economy has recently seen a steep rise in cases of illegal immigration. The smugglers explored routes across the borders of Peru, Bolivia and Guyana to enter Brazil, investigators said.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 9th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three Weed Arrests In Benque:
  records the seizure of over 15 hundred grams of marijuana in three drug operations resulting in the arrest of three male Hispanic persons. In the first incident, acting upon information received, at around 6:00 am on Friday, May 30, Benque Viejo police conducted a search at the residence of Jose Israel Zetina in Arenal Village. The search resulted in the discovery of 60 grams of weed. Zetina was consequently arrested and charged for drug trafficking. He appeared in the Benque Viejo Town courtroom of magistrate Hurl Hamilton where he pled guilty to the drug trafficking charge. He was ordered and paid the imposed one thousand dollar fine.
• Security Guard Shoots San Ignacio Man:
  A man allegedly under the influence of alcohol was shot by the security guard posted at Roses Chinese Store and Restaurant in San Ignacio. The police reports that on Sunday, June 2, 2013, at around 9:15 pm an emergency 911 call was received requesting police assistance at Roses Restaurant located on the George Price Highway on the western outskirts of San Ignacio Town. Upon arrival the police encountered a creole decent male person suffering from three gunshot wounds, one each to both legs just above both knees and the third to the upper arm. The injured man was identified as Rupert Rowland, 24, Belizean laborer of a San Ignacio Town address. Rowland was placed in the police vehicle and rushed to the San Ignacio Community Hospital.
• Step Father Convicted of Assaulting and Wounding Girl:
  Seven months after he was charged and pled not guilty on aggravated assault of an indecent nature and wounding his step daughter, Rosabel Mancia was today found guilty of both charges and sent to jail. The incident stems from an October 31, 2012 report made by the fifteen year old step daughter of the 35 year old Salvadoran convict of a Santa Cruz address in Santa Elena Town. The girl told the police that at around 10:30 one night five days prior to making the report, Mancia entered her room and punched her in the face while she was sitting on her bed. She told the police that since the incident she has been suffering from nose bleed.
• Is It Double Standards, Indiscipline or Just Plain Arrogance?:
  Contributed Article; I am unable to say what happens in other parts of the country but in our community I can, with all authority, say that there certainly exist double standards in terms of law enforcement. Is it actually double standards or is it really a display of indiscipline or maybe even utter contempt for those who supervise them or, heaven forbids, total incompetence on they part of those who supervise them? The matter at hand is the enforcement of the law as it pertains to the wearing of helmet by motorcyclists. The sighting of a traffic warden writing a traffic violation ticket as he stands beside a non-helmet wearing motorcyclist, is regularly seen.
• Suspected Drunk Boy Crash In Front Of Police Station:
  Of all the places to crash, a 17 year boy, suspected to be drunk, drove the vehicle he was driving into the street light pole in front of the police station in San Ignacio. At around 1:30 on the morning of Sunday, June 2, the policeman working the front desk inside the station heard a loud crashing noise and upon stepping out of the station he saw a vehicle crashed into the street light pole at the corner of Buena Vista Street and King Street. Bleeding from an injury to the nose, sitting behind the steering wheel of the extensively damaged blue Toyota Tacoma truck, was a young male person with the strong aroma of alcohol on his breath. Sitting next to the driver was another male person also bleeding from injuries suspected to have been caused by glass particles from the shattered windshield.
• Doctors and Nurses benefit from Advance Training in Gynecology:
  Doctors of the U.S. Military Air Force - New Horizons 2013 and Midwives from Project HOPE also of the U.S. held a two day training session in Advance Life Support In Obstetrics last month in Dangriga Town. The training had the participation of 29 specialists in Gynecology and Obstetrics from the Northern, Western and Southern Regions as well as Medical Officers, Nurses Midwives and Front Line workers in Obstetrics. At the opening of the training, an overview presentation was done on theMaternal and Child Health Program. Training on specific subject areas included Post Partum Hemorrhage, Interruption of Delivery, Assisted Delivery - Use of a Vacuum, Monitoring of Labour and Interpretation of Monitoring graph, Maternal Resuscitation and Emergency C-section. Communication techniques between doctors and nurses in times of an emergency was part of the training where alarm codes and courtesies were highlighted. The training also had a practical section where the trainees worked with mannequins and flow charts.
• Dentist rewarded at Annual Dental Workshop:
  The Dental Department, Ministry of Health in partnership with San Cas Group of Companies and Wrigley's ORBIT brand conducted the Annual Dental Workshop in San Pedro Town from May 16th to 18th, 2013 under the theme: "Brush and Floss Every Day to Keep Cavities Away." According to Senior Dental Health Surgeon, Dr. Raphael Samos, the objectives of the workshop were to review the action plan of the Department and to discuss future activities.
• Advice on Smoke from Bush Fires:
  The Ministry of Health advises the General Public that due to recent sustained bush fires around the country there is a risk for vulnerable individuals of over exposure to smoke. The smoke associated with these bush fires has the potential to irritate eyes and cause breathing problems. Individuals with chronic lung conditions and asthma are advised to avoid areas with intense smoke. Use a masks or wet rags if you cannot avoid the smoke. Persons with chronic lung conditions in general and asthma in particular are advised to have medication on hand and are also reminded to go to the nearest health facility for respiratory support if needed. Special attention must be given to the elderly and very young.
• MOH Partners with Peace Corps:
  The Ministry of Health will partner with Peace Corp Belize to conduct a workshop on Maternal, Newborn and Child health (MCH) including sessions on non-communicable disease (NCDs) to be held later this month. The main purpose of the workshop will be to ensure technical sessions on MCH and NCDs, to provide agency and country specifics on the work that Peace Corp will do within communties in Belize alongside HECOPAB Community health workers and also to assist Peace Corps Belize to adapt and integrate the language and technical content for Pre-Service training.
• Matron Roberts Polyclinic held successful Annual Health Fair:
  Matron Roberts Polyclinic II in collaboration with the Health Education and Community Participation Bureau (HECOPAB), Central Health Region, and others partners in health organized its Annual Health Fair and Wellness Activities at the Matron Roberts Polyclinic II grounds on May 24th, 2013 under the theme, "Your Health, Your Life, Act Now." Visitors had the opportunity to learn more and take advantage of Primary Care services at the grounds. These included outpatient services, maternal and child health services, nutrition and wellbeing, dental health services and mental health services.
• Official Result Of The 2 June 2013 Village Council Elections:
• Codd's Drugstore Allegedly Robbed:
  The sales clerk from Codd's Drugstore in Santa Elena reported to police that the store was robbed by a barefaced man. Hilda Zometa, the sales clerk, told the police that she was behind the counter inside Codd's Drugstore located next to A&R Store on the George Price Highway in Santa Elena when at around 7:00 pm on Friday, May 31, 2013, a man entered the store, pointed a gun at her, demanded money and made off with almost 900 dollars. In the statement to the police the clerk reported that the robber, allegedly posing as a customer, entered the drugstore at around 7:00 pm and requested a bottle of antibiotics.
• The Blue Hole - Nominated for the "8th Wonder of the World":
  The Belize Tourism Board is elated to announce the submission of Belize's Great Blue Hole, as the "8th Wonder of the World", a title which can only be achieved with your help!
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

This Week's Stories:

• Jarod "Steel Bob" Lamb Finally Captured:
  Jarod "Steel Bob" Arthurs Lamb has been on the San Ignacio police's most wanted list since the January 2013 home invasion/murder of Belizean businessman Steven Valencia in his Loma Luz Boulevard home in Santa Elena, Cayo. Lamb, who had managed to evade the police for over five months while committing more crimes, was today caught off guard when Belmopan police was alerted of his location. San Ignacio police informed that Lamb, 25, Belizean laborer of Ontario village in the Cayo district was captured in neighboring Camalote village. He was escorted to the Belmopan police station where he is to face charges for crimes he is accused of committing in that area.
• BECOL Warning System Failed:
  Reliable reports reaching us indicates that the Tuesday, June 4, 2013, planned testing of BECOL's early warning system, in the event of a dam break, failed. The rather embarrassing incident reportedly occurred in the presence of representatives from the National Emergency Management Organization and from the Department of the Environment both legally charged with overseeing such exercises. The system at San Ignacio fire station failed as well as the one located at Black Rock Resort. The siren was to have blasted seven times for three consecutive minutes at three minute intervals none of which reportedly occurred. The failure now begs the question: Is BECOL really prepared to issue the relevant warning in the event of a dam break, or will residences in the destructive path of the dam feel before they hear the warning?
• Hon Rene Montero - Delivering On His Promises:
  2013: In fulfilling his manifesto promise to support young athletes in Cayo Central, Minister of Works and Transport, Hon Rene Montero, today handed over a thousand dollar check to the captain of the Georgeville football team. The donation explained the coach could not have come at a better time as the Georgeville football team is preparing to play, in Georgeville, a friendly match against a Guatemalan team. The coach is asking villagers from Georgeville and surrounding communities to come out and support their team. As works continue to progress in the village, with the upgrading of streets, refurbishing of the community center and support for the feeding program in the village primary school, Minister Montero pledged to continue supporting the community and the entire Cayo Central constituency.
• St. Andrews Excels In PSE:
  Bernice York Institute of Learning is this year's top PSE student, the management and staff St. Andrews Anglican Primary School in San Ignacio are proud to have produced the next two top students in the Primary School Examination (PSE). St. Andrews Primary School's Vincent Hulse and Nelson Esteban tied for 2nd place both receiving perfect scores in Math and Science finishing the examinations with an astounding 386 points out of a possible 400. Other top PSE St. Andrews School students are Alain Morris and Zahara Zul who both tied in 6th place.
• Evangelism In Politics:
  When televangelist Silas Malafaia gathered 40,000 followers outside Brazil's congress this week, it wasn't just to raise their arms to the sky and praise the Lord. The rally was a show of support for lawmakers who oppose abortion and same-sex marriage and a message to other politicians that they should not ignore Brazil's fast-growing evangelical churches if they want to stay in office. "Gay activism is moral garbage," Malafaia roared into the microphone to a cheering crowd on the grassy esplanade of the Brazilian capital. "Satan will not destroy our family values."
• Belizeans In The United States And Abroad Agressively Demanding Full Citizenship Rights In Their Homeland:
  By: Wellington C. Ramos When the Government of Belize started the debate to educate Belizeans throughout the country on the Referendum Initiative to take the Belize-Guatemala territorial dispute to the International Court of Justice (I.C.J.), many Belizeans in the United States and Belize became insecure about their current citizenship status. Since the 1980's the Government of Belize has been granting citizenship status to many Guatemalans who entered the country illegally. These citizens now have the right to vote, run for political office and become the Prime Minister of Belize. While, the Belizeans who were born in Belize and became citizens of the United States and other countries, are not entitled to these same fundamental rights unless they renounce the citizenships of their new countries.
• Response to Briceno's letter on behalf of Fortis:
  Contributed by: Candy Gonzalez Mr. Briceno penned a Letter to the Editor that Fortis, Inc. used in a full page ad as part of their attempt to quash any objections to their purchase of C.H. Energy, in upstate New York. One of the letters opposing the takeover was from Robert Kennedy, Jr., who spoke of Fortis' record in Belize. Briceno felt "compelled to correct the errors in the commentary and present your readers with an accurate account of the developments that took place under my watch". Unfortunately, his "accurate account" is about as accurate as his pronouncements back in 1999-2008. One has to wonder if Mr. Briceno even wrote this letter. The reason I say this is because he refers to the NEAC as the "National Environmental Assessment Committee." The NEAC reviews all Environmental Impact Assessments. The Department of Environment was part of Briceno's portfolio, Wouldn't he know the NEAC stands for the "National Environmental Appraisal Committee"?
• Belize Embassy in Washington Raises funds for the Inspiration Center:
  The Embassy of Belize in Washington has raised US$60,000 for the Inspiration Center. His Excellency, Ambassador Nestor Mendez, who is visiting Belize, handed over the cheque to the Special Envoy for Women and Children, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow on Tuesday. The donation is the proceeds of several fundraising events hosted in Washington between October 2011 and May 2013. The majority of the funds were raised at a hugely successful gala on February 16th, 2013, which brought in over US$40,000. Mrs. Barrow is extremely grateful to Ambassador Mendez and his team for their hard work and dedication as well as the Belizean diaspora in Washington for supporting the important cause of providing a safe, inclusive environment for children with disabilitiesto access much needed services.
• Fuego Bar and Grill- At The New Cayo Welcome Center:
  After a barrage of photos and tempting advertisements promising the latest and greatest "elevated Belizean street cuisine" I was excited to attend the tasting preview for Fuego Bar and Grill this past Monday. Fuego made a great first impression as I stepped up the sidewalk of the new Welcome Center into the patio area with simple clean edges and clever little flairs of style making their appearance as drinks we served and dishes popped out of the kitchen. The interior of the restaurant continued to warm the taste buds with oversized photos of the local market and glowing lamps dangling over the bar illuminating Leo Arguelles and his team of Mixologists as they blended and twisted to keep up with thirsty tasters. Trays of tiny little treats began to make their way out of the kitchen window where I could see Chef Jesse Mas was in his element constantly smiling and making sure every morsel was up to his standard. Each dish that was served was unique and enticing and well prepared. The tastes were a brilliant mix of local flavor and international styling.
• National Gender Policy Issue What's The Fuss? Part 1:
  On May 17th, news broke about the new Revised National Gender Policy developed by the National Women's Commission, and the INCLUSION OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION into the Gender Policy. Turns out that Caleb Orozco and UNIBAM were actively brought into the process of CREATING the new Gender Policy, and that this Policy was already APPROVED BY CABINET IN MARCH!! Now hold on a minute!! You trying to tell us that while Govt was fighting UNIBAM with one hand in Court, they had ALREADY APPROVED a Gender Policy months before, and UNIBAM helped draft it and it includes the homosexual agenda? How can this be?
• Official Results of the June 9th Village Council Elections:
• Santa Elena Primary School Receives Much Needed Assistance:
  The Infant one and two students of Santa Elena Primary School have been housed in two trailer home classrooms for the past ten years. The classrooms have since deteriorated considerably, with one of the major problems being the flooring of the buildings. We have echoed these sentiments to our community and other stakeholders at every opportunity we get, but to no avail. The cries of our teachers reached the ears of Mr. Richard Zul and Lucille Sosa who visited our school and saw the urgent need for the repairs of the floor and immediately contacted their partner, Mr. Robert Trausch who has been bringing teams to Belize for the past years to do voluntary services in various communities. Proactive, retired couple, Gary and Jerry Dennis, heard about the plans to renovate the floorings at SEPS and assisted Mr. Zul with the ground work before the arrival of the main team. Hence, the students from Nederland High School in Colorado have spent the last week under the guidance of their teacher Ms. Lorie Kinczel working on the flooring of three much needed classrooms.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 23rd, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The June 30th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The July 7th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The July 14th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• The Anti - LGBT March Comes To Town:
  As they continue the protest against the Lesbian, Gay, Bi- Sexual and Transvestite (LGBT) agenda, the movement arrived in San Ignacio on Tuesday, July 9 for a protest march through principal streets in San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The march comprising mostly pastors and followers from evangelical churches between Belmopan and Benque Viejo, as well as from communities in between, was attended by several hundreds of protesters. It began at around 10:00 am at the Macal River Park in San Ignacio where it also ended at around 1:00 pm in a heavy downpour of rain. While the protest is clearly against the Lesbians Gays Bi-Sexuals And Transvestites ( LGBT) agenda, as borne out by the placards carried by participants, organizers have confusingly say that the movement hasno room
• Two Weeks - Two Bodies Fished From The Macal River:
  The body of another male person was fished out of the Macal River. Exactly fifteen days after the discovery of the decomposed body of Cyril Margarito Cal, 28, Belizean, of a Hillview address in Santa Elena Town, police are again reporting another body found floating in the Macal River this time more downstream near the wooden bridge. San Ignacio police reports the receipt of a call on the emergency line at around 9:15 am on Monday, July 8, 2013, of a body floating on the Macal River about 100 yards downstream from the wooden bridge linking the twin municipalities of San Ignacio and Santa Elena.
• Marijuana Bust On The Bus:
  manning the Anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bi- Sexual and Transvestite protest rally in San Ignacio, a young man from neighboring Guatemala is alleged to have attempted to move weed through the town. Acting upon information received, the police mounted an emergency check point on Joseph Andrews Drive at the intersection with 5th Street in San Ignacio. They conducted a search on a green passenger bus from the Belize Bus Owners Cooperative, where they came upon a young fellow sitting inside the bus with the trademark knapsack on his lap. The black bag was searched and was found to contain two parcels tightly wrapped in brown transparent tape. When opened the parcels were found to contain suspected marijuana. A further search under his seat led to the discovery of another knapsack, this time a green one, and when opened was found to contain another two parcels of suspected marijuana.
• Belize Gets Unique Support From Back Home:
  Soon after the elation over clinching a first berth in the CONCACAF Gold Cup had subsided, the work began for Belize. And it was not just on the training grounds. The Jaguars turned to fundraisers, doing a little bit of everything to get the necessary money to not only prepare for the tournament, but also head to the United States two days early to get acclimated to a different enviroment and the artificial turf at Portland's JELD-WEN Field, foreign to the tiny Central American country. "Man, we did all kinds of things to reach where we're at right now," defender Ian Gaynair said following the team's training session Thursday morning. "Thanks to our country for supporting us. We did barbeques, telethons, all kinds of things. The country is actually supporting us little by little now and I'm so thankful for that."
• Your Words Carry Power!:
  Daily Grace Inspirations From Joseph Prince Ministries Ecclesiastes 8:4 Where the word of a king is, there is power� In Bible times, a king's word carried tremendous power. What he decreed would come to pass. It would be done. For example, if he said, "Raise the taxes," the taxes would be raised. Do you know that we are kings? The Bible tells us that Jesus has washed us from our sins with His blood and made us kings. (Revelation 1:5-6) And as kings in Christ, our words carry power too. When we place our hands on a sick person and say, "Be healed," the person is healed. When we lay hands on our children and say, "Be blessed," our children are blessed. There is power in our words because they are the words of kings!
• US Allies Mexico, Chile And Brazil Seek Spying Answers:
  US allies Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Chile have joined other Latin American nations in demanding answers from Washington over spying allegations. Brazilian media reported earlier this week that the US had seized web traffic and phone calls across the region. Spying targets included oil and energy firms, Venezuela's military purchases and information on Mexico's drug wars. The reports, based on leaks by fugitive Edward Snowden, said the US ran a "data-collection base" in Brasilia. The O Globo newspaper said the US facility in the Brazilian capital was part of a network of 16 such bases maintained by the National Security Agency (NSA) around the world to intercept transmissions from foreign satellites.
• Congratulations Are In Order:
  Congratulations are definitely in order for Jonathan Cariddi and the entire staff at Mr. Greedy's Pizzeria located in the heart of downtown San Ignacio town for receiving the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award. "The accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Only the top-performing 10 per cent of businesses world wide listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.
• Are The Churches Promoting Hate Crimes?:
  Are The Churches Promoting Hate Crimes? The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, Senator Lisel Alamilla has gone on record expressing grave concerns about what she perceives could be the promotion of hate crimes against gay men and women in Belize. A statement below, posted on Facebook, by the Minister has sparked critisism from all walks of life; "I do not oppose persons having different views or religious beliefs but it concerns me immensely when those are being communicated by misinformation, manipulation and fear which could result in hate crime. Belize is not a melting pot, the Belize that I know is a country where persons of different cultures, ethnic groups, religious beliefs, languages and history come together under one banner and respect diversity. We are a reef people, we are a forest people, we are Belizeans.
• British Army Hands Over Trucks To BDF:
  The Belize Defense Force today received a total of Seventeen (17) Four-Ton Trucks from the British Army Training Support Unit Belize (BATSUB). The Handover took place at a short ceremony this afternoon in which the main speakers were British High Commissioner in Belize His Excellency Mr. Pat Ashworth and CEO in Belize's Ministry of National Security Colonel (Ret.) George Lovell. Mr. Ashworth said his Government is pleased to be able to make the donation to the Belize Defense Force; and CEO Lovell said the Belize Government is very grateful for the assistance which will go a long way in enabling the BDF to transport its troops.
• How To LIVE A HAPPIER LIFE:
  HAPPIER LIFE I think everyone would agree happiness is an important part of life. What is happiness though? It is interesting that Merriam- Webster's first definition of happiness is that of good fortune or prosperity. Although this can cause people to be happy, I do not think of happiness as good fortune. I believe the second definition is more fitting. Happiness is a state of well-being and contentment otherwise known as joy. Today I am going to share with you 10 EASY things you can do to bring more happiness or joy into your life. Envision what you want. Spend time each day thinking how you want your day to be. What do you want to accomplish? How do you want to feel?
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 21st, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The July 28th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Alleged Home Invader Freed On Bail:
  It has been quite a while since we reported on a home invasion in the community. The latest such reported incident is alleged to have occurred at around 8:30 pm on Thursday, July 18, 2013 on the George Price Highway in Santa Elena. San Ignacio police received the report home invasion in the area known as Hotpoint on the George Price Highway in Santa Elena Town. A team of policemen rushed to the area where they met Hugh Tillet, 49, Belizean laborer originally from Crooked Tree Village in the Belize District. Tillet reported that sometime around 8:25 pm he and his wife were inside the bedroom of their house when two armed, masked male persons invaded the house and kicked down the bedroom door.
• Rest In Peace Luis Mendez:
  The family of a promising football star is today preparing to lay their loved one to rest in the wake of a tragic accident that occurred in Guatemala on the evening of Tuesday, July 23, 2013. A Guatemalan news agency informed that it was shortly after 3:00 pm on Tuesday, July 23, when the bus in which Luis Mendez, 22, of a Benque Viejo Town address in the Cayo District, was travelling from Guatemala on the return journey to Belize along with his wife when the passenger bus reportedly crashed into a trailer causing it to slide off the road, down a gully and overturned. Several passengers were injured in the accident but Mendez was the only one who died.
• Editorial: Confused, Confused, Confused:
  As the effort continues to connect the dots, several incidents making the news in the past days and weeks are yielding more questions than answers: 1.While it is no secret that we at the STAR Newspaper hold Audrey Matura Shepard in high regard; unless she comes forward and informs otherwise, we are of the view that her hasty disconnection from OCEANA is the product of an anti-homosexual article she wrote in the Amandala newspaper yet, as OCEANA's Representative in Belize she would allow herself to be used in the handing over of a four thousand dollar check to UNIBAM the lead group overtly promoting the homosexual agenda in Belize. 2. To the best of our knowledge UNIBAM could care less about anything having to do with on or off shore exploration for oil and even less about anything having to do with ocean protection. UNIBAM's singular focus is the promotion of gay rights and the homosexual agenda in Belize.
• Letter to the Editor:
  I was saddened to see the report in the STAR listed as "anti-LGBT" "anti-UNIBAM" march, when it was specifically listed as a Constitution March, standing upon the Constitutional words invoking the Supremacy of God, the position of the family, inalienable rights endowed to us by our CREATOR, and that "men & institutions remain free ONLY in respect for moral & spiritual values and the rule of law." The word "Constitution" didn't appear once in your article. Then to follow up with the feedback from Asa Dematteo, who is a homosexual, married to a man, from San Francisco, the epitome of debauchery & homosexual license (if you're brave enough, look up "Folsom St. Fair" and you'll get a good picture of San Francisco and what excites Mr. Dematteo and the world HE wants to live in.) Sorry Mr. Dematteo, we absolutely support TRUE HUMAN RIGHTS and the qualification is being a HUMAN. We do not support homosexual rights, above everyone else's rights. Homosexual sodomy is NOT a fundamental human right. And it's unconstitutional in Belize.
• Guatemalans Suspected In The Stealing Of Motorcycles:
  News is today surfacing of an alleged ring of motorcycle thieves with suspected cross border origins. In the latest incident, Floyd Thiessen, 22, Belizean farmer residing in Spanish Lookout reported that at around 11:00 am on Wednesday, July 24, 2013, he was at Belize Tire Depot located on Center Road in Spanish Lookout when a relative called allegedly informing him that someone had ridden off on his 2009, 450 cc Honda Motorcycle valued at ten thousand dollars which was parked inside his garage at home. An immediate fruitless search of the Spanish Lookout area was conducted. Based on the description of the individuals and the sequence of similar incidents, police investigators are of the opinion that the motorcycle thieves are from across the border in Guatemala.
• Lifeline Foundation receives a BZ$2 Million from the Oak Foundation for the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit:
  A press release from Life Line Foundation and the office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children today informed that the founder of Life Line Foundation and the Special Envoy for Women and Children, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow is pleased to announce that the Oak Foundation has committed to donating 2 million dollars toward the construction and equipping of a new Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. The release additionally informed that the donation is the result of over a year of discussions and due diligence between the Oak Foundation and the Lifeline Foundation. Half of the donation is earmarked for the construction of the new facility while the other one million dollars will go towards the procurement of equipment. The donation will allow for the works, which recently commenced on the new wing of the KHMH to move forward at a quicker pace while efforts continue to raise the remaining needed funds.
• Belize Recognized Among the Top 10 Best Eco Vacation Spots in the World by FlipKey:
  Belize was named as one of the "Best Eco Vacation Spots" in the world by FlipKey, a TripAdvisor company. The list, developed based on both traveler feedback and industry research, commends Belize for its countless opportunities to experience incredible natural beauty and unique biodiversity. With 36 percent of Belize's landmass and 13 percent of its waters enjoying protected status, the country has long been a leader in this category. From the majestic Blue Hole to the recently established Turneffe Marine Reserve, Belize delivers an authentic, unspoiled experience for both locals and travelers to enjoy. Many others have recognized Belize for its prominence in this category, including renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, who says, "Thank you, Belize, for doing what you are on the land and in the sea; for taking care of the natural systems that take care of us. It is priceless."
• Sand Hill Village Gets Multi Purpose Center:
  A spanking new multipurpose centre is slated to be inaugurated this Sunday, July 28, in Sand Hill Village in the Belize Rural North Constituency of the Hon. Edmund "Clear The Land" Castro. A release from the Social Investment Fund informs that the facility will benefit over 400 students, who prior to the project had to either travel all the way to Belize City on weekends or stay back after school to do research due to the lack of computer and internet resources in the village. The project, implemented by the Social Investment Fund, was financed by the Government of Belize at a total cost of over three hundred thousand dollars of which over two hundred and eighty five thousand dollars came in the form of a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank while the remaining fifteen thousand dollars was contributed by the people of Sand Hill. The project entailed the rehabilitation of the old community centre including the addition of a one room extension to serve as a kitchen. A temporary partition to facilitate mobile health clinics was also installed.
• Suspected Bovine Rabies Reported In Toledo:
  The Ministry of Health (MOH) is hereby notifying the public that a suspected case of bovine rabies (rabies in cow) was reported on July 24, 2013 by Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) in the New Road Area of the Toledo District. The MOH and BAHA have been engaged in the investigation and treatment of eight exposed persons as part of a proactive response pending confirmation of laboratory result on the sample. While there is no confirmed case as yet, the public is reminded that periodic cases are seen in the country alluding to active circulation of the rabies virus between the wild, livestock and domestic animals. Officials with the Ministry of Health and BAHA will continue to monitor the situation and are encouraging residents to report any animals that are showing sign of rabies which includes tiredness, fever, vomiting and anorexia, weakness, paralysis, seizures, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, abnormal behavior, aggression, and/ or self-mutilation.
• Belizeans In The United States Form A New Group To Address Dual Citizenship Rights:
  When Belize became independent on September the 21st 1981, Belizeans who were born in Belize and became citizens of the United States and other countries automatically lost their Belizean citizenships. While, people who were not born in Belize that obtained Belizean citizenship through; descent, marriage to a Belizean citizen naturalization etc. retained the citizenships of their natural born country and Belizean citizenship with all the rights, privileges and to run for office including becoming the Prime Minister of Belize.
• BURNS:
  A young man sprinkling his lawn and bushes with pesticides wanted to check the contents of the barrel to see how much pesticide remained in it. He raised the cover and lit his lighter; the vapors ignited and engulfed him. He jumped from his truck, screaming. His neighbor came out of her house with a dozen eggs and a bowl yelling: "bring me some more eggs!" She broke them, separating the whites from the yolks. The neighbor woman helped her to apply the whites onto the young man's face. When the ambulance arrived and the EMTs saw the young man, they asked who had done this. Everyone pointed to the lady in charge. They congratulated her and said: "You have saved his face."
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 4th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Fatal Traffic Accident In Bullet Tree Village:
  Another fatal traffic accident. Another western taxi driver dies. It was shortly before 8:00 pm on Wednesday, July 31, when San Ignacio police were summoned to the emergency ward at the Community Hospital in San Ignacio where they were shown the officially pronounced dead body of a male hispanic person. The police investigation revealed that about half an hour earlier, a male witness reported hearing a crashing noise in the area of the bridge at the entrance to the Bullet Tree Falls Village. The witness informed that upon checking into the source of the crashing noise, he came upon an extensively damaged, overturned blue four door Toyota Corolla car with its four wheels in the air near the bridge and with a male Hispanic person trapped behind the steering wheel.
• Contreras Accused Of Attempt Burglary:
  Quick response from San Ignacio police has resulted in the arrest of a San Ignacio man who attempted to burglarize a house in San Ignacio. Erik Santos reported to police that at around 7:45 pm on Juy 28, he secured his house located on Awe Street in San Ignacio and left to visit a relative in the nearby Santiago Juan Layout Area. Upon returning home he first noticed that his porch light was turned off subsequently noting that the lock on the main door was damaged. Further checks revealed that nothing was missing from inside the house. Notwithstanding however, the police investigation led to the arrest of Richard Contreras, 31, Belizean laborer, of a 17th Street, San Ignacio town address. The accused appeared in the San Ignacio courtroom of Magistrate Narda Morgan on July 29, where pled not guilty to the attempt robbery charge.
• A Lovely Ceremony It Was:
  Relatives and friends gathered today at 10:00 am at the Sacred Heart Church in San Ignacio Town to participate in the wedding ceremony of Peter Perez and Toni Lisbey. The weather was perfect for the intimate ceremony, which was celebrated by father Moises of Sacred Heart Church. The lovely bride was dressed in a highlow dress decorated with Toni's favorite pink floral sarong, while the groom displayed an elegant black suit and the brides maids were dressed in lovely pink dresses. A reception to celebrate the newly weds took place at the Codd's residence on Requena Street in Santa Elena Town, where congratulations and best wishes were imparted upon the newly wedded couple.
• Press Release By Belize Action - Monday July 29th, 2013 Re: SPLC Report:
  Last week's report from Southern Poverty Law Center in the U.S. purported the involvement of certain U.S. based groups alleged to be promoting hatred & violence in Belize by assisting efforts to protect Section 53 of the Criminal Code, the Belize Sodomy/Unnatural Act law. Although it was named "Intelligence Report," it was full of "unintelligent" falsehoods & slanderous untruths in an attempt to vilify and paint as "hate groups" the Belizean efforts & leaders who have taken a strong stand for Family Values in Belize. The timing of the SPLC report was a weak attempt to distract from a month of Constitutional Marches across Belize that mobilized almost 10,000 Belizeans to stand for Constitutional values and opposed to the 2013 Gender Policy in it's present form.
• REMAR Resident Remanded:
  A patient from the drug rehabilitation center, REMAR, in Bullet Tree Falls village has been remanded to the Hattieville prison on a theft charge. The charge stems from a report made by Miguel Angel Osorio, businessman of Benque Viejo Town, Cayo. Osorio alleges that sometime during the night of Monday, July 8, 2013 his business place in the San Ignacio market was robbed of over two thousand dollars worth of merchandise listed as 15 music boxes, valued at $520, 28 male and female watches, valued at $1050 and other items valued at $1,220 all for a total of $2,790. According to Osorio, his business place was left in tack the night before the incident and upon returning to open the following day he encountered his business in a ransacked state thus indicating that it was burglarized.
• UB Celebrates 13 Years Of Contributing To National Development Of Belize:
  The University of Belize today celebrates its 13th Anniversary as the national tertiary institution for Belize and is proud to continue to serve Belize as a vehicle for training more students to develop a wide range of opportunities for Belizeans. On August 1, 2000, the University of Belize (UB) was born from a merger of five institutions: the University College of Belize (UCB), the Belize Technical College (BTC), the Belize Teachers' Training College (BTTC), the Belize School of Nursing (BSN), and the Belize College of Agriculture (BCA). UCB, BTC and BTTC were under the supervision of the Ministry of Education (MOE); BSN was under the supervision of the Ministry of Health (MOH); and BCA was under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA).
• Amado Castillo Sr.:
  Amado Castillo Sr. a retired Forest Officer fighting various medical complications was laid to rest on July 31st, 2013 at the Benque Viejo Cemetery. Born and raised in San Estevan, Orange Walk he lived most of his elder years in Santa Elena, Cayo. He was predeceased by his parents Isabel and Amado Castillo and his first wife Eucebia Castillo. He is survived by his 8 daughters: Rosario, Dalila, Elicia, Nelita, Carmelita, Xiomara, Krystal and Sarita. 7 sons: Rudy, Hilberto, Amado Jr., Angel, Luke, Mark and Madiel. Siblings: Pablo, Cesar, Joe, Petrona, Benedicta and Serafina. A host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. The Castillo Family would like to send a sincere thank you to everyone who assisted in any way possible throughout this time of bereavement.
• Oak Foundation donates $2 Million for Pediatric Care Unit:
  The Ministry of Health was pleased to be a part of the announcement by Ms. Kim Simplis Barrow, Special Envoy for Women and Children on the generous donation of two million dollars from the Oak foundation towards the construction of the new Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. The Lifeline Foundation, founded by Mrs. Barrow was instrumental in the discussions that eventually led to the commitment of the funds. One million dollars will go towards the construction works while one million will go towards the purchase of equipment for the unit.
• Technical Mission on Non-Communicable Diseases and Cancer:
  The Ministry of Health has been selected as one of the participants in a global project with the goal of " St r e n g t h e n i n g policy frameworks to reduce premature death toll from Non- Communicable Diseases." As part of the project, a technical mission led by regional consultant, Silvana Luciani, Pan American Health Organization's Washington Office was in country from the 15th to 10th, July to advance work in the area of national plans for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cancer.
• Vector Control gets pickup trucks to increase ULV Spraying of Mosquitoes:
  The Government of Belize recently purchased two 2013 Great Wall - Wingle 4 x 4 pickup trucks for the vector control program to assist with Ultra Low Volume (ULV) spraying in the Corozal and Toledo districts. The total cost of both vehicles was BZ $78,800.00. One of the trucks was handed over to the Northern Region and the second pick-up was sent down south to do work in the Toledo District. The Ministry of Health has stepped up its surveillance and interventions to prevent dengue - from health education, mass larviciding, to ULV spraying.
• Suspected Bovine Rabies Case Notified:
  The Ministry of Health is hereby notifying the public that a suspected case of bovine rabies (rabies in cow) was reported on the 24th of July 2013 by Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) in the New Road Area of the Toledo District. While there is no confirmed case as yet, the public is reminded that periodic cases are seen in the country alluding to active circulation of the rabies virus. Officials of the Ministry of Health and BAHA will contiue to monitor the situation and we encourage you to report any suspected case.
• Mental Health Annual Workshop:
  The eleventh Annual Mental Health Workshop was held from July 18th -20th in Placencia Village under the theme, "Integrating Quality into Mental Health Care. In a short opening ceremony to welcome the participants, Dr. Phillip Castillo encouraged the nurses to elevate the conversation to improve what exist in Mental Health while, Matron Augustina Elijio ask the nurses to adhere to principles, ethics, scope of practice and standards at all times when carrying out the duty of nursing. Mental Health Program Nursing Administrator Eleanor Bennett welcomed and introduced Dr. Wesley Quimbo, Psychiatrist for Ministry of Health; he takes over from Dr. Claudina Cayetano who moved on to PAHO earlier this year.
• Call for probe into death of Jamaica 'cross-dresser':
  Human Rights Watch has called for Jamaican police to conduct a "thorough, impartial and effective investigation" into the killing of a 17-year-old boy reportedly wearing women's clothing. Dwayne Jones was attacked by a group at a party after they discovered he was male, according to local media. Police said he was stabbed multiple times and shot once. Activists say Jamaicans who do not conform to gender expectations face mental and physical abuse.
• Healthy Living Tips:
  It sounds bizarre, but beetroot could be a secret weapon against high blood pressure. The condition is a major cause of heart disease and stroke, but many people aren't aware they have it as it has no symptoms. Now, researchers from Barts and the London School of Medicine say drinking 500ml of beetroot juice could dramatically reduce blood pressure after just one hour. So drink up the pink stuff.
• A Questionable Future For The Garifuna People In The South Of Belize:
  In studying Belize's history when most Belizeans heard of the south the first thing that came to their minds were the Garifuna people. Why? Because when the British granted permission to the Garifuna people to reside in Dangriga Town in 1801 they were told not to go anywhere else but to remain in the south. At that time the Creoles were still slaves to the British and the Maya Indians were trying to survive the colonial policies of the British and the Spanish who were taking away their lands from them. The Maya Indians who lived in Belize, Guatemala and Mexico fought viciously against the Spanish and the British but did not have the military tools to overcome these two great giants that were competing for territories in the region.
• Tourism Public Sector Responds to BTIA on the Proposed Cruise Tourism Development Project in Southern Belize:
  The Ministry of Tourism & Culture and the Belize Tourism Board wishes to respond to the ill-informed, irresponsible campaign launched by the Belize Tourism Industry Association on today's Love FM Morning Show against the proposed Cruise Tourism Investment Project in Southern Belize. The Ministry of Tourism & Culture and the Belize Tourism Board would like to state the following facts: � The National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan calls for the development of six tourism products, with cruise tourism being one of the six. � That the National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan calls for the decentralization of cruise tourism in Belize in an effort to reduce overcrowding, provide better management of our tourism sites, enhance safety and security conditions for cruise visitors and increase local participation within this sub-sector.
• BENQUE VIEJO YOUTH SUMMER CAMP:
  For: Benque Viejo Police Sub-Formation community policing unit community policing efforts at its best in Benque Viejo! On Friday 26th July concluded the youth summer camp offered by Zone 4 Neighborhood Watch Group in Benque Viejo, hosted annually by the zone captain Samuel Bruce in the spacious multipurpose community park located on his property. Zone 4 NHWG under the leadership of Mr. Bruce since 2008, has continued to be the community policing unit's model of success, bringing numerous community activities for the youth, and residents of zone 4 in Benque, promoting positive activities, educating the residents about helping to keep the crime level low in Benque. This year's summer camp focused on arts & crafts projects conducted inside the stone constructed community center, directed by; the veteran teacher, and zone quadrant leader Mrs. Isela Tesecum, with assistance from; Marcia Rosas (teacher)...
• Anger in Chile over ruling on 2010 mine collapse:
  An investigation into the 2010 accident in Chile that left 33 miners trapped underground for more than two months has failed to find anyone responsible. The case was closed after a prosecutor said there was not enough evidence to press charges against either the owners of the mine or regulators. One of the miners said it was a "disgrace for justice" while a former minister called it "unbelievable". The miners' rescue in a special capsule was followed live around the world. "This is a disgrace to Chile's justice system,'' one of the survivors, Mario Sepulveda, told Associated Press news agency,
• US in worldwide travel alert on al-Qaeda threat:
  The US state department has said it is issuing a global travel alert because of an unspecified al-Qaeda threat. In a statement, the department said the potential for an attack is particularly strong in the Middle East and North Africa. The move comes shortly after the US announced the closure of embassies in the region on Sunday. The alert expires on 31 August 2013, the department said. It recommended US citizens travelling abroad be vigilant. "Current information suggests that al-Qa'ida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks both in the region and beyond, and that they may focus efforts to conduct attacks in the period between now and the end of August," the statement said.
• UN narcotics body warns Uruguay over marijuana bill:
  The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) says it is concerned by the approval by Uruguayan MPs of a bill which would legalise marijuana. The INCB says the law would "be in complete contravention to the provisions of the international drug treaties to which Uruguay is party". Under the new law, the state would assume control of growing and selling cannabis to registered users. The bill still needs to be passed by Uruguay's senate before becoming law.
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• Public Notices

The August 11th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• First Murder In Benque In Over Two Years:
  Three days after his brutal death, relatives of Pedro Antonio Vasquez are today making final funeral preparations to lay his body to rest in Benque Viejo Town. An arrest is yet to be made as Benque Viejo police say that they are following several leads in what they say is the first murder in the jurisdiction in over two years. The call of the presence a dead body in the municipality was received by Benque Viejo police at around 5:00 am on Sunday, August 4, 2013. Police rushed to the scene where they came upon the still bleeding motionless body, still with a pulse, of a male Hispanic person face downwards in a pool of blood adjacent to the gas station on Churchill Street. The man was rushed to the community hospital in San Ignacio where, on arrival, he was officially pronounced dead by the doctor on duty.
• Luke Espat - From PUP Financier To PUP Candidate:
  He first busted on the scene in the 90's as a PUP contractor. Among his first engagement s was the building of houses on the outskirts of Belize City on the Northern Highway. Today over two decades later at least one of the several houses he built, leaning on its side, remains as a permanent testimony of a man who was destined to fail in every venture thereafter. It is like everything he touched thereafter turned to mud. It was in the wake of the leaning Belize City houses that he inherited the name Lucas Eilene. His name at birth is actually Luke Espat. This is the man who this week announced that he is running for the dying opposition PUP in Cayo Central, a constituency to which he is as alien as the Russians landing on our shores, a constituency to which he has absolutely not a single connection.
• Toledo Alliance for Progress:
  The Toledo Alliance for Progress (TAP) is a grass roots Toledo-based organization, duly registered in January 2013. It comprises of members from the National Kriol Council, National Garifuna Council, East Indian Council and the business community. TAP advocates for the support of developmental activities and programs that assist communities in creating employment, self- reliance and improvement in the quality of lives in the Toledo District. 1. Statistics have shown that Toledo is the poorest district in Belize 2. The government's stringent budget since the 1960's can scarcely cope with the district's call for better education, health & welfare as well as much needed employment and infrastructure.
• Venezuela Top Court Rejects Capriles' Election Appea:
  Venezuela's highest court has rejected an appeal by opposition leader Henrique Capriles against April's contested presidential election result. The Supreme Court of Justice described the appeal as "inadmissible". After the ruling Mr Capriles tweeted that there was a "lack of justice" in Venezuela. Nicolas Maduro, Hugo Chavez's handpicked successor, won the election by less than 1.5 percentage points - about 200,000 votes. The opposition alleged that the vote had been marred by fraud. In June the Venezuelan National Electoral Commission (CNE) confirmed President Maduro's victory in an audit on millions of votes, but Mr Capriles denounced the audit as "a fake".
• Twenty-six Belizean Youth Attend Conference in El Salvador to Learn to Contribute to Their Community:
  Youths from six communities in Belize travelled to El Salvador over this past weekend (2 - 5 August) to attend a Bah�'� Youth Conference. They returned Monday night full of excitement to execute the plans they made for themselves to serve their communities of Corozal, Belmopan, Belize City, San Pedro, San Ignacio, and Dangriga. This Conference was attended by 660 youth ages 15 to 30 from Belize, Cuba, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and El Salvador. It was one of 114 similar Regional Conferences being held from July through October around the globe on all continents and many island groups. The purpose of these gatherings is "to summon today's youth" of all faiths and backgrounds "to put the needs of others before their own" in order "to aid the spiritual and social development of those around them, especially ones younger than themselves". The Universal House of Justice, which is the international governing body of the Bah�'� Faith, called for the Conferences.
• Letter:
  I carefully read Scott Stirm's insulting reply to my letter appearing in your Sunday, July 21, 2013 edition. Stirm attempts to insult me personally by saying that I am a homosexual. I am, and I have no more of an apology for that than I do for being right-handed, bald, or having blue eyes. He attempts to insult me by stating that I am married to a man. I was, indeed, legally married to Thomas J. Brady, M.D. five years ago, after having made a life together for the prior 33 years. Our marriage is legal under the laws of California and the United States Government. I have no apology for my married status. It offers us the legal protections, health care rights, tax benefits, financial obligations to one another, and the protection of our estate that traditionally married couples have without asking for it. We have no issue with our marriage not being recognized by various churches, synagogues, and mosques (although it is by some); ours is a civil marriage, not holy matrimony governed by the church. And Stirm attempts to insult me and my home town of San Francisco (the city where the United Nations got its start) by calling it the "epitome of debauchery" and ascribing to me excitement over a fringe festival I never attend.
• The Situation In Trinidad Could Lead To Change In Electing Prime Minister:
  Most of the countries that were former British colonies have a government that is similar to the one in Great Britain. In this type of government the Prime Minister is the Head of State and they have a Bicameral Legislative Body. The Prime Minister is the Leader of his or her political party who is elected to serve in the House of Parliament to represent his or her constituency. The Leader of the party that wins his or her seat and the majority of seats in the House of Parliament, automatically becomes the Prime Minister of the country. However, if the Leader of the party loses his or her seat, then he or she cannot serve as the Prime Minister of the country. The elected members of the party can then choose from among themselves their leader to become the Prime Minister.
• THE BELIZE RED CROSS:
  The Disaster Risk Reduction project entitled "Saving Lives in the Caribbean Through Preparedness" implemented by the Belize Red Cross since July of 2011, and funded by USAID with support from the American Red Cross , is now in its final stage. After two years of working to build resilience in (14) communities in Belize, Community Emergency Response Teams (also known as CERTs), have completed all 14 modules of training in community disaster response. At a ceremony to be held at the Bacab Eco-Park , Burrell Boom , on Saturday August 10th, 2013 at 10:00 a.m., these successfully trained community members will be certified. These teams will then be officially introduced to NEMO and CEMO as first responders to strengthen the national response and recovery teams within their communities, before, during and after an event.
• "Inspirational Corner":
  Contributed by: Juanita Bradley Chap. 1 - Source and Aim of True Education Our ideas of education take too narrow and too low a range. There is need of a broader scope, a higher aim. True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come. {Ed 13.1} The source of such an education is brought to view in these words of Holy Writ, pointing to the Infinite One: In Him "are hid all the treasures of wisdom." Colossians 2:3. "He hath counsel and understanding." Job 12:13. {Ed 13.2}
• Mayan Sculpture Discovered In Guatemalan Pyramid:
  Archaeologists working in a Mayan pyramid in Guatemala have discovered an "extraordinary" stucco sculpture depicting gods and Mayan leaders. The frieze, which is eight metres long and two metres wide (26ft by six feet), shows three figures decorated with quetzal feathers and jade sitting atop the head of a mountain spirit. It was found at the pre-Columbian archaeological site of Holmul. Site director Francisco Estrada- Belli called it it a once-in-a lifetime find. Snake Lords v Tikal The frieze was found below a 20m-high (65ft) pyramid which was built over it in the 8th Century. "The preservation is wonderful because it was very carefully packed with dirt before they started building over it," Mr Estrada-Belli said. The sculpture is believed to depict the crowning of a new Mayan leader in about AD590.
• Malaria vaccine shows early promise in clinical trials:
  A malaria vaccine has shown promising results in early stage clinical trials, according to researchers. Researchers found the vaccine, which is being developed in the US, protected 12 out of 15 patients from the disease, when given in high doses. The method is unusual because it involves injecting live but weakened malaria-causing parasites directly into patients to trigger immunity. The research is published in the journal Science. Lead author Dr Robert Seder, from the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institutes of Health, in Maryland, said: "We were excited and thrilled by the result, but it is important that we repeat it, extend it and do it in larger numbers."
• Colombia coca area down by 25% - UN:
  The area of land planted with coca - the raw ingredient for cocaine - in Colombia has fallen by 25%, a UN report has said. The land under coca cultivation is now about a third of that in 2001, says the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). While coca areas fell nationwide, they rose in three provinces plagued by rebels and drug gangs. Colombia is one the world's top three cocaine producers and has made the war on drugs one of its main priorities. Prevention v eradication The annual report by the UN's Integrated Illicit Crops Monitoring System says that the land planted with coca bushes has dropped from 64,000 hectares in 2011 to 48,000 hectares in 2012, the lowest figure since monitoring started in Colombia more than a decade ago.
• Hon John Saldivar Donates to El Shaddai Seventh Day Adventist Primary School:
  Belmopan Area Representative Donates $3,000 for Computers to El Shaddai Seventh Day Adventist Primary School in Belmopan Minister of National Security and Area Representative for Belmopan, Hon. John Saldivar, in conjunction with the Reconstruction Development Corporation (RECONDEV), has donated $3,000 to El Shaddai Seventh Day Adventist Primary School in Belmopan to assist in purchasing computers for the School. Hon. Saldivar presented the cheque of $3,000 this afternoon to Vice Principal Valentine Diego at the School's campus on Macal Street in Belmopan City. Accompanying the Minister was Chairman of RECONDEV Rodney Neal and the Corporation's General Manager Hector Sabido.
• Honduras Drug Gang Shootout Leaves 17 Dead:
  Seventeen people have been killed in a clash between rival drug gangs in Honduras, chief prosecutor Roberto Ramirez has said. The shootout happened in La Mosquitia, a remote region on Honduras' Atlantic coast. The area is the main transit route for cocaine being transported from South America to the United States. Honduras has the highest homicide rate in the world, much of it blamed on gang violence and drug traffickers. Mr Ramirez said that one of those killed was a gang leader from neighbouring Nicaragua - Victor Centeno, known as "El Muco".
• Cocoa 'might prevent memory decline':
  Drinking cocoa every day may help older people keep their brains healthy, research suggests. A study of 60 elderly people with no dementia found two cups of cocoa a day improved blood flow to the brain in those who had problems to start with. Those participants whose blood flow improved also did better on memory tests at the end of the study, the journal Neurology reported. Experts said more research was needed before conclusions could be drawn. It is not the first time cocoa has been linked with vascular health and researchers believe that this is in part due to it being rich in flavanols, which are thought to have an important role. In the latest study, researchers asked 60 people with an average age of 73 to drink two cups of cocoa a day - one group given high-flavanol cocoa and another a low-flavanol cocoa - and consume no other chocolate.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 25th, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The September 1st, 2013 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Thomas Caretella Jr. Chopped In San Ignacio:
  Thomas Ivan Caretella Jr., 28, one of two men acquitted in June 2012 of the September 1, 2007 murder of San Ignacio taxi man, Leopoldo "Polo" Waight, is today in critical but stable condition at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City, the victim of a chopping incident in San Igancio. San Ignacio police reported receiving the 911 call at around 12:30 am on Sunday, August 25, 2013 of a bleeding man on the ground on Independence Street, San Ignacio. A team of policemen rushed to the scene where they encountered the victim with chop wounds to both arms and feet lying in a pool of blood. The bleeding man was rushed to the San Ignacio Community Hospital for emergency medical treatment. He was later transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for further medical treatment.
• Mexican Doctor Drowns In Belize:
  The body of Mexican veterinarian, Dr. Macelino Sosa, has been returned to his home country for funeral services, the latest victim of a drowning incident in the Mountain Pine Ridge. San Ignacio police reports that Gabino Canto, Belizean Field Director for the National Cattle Sanitary Plan Project informed that at around 4:30 pm on Friday, August 23, 2013 the deceased, along with a group of Mexican veterinarians, was taking photographs near a waterfall at the Rio On Pools when he reportedly slipped and fell off a twenty foot high cliff. A search for the body was immediately mounted but it was not until eighteen hours later when the body was discovered by relatives, friends and elements of the security forces.
• Ministry of Health to Implement Dengue Control Campaign in San Pedro Town:
  As a part of its ongoing countrywide Dengue Prevention Campaign, the Ministry of Health is introducing an operation in San Pedro Town. The campaign includes ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying, thermal spraying of houses, premises inspections, spraying of drains and issuing of bed nets to homes in high-risk areas for dengue. A team of personnel from the Vector Control Unit was dispatched to San Pedro Town on Tuesday, August 20, to investigate and assess suspected cases of dengue that were reported in areas such as DFC, Boca del Rio and San Pablo. The issuance of chemically-treated bed nets has proven to be the most effective form of personal protection to reduce dengue transmission. This initiative is free of cost to the residents and is being carried out in close collaboration with the San Pedro Town Council.
• World Bank and Ministry of Health Implement Japanese Social Development Fund Child Health Project in Toledo:
  The Ministry of Health (MOH), the World Bank and the Japanese Social Development Fund (JSDF) continue to work closely together to promote better health for women and children in communities of the Toledo District. This week, members of the World Bank Team are in Belize meeting with officials from the Ministry of Health to monitor the implementation phase of the JSDF Grant which funds the "Improving Children's Health and Nutrition" project. The project is being implemented by the Toledo District Health Council (TDHC) with the Ministry of Health providing oversight of the process. Working sessions to share the results and progress of this project are being held throughout the week facilitated by technical advisors of the Ministry of Health and members of the World Bank team led by Senior Operations Manager for the Grant, Carmen Carpio.
• 2013 Belizean Youth Ambassadors Dine at the U.S. Ambassador's Residence Before Travel to the U.S.:
  U.S. Embassy's Charg� d'Affaires, a.i. Margaret D. Hawthorne and Mrs. Barbara Thummalapally hosted a luncheon for Belizean Youth Ambassadors at the Ambassador's residence on August 12, 2013. The youth are part of the U.S. State Department's Central American Youth Ambassador Program, sponsored this year by Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. and coordinated through the Belize Family Life Association. The program offers three groups of Central American youth from Belize, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama the opportunity to experience and expand their knowledge of U.S. culture, society, and education by traveling to the U.S. for three weeks and visiting several destinations during this time.
• "Inspirational Corner":
  Thank you so much for allowing me this privilege of sharing this "inspirational corner" in your newspaper. The following paragraphs ends the first chapter. I pray they will be uplifting, spiritually educational and interesting to your readers. Especially considering the times we are living in. I am opened to constructive criticisms and appreciate corrections as this is a first time experience for me. My objective, with God's help, is to make this newspaper the best by providing the kind of spiritual knowledge that will encourage not only the citizens of Santa Elena & San Ignacio, but the whole country of Belize to want to purchase it in anticipation. As the bible declares in Hosea 4:6 and I quote- "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (end of quote). It is my intent by God's grace to be able to provide this spiritual knowledge that is needed for this end time. God continue to bless and keep you, your loved ones and your enterprise. Yours in Christ, Sista B.
• Ministry Of Energy, Science And Technology And Public Utilities Rejects SATIIM Accusing The Government Of Belize Of Engaging In Illegal Activities In Southern Belize:
  Technology and Public Utilities (MESTPU) notes with regret a recent press release by Sarstoon-Temash Institute for Indigenous Management (SATIIM) in which the organization continues to erroneously accuse the Government of Belize of engaging in illegal activities on their customary lands as it relates to the issuance of oil concessions and accompanying permits in southern Belize. While the Ministry respects SATIIM rights to espouse their views regarding its interpretation of the Court of Appeal ruling, the Ministry must reject as irresponsible the insistence by SATIIM in misinforming the public regarding the ruling of the Court of Appeals as it relates to oil exploration in southern Belize. The Court of Appeal in its ruling, expressly refused to uphold the order issued by the then Chief Justice Conteh that required the Government of Belize to "abstain from issuing any concessions for resource exploitation, including concessions, permits or contracts authorizing logging, prospecting or exploration under the Forest Acts, Mines and Mineral Act, the Petroleum Act, or any other Act" Furthermore, the Court of Appeal agreed with the Government of Belize that the learned Chief Justice Conteh erred in law in failing to take judicial notice of the Petroleum Act which vests property in petroleum in the State and of the Sixth Amendment Act which, for avoidance of any doubt, exclusively vests the ownership of petroleum and other minerals in the Government of Belize.
• 2013 Village Arts and Craft Expo:
  Belize City: The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) invites you to the 2ndAnnual Village Arts & Craft Expo, on Saturday, August 31st, at the Fort Point Pedestrian Walk at the Memorial Park in Belize City. Over one hundred and twenty artisans will treat patrons to an exhibition of craftsmanship through local souvenirs, carving, clothing, jewelry, and packaged foods. The BTB recognizes the importance of locally made arts and craft in promoting Belize, and, as a result, over the past three months, BTB's Destination Planning Department has been working with artisans from across the country on how to better package, present, and market their products to a local market. The Village Arts and Craft Expo is a result of the Village Outreach Program outlined in the Tourism Master Plan, which Destination Planning Coordinator, Clive Myers, said, is set to create useful ties and provide income generating opportunities.
• France's Hollande backs US on Syria action:
  France is still ready to take action in Syria alongside the US, despite UK MPs blocking British involvement, President Francois Hollande has said. He told Le Monde newspaper a strike within days could not be ruled out. The US says it will continue to seek a coalition, and President Barack Obama is meeting his national security team. The UN is investigating claims that the Syrian forces of President Bashar al-Assad used chemical weapons. Mr Assad denies the claims, blaming rebels. UN chemical weapons inspectors visited a hospital in a governmentcontrolled area of Damascus on Friday.
• The Gilmore Henkson Trophy:
  It has been announced by Mr. Charles Bartley Hyde, President of the Belize Olympic Committee's Fair Play Commission, and other members; Mr. Raymond Lashley, Ms. Hadie Gomez, Mrs. Yolanda Fonseca and Mr. Edward Pitts, and with the consent of Mr. Hilly Martinez, President of the Belize Olympic & Commonwealth Games Association, in concurrence with His Excellency, Sir Colville Young, Patron of the Belize Olympic Committee that the Gilmore Henkson Fair Play Trophy has been awarded to Mr. Woodrow West and Mr. Ian Gaynair for their outstanding honesty & patriotism during their participation in the Gold Cup Tournament in the U.S.A. Their character exemplifies the aims and objectives of the International Olympic Committee.
• Colombia Troops To Patrol Bogota After Protests:
  Colombia is to deploy troops in the capital, Bogota, following violent protests in support of a strike by small-scale farmers. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos said the troops were needed "to assure normality". Clashes with police broke out after thousands of people took to the streets in support of the farmers. The farmers say the government's agricultural policies are driving them into bankruptcy. "It's unacceptable that the actions of a few impact the lives of the majority," President Santos said after an overnight cabinet meeting.
• Back To School Week: 7 Teacher Tips To Get Your Kids Back Into School Mode:
  are dreading the most. We all know that our kids need to get back into the habit of going to bed at 8 and waking up by 6am. That doesn't make it any easier after the bedtimes have been creeping backwards over the summer. It wasn't your fault, it was still sunny at 6pm! "But it really is going to be difficult for students those first couple of weeks if you don't get them used to it," multiple teachers warned me. "There's so much going on in the beginning, you don't want them to be exhausted and falling asleep on their desks after lunch." So a couple of pro tips? Make the transition gradual, don't just try to plop them into bed an hour earlier the week before school and expect a miracle. And enforce the morning wake-up time too. After a couple of early mornings on little sleep, your kids will want to go to bed at a normal time.
• BTB Stands Willing & Ready to Support Guests, Staff and Management of Ramon's Village Resort:
  Minister Manuel Heredia Jr, Minister of Tourism & Culture and Area Representative, Board of Directors and Staff of the Belize Tourism Board express deepest regret at this most unfortunate occurrence to hit Ramon's Village Resort. On Tuesday, August 27th, around eight p.m., Ramon's, one of the island's oldest and iconic resorts, located on Coconut Drive in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, was gutted by fire. While preliminary reports indicate that more than thirty cabanas, restaurant, gift shop, and other facilities were destroyed, and the island was without electricity for an hour due to an emergency power interruption which was needed to mitigate damages from the fire to nearby transmission lines, we are happy to report that there were no casualties nor injuries. All twenty-five guests staying at the resort at the time of the fire have been accounted for and relocated to nearby hotels. The safety and well-being of these guests remain the priority and concern of Belize Tourism Board and Ramon's Village Resort, and, as a result, we have ensured that they will not incur any cost for their new accommodations, and we have provided them with care packages.
• How To Be A Good Listener:
  A good listener uses positive body language; leaning forward and showing an enthusiastic, relaxed nature. They don't fidget, cross arms, look elsewhere or express inappropriate shock or disbelief at what's shared. 6. A good listener does not hurry somebody, but asks good questions to guide the sharing. They guide and help shape what's being shared, but if the other person feels cut off or squashed they've failed. 7. A good listener does not approach a conversation with prejudice, expecting to know what's going to come out of the speaker's lips.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 11th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• The Weird Case Against Darrington Williams:
  The almost 19 month "weird" burglary case against a 46 year old Belizean Electrician from Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo ended on April 29 in a conviction and a 5 year jail sentence. The "weird" case against the convicted burglar, Darrington Williams, also known as Junior Williams, began on October 23, 2012 when a 28 year old man, cohabitating with his mother in Bullet Tree Falls, made the initial report to San Ignacio police. The man told the police that during the nighttime hours of October 22, 2012, he and his mother left the restaurant they operate in Bullet Tree Falls. The man headed home while the mother told him that she was going to San Ignacio Town. When the son arrived at home he noticed that the lights inside the house were on. He concluded that his mother might have changed her mind and had instead gone home. He went around the house to a back door and called for his mother. Opening the back door was Junior Williams instead of his mother.
• Jermy Audinett Found Guilty On Drug Charges:
  A man from Esperanza Village, Cayo was today found guilty on drug charges and ordered to pay a ten thousand dollar fine. Acting upon information received on February 22, 2012, over 26 months ago, a team of Special Branch officers visited the Esperanza Village residence of Jermy Audinett, 21 at the time, unemployed Belizean, where a search resulted in the discovery of 477 grams of marijuana. The first 8 grams of weed was found in the pocket of a white � Dickies pants on a red sofa inside the house. A further search led to the discovery of an additional 433 grams of the drug in a black plastic bag under the same chair plus an additional 36 grams of weed found in a knapsack also inside the house.
• American Man Plea Guilty For Drug Possession:
  A 20 year old American man today pled guilty for the possession of 85.5 grams of weed and was ordered to forthwith pay a ten thousand dollar fine. A team of alert policemen on mobile patrol in Santa Elena Town, at around 11:00 am, made a stop at a yard, notorious for marijuana activities, in the Trapiche Area. The team's attention was drawn to a Caucasian male person acting in a suspicious manner. He was pulled aside for a body search which led to discovery of a parcel of marijuana concealed in the waist band of the brief he was wearing. The man, identified as Jeffrey James Suisher, 20, who is in Belize on a tourist visa and residing in Cristo Rey Village, was transported to the police station in San Ignacio where the weed, weighed in his presence, registered 85.5 grams on the police scale. A quick charge sheet was prepared and the accused was rushed to court where he pled guilty to the charge.
• Transforming Burns Avenue:
  Burns Avenue is as old as San Ignacio Town. This historic avenue has never ever undergone the magnitude of transformation it is currently undergoing. The first phase of the transformation of Burns Avenue was completed in the latter part of last year under the Tourism Municipal Development plan resulting in the total transformation of the middle section of Burns Avenue. The second phase of the project is now underway. It encompasses the total transformation of that section of the avenue from Scotia and Atlantic Banks to the Belize Bank linking it up with the first phase. The Belize Water Services Limited has completed the upgrading of mains and service connections in the area while, this week, the Belize Telecommunications Limited is engaged in likewise upgrading its underground assets in the area. Mayor John August and Councilors of the twin town informed that as soon as the utility companies complete their works and give the green light, the council will immediately take over and proceed with transforming of that section of Burns Avenue like it has never been transformed ever before in the history of the twin town.
• Beware Of Con Artists Roaming The Community:
  San Ignacio police is today issuing a warning to the public in general and to senior citizens in particular, regarding con artists visiting homes within the community. In the latest reported incident, Mrs. Suzette Espat of #1 Church Street, San Ignacio Town reported to the police that during the mid morning hours on Wednesday, May 7, 2014, she was at home when she was visited a man who asked her to loan him an empty gallon container to purchase gasoline for his car that had ran out of fuel. The Good Samaritan reportedly went to another section of the house to get the item requested by the man. A few minutes later she returned with the empty container only to find that the man was gone. Also gone was her blue Samsung Digicell flip phone valued at $70. Quick response on the part of San Ignacio police led, within hours, to the detention of the suspect who was found in possession of the victim's telephone. The suspect, identified as Albert Young, was arrested and charged for theft.
• Apple 'In Talks' To Buy Beats For $3.2bn:
  Technology giant Apple is in talks to buy headphone maker and music-streaming service provider Beats Electronics, according to various media reports. The reports claim Apple could pay as much as $3.2bn (�1.9bn) and a deal could be announced next week. If completed, it will be Apple's biggest ever acquisition. It is being seen as move by Apple to get a stronger foothold in the phone and music accessories business and bolster its online music offerings. The two areas are expected to see fast growth in the coming years. The Financial Times, which was the first to report the talks, cited a source as saying the firms were still negotiating the details. Beats was founded by music producer Jimmy Iovine and the hip-hop star Dr. Dre and until recently was best known for its headphones.
• Heart Attack:
  Heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked long enough for that part of the heart to die or become damaged. A blood clot blocking one of the coronary arteries is the most common cause of a heart attack. Plaque that is made up of cholesterol and other cells can build up on the coronary arteries and cause a heart attack. Plaque can develop cracks or tears to which blood platelets stick, forming a clot. Stress may also contribute to exacerbating plaque buildup and, eventually, heart attacks. The main symptom of a heart attack is chest discomfort, which can feel like pain, a feeling of tightness or indigestion in the chest, a feeling that something is sitting on the chest, or heavy pressure. The pain may last for more than 20 minutes. Other symptoms include anxiety, cough, fainting, light-headedness, nausea or vomiting, palpitations, shortness of breath or sweating. Symptoms may fade and return. Some heart attacks, particularly those in the elderly, people with diabetes or women, may have little or no chest pain. Heart attacks in these groups may also be silent, which means there are no symptoms.
• Did The Surge Of Water From Macal River Dams Cause Loss Of Three lives?:
  It is sad that it takes dead bodies to bring attention to the potential for disaster created by the lack of a workable dam break early warning system for the Chalillo, Vaca and Mollejon Dams. It only takes talking to people in the area to realize that there is no general knowledge of what to do if the dam breaks. It took the deaths of two students from Corozal, Egar Puck and Anahi Zepeda, who "were swept off into depths" of the Macal and drowned, to learn that BECOL releases water from the dams, which causes a rise in the water levels in the area of the bridges connecting San Ignacio and Santa Elena. According to Stephen Usher, BECOL's Vice President of Operations, interviewed after the death of the two students earlier this month, Vaca Dam releases water to generate electricity that reaches San Ignacio around 4:00 pm. But why didn't the public know that information? Just prior to the death of the students, there were two other drownings, one in the Macal River and one a little downstream at Santa Familia where the Macal meets the Mopan River. Over Easter, another drowning occurred in the Belize River, close to Santa Familia.
• Trust Pro Certified - Four Foods That Lower Blood Pressure:
  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 67 million Americans -- approximately one in three adults -- suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure. In 2009 alone, high blood pressure was the primary or contributing cause of almost 350,000 deaths in the United States, which averages at 1,000 deaths per day. The disorder is, in essence, an epidemic in the Western world. Though high blood pressure can be triggered by stress and other external factors, a poor diet remains its single greatest cause. Therefore, consuming foods that are proven to produce significant cardiovascular benefits is a great way to prevent and treat the disorder naturally. The best of these foods are listed below. Garlic, Hot chilis, cacao, and turmeric.
• For The Benefit Of An Entire Community:
  Belize Water Services Limited customers in the San Ignacio, Santa Elena and Esperanza service area have, for many years, been complaining of low water pressure and of late the discoloration in the water piped into their residences. The discoloration has been compounded by changes in the water flow from the upper Macal River. The company recognizes that this quality of service CANNOT continue. In seeking to address this condition, the company has been aggressively exploring possible solutions one of which is the now more frequent flushing and cleaning the storage tank which is taking a toll on those employees assigned this task. Despite last year's 7.2% decrease in water rates, the company undertook the curtailing of capital expenditure to finance the upgrading of its outdated storage and treatment facility in San Ignacio which is over 50 years old.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 18th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• One Charged In BWEL Robbery:
  Just as we were closing off last week's edition of the newspaper, the report came in of a robbery at the BWEL butane service station on Buena Vista Street in San Ignacio Town. San Ignacio police received the robbery report at exactly 5:55 pm on Thursday, May 8, 2014. A team of policemen rushed to the crime scene where they met the still shaken supervisor, Ernest Hill, 46, his 13 year old son and the security guard, Francisco Escobar, 28. Hill told the police that he was with his son in the office when at around 5:50 pm, two barefaced, slim built, male persons of dark complexion, both wearing white caps, stormed into the office. One of the men, wearing a white shirt and khaki short pants, was armed with a rusty looking handgun which he held to the neck of the security guard as he held him in a chokehold.
• Were The Bullets Planted In the Car Itza Drove?:
  Despite his pleas of innocence, a taxi driver from San Jose Succotz Village, Cayo, will be arrested and mandatorily remanded to prison on a possession of ammunition charge. Acting upon information received, a team of policemen from San Ignacio rushed towards Benque Viejo with intent to intercept a small white taxi car in which they were told they would find ammunition. The targeted vehicle was intercepted on the George Price Highway about midway between the western towns of Benque Viejo and San Ignacio.
• Garnett Charged For Theft And Harm:
  Arrested and charged for stealing a sheep and injuring the caretaker of the farm in the process, Deon Garnett, a 36 year old Belizean laborer of a 6th Street address in San Ignacio Town, is out on bail after pleading not guilty to both charges. The incident began to unfold at around 7:30 pm on Sunday, May 11 when a team of policemen on mobile patrol on Bullet Tree Road in San Ignacio Town came upon a male person of fair complexion walking toward town with a newborn black and white lamb across his shoulders. When questioned the man told the police that he has just bought it from a farm further up the road. The man was ordered by the police to take them to farm to confirm his story.
• Health Corner: STROKE:
  What Is a Stroke? A stroke occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a portion of the brain is blocked. Without oxygen, brain cells start to die after a few minutes. Sudden bleeding in the brain also can cause a stroke if it damages brain cells. If brain cells die or are damaged because of a stroke, symptoms occur in the parts of the body that these brain cells control. Examples of stroke symptoms include sudden weakness; paralysis or numbness of the face, arms, or legs (paralysis is an inability to move); trouble speaking or understanding speech; and trouble seeing. A stroke is a serious medical condition that requires emergency care. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death. If you think you or someone else is having a stroke, call 9-1-1 right away. Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency room. During a stroke, every minute counts.
• Mexican Troops 'Kill Zetas Cartel Founder Mellado':
  Mexican security officials say one of the founders of the Zetas drug cartel has been killed in a gun battle in the north-eastern state of Tamaulipas. Galindo Mellado Cruz is accused of being one of the original members of the Zetas, which first emerged as a group of enforcers for the Gulf cartel. The two groups later split and became bitter rivals, their fights accounting for much of the violence in the area. He is believed to be among five gunmen shot dead by the army on Friday. A Tamaulipas state official told the Associated Press news agency that while Mellado no longer held a command position within the Zetas, he had been one of the 30 ex-special forces members to found the group.
• Belizean Book "My Body is Precious" Gets International Recognition:
  "My Body is Precious" has received an Honorable Mention in the category "Best Publication" of the ALAS-IDB Early Childhood Awards. These Awards are presented by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the ALAS Foundation to recognize the commitment of individuals and organizations working in early childhood development in Latin America and the Caribbean. Written by Belizean authors Kim Simplis Barrow and Starla Bradley, "My Body is Precious" provides a basis for talking to children about sexual abuse. Former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, Kinnevik Executive Chairman Cristina Stenbeck, ALAS Foundation President Alejandro Santo Domingo, and IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno presented the distinction as part of the ALAS-IDB Awards Ceremony.
• Twin F150 Ford Trucks For The Twin Towns:
  Thirty eighty brand new heavy duty police vehicles were handed over on Wednesday, May 14, to the Government of Belize by the Government of the United States of America. This latest donation, valued at over two and a half million dollars forms a part of the Central American Regional Security Initiative (CARCI) which to date has implemented over 15 million dollars worth of initiatives relating to Belize. Present for the handing over ceremony along with National Security Ministry CEO George Lovell and Commissioner of Police Allen Whylie, was US Charge d' Affaires Margaret Hawthorne who told the gathering of invited guests that the trucks will be used to improve citizen security. The vehicles have since been dispatched to police formations across the country. Not to be left behind, the San Ignacio Police formation was personally touched with the addition of, not one but two of the heavy Duty Ford F150 super cab pickup trucks. One of the vehicles has been assigned to the Crimes Investigation Branch of the detachment while the other goes to Community Policing.
• Developing The Twin Towns:
  While the opposition People's United Party and its operatives continue with their childish political mischief, the United Democratic Party Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Dean Barrow, continues to develop the nation with the Hon. Rene Montero, Area Representative for Cayo Central and Minister of Works and Transport, bringing major development to San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The total transformation of La Loma Luz Boulevard in Santa Elena and the Joseph Andrews Drive in San Ignacio, complete with a first ever two lane bridge across the Macal, have got to be the very most any government has ever done for the twin municipalities. Notwithstanding this major accomplishment, a five million dollar expenditure on signature sporting projects is on the horizon. The realization of this project will bring to reality major transformation to the Falcon Field in San Ignacio and the Santa Elena football stadium. Area Representative/ Minister of Works, Hon. Rene Montero informed that in addition to improving sporting facilities in each of the two towns, this five million dollar project will create additional employment for the residents of both towns as well as for residents from surrounding villages.
• "Ageing in Belize":
  The National Council on Ageing takes great pleasure in announcing the launch of the documentary "Ageing in Belize" Featuring interviews with older persons across the country this short film illustrates some to the main concerns and typifies the issues that many older persons face in their struggle to maintain health and wellbeing on a daily basis. Ageing can be a joy to some when surrounded by loved ones who make later years comfortable but for others getting older is a sad and lonely experience especially when faced with debilitating illness and disability. The Ageing in Belize documentary is not designed to frighten viewers, although it might well touch a few heartstrings, but to education and enlighten those who do not think about the ageing process.
• The Transformation Of Far West Street:
  Last week we told you about total transformation of the upper portion of Burns Avenue between, Atlantic/Scotia Banks on the upper end and the Belize Bank at the lower end. It is with much please this week that we report on the total transformation started this week on Far West Street also in San Ignacio Town. Residents of Far West Street informed that they have never seen this kind of attention being afforded to their street. One resident said that the temporary inconvenience caused by the project is a minor price to pay for the much needed development in their street. Mayor John August informed that the council has for a long time realized the need to upgrade Far West Street as that as soon as the funds were made available last week, the council immediately jumped on the opportunity to bring to fruition the long time desire of the council to improve Far West Street.
• Two Meals A Day 'Effective' To Treat Type 2 Diabetes:
  Only eating breakfast and lunch may be more effective at managing type 2 diabetes than eating smaller, more regular meals, scientists say. Researchers in Prague fed two groups of 27 people the same calorie diet spread over two or six meals a day. They found volunteers who ate two meals a day lost more weight than those who ate six, and their blood sugar dropped. Experts said the study supported "existing evidence" that fewer, larger meals were the way forward. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin, which controls the amount of sugar in the blood, meaning blood sugar levels become too high.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The May 25th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Aaron Juan Remanded On Another Sex Related Charge:
  Having been on the run for over five months, a businessman from San Ignacio Town accompanied by an attorney, today turned himself in to the police to be charged. San Ignacio police reports that around midmorning on Tuesday, May 20, Aaron Elijah Juan, 33, Belizean businessman of a Burns Avenue address in San Ignacio Town, accompanied by Belize City based attorney, Richard "Dickie" Bradley, walked into the police station in effect turning in himself to face a carnal knowledge charge.
• Five Guatemalans On A Drug Trafficking Charge:
  Five Guatemalans, one of which is a naturalized Belizean, were found in a car on the George Price Highway with 18 pounds of marijuana suspected to be of Guatemalan origin. San Ignacio police reports that the Guatemalans were moving the sack of weed during the wee hours of the morning on Tuesday, May 20. The report indicated that at around 3:00 am, a joint operation mounted by elements of the police Anti Drug Unit (ADU), police Mobile Interdiction Unit (MIT), police K-9 Unit and Customs personnel were manning a checkpoint on the George Price Highway between the western towns of San Ignacio and Benque Viejo, at mile 68, near Rumors Resort, when a green Geo Prism car with San Ignacio/Satna Elena license plates C-01281, pulled up to the check point. The car, with five occupants including the driver, was stopped and searched. Inside the trunk of the car police came upon a white sack and when opened, it was found to contain two black plastic bags with 11 parcels of marijuana.
• Belize City Man Guilty Of San Ignacio Theft:
  A man who told the police that the lives on Antelope Street in Belize City today pled guilty of a theft charge after he was caught by an alert off duty policemen a few minutes after snatching a lady's sling bag. The incident occurred at around 6:00 am on Sunday May 18 when a hardworking vegetable vendor from Santa Familia village, Cayo was sitting under the Falcon Field bus stop waiting for the bus to travel on business to Belize City. The lady told the police that after sitting under the bus stop for about 15 minutes a tall male person of fair complexion, wearing a black � Jeans pant, a black "Los Angeles" baseball cap and a black T-Shirt, arrived at the bus stop. She heard when the man said that he had lost his telephone. He walked to the back of the shed as if searching for something and this was when he grabbed the lady's black sling bag she had on her lap and ran off.
• Guatemalan Ex-President Alfonso Portillo Jailed In US:
  A court in New York has sentenced former Guatemalan President Alfonso Portillo to five years and 10 months in jail for taking bribes from Taiwan. Portillo, who was extradited to the United States last year, has also been ordered to pay a $2.5m fine. He pleaded guilty in March to attempting to launder the illegal money through American banks. The judge has not decided whether he will serve the remainder of his sentence in the US or Guatemala. Portillo has already spent a substantial amount of time in jail and has only another 18 months of his sentence to serve. The time in jail was "a big learning experience for me but also great pain for my family", Portillo said in court.
• Secret Passages-An Art Show Opening At The Soul Project:
  This new exhibit features works of collage by people from all over the world visiting Belize. Collage is a very interesting medium. In collage, the artist assembles existing print material into a new format, a new picture. The artist creates a new context for the text or images selected, as they appear in the collage in relationship to one another. The seeming randomness of the selection and reassembly leaves a lot of room for subconscious free association by the artist, but also by the viewer. Collage invites us to link images together in an instantaneous impression, the first look. Our minds scan for patterns and similarities and differences, in an instant we form an idea about what we see. See Secret Passages for yourself, and let your mind expand...showing until etc date at Soul Project in San Ignacio.
• Cholesterol:
  To understand high blood cholesterol (ko-LES-ter-ol), it helps to learn about cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs. However, cholesterol also is found in some of the foods you eat. Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream in small packages called lipoproteins (lip-o-PRO-teens). These packages are made of fat (lipid) on the inside and proteins on the outside. Two kinds of lipoproteins carry cholesterol through -out your body: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high- density lipoproteins (HDL). Having healthy levels of both types of lipoproteins is important.
• What Is Commonwealth Or Sovereign's Day?:
  Commonwealth or Sovereign's Day, as it is known to us today, is the annual celebration of the Commonwealth of Nations an inter-governmental organization of 54 independent or sovereign states. The origin of this day came about in 1884 when Lord Rosebery, while visiting Australia (then under British governance), observed the changes in the British Empire. His observation was that some of its colonies were becoming increasingly independent. He was the first to address this issue and the first to refer to the states as the "Commonwealth of Nations" while still under the British rule. His observation lead to the first consultation between Britain and its colonies to address this emerging need for independence. It was not until 1931, however, that the first 5 colonies became recognized as the "British Commonwealth of Nations". These nations included Canada, the United Kingdom, Irish Free State, Newfoundland, and the Union of South Africa. In 1946, the 'British' was dropped from the name and the member states became known officially as the Commonwealth of Nations or simply The Commonwealth. Over the years, members joined, withdrew from, and even rejoined the Commonwealth; but it wasn't until 1949 that the international organization became the modern Commonwealth we know today. In 1952, Queen Elizabeth took her place as the Head of the Commonwealth of Nations after the death of her father King George IV.
• Closing Days Of The Embassy of Mexico:
  The Mexican Embassy's offices in Belmopan, Belize City and Corozal will suspend activities on Monday, 26 May 2014. In case of emergency, Mexican nationals can request consular assistance or protection at the telephone number: + (501) 602- 8677. Belizeans are reminded that they do not require visa to visit Mexico. They only need to present a valid Belizean passport and fill out the immigration form called "Forma Migratoria M�ltiple" (FMM). It can be obtained at any Mexican border or at any airport.
• VA Hospital Officials Shredded Documents To Hide Existence Of Secret Waiting Lists That Killed U.S. Veterans:
  The horrific Veterans Administration scandal, in which scores of patients on a "secret list" reportedly died after spending as long as a year without treatment, has widened. CNN correspondent Jake Tapper recently grilled White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough over President Obama's usual scandal posture: indifference, holding no one accountable and calculated outrage without any real action being taken. As noted by Breitbart News, Obama is currently standing by his secretary of Veterans Affairs, former Army Gen. Eric Shinseki. This is in spite of the fact that, in 2013, Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Fla., the chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, sent the president a letter that, Tapper reported, warned "of dramatic problems at the VA, 'a perfect illustration of the management failures, deception, lack of accountability permeating VA's health care system [and] an alarming pattern of serious and significant patient care issues.'" 'But you are not. This letter was sent a year ago.'
• Impoved Water Services:
  The Belize Water Service Limited is proud to announce the upgrading of water services to customers in the lower section of Santa Elena Town and the entire Esperanza Village. The upgraded service includes the recent replacement of the three inch water line upgraded to a ten inch main which will serve to increase water pressure to customers in the area. The project, implemented over the past three weeks, with a crew under the direction of William Stevens and Operations Supervisor, Ron Cunningham, worked long hours to install, sanitize, pressure test and energize the new 10 inch water main. The works was completed on Tuesday evening and when it was turned on, a major glitch was immediately detected resulting in customers on one side the Highway leading into Esperanza Village being left without water.
• STAR Humor
• Editorial: Drastic Times Calls For Drastic Measures:
  There was a time, in the not so distant past, when gun related murders were spiraling out of control especially on the south side of the old capital, Belize City. After careful study, analysis and consultation, the government of the day, charged with the responsibility for citizens' security, stepped up to the challenge resulting in the imposition of stiff, some might say draconian, amendments to the firearms act. Coupled with other measures, the nation began recording a decrease in gun related murders, resulting last year in the recording of a drastic reduction in, what many termed as, the senseless loss of life "on the mean streets of the city".
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 1st, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Two Drug Traffickers Fined And Confined:
  Utter astonishment was the expression of the faces of two convicted drug traffickers today when San Ignacio Town magistrate Narda Morgan ordered for them to be fined and to be confined to prison. The police case against the two Belizean men from San Jose Succotz, Cayo began on a Sunday morning, September 16, 2012 when, at around 9:30, acting upon information received, two policemen intercepted, near the Macal River Park in San Ignacio Town, a black Toyota Corolla car with Benque Viejo Town taxi license plates BVO-D-00364. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Alfredo Marin, 38 at the time. Seated on the opposite side of the driver, in the back seat of the car, was another male person who was later identified as Jaime Tun, 25 at the time. As Tun sat in the back seat of the car, police saw a black and blue knapsack between his legs on the floor of the car.
• Recording The Sudden Passing Of Michael Lewis:
  We join the community in the expression of deepest sympathy to Aunt Lou and her family at today's sudden passing of her son Michael Anthony Lewis. Mike was a neighbor and a childhood friend. He was an easy going person who spent all his life next to his mother, retired primary school teacher, Mrs. Louise Lewis, who describes him as a caring son and shoulder she could always lean on. He religiously attended the Santa Elena Catholic Church with his mother and sisters. His sudden passing on Sunday shocked the community as he was active right up to the time of his departing this earthly life on Sunday, May 25, 2014. Michael was a career public officer. Immediately after graduating from Sacred Heart High School, Michael began working in Belmopan. His public service career spanned over 30 years during which he worked in the Ministry of the Public Service; the Office of the Prime Minister and, at the time of his passing, he was serving as the Finance Officer in the Ministry of Labour, Local Government, Rural Development, National Emergency Management Organization and Immigration and Nationality.
• Coming Soon - The First Cement Street In the History Of Santa Elena Town:
  The office of Cayo Central's Area Representative, Hon. Rene Montero today announced that government funds has now been allotted for the historic concreting of the very first street in the Santa Elena, Cayo. The street selected for this historic transformation is Bishop Martin Street. Apart from providing employment for residents in the community, the almost 800 thousand dollar project will enhance the area and increase the value of all those properties in the area. Minister Montero informed that with the intersected Perez Street and Loma Luz Boulevard already asphalted, the concreted Bishop Martin Street will enhance the environment of those living in the area including the lives of teachers and the hundreds of students attending Santa Elena Primary school the largest primary school in the town.
• A Plan To Capture Young Minds As A Bulwark Against Poverty And Crime:
  It is a well known fact that if we can capture the minds of the young in a positive, constructive way, we can mold a future generation of great achievers its people can be proud of. If we can get them interested in education and learning at an early age, it is quite likely, that for a majority, this zeal will continue through adolescence and adulthood, and may provide a bulwark against poverty and crime. Belize is a developing country with many of the attendant problems of one. Statistics on poverty and crime reflect the dire need for better education and training which could result in gainful employment for our graduates and young people. Such an outcome, obviously, requires the full active participation of parents, schools, churches, government, industry, media, and civil society. In other words, it does take a village, a neighborhood, a family, to raise a child. While it is difficult sometimes to overcome the ills which create poverty and hopelessness, we as a society need to create a mindset in our youths that that despair is not insurmountable, and that things can be better through preparation now in school for a better life, a preparation that begins at the primary school level.
• A Senior Citizen Allegedly Abused:
  As a productive citizen of this community, I cannot allow for the abuse of my elderly father, at the hands of a policeman attached to the station in San Ignacio, to just disappear under the radar. I am publicizing this incident in the hope that such ill treatment does not befall another person, more so an elderly citizen in my community or anywhere else in this beautiful country of ours. I know that this kind of official abuse is not tolerated by the Government of the day, the current Minister of Police or the Commissioner of Police. So I ask, "Why is it then that some police abuse the very people they are sworn to serve and protect despite the clear mandate of those to whom they must answer?" The only answer that comes to mind is disrespect and the lack of discipline. Disrespect for the uniform they wear and disrespect for their superiors.
• Ariel Rosado Foundation:
  It was a RIDE for Scholarships� a RIDE for Healthy Living�� a RIDE for fun! Just before 1:00 pm on Saturday May 10th 2014 about 150 cyclists rolled into the Hour Bar and Grill Compound, Newtown Barracks in Belize City. This marked the culmination of a very successful Third Ariel Rosado Annual Bike Ride. The ride started at 6:15 a.m. from Galen University in Central Farm and cruised the 75 miles to The Hour Bar & Grill in Belize City at an average speed of 15 miles per hour. There were rest stops at the Galen Campus in Belmopan, Cheers on the George Price Highway and at the CD Gas Station on the Burrell Boom Road. After its Third Year the Ariel Rosado Annual Bike Ride is being described by knowledgeable members of the cycling community as the best organized and managed Bike Ride in Belize. The Board of Directors of the Ariel Rosado Foundation extends a sincere THANK YOU to all RIDERS, WORKERS, SPONSORS and SUPPORTERS whose participation made it possible to keep the mission and vision of the ARIEL ROSADO FOUNDATION alive.
• Obesity:
  An obese person has accumulated so much body fat that it might have a negative effect on their health. If a person's bodyweight is at least 20% higher than it should be, he or she is considered obese. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is between 25 and 29.9 you are considered overweight. If your BMI is 30 or over you are considered obese. What is Body Mass Index (BMI)? The BMI is a statistical measurement derived from your height and weight. Although it is considered to be a useful way to estimate healthy body weight, it does not measure the percentage of body fat. The BMI measurement can sometimes be misleading - a muscleman may have a high BMI but have much less fat than an unfit person whose BMI is lower. However, in general, the BMI measurement can be a useful indicator for the 'average person'. Why do people become obese? People become obese for several reasons, including: Body mass measurement, consuming too many calories.
• St. Martin's Credit Union Celebrates Its 65th Annual General Meeting:
  St. Martin Credit Union (SMCU) celebrated its 65th Annual General Meeting at the Octavia Waight Center Auditorium. A large number of credit union members from San Ignacio, Santa Elena, Benque Viejo and surrounding communities came to celebrate the occasion. Master of Ceremony for the occasion was Rene Torres, vice president of SMCU. The VP welcomed everyone and introduced the Board of Directors after which the meeting was called to order by Dr. John Morris, president of SMCU with the singing of the National Anthem with background music provided by the Marimba Academy of Benque Viejo's House of Culture.
• Ex-Ecuador President Mahuad Sentenced To 12 Years In Jail:
  A court in Ecuador has sentenced former President Jamil Mahuad in absentia to 12 years in jail for embezzlement. The ruling comes two days after Interpol issued a warrant for his arrest. He denies any wrongdoing. Mr Mahuad fled to the United States in 2000 after a military coup. He was accused of ordering banks to close for several days and freezing the accounts of ordinary citizens to protect the interests of bankers associated with him. The decision, taken in March 1999, came during a serious economic crisis.
• Truth Or Lie:
  A mother in jail on a report made by her 11 year old daughter. San Ignacio police this week reported the disturbing news of a mother remanded to prison for allegedly prostituting her 11 year old daughter. While the report is disturbing, the information bears several inconsistencies as the child, residing in a Cayo village with a Or Lie guardian, reported the matter 4 months later, on May 16, 2014. Furthermore, the report indicates that the alleged incident occurred throughout the entire month of December 2013, from the 1st right up to the 31st December 2013 when she was staying with her mother who at the time was residing in Dangriga. The child was medically examined and the medical practitioner certified that child has experienced activity of a sexual nature.
• Dam break early warning system:
  The Belize Electric Company Limited (BECOL) in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), and the Department of Environment (DOE) hosted a public discussion for the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena on Friday, May 16 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cayo Welcome Center in San Ignacio Town to discuss matters relating to the dam break early warning system. Announcements via local radio and television were sent out for public notice on May 6 2014 informing the public of the venue and time of the event. The original venue was Hode's Place San Ignacio Town. A change of venue from Hode's Place to the Cayo Welcome Center was agreed after discussion with BECOL, DOE and NEMO. Announcements with the revised venue were sent to the local radio and television stations on May 8 and 9, 2014. Flyers were distributed on May 12 2014 to the various businesses in San Ignacio Town and Santa Elena Town. The announcements were publicized until May 16, 2014. This annual event is to educate the public on what to do in the event of a dam break. The Early Warning System (EWS) is part of the Emergency Preparedness Plan (EPP) and is designed to alert the public of a possible dam break. The public education session educates the public on where the safe zones are located. Signs are also installed to guide the public to the safe zones. The education process is conducted with the assistance of audio visuals and maps to sensitize the audience of the areas that would be inundated. This exercise targets the stakeholders along the Macal and Mopan Rivers and is executed by visiting the schools and conducting public education sessions in the villages, towns and resorts.
• Remembering Maya Angelou A Phenomenal Woman!:
  Marguerite Johnson was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 4, 1928, the second child of Bailey Johnson, a doorman and a navy dietitian, and Vivian (Baxter) Johnson, a nurse and card dealer. Angelou's older brother, Bailey Jr., nicknamed Marguerite "Maya", derived from "My" or "Mya Sister". When Angelou was three and her brother four, their parents' "calamitous marriage" ended, and their father sent them to Stamps, Arkansas, alone by train, to live with their paternal grandmother, Annie Henderson. In "an astonishing exception" to the harsh economics of African- Americans of the time, Angelou's grandmother prospered financially during the Great Depression and World War II because the general store she owned sold needed basic commodities and because "she made wise and honest investments".
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 15th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Mother And Sons Arrested For Drugs:
  Monday, June 9, 2014: The sharp nose of a police dog picked up the scent of marijuana through a floor covering, a wooden floor, a plastic bag and a covered plastic container , and it landed a mother and her two sons in problems with the law. It was shortly after 12 noon on Thursday, June 5 when a team of four policemen along with Tungee, said to be one of the sharpest police dogs in the Canine Unit, descended upon an upstairs wooden house on 5th Street in San Ignacio Town to conduct a search for drugs. Within minutes of entering the house, Tungee alerted its handler of the presence of drugs by sitting on a spot in the living room. When the marley floor covering was lifted, police found an unfastened board covering a cavity in the floor from which the police retrieved a black plastic bag with two covered plastic containers both loaded with marijuana. Present at the time of the search was a 78 year old grandmother, in the company of Martha Alicia Ralda, 46, and her two sons, William Ralda, 22 and his 17 year old brother.
• Policeman Charged For Attempt Murder:
  Three policemen and a special constable driver, members of San Ignacio Police Quick Response Team (QRT) all facing criminal charges, are on interdiction from active duty. The lives of Corporal #443 Ricky Valencia, Constables #1330 Maxwell Valerio and #1010 Jesus Marroquin along with Special Constable, driver, Ernesto Budna began changing at the break of the new day on Monday, May 26, 2014. Patrolling the George Price Highway the team drove up to Blackman Eddy Village and turned at the junction with the road into Spanish Lookout at the Iguana Creek. On the way back to base they came upon a group of four men in Unitedville on their way home from a wake in the village.
• Editorial: Life Is Dynamic:
  Life is in constant evolution. Nothing lasts forever, this is the nature of the phenomenon we call life. This week former educator/ politician, Mr. Eulogio Cano tell us that Sacred Heart Roman Catholic High School started 54 years ago in a room downstairs the Stork Club, the busiest and most popular bar in San Ignacio Town in that era. Today, it is not permissible to open and operate a bar anywhere near a school much less a high school where students are more mature. Our gun laws were once slack until the senseless spate of gun violence showed its ugly head especially on the south side streets of the old capital. This development necessitated the passage of stringent, some might say, draconian gun laws. Today, the gun violence has somewhat abated. Some among us are now calling for the slacking of the gun laws. We change with the current time fit prevailing circumstances and conditions. Such is life.
• Ashton Tillett Is This Year's Top PSE Performer:
  The results of this year's Primary School Examinations are out recording Ashton Tillett from Crooked Tree Government School, in the Belize District, as this year's top performer. Today's announcement sparked an outburst of joy, first on the school compound in Crooked Tree and later thoughtout the entire Village. We join in congratulating Ashton on this great achievement and wish him all the best as he proceeds on to the high school of his choice which we understand is Edward P. Yorke. Ashton Tillett The
• Three Men Injured In Bar Brawl:
  A brawl in a western village bar has left two men wounded and with criminal counter charges again each other. The report of a stabbing incident in Billy White Village Cayo was received by San Ignacio police at around 5:00 am on Saturday, June 7. A team of policemen, under the command of Sgt 651 S Bowden, rushed to the village and first to the home of Gumercindo Pop where they found Pop, visibly drunk, with stab wounds to the head, chest, shoulder and back. Pop told the police that he was at a bar in the village earlier that morning when and argument erupting resulting in him being attacked by brothers Santos and Roberto Chacon and a 15 year old boy.
• World Cup 2014 Kicks Off With Colourful Ceremony:
  The 2014 Fifa World Cup officially got under way on Thursday with a colourful opening ceremony before hosts Brazil beat Croatia 3-1 in the first match. A cast of 660 dancers paid tribute to the country's nature, people and football with a show around a "living" ball on the Arena de Sao Paulo pitch. The final act saw a performance of official World Cup song "We Are One" by Jennifer Lopez and rapper Pitbull. The month-long tournament sees 32 nations compete in 64 games. Many fans took to the streets to sing and chant their support for Brazil as excitement built in the hours before the tournament began.
• Father's Day Canoe Race:
  The Father's Day Canoe Race co-sponsored by the Black Orchid Resort and SeaSure Real Estate is set for Sunday, June 15th, 2014. The race will start in Flowers Bank Village at 9:00am and will end at the Black Orchid Resort in Burrell Boom. The first canoes should be arriving around midday. This race will have all categories, Male, Female, Mixed, Masters, Juniors, Pleasure and Intramural, it's opened for anyone to participate. Registration can be done the morning before the race starting at 8:00am, however, early registration is accepted. The registration form is available on our website at www.bcanoe.bz. Race Registration fee is $50.
• Malaria:
  Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease of humans and other animals caused by parasitic protozoans (a type of unicellular microorganism) of the genus Plasmodium. Commonly, the disease is transmitted by a bite from an infected female Anopheles mosquito, which introduces the organisms from its saliva into a person's circulatory system. In the blood, the parasites travel to the liver to mature and reproduce. Malaria causes symptoms that typically include fever and headache, which in severe cases can progress to coma or death. The signs and symptoms of malaria typically begin 8-25 days following infection; however, symptoms may occur later in those who have taken antimalarial medications as prevention. Initial manifestations of the disease-common to all malaria species-are similar to flu-like symptoms, and can resemble other conditions such as septicemia, gastroenteritis, and viral diseases. The presentation may include headache, fever, shivering, joint pain, vomiting, hemolytic anemia, jaundice, hemoglobin in the urine, retinal damage, and convulsions.
• Sacred Heart College - 50 Successful Years:
  Sacred Heart College will be holding graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2014 on Saturday, June 14 in the auditorium on the school compound. This is a significant year in the history of Sacred Heart College as it will simultaneously celebrate the golden anniversary of the first graduating class, the class of 1964. Invited to deliver an address in celebration of this historic occasion is Mr. Eulogio Cano from the Class of 1964. We had a chance to speak with Mr. Cano earlier this week and what he told us was quite interesting. He told us that Sacred Heart Roman Catholic College began in 1960 through the efforts of Fr. Osmond Peter Martin (retired Bishop) and Fr. Facundo Castillo. It started with an enrollment of 31 students of which 19 graduated in 1964. The first classroom was housed downstairs of the Stork Club on Hudson Street, in front of Blue Angels Night Club where it remained for an entire year. In the second year however, with the addition of a second batch of students starting first form, the school moved across the street to more spacious accommodations in a building where the Hudson Chinese stores is currently located. It later moved to the Sacred Heart Primary School compound where they remained until graduation.
• Brazil World Cup: Clashes At Sao Paulo and Rio Protests:
  Police clashed with protesters in Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and several other host cities on Thursday as the World Cup got under way in Brazil. Officers used tear gas on crowds in Sao Paulo hours before Brazil's team beat Croatia 3-1 in the opening match. Several people were also injured after scuffles broke out in Rio de Janeiro. Protesters are angry at how much the government has spent on preparations for the World Cup and the Olympics, which Rio will host in 2016. There were violent clashes in the city of Belo Horizonte, where England will play Costa Rica Earlier, striking airport workers in Rio de Janeiro blocked a road outside the airport, demanding a wage increase and a World Cup bonus. The strike was to have lasted for 24 hours but union leaders called it off early for legal reasons.
• World Cup Schedule:
  Full schedule of group games (until the knockout round starts).
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 22nd, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Prowler Gets Five Years:
  The ten month burglary case against Michael "Prowler" Harrison, 52, ended today in a guilty verdict and a five year jail sentence. Harrison, usually shirtless, moves around town on horseback, of late however, he has been walking around town and, when recently asked, informed that his horse had been stolen. He is not a known trouble maker but in this instance he was reportedly caught inflagante delecto (in the act of committing the crime) inside the downstairs storeroom of the KO-OX-HAN-NAH restaurant located on Burns Avenue in San Ignacio Town. The restaurant manager reported to the police that at around 12:30 pm on August 12, 2013 as she was about to enter the downstairs storeroom she heard movements therein. At first she thought that a coworker was in the storeroom.
• Silva's Murder Trial Set For September:
  Accused murderer Michael Silva, accompanied by defense attorney, Richard "Dickie" Bradley, appeared today in the San Ignacio Town courtroom of magistrate Narda Morgan for the preliminary inquiry into the September 23, 2011 murder of 19 year old Maritza Santos. On hand in court to marshal the evidence was the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs. Cheryl-Lynn Vidal who, apart from statements, tendered in evidence a piece of wood and a bottle containing herbicide. At the conclusion of the process today Bradley is reported to have made no submission. The trail was set for hearing in the September 2014 session of the Supreme Court.
• A New Era Is Blanketing Belize:
  While a very small minority is desperately seeking to convince the majority of Belizeans that not much is happening in terms of development and construction in Belize, the undisputed evidence is proving otherwise. Those involved in the construction industry are reporting the regular scarcity of construction material especially cement and blocks. Business persons engaged in the cement distribution business and the block making operations are reporting robust sales. Government's street concreting and the accompanying drain construction projects are consuming a large portion of the increasing inventory of these materials posing extreme difficulties for business persons to keep up with the increasing demand. It is anticipated, that as the unprecedented transformation of streets and roads continues countrywide, the demand for these materials will only increase.
• Weed Linked to Santa Elena Boy:
  Police say that a 16 year old boy, believed to be the courier for a drug dealer, was caught with a sack containing 18 pounds of weed. The report indicates that at around 8:40 am two policemen on motorcycle were on patrol on Bradley Street in Santa Elena town near the football field when their attention was drawn to a suspicious male person of dark complexion standing near a brown sack in the football field. He was wearing a black shirt and a brown � pants. By the time the police circled and entered the enclosed facility, the person had disappeared. The brown sack was left at the very spot where it was originally seen. When inspected, the sack was found to contain suspected marijuana. Police also came upon a pair of black and grey slippers near the sack of weed.
• Beware Of That Fire Water:
  Those within and outside the police department awaiting the fall, on a domestic violence charge, of a police constable attached to the San Ignacio precinct, might be disappointed to know that a fall there might not be as the complainant has reportedly indicated that she wishes to proceeded no further with the matter against the policeman. It is reported however, that the police will nevertheless proceed with slapping constable #101 Fermin Choco with a common assault charge as soon as he is located which is proving challenging as he is currently on vacation. Police believe that this latest development should prompt PC Choco to pick up the charge from his base station and face the court where the wife will take the witness stand and inform the court that she desires to proceed no further with the matter.
• Garifuna Communities In Belize Face Major Crisis With Employment, Lots, Housing, Lands and Education:
  When the Garifuna people first arrived in Belize in 1801 and subsequently thereafter, from Rotan and Honduras, they went to Belize City first and then settled in Dangriga Town. From there they scattered to other southern parts of the country of Belize in the Districts of Stann Creek and Toledo to establish villages and towns. Today, the Garifuna communities in Belize are; Dangriga Town the largest, Hopkins, Georgetown, Barranco and Punta Gorda Town the second largest. Another village where Garifuna people lived in the past was Bomba which is located in the Belize District in the area of Maskall Village. Most of these Garifuna people have completely lost their culture and all they have left is some of their names like; Elijio, Parchue, Ramirez and Castro. Some of them accept their Garifuna culture but others prefer to be described as Creoles.
• Public Participation Committee Must Interact With The Public:
  Last month, Fortis-BECOL (who owns and operates the dams on the Macal River) had an information table at the San Ignacio Visitor's Center. The stated purpose was to inform people about the Emergency Preparedness Plan and Early Warning System and "interact with the various presenters". I spoke to representatives of the Department of Environment and NEMO, and was told "yes" when I asked if I could give comments/suggestions. I made suggestions on how to improve people's awareness of the warning system and a way to test it. But no one wrote anything down. This led to my giving a written statement of my comments and an invitation to present my ideas at the next meeting of the Public Participation Committee (PPC), pending their approval.
• Lupus:
  Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system becomes hyperactive and attacks normal, healthy tissue. This results in symptoms such as inflammation, swelling, and damage to joints, skin, kidneys, blood, the heart, and lungs. Under normal function, the immune system makes proteins called antibodies in order to protect and fight against antigens such as viruses and bacteria. Lupus makes the immune system unable to differentiate between antigens and healthy tissue. This leads the immune system to direct antibodies against the healthy tissue - not just antigens - causing swelling, pain, and tissue damage. Several different kinds of lupus have been identified, but the type that we refer to simply as lupus is known as systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE. Other types include discoid (cutaneous), drug-induced, and neonatal. Patients with discoid lupus have a version of the disease that is limited to the skin. It is characterized by a rash that appears on the face, neck, and scalp, and it does not affect internal organs. Less than 10% of patients with discoid lupus progress into the systemic form of the disease, but there is no way to predict or prevent the path of the disease.
• New Sport To Offer New Hope For Youth:
  The disconnect between youth and society at large is a real problem throughout Belize, particularly in densely populated areas where there is little opportunity for employment, and community facilities and services are stretched to breaking point. With unused reserves of energy and a need to be doing something, many young people end up taking the wrong path contributing to high rates of street and gang crime. But a new sport project aims to change all that. * The fastest growing sport in the world today is coming to Belize - Rugby Union is making its first appearance with the Hattieville United Youth Sports Club * Belize is the last in the region to join the worldwide rugby family, as plans revealed to launch the sport nationwide under the Belize Rugby Board
• Luis Suarez Left England On The Brink Of A World Cup Exit As His Double Strike Gave Uruguay Victory In Sao Paulo:
  Liverpool striker Suarez was making his return after a month out following knee surgery - and it proved to be bad timing for England and manager Roy Hodgson as his brilliance was the difference in a fiercelyfought encounter. Suarez put Uruguay ahead with a first-half header then scored a superb winner six minutes from time after Wayne Rooney's first goal at a World Cup gave England hope of avoiding a second successive Group D loss. But defeat means the odds are now stacked against England escaping this tough group. They will be out unless Italy - who overcame England in Manaus - beat Costa Rica on Friday.
• Mass Grave Found In Eastern Mexico:
  There is no word on the cause of deaths and officials have warned that the number of corpses could rise. The region has seen fierce fighting between rival drug gangs. Thousands of Central American migrants pass through the state each year, heading to the US. Drug related violence in Mexico has left more than 85,000 people dead since 2007. The grave was found after an anonymous call at a farm near the border with Oaxaca state. Marines are guarding the area as investigators try to recover more bodies, and start the process of identifying those already unearthed. In recent years, Mexican authorities have discovered several mass graves with hundreds of corpses of victims of the drug gangs who fight for control of territories useful to their trade.
• Transforming The Tower Hill Airstrip In Orange Walk:
  As the unprecedented development continues countrywide, ground was broken today in Orange Walk for the rehabilitation of the Tower Hill Airstrip on the outskirts of Chan Pine Ridge Village. The onsite official ceremony began at 10:00 am with Dylon Jones serving as Master of Ceremony. In delivering the welcome address, UDP Standard Bearer for the Orange Walk East constituency and member of the new Board of Directors of the Belize Airports Authority, Elodio Aragon Jr. informed the gathering of invited guests that the rehabilitation project will transform the facility into an all weather airstrip which cannot presently be utilized in raining conditions. Aragon additionally informed that the project, combined with last week's ground breaking for the asphalting of the 4.5 miles of the Philip Goldson Highway passing through Orange Walk Town, is a clear testimony of a government at work. He promised to pave the 2 miles of road leading into Chan Pine Ridge village.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The June 29th 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Guerra GoesTo Jail Again:
  A troubled Santa Elena man was today remanded to prison on gun and ammunition charges. Residents of Carmen Street in Santa Elena got a scare of their lives on Monday when Rodel Guerra, 27, busted out of his father's #14 Carmen Street house brandishing a 16 gauge shotgun and a pocket load of cartridges. The matter was reported to the police who promptly arrived on the scene just in time to see Guerra ridding himself of the shotgun and cartridges before fleeing the scene.
• Getting Our Share Of The National Development Pie:
  As the unprecedented building of the nation continues, San Ignacio and Santa Elena are getting its fair share of the national development pie. A new cemented round-about is now in full operation at the junction of the George Price Highway and La Loma Luz Boulevard in Santa Elena. We can hardly remember what the area looked like prior to this major improvement. The entire length of La Loma Boulevard is properly paved complete with cemented sidewalks on both sides. Steel light poles with underground wiring have replaced those old and leaning wooden lamp posts with their spider web of crisscrossing overhead high tension electrical cables that once dangerously hung overhead along La Loma Luz Boulevard. Construction is now underway for the first ever two lane bridge across the Macal River connecting La Loma Luz Boulevard in Santa Elena to Joseph Andrews Drive in San Ignacio. A new roadway has been constructed through the Golden Orange orchard linking the new bridge with Joseph Andrews Drive.
• THE DOMESTICATION OF A PEOPLE:
  By Leonides Sanchez, Punta Gorda, Toledo. The domestication of a people and how can we turn this dilemma around: In town where I live there are several cats around my house and yet I don't really own none. What I have observed is that while I am aware of the natural skills of a cat to be able to feed itself by hunting, they prefer to resort to begging and eventual stealing your food. I brought this up because our people are in a similar situation. The human being was gifted with a brain to be able to think and skills to be able to survive and overcome obstacles but somewhere along the way domestication interfered with the natural process. Now instead of our people resorting to their natural skills to do the feed themselves, they chose instead to resort to begging and eventually deprive others. This is a real situation. My question now is how do we turn this around so that our people can regain back their natural instincts to do for themselves? I believe that a new kind of education has to be introduced to the children.
• Rotary Club is Refurbishing Park in Santa Elena:
  The Rotary Club of San Ignacio is planning ahead for the traffic on the by-pass coming to San Ignacio soon. Just a short block away from the new traffic circle in front of the La Loma Luz SDA Hospital,there is a community park sponsored by the Rotary Club. Club members raised concerns about the safety of children and families using the park since there will be a great deal more traffic on the Loma Luz Boulevard. The long term goal of the Club is to give the park a new look and upgrade the play equipment and features. The first step for the makeover of the park was safety. The park now has a sturdy chain link fencing around three sides of the area. This will keep children away from the busy highway of the future. This effort was funded by money for the Rotary District. The Belize Fence company gave the Club a very helpful discount on the fencing material and the Rotoract Club of San Ignacio members participated in put the fence in place.
• Office of the Prime Minister Responds to Attacks on Justice Awich:
  The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has noted with concern the continued attacks by some lawyers on Justice of Appeal Mr. Samuel Awich. These attacks, using the Belize Bar Association Resolution as their springboard, are contemptuous and contemptible. They seek to scandalize the Belize Court of Appeal by alleging bias on the part of a member of that court, and may well be actionable by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Indeed, even from the English common law, it is considered contempt to "prejudice mankind [by speech or writing] in favour of or against a party before the case is heard" and the same principle is reflected in the laws of Belize where it is stated to be an offence to write or do anything "with intent to excite any popular prejudice for or against any party to [court] proceedings."
• Mother, Daughter and Son On Dishonesty Charge:
  A 16 year old boy was today remanded to prison on burglary and handling stolen goods charges. San Ignacio police reports that at around 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 25, Esperanza Village resident Maybelline Flores visited the police station in San Ignacio where she reported that her house was burglarized two days earlier. The complainant informed that between 12:30 pm and 3:00 pm on Monday, June 23 someone entered her house as a trespasser and stole there from a black Nikon brand digital camera with serial number 4234359 along with an extra lens and battery charger.
• TACKLING LACK OFYOUTH OPPORTUNITY:
  The lack of opportunity for the youth of Belize has been recognized for quite a while, yet results from efforts to deal with this problem are struggling and lack support. Whilst the economy of Belize shows little capacity to offer much, sport has an almost inexhaustible ability to bridge the gap between education and employment. In fact, sport can and frequently does open doors to successful careers, for those who grasp what's on offer. * Guided and directed youth can have significant impact on the success of communities, as well as on the future of the youth themselves * Using sport, as the basis for engaging with youth at community level, is a recognized model for promoting healthy lifestyle and producing successful adults and leaders of the future.
• Sickle-Cell Anaemia:
  Sickle-cell disease (SCD), or sickle-cell anaemia (SCA) or drepanocytosis, is a hereditary blood disorder, characterized by red blood cells that assume an abnormal, rigid, sickle shape. Sickling decreases the cells' flexibility and results in a risk of various life-threatening complications. This sickling occurs because of a mutation in the haemoglobin gene. Individuals with one copy of the mutant gene produce a mixture of both normal and abnormal haemoglobin. This is an example of incomplete dominance. Sickle-cell disease may lead to various acute and chronic complications, several of which have a high mortality rate.
• Public Advisory on Use of Specific Health Products:
  The Ministry of Health has received a public notification from the Unites States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), through the International Health Regulations of the World Health Organization, on health products that consumers are advised NOT to purchase. Consumers are advised not to purchase or use the following products that are promoted and sold for weight loss on websites or in retail stores: Dr. Ming's Chinese Capsule, 7 Days Herbal Slim, Sliming Diet Berry Plus, Asset Extreme, SlimEasy Herbs Capsule and Meizitang Citrus.
• Luis Suarez bite: Uruguay striker banned for four months:
  Uruguay striker Luis Suarez has been suspended from all football-related activity for four months for biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini. In addition, the Liverpool player, 27, has been banned for nine international matches, ruling him out of the rest of the 2014 Fifa World Cup. He will also miss the first nine games of the Premier League season. Uruguay say they will appeal, calling it an "excessive decision" for which "there was not enough evidence". Uruguay Football Association president Wilmar Valdez added: "I have seen more aggressive incidents recently.
• Mexican Tijuana Cartel Boss Sanchez Arellano 'Captured':
  The Arellano Felix clan is one of the most feared criminal families in Mexico The Mexican army says it has captured the leader of the once-powerful Tijuana cartel, Luis Fernando Sanchez Arellano. In the 1990s, the cartel controlled much of the drugs flow from the northern Mexican city of Tijuana to the United States. But it was dealt a severe blow after the arrest of four of the brothers leading it and the killing of a fifth. Luis Fernando Sanchez Arellano is the nephew of the Arellano Felix brothers who originally founded the cartel. An army official said Mr Sanchez Arellano was captured on Monday afternoon shortly after the Mexican football team reached the last 16 of the Fifa World Cup by beating Croatia.
• No Arrest In Venus Burglary:
  Five days later, almost four thousand dollars worth of items stolen, three persons interviewed, Zero arrests made. San Ignacio police informed of the receipt of a burglary report from Teresita Silva Johnson proprietor of Venus Store located at #6 Hudson Street in San Ignacio. The complainant informed that the store was secured at 9:00 pm on Saturday, June 21 and that upon checking at around 5:30 am the following day, the store was found to have been burglarized. Entry was gained through an opening pryed into the metal shutter attached to the front entrance.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 6, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Witnessing The Passing Of A Generation:
  It's with profound sadness that we record the passing of two well known Santa Elena women, Mrs. Pricilla Cruz Wiltshire and Mrs. Martha Oralia Waight. Mrs. Pricilla, better known as "Ma Pris" was born on November 14, 1936. She passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2014. Ma Pris is survived by her husband, Cecil Wiltshire; daughters: Jacqueline and Janell as well as Sandra "Tosh" Lanza. Sons: Lyndon "Peels" and Dion Wiltshire; brothers David Cruz of Belmopan and George Frazer ( BNTU Secretary General); one sister, Dorothy Frazer-Garbutt. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and many and friends. A wake will be held on Friday, 4 July at the Wiltshire Residence on Zaiden Street in Santa Elena. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 6 at 2:00 pm at the Nazarene Church in San Ignacio. She will be laid to rest inside the Carmen Memorial Cemetery in Santa Elena.
• There Is A New Police Chief In Town:
  Recently promoted Superintendent of Police, Dinsdale Timothy Thompson is the new Commander of the San Ignacio Police Detachment. Supt. Thompson is a 29 year veteran and former Chaplin of the Police Department. He is no stranger to the community as he had, just a few years ago, served as the Deputy Commander of the detachment he now commands. Dinsdale Thompson joined the Police Department in October 1985. He has served in various branches at Eastern Division in Belize City as well as in Belmopan. He first arrived in San Ignacio in 2008 as an Inspector of Police second in command of the formation where he served for two years. He was transferred to Benque Viejo Town in 2010 where he took over full command from now retired Superintendent of Police Mrs. Louise Willis.
• Editorial: Are You A Hater Or Are You A Lover?:
  As we journey through this life and witness the passing of that generation just before ours, we begin to realize just how short this life is. Why are we not more loving to each other? Why do we spend time hating and harming one another? In the natural course of life, we have come to accept the passing of our mothers and our fathers, this tells us that the next generation on the way out is ours. Our children are now having children, this makes us grandparents, our children's children will soon be having children, this makes us great grandparents. Do you honestly believe that you will be around to see your children's, children's, children's having children? The unstoppable passing of your generation is at hand.
• New Chairmanship At BNE Trust:
  The Belize Natural Energy Charitable Trust announces the appointment of Government's Representative, Alberto August, as its new Chairman. The Trust is a partnership between the Government of Belize and the Belize Natural Energy Limited. The board of Trustees comprises six members, three appointed by the Government of Belize and three appointed by the Belize Natural Energy Limited. In accordance with the Trust Deed, signed on February 25, 2008, the Chairmanship of the Trust rotates every two years. Chairman August took over from outgoing BNE Representative, Daniel Gutierez, when the BNE Chairmanship expired on June 6. Apart from the change in chairmanship all six members of the Trust remain unchanged with Alberto August, Elodio Aragon Jr., and Ismael Requena representing the Government of Belize along with Daniel Gutierez, Melanie Escalante and Alan Gobie representing BNE Limited.
• Nine San Ignacio Police Promoted:
  The confirmed list of promotions within the Non Commissioned rank of the Belize Police Department is now out with the San Ignacio detachment getting its fair share of promotions. Today the team of nine, comprising seven policemen and two policewomen, traveled to the national academy in Belmopan for the dress rehearsal as they prepare for the ceremony to receive their much deserved promotions. To be promoted from constable to corporal are: PC # 292 Rowland Augustine; PC # 495 Jason Jones, PC # 1121 Ciriaco Medina; PC # 597 Rigoberto Patt; PC # 692 Jose Pinelo; PC # 1168 Leonard Puc and WPC # 625 Debbie Reynolds. Raising from the Non- Commission to Commission Officer rank (NCO) are Sergeant #651 Stanley Bowden and WSergeant #433 Natalie Castillo both of whom will now retire their regulation numbers to Nine San Ignacio Police Promoted become Inspectors of police thereby being elevated to the Commission Officer rank of the Belize Police Department.
• Dengue Fever:
  Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash that is similar to measles. In a small proportion of cases the disease develops into the life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, low levels of blood platelets and blood plasma leakage, or into dengue shock syndrome, where dangerously low blood pressure occurs. Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquito within the genus Aedes, principally A. aegypti. The virus has five different types; infection with one type usually gives lifelong immunity to that type, but only short-term immunity to the others. Subsequent infection with a different type increases the risk of severe complications. As there is no commercially available vaccine, prevention is sought by reducing the habitat and the number of mosquitoes and limiting exposure to bites.
• Victor Galvez Gets Face-Lift:
  Volunteers Katherine Goodman, Miranda Porter, Emily Fuller, Cassie Schuttrumpf, Mary Scouten, with country directors Angela and Adam Carmack from the Help International organization have painted a total of 20 murals along the inner walls of the Victor Galvez Stadium in San Ignacio. Help International has been coming to Belize since 2010 working with Richard Zul to fight poverty and empower people. Working early in the mornings for the past four weeks, these volunteers have dedicated their time and money towards covering up graffiti in the park and sharing uplifting messages along these walls. If anyone would like to further help this project, paint donations and more volunteers would be greatly appreciated. To donate please contact Richard Zul at 670-8876.
• Chinese Couple Charged:
  A Chinese business couple was today in court charged with wounding a customer. The incident reportedly occurred 11 days ago, at around 2:30 pm on Thursday, June 19, when Linda Ellis entered, as a customer, Tom's Grocery Store on Bullet Tree Road in San Ignacio. Ellis reportedly asked why the Fantasy Five numbers were not on the board. The Chinese woman, later identified as Yan Na Liang, reportedly told her that they had wiped off the numbers. When Ellis requested an explanation as to why the numbers were removed, an argument reportedly erupted between Ellis and the Chinese woman.
• World Cup 2014: Who Holds The Balance Of Power In World Football?:
  The last three weeks have provided a consistent narrative of fast, attacking football and excitement - exactly as the game's rulers would have imagined it when they handed the tournament to Brazil. Even the line-up for the last eight has a balance that brings pleasure to the purists, as four teams from the Americas are complimented by a quartet from Europe - all of them group winners. The destiny of this World Cup will be decided in the iconic surroundings of the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday week but all quarter-finalists have the opportunity to show where the balance of power lies between the two continents. The seven World Cups held here in the Americas have failed to produce a European winner. On the flip side, Brazil are the only nation from the Americas to achieve a win on European soil - when they triumphed 5-2 in the final against hosts Sweden 56 years ago.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 13th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The July 20th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Bateman Alleges Brutal Police Treatment:
  Santa Elena resident, Simon Bateman Jr, 25, this week had another run in with the law; this time however, he has lodged a report against at least two policemen who allegedly brutalized him in the process of detaining him. In a report to the police, Bateman, Belizean laborer from the Hillview area in Santa Elena informed that at around 11:45pm on Saturday, July 12, he was socializing with his female partner, in the pool table area inside the Blue Angel's Nightclub when he was approached by a team of four policemen dressed in camouflage combats. One of the policemen allegedly approached him and demanded to know: "da you di smoke di weed up yah?" He reportedly asked the policeman "what weed?" This he said was met by a swift punch to the mouth while another policeman held him in a choke hold from behind.
• 106 Years Of Age - Truly A Blessing:
  Wednesday, July 16, 2014: Very few are those who live to reach one hundred years of age. Even fewer are those who go beyond 100. One such person is Mrs. Camilla Espinoza blessed to be among relatives on the occasion of her 106 birthday. That's right a century and six years. We were at the Octavia Waight Center today for this very special event. She has outlived all her children and so she was surrounded by nieces, nephews, grand children, great and great- great-grand children. Born in July 1908, Camilla could be the oldest woman living in Belize. She was born in Punta Gorda Town. She came to Cayo as a young girl, got married in the west and never went back to PG. Her husband passed away four years ago. She joined the center in February of 2005 and says that she loves the place. A broken hip has confined her to a wheel chair. She speaks mostly Spanish but understands English.
• Lesson #1 In Belizean Political History:
  The study of history is important because each generation needs to know about the people, events and actions of a former generation in order to make wise decisions in their time. With every five year general election cycle, a new cadre of voters is added to the national voters list. The voting population in Belize grows by about 9% every five years. It is therefore important for us to let them know from whence we came in order to afford them the opportunity to make informed and wise decisions in their time. Here now is lesson #1 in the political history of Belize: After five years in opposition, the People's United Party (PUP) was reelected to office in 1998. Those18 year old voters who will be voting for the first time in the scheduled 2017 general elections were not yet born in 1998 when the PUP was elected. By the time the PUP term ended with their reelection for a second term in 2003, those who will be 18 in 2017 and voting for the first time would have just turned four and of kinder garden age. The real rape of the nation by the PUP began in their second term, between 2003 and 2008, by the time the PUP were booted out of office in 2008, they left the nation with the infamous two BILLION dollar SUPER bond choking the national economy. The new 2017 voters were only nine years of age and merely heading into Std III of their primary school education when the PUP was booted out of office in 2008. At that tender age they had very little, if any knowledge of what had politically taken place in the first nine years of their young lives.
• Visit Dibary Store:
  process of the old making way for the new. There was a time several years ago when the food we ate was sold from behind a counter. The customer would enter the store, stand in front of the counter and ask for the item. The store keeper would get the item and hand it to the customer. The customer would pay the bill and depart the store. In those days the customer dare not go behind the counter. Times have changed. Today the customer walks the isles, gets the merchandise, pays and walks out. Infrastructural development removes the old and ushers in the new. This change can be seen on Burns Avenue in San Ignacio, the upgraded lower section of Burns Avenue is already attracting the new. One such example is the recently opened Dibary Store, next to Venus Hotel.
• BTB Donates to San Pedro Fire Victims:
  Minister of Tourism, Culture and Civil Aviation, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr, presented a cheque of five thousand dollars ($5,000) to the Belize Red Cross San Pedro Branch, in aid of the residents affected by the fire. The cheque, as a part of the Belize Tourism Board's contribution, was presented along with boxes of clothing, food items and toiletries donated by the BTB staff. Hon.Manuel Heredia Jr saysthe BTB and staff were willing to assist, 'We are very happy that we are able to provide some support to the families affected by this fire and while the donation in no way can compensate for their loss, we sincerely hope that it will ease their displacement and bring some semblance of comfort in their lives. As soon as we heard of the fire, we started looking into ways to help and I must say that the BTB staff gave generously to provide the families with in-kind donations.
• Obese Women 'Show Signs Of Food Learning Impairment:
  Obese women may have a "food learning impairment" that could explain their attitude to food, research from Yale School of Medicine suggests. Tests on groups of obese and healthy-weight people found that the obese women performed worst when asked to remember a sequence of food picture cards. Writing in Current Biology, Yale researchers tested 135 men and women. The findings could lead to new ways to tackle obesity, the study says. Study author Ifat Levy, assistant professor at Yale School of Medicine, said the difference in the performance of the obese women compared with the other groups was "really striking" and "significant". The tests looked at an individual's ability to learn and predict the appearance of pictures of food or money on coloured cards.
• Elect Your UDP Team:
  As the United Democratic Party (UDP) continues to prepare for the Sunday, July 29, 2014; convention for the election of the team to represent the party in the March 2015 municipal elections, a meeting was held today with the candidates offering themselves for election in the convention. The meeting, called by the UDP National Chairman Alberto August, was cordial and informative. All candidates in attendance candidly discussed and agreed upon the manner in which the July 29 convention will be conducted. Voting begins at 9:00 am at the Sacred Heart Primary School in San Ignacio. The polls will close at 6:00 pm. The counting will begin immediately after the last ballot is cast. Notorious for attracting a large number of persons offering themselves as candidates for the UDP, this time around is no different. Of the nine municipalities countrywide, this western municipality is the only one in which a convention will be held for the election of a mayoral candidate.
• Malaysia Jet Crashes In East Ukraine Conflict Zone:
  A Malaysia Airlines jet carrying 295 people has crashed in east Ukraine on a flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. There are no signs of survivors at the scene of the crash near the village of Grabovo, in rebel-held territory close to the border with Russia. Both sides in Ukraine's civil conflict accused each other of shooting down the plane with a missile. It is still not clear why the plane came down. It is the second disaster suffered by Malaysia Airlines this year.
• Alzheimer's Disease:
  Alzheimer's disease (AD), also known in medical literature as Alzheimer disease, is the most common form of dementia. There is no cure for the disease, which worsens as it progresses, and eventually leads to death. It was first described by German psychiatrist and neuropathologist Alois Alzheimer in 1906 and was named after him. Most often, AD is diagnosed in people over 65 years of age, although the less-prevalent early-onset Alzheimer's can occur much earlier. In 2006, there were 26.6 million people worldwide with AD. Alzheimer's is predicted to affect 1 in 85 people globally by 2050. Although Alzheimer's disease develops differently for every individual, there are many common symptoms. Early symptoms are often mistakenly thought to be 'age-related' concerns, or manifestations of stress. In the early stages, the most common symptom is difficulty in remembering recent events, known as short term memory loss.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The July 27th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Pech Walks Free:
  This murder case did not even make it to the Supreme Court as it was dismissed right at the magistrate court level in San Ignacio Town. The murder charge against Geovanni Pech, 24, at the time of the October 11, 2013 death of his cousin Leroy Moises Tzib, was today dismissed by magistrate Narda Morgan when the police could not produce a case file. The accused walked free out of the San Ignacio Town courtroom after spending almost 10 months in jail. Prior to dismissing the capital charge magistrate Morgan noted that the instruction from the office of the Director Of Public Prosecutions was for the civilian prosecutor not to interfere in the case and for it to be left to the police to prosecute as it is alleged that, in keeping with established protocols prior to the institution of a capital charge, the police did not consult with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The file has since been held in limbo. The charge was consequently dismissed "due to lack of cooperation between the police and DPP", as noted by the presiding magistrate.
• Miss Manchie Laid To Rest:
  It is with profound sadness that we record last week's passing of a pioneer resident of Santa Elena, Miss Manchie Jones. A faithful serving member of the Catholic Church, Ms. Manchie is pre-deceased by her husband, Wilward "Willie" Jones and a son Randy Jones. She is survived by daughters; Florence, Priscilla, Sonia, Laura, Catherine and Geraldine. She is also survived by sons; Wilward Jr., Joshua and David Jones.
• Editorial: Flogging A Dead Horse:
  The case against UDP Cayo Northeast Area Representative Elvin Penner was one that even the layman on the street referred to as "flogging a dead horse" notwithstanding, the exception opposition lawyer continued flogging it thereby ending up with egg all over his face. It was the singular flogging horse in the opposition arsenal. Mark our words, with nothing else to flog, the sole opposition lawyer/opposition Caribbean Shores Area Representative aspirant, will appeal the magistrate's decision as he continues foolishly flogging a now legally confirmed dead horse as they sit in their individual corners hoping and praying for something else to flog. This opportunity, it seems, will never come their way as Prime Minister Dean Barrow continues to steer his administration in the right direction.
• Movie Nights At The Cayo Welcome Center:
  The new Welcome Center in San Ignacio is fulfilling its intended purpose. It is bringing back the community to an area where we can socialized with family and friends. It is also providing the place and the means for us to meet new friends. The bambu tee, in conjunction with D Catch , Masabaduga, Yoli's Pizza (all business owners operating in the Welcome Center) are working in partnership with the Center's Committee in organizing social activities. The first such activity is Movie Night held on Wednesdays and Sundays. Residence of the twin towns and visitor alike are gathering at the Welcome Center on Movie Nights to watch the Movie garnering the most votes by customers visiting bambu tee, during the daytime hours. We encourage families to bring out the children and friends for Movie Nights at the Welcome Center. Movie starts at 7:00 pm. Our Welcome Center was built for us to use and enjoyment Let us come out and socialize in Peace, Love and Harmony.
• IDB President Meets With Belize's Prime Minister:
  Inter-American Development Bank President Luis Alberto Moreno met today with Belize Prime Minister, Dean Barrow, to exchange information and provide an overview of the IDB's activities in the country. President Moreno and Prime Minister Barrow also discussed the current IDB portfolio as well as future projects for Belize. The current IDB Country Strategy with Belize for the period 2013-2017 has four priority areas: education; tourism; transport; and trade and tax policy. This year the IDB and the Belize Government are preparing two new loans in the education and transport sectors for a total of US$30 million. The "Education Quality Improvement Program" was approved by the IDB on June 12 for a total of US$10 million. This program seeks to improve the quality of primary education and the governance of Belize's education system by training teachers so they can adopt innovative and best practices; developing and implementing an Education Management Information System; and improving the profile of teacher candidates.
• Gingivitis:
  Gingivitis ("inflammation of the gum tissue") is a non-destructive periodontal disease The etiology, or cause, of plaque-induced gingivitis is bacterial plaque, which acts to initiate the body's host response. This, in turn, can lead to destruction of the gingival tissues, which may progress to destruction of the periodontal attachment apparatus. The plaque accumulates in the small gaps between teeth, in the gingival grooves and in areas known as plaque traps: locations that serve to accumulate and maintain plaque. Examples of plaque traps include bulky and overhanging restorative margins, claps of removable partial dentures and calculus (tartar) that forms on teeth. Although these accumulations may be tiny, the bacteria in them produce chemicals, such as degrative enzymes, and toxins, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS, otherwise known as endotoxin) or lipoteichoic acid (LTA), that promote an inflammatory response in the gum tissue. This inflammation can cause an enlargement of the gingiva and subsequent formation. Early plaque in health consists of a relatively simple bacterial community dominated by Gram-positive cocci and rods.
• Rugby Sevens - First Rugby In Belize:
  Preparations are being made for the first rugby clubs to be established in Belize, focusing on the hugely popular and fast growing Sevens game, which will make its debut in the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Olympic Games. Rugby Sevens is a variant of the traditional rugby union game in a number of ways, chiefly: � Seven players on the field only (2 Props, Hooker, Scrum half, Fly-half, Centre & Winger) � Seven minute halves, instead of forty minutes, with one minute half-time � All conversions are drop-kicked, not place-kicked � Only three players in the scrum instead of eight
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 3rd, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Police Recovers Chris' Canoe:
  Rojelio Hernandez, a 24 year old Belizean laborer is in double trouble first with his alleged involvement in a stolen boat report and secondly with the discovery of a shotgun and cartridges at his residence in the Barton Creek community. The stolen boat report was made on July 11 this year by Christopher Lowe. In a report to the police Lowe informed that his $1,500, dark green, canoe along with its $15 aluminum paddle and the chain and padlock used to secure it, were stolen from his farm in the Barton Creek area. The police investigation first led to the detention of the prime suspect, Rojelio Hernandez and later to the Negro Man area, also in the Cayo District, where on Tuesday, July 29, the police found the canoe. The person found in possession of the canoe informed the police of having purchased it from Rogelio Hernandez.
• Teacher Mar Laid To Rest:
  It's with deep regret that we record the passing of yet another well known Santa Elena woman. Mrs. Agustina Mar nee Zetina was born in the lovely village of Bomba in the Belize District on the 4th May, 1953 to Domingo and Felipa Zetina. Agustina is survived by her sisters: Virma Guerra, Martha Morris Teresita Zetina (in Los Angeles, USA), Rufina Tzul (in Tulum, Mexico), Rosalina Jenkins, Natalia Carillo, Carmen Gilharry; Brothers: Santiago, Carlos, Ricardo, Alejandro, and Antholino. Eulogy was read by Mr. Victor Gongora: Agustina left Bomba, her river village, with her parents and siblings to start a new life in the sea side town of Corozal Town. Agustina grew up in the Rainbow town area of Corozal Town taking the scenic sea side street to go to St. Francis Xavier School and then Xavier College.
• It's Just That The Opposition Is Always Wrong:
  "It is not that the UDP is right, it is that the PUP is always wrong" PM Dean Barrow during one of his quarterly press conferences. Of late, the United Democratic Party seems to be getting it all right while the opposition People's United Party continues to be always wrong. Last week it was the Prime Minister's visit to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital for medical treatment thus increasing the credibility of our nation's flagship medical facility. Few days later it was the airing of the "Up Close Interview" with the Prime Minister as he confronted and ably addressed matters of national interests . With the inability to attack anything said in the interview, the opposition PUP, through its official mouth pieces, has directed their attention to the cost of the clothes and the pair of shoes that the PM was wearing. In fact, what else does one expect from a political party, almost 20 years later, that continues to criticize the kind of watch worn by PM Dean Barrow.
• UDP Ready!!!:
  The United Democratic Party (UDP) held its convention today at Sacred Heart Primary School in San Ignacio for the election of the party's slate to contest the March 4, 2015 municipal elections for the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The historic turnout of voters was impressive with over three thousand persons casting their ballots. Electors participating in the convention included those registered in Cayo Central, Cayo North and Cayo North East constituencies.
• Guatemala's Ixil Mayans Bury Victims Of 1982 Massacre:
  The remains of 31 indigenous Ixil Mayans, killed at the height of the Guatemala civil war, have been buried in the country's north-west. Hundreds of people attended the ceremony in Nebaj, Quiche province, singing hymns and burning incense. The army attacked the village of Xecax in 1982, accusing locals of supporting a left-wing insurgency. An estimated 200,000 people were killed in the 1960-1996 civil war, the vast majority of them indigenous Mayans. The bodies of many of those killed had been burned and dumped in mass graves. The remains were exhumed four years ago.
• Saying Goodbye To Something You Love:
  Cheri handed my crying baby to me, his little eyes swollen, his sobs subsiding into gulping sighs. Within seconds, Robbie calmed as I nuzzled him and kissed his sweet face. I hugged my friend and thanked her for trying again to watch Robbie while I went back to work part-time. Again, my son refused a bottle and cried constantly. We both knew this wasn't going to work. Forcing a smile, I turned quickly so she wouldn't see my tears. By the time I got to the car, I could hold them back no longer. Securing my son, I slipped in the driver's seat, put my head on the steering wheel and wept. He was my third child.
• Hon. Rene Montero and Your UDP Government at Work!:
• Deal To Stop Migrants From Boarding La Bestia Train:
  Guatemala, Mexico and the United States have reached a deal to try to prevent migrants from jumping onto a freight train in an attempt to reach the US, according to Guatemalan officials. Tens of thousands of migrants stow away on the train, known as La Bestia (The Beast), every year. Hundreds are injured or killed when they fall under its wheels. Many more are robbed or attacked by gangs. The three countries said they would establish more checkpoints. Rising Flow Guatemala's top immigration official, Alejandra Gordillo, said the deal was reached during meetings between Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and US Vice President Joe Biden.
• Abdominal Pain:
  Just about everybody at one point or another will experience abdominal pain. Most of the causes are not serious and can be readily diagnosed and treated. However, pain can also be a sign of a serious illness. It's important to be able to recognize symptoms that are severe and know when to call a doctor. What Are the Most Common Causes of Abdominal Pain? Whether it's a mild stomach ache, sharp pain, or stomach cramps, abdominal pain can have numerous causes. Some of the more common causes include:
• Transforming Falcon Field And More:
  With all the activities happening you might be wondering what is happening on Falcon Field in San Ignacio? It's the commencement of the rolling out of projects countrywide under the Belize Infrastructure Limited (BIL) an initiative of the government of Belize and in particular the Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow. The government of Belize has committed a whopping 30 million dollars, five million for each of the six districts, for the transformation of major sporting facilities. In transforming the concept to reality, Prime Minister Barrow spoke of the implementation of "Signature Projects" in all six districts of the nation. "Something" he said "of which every Belizean should be proud".
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 10th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Novelo Caught In The Act:
  A man caught carrying a washing machine on his shoulder in the early hours of the morning on Monday, July 28, was arrested, charged and denied bail. Police on mobile patrol shortly after 3:00 am on Monday, July 28, in the Bradley's Bank area of Santa Elena town reportedly came upon a male person of Hispanic decent carrying a washing machine on his shoulder. When questioned he was unable to provide a reasonable response for his action. He was detained and transported to the police station in San Ignacio along with the PL Laundromat brand, 6 kilo washing machine. The detainee was identified as Armando Novelo, 24, Belizean mason residing in the Hill View Area of Santa Elena Town.
• Police Holds Public Meeting:
  Over one hundred residents of San Ignacio, Santa Elena and surrounding villages gathered today at the Welcome Center in San Ignacio Town to listen to the police report on the local crime situation and citizen security plans. The meeting was called by the Officer Commanding the San Ignacio police formation, Superintendent of Police, Dinsdale Thompson. Sitting at the head table with Supt. Thompson and likewise addressing the gathering were Thompson's deputy, Inspector Reymundo Reyes; Assistant Commissioner of Police, Aaron Guzman in his capacity as the Officer Commanding the Cayo (Police) District; Julian Sherrard, Chair of the People's Coalition of Cayo; neighborhood watch Chair, Ernie Braun and retired Superintendent of Police Rudoplh Orio currently serving as the National Coordinator for Citizens On Patrol (COPS) program.
• Editorial: Who Is Lying? Who Is Telling The Truth?:
  If there is any truth in the most recent allegation, against the PUP Standard Bearer in the Belize Rural North constituency regarding impropriety involving large sums of missing money from a client, then the accused might just be in for very rough times ahead. While we sit on opposite sides of the political divide, for the sake of his sanity, his political aspirations and indeed his entire well being, we wish him no ill. The allegations against him however are extremely serious in nature given that, in months just past, he portrayed himself as the vanguard for all that is right. Even more serious is that at one juncture in his life he was aspiring to become the leader of the political party to which he belongs, an aspiration that, who knows, he might still be harboring in the back deep recesses of his mind.
• Garcia Accused of Burglarizing His Sister's House:
  The Cristo Rey village home of Jeffery Gonzalez was reportedly burglarized between 8:00 am and 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 6. In making the report to the police, Gonzalez informed them of the prime suspect being his brother-in-law, Selvin Garcia, also residing in Cristo Rey village. The police visited the scene where they observed that entry was gained by breaking the lock on the front door. In his statement to the police requesting court action, Gonzalez itemized the missing property as a gold engagement ring valued at $900, a black Cannon brand digital camera valued at $400, an Apple brand iPod valued at $400 and a black Gucci brand wrist watch valued at $600, all for a total value of $2,300.
• Ebola: Global Experts Begin Emergency Talks At WHO:
  Global health experts at the World Health Organization (WHO) are meeting to discuss new measures to tackle the Ebola outbreak. The meeting is expected to last two days and will decide whether to declare a global health emergency. On Wednesday, a man suspected to have contracted Ebola died in Saudi Arabia. If confirmed, this will be the first Ebola-related death outside of Africa. The virus has killed nearly 900 people since February in West Africa. The outbreak began in February in Guinea, and has since spread to Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria.
• Roni B Releases New CD:
  Belizean producer Rubio "Josh The Code" Tzib will be Releasing a new CD under his record label RVM records on Saturday, 9 August 2014 at Costa Maya in San Pedro Town. The tittle of the CD is "K.O.B The Gold Edition" highlighting Josh The Code as the producer, engineer and composer. The Album is a compilation of various talented artist from the beautiful country of Belize, artists such as Roni B T-Romeo del Sentimeinto, Osky la Ultima Pieza, Cholin el Pirate, El Toro Ferros and Blondy D Melody. Also debuting in the album are new artists such as Alex and Brian and Frequency 3.
• The Ultimate Father:
  I'll never forget the moment when my husband held each of our children in his arms the first time. The almost instant and complete adoration for each child was remarkable! As the children grew, I continued to marvel at the evidence of my husband's love for each of them. His profound love for every child has helped shape them to become godly young men and women. As I study Scripture and see the many references to God as being our Father, I read time and time again where the Bible uses "Father" in a context where it stresses God's loving care, provision, discipline, and suggests the way we are to address God in prayer. God, as our Father, clears the way so that we can come to Him and have a deep and rich relationship with Him. He desires that!
• Facebook Sued By 25,000 Members:
  A data privacy campaigner has signed up 25,000 people to a "class action lawsuit" being taken against Facebook. Max Schrems alleges that the way the social network monitors its members' activity on and off the site puts it in breach of EU laws. As part of the claim, he also alleges that the company co-operated with Prism, a US surveillance scheme. Facebook has previously denied knowing about Prism before it was mentioned in leaked US government documents. The company has, however, acknowledged complying with national security requests from US government agencies. Facebook has not commented on the wider case being brought against it.
• Chikungunya:
  Chikungunya is an infection caused by the Chikungunya virus. It causes an illness with an acute febrile phase lasting two to five days, followed by a longer period of joint pains in the extremities; this pain may persist for years in some cases. The disease is transmitted similarly to dengue fever. It is transmitted to humans by virus-carrying Aedes mosquitoes. Specifically, there are two species of mosquitoes, A. albopictus and A. aegypti, that are extrinsic hosts (vectors) of chikungunya virus. The strain of chikungunya spreading to the US from the Caribbean is most easily spread by A. aegypti. There is concern that this strain of chikungunya could mutate to make the A. albopictus vector more efficient. If this mutation were to occur, chikungunya would be more of a public health concern to the US.
• Protecting The Chiquibul:
  Friends of Conservation and Development (FCD), a non-profit organization charged with the responsibility to protect the Chiquibul Reserve in the Mountain Pine Area of the Cayo District, today held closing ceremonies for European Union's ECP-FLEGT project 2013-2014 at the Rumors Resort on the western outskirts of San Ignacio Town. During the ceremony Rafael Manzanero, FCD's Executive Director and his team received special commendation for the wonderful work they do in the national reserve. In his presentation Manzanero informed that the major challenges confronting FCD in the Chiquibul are illegal logging, the illegal panning for gold and the extraction of the exotic Xate plant.
• Venezuela To Close Colombia Border Each Night:
  Venezuela says it will close its border with Colombia at night from Monday, to try to stop large-scale smuggling of petrol and food. The government says that tonnes of goods - produced in Venezuela and heavily subsidised - are sold in Colombia at much higher prices. The shortage of many staples in Venezuela's western border area this year led to anti-government protests. The border closure was agreed with the Colombian government. President Nicolas Maduro discussed the measures with his Colombian counterpart, Juan Manuel Santos, at a summit on 1 August. The 2,200km-long (1,360 miles) border will be closed between 22:00 local time and 05:00 every night. Cargo vehicles, including vans and lorries, will be banned from crossing from Venezuela to Colombia between 18:00 and 05:00.
• USB 'Critically Flawed' After Bug Discovery, Researchers Say:
  Cyber-security experts have dramatically called into question the safety and security of using USB to connect devices to computers. Berlin-based researchers Karsten Nohl and Jakob Lell demonstrated how any USB device could be used to infect a computer without the user's knowledge. The duo said there is no practical way to defend against the vulnerability. The body responsible for the USB standard said manufacturers could build in extra security. But Mr Nohl and Mr Lell said the technology was "critically flawed". It is not uncommon for USB sticks to be used as a way of getting viruses and other malicious code onto target computers. Most famously, the Stuxnet attack on Iranian nuclear centrifuges was believed to have been caused by an infected USB stick.
• Attorney Authur Makes Money Allegations Agianst Melonie:
  Attorney Arthur Saldivar is making national headlines - after his former client Melonie Coye accused him of making off with nine hundred thousand dollars of her money that was recovered from the Central Bank. Saldivar said he did no such thing, but her new attorney Eamon Courtenay is filing suit against Saldivar to get the money back. Saldivar says that he did not take her money, but that he is owed 1.6 million dollars in fees. He explains that the allegation came as a shock, and where he speculates as to what may be behind it:.. Arthur Saldivar. Former Attorney - Melonie Coye "In terms of the latest round of cases I have not been paid not a dime. So when I heard of this news it came as a shock, a real shock to me. The allegation itself is somewhat to me some justification or rationale that perhaps my former client is using to justify not returning funds that may not be hers. I don't know. That's the only thing I can conjure up at this time.
• US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Visits Belize:
  The Embassy of the United States of America in Belize today informed of the visit of US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The release informed that on Monday, August 4, 2014, the embassy hosted Luis Arreaga, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) who spent two days in Belize, visiting key locations in Belize City on the first day and travelling to western towns of San Ignacio and Benque Viejo on the second day prior to crossing the border into Guatemala in continuance of the tour.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 17th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Four Arrested For Parceling A Pound Of Weed:
  Three men from Red Creek and a fourth from Santa Elena were, this Thursday afternoon, arrested and charged for the possession of marijuana when a team of policemen sneaked up on them from behind as they were parceling the merchandise under a coconut tree in the back of a yard. Acting upon information received, at around 2:30 pm this Thursday afternoon, a team of policemen, comprising elements from Special Branch, Crimes Investigation Branch and the Tourism Police Unit sneaked up from behind, along a cement fence, unto a property located at #213 Red Creek, on the eastern outskirts of Santa Elena Town, where they surprised four men assembled under a coconut tree engaged in a suspicious activity with a camp fire burning nearby. The men, all Belizean laborers, were identified as Ricky Diego, 28 and Glenford "Geese" Lewis, 50, both residing on the property as well as Shane Smith, 29, who lives nearby also in Red Creek and Wayne Miralda, 34, who told the police that he lives further up the highway in Santa Elena.
• Espat Takes The Rap Fined and Confined:
  Four persons from Santa Elena were today arrested on a possession of marijuana charge. The youngest of the four pled guilty to the charge. He was sent straight to jail on a five year sentence along with a ten thousand dollar fine. It was shortly before 10 o'clock on the morning of Friday, August 8, 2014, when a team of policemen, armed with a warrant to search for drugs, descended upon the #148 George Price Avenue, Santa Elena residence of Nelson "Quack" Flores, 30, Belizean laborer. Present with Flores on location at the time of the search were three other persons later identified as Belizeans Alma Reyes, 36; Jose Garcia, 26; and Justin Espat, 19. Both Reyes and Espat told the police that they reside with Flores at the house while Garcia informed that he lives nearby on Coconut Street.
• Editorial: We See, We Hear And We Read:
  When one travels across the nation, there is no denying that unprecedented development in the nation's infrastructure is happening everywhere like never before. The modernization of Belize City is unquestionable, Mayor Darrell Bradley, with assistance from Prime Minister Dean Barrow and Central Government are transforming the city beyond imagination. In the less than two and a half years since Mayor Bradley was elected to Belize City Hall, he and his team has done more for the city than all previous mayors combined. Amazingly, while the national development is advancing full speed ahead, it is doing so without any increase in national taxes and undue hardships to the thousands of public officers, teachers, doctors, nurses, policemen and soldiers paid by the national purse. Much unlike what is taking place in the region. We see, we hear and we read reports of massive retrenchments of public officers in sister Caribbean states. We see, we hear and we read of moratoriums on new employment of public officers in the region.
• Burglary, Burglary, Burglary:
  San Ignacio police are this week reporting three burglaries with no arrest. Police are of the opinion that a sneaky burglar is in town. The general public is therefore advised to guard against becoming a victim of burglary. In the first incident, Gerald Armstrong, 48, reported to police that between 6:00 am and 10:00 pm on Saturday, August 2, his house, located on Eduardo Juan Street in Santa Elena, was burglarized. While several items stolen amounted to less than a hundred dollars, the fact remains that someone invaded his privacy and in the process disrespected him. In the second incident, Wayne Bermudez, 50, year old Belizean farmer of a San Ignacio Town address reported to police that his farm house, located behind Eden Resort on the highway leading to Benque Viejo Town, was burglarized on Sunday, August 10.
• Belize Earns A Host Of Top 100 Readers Choice Awards:
  The August 2014 "Scuba Diving" magazine has outlined Belize as the "Central American paradise" who "earned a host of 2014 Top 100 Readers Choice Awards." Belize earned Readers Choice Awards for the Caribbean and Atlantic's best overall destination, big animals, wall diving, and underwater photography. Some of the highlights from the three-page spread include mentions of our barrier reef "bowing only to Australia's great one." It also talks about the wall dives that can be done along the atolls, which "turn into an underwater Lollapalooza." Also among the highlights was Gladden Spit which placed in the top 5 list for "best big animals in the Caribbean and Atlantic region." Apart from our "big animals," Belize was also recognized for its "macro critters." Belize, known for some of the most authentic experiences, was also pointed out as a destination for tours from luxury yachts, to explorations through the jungle and to the archaeological sites.
• Marriage Reveals, Not Creates Problems:
  BY: Rick Warren, Aug 3, 2014: "In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery." (Proverbs 28:23 NLT) If you're single and you're prolonging a relationship that you know is going nowhere, don't continue it. "But I won't have anybody to take me out on Friday night," you say. A bad marriage is a million times worse than not going out on Friday night! The longer you're in a relationship, the more difficult it's going to be to get out of it. Proverbs 28:23 says, "In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than flattery" (NLT). Size that person up quickly, particularly related to emotional health. Don't be afraid to ask questions like, "Do you have uncontrolled anger?" "Can we talk about me?" or "Will you pick up the tab?"
• Police Manhunt For Calderon Brothers Underway:
  Police have detained two suspects and are on the manhunt for two more in connection with a Sunday night, August 3, chopping incident in San Ignacio Town. It was a few minutes to 10 o'clock on Sunday night August 3 when the police were called to the community hospital in San Ignacio. They were immediately directed to the emergency room where a male person was being treated for large chop wounds, one each to both knees and another to the mid section of the body. Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim, later identified as San Ignacio resident, Felix Romero, was at his mother-in-law's house on Flamingo Street in San Ignacio when he went to open the gate for his mother-in-law to enter. Whilst at the gate he was reportedly attacked by four male persons whom he identified as the Calderon brothers: Neri and Gerson along with Leroy Supal and Joshua Concha.
• Invitation To Support HRCB Fundraising Eve:
  The Human Rights Commission of Belize invites you to support their fundraising event to be held in San Ignacio at the Sacred Heart Auditorium this coming Saturday August 16th 2014 starting at 7:30 p.m.. This event is being done in partnership with the Rotaract Club of San Ignacio and consists of the performance of the hilarious play "Every Rose has Thorns" written by pastor Dillon Burgin. All proceeds go towards the continuation of HRCB's human rights educational trainings and advocacy programs and the Rotaract's Club " Send a child to school scholarship program" Come out and support us.
• Acne Vulgaris:
  Acne vulgaris (or simply acne) is a common human skin disease, characterized by areas of seborrhea (scaly red skin), comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules (pinheads), nodules (large papules), pimples, and possibly scarring. Aside from scarring, its main effects are psychological, such as reduced self-esteem and in very extreme cases, depression or suicide. One study has estimated the incidence of suicidal ideation in patients with acne as 7.1%. In adolescence, acne is usually caused by an increase in androgens such as testosterone, which occurs during puberty, regardless of sex. Acne more often affects skin with a greater number of oil glands; these areas include the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back. Severe acne is inflammatory, but acne can also manifest in noninflammatory forms. The skin changes are caused by changes in pilosebaceous units, skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland, changes that require androgen stimulation.
• Two Guatemalan Boys On Remand For Gun and Bullets:
  Two Guatemalan boys were this week captured with a gun and ammunition inside the national territory of Belize. As rangers from Friends for Conservation and Development (FCD) continue the task of protecting the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, there are reports of yet another incursion into Belize by Guatemalans. The report indicates that at around 10:45 am on Monday, August 11, the rangers were on routine joint patrol with soldiers of the Belize Defense Force in the Caracol Archeological Reserve when they came upon a group of four Guatemalan male persons sitting around a fire. Upon reaching the group, two of the men escaped while the other two were captured.
• Penner and Rojo on Drug Charges:
  Two men are facing drug charges after being connected with a really tiny amount of illegal drugs. They were doing the stuff, police say, in the Welcome Center in San Ignacio when police, acting on information received, pulled up on them. Police first searched the Caucasian man dressed in a long sleeve white shirt with blue stripes and blue jeans pants while the other, instantly identified as Rayford "Rojo" Staine was wearing a black t-shirt and blue jeans pants. A search of the Caucasian man led to the discovery of a transparent plastic bag containing 0.2 grams of cocaine in his left pants pocket, while inside the other front pocket police found two grams of suspected weed. Nothing incriminating was found on Rojo. A search of the area however, inside a flower pot, led to the discovery of 1.3 grams of suspected crack cocaine.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The August 24th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Murder in Unitedville later identified as Victor "Niko":
  Just as the new day was dawning on Saturday, August 16, San Ignacio Police were called out to the village of Unitedville on the George Price Highway in the Cayo District, to investigate the presence of the lifeless body of a male person on a veranda. Upon arrival at the Unitedville residence of Quinton Middleton, 29 year old businessman, the police came upon body of a male person of Hispanic descent, face upward on the veranda. The deceased was later identified as Victor "Niko" Vargas, 37, Guatemalan, naturalized Belizean who resided in the village.
• Who Will Be Queen Of The West 2014?:
  This year's September Celebrations was launched today at the Welcome Center in San Ignacio with the official presentation of the six contestants for the Queen of the West. Master and Mistress of Ceremony for the event were William Black and Melanie Usher who is also serving this year as the pageant coordinator. The welcome address was delivered by Queen of the West 2012, Miss Marcia Moody, who invited the public to come out on Saturday, August 23, 2014, to the Octavia Waight Center Auditorium to support their favorite contestant.
• The Difference In Leadership Is As Clear As Day Is To Night:
  It's been over two months since the incident with PUP Belize Rural North Standard Bearer, Arthur Saldivar, occurred. It is alleged that he accompanied Melanie Coye to the Central Bank sometime in mid June to retrieve Coye's 1.6 million dollars as ordered by the court. The loot, it is alleged, was placed in two separate carrying cases, one containing $940,000 and the other $660,000. It is alleged that Saldivar made off with the bigger haul and had failed to turn it in to Melanie Coye, an allegation Saldivar denies in one breadth, while in the other, he speaks about the client owing him legal fees to the tune of 100% of the clients rescued funds.
• GSU Nets Three Drug Finds In A Day:
  Members of the Gang Suppression Unit (GSU) were today conducting routine searches for illegal drugs, arms and ammunition in Santa Elena and surrounding communities. The operation started at around 5:30 a.m. this Saturday morning with a visit to the Jeronimo Thompson street residence, in Esperanza Village, of Mark Francis Peters. Present at the time of the search were Peters and three other persons. According to the GSU, when searched, Peters was found in possession of a black plastic bag, in his pocket, containing 13.9 grams of suspected marijuana.
• Alleged Female Burglar Remanded To Prison:
  A 28 year old Belizean woman was today remanded to prison on a burglary charge. The charge stems from a report made by Gerald Armstrong. In a statement to the police Armstrong informed that his house located on Eduardo Juan Street in Santa Elena, Cayo was burglarized and stolen there from where small items amounting to less than one hundred dollars. Armstrong alleged that the incident occurred on Saturday, August 2. The investigation led to the arrest of Marciela Castellanos, 28, Belizean domestic.
• Rugby: The First Four:
  The southern districts have seemingly stormed ahead in setting up rugby football clubs in Belize, and the first four clubs have appointed organisors and are busy attracting players and volunteers through their social media campaigns. * The Belize Rugby Board (Rugby Belize) has organized the country into two 'Districts' for domestic competition purposes; North includes Corozal, Orange Walk and Belize, and South covers Cayo, Stann Creek and Toledo *Hattieville United Rugby Football Union (part of the Hattieville United Youth Sporting Club), organized by Haddan Garbutt, is the headquarters of Rugby.
• Be Your Spouse's Biggest Fan:
  If you're married, God has given you an incredibly important role: to be your spouse's biggest fan. It's a job only you can do in the way God desires, and your spouse desperately needs you to do it. We live in a world full of critics. We don't have to look far to find someone who will put us down. That's why every person on the planet desperately needs to be affirmed by someone on a regular basis. It's how God wired us. If you're married, one such person should be your spouse. To have a growing marriage, it's essential for you and your spouse to build into your marriage continual affirmation of one another.
• Suspected Guatemalan Bandidos Attack:
  A 52 year old housewife from Bullet Tree Falls village in the Cayo District visited the San Ignacio police station where she reported an incident of robbery. The complainant, Betty Cruz, informed that she was with her wheel chair confined husband and a worker in the El Pilar Mayan reserve when at around 1:00pm on Wednesday, August 20, two Hispanic male persons showed up on her property asking for a drink of water. She told the police that while she was getting the water, three other men, wearing masks and brandishing assault rifles suddenly appeared. She said that the men spoke Spanish with a clear Guatemalan accent. The couple was relieved of one thousand dollars in cash, two chainsaws, an electrical converter, several security cameras as well as an assortment of food items.
• Criminal Cases Falling Like Flies:
  A number of criminal cases, some serious, are being struck out for want of prosecution when a policeman, on interdiction, is not appearing in court to give evidence. This is the case with police constable Maxwell Valerio. Some of the recent cases being struck out because of Valerio's non-appearance in court are: i) August 4: Possession of a controlled drug, 6.5 grams ii) August 4: Damage to property iii) August 8: Possession of a controlled drug, 9.5 grams iv) August 12: Possession of Ammunition charges for ten .38 rounds.
• Epilepsy:
  Epilepsy is a group of long-term neurological disorders characterized by epileptic seizures. These seizures are episodes that can vary from brief and nearly undetectable to long periods of vigorous shaking. In epilepsy, seizures tend to recur, and have no immediate underlying cause while seizures that occur due to a specific cause are not deemed to represent epilepsy. In most cases the cause is unknown, although some people develop epilepsy as the result of brain injury, stroke, brain cancer, and drug and alcohol misuse, among others. Epileptic seizures are the result of excessive and abnormal cortical nerve cell activity in the brain. The diagnosis typically involves ruling out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms (such as syncope) as well as figuring out whether any immediate causes are present. Epilepsy can often be confirmed with an electroencephalogram (EEG).
• Third Annual Patriotic Paddle:
  Our Charitable Fundraising Event, the third annual Patriotic Paddle sponsored by BECOL is scheduled for August 30, 2014. The event is in honor of re-visiting the route of the "Flowers Bank 14" paddle to Belize City and in celebration of the decision to defend the Settlement. The Paddle starts at 8:30 am with a short opening in Flowers Bank Village after which we move off at 9am to Burrell Boom where we'll have lunch. Burrell Boom will be an entry point for paddlers wishing to join in the event. We move from Burrell Boom to Manatee Lookout in Ladyville which is also an entry point. We'll take a few minutes break there before continuing to Courthouse Wharf in Belize City. THIS IS NOT A RACE and all crafts are to paddle along together. Canoes and kayaks can participate in the event.
• Venezuela Plans To Introduce Supermarket Fingerprinting:
  The government wants to introduce fingerprinting at supermarkets to stop people from buying too much of a single item. President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela has announced a mandatory fingerprinting system in supermarkets to combat food shortages and smuggling. He said the system would stop people from buying too much of a single item. But the opposition in Venezuela rejected the plan, saying the policy treated all Venezuelans as thieves. Critics said fingerprinting consumers of staple products was tantamount to rationing and constituted a breach of privacy.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 7th, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Possession With Intent To Supply:
  Just as we were going to press this Thursday night the report came in of another drug bust this one netting 132 grams of suspected marijuana. The report informs that at around 11 o'clock this Thursday morning a team of policemen, armed with a warrant, conducted a search on a premises located on 18th Street in San Ignacio Town. Present at the time of the search were Leon Nelson Smith, 27, and Roger Hilton, 26, both Belizean laborers. Nothing incriminating was found inside the house occupied by Leon Smith. The search then extended to the yard where, under a fire hearth, a member of the police team found a black plastic bag containing three smaller transparent plastic bags containing suspected marijuana. Smith and Hilton were arrested and jointly charged for the possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply.
• Suspected Stolen Goods Found:
  Police today reported the discovery of several items suspected to have been stolen. As the cooperation between the community and the police continues to grow, based on a tip off, a team of policemen this Thursday afternoon visited an abandoned wooden house located at the corner of Zaiden Street and La Luma Luz Boulevard in Santa Elena Town where they found several items suspected to have been stolen and stashed inside the house. Among the items found were a sound system, standing speakers, tools, a vehicle jack, plastic containers, lawn chairs and plastic buckets.
• A Man's Fate Hangs In The Balance:
  Police are awaiting instructions from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions which could result in the arrest of a man on a rape charge. An 18 year old female of San Ignacio Town reported to police that on Sunday, August 24, she was socializing at the home of a male acquaintance when, under the influence of alcohol, she fell asleep on his bed at around 5:00 pm. She was reportedly awoken to the man having sexual intercourse without her consent.
• Hillview Weed Without Owner:
  More black plastic bag, more weed found. Acting upon information received, a team of policemen visited a vacant lot in the Hillview area of Santa Elena Town at around 8 o'clock on Monday morning, August 25 where they found a black plastic bag containing 120.8 grams of marijuana. No one was found in the area. The weed was labeled as found property.
• Editorial: The Possibilities Are Endless:
  The United Democratic Party (UDP) was the first political party to win an election in an independent Belize. The results of the 1984 general elections is said to have been a referendum on the people's acceptance of the guiding of the nation into independence under George Price and his People's United Party (PUP). When the votes were counted in the first general elections in Independent Belize, history was made as the PUP was booted out of office for the very first time. Included among those losing their seat was the new Prime Minister (formerly Premier) George Cadle Price who was soundly trashed at the polls in Freetown by the youngest UDP elected Area Representative, Derek Aikman. Hence began the political demise George Price, the father of the PUP. Price's sister, Jane Usher was a powerhouse PUP area representative in the Pickstock division where she, to this day, operates the largest credit union in Belize, the Holy Redeemer Credit Union.
• Samsung And LG Launch New Watches While Apple Waits:
  South Korean tech firms LG and Samsung have announced more smartwatches, ahead of a wide ly anticipated entry to the sector from Apple. The devices, from LG and Samsung, suggest renewed attempts to create a smartwatch that is perhaps more fashionable than previous efforts. Samsung's Gear S features a curved screen, while LG's G Watch R has a more classic watch design. Apple is rumoured to be preparing to launch its device next month. Technology news site Recode has said the smartwatch - dubbed iWatch by Apple's fans and some of the press - will debut on 9 September. However, in typically tight-lipped fashion, Apple has yet to confirm its plans.
• Caesar Panti Jr. Receives Scholarship:
  "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." Benjamin Franklin once said. It is with this quote in mind that Adventures Sports Club is pleased to have been able to secure a one year scholarship for Mr. Caesar Rene Panti Jr to attend high school. The donation of $1,300 Belize dollars comes through the generous gift of Mr. Michael and Julie Lindo of New Jersey, USA, on behalf of BelCare Football Youth Academy. Mr. Caesar will be attending Sacred Heart College so the funds will be utilized to cover registration fees as well as needed school supplies including text books and utensils. BelCare Football Youth Academy is a fully incorporated organization whose purpose is to provide children of grassroots ages 6 -12 the opportunity to play football in a safe environment of fun and enjoyment.
• Chilean Sailor Makes History After Announcing He Is Gay:
  A sailor in Chile has become the first serving member of the Chilean armed forces to announce he is gay. Mauricio Ruiz, 24, told a televised news conference his decision had "not been easy", but he wanted to help fight discrimination against homosexuals. Mr Ruiz said that what was most important was not a soldier's sexual orientation, but his or her willingness to serve the country. His announcement came with the full backing of the Chilean armed forces.
• Garcia Pleads Guilty:
  A Sunday night search at a house in Santa Familia Village, Cayo District, resulted in the discovery of almost 6 grams of suspected weed seeds. At around 9:30 pm on Sunday, August 24, two policemen visited the Santa Familia residence of Belizean laborer, Mervin Carrias, 27, to conduct a search for drugs. The search led to the discovery of the trademark black plastic bag near the kitchen. Opened in the presence of Carrias, the bag was found to contain suspected weed seeds. The occupants of the house, Mervin Carrias and his common-law-wife, Rosseli Garcia, 20, were instantly detained and transported to the police station in San Ignacio where, when placed on the police digital scale, the product was recorded at 5.81 grams.
• Another Small Haul:
  As the aggressive police operations in the community continue, there is the report of the arrest of a crack addict and the confiscation of a piece of crack cocaine, a crack pipe and a penknife found in his possession. At around 11:15 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, police on routine mobile patrol pulled up alongside Francis Vera, an alleged crack addict, as he was walking on Carmen Street in Santa Elena. Vera complied with the instruction to halt and when searched he was found in possession of a black metal pipe suspected to be an instrument used to smoke crack cocaine along with a small piece of hard substance suspected to be crack cocaine and a six inch knife with a black handle.
• Gastroenteritis:
  Gastroenteritis or infectious diarrhea is a medical condition from inflammation ("-itis") of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both the stomach ("gastro"-) and the small intestine ("entero"-). It causes some combination of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain and cramping. Dehydration may occur as a result. Gastroenteritis has been referred to as gastro, stomach bug, and stomach virus. Although unrelated to influenza, it has also been called stomach flu and gastric flu. Signs and Symptoms Gastroenteritis typically involves both diarrhea and vomiting, or less commonly, presents with only one or the other. Abdominal cramping may also be present. Signs and symptoms usually begin 12-72 hours after contracting the infectious agent. If due to a viral agent, the condition usually resolves within one week. Some viral causes may also be associated with fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle pain. If the stool is bloody, the cause is less likely to be viral and more likely to be bacterial. Some bacterial infections may be associated with severe abdominal pain and may persist for several weeks.
• UniBAM Response To Amandala:
  UNIBAM categorically denies allegations made in the Amandala Editorial "Government and Gays" of 14th August, 2014 and wishes to set the record straight on the following matters: 1. There is no secret funding from the US Embassy! The Embassy generally issues calls requesting proposals for funding from the NGO community. UNIBAM has submitted proposals in response to grant calls and have received a total of US$35,000.00 over the years 2011 and 2013 as well as several other Belizean NGOs.
• Expo Belize Market Place 2014:
  Spirits are high as we prepare for our 18th annual Expo Belize Market Place 2014 scheduled for September 6th and 7th, at the ITVET Grounds on Freetown Road in Belize City from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.! The Belizean public is buzzing with anticipation as various micro, small, medium and large enterprises, both new and seasoned, have booked their booths to display quality products and services. The EXPO promises to lead the way into our September Celebration season with countless deals and steals, a fashion show and live music entertainment, fun activities for the kids, chances to win great prizes and much more!
• Ministry of Health Shares Results of Foodborne Disease Research Study:
  Belmopan. August 25, 2014. Last week the Ministry of Health in partnership with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Belize and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) presented the results of the Burden of Illness (BOI) research study on Acute Gastroenteritis and causes of Food Borne Illness in Belize. The study launched in September 2012 and was aimed at estimating the proportion of the population suffering from Acute Gastroenteritis (AGI), also known as stomach flu, at a specific time period while also estimating the economic burden the disease has on the public health system.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 21, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Murder In Duck Run 3:
  San Ignacio police are investigating a murder that occurred in the mainly Hispanic village of Duck Run 3 in the Cayo District. On Sunday, September 14, Police were called out to Duck Run 3 where they found the body of Hispanic man with chop wounds to the neck. The victim was identified by the wife as that of her husband Pedro Ariel Diaz Guien, 24, Guatemalan laborer residing in Duck Run 3. The body was transported to the San Ignacio hospital where it was officially pronounced dead by the medical officer on duty. In the process of the investigation five male persons were detained for questioning which ultimately led to the arrest of Luvin Ernesto Peres, 26, Belizean laborer also residing in Duck Run 3.
• Man And Boy Facing Burglary Charge:
  A thirty seven year old man and a fifteen year old boy are today in jail on a burglary charge. At around 4:50 pm on Tuesday, September 16, Onesimo Chi Jr., 34, Belizean mason of an Alta Vista Street address in San Ignacio, visited the police station where he filed a burglary report. Chi told the police that at around 7:30 am he properly secured his house and left for the day. When he returned later that day, he reportedly heard strange noises inside the house. He allegedly saw a pair of unfamiliar blue slippers in the hallway leading to the living room.
• Editorial: The Swift and Decisive VS The Slow and Lame:
  Major violence occurred on the mean streets of Belize City on Wednesday night. Eight persons were shot with three fatalities. Prime Minister Dean Barrow, in his usual prompt manner, immediately began to get things moving. In less than 24 hours he had met with the police high command to find out what they have done, what they are doing and what they intended to do to immediately nip this one in the bud. In the prompt meeting with the police high command, Prime Minister Barrow offered suggestions and financial assistance to law enforcement officials to get on immediately with addressing this scourge. This is what a true leader does. This is the taking of prompt and decisive action. The ball is now in the court of law enforcement professionals. The political will to address this matter is as solid as a rock.
• Salvadoran Man Planting Weed:
  Unable to forthwith pay imposed court fines a Salvadoran farmer was sent to jail on two drug related charges. It is reported that at around 4:30 pm on Monday, September 15, acting upon information received, police visited the Los Tambos residence of Juan Antonio Leon, 30, Salvadoran farmer and Olga Ofelia Sermeno, 35, Belizean domestic both residing at the same address. A search of the house was conducted leading to the discovery of a white plastic bag containing suspected cannabis seeds. The search, extended to the yard, resulting in the discovery of a transparent plastic bag which contained several small plants ranging from one to two inches in height, suspected to be marijuana seedlings.
• Brazil Armed Robbers Seize Rio Archbishop's Crucifix:
  The archbishop of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil has had his crucifix and ring stolen in an armed robbery. Cardinal Dom Orani Tempesta was on his way to an engagement in the city when his car was ambushed by three men. One of the robbers, who pointed a gun at the cardinal, realised who he was and apologised, an aide said. However, the gang continued with the crime only holding back from taking his vehicle as well. The cardinal's items were later recovered. No-one was hurt in the incident, which happened on Monday evening in the Santa Teresa district of the city.
• Violence Against Women:
  The Special Envoy for Women and Children, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow wishes to highlight the fact that violence against women in the family, workplace, community and society in general, is unacceptable and a gross violation of human rights. Violence whether occurring in the home or in the community, instils fear and insecurity in women, often leading them not to report or to withdraw reports. Mrs. Simplis Barrow encourages both women and men to report acts of violence and follow through with legal proceedings; stressing that fear, social pressures and shame should not be a deterrent to seeking help. The Domestic Violence Act is there to provide protection and the Police Department has an obligation to respond to all reports of domestic violence regardless of the perpetrator.
• Karate Bronze Medal-Codicader Games 2014:
  The Belize Karate Federation would like to extend its congratulations to Mr. Ceasar Dyk on his stella performance at the CODICADER Games held in Guatemala on September 3-7, 2014. Mister Dyck fought his heart out against Costa Rican Champion, Daniel Alfaro to secure a bronze medal for Belize at a score of 4 points -1 point. Even though Mr Dyck was the sole karate athlete representing Belize, the auditorium roared with support from the Panamanian and Salvadoran fans. The under 76 kilograms category was was won by Guatemalan, Javier Morales, who defeated the sub-champion Nicaraguan, Andres Abrahan.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The September 28, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Special Constable Killed On Duty:
  A 19 year old Special Constable, assigned to the Tourism Police Unit (TPU), was today killed by suspected Guatemalan bandits. San Ignacio police informed of the receipt of the fatal incident report at around midday today, Thursday, September 25, 2014. The report indicated that about five minutes before 12 noon, a colleague of the deceased Special Constable heard what appeared to be the firing of several gunshots in the area of one of the mayan structures located about one hundred feet from where he was standing near another of the several structures on the tourist site. The colleague reportedly rushed to the scene where he reportedly saw a male person of Hispanic decent pointing a handgun at the Special Constable who was on the ground. He reportedly saw a second man picking up and taking possession of the Special Constable's service firearm being a pump 12 shotgun. A shot was reportedly fired at the approaching police, fortunately it missed its target. The two Hispanic men were joined by a third as all three fled the area.
• Teacher Louise Passes:
  It is with profound sadness that we record the passing of another senior resident of our community, Mrs. Louise Bridget Lewis, 76, known to many as "Aunt Lou" or "Teacher Louise". Aunt Lou never recovered from a stroke she suffered while at home on Saturday, September 20. She was first rushed to the community hospital in San Ignacio and later to the Universal Health Services in Belize City where she passed away quietly at around 12:40 this Thursday morning. Aunt Lou is retired primary school teacher. Many are those of us who "passed through her hands". She was an avid member of the Catholic Church. She was one of the first lay ministers of the Sacred Heart Parish. She was a member of the choir and just loved to sing in church. She was the chief organizer of Easter events including the traditional procession and the Stations of the Cross.
• Editorial: No Turning Back:
  Formed on September 27, 1973 the United Democratic Party (UDP) is this week engaged in activities commemorating the 41st anniversary of the formation of the party. The UDP was birthed through the amalgamation of the Phillip Goldson led National Independence Party (NIP), Dean Lindo's People's Development Movement (PDM) and the Liberal Party founded by Manuel Esquivel, Curl Thompson, Henry "Pa Hen" Young, Harrison "Sir Harry" Lawrence and Nestor "Net" Vasquez. Eleven years after its formation the UDP made history, in December 1984 when it defeated the George Price led People's United Party (PUP) in the first general elections after the September 21, 1981 attainment of Belize's political independence from Great Britain.
• Neri Lopez Injured In Traffic Accident:
  Santa Elena resident, Neri Lopez, today remains at the Karl Huesner Memorial Hospital in a critical condition after he was knocked down on the George Price Highway on Saturday, September 20, the eve of our nation's independence. Acting on a report of a road traffic accident, San Ignacio police visited the scene in Santa Elena, where they saw an unconscious male Hispanic person, bleeding from the mouth, lying on his back in front of a blue Mazda Tribute SUV bearing l/p SI C-03191, with a dent on the right side of the bonnet.
• Independence Day Murder In Los Tambos:
  San Ignacio police is investigating the case of a shooting death in the mainly Hispanic community of Los Tambos, Cayo. The initial investigation revealed that the deceased, Manuel Ramos, 27, Guatemalan naturalized Belizean and his common-law wife, Alba Luz Moralez, 36, were reportedly relaxing out under a shed when several gunshots rang out. Ramos fell to the ground dead and was later found with gunshot injuries to the chest, arm and chin, and died on the spot. The common law wife emerged with a gunshot wound to the leg. Ramos and Moralez were transported to the Western Regional Hospital where Ramos was officially pronounced dead while Moralez was treated and later released.
• Galen University Appoints Dr. Cynthia Eve Aird As Provost Of The University:
  Galen University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Cynthia Eve Aird, to the position of Provost of the University. Dr. Aird earned her Ph.D. in Curriculum, Instruction and Administration with a minor in Higher Education from Boston College, Boston, MA. Dr. Aird is a skilled and dedicated educator and is currently President of Sacred Heart College, Cayo. With over twenty (20) years experience in the education sector, Dr. Aird developed a professional network amongst her colleagues in the Association of Tertiary Level Institutions of Belize (ATLIB), and the Consortium for Belize Educational Cooperation (COBEC). She has served in the capacity of President of ATLIB from 2008 to 2012. Dr. Aird was a founding member of the Belize Board of Teacher Education (BBTE).
• Youth Invitational Karate Championships:
  The Cayo Shotokan Karate Club in conjunction with the Belize Karate Federation is hereby inviting the general public to attend and witness the Youth Invitational Karate Championships, to be held this Saturday, 27th September, 2014, 9am to 4pm, Sacred Heart College Auditorium, San Ignacio Town. This event will be held in commemoration with the Cayo Shotokan Karate Club's 24th Anniversary. Belize athletes will be competing against visiting athletes from El Salvador and Guatemala.
• Opening Address for Senior Citizen's Week:
  The theme for this year's Senior Citizen's week is "LEAVING NO ONE BEHIND: PROMOTING A SOCIETY FOR ALL" The last week of September leading up to the 1st of October, the official International Day of Older Persons, is designated to celebrate and honor Senior Citizens. HelpAge Belize has set aside this week to review the progress made or lack thereof and to re-strategize if necessary improve the effectiveness and end results of the various programs and projects that we have implemented to benefit our older persons in Belize. Our Society has a lot to be desired in regards to the respect, protection and services offered to our Older Citizens both on the family and community level. Several Senior citizens have been murdered over the past weeks.
• The 100 Thousand Poets For Change Movement For Peace & Sustainability:
  BY: Barrington Castillo Do you want to join other poets, musicians, and artists around the planet in a celebration to promote peace and sustainability and to call for serious social and environmental change 1) What kind of a change are we talking about? 2) I want to organize in my area. How do we begin to organize? "What kind of CHANGE are we talking about?" The first order of change is for poets, writers, musicians, artists, activists to get together to create and perform, educate and demonstrate, simultaneously, with other communities around the world. This will change how we see our local community and the global community. We have all become incredibly alienated in recent years. We hardly know our neighbors down the street let alone our creative allies who live and share our concerns in other countries. We need to feel this kind of global solidarity. It will be empowering.
• Paraguay Bishop Livieres Sacked Over 'Abuse Cover-up':
  The Right Reverend Rogelio Livieres Plano has been dismissed as bishop of the diocese of Ciudad del Este Pope Francis has sacked a Paraguayan bishop who has been accused of protecting a priest suspected of sexually abusing young parishioners. The Vatican said that "the Holy Father has decided to replace Monsignor Rogelio Livieres Plano" as bishop of Ciudad del Este. It is the second time in a week that Pope Francis has taken disciplinary action over clerical sex abuse scandals in Latin America. He has promised "zero tolerance".
• Common Cold:
  The common cold (also known as nasopharyngitis, rhinopharyngitis, acute coryza, head cold, or simply a cold) is a viral infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract which primarily affects the nose. Symptoms include coughing, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, and fever which usually resolve in seven to ten days, with some symptoms lasting up to three weeks. Well over 200 virus strains are implicated in the cause of the common cold; the rhinoviruses are the most common. Upper respiratory tract infections are loosely divided by the areas they affect, with the common cold primarily affecting the nose, the throat (pharyngitis), and the sinuses (sinusitis), occasionally involving either or both eyes via conjunctivitis. Symptoms are mostly due to the body's immune response to the infection rather than to tissue destruction by the viruses themselves. The primary method of prevention is by hand washing with some evidence to support the effectiveness of wearing face masks. The common cold may occasionally lead to pneumonia, either viral pneumonia or secondary bacterial pneumonia.
• A Second Suspect Arrested For the Murder of Niko Vargas:
  Another19 year old man was today arrested and formally charged for murder in connection with last month's death of a man in the village of Unitedville. San Ignacio police today informed of the return, from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution, of the murder case file in connection with the August 16, 2014, murder of Victor "Niko" Vargas which occurred in Unitedville. The first youth to be arrested and charged was Belizean laborer, Joseph Vacarro, 19. The file however returned with advice for the police to arrest a second suspect resulting in the arrest and laying of a murder charge against another young man identified as 19 year old Belizean laborer, Steven Gomez.
• First Ladies Global Call to Action Conference:
  Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow hosts the First Ladies Global Call to Action Conference Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, the Special Envoy for Women and Children and Spouse of the Prime Minister of Belize, hosted the "First Ladies' Global Call to Action Conference on Women's and Girls' Financial Health". The conference was a side event at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City on September 25th, 2014. Many of the World's First Ladies share similar concerns about the situation of the world's women and girls as it relates to their financial health. Mrs. Simplis Barrow was able to mobilize more than 25 First Ladies to attend. The side event was also attended by other eminent guests who have an interest in and can support follow up initiatives at the country and global levels-making this forum a means to catalyze partnerships with the First Ladies, UN officials, philanthropists, impact investors and NGOs focused on Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality.
• Mexico Frees Drug Lord's Nephew Martin Beltran Coronel:
  Martin Beltran Coronel was arrested in 2011 in western Jalisco state A Mexican court has ordered the release of Martin Beltran Coronel, who had been charged with organised crime. The court said due process had been violated. Mr Beltran Coronel, who is the nephew of the late drug lord Nacho Coronel, was arrested on 12 May 2011. The court said statements by witnesses had been "induced" and Mr Beltran Coronel's right to being considered innocent until proven guilty had been breached.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 5, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Three Burglaries - Three Arrested:
  As San Ignacio police continue the crackdown on increasing burglary reports, three men from Santa Elena Town were arrested and charged for burglary and handling stolen goods. Those arrested are Victor Hutchison, 43, Belizean driver residing on La Loma Luz Boulevard; Jerome Arnold, 45, Belizean laborer, of #69 Eve Street and Mike Middleton, 54, Belizean laborer who lives in an apartment on Maxi Street. In the first reported incident, Ronel Wagner, 37, Belizean businessman residing at Mile 69 on the George Price Highway between San Ignacio and Benque Viejo Town, visited the police station and reported that sometime between Tuesday night, September 9 and Wednesday morning, September 10, his business place, RW Electronics, located on Joseph Andrews Drive in San Ignacio, was burglarized.
• Heart Attack Claims Two More Lives:
  Heart attacks claims two more lives this week. The first incident occurred on Saturday, September 27, when police were called to the Bullet Tree Falls Village residence of Phillip Koeing, 44, Canadian, were they were directed to the lifeless body of a male person later identified as Michael Martin, 62, naturalized Belizean American from the same village. The investigation revealed that Mike was installing a Roto Plas water tank for Koeing when he collapsed in the yard. The body was transported to the Community Hospital in San Ignacio where it was officially pronounced dead. The legally required post mortem examination, conducted by Forensic Specialist Dr. Ken, certified that cause of death as Acute Pulmonary Edema, Acute Myocardial Infraction and severe Atheromatous of Coronary Arteries.
• Hundreds Of Agri-food Companies To Connect With International Clients At LACFlavors:
  Exporters from Latin America and the Caribbean will meet with buyers from around the world October 8-10 in M�rida, Mexico Follow us on Twitter at #LACFlavors / @BIDComercio @ConnectAmericas Hundreds of agri-food companies from Latin America and the Caribbean will meet with buyers from around the world at LACFlavors, which will be held October 8-10 in the Mexican city of M�rida. Organized by the Inter-American Development Bank through the platform ConnectAmericas.com - the first business-oriented social network in the Americas - the 6th edition of LAC Flavors is supported by ProM�xico, the Government of the State of Yucat�n, Mexico's Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA), through the Agency for Agri-food Marketing and Development (ASERCA) and Trust Funds for Rural Development (FIRA).
• Mineral Rights:
  The Ministry of Natural Resources and Agriculture reminds the general public that it is illegal to mine, prospect and/or remove minerals without a legitimate permit/license from the Mining Unit of the Ministry of Natural Resources and This is an offence prosecutable by law. Violators will be issued with a Stop Order to cease and desist such activities. Those that do not comply with the Stop Order will be fined and/ or imprisoned as per section 5 (a) (b) of Chapter 226 of the Laws of Belize Mines & Minerals Act.
• Traffic Fatality In Spanish Lookout:
  A road traffic accident in the Spanish Lookout community has claimed the life a helmetless young motorcyclist. Acting upon information received at around 2:00 pm on Tuesday, September 30 a team of policemen headed to the scene of a road traffic accident in Spanish Lookout. Arriving on the scene near Western Dairies the police came upon a white Toyota pickup with Guatemalan license plates parked at the entrance to Western Diaries. The vehicle was seen with a large dent on the passenger side door. About 10 feet away was a blue Meilun scooter on the ground almost in the middle of the road.
• New Rotary Scholars:
  On Thursday 25th September, six new Rotary Scholars, each with an accompanied parent, were invited to attend the Rotary Club of San Ignacio's weekly meeting to be introduced to the Rotarians who are partly responsible for making their continued education possible. Although many children from local primary schools applied, these 6 students were successful in their applications to receive a 4-year Rotary scholarship at one of the Twin-Town's high schools. The students introduced themselves to the Rotarians present and, after taking part in the Rotary Club meeting and receiving refreshments, were each presented with a Rotary pen. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio annually selects 6 ambitious students to receive this scholarship and currently is supporting 23 local children through high school.
• 5-Classroom Building for Our Lady of Fatima R.C. School Inaugurated:
  The BELIZE Natural Energy Charitable Trust is pleased to have partnered with Perenco Belize Limited as well as with Our Lady of Fatima R. C. School and the community of Douglas Village to construct the second phase of a two-story five-classroom extension building. This new extension replaces a badly deteriorated building that the students currently occupy. In February 2014, the Trust provided a grant of $100,000 with Perenco Belize Limited contributing a matching $100,000. As well, the community of Douglas Village provided counterpart funding in the form of labour. A ground breaking ceremony was held on March 3rd, 2014 and construction started immediately thereafter. The 25' x 80', 4,000 sq. ft. two-story extension building was completed on September 27th, 2014.
• Magistrate Ruling Overturned:
  San Ignacio Magistrate Narda Morgan was in court on Monday, defending her conduct in a Family Court matter held in her courtroom earlier this year. It concerns a child custody case and so we cannot name the persons involved for legal reasons. But the Magistrate is accused of overstepping her boundaries with regard to her handling of this case, and Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin overturned her decision on Monday. As it was explained to us, the woman's husband, represented by Rachel Montejo, appeared before Magistrate Morgan for an ex parte hearing resulting in her children being taken away from her without proper notice or representation. Rachel Montejo was also representing Magistrate Morgan for a different case but appearing in court before her was a conflict of interest.
• Inauguration Ceremony of the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo:
  The Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo held its Inauguration Ceremony on Saturday 27, 2014. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio is the sponsor of the newest Rotaract Club in Belize, making it a total of 6 Rotaract Clubs in the country. The Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo was established on April 2, 2014, and chartered by Rotary International on July 31, 2014. The Rotary Club of San Ignacio presented the Charter Certificate to President Miss Astrid Salazar. A total of 15 young adults were inducted as Rotaractors, and welcomed into the Rotary family. Rotary's Governor Elect for District 4250, Mr. Rene Villanueva Sr., was the Guest Speaker at the Ceremony. This is a historical moment as it is the first Rotaract Club to be founded in Benque Viejo del Carmen. The members are honored to be included in this great fellowship, and eager to continue its service to its local communities in the Cayo West Area.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease:
  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), also known as chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD), and chronic obstructive airway disease (COAD), among others, is a type of obstructive lung disease characterized by chronically poor airflow. It typically worsens over time. The main symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and sputum production. Most people with chronic bronchitis have COPD. Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of COPD, with a number of other factors such as air pollution and genetics playing a smaller role. In the developing world, one of the common sources of air pollution is from poorly vented cooking and heating fires.
• Mexico Charges Troops with Murder of "Gang Members":
  Mexican state police on 3 July 2014 inside a warehouse where a shootout between Mexican soldiers and alleged criminals on the outskirts of the village of San Pedro Limon, in Mexico state, Mexico. Mexico's attorney general has charged three soldiers with murder for their role in a shootout in late June in which 22 suspected gang members were killed. Jesus Murillo said the soldiers opened fire "without any justification whatsoever". The soldiers were among a group of eight held after the incident in Tlatlaya in the state of Mexico. At the time, the authorities said the victims were members of a drug cartel.
• Supporters of Danny Conorquie:
  A caravan of approximately four hundred demonstrators trekked out to the western border of Belize today in a show of support for the Belizean police force and murdered officer Danny Conorquie. Conorquie was killed last week at the Mayan site Caracol by a shooter believed to be a Guatemalan xatero. Tuesday morning the western highway leading to the border with Guatemala was under tight security, with no less than three police checkpoints between San Ignacio and the border zone. After the peaceable crowd was assembled, there was a stirring rendition of the Belizean National anthem followed by a prayer led by Pastor Lance Lewis. The prayer led by Lewis set the tone for the morning's speakers, with a strong endorsement for the Belizean police, a denouncement of Guatemalan policies towards Belize and demands for the GOB to get tougher with Guatemala. In closing Lewis said to the crowd's strong approval, "We are here for a purpose...this is our land and we will not back down...we have to draw a line in the sand."
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 12, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Two On A Handling Stolen Goods Charge:
  As we go to press this Thursday night, a Santa Elena youth, on a handling stolen goods charge, is in police custody awaiting appearance in court on Friday morning being the second of two persons charged for the same crime. The accused is Rasheed Hyde, 24, Belizean laborer residing on Higher Street in Santa Elena Town. Hyde is facing a joint handling stolen goods charge with Luis Castellanos, 37, of a Bradley's Bank address who was previously arrested and similarly charged. The charge against Castellanos and Hyde stems from a report made by Castellanos' Bradley's Bank neighbor, Nataniel Arriola, who told the police that sometime during the nighttime hours on Monday, September 29 and the early morning hours on Tuesday, September 30, someone entered his yard as a trespasser and stole his 2007 blue Meilun brand motorcycle valued at $3,000 which was parked in front of his house.
• Three Years For Unitedville Drug Trafficker:
  A man from the village of Unitedville was convicted on a drug trafficking charge and sentenced to three years behind bars. Armed with a warrant to conduct a search for drugs, almost ten months ago, on December 15, 2013, police visited the Unitedville residence of 35 year old, Belizean laborer, Luis Loague. It did not take much searching when, immediately upon entering the house, the police spotted what appeared to be marijuana spread out on the floor near a small bed. Loague, who was home alone at the time was instantly and, with the suspected marijuana, transported to the police station in San Ignacio. The suspected weed was recorded at exactly 900 grams.
• Editorial: Policing The Police:
  It is indeed refreshing to note that the police high command is taking affirmative action to swiftly deal with cases of alleged police brutality as nothing can erode citizens' confidence in law enforcement faster than brutality committed by those who are sworn and paid to serve and protect. Police abuse however comes in several other forms some less subtle than inflicting pain and bodily harm upon an individual. Police abuse also comes in the form of the policeman who unlawfully detains a citizen in the absence of evidence resulting in depriving citizens of their constitutional right to freedom solely for the purpose of getting back at a citizen. Much for example like the recent case of the father who, when the police, in detaining his son, slapped the son repeatedly in the face and when the father made a report against the offending policeman, the father is detained on the threat of being held for forty eight hours all because the police can hold him for forty eight hours without charge.
• Columbus Day:
  October 12th is the day in which the Americas observe Columbus Day, otherwise known as the Day of the Americas or Pan American Day. Belize celebrates this day with a national and bank holiday. This holiday commemorates the voyage taken by the Italian, Christopher Columbus about 500 years ago on behalf of Spain. Columbus made four voyages to the "New World"- in 1492 to San Salvador Island, Cuba and Haiti; in 1493-96 to Guadaloupe, Montserrat, Antigua, Puerto Rico and Jamaica; in 1498 to Trinidad and the mainland of South America and in 1502-04 to Honduras and Nicaragua. The discovery of the "New World" allowed European countries like Portugal, Spain, France and Britain to have empires around the world. These nations expanded their political control, their economic systems and their cultural influences in Africa, Asia, Australia and the Americas and eventually worldleading countries such as Mexico, Canada and the United States.
• US Embassy Clarifies:
  The goal of the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) is to support the Belizean military and people so that the United States and Belize can continue to work closely together in strengthening maritime security interests that affect both countries. In consideration of our strong U.S.- Belize partnership, USSOUTHCOM and the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan are currently examining the contracting procedures and construction efforts underway to address Government of Belize concerns.
• GOB Response:
  The Ministry of National Security hereby announces that the United States Army Corp of Engineers, the US agency responsible for the construction of the Hunting Caye Forward Operating Base, has issued a letter to the Guatemalan company BINARQ which has had the effect of causing all construction at the Base to cease. This action came about after consultations between the Ministry of National Security, the Belize Coast Guard and the United States agencies in Belize. The Ministry of National Security is insisting that this remains in effect until a satisfactory policy decision can be arrived at among all parties that takes into consideration the sensitivities expressed by sections of the Belizean population.
• Mexico Missing Students: New Mass Graves Found in Iguala:
  Four more mass graves have been found near the southern Mexican town of Iguala, where 43 students went missing last month, officials say. There is no word on the number of the bodies discovered in pits on Thursday. The discovery came during a huge operation to find the students, who disappeared after clashing with police. They were last seen being bundled into vehicles. Last week 28 burnt bodies were found in six shallow graves, but have yet not been identified. Forensic tests are expected to take weeks. Federal Attorney General Jesus Murillo Kara said the new graves also contained burnt bodies and are in the same area as the first set of graves.
• It's Not My Job:
  As I was reading John 7 recently, I saw again how God is not impressed with the same things that impress us. In this chapter, the Pharisees were trying to get rid of Jesus. So, they sent the temple guards to arrest him. But instead of arresting Jesus, the guards started listening to him. They'd never heard anyone like Jesus before, and they were captivated. Later when they went back to the chief priests and Pharisees without Jesus, they were confronted. "Why didn't you bring him in?" asked the Pharisees. They answered, "No one ever spoke the way this man does." "You mean he has deceived you also?" the Pharisees retorted. "Have any of the rulers or the Pharisees believed in him? No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law-there is a curse on them."
• Success Fundraiser in London:
  The Special Envoy for Women and Children and wife of the Prime Minister of Belize, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, held the 2nd annual Fundraising Gala Dinner in aid of the Belize Children's Trust on Wednesday, October 1st, 2014 at Old Down Manor in Bristol, United Kingdom, raising approximately BZD $300,000. Mrs. Simplis Barrow formed the Trust in 2013 to facilitate international fundraising efforts in support of a dedicated Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in Belize. Funds raised from the first Gala Dinner in June 2013 in London went toward the first phase of construction of the PICU at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital.
• International Credit Union Day:
  members around the world will celebrate International Credit Union Day®, an annual event to commemorate the credit union movement's impact and achievements. In honor of this special day, Saint Martin's Credit Union invites its members and the entire community to an Open Day on Thursday 16 October from 8:00am to 3:00pm at our offices on corner Eve and Church Streets, San Ignacio Town.
• Ebola Virus:
  Ebola virus disease, (EVD), Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF), or simply Ebola is a disease of humans and other primates caused by an ebolavirus. Symptoms start two days to three weeks after contracting the virus, with a fever, sore throat, muscle pain, and headaches. Typically, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash follow, along with decreased function of the liver and kidneys. Around this time, affected people may begin to bleed both within the body and externally. The virus may be acquired upon contact with blood or other bodily fluids of an infected human or other animal. Spreading through the air has not been documented in the natural environment. Fruit bats are believed to be a carrier and may spread the virus without being affected. Once human infection occurs, the disease may spread between people, as well. Male survivors may be able to transmit the disease via semen for nearly two months. To diagnose EVD, other diseases with similar symptoms such as malaria, cholera and other viral hemorrhagic fevers are first excluded. Blood samples are tested for viral antibodies, viral RNA, or the virus itself to confirm the diagnosis.
• Two Bullet Tree Men Jailed For Two Months:
  A Bullet Tree man and youth are cooling their heels in prison after being sentenced to two months jail time on a joint wounding charge. The case against the convicts, Melvin Quischan, 21, who told the court that he is employed as a security guard, and Sergio Cocom, 34, laborer, both Belizeans residing in Bullet Tree falls village, stems from a report made against them at around 7:30 pm on Saturday, October 4, by fellow villager, Omar Cruz, 40, Belizean farmer.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 19, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Seeing Prison Walls This Christmas:
  Two men, remanded to prison on a joint murder charge, will be returning to court on Tuesday, December 30. Charged with the murder of Kevin Andrew Taylor, two Belizean laborers, Tyron Rushford (also known as Tyron Gongora) 32, from Blackman Eddy Village and Brian Bell, 25, from Unitedville Village, appeared in the San Ignacio courtroom of magistrate Narda Morgan on Tuesday, October 14. The charge against Rushford and Bell stems from an incident which occurred at around 10:30 on the night of Friday, October 10, in a vacant lot near a shop in the village of Unitedville. The injured victim was rushed to the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan by a female villager who lives near the crime scene.
• Gone To Jail On A Sex Charge:
  A 19 year old man from Santa Familia village was sent to jail on an unlawful carnal knowledge charge. Accompanied by her mother, a 12 year old girl reported to police that on September 29, the accused Adrian Tun, 19, a Belizean laborer from Santa Familia Village had sexual intercourse with her. The legally required medical examination confirmed that the child had been carnally known. The investigation revealed that on September 28, the child was left in the care of a neighbor as the mother departed on a five day emergency trip to El Salvador. The mother had only gone for a day when it is alleged that the neighbors' 19 year old son had sexual relations with the girl.
• Editorial: Allowing The Minority To Have Its Way:
  Success in politics is all about the mass participation of voters in the electoral process. Conventions are conducted to allow as many supporters as possible a first opportunity to elect the candidates they want to represent them in the ensuing round of elections. Restricting the number of persons voting in a convention to a select very few is grossly unfair and disrespectful to voters and candidates alike as it presents obvious questions such as: Who selects the few voters that will make the decision for the masses? Are these special voters selected to favor one candidate over another? Were all candidates, or just the chosen ones, made aware of these special voters so as to afford them the opportunity to seek their support weeks before the convention?
• Five Belizeans Honoured:
  Five distinguished Belizeans were honoured for their dedicated and outstanding services to their community. The presentations took place today at the Belize House in the City of Belmopan. The insignias were presented by the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen.
• Mennonite Family Morns Loss Of Child:
  A freak accident in the Mennonite community of Spanish Lookout resulted in the death of a six year old boy. In a statement to the police, the child's father, Walter Penner, 35, naturalized Belizean laborer from Spanish Lookout, informed that at around 4:00 pm on Monday, October 13, accompanied by his four sons, ages 10, 9, 7 and 6, he was delivering a load of corn to Central Grain Dryers in Spanish Lookout. Penner told the police that he parked the tow head truck and trailer, as instructed, over the storage pit. Leaving his four sons inside the truck, Penner exited the truck was in the process of opening the discharge outlets located under the trailer. He said that just as he was about to open the eighth outlet, he heard his son's cry and saw, among the corn, the exposed leg of a child.
• CSKC Invitational Anniversary Karate Championships:
  The Cayo Shotokan Karate Club (CSKC) celebrated its 24th Anniversary in a grand fashion on Saturday, 27th September, by hosting an International karate championship, where 60 athletes competed to represent their clubs and countries. For the entire event the auditorium at Sacred Heart College was filled with constant roars from karate enthusiast and spectators. Still in the September patriotic mode our young athletes fought their hearts out to protect their home turf Belize, literally with blood, sweat and tears. The clubs who participated were Kazoku Shotokan Karate Dojo of San Ignacio, Cayo Shotokan Karate Club-Belmopan, Poptun Shotokan Karate Club-Guatemala, El Salvador, and host, Cayo Shotokan Karate Club-San Ignacio. At the end CSKCBelmopan overwhelmingly won the championship by winning 11 golds, 12 silver and 16 bronze medals. Second Place was CSKC-San Ignacio with 6 gold, 4 silver, 2 bronze medals. Third place was Guatemala with 3 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze medal.
• People's Coalition Of Cayo:
  On 8th October, 2014, the Peoples' Coalition of Cayo (PCC) held its Annual General Meeting at the San Ignacio police station. The out-going president, Julian Sherrard thanked the members for all of their work and he reminded them of some of their accomplishments of the past 12 months - POLICE STATION IMPROVEMENTS -Upgraded the video/audio camera (Advanced Security & Equipment Ltd (ASE)) - installed 2 a/c's (BECOL) - installed two doors (Cayo Neighbourhood Watch Association (CNWA)) - new standby generator (US Embassy) - electric hand-dryer (Benny's / Orange Gallery)
• Rotary's Toilet Block Projects:
  Our motto for the Rotary Club of San Ignacio is 'Educating our Youth', and to that end we have concentrated on improving the sanitation and health of our schools in Cayo District as one of our major project. Rotary Club of San Ignacio and our friends in Rotary Club of Reno Centennial Sunset wrote a Rotary Grant to help build a free standing Toilet Block for the Hills of Promise SDA school in Benque Viejo del Carmen. This was made possible with the contribution from both Rotary Clubs, Rotary District 5190, Rotary District 4250 and the matching funds from Rotary International This is 7th Toilet Block that Rotary Club of San Ignacio has built in Cayo, using the plans approved by the Ministry of Education and UNICEF. We use a local contractor who has become an expert in building these toilet blocks, always within the budget.
• What It Means To Be A Christian:
  Contributed By: Janice Swift Luke 14:33 - "Whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple." Three times over in this chapter, our Lord says these solemn words: "he cannot be My disciple." There are three conditions of discipleship. First, we must be prepared to put first things first; second, we must be willing to suffer daily crucifixion; third, we must be detached from all things, because attached to Christ. The conditions seem severe, but they must be fulfilled, if we would enter Christ's School. Disciple stands for learner.
• Leading Your Kids Through Their Fears:
  By: Lysa Terkeurst Contributed by: Janice Swift "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:32 (NIV) Tears. Wailing. Screaming. A full-blown meltdown. When my youngest daughter, Brooke, was a baby this was often my reality when I tried to run errands with her. I can remember just trying to get to one more place, knowing we should have been home an hour earlier for her nap. But also knowing there were things that had to get done, I pressed on, hoping for the best. Brooke, on the other hand, wanted to get out of that car, and she made sure everybody knew it. Whines quickly turned to screams. My touch has always comforted Brooke. And while I couldn't do much to comfort her while driving, I would often reach my arm into the backseat and gently pat her leg. It took a few minutes, but eventually she'd settle down and reach her tiny hand out to hold mine.
• Belize and Guatemala Hold Successful Meeting of the Joint Commission in Guatemala:
  The Belize-Guatemala Joint Commission met on 10 October 2014 in Guatemala City to discuss security concerns, including the recent incidents in the Caracol Archeological Reserve and reached 12 conclusions aimed at improving their effectiveness at combating illegal activities and transnational crime. Both sides held frank and open discussions on all security concerns and agreed to expand and strengthen cooperation. The Belize delegation was headed by CEO in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H.E. Alexis Rosado, and included Sen. Lisa Shoman, Representative for the Leader of the Opposition; Gen. David Jones, Commander of the Belize Defense Force; ACP Russell Blackett as Acting Commissioner of Police and Superintendant Marco Vidal, Head of Special Branch.
• Prime Minister Dean Barrow Signs $67.5 Million Agreement with European Union:
  Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dean Barrow has signed a 27 million Euro/ BZ$67.5 million National Indicative Programme (NIP) for the period 2014 to 2020 with the European Commission designed to advance the activities of the Government of Belize in alleviating rural poverty in Belize. Signing on behalf of the European Commission was the Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs.
• European Commission Proposes the Lifting of Ban on Importation of Belize Fisheries Products into the European Union:
  The European Commission has announced that it has proposed to the EU Council of Ministers that Belize be removed from the list of 'non-cooperating third countries'in the international fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This decision was taken after Belize demonstrated that it had addressed its structural problems and showed its real commitment to tackling illegal fishing. The Commission notes that since Belize was identified as a 'non-cooperating third country' in March 2014, it has reformed its legal framework and has adopted a new set of rules for inspection, control and monitoring of vessels.
• Shingles:
  Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash. Although shingles can occur anywhere on your body, it most often appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around either the left or the right side of your torso. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus - the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you've had chickenpox, the virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles. While it isn't a life-threatening condition, shingles can be very painful. Vaccines can help reduce the risk of shingles, while early treatment can help shorten a shingles infection and lessen the chance of complications.
• Social Investment Fund provides easier access for 200 students from 11 remote Rural Communities to enhanced Secondary Vocational Education:
  Over 200 students from 11 remote villages in the Toledo District will now have easier access, and enhanced quality Secondary Vocational Education thanks to the construction of Corazon Creek Technical High School Extension built by the Government of Belize at a cost of $595,895.00 with funds financed through a grant from the Caribbean Development Bank under the Basic Needs Trust Fund Sixth Programme (BNTF 6). Students from the 11 remote villages - Corazon Creek, Graham Creek, Mabilha, Dolores, Crique Sarco, San Benito Poite, San Lucas, Santa Teresa, Conejo Creek, Otoxha, and Sunday Wood will now have the opportunity to obtain a quality secondary education in Business, Academics/ Sciences of Vocational Training in their new three-classroom single storey ferro-concrete school extension which provides a unique teaching and learning environment.
• Ebola Crisis: US Says Cuban Medical Support 'Welcome':
  Cuba is a "welcome" addition to the fight against Ebola, a senior US official has said. A state department spokesman said the Cuban government was doing more than many others to contain the disease. "We welcome their support," she said. The US has maintained an embargo on Cuba for more than five decades. Last month, Havana announced it would send about 450 medical and support staff to the region. The BBC's Will Grant in Havana said that Cuba already had a tradition of sending its doctors and nurses to Africa before the recent Ebola outbreak.
• Colombia Gang 'Behind Venezuela Lawmaker Serra's Murder':
  President Maduro promised to track down those behind Mr Serra's murder. Robert Serra and Maria Herrera were stabbed to death in Caracas. Mr Maduro said Mr Serra's bodyguard had confessed to conspiring with a Colombian gang to kill the member of the National Assembly. The president also said that there had been a series of attempts to kill other top socialist party officials. Mr Maduro had previously blamed "ultra-right" opposition groups in Venezuela and in neighbouring Colombia for the murder.
• Cruise Ship Passenger Quarantined:
  The Government of Belize was contacted today by officers of the US Government and made aware of a cruise ship passenger considered of very low risk for Ebola. The passenger had voluntarily entered quarantine on board the ship and remains free of any fever or other symptoms of illness. The Ebola virus may only be spread by patients who are experiencing fever and symptoms of illness and so the US Government had emphasized the very low risk category in this case. Nonetheless, out of an abundance of caution, the Government of Belize decided not to facilitate a US request for assistance in evacuating the passenger through the Phillip Goldson International Airport.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The October 26, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Hot Point Marijuana Bust:
  A man from Santa Elena Town was today arrested and charged for the possession of a controlled drug with the intent to supply. On Tuesday, October 21, at around 1:15 pm, on a search for drugs, police visited the residence of Patrick Gordon located in the Hot Point area of Santa Elena. Just as the police was approaching they saw a shirtless male person running from the house with a black plastic bag in his right hand. Police set chase after the fleeing man. He was found hiding in bushes without the plastic bag. When asked about the whereabouts of the bag he reportedly pointed to an area about three feet away and said "See it deh, dat da the bag". Police retrieved, not one, but two black plastic bags, both containing suspected marijuana.
• Burglar Caught Red Handed In Spanish Lookout:
  A male resident of Billy White village was today remanded to the Hattieville Prison on a burglary charge. San Ignacio police inform that on Wednesday, October 22, at about 12:15 a.m. they received an anonymous phone call informing that a burglar had been detained at Farmers Choice Butane Gas in Spanish Lookout. Arriving about an hour later, police found a handcuffed male person in front of the building. The owner of the burglarized business place, Geharel Rempel, 45, informed that he was at home when he received a call from a friend informing that the friend and the friend's brother captured a male person who was burglarizing the business place.
• Ministry of Health Celebrates Dental Health Week:
  The Ministry of Health is this week celebrating Dental Health Week under the theme, "BELIZEANS BIG-UP YOUR SMILE, IT REFLECTS YOUR STYLE". Activities are being carried out by dental departments across the regions. The Public is especially invited to a Dental Health Fair which will take place on Friday, October 24th, at Central Health Region Compound in Belize City. Within the last year, the Dental Department has conducted and participated in several trainings to update the staff and improve on the services offered to the public. One training session was focused on dental care for children with special needs and in addition, staff also benefitted from lessons in sign language.
• GOB Host Violation Exercise:
  The Ministry of Energy, Science & Technology and PublicUtilities in collaboration with the Inter- American Development Bank and Costalia Strategic Advisors is hosting the final validation exercise of the Belize Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Strategy at the Radisson Fort George Hotel on Tuesday, October 28, 2014 from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. The session is geared towards getting a final feed back on the Sustainable Energy Strategy and Action Plan from the original set of stakeholders who have participated in the consultation process or have vested interest in the energy sector. It is expected that at the end of this validation exercise, consensus will be agreed upon on the way forward with the action plan which outlines schedule, process and cost estimates on the activities that will allow Belize to achieve a sustainable energy scenario by 2033.
• Rugby Training Starts:
  Though it may only be a sandy patch of ground, the Saca Chispas field in San Pedro made history recently as it became the venue for the first official training session for children participating in Belize's newest sports activity, rugby, as members of the San Pedro Turtles rugby club. "We're starting small," says Martin Dawson, organisor of the San Pedro Turtles, "and we are aiming to get a rugby sevens team organized very soon. We know there are more children and youth in San Pedro that would like to play rugby with us, and they are welcome to come along". The game, already popular throughout Central America, is played by both girls and boys, young and old, and in a variety of variations.
• Ministry of Health Conducts Activities for the Possible Entry of Ebola:
  The Ministry of Health continues to conduct multiple activities associated with the global threat of Ebola. The Ministry of Health is pleased to share an update on several activities carried out within the past week. Two isolation facilities have been stationed at the Phillip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) compound and the precise specifications of these facilities are currently being reviewed. Revisions have also been conducted on surveillance activities at the airport for further strengthening.
• A Eulogy:
  Not long ago, I was privileged, honoured and blessed to visit my father's birthplace, the small town of San Francisco in Peten, Guatemala. After a royal tour provided by relatives, I visited, at my request, the town's cemetery. It was a sight to behold! It was more than the resting place of departed loved ones. It was more like a garden come alive with freshly, recently placed wreaths on each and every tomb. It was divine! In a few days' time, All Saints Day or Finados will be upon us once again. Santa Rita Cemetery in San Ignacio and the Santa Elena cemetery will be visited by friends and relatives of the departed and wreaths will be left in kind remembrance of them. But the sad truth is that many tombs have remained abandoned and forgotten. As a grateful people we should do something about it.
• You Can't Cram for What Matters Most:
  I checked my watch as I sat down to study. Twelve hours until my test. Pouring a cup of coffee, I added sugar, stirred, tasted and added another teaspoon of sugar. I was going to need it to prepare for the all-nighter before me. Oh, there were many reasons I could have given you for waiting until the night before to study: my part-time jobs, other demanding classes and a boyfriend who I was sure would be my husband one day. They were good excuses ... but underneath all the superficial reasons was the truth: I hadn't done a good job of studying. Rather than tackling a little bit each day when I had free time, I used that time for other things ... things I felt I deserved for working so hard! Plus, I was counting on an adrenaline surge the night before the test and laser focus due to the pressure.
• Farewell: Paul Nabor- A Belizean Cultural Icon:
  In 2011 and 2004, Paul Nabor was honoured for his contribution to culture and music at the 'Tribute to Belizean Patriots' with the Order of Distinction and Meritorious Service Award, respectively. In 2004, this international icon who was fluent in English, Spanish and Garifuna, was bestowed with the honourable title of "Distinguished Guest," during a visit to Tegucigalpa, Honduras. While there for the release of fellow Paranda musician, Aurelio Martinez's Garifuna Soul album, Nabor received a signed proclamation from the officials in Honduras; an honour which further cemented his popularity, not only in Belize, but in the region.
• Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo's First Annual Cancer Walk:
  The Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo held its First Annual Cancer Walk on Saturday, October 18, 2014. The objective of the Cancer Walk, which will be an annual community service event, is to raise awareness about cancer which affects women, men and children, especially Breast Cancer Awareness which is observed during the month of October. The Cancer Walk was also a fundraising event to raise funds for cancer patients in Benque Viejo and San Jose Succotz. Rotaractors approached residents and businesses within the community for monetary donations. Participants of the Cancer Walk and attendees at the Benque House of Culture's Annual Art Fiesta also gave monetary donations. The Cancer Walk started about 4:45 p.m. in front of the ferry in San Jose Succotz, and it was escorted by Mr. Heraldo Rancharan from the Benque Viejo Traffic Department. There were about 40 participants from Benque Viejo del Carmen and San Jose Succotz.
• Breast Cancer:
  Breast cancer is the development of cancer from breast tissue. Signs of breast cancer may include a lump in the breast, a change in breast shape, dimpling of the skin, fluid coming from the nipple, or a red scaly patch of skin. In those with distant spread of the disease, there may be bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, shortness of breath, or yellow skin. Risk factors for developing breast cancer include obesity, lack of physical exercise, drinking alcohol, hormone replacement therapy during menopause, ionizing radiation, early age at first menstruation, and having children late or not at all. About 5-10% of cases are due to genes inherited from a person's parents, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 among others.
• Mahmud Resigns:
  Joseph Mahmud, he's the elected PUP Representative for Cayo North. We have confirmed that he has told the party he is stepping down as standard-bearer and will not contest that seat for the PUP in the next general election. We have confirmed that Mahmud sent a letter last week to the party headquarters announcing his decision. What's behind it? Well, reports tell us that Mahmud had differences with the other PUP General's in the West, principally Julius Espat, who is the PUP Deputy Leader for the West. Today Deputy Espat wouldn't discuss it only saying, quote, "It's a sensitive issue�I wish him all the best. And I''ll be there to support him in whatever decision he makes�" End quote.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The November 2, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Complainant Does Police Work:
  A 31 year old man of Duck Run 1 was today arrested and charged for rape allegedly committed almost five months ago. It was shortly after 7 o'clock on Monday morning, June 9, 2014, when a 20 year old female visited the San Ignacio police station and reported that she was raped. In a statement to the police the complainant informed that at around 5:30 am that morning, at the junction of Joseph Andrews Drive and Bullet Tree Road in San Ignacio Town, she board a parked red car which she believed was a taxi for a ride home. The complainant alleges that on the way to her destination the male Hispanic driver diverted into a dirt road on the left side of the highway near Rumors Resort. He allegedly drove a short distance into the road, locked the doors and had sexual intercourse with the complainant without her consent.
• Did The Police Plant The Bullets?:
  Three men from the western village of Unitedville, charged for keeping ammunition without a license, today walked free of the charge. The charge against the three Belizean laborers identified as Eric Elrington and Edwardo Olivera, both 27 and Robert Leiva, 18, stems from a May 23rd search, by the police, at Elrington's house in Unitedville. The search according to the police resulted in the discovery, on a table in the kitchen, of an ammunition box allegedly containing seven live rounds of point 22 bullets. All three men were instantly detained and transported to the police station in San Ignacio where they were later arrested and jointly charged for keeping ammunition without a license. The men pled not guilty to the charge and, in accordance with the law, were remanded to prison.
• Editorial: The PUP Is Bad For Belize:
  Writing with the firm belief that Belizeans are conscious, informed and unwaveringly committed to improving the national standard of living as the nation's infrastructure is undergoing unprecedented development; we will save the details of the latest display of blatant selfishness by the leadership of the opposition People's United Party (PUP). The Petro Caribe Agreement between Belize and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela came into existence under the Musa/Fonseca government during the latter part of 2006. The delivery of fuel from Venezuela, under the agreement caught the PUP government totally unprepared in 2007. It was a fiasco. When the first shipment arrived the government had no storage facility. The product remained in the harbor for several days costing taxpayers around 15 thousand dollars per day. It was a nightmare until Shell Belize Limited was eventually threatened to provide its facility to store the produce.
• Boy Accused Of Burglarizing Bar:
  A 14 year old boy was today taken to court on a burglary charge. In a statement to the police on Sunday, October 19, Rigoberto Gonzalez, 41, Belizean businessman residing in Blackman Eddy village informed that sometime between the11:00 pm closing time on Saturday, 18 October and the 10 o'clock opening time the following day, Sunday, October 19, his bar in the neighboring village of Buena Vista, was burglarized. The missing items includes 24 cases of Belikin beers and stout, 2 cases of Heineken beer, 2 cases of Guinness stout, 15 cans of Monster energy drink, several packs of assorted brand cigarettes, 5 USB flash cards and 160 dollars in cash, all at a total of two thousand two hundred and ninety seven dollars.
• Incomplete Case File - Attempt Murder Charge Dismissed:
  the presiding magistrate, an attempt murder charge goes down the drain. The incident occurred over 19 month ago in Santa Familia Village, Cayo. At around 11:15 pm on Saturday, March 16, 2013, San Ignacio police responded to a call from the San Ignacio Community Hospital regarding a male patient undergoing emergency medical treatment for chop wounds to the left side of the head as well as to the middle, ring and small fingers of the right hand. Police investigations revealed that the patient, identified as Kent Rivera, 22, Belizean laborer from Santa Familia Village, was socializing at a Chinese restaurant in the village when an altercation erupted between Rivera and a male Hispanic person identified by Rivera as Cain "Chino" Quewell.
• Letters:
  Dear Editor; Recent developments at Sacred Heart College in San Ignacio has many asking ourselves and others: "Is Sacred Heart College engaged in religious discrimination?" While all forms of discrimination is explicitly prohibited by the education rules, a recent incident at Sacred Heart College, San Ignacio, smells of the practice of religious discrimination. A few months ago the President of the college, Dr. Eve Aird tendered her resignation to move on to greener pastures. The post became vacant and was advertised internally. An application, submitted by the serving Academic Vice Principal, Mr. Karim Juan, was the only sent, as requested, to the Board of Directors, in conformity with the deadline.
• Hypertension:
  Hypertension (HTN) or high blood pressure, sometimes called arterial hypertension, is a chronic medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated. Blood pressure is summarised by two measurements, systolic and diastolic, which depend on whether the heart muscle is contracting (systole) or relaxed between beats (diastole). This equals the maximum and minimum pressure, respectively. There are different definitions of the normal range of blood pressure. Normal blood pressure at rest is within the range of 100-140 mmHg systolic (top reading) and 60-90 mmHg diastolic (bottom reading). High blood pressure is said to be present if it is often at or above 140/ 90 mmHg. Hypertension is classified as either primary (essential) hypertension or secondary hypertension; about 90-95% of cases are categorized as "primary hypertension" which means high blood pressure with no obvious underlying medical cause. The remaining 5-10% of cases (secondary hypertension) are caused by other conditions that affect the kidneys, arteries, heart or endocrine system.
• High Milk Diet 'May Not Cut Risk of Bone Fractures':
  Drinking lots of milk may not lower the risk of fracturing bones, a study in the British Medical Journal suggests. The research, conducted in Sweden, showed women who drank more than three glasses a day were actually more likely to break bones than those who had less. The researchers cautioned that their work only suggested a trend and should not be interpreted as proof that high milk consumption caused fractures. Milk has been recommended as a good source of calcium for many years but studies considering whether it leads to stronger bones and fewer fractures have had conflicting results.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Public Notices

The November 9, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Accused Female Crack Peddler Arrested:
  A female villager of St. Mathews village, Cayo, was found in possession of 14.4 grams of suspected crack cocaine, was formally arrested and charged for possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply. Acting upon information received on Thursday, October 30, a female was escorted into the police station in San Ignacio Town where she was told that she would be searched for drugs. Telling the police that a search would be unnecessary, the detained reached into the left side of the brassier she was wearing and pulled out a transparent plastic bag containing 14.4 grams of suspected crack cocaine. She was further searched by a female police corporal who found nothing else incriminating.
• Man Charged For 0.8 Grams Of Weed:
  A Santa Elena man was arrested and formally charged for the possession of less than a gram of weed. On Tuesday, November 4 at around 10:50 am, a team of San Ignacio policemen, on routine foot patrol in San Ignacio, came upon a male person in conversation with three Caucasian males on Burns Avenue. The male person was approached and informed that he would be searched for drugs. In his right front pocket, police found a transparent zip lock bag containing what appeared to be marijuana.
• Editorial: The Time To Stand Up For Your Nation is NOW!!!:
  The trumpet of the nation has sounded, heed the call. We are all invited to descent upon Belmopan on Tuesday, November 18 to show our support for the unprecedented development taking place across the nation. National development occurring for the first time in Belize include the first National Bank of Belize, a revived Development Finance Corporation of Belize as well as the many social justice programs benefiting tens of thousands of Belizeans in the form of School Subsidies, Food Pantry, Boost, Christmas and other Cheers as well as the housing loan write offs and the announced December mortgage payment for all Belizeans with housing loans up to one hundred thousand dollars held at all financial institutions in Belize.
• The Belize Chamber of Commerce & Industry's 3rd Annual Christmas Expo Extravaganza!:
  December 6th and 7th should already be locked on the calendars of everyone looking for good deals and merry steals this Christmas season! Kick off December with the Chamber as we host our 3rd annual Christmas Expo Extravaganza at the Ramada Belize Princess Hotel Kings Room on Newtown Barracks in Belize City. Festivities start at 9:00 am and go straight through to 6:00 pm on both days.
• Waitress Allegedly Held At Gunpoint:
  Two men are in police custody pending investigation into a robbery report which occurred on Tuesday, November 4, in the Santiago Juan Layout area of San Ignacio. Acting on information received police visited J and K Restaurant on Flamboyant in San Ignacio, where Martha Pineda, 21, waitress, reported that at around 10:00 p.m., while she was alone in the restaurant, Waitress Allegedly Held At Gunpoint an unmasked male person of dark complexion, slim built, about five feet five inches in height, wearing a black sweater and black short pants, entered the restaurant and held her up with what appeared to be a pistol. The complainant informed that the man placed the gun to her neck and led her to the bathroom and locked her up therein.
• Ringworm:
  Ringworm is a skin infection due to a fungus. Often, there are several patches of ringworm on your skin at once. Causes Ringworm is common, especially among children. However, it may affect people of all ages. It is caused by a fungus, not a worm like the name suggests. Many bacteria and fungi live on your body. Some of these are useful, while others can cause infections. Ringworm occurs when a type of fungus called tinea grows and multiplies on your skin. Ringwork can affect the skin on your: * Beard -- tinea barbae * Body -- tinea corporis * Feet -- tinea pedis (also called athlete's foot) * Groin area -- tinea cruris (also called jock itch) * Scalp -- tinea capitis Ringworm can spread easily from one person to another. You can catch ringworm if you touch someone who has the infection, or if you come into contact with items contaminated by the fungus, such as combs, unwashed clothing, and shower or pool surfaces.
• GOB Signs Grant:
  The Government of Belize and World Bank Sign Grant for "Management and Protection of Key Biodiversity Areas in Belize" Project Belmopan. November 6, 2014: The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) and the Government of Belize signed a Grant Agreement on November 5, 2014 for US$6.9 million. The grant is provided by the Global Environment Facility and is being administered by the World Bank. This large grant was approved for a five-year project entitled "Management and Protection of Key Biodiversity Areas in Belize", which will be executed by the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development.
• Ride for Octavia Waight Center:
  Challenge Gobie Foundation - Charity Bike Ride for Kitchen Expansion Project, Octavia Waight Centre, home for the elderly in Belize - November 23, 2014 The Octavia Waight Centre, a non-profit organization and home for the elderly, in San Ignacio, Belize is in need of a new kitchen. The Centre's mission is to provide the elderly with an environment that enhances dignity and self-esteem, as well as, physical and mental well-being. The home currently houses 28 senior citizens, whose ages range from 60 to 106 years old and two days per week they provide meals (on-wheels) for 24 senior citizens who live in the communities of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. With an expanded and upgraded kitchen the Centre will be able to provide more options for nutritious meals to the in-house residents and expand the meals-on-wheels service to 5 days per week and for more persons.
• Hon. Rene Montero and Your UDP Government at Work!:
  Photo essay.
• History of the Garifunas:
  As a true melting pot of various cultures, Belize has woven bits and pieces of many ethnicities to make what we know as our beautiful country. With many cultures coming in, tradition and custom sometimes disappear as the days go by. However, a group that is not going silently is the Garifuna. With November 19th, being their special day and designated a national holiday, Garifunas countrywide live up to this year's theme of Proudly empowering our children in their Garifuna heritage. On May 18th, 2001, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed the Garifuna language, music and dance a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity. Belize's very own Andy Palacio, celebrated musician and singer was honored with the title of Artist for Peace by UNESCO. With much history, culture, tradition, song, food, religion, the Garifunas have certainly left their mark in Belize. For that, we feature them in this week's Our Belize Community.
• Did you know�:
  The Garifuna Settlement Day holiday was created by Thomas Vincent Ramos in 1941? Thomas Vincent Ramos lived from September 17, 1887 to November 14, 1955 where he passed away in his Stann Creek home at the age of 68. Ramos was born in Puerto Cortes, Honduras but later moved and spent most of his life living in Belize. He worked as a school teacher and was known for being a Civil Rights Activist with primary concern being the lack of health and financial facilities to aid the Garinagu living in Dangriga. He formed the Carib Development Society as a way to help the sick and render financial aid to bury their dead.
• Brazilian Footballer Adriano Charged with Drug Links bought a motorbike in 2008 and:
  Former Brazilian football international Adriano has been charged with links to a drug lord in Rio de Janeiro. Prosecutors said that Adriano gave a drug dealer a motorbike that was used in criminal activities. The Brazilian striker had a successful career in Italy, winning titles with Inter Milan. But off-field problems and injuries cut his career short. Adriano, 32, had been negotiating a comeback with second division French club Le Havre. The allegations first emerged in 2010.
• Bul Under Canto's B:
  A man from San Antonio Village, allegedly caught hiding under a bed, was today arrested and charged for burglary. On Monday, November 3, 2014, Rosarita Canto, 53, Belizean domestic residing in San Antonio Village, reported to police that at about 9:30 pm on Saturday, November 1, 2014, she encountered a man hiding under a bed in her room. In a statement to the police Canto informed that, accompanied by her daughter and son-in-law, she was in the lower flat of her two storey wooden house in San Antonio Village, Cayo.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The November 30, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Who Bex Bex!!! Mahmud Resigns From The House:
  "Who Bex Bex"!!! Joseph Mahmud, Peoples United Party (PUP) Area Representative for Cayo North, has abruptly resigned. About a month ago Mahamud had indicated that he would not be seeking re-election in 2017 but would serve out his term. Today however, all that changed when he resigned as a member of Parliament. This immediately puts his Cayo North seat up for grabs as a bi-election must be held within the next 90 days. The UDP is rearing to go with its standard bearer Omar Figueroa, who was elected as Standard Bearer earlier this year in February. The PUP on the other hand has not found a new standard bearer since Mahmud indicated he would not run again. Attorney Michel Chebat and businessman Richard Harrison have both declared an interest in the division. The PUP must now move quickly to hold a convention to either elect or endorse someone. It must be said that the opposition seems to have been caught with their pants down, because up until mid October Mahmud said that he would serve out his term and not seek re-election, he mentioned nothing about resigning. However, something happened between then and this morning at 11:00 am, when he resigned with immediate effect.
• Bahadur And Molina Remanded To Hattieville:
  Two young men from Santa Elena have been remanded to the Central Prison in Hattieville for the rape and forcible abduction of a 14 year old minor. On Sunday, November 16, a female minor accompanied by her mother visited the San Ignacio police station and reported that whilst walking on George Price Avenue in the company of her sister, a red heavily tinted four door car, pulled up beside them when an occupant of the vehicle alighted wearing a white cloth covering most of his face, revealing only his eyes, forced her sister into the waiting car. She reported that upon witnessing this, she ran away.
• Editorial: Still I Rise:
  By: Maya Angelou, 1928 - 2014 You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I'll rise. Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? 'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I'll rise...
• Mexican President Pena Nieto To Overhaul Police:
  Mexico's President Enrique Pena Nieto delivers a speech during a national broadcasting message from National Palace in Mexico City, M�xico, 27 November 2014. Protesters have criticised Mexico's leader over the disappearance of 43 students. Mexico gang 'admits student deaths' and Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto has announced plans to overhaul the country's police forces, in the wake of the disappearance of 43 students. Mr Nieto said he would unify all local police units into one national force. The students, all trainee teachers, went missing in September after joining a protest in Iguala, Guerrero state.
• World AIDS Day 2014:
  December 1st is World AIDS Day. The National AIDS Commission (NAC), the National HIV Programme of the Ministry of Health and their partner agencies invite you to become an interactive part of World AIDS Day 2014 activities. This year's theme is: Getting to Zero: Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths. HIV is now considered to be a concentrated epidemic in Belize. The recently completed Modes of Transmission Study suggests that around 70% of new infections in 2014 will occur in men and thus the shift of the response has now turned towards testing more men.
• Influenza (Flu Virus):
  There are two main types of influenza (flu) virus: Types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. Influenza A viruses can be broken down into sub-types depending on the genes that make up the surface proteins. Over the course of a flu season, different types (A & B) and subtypes (influenza A) of influenza circulate and cause illness. Flu Symptoms & Severity Influenza Symptoms Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
• Body Of Canadian Man Found In Mopan River:
  The lifeless body of a man, was retrieved from the Mopan River on Sunday, November 23, the person was wearing only a black jacket. Nicole Warner, 54, naturalized Canadian accountant, residing in Bullet Tree Falls village reported to police that on Saturday, November 21, at about 4:00 p.m. she picked up her husband, James Garfield Searles, 59, Canadian national, from the Philip Goldson International Airport and headed back to San Ignacio. She informs that whilst enroute to San Ignacio, they stopped at Amigos Restaurant and Bar, had food and a few drinks. Upon arriving in San Ignacio, they stopped at ABC Supermarket on the Bullet Tree Road to purchase a bottle of Travellers Gold and two cokes. Shortly after, at around 6:30 p.m. they arrived home in Bullet Tree Falls, where they continued drinking.
• San Ignacio Resort Hotel's restaurant, Running W Steakhouse, Introduces Fresh New Menu Items:
  Running W Steakhouse will launch its latest menu that features new, innovative items made fresh daily by our Chefs. The restaurant, known for its local and international cuisine, welcoming atmosphere and premium meats from their own family ranch, will introduce the new menu on December 1st which includes eight new appetizers, four new sandwiches & salads, nine new entr�es, six new desserts and several new cocktails. During the process of revamping the Running W Steakhouse menu, the restaurant tested many of the new dishes on the weekly specials menu. "We had so many great ideas for new dishes that it became extremely difficult choosing what should be featured permanently," said Kristin Utsman, Assistant Manager."We have enough new dishes to feature 3 different menus that will be introduced seasonally"
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The November 7, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Six Santa Elena Men Arrested And Charged For Drug Possession:
  Six Santa Elena men were arrested and charged for the possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply. On Friday, November 28, San Ignacio police were on routine patrol on George Price Avenue in Santa Elena when their attention was drawn to six men sitting around a table in the yard. Upon approaching the young men police immediately smelt a strong marijuana scent. The young men around the table were searched and however nothing incriminating was found. Further checks in the immediate vicinity led to the discovery of a red Emperador biscuit pack lodged between a zinc and a piece of lumber, the bag contained three small transparent plastic bags containing a green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana.
• Organic Produce Becoming A Reality For Belize:
  Organic vegetables are in high demand due to safety concerns. Not too long ago all food grown in Belize was organic. With commercial growing came agrochemicals and concerns about the health of both the soil and the consumer. In recent times in Belize, the only way to assure that food is grown safely and organically is to grow your own. Consumers worldwide have become increasingly alarmed at the incidence of agrochemical poisons in their food because indications are that it is the cause of increases in cancer and other serious diseases. There are many people who simply don't want produce that has been exposed to agrochemicals or other environmental toxins and GMOs. Some people are turning to organically produced vegetables in Belize because they know that agrochemicals are often not safely used. Washing can't make vegetables safe because some of the chemicals are inside the produce. Belize, unfortunately, is not yet sufficiently monitoring the safety of the vegetables in the markets.
• Another Santa Elena Man On Drug Possession Charges:
  A Santa Elena man was found in possession of 6.6 grams of suspected cannabis. On Tuesday, December 2, police on mobile patrol on Carmen Street, leading into Carillo Puerto Avenue in Santa Elena saw a suspicious male person walking in the opposite direction on Carmen Street. Upon seeing the police, Jonathan Smith, 40, Belizean laborer, threw a green object to the side of the street and continued walking. Police stopped and escorted Smith to the area where they saw him throw the object. Upon reaching the area police observed that it was a green leafy substance suspect to be marijuana. Smith was cautioned and escorted to the San Ignacio police station.
• Clarification on GOB December 2014 Residential Mortgage Payment Program:
  Through the Residential Mortgage Payment Program, the Government of Belize will assist qualifying Belizeans by reimbursing December 2014 interest and principal payments on all residential mortgages with an original value of up to BZ$100,000.00. Borrowers from the National Bank, Commercial Banks, Credit Unions, the Development Finance Corporation and the Belize Social Security Board can apply for assistance; however borrowers must meet the following criteria approved by Cabinet: 1. Must be residential mortgages of original value of no more than BZ$100,000.00;
• Belize Officially Hands Over Pro-Tempore Presidency of COMISCA:
  Following two days of regional discussions at the XLI Ordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers of Health of Central America and the Dominican Republic (COMISCA), Minister of Health Hon. Pablo Marin today officially transferred the Pro-tempore Presidency of COMISCA to the Minister of Health of Guatemala Luis Enrique Monterroso, who will now serve for the next six months. Minster of Health Hon. Pablo Marin expressed his appreciation for the cooperation received during his time as Pro-tempore President. Minister Marin commented, "Enormous strides have been made in Belize and the region and we look forward to further progress in the next year." During Belize's Presidency, new challenges including Ebola and Chikungunya had been addressed. Renewed attention was focused on chronic diseases including HIV/ AIDS, Tuberculosis and Family & Community health.
• Reaching Perfection:
  Steel is iron plus fire. Soil is rock, plus heat, or glacier crushing. Linen is flax plus the bath that cleans, the comb that separates, and the flail that pounds, and the shuttle that weaves. Human character must have a plus attached to it. The world does not forget great characters. But great characters are not made of luxuries, they are made by suffering. I heard of a mother who brought into her home as a companion to her own son, a crippled boy who was also a hunchback. She had warned her boy to be very careful in his relations to him, and not to touch the sensitive part of his life but go right on playing with him as if he were an ordinary boy. She listened to her son as they were playing; and after a few minutes he said to his companion: "Do you know what you have got on your back?" The little hunchback was embarrassed, and he hesitated a moment. The boy said: "It is the box in which your wings are; and some day God is going to cut it open, and then you will fly away and be an angel."
• Fruit Comes from Deep Roots:
  "The seeds that fell on rocky ground are the people who gladly hear the message and accept it. But they don't have deep roots, and they believe only for a little while. As soon as life gets hard, they give up." (Luke8:13 CEV) During the springtime, all the grass in Southern California turns green, the wildflowers and poppies bloom, and it's really pretty. But the moment the rains stop, the hills turn brown again. Why? Because the grass has no roots. It can't go down deep enough to get water from the springs that are deep beneath the ground. When there are no roots, when a plant is in shallow soil, it may initially sprout and look good, but it doesn't last. The plants wither quickly because they don't have roots. Luke 8:13 says, "The seeds that fell on rocky ground are the people who gladly hear the message and accept it. But they don't have deep roots, and they believe only for a little while. As soon as life gets hard, they give up" (CEV).
• Opening of the Xunantunich Education Centre:
  The Making Tourism Benefit Communities Adjacent to Archaeological Sites (MTBCAAS) project has achieved yet another important milestone, with the completion of The Xunantunich Education Centre, as well as infrastructure improvements and installation of signs at this site. The completion of works at this site marks the first of a total of nine sites which are being enhanced under the MTBCAAS Project. The project is funded under the Belize Rural Development Programme II (BRDPII), supported by the European Union and the Government of Belize. For the first time, the spectacular archaeological site of Xunantunich has a dedicated space to provide training to students and archaeologists alike. The 950 square feet facility will allow the Institute of Archaeology to provide on-site training in a proper facility boasting an audiovisual room and a dedicated classroom that can accommodate up to 40 persons in two different spaces at any one time.
• Glaucoma:
  Glaucoma is a term describing a group of ocular (eye) disorders resulting in optic nerve damage or loss to the field of vision, in many patients caused by a clinically characterized pressure buildup in regards to the fluid of the eye (intraocular pressureassociated optic neuropathy). In a large number of glaucoma patients, however, the intraocular pressure (IOP) is normal, i.e. below 20 mm Hg. These patients display the same signs of glaucomatous damage as those with an elevated IOP; their condition is thus called normal tension glaucoma. The disorders can be roughly divided into two main Glaucoma categories, "open-angle" and "closed-angle" (or "angle closure") glaucoma. The angle refers to the area between the iris and cornea, through which fluid must flow to escape via the trabecular meshwork, an area of tissue in the eye located around the base of the cornea. Closed-angle glaucoma can appear suddenly and is often painful; visual loss can progress quickly, but the discomfort often leads patients to seek medical attention before permanent damage occurs.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 16, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Popular Santa Elena DJ Brutally Murdered In Esperanza Village:
  The dead body of a popular Santa Elena DJ was found off a feeder road in Esperanza village. On Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at around 4:30 p.m. San Ignacio police were informed of the discovery of a dead man clad in only a t-shirt and boxers found off a feeder road in Esperanza Village. Upon arrival, the lifeless body of a male person was seen laying face up with what appeared to be cut wounds on the head with blood covering the face. The male person was on his knees in a bending position. Closer inspection led police to identify the male person as Samir Fernandez, 24, Belizean laborer of a San Pedro Street address in Santa Elena. While processing the scene, police discovered a short pants, a pair of black slippers, and a dark grey Samsung watch.
• Huge Drug Bust In Shawville Area:
  Today, over 84, 000 grams of marijuana was found in the Shawville area in San Ignacio. On Monday, December 8, 2014 Special Branch personnel on routine patrol in the Shawville area of San Ignacio, came across four "El Quetzal" crocus sacks in the bushes. The sacks were searched and found to contain what appeared to be a green leafy substance consistent with that of marijuana. At the time of the discovery no one was in the area.
• Mexican Luxury Hotel Development Group Investing in Belize:
  The Government of Belize, through BELTRAIDE, is pleased to announce the completion of the sale of the island of Caye Chapel, on Monday 8 December, 2014. Caye Chapel, an island in the Belize District, consisting of 265 acres, was purchased by a leading Mexican luxury hotel development group. The group, who are owners and operators of luxury tourism developments in Mexico City, Cancun, and Acapulco, are currently working on a detailed development plan for the island for presentation to Government. It is expected that this plan will include the announcement of the partnership with a renowned global luxury hotel brand, to be announced in the near future, as well as the development of high-end residencies and other amenities.
• Scientists Make 'Feel Full' Chemical:
  Scientists have created a chemical that can be added to food to make people feel full. Initial tests showed it helped people to eat less and slow weight gain. It harnessed the power of a proprionate, which naturally makes us feel full when it is produced by breaking down fibre in the gut. Writing in the journal Gut, the UK researchers said their chemical would have to be eaten regularly to have an effect. The ingredient is a foul-tasting soluble powder, but the team, from Imperial College London and the University of Glasgow, are trying to incorporate it into bread and fruit smoothies.
• UniBAM Celebrating Human Rights Day:
  The United Belize Advocacy Movement joints organizations around the World in celebrating Human Rights Day today December 10th. The day marks the United Nations General Assembly adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and was first formed in 1950, when the General Assembly invited all member states and other organizations to celebrate. The theme for 2014, "Human Rights 365", it is a reminder that everyone is entitled to basic rights. UniBAM calls on all organization on this day to continue to express the values and principles of human rights, to ensure its inclusiveness and impact to quality of life of all citizens as rights are indivisible and universal.
• HelpAge Belize Celebrates Human Rights Day:
  HelpAge Belize in collaboration with its partner agencies joins the rest of the World and Affiliate Members of HelpAge International in celebrating World Human Rights Day, December 10th, 2014. HelpAge International is marking the occasion with a renewed call for governments to challenge the wide range of human rights violations experienced every day by many older women and men. "Discrimination against men and women on account of their older age is one of the last remaining forms of prejudice to be tackled on a global basis," said Toby Porter, Chief Executive at HelpAge International. "This has to change and a new UN convention on the rights of older people is the way to challenge age discrimination."
• Criticism: Giving and Receiving:
  Have you ever asked someone to give you an honest criticism? A very positive action on your part is to solicit criticism when appropriate. Ask for it, if you please. A sign of maturity is recognizing you don't know it all and you're open to learn more and to change, and you want to improve. Have you ever asked your boss for some honest feedback? Have you ever said, "I realize I need to improve in this area. Can you give me some good pointers on how to do that?" Soliciting appropriate criticism says a lot about you, and the response you receive is generally given in a positive way, much more palatable than unsolicited criticism. Instead of a criticism, it becomes a "critique." There's a perceived difference in a criticism and a critique.
• Shame On Me, Again:
  "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1 (ESV) It happened suddenly and without warning. One minute I was sitting in a booth, laughing over a cup of coffee with my youngest son on his college campus (which just so happens to be my alma mater). The next minute, I'm driving away from my old college stomping grounds when the mere sight of a corner drugstore triggers a painful reminder of my past. It just so happened to be the same corner drugstore that one of my roommates and I ducked into late one night under a cloak of darkness to purchase a pregnancy test. She was late and had assumed the worst. It turned out it was negative, but it just as easily could have been me purchasing the test.
• Diphtheria:
  Diphtheria is an upper respiratory tract illness caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a facultative anaerobic, Gram-positive bacterium. It is characterized by sore throat, low fever, and an adherent membrane (a pseudomembrane) on the tonsils, pharynx, and/or nasal cavity. A milder form of diphtheria can be restricted to the skin. Less common consequences include myocarditis (about 20% of cases) and peripheral neuropathy (about 10% of cases). Diphtheria is an infectious disease spread by direct physical contact or breathing the aerosolized secretions of infected individuals.
• Avoiding Poisons In Your Cayo Food:
  The second symposium on Finding Healthy / Safe Foods in the Cayo District will be held Saturday 13th December at the Maya Mountain Lodge's conference facility. The November symposium focused on safe market produce. This month the focus is on processed boxed and canned foods as well as concerns about GMO. The January one will be on finding safe animal products. All symposiums follow the agenda pattern of Market place, consultation, and learning exchange. The symposium will run from 12-4 pm with the following schedule: 12-2pm Market place where you can connect and buy from providers of healthy foods. 2-3 pm Consultations on the results from the last symposium 3-4 pm Presentation followed by "learning exchange" by participants on dangers of processed foods.
• Brazil 'Serial Killer' das Gracas Alleges 42 Deaths In A Decade:
  Brazilian police have arrested a man who has confessed to the killing of 42 people over the last decade in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Police say they arrested Sailson Jose das Gracas on Wednesday, shortly after he stabbed a woman to death in a city suburb. He then confessed to killing another 37 women, three men and a two-year-old girl. The police are searching for alleged victims and say they have found four. In a police interview broadcast on Brazil's TV Globo, the man said he would go out hunting, and he killed for the adrenaline.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The December 21, 2014 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Nomination Day for Cayo North:
  Today was nomination day for the upcoming by-election in Cayo North that is to be held on Monday, 5 January, 2015. This morning a crowd of about 200 PUP supporters gathered in the Columbus Park in downtown San Ignacio. We saw many PUP representatives, elected officials and political candidates from all over the country, each of them brought their own supporters. And while the national figures were out in force, we didn't see a great deal of Cayo North voters. PUP candidate, Richard Harrison, who was nominated in the San Ignacio courtroom by 6 constituents, says his supporters and voters had to work. The turnout left much to be desired. While it was a weekday, political credibility has a threshold and it certainly wasn't met on this occasion.
• Police Jailed for Indecent Assault:
  Police Constable Randolph Scott began his 60 days in jail after he was convicted on Monday, 15 December, 2014 by Chief Magistrate, Ann-Marie Smith, of aggravated assault of an indecent nature on a fellow female police officer. The incident happen on October 26, 2013, at the Belama Precinct 4 police station, according to the female officer, Scott touched her legs, pulled up and pushed his hand inside her skirt. He also squeezed her breast, pulled her hand to touch his private area and then exposed his genitals to her. The key eyewitness was on-duty officer Manuel Mai, who claimed that Scott offered him to do the same as he did when he was finished.
• Black Fruit Cake:
  The fruits will need to be soaked in rum and sugar at least 7 days before making cake. Put aside a little flour to flour the fruits before adding to batter. This keeps fruits from settling at the bottom of the cake. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating constantly. Add flour, baking powder and spices into the butter, sugar and eggs mix with a spoon. Then add stout and colouring to the mixture. Beat for about 4 minutes at high speed. In a separate dish pour the rum off the fruits. (The rum should be kept to add to the finished cake after cooling) Flour fruits and add to the batter.
• Belizean Rum Popo Recipe:
  Belizean Liquor that's similar to Egg Nog but can be potent. Soak cinnamon stick and raisins in rum for 2 days. Beat eggs well (15-20 minutes Removing beater and rinsing in clean water several times to remove strings (eye of egg) Add Evaporated milk & beat again. Add condensed milk and check for desired sweetness. Add grated nutmeg & rum (that was used for soakingstrain before using) Mix again and store in clean dry bottles.
• Belize Forges New Environment Gains for Central American Countries:
  Belize has forged major gains on climate change, the environment and sustainable development for the Central American region, it was revealed, on Tuesday, December 16, 2014. Belize's six months presidency of the Central American Commission on Environment and Development (CCAD) which ends this month, has been marked by new levels of co-operation and integration between countries. Belize's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, and Protemp President of CCAD for the last six months, the Hon. Lisel Alamilla highlighted her main achievements at a CCAD Ministerial at the meeting in Placencia.
• Communion And Transformation:
  Moses, as he returned from the mountain of vision, where he had beheld as much of God's glory as seems possible to man, caught some gleam of the Light which he beheld. There was a strange radiance on his face, unknown to himself, but visible to all. He remained long enough in the presence of God to become saturated with the light and glory of the Lord. What wonder that he sparkled with it and was compelled to cover his face with a veil!
• A Merry Heart for a Merry Christmas:
  During this Christmas season, I'm talking about how to have a merry heart for a truly merry Christmas. We noted that putting a smile on our faces is one simple way to help others be merry. A second way to have a merry heart is to choose words that are cheerful. Proverbs 16:24 says "Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Did you ever realize that pleasant words from you can really bring healing to other people-even physical healing to their bones? It's so easy for us to get caught up in the negative, complaining atmosphere that is usually prevalent in our working worlds. If you want to have a merry heart, start concentrating on having pleasant words.
• Yellow Fever:
  Yellow fever, known historically as yellow jack or yellow plague, is an acute viral disease. In most cases, symptoms include fever, chills, loss of appetite, nausea, muscle pains particularly in the back, and headaches. Symptoms typically improve within five days. In some people within a day of improving, the fever comes back, abdominal pain occurs, and liver damage begins causing yellow skin. If this occurs, the risk of bleeding and kidney problems will also increased. The disease is caused by the yellow fever virus and is spread by the bite of the female mosquito. It only infects humans, other primates, and several species of mosquitoes. In cities, it is primarily spread by mosquitoes of the Aedes aegypti species. The virus is an RNA virus of the genus Flavivirus. The disease may be difficult to tell apart from other illnesses, especially in the early stages. To confirm a suspected case, blood sample testing with polymerase chain reaction is required.
• Cuba's Raul Castro Urges US To Lift Trade Embargo:
  Cuban President Raul Castro has urged the US to end its trade embargo after the two countries opened formal talks on restoring diplomatic relations. He said the five-decade embargo "caused enormous human and economic damage". But only the US Congress has the power to lift the embargo, and correspondents say many Republicans are still deeply opposed to this. On Wednesday, US President Barack Obama and Mr Castro agreed a number of measures to improve ties. They included the release by Cuba of US contractor Alan Gross and three Cubans held in the US.
• Fishers and Vessels Licensing:
  The Belize Fisheries Department hereby advices fishers and the general public that due to unforeseen technical issues, the licensing of fishers and vessels that was to be carried out in various coastal communities starting Monday December 15, 2014 has been postponed until early January 2015. The new dates for licensing being conducted in these communities will be circulated on a later date, via press release and radio announcements. However, the renewal of fisher and vessel licenses in Belize City will be done as per normal at the Licensing Office of the Belize Fisheries Department starting Monday December 15, 2014.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The January 4, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The January 11, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Omar Figeroa Wins Historic Landslide:
  On Monday, 5 January, 2015 bi-elections in Cayo North, 13 ballot boxes from two polling stations were carted over to the Center for Employment Training compound. That was the counting station for only the third divisional bi-election in Belize's history. Voting started slow that day but when polls closed at 6:00 pm, figures say the final turnout was 4023 voters or about 61% of the registered voters - that's in line with the divisional bi-election in Freetown in 1993 where 60% came out. And while the voters were slow to come out early on - the mass parties muscled in on the division and flooded the area with supporters from all over the country.
• Bernadette Fernandez - One Of Four To Receive Queen's Honors:
  Her Majesty the Queen, Queen Elizabeth II has been graciously pleased to make the appointments of the most exelent order Brritish Empire on the occasion of the New Year honors 2015. Four Belizeans were honored under three cathegories. There are as follows: . The honor to be a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) was granted to attorney at law Michael Young, whose award is for services rendered to the legal profession and the community. The honor to be officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) are Esther Ayuso for services to the community and women's rights and Laura Longsworth for services to nursing and the community.
• A Time for Everything:
  As it was mention long ago There is a time for everything And if you do the very good To you the best future bring There is a time when the very strong, also becomes the weak And everyone on this here earth is designated to a friend There is a time to listen and a time to speak When you travel anywhere every road have an end There has been times that you have failed And times that you have passed all test There is a time for you to harvest After what you have invest
• You're Still in Process�:
  You are not who you were yesterday, You are not who you will be tomorrow. You're in the middle of the beautiful process of becoming. We fight that as women, don't we? We tell ourselves we have to be it all, do it all, know it all now. We deny ourselves permission to learn. And when we can't learn, we can't grow. I thought about this recently as I stood in the curtain section of TJ Maxx saying these words over and over to myself: You're learning to decorate your house. You're learning to decorate your house.
• Hon. Rene Montero Christmas 8 Ball Tournament in Cayo - Shooters Champs!!!:
  The 2nd annual Hon. Rene Montero Christmas 8 ball tournament which began six weeks ago ended on Dec 21,2014, at Link-Up Bar, in Santa Elena, Cayo. The finals was truly a grand Christmas dance as if it was a national tournament with Shooters going up against the defending champs, Link-Up, whereby it was the best of two matches, meaning two teams had to win four games to become the champ. In the first match, Shooters started shooting sharply by defeating Link-up, 2-1. For Shooters, Gilbert Luna calmly won Juan Villanueva, 4-2, and David Fernandez used his sling like when David took down Goliath as he won Jimmy Rudon also, 4-2. But, Wayne Wiltshire stepped up big time for Link-Up and won Luis Usher, 4-1, to give his team hope. So, we off to the second match, and this time it was Link-up defeating Shooters, 2-1.
• Eighth Annual Boom to Manatee Lookout Canoe Race- January 10th:
  Its time to get the season started with the "8th Annual Boom to Manatee Lookout Canoe Race" sponsored by, Belize Global Travel Services Ltd., Joseph & Taylor Ltd, Bear Mountain Boats in Canada and Architectural Accents Ltd. The race is scheduled for Saturday, 10th January and marks the first race for the season. The race is for MEMBERS ONLY and those wishing to participate who haven't submitted their membership application can do so before the race. Also, canoes that have not been registered, you will be able to get this done before the race as well. All canoes must have on a BCAnoe Racing number. Avoid the rush come early, Race starts 10 sharp, no delays! The race will have an entry fee of $50 per team and all paddlers will receive a free BBQ at Manatee Lookout.
• Bun Up Busted With Weed:
  A well known Santa Elena man was arrested and charged for the possession of a controlled drug. San Ignacio police were conducting their usual patrol in Santa Elena when they saw Albert "Bun Up" Myvett, 45, Belizean laborer, riding a black beach cruiser bicycle on the George Price Highway. Myvett was stopped and searched. Police reportedly found on his person, a yellow plastic bag in the front part of his pants.
• Costa Rica Boat Accident Kills Three Elderly Tourists:
  Survivors were taken to Costa Rica's Herradura beach, in Puntarenas Three elderly tourists were killed in Costa Rica when a boat carrying more than 100 people capsized in rough seas. The victims are a British man and a Canadian and an American woman, said the Costa Rican authorities The catamaran was taking tourists unidentified woman told local television. The Pura Vida Princess was carrying 99 tourists and 10 crew when it sank some 15km (nine miles) offshore.
• Why Do I Have So Many Issues?:
  "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1 (NIV) Have you ever looked at other people and thought to yourself, "How does everyone else have it all together? And why is it I seem to have so many issues?" I understand. For most of my life, I've struggled with my weight and committing to a healthy lifestyle. My soul was rubbed raw from years of trying and failing. I wanted something to instantly fix my issues. I wanted to stop calling myself awful names I'd never let another person call me. I wanted to be naturally thin like my sister. I wanted to stop crying when I walked into my closet to get dressed in the morning.
• Ayala Sentenced To Twelve Years In Jail:
  Four men and a minor were arrested for the possession of a controlled drug. On Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at about 8:20 am, police conducting routine patrol in the area of Stanton Street in San Ignacio Town, noticed a suspicious male person at a garage standing by a blue plastic drum. As they approached the garage the said male person went inside the storeroom, while the others waited outside. Police then informed the group that they will be conducting a search for drugs. The men were all searched and immediately after the blue drum was searched and found to contain some loose green leafy substance which was suspected to be cannabis.
• Insomnia:
  Insomnia, or sleeplessness, is a sleep disorder in which there is an inability to fall asleep or to stay asleep as long as desired. While the term is sometimes used to describe a disorder demonstrated by polysomnographic or actigraphic evidence of disturbed sleep, this sleep disorder is often practically defined as a positive response to either of two questions: "Do you experience difficulty sleeping?" or "Do you have difficulty falling or staying asleep?" Insomnia is most often thought of as both a medical sign and a symptom that can accompany several sleep, medical, and psychiatric disorders characterized by a persistent difficulty falling asleep and/ or staying asleep or sleep of poor quality. Insomnia is typically followed by functional impairment while awake. Insomnia can occur at any age, but it is particularly common in the elderly. Insomnia can be short term (up to three weeks) or long term (above 3-4 weeks); it can lead to memory problems, depression, irritability and an increased risk of heart disease and automobile related accidents.
• Mexico Police Held Over Abduction Of Journalist Sanchez:
  Colleagues of Moises Sanchez think the state may have colluded in his kidnapping Thirteen municipal police officers are being held in the eastern Mexican state of Veracruz over the kidnapping of a journalist on 2 January. Moises Sanchez was abducted from his home by armed men on 2 January. Mr Sanchez works for a newspaper in the city of Medellin and is known for his coverage of drugrelated violence. The arrests come amid a series of horrific disappearances and murders in which the security forces are alleged to be involved.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

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The January 25, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Mystery Surrounds Death of Emerson Daly:
  Today is a tragic day for the family and friends of Emerson Daly, as all hopes for his safe return came crashing to an end when they found his body. On Tuesday, January 20, 2015, a report was made by the family of Emerson Daly, 24 year old Roaring Creek Resident, who was missing since the evening of Sunday, January 18, 2015. The young entrepreneur, according to family members, left home around 8 pm on Sunday in his vehicle belonging to his uncle and was reportedly heading to Belmopan. Emerson didn't return that night. Belmopan police received a major lead when the vehicle, he was last seen driving, was found abandoned on Mount Pleasant Road located between miles 46 and 47 on the George Price Highway. Police recovered the car, but there was no sign of Daly, only what appears to be blood stains inside and a pair of slippers. Immediately thereafter, a search team was organized to scour the area in Mount Pleasant area.
• Wanted - Emmanuel Willoughby:
  Be on the look out for this man. He is Armed and Dangerous. He has been seen around the Santiago Jaun layout area. A twenty-five year old inmate, Emmanuel Willoughby, escaped from the Central Prison . Willoughby ingeniously cut a hole on his cell door which facilitated his break from the prison at around three o'clock on Saturday morning. He was incarcerated for the Possession of Unlicensed Firearm and was serving a five-year sentence which he would have completed on December eleventh, 2017. According to a release from the Kolbe Foundation, Willoughby is affiliated to the Jerusalem Gang. Kolbe also notes that his sibling, Julian Willoughby, was killed in March of this year.
• Alleged Rapist Missing:
  Wednesday, January 14, 2015. Police today, Wednesday, January 14, 2015, issued a missing person's report for a man from San Ignacio town. According to police the wife of 35 year old Anibal Diaz went to the police station to report that he left his home in the Santiago Juan area of San Ignacio around 7 pm on Monday, January 12, 2015, to go fishing in the Macal River. That was the last time she saw him. Anibal Diaz is described as being of slim build, has low, straight black hair and has a tatoo of a dragon on the right upper arm. He was last seen wearing a blue short pants and an off-white shirt and blue slippers. Police are looking into the missing person's report.
• NEBL Season Will Open With Last Year's Finals Rematch:
  The National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) Season will tip off on Friday, February 6, 2015. There will be eight teams participating in this year's tournament, which are Orange Walk Running Rebels, Belize City No Limit Soldiers, new comers Belize Hurricanes, defending champs San Pedro Tiger Sharks, Belmopan Red Taigaz, defending sub champs Cayo Western Ballaz, Dangriga Warriors and Toledo Diplomats. The tournament will employ a home and away format, with each team playing a total of 14 regular season games. The top four teams will advance to the playoffs in a best-ofthree series to decide who will reach the finals, which will be a best-of-five series. The playoffs are scheduled to commence on May 22, 2015.
• ELECTIONS AND BOUNDARIES DEPARTMENT NOTICES:
  IT IS NOTIFIED for general information that the Elections and Boundaries Commission, pursuant to Section 18 (1) of the Belize City Council Act, Chapter 85 of the Laws of Belize, has appointed the RETURNING OFFICER named below for the Belize City Council Election to be held on Wednesday, the 4th day of March 2015, and the Chief Elections Officer, acting pursuant to Section 18(2) of the said Act, has appointed, with the approval of the Elections and Boundaries Commission, the ELECTION CLERKS named below for the said Belize City Council Election:-
• Varicose Veins:
  Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. The term commonly refers to the veins on the leg, although varicose veins can occur elsewhere. Veins have pairs of leaflet valves to prevent blood from flowing backwards (retrograde flow or venous reflux). Leg muscles pump the veins to return blood to the heart (the skeletal-muscle pump), against the effects of gravity. When veins become varicose, the leaflets of the valves no longer meet properly, and the valves do not work (valvular incompetence). This allows blood to flow backwards and they enlarge even more. Varicose veins are most common in the superficial veins of the legs, which are subject to high pressure when standing. Besides being a cosmetic problem, varicose veins can be painful, especially when standing.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The February 22nd, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• SAN IGNACIO MAN CHARGED FOR WEED:
  A resident from San Ignacio Town was busted with suspected cannabis. Today, Wednesday, 18 February, 2015, Police, at about 1:45pm, visited a 2nd Street address of Emmerson Manzanero to conduct a search. Upon arrival, police questioned Manzanero if there is anything incriminating located inside the house but Manzanero was brutally honest and admitted to the officers that there is a bag of weed in the room. He was immediately placed under arrest and was cautioned. Police conducted their search inside the house and found a bulky black plastic bag on the floor along with a grey digital scale. The officers then open the bag in the presence of Manzanero. The bag contained green leafy substance suspected to be that of cannabis. Manzanero was then escorted to the San Ignacio Police Station. At the Station, the suspected cannabis was weighed in the presence of Manzanero which tipped the scales at 257 grams.
• Branch Mouth Residents Busted:
  Two men from Branch Mouth Road were busted and charged on Wednesday, 4 February, 2015. The San Ignacio police conducted a search at the residence of Jorge Dubon, 49 year old Honduran National from Branch Mouth Road. On arrival, police saw Dubon and Stuart Bradley, 65, sitting on a log that was located in the yard at the back of the house. At that time, Dubon had a white paper in one hand and the other hand was clinched. Dubon was asked to open his hand which contained green leafy substance suspected to be cannabis. Bradley was searched, however, nothing incriminating was found on him. Police continued to search around the yard and 25 feet away they found a black plastic bag that was hidden under some zinc sheets. The bag was opened in their presence which contained suspected cannabis.
• Fire Season Is Here:
  The Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development and the Forest Department hereby inform the general public that the Fire Season is on. In Belize, the Fire Season is observed from February 15 to June 15 annually. With the periodical onset of the dry weather, the general public, especially agricultural farmers, are asked to take all the necessary precautions when using fire for their daily necessities such as the burning of their garbage and preparing land for cultivation. Most forest fires originate from the negligent use of fire by farmers for the burning of their milpas and other agricultural lands. In most instances agricultural fires tend to get out of control due to the time of the day when the fire is lit and the failure of the farmer to open fire lines around the entire perimeter of the land clearing. We therefore encourage farmers NOT to burn during the hottest part of the day (10 am - 2 pm) and ensure that at least a 3 meter wide fire line is cleaned around your milpa.
• Residents Of Belmopan And Surrounding Communities Benefiting From Improved Road Infrastructure Project:
  Residents in the nation's capital, Belmopan and surrounding communities are enjoying, and benefitting from two paved streets due to a road infrastructure project financed by the Government of Belize at a cost of BZ $417,802.00 through a loan from the World Bank under the Belize Municipal Development Project (BMDP). Counterpart funding by the Belmopan City Council totaled $12, 534.06. This means that the infrastructure road project will facilitate and provide motorists, pedestrians, and bicycle riders with a better and more pleasant street environment; thus, providing men, women and children, with easier access to traverse to, and from their homes, schools, and places of businesses in their daily lives. The completion of the road infrastructure project on Almond Boulevard and Chiquibul Street is also contributing significantly in improving the quality of life for all residents in the nation's capital and its surrounding communities; since they will no longer have to be confronted by poor road conditions such as dust during the dry season and mud during the rainy season. Other key beneficiaries from the transformation of this road project are vehicle owners who, will not only be driving on a smooth surface, but, will also experience a reduced impact as it pertains to vehicle maintenance and repairs. Additionally, the project is contributing to the mitigation of traffic congestion on Mountain View Boulevard; and will serve both residential and commercial sectors by providing improved access route to Constitution Drive, which represents one of the main economic arteries in Belmopan.
• Feed The World:
  There is a growing thought that we don't need inorganic fertilizers and chemicals to grow our food to feed our world population of some 7 billion people, reaching some 9 billion in the next three decades. It is believed by some that organic farming, an apparently more sustainable holistic farming system, can do the job. While this statement could be technically correct, it begs the question, at what price, and at what level of sustenance. In my opinion, this shift using organic materials as soil amendments and source of plant nutrients may only be possible if we become vegetarians, or reduce our meat intake significantly. (A high percentage of our chemicals are used to produce feed for meat production, and in recent times, for fuel from corn and sugarcane.) In essence, we would need to move away from American/European type diets which have become more popular with creeping affluence around the world, and move more towards traditional Asian type diets. This paradigm shift on a global basis is not impossible, but highly unlikely.
• Avian Influenza In Poultry Detected In Cayo District:
  On the 15th Avian Influenza type A in two (2) poultry farms in Spanish Lookout, Cayo District. It was detected as a result of routine testing under the Belize Poultry Improvement Plan. Samples tested by an International reference Laboratory in the USA has confirmed the presence of Avian influenza H5N2 antibodies in one farm only but not the live virus. BAHA continues to test and has detected presence of Avian Influenza Type A in one other farm. There are very little clinical signs in the affected birds, which may indicate a response to the low pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N2 virus. This virus predominantly affects poultry. There is very low risk for transmission from poultry to humans and there is no evidence of human to human transmission. To date, testing of all surrounding farms continues to confirm that the outbreak is only in those two farms. Containment measures in effect prohibit all poultry and poultry products from exiting the affected farms. In addition, BAHA has set up other control measures, in the Spanish Lookout area, such as movement control of live birds, eggs, and other poultry products.
• Undefeated Western Ballaz:
  League (NEBL) kicked off on Friday, February 6th, with some huge surprises in the opening weekend. The national anthem harmoniously sang by the Moreno Sisters - Solie and Julie - heralded the arrival of the 2nd National Elite Basketball League Tournament Friday night inside San Ignacio and as usual, the Sacred Heart College Auditorium was packed to capacity. Nevertheless, the introduction of the home team, last year's sub-champion, Western Ballaz, was propelled to the next level pulling out all the stops with lights, sounds and smoke in a presentation that will be difficult to surpass. That night, the Ballaz play host to the newest addition to the NEBL, Belize Hurricanes, under head coach, Matthew Smiling-a new team venturing into a tournament with ferocious competition. In the opening game on Friday night, Cayo Western Ballaz (1 - 0) defended their home court, as they easily took care of the new franchise Belize Hurricanes (0 - 1) by the score of 85 - 52.
• Western Ballaz Press Release:
  The Western Ballaz executive committee through this medium would like to make our position known to the general public about our relationship with Sacred Heart College Inc. (SHC). We know this fact: SHC has had the community of San Ignacio and Santa Elena and all communities as priority in its service endeavor in education. SHC has grown through the years by offering excellence in education and upstanding values for its students and the greater community. There is absolutely no reason for doubt in the mind of the Western Ballaz management and team of SHC's interest to continue serving the community in every way, including our basketball team and for the public who passionately support our team. For the record, SHC has never intentionally or with any malice attempt to refuse your Western Ballaz team from using the facility.
• Western Ballaz - Schedule:
  
• Rotary Park Undergoing Renovation:
  A new set of playground equipment is on the way for installation at the Rotary Park in Santa Elena town, Cayo. The equipment is coming from Canada and will be installed over the course of two days, on March 7 and March 8. To make way for the new equipment, members of the San Ignacio Rotary Club were out at the park on Saturday morning to put in "sweat equity" as the preparation of the Rotary Park for the major upgrade is well underway. With shovels in hand, wheelbarrows at the ready, a backhoe on hand and a dump truck filled with sand, the Rotarians went to work on a bright, sunny and warm Saturday morning ripping up old concrete slabs and carting them away. According to the president of the San Ignacio Rotary Club Sheree Fuaki, the upgraded Rotary Park in Santa Elena town, including the new playground equipment, will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday, March 11.
• Saint Martin's Credit Union Youth Month:
  As part of our ongoing effort to promote and market the vision, mission and philosophy of credit unions and promote financial literacy and savings among our young people, our credit union has designated the month of February as "Youth Month." Throughout the month, our credit union will be visiting primary schools in the area to educate and promote savings among our young people. This will be achieved by engaging them through interactive activities and hands on approach. Primary schools will also have the opportunity to participate in our annual Credit Union Quiz Contest. Students from primary schools in the following zones will participate to elect one winner from each zone. These winners will take home cash prizes and promotional items as well as cash prizes for the winning school.
• Ground-Breaking - Ceremony At The Octavia Waight Center:
  We are pleased to announce that the Ground-Breaking for the expanded kitchen at the Octavia Waight Center took place on Sunday February 1st 2015. Mr Evan Dakers, Chairman of Help Age Belize, was the guest speaker of the short ceremony and he extended his gratitude and support of the Octavia Waight Center and their efforts to assist the elderly people of San Ignacio and the entire country of Belize. Through collaboration with Challenge Gobie Foundation, the Octavia Waight Center has already raised 50% of the $100,000 needed to complete the project. The Challenge Gobie Foundation spearheaded a bike ride in November 2014 and through this was able to raise awareness on the project as well as much needed funds from generous donors within Belize, the United States and the United Kingdom. Work is expected to commence shortly on the improved and expanded kitchen and should be completed in as early as three months.
• Tourist Dies In Traffic Accident:
  There was a serious road traffic accident this morning on the George Price Highway in St. Matthew's village. The Incident happened around eleven thirty this morning which involved a tow-head truck that was hauling oranges and a small SUV. One of two American tourists traveling in the SUV died, while the other was treated first at the Western Regional hospital and later transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial in Belize City for further medical treatment. Fifty six year old Teresa Lin Muers died while undergoing treatment, having suffered serious head and body injuries.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 1st, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• BDF CORPRAL AND WIFE SENTENCED:
  A couple from Billy White village was separately sentenced to 5 years imprisonment. The incident happened on Thursday, 22 December, 2011, when personnel from the Special Branch department conducted a house search at the residence of Gerald August, 34 year old Belizean BDF Corporal. Present at the time along with August was his wife, Loida August, 24 year old Belizean Domestic of the same address. During the search police found a black Pietro Beretta .9 pistol with the serial number tampered with, which was found inside a box with clothes. Upon further checks of the house, police led to the discovery of six Sellier and Bellot 12 gauge cartridges under the sewerage bowl behind the kitchen area along with one 5.56 magazine with twentyseven (27) 5.56 rounds of ammunition and 3 metal clips each containing ten live 5.56 rounds in a black plastic bag that was buried 6 inches and covered with two pieces of board.
• Mckoy Five Years Behind Bars:
  Today the trial for a 17 year old San Ignacio man concluded as he was found guilty inside the San Ignacio Magistrates court.The magistrate at the time, Narda Morgan, sentenced him to 5 years imprisonment. The incident occured on Friday, 13 December, 2013 at about 11:30 when police was conducting their mobile patrol on Flamingo Street in San Ignacio. Police notice a dark male person who they identified as Carlton Mckoy, 17 year old Belizean laborer of San Ignacio. Police then exited the mobile patrol and approached Mckoy who was walking towards a shop and upon entering the shop he throw something behind the counter.
• Public Health Notice: Measles Advisory:
  The Ministry of Health has been advised by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of an outbreak of Measles at the Disneyland Resort in air droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although Measles remains prevalent in many parts of the world, Belize has been free from the disease since 1991. In order to maintain our Measles free status, the recommended and most cost-effective public health approach is to advise persons to get vaccinated with the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
• La Ruta Maya Belize Canoe Race:
  The annual Ruta Maya Canoe Race brings together professional and amateur paddlers from Central and North America and Europe every March. Picture Above, government telephone company team at 2012 race. The annual La Ruta Maya Belize Endurance Canoe race is the longest race of its kind in Central America. One hundred and seventy miles of paddling on the Belize River over the course of 4 days. The race gets underway in San Ignacio Town Cayo District just under the Hawksworth Bridge. Between 90 and 100 teams from Belize, U.S.A., Canada, Japan, the U. K. and other countries participate. Starting at 7 in the morning, the paddlers are challenged by rapids, low areas that require them to physically carry their canoes for short distances as well as winds as they near the Caribbean Sea.
• History Of The Cross Country Cycling Race:
  The idea for the race originated with Belizean Monrad Metzgen, who on a trip to one of the villages on the Northern Highway in 1928 was struck by the number of bicycles Belizeans used to attend weekly cricket games in the Belize Rural area. He pitched an idea for a sort of cycling "expedition" to San Ignacio, testing the cyclists' ability to cope with a then-badly built Western Road (now George Price Highway), to the Governor, who immediately pledged support and offered a cup as a prize to the winner of the race. Other prominent Belizeans Monrad Metzgen spoke to, including medical officer Lieutenant Colonel James Cran, Matron L.M. Roberts of the Public Hospital, Royal Bank of Canada local manager Charles Beattie and Frans Dragten all donated money and trophies to the cause.
• Western Ballaz Rolls to Remain As The Only Undefeated Team:
  On Saturday night, the Cayo Western Ballaz (3 - 0) took the league's only undefeated record way down south to take on the winless Toledo Diplomats (0 - 3) at the Julian Cho Technical High School. Despite some delays, the game commenced at 10:15 p.m., with the visiting team claiming the spoils, securing a 96 - 80 victory in Toledo. Cayo Western Ballaz was led by Richard Troyer, who set the NEBL scoring record with 43 points on 71% shooting from the field, and 5 - 5 from the charity stripe, while also setting an NEBL record with 8 three pointers in the game. He finished the game with a double-double, adding 13 boards to his stat line, while dishing out 2 assists and tallying 2 steals.
• Guatemala Ex-President Alfonso Portillo Freed From US Jail:
  Former Guatemalan President Alfonso Portillo has been released from a U.S. prison after serving a nearly six-year sentence for taking $2.5 million in bribes from Taiwan and laundering funds through U.S. banks, a prison official confirmed Wednesday. Portillo was sentenced to five years, 10 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Robert Patterson in New York last May. At the time, he had already served more than four years in jail since his arrest in 2010.
• Grace Primary Anglican School Students explore Belize's Barrier Reef System on a visit to Hol Chan Marine Reserve:
  It is only when we look through the eyes of the next generation that we understand the importance of protecting what we have today. The Belize Coalition to Save our Natural Heritage transported 35 students of Grace Primary Anglican School from the concrete classroom to the underwater classroom of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System on Wednesday, February 25. A glass bottom boat opened up the underwater world of the Belize Barrier Reef to the awe-filled students, whom for many the trip was the first to Belize's offshore.
• Communal Livestock Holding Facility Handed Over To Cattle Producers In The Belize District:
  A Communal Livestock Holding Facility in Willows Bank was officially handed over to cattle producers in the Belize River Valley area at a ceremony held on Wednesday, February 18, 2015. Through the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA), the European Union in collaboration with the Government of Belize and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) financed a three-year project "Enhancing Belize's Resilience to Adapt to the Effects of Climate Change".
• Principal-Hate At Arms Of Love School:
  At the Arms of Love Primary School in San Ignacio Town - the charge is of maladministration not sexual misconduct. The parents say the Principal is deliberately difficult and they want her removed. A month ago, parents kept their kids home in protest. Since then, the ministry has gotten involved and the District Education officer. Luis Carballo, thePrincipal Education Officer of the Cayo District said that the allegations against her was the way that she treated the parents and teachers. And, parents are concern because of the way the principal has been treating their children, that she shouts at them, sometimes pull them or argues with them or in a way that they feel it's not necessary.
• Bipolar Disorder:
  Bipolar disorder, also known as bipolar affective disorder (and originally called manicdepressive illness), is a mental disorder characterized by periods of elevated mood and periods of depression. The elevated mood is significant and is known as mania or hypomania depending on the severity or whether there is psychosis. During mania an individual feels or acts abnormally happy, energetic, or irritable. They often make poorly thought out decisions with little regard to the consequences. The need for sleep is usually reduced. During periods of depression there may be crying, poor eye contact with others, and a negative outlook on life. The risk of suicide among those with the disorder is high at greater than 6% over 20 years, while self harm occurs in 30-40%. Other mental health issues such as anxiety disorder and drug misuse are commonly associated.
• Central American Karate Championships:
  The Belize Karate Federation, the national organization of Sport Karate Clubs, today began welcoming member nations of Central America to the Twentieth "CARMELA DIAZ" Central American Karate Championships CCONDEKA which kicks off tomorrow in San Ignacio, Cayo District. Arriving this morning from Venezuela is global Karate Advocate and Karateca Mrs. Carmela Diaz who, along with Central America's top female Karateca Selenia Campos, will conduct a workshop tomorrow morning on the evolving role and opportunities for Women in Sport. Carmela Diaz has made her mark over the decades for lobbying to get Karate as an Olympic sport which it will be as of the 2020 Olympics.
• Lin-Wood Rotary Interact Club of New Hampshire, U.S.A partners with the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo to renovate the Pedro Guerra Mena Park:
  The Lin-Wood Rotary Interact Club from New Hampshire, U.S.A. visited Belize this week to conduct their International Service Project at the Pedro Guerra Mena Park in Benque Viejo del Carmen Town, and Mary Open Doors in San Ignacio Town. On Sunday, February 22, 2015, the Lin-Wood Rotary Interact Club partnered with the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo to renovate the Pedro Guerra Mena Park in the New Area of Benque Viejo del Carmen. The Interact Club provided the materials needed to restore the park while the Rotaractors of the Rotaract Club of Benque Viejo volunteered their time to assist with the park's restoration. The children's playground was restored to its original state, the installations in the park were painted, and the grass was mowed. In the coming weeks, new swings (seats) will be installed so that the children can once more enjoy the swings.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 15th, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• DRUG TRAFFICKER BUSTED:
  The Police from the Crimes Investigation Branch and the Special Branch are cracking down on drug peddlers in the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena. Their latest bust was on Tuesday, 10 March, based on the information they received of a cream Geo Prism with taxi licenses plate BVO-00289. Police acted swiftly and intercepted the vehicle between mile 68 and 69, right in front of the Inglewood Camping Grounds. There were four occupants including, a male driver and three women passengers. All occupants were ordered out of the vehicle with their belongings. Police then conducted a search on each individual however nothing incriminating was found on the occupants except for one of the female occupants, whom police found as Merikita Castillo, 28 year old domestic of Belize City. Castillo had a grey crochet bag in her hand. Upon searching the bag police found a dark blue Everest school bag what contained some clothes, cosmetics, personal documents, a clack plastic bag and a transparent Miltex plastic bag. Further search of the black plastic bag, led to the discovery of green leafy substance suspected to be marijuana.
• Teenager Drowns In The Mopan River:
  A third-form student of Eden High School in Benque Viejo Del Carmen drowned in the Mopan River on Sunday while swimming with friends. Family members believe that seventeen year old Michael Quintanilla caught a cramp while attempting to cross the river. They got the call at around four Sunday evening, after his friends had tried unsuccessfully to save him. Police was call immediately after, and upon arrival found Quintanilla's lifeless body on the bank of the Mopan River. The body was transferred to the San Ignacio Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Father of Deceased, Alfredo Quintanilla, said that he was told by the father of one of the kids that they had lunch a couple of minutes before taking a dip in the in the Mopan river and upon swimming across, Michael, unfortunately did not make it.
• The Belize Natural Energy Charitable Trust Signs An Agreement With The Belize Enterprise For Sustainable Technology To Serve As Implementing Agent Of The Trust's Student Loan Programme:
  The BELIZE Natural Energy Charitable Trust (BNECT) today signed an Agreement with the Belize Enterprise for Sustainable Technology (BEST) to expand the Trust's Student Loan Program to the underserved areas of the Cayo and Belize Districts. The initial investment of $350,000 will be made available to BEST in two tranches of $175,000 each. The overall objective of the partnership is to create a revolving fund to provide loans for Belizean students attending or planning to attend Belizean educational institutions of secondary, tertiary and vocational designation, accredited by the Ministry of Education. The BELIZE Natural Energy Charitable Trust shares the same agenda of our partners and envisions this collaboration as a joint effort to empower and uplift Belizeans so that they can become the conscious architects of their own future.
• La Ruta Maya River Challenge 2015:
  The 2015 La Ruta Maya took center stage in the Jewel over the Baron Bliss weekend. At the start of the 4th and final stage of this canoe race, were 50 vessels afloat on the calm of the Belize or Old River at Henderson Bank in Burrell Boom Village, the starting signal brings an outburst of unrestrained energy as the competition comes to life. At Lord's Bank, OCEANA Wavemakers display their intention to make it 2 stage wins in a row with the overall victory mathematically; almost inaccessibly grabbing the 2nd premie en route to Belize City. Behind them, the 2 real challengers for the 2015 title B.T.L. Cobb's Arm and NICH continue to bitter struggle for supremacy as NICH boasts only a 2 second lead over the Corozal based team that has displayed a tremendous improvement in a year's time.
• Cayo Western Ballaz Survived A Scare Versus Belize City No Limit:
  On Friday night, Cayo Western Ballaz(5-0) hosted the Belize City No Limit(1-4) team at the Sacred Heart College Auditorium in San Ignacio Town, as they tried to keep their record unblemished. However, the visiting team jumped out to an early 8 - 0 start, taking a 5 point lead into the half. With 3 minutes to go, Cayo Western Ballaz was nursing a 6 point lead, but they were able to pull out the 64 - 57 victory at home, to remain undefeated. The home team was led by Richard Troyer who scored 27 points, and had 4 rebounds, 4 steals and 3 assists. Giovanni Lennan had 9 points with 12 rebounds, while Akeem Watters finished with 8 points and 7 rebounds. Kurt "Chengo" Burgess scored 7 point and finished with the game high 19 rebounds.
• Inaguration Of The Rotary Park:
  The renovated Rotary Park, complete with new playground equipment, was officially inaugurated Today. Members of the San Ignacio Rotary Club, with assistance from the Rotaract Clubs of San Ignacio and Benque Viejo del Carmen, spent the long holiday weekend working alongside members of the Rotary Club of Jasper, Canada to complete the installation of the new equipment. The installation included see-saw, swing-set, a circular slide and monkey-bars. The sound of excited children at play filled the park on a bright, sunny afternoon, following the official speeches and ribbon-cutting. Guest speaker at the inauguration was Mayor-designate of San Ignacio/ Santa Elena, Earl Trapp.
• ELECTIONS AND BOUNDARIES DEPARTMENT MUNICIPAL ELECTION OFFICIAL RESULTS
• Herpes Zoster:
  Herpes zoster (or simply zoster), commonly known as shingles and also known as zona, is a viral disease characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters in a limited area on one side of the body (left or right), often in a stripe. The initial infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes the acute, short-lived illness chickenpox which generally occurs in children and young adults. Once an episode of chickenpox has resolved, the virus is not eliminated from the body and can go on to cause herpes zoster often many years after the initial infection. Herpes zoster is not the same disease as herpes simplex, despite the name similarity; both the varicella zoster virus and herpes simplex virus belong to the same viral subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. After the initial episode of chickenpox resolves, the varicella zoster virus remains latent in the nerve cell bodies and, less frequently, the non-neuronal satellite cells of the dorsal root, cranial nerve or autonomic ganglia, without causing any symptoms.
• Tourist Killed By Whale Crashing Into Boat Off Mexico:
  A grey whale (Eschrichtius robustus) dives into the Ojo de Liebre Lagoon in Mexico on 3 March, 2015. A record number of grey whales has been spotted off the Mexican coast this season A Canadian woman died after a grey whale crashed into the tourist boat she was on off Mexico's Pacific coast. The woman had been snorkelling off the north-western resort of Cabo San Lucas. The exact circumstances of the incident are unclear. Firefighters say the whale jumped up and landed on the boat, throwing the victim into the water. But the tour company said the woman was injured when the captain had to make a sudden turn to avoid the surfacing whale, which hit one side of the boat. She later died in hospital. Two other people were also injured. A grey whale (Eschrichtius robustus) emerges from the waters of the Ojo de Liebre Lagoon on 3 March, 2015. Grey whales breed and nurse their calves in the lagoons and bays.
• Mexican Mayoral Candidate Murdered:
  The decapitated body of a politician has been found in one of Mexico's most violent states, Guerrero, where she had been standing for mayor in June's elections. Aide Nava's body was discovered on a road near the state capital, Chilpancingo. She had been kidnapped on Tuesday. A note near her body threatened the same treatment for other politicians. Violence in Guerrero has cast doubt over polls scheduled there for June. The note near Aide Nava's body said if politicians did not "fall into line" they would be executed. It was signed by Los Rojos, one of the main criminal groups in the state. Last year Aide Nava's son was kidnapped and has never been found. Her husband, a former mayor, was also murdered.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The March 22, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Harrison Drops The Bomb:
  Just 75 days ago Richard Harrison was a national candidate for the People's United Party and glowing endorsements from his party leader Francis Fonseca. But in quick time after his historic defeat he has faded into obscurity; Harrison disappeared from public view before the votes were finished counting in the Cayo North bi-election. But he has re-appeared quite suddenly with a searing political commentary called "A Post Election View From Under The Bus." Harrison starts by saying that the party leadership, quote "threw him under the bus" when it endorsed his replacement Michel Chebat without his knowledge. Harrison takes this as disrespect after all he gave in the failed bi-election effort. He then asks, provokingly, "if they cannot uphold their own party's constitution while in opposition, how can they be expected to uphold the national constitution while in government?"
• Launching Of "A Walk Through El Cayo":
  The Institute for Social and Cultural Research today launched a publication titled "A Walk Through El Cayo." The 48-page paperback book gives a concise history of many of the public spaces around San Ignacio and Santa Elena or what was known in the early days of the settlement as El Cayo. Contributors to the publication included Diana Askari, Francisco Galvez, Jr., Luis Gentle, Hilda Mencias, Hernan Ochaeta and Hector Silva, Sr. Field researchers were Giovanni Pinelo and Selene Solis and the editorial team was led by Nigel Encalada, the Director of the Institute for Social and Cultural Research. Among the areas highlighted in the book are the Hawksworth Bridge, the old San Ignacio Hospital, Sacred Heart Church as well as early business enterprises in Santa Elena town. Copies of the book were given to primary schools that were present at the official launching ceremony which was held at the Cayo Welcome Center. The San Ignacio Library and media representatives who attended also received copies.
• "A Post Election View From Under The Bus.":
  Municipal elections in Belize are held every three years and were scheduled for March 4, 2015. General elections to elect members of the House of Representatives are held every five years and must be held by March 2017, but can be called by the Prime Minister at any time before then, with only 30 days notice. Suddenly, in mid-November 2014, People's United Party (PUP) elected area representative for Cayo North (Hon. Joseph Mahmud) resigned as standard bearer for his party, and I (among others) was called by senior party officials inviting me to participate in intra-party convention to elect a new standard bearer that would represent the party in the next general elections. After some consultation with people in the area, I decided to accept this invitation, and started to do some ground work in the division.
• Official Swearing In Of The New Mayor And Councillors Of San Ignacio and Santa Elena:
  The new San Ignacio/Santa Elena town council officially took office on Monday, March 16, 2015. Mayor Earl Trapp and his councillors were sworn in during a short ceremony held on Sunday afternoon at the Cayo Welcome Center by Senior Justice of the Peace Elulogio Cano. Prior to the start of the swearing in ceremony, Mayor Trapp and the councilors went around greeting the people who had gathered to witness the event and to enjoy the entertainment provided by the Super Furia Band.
• Land Fraud Cases:
  The Ministry of Natural Resources and Agriculture (MNRA), through the Lands and Surveys Department, has launched an investigation into fraud cases involving land titles that were recently discovered. The preliminary investigation suggests that there is a systematic effort being orchestrated by persons of both foreign and local nationalities to obtain property by fraudulent means. The perpetrators use fraudulent international passport and other forms of identification to usurp the identity of real land owners to obtain property and subsequently proceed to fraudulently transfer land titles to prospective buyers by forging signatures of MNRA officials in an effort to make the documents appear legitimate as though they were issued from the Lands and Surveys Department. It appears that the con artists are targeting properties owned by absentee landowners who reside abroad.
• National Elite Basketball League - All Star Night:
  The NEBL will be hosting its first ever All Star Night on Friday, April 10 at the Sacred Heart College Auditorium in San Ignacio Town. The All Star Game will tip off at 8 p.m., with North versus South. Entrance fee is $10 general admission and $15 for VIP seating. Children under 10 years of age pay $5. Teams from the North will be Orange Walk Running Rebels, Belize Hurricanes, Belize City No Limit and San Pedro Tiger Sharks and teams that make up the South are Belmopan Red Taigaz, Cayo Western Ballaz, Dangriga Warriors and Toledo Diplomats. The starting five for both teams will be selected by the fans, via Facebook likes. Fans are encouraged to visit the NEBL Facebook page, click on the picture of their player and "Like" their favorite player. The players with the most FB "Likes" will be the starting 5 for both teams. Only 2 players from one team can be on the starting 5.
• Bishop Martin Project:
  Twelve twelfth grade students from Toronto District Christian High School (TDC)(Ontario, Canada) landed in Belize City last week Wednesday, March 11. They stayed in San Ignacio making a daily trip to Bishop Martin Roman Catholic School where they began construction on a new cafeteria. TDChristian sends down students every year during their 'March Break' off school to volunteer their time here in Belize. This year's team consisted of twelve students, Monika, Sewa, Allison V., Chloe, Joey, Katie, Gavin, Melissa, Mark, Arie, Allison E., and Amber, as well as three chaperones, Ms. Marg, Mrs. Evelyn, and Mr. Rod. During their time in Belize the students learned new skills, interacted with elementary students, and toured the country.
• The Forgotten History of Gay Marriage:
  Editor's note: This post is a Care2 favorite. It was originally published on March 14, 2012. Since then, there have been many changes and advancements in LGBT rights around the world. The information in this post still holds true, though, and is an important reminder. Enjoy! Republicans and other opponents of gay marriage often speak of marriage as being a 2,000 year old tradition (or even older). Quite apart from the fact that the definition of marriage has changed from when it was a business transaction, usually between men, there is ample evidence that within just Christian tradition, it has changed from the point where same-sex relationships were not just tolerated but celebrated. In the famous St. Catherine's monastery on Mount Sinai, there is an icon which shows two robed Christian saints getting married. Their 'pronubus' (official witness, or "best man") is none other than Jesus Christ. The happy couple are 4th Century Christian martyrs, Saint Serge and Saint Bacchus - both men. Severus of Antioch in the sixth century explained that "we should not separate in speech [Serge and Bacchus] who were joined in life." More bluntly, in the definitive 10th century Greek account of their lives, Saint Serge is described as the "sweet companion and lover (erastai)" of St. Bacchus.
• GOB Improving School Environment For Students & Teachers In Belmopan:
  The Government of Belize recognizing the critical importance of ensuring a more pleasant school environment for the delivery of quality education to students provided school furniture and computers to the Belmopan Methodist High School in the nation's capital. The donation includes 100 student Armchairs, 15 chairs, three teachers desks, one cupboard, three book shelves and four computer tables valued at $14,525; coupled with 10 computers and accessories valued at $31,299.41 totaling $45,824.41. Funding was made through the Commonwealth Debt Initiative (CDI). Students of Belmopan Methodist High School will now have more efficient access to Information Technology due to the donation of the equipment.
• Kidney Stone:
  A kidney stone, also known as a renal calculus or nephrolith, is a calculus formed in the kidneys from minerals in the urine. Kidney stones typically leave the body by passage in the urine stream, and many stones are formed and passed without causing symptoms. If stones grow to sufficient size (usually at least 3 millimeters (0.12 in)) they can cause blockage of the ureter. This leads to pain, most commonly beginning in the flank or lower back and often radiating to the groin or genitals. This pain is often known as renal colic and typically comes in waves lasting 20 to 60 minutes. Other associated symptoms include: nausea, vomiting, fever, blood in the urine, pus in the urine, and painful urination.
• Mexico Supreme Court Frees Man After 23 Years In Jail:
  The Mexican Supreme Court has ordered the release of Alfonso Martin del Campo Dodd, a Mexican-American who was jailed in 1992 for the murder of his sister and brother-in-law. The court ruled that Mr Martin del Campo's confession had been extracted under torture and that there was no other evidence against him. Mr Martin del Campo said police had placed a plastic bag over his head to make him confess to the double murder. He is expected to be freed shortly. In a four-to-one ruling the judges said Mr Martin del Campo, who holds both US and Mexican citizenship, should be freed "in light of the proof that torture was used to obtain his confession in the two crimes, without there being any incriminatory evidence".
• Ambassador Nestor Mendez Elected New Assistant Secretary General Of The Organization Of American States:
  The Office of the Prime Minister of Belize is pleased to announce that H.E. Nestor Mendez, Ambassador of Belize to the United States, Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), and High Commissioner to Canada, was today elected for a five-year term as the new Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States. The post of Assistant Secretary General is the second highest office in the OAS, it is a highly competitive post to obtain, and holds senior responsibilities in that hemispheric organization. The Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs embarked on two years of active diplomacy and campaigning to achieve the support of the majority of countries in the Americas for this post. Ambassador Mendez contested the election against Ambassador Bayney Karran, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the OAS, and secured the election with 24 votes against 10 out of a total of thirty four Member States. This is the first time that a Belizean has been elected to such a senior office in the OAS.
• Breastfeeding 'Linked To Higher IQ':
  A long-term study has pointed to a link between breastfeeding and intelligence. The research in Brazil traced nearly 3,500 babies, from all walks of life, and found those who had been breastfed for longer went on to score higher on IQ tests as adults. Experts say the results, while not conclusive, appear to back current advice that babies should be exclusively breastfed for six months. But they say mothers should still have a choice about whether or not to do it. Regarding the findings - published in The Lancet Global Health - they stress there are many different factors other than breastfeeding that could have an impact on intelligence, although the researchers did try to rule out the main confounders, such as mother's education, family income and birth weight.
• Prince Charles Meets Barack Obama At The White House:
  The Prince of Wales has met US President Barack Obama at the White House during his visit to the country. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall met Mr Obama and vice-president Joe Biden at the Oval Office. The president told the prince that the Royal Family was fondly regarded by the American people. The prince also visited an adult education school and took part in 10-pin bowling during this part of the four-day "goodwill" tour. Mr Obama and the prince last met four years ago when he flew to the US a few days after the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Mr Obama told the prince it was "fair to say that the American people are quite fond of the Royal Family". The prince replied: "That's awfully nice to know."
• The World Pediatric Project:
  In collaboration with -The Ministry of Health, Friends of Pediatrics, and the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Is offering treatment for patients from birth to 21 years suffering from : NEPHROLOGY * Nephratic syndrome * Protein in urine * High blood pressure * Any other kidney problems SPINA BIFIDA * Spinal cord protrudes from the back as a lump or opening draining sac at birth UROLOGICAL CONDITIONS * Hernia / hydrocele - swelling in the groin or scrotum * Phimosis - penis foreskin balloons because of tightness of skin * Labia Adhesion - fused vaginal lips. Vaginal opening appears to be closed.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 5, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Bernard Clings To Life:
  A San Ignacio resident is tonight clinging to life at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital after he was hit by a vehicle that did not stop. Fifty year old Bernard McLaren, known as the bread and bun man, is a self-employed father of three children. McLaren had just visited his kids and was heading home when he was hit by a white vehicle. The driver did not stop to render assistance. The incident happened a little before 9:00 Saturday night when San Ignacio police was called to the low lying bridge of an accident that occurred. Upon arrival police noticed a man lying face down on the side of the street. They recognize the male person to be Bernard McLaren, 50 Belizean Labourer of Branch mouth area. McLaren was unconscious and was bleeding from his head, apparently suffering from a cut wound to the right side of his forehead.
• Link Up Bar Burglar:
  On Wednesday a Santa Elena business woman reported that her establishment was burglarized. Owner of Link Up Bar, Ruby Sabala, reported to the San Ignacio police that her said establishment was burglarized on Tuesday 24 March. She said that about 12:00 pm on that same day she received a call from the owner of the building that the back door of the establishment was opened. Knowing that she had properly secured her establishment, she quickly when to take a look. Upon arrival she noted that the lock was broken off the front door and they exited through the back door.
• Launch Of My Body Is Precious Animations:
  The office of the Special Envoy for Women and Children has partnered with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to produce animated videos from the My Body is Precious "good touch, bad touch" book in the Garifuna, Maya and English languages. This initiative was born out of the belief that all children have the right to get information in a way that they understand and the realization that there are communities, primarily in southern Belize where Garifuna and Maya are the most commonly spoken languages. These are also languages that are rarely used in written form. Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow is proud to be able to extend her advocacy efforts for child abuse prevention to these communities where the children and their families may not speak or fully understand English.
• Mmmm... Hot Cross Buns Recipe:
  love. Belizeans love their hot cross buns as much as the next person, and the favorite way to eat them is slathered with happy cow cheese, dripping in butter or simply dunked in a nice mug of coffee to start the Easter weekend right. Here is a recipe to test out your baking skills!! Hot Cross Bun Recipe Ingredients: Dry * 3lbs flour * 2 packs of yeast * Spice seeds * Raisins * � lb shortening * 1 cup brown sugar Wet * Lukewarm coconut milk * Vanilla (about 1 tablespoon) * Essence of your choice Preparation Method: Add flour, yeast, spice seeds, raisins into a mixing bowl Add in the � lb of shortening, followed by 1 cup of brown sugar. Mix everything together until incorporated.
• Blazing Battle Of The Two Western Teams:
  Friday night, the clash of two of the power houses in the league, complemented by the in-district rivalry took center stage at the Sacred Heart College Auditorium in San Ignacio Town on Friday 20 March, 2015, as the undefeated Cayo Western Ballaz (7-0) played host to the Belmopan Red Taigaz (5-2). The stage was set from the introduction of the players, as the visiting Belmopan fans came in full force, matching the noise, intensity and fan fare of the home team. The game's intensity peaked from tip off, and the biggest lead in the entire game was 6 points, as both teams demonstrated a high level of concentration, great defense and limited mistakes. With 19 seconds remaining in the game, Belmopan Red Taigaz had a 60 - 59 lead, when Richard Troyer missed a three point attempt, and Jarell Velasquez secured the rebound and was fouled.
• Celebrating Easter In Belize:
  With more than 80 per cent of Belizeans professing Christianity, Easter is the single longest public and Bank Holiday - from Good Friday through Easter Monday. This is a 4 day holiday when residents flee to neighboring Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Chetumal in Mexico, or take to the local beaches, river or nearest bathing pool. Schools are closed for a full week starting from the Monday before the Easter weekend. Government, public utilities and banks shut down at midday on Holy Thursday, for four and a half days making this one of the slowest periods for commerce. The weather is usually very hot, but at times a straggling cold front moves in over the Yucatan Peninsula bringing in clouds and pleasant temperatures. The sale of alcohol is prohibited throughout the country on Good Friday, a day when solemn religious activities are held including all-day church services and processions re-enacting of the Passion of Christ. Regretfully, foreign tourism interests have managed to erode Easter traditions in certain areas such as Ambergris Caye by pressuring local authorities to look the other way to allow the sale of alcohol on Good Friday.
• Where is the BC:
  A rather old fashioned lady was planning a couple of weeks vacation in The Mountain Pine Ridge. She also was quite delicate and elegant with her language. She wrote a letter to a particular campground and asked for reservations. She wanted to make sure the campground was fully equipped but didn't know quite how to ask about the "toilet" facilities. She just couldn't bring herself to write the word "toilet" in her letter. After much deliberation, she finally came up with the old fashioned term "Bathroom Commode," but when she wrote that down, she still thought she was being too forward. So she started all over again; rewrote the entire letter and referred to the "Bathroom Commode" simply as the "B.C.". Does the campground have its own "B.C.?" is what she actually wrote.
• Sexually Transmitted Infections:
  Sexually transmitted infections (STI), also referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and venereal diseases (VD), are infections that are commonly spread by sex, especially vaginal intercourse, anal sex and oral sex. Most STIs initially do not cause symptoms. This results in a greater risk of passing the disease on to others. Symptoms and signs of disease may include: vaginal discharge, penile discharge, ulcers on or around the genitals, and pelvic pain. STIs acquired before or during birth may result in poor outcomes for the baby. Some STIs may cause problems with the ability to get pregnant. More than 30 different bacteria, viruses, and parasites can cause STIs. Bacterial STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis among others. Viral STIs include genital herpes, HIV/AIDS, and genital warts among others. Parasitic STIs include trichomoniasis among others. While usually spread by sex, some STIs can also be spread by non-sexual contact with contaminated blood and tissues, breastfeeding, or during childbirth. STI diagnostic tests are easily available in the developed world, but this is often not the case in the developing world.
• GOB To Conduct In-Depth Review Of Local Rice Industry:
  The Government of Belize wishes to inform the public that it is fully aware of the request by a local importer to import rice from Guyana, and his claim that imported rice through that channel could be made available to the public at a price lower than the current market price. The Government is also aware that there is severe overproduction in Guyana and they have domestic pressure to market that product at any cost. The government, through the Ministries of Natural Resources and Agriculture, and the Ministry of Trade, Investment, Private Sector Development and Consumer Protection, is conducting an in-depth review of the rice industry with an aim to ensure the best action for Belize as it relates to the production and supply of rice to the Belizean public. The first stakeholder meeting including producers was held last week before this became a media story.
• Decriminalization Of Marijuana community and from National:
  Earlier this month a committee authorized to discuss the removal of criminal penalties for possession of small amounts of cannabis released its report in which it recommends such removal for ten grams or less possessed. The report is now before Cabinet and today Prime Minister Dean Barrow confirmed that the Government has given its support in principle. However, there are reservations, particularly from the church community and from National Security Minister John Saldivar with regard to the establishment of "decriminalization," as it is officially termed. The Prime Minister said Government wished to have final consultation with the churches as to their position on decriminalization, though it is prepared to move forward without them if needed. Thousands of Belizeans are expected to benefit from this move, which will include formal rehabilitation and education as well as expunging of criminal records.
• World Cup Qualifiers Belize Vs. Cayman:
  Earlier this month the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) presented the 30-member men's National "A" Selection Team, dubbed, the Belize Jaguars who have been in training for last night's game against the Cayman Islands in their first match of the World Cup 2018 Qualifiers. During that presentation, which included the unveiling of their logo, much confidence was expressed in Belize securing a victory despite the absence of the team's star striker, Deon McCaulay. The forecast for that victory was made based on several factors including the fact that Belize ranks internationally at 41, outdoing the Grand Cayman National Team � but that victory didn't come to pass last night as the game ended in a nil-nil score last night at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan.
• Buenos Aires Streets Empty As Transport Strike:
  The streets of the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires, remained largely empty on Tuesday morning as a number of transport workers' unions went on a 24-hour strike. Many national and international flights were cancelled and train and underground stations looked deserted. Trade unionists, who complain about high inflation and high taxes, also blocked some roads. The government has defended its tax system as fair. Blockades Protesters blocking the Pueyrredon Bridge, one of the main access routes into the city, said they would keep the blockade going until at least midday. Strike leaders said buses would not run on Tuesday as drivers were heavily unionised
• International Garifuna Summit:
  An International Garifuna Summit organized by the Garifuna Heritage Foundation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines was held on 8th-15th March, 2015 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The theme of the Summit was "The Garifuna, a Nation Displaced-Cultural Rights, Economic Survival and Reparations." It consisted of several events including Workshops, Conference, Tours, Cultural Extravaganza, a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Garifuna Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer Monument on St. Vincent and Grenadines Heroes Day, March 14th. A pilgrimage to Balliceaux was done on Sunday March 15. Balliceaux is an inhospitable off-shore island where the Garinagu were sent in July 1796 before being exiled from their homeland. More than fifty percent of those sent to Balliceaux died before the exile.
• Criminal On The Run - Caught:
  While on the run, police has finally caught Jose "Pelon" Quintanilla. The incident happened on Thursday, 19 March, 2015, when the San Ignacio police was conducting their mobile patrol; they noticed Jose "Pelon" Quintanilla, on 2nd Street walking with a pink school bag in his hand coming out of an opened lot. As soon as Quintanilla saw the mobile patrol he turned back and ran. Police immediately set chase after him as he ran to an unfinished building where police saw him threw the bag and jumped out the back side of the building. Police then retrieved the pink school bag and continued the chase however, Quintanilla make good his escape through the bushes.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The April 19, 2015 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Trio Charged For Murder:
  A man was found beaten at the Welcome Center in San Igancio. Police received reports that on Saturday, 4 April, 2015, at about 1:27am, of a male person who got beaten. Upon arrival police saw a male person dressed in short blue jeans pants and beige T-Shirt, unconscious with an injury to the right side of the head and was bleeding from the mouth. He was transported to the San Ignacio Community Hospital, where the doctor admitted him in a stable condition. No means of identification was found in his possession and so far no missing person report has been filed. He was later transferred to KHMH where he died. A picture of the John Doe was posted in social media and with the assistance of Coast Guard Personnel; the body was identified as AURELIO MONTERO 23yrs Belizean Coast Guard Officer of Bullet Tree Village.
• Cruz Brutally Chopped:
  A San Ignacio man was brutally chopped near his home in San Ignacio Town. Police responded to a machete fight near Marianna's bar at the corner of Blue Bird and 23rd street. Upon arrival no one was in the area so they visited the San Ignacio Medical Hospital. Police notice a Hispanic male person identified as Steven Cruz, 20 year old Belizean labourer, with multiple chop wounds to the back of the head, right wrist and lower foot. Initial investigation revealed that Steven Cruz was socializing with his friends on a veranda at the home of Alejandro Galvez. Whilst they were there a minor came to spoke to Galvez, however, while the minor departed the yard he was upset because Galvez didn't want to lend him two shirts. Upon departing the minor ottered the words "All ah unu wa get it!"
• Remembering Peter Tonti:
  It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing on April 16, 2015, of Mr. Peter Tonti. Mr. Tonti was the CEO of Cahal Pech Village Resort and former 2nd Vice President of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA). Mr. Tonti arrived in Belize in the late 1970's as a Peace Corps Volunteer. After completing his term as volunteer, Mr. Tonti remained in Belize to work in Belmopan for the Reconstruction and Development Corporation, which built and operated the new capital of Belize before it had a municipal government. He later joined the Belmopan Convention Hotel in 1983. From those early days, Peter saw the opportunity Belize held as a thriving tourism destination. He quickly became one of the pioneers at the forefront of the development of the Belize tourism industry. Peter's accomplishments and contributions for over the past 30 years are countless and immense. He rendered his service to the BTIA wholeheartedly from the inception of the Association as standing member, advisor and later as a Board Member.
• Belize Not Ready For An Oil Spill!:
  "Belize does not presently have the capacity to address a large oil spill!" Commander Paul Lattanzi of the Regional Activity Centre/ Regional Marine Pollution Emergency, Information and Training Centre RAC/REMPEITC succinctly stated the situation of Belize's lack of preparedness to address oil spills. The comment emanated from a discussion at the Oil Spill Preparedness Sensitization Workshop being held today by the Department of the Environment. It is clear that Belize is not ready for an oil spill from existing threats such as tankers, therefore extremely far off from being prepared for an oil spill from oil exploration in sensitive areas including in watersheds, protected areas and the offshore. While the DOE was quick to note that Belize Natural Energy (BNE) has an oil spill contingency plan and that the planning process to complete the National Oil Spill Contingency Planis ongoing, the fact remains that Belize does not have a comprehensive overarching National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to allow for adequate response to an oil spill. In addition, the current incomplete draft of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan has been in its draft form for the last 8 years and the current exercise to revise and complete the Plan appears bogged down due to lack of financial resources and political will.
• Woman Knocked Down:
  Police was called out to an accident that happen only a stone's throw away from the San Ignacio Police Station. Upon arrival on Buena Visa Street in San Ignacio, the noticed a female lying on the left hand side of the street with cut wounds on her left foot and on both knees. Police investigation revealed that He Yue Li, 39 year old business man of Hudson Street, was driving his white 2005 Ford Ranger pickup on Buena Vista Street heading towards Benque Viejo. As he was reaching the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) office, he started experiencing mechanical problems and noticed that his steering wheel was locked. Li tried to take control of the vehicle and noticed a female and a male person walking down the hill and tried to avoid hitting them but it was too late.
• Man Charged for Grievous Harm:
  A Santa Elena man is in the hot seat as he is faced with a grievous harm charge. On Thursday, 2 April, 2015, Darryl August, 23 year old Belizean Tour Guide reported to police that around 1:15 am, after socializing with family and friends, dropped off his brother at home on the George Price Highway in Santa Elena near the Hawksworth Bridge. August exited the vehicle to urine and notice a white pickup truck pulled up and two male person exited. August recognize one as Leal and the other as Francis. Francis walked towards him and at about 15 feet away he threw a bottle of rum at him which caught August on his right hand and left side of his chest area.
• Budna Stabbed:
  The San Ignacio Police are investigating a stabbing incident that happend a popular night club in the area. Police was called out on Saturday, 4 April, 2015, of a stabbing incident at the Blue Angels Night Club. However, after arriving at the vicinity the victim was already transported to the San Ignacio Medical Hospital. Upon arrival they saw a male person who was identified as Melvin Budna, 25 year Belizean laborer of a 3rd street address. Police saw Budna suffering from a stab wound to the left side of his chest where the 6 inch bread knife was still launched inside his body.
• NEBL Hosts First Ever All Star Game:
  The NEBL resumed after the Easter Break with some key games that had significant playoff implications. Fans are reminded that all games have a live webcast, where the play-by- play, along with box scores, are available for all games. Fans can follow every game live on the internet, as scores are in real time, at nebl.sportingpulse.net San Pedro Tiger Sharks handed Cayo Western Ballaz their first loss of the season The once undefeated Cayo Western Ballaz (7-1) were handed their first loss by the defending champs, San Pedro Tiger Sharks (6-2) on Saturday night at San Pedro High School in San Pedro Town. The home team was able to secure a 79 - 75 huge victory, reclaiming their repertoire of being a fourth quarter team who displays a great degree of confidence and clutch performance down the stretch. Trailing by 10 in the fourth quarter, San Pedro Tiger Sharks were able to mount a huge come back, sending the game to over-time, where they were able to secure the victory.
• Ministry Of Health To Officially Inaugurate The National Vaccine Storage Facility:
  The Ministry of Health in partnership with the European Union and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) will be conducting a short ceremony on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at 3:00 pm to officially inaugurate the National Vaccine Storage Facility at the Western Regional Hospital Compound. The Ministry of Health is proud to boast that over the last ten years, through our partnerships, we have continued to maintain a minimum of 95% vaccine coverage. While the priority groups for immunization are pregnant women and children under five years of age, all age groups are covered by the expanded program on immunization. Vaccination services are provided countrywide at both public and private health facilities.
• Tonnes Of Dead Fish Removed From Rio Olympic Rowing Venue:
  Brazilian workers have removed more than 33 tonnes of dead fish from the 2016 Olympic rowing and canoeing venue in Rio de Janeiro. A team of more than 60 people have been working since last week to clear the remains from Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Scientists said the fish were starved of oxygen because of pollution. Water quality has also been a major concern for organisers in Guanabara Bay, where Olympic sailing events are due to be held. The overwhelming smell at the lagoon has led to complaints from residents and members of local rowing clubs.
• Two Men Shot - One Dead:
  Jermaine Welcome and Allen Garbutt were shot early Saturday morning. At about 1:30 a.m. the men were in Roaring Creek Village. While socializing amongst a group, a gunman opened fire and bullets caught both men. Welcome was killed and Garbutt is in critical condition. The official report stated that on Saturday, 4 April, 2015 at about 1:30 a.m., police responded to a shooting incident in Roaring Creek Village and visited the Western Regional Hospital where they saw 24-year-old Allan Garbutt of Roaring Creek Village being attended to suffering from apparent gunshot wounds to the right hip and shoulder. The other victim was 24-year-old Jermaine Welcome also of Roaring Creek Village, who received a gunshot to his lower back and had passed away while undergoing surgery.
• Brain Tumor cancers. In children younger than 15,:
  A brain tumor or intracranial neoplasm occurs when abnormal cells form within the brain. There are two main types of tumors: malignant or cancerous tumors and benign tumors. Cancerous tumors can be divided into primary tumors that started within the brain and those that spread from somewhere else known as brain metastasis tumors. This article deals mainly with tumors that start within the brain. All types of brain tumors may produce symptoms that vary depending on the part of the brain involved. These may include headaches, seizures, problem with vision, vomiting, and mental changes. The headache is classically worst in the morning and goes away with vomiting. More specific problems may include difficulty in walking, speaking and with sensation. As the disease progresses unconsciousness may occur.
• HIV: New Approach Against Virus 'Holds Promise':
  The first human trial of a new type of HIV therapy suggests it could be a promising weapon in the fight against the virus. Reports in the journal Nature show infusions of so-called broadly neutralising antibodies could suppress the amount of HIV in a patient's blood. The approach uses clones of immune proteins taken from a rare individual who has natural control of the disease. Scientists hope with further work this could bolster current treatments. 'Profound effects' People naturally mount a defence against the virus by producing an army of protein based weapons - antibodies. But in most cases these are not powerful enough to defeat it. The international research team harvested copies of unusually potent ones, capable of neutralising many different strains of HIV.
• STAR Humor
• Your Weekly Horoscope and Lucky Numbers
• Letters to the Editor
• Public Notices

The February 28, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• SANTA ELENA MAN EXPOSED AS CON ARTIST IN BOTH ORANGE WALK AND SAN PEDRO:
  Orange Walk police are reporting that they have caught an alleged conman who was scamming people out of their money in Sugar City, Orange Walk. He is Santa Elena resident Windell Neal. An office administrator reported to police that on Sunday, January 17, she was at the People's Stadium when she received a text message from a cell phone number she didn't recognize. The person impersonated her boss and asked her to pay for some seafood. Believing that this person was indeed her boss, this employee texted the conman and told him to show up at the Stadium where she was. Shortly after that, a dark-skinned man showed up, and collected $330 from her, by pretending to be the man that her boss had supposedly sent to pick up the money. When she verified with her actual boss, she realized that the text message conman had deceived her.
• GSU Officers Shoot Paslow Falls Family:
  An entire family from the Paslow Falls area of Bullet Tree Road is traumatized after a run in with officers of the Gang Suppression Unit on Wednesday, February 24. Ana Rivera, 24, of Paslow Falls area, reported to police that just after 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday she was traveling towards Belize City with her husband, Roberto Chan, 28, and their children. The family was in their white Toyota 4 Runner vehicle travelling on the Santa Rosa Road and just as they were approaching an area known as La Linea, she heard two gunshots. Rivera immediately turned to check on her children. fortunately they were unharmed. However, when she looked at her husband, she saw blood running down from his right shoulder.
• Editorial: Back In Love Again!:
  Being away from the hustle and bustle of Belize City for almost 15 years somehow changed my perspective on a city where I was born and raised, a city I once loved. On the occasions I managed to drop in, it would be for a couple hours at a time, during which I went about my shopping being very guarded and somewhat scared. Purse clutched tight against my chest, chain tucked into my clothing, heart racing constantly, always expecting to be jacked, and mauled, harassed, anything bad period. Daily news reports would always give the impression that the city is one of the worst places to grow up, to walk the streets, to hang out, to simply exist, especially the South Side! For years I allowed those reports to mar my judgement. I didn't want to be in the city longer than necessary, worse of all I stayed completely clear of South Side Belize City. I didn't want my children attending any functions, I worried about family members left behind, I simply feared Belize City.
• Gas Price Goes Down Despite Increase in Duty:
  Motorist who visited the gas station on Thursday, February 25, were happy to find out that gas prices had gone down for Premium and Regular Gasoline. On Thursday Premium gasoline went to eight dollars and ninety-nine cents, down thirty-one cents from the previous price of nine dollars and thirty. Regular gasoline now stands at seven dollars and ninety-eight cents, down thirty-two cents from eight dollars and thirty cents. Therefore, it was a joyful day at the pumps across the country. However, that joy was accompanied with a sense of disappointment when they learnt that the price could have been even lower. On Tuesday, February 23, the Ministry of Finance apprised the Cabinet of the continued, significant decrease in domestic crude oil production and the slump in tax revenues and royalties. The Ministry made recommendations for immediate compensatory adjustments to the duties levied upon imported fuel products.
• Consumer Prices Increase Marginally In January:
  The prices of goods and services purchased by Belizean households increased marginally, by an average of 0.4 percent, during the month of January 2016. The Statistical Institute of Belize's latest statistics on consumer prices show that the All Items Consumer Price Index stood at 103.2, up from 102.7 in January 2015. Prices within the "Transport" category dropped by 3.3 percent despite an increase in the sub-category of Fuel. The average price of premium gasoline was up by 15.4 percent when compared to same month last year, while that of regular was 7.7 percent higher. Only diesel saw a decrease in its average price per gallon, declining by 9 percent during the period. The decline in diesel prices, combined with a 39 percent decrease in international airfares, served to offset the increases observed in the other types of fuel during the month.
• Police Remove Drugs And Firearm Off Santa Elena Streets:
  In recent weeks, Cayo police have increased searches of hot spots in the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena to take illicit materials off the streets. At about 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 21, police conducted a search in an open lot in the Hot Point area, St. Lucia Street in Santa Elena Town. The search was based on information received. This led to the discovery of a black .38 Special Revolver Taurus brand pistol with brown wooden pistol grip and serial number VG961440. The pistol contained four live rounds of .38 ammunition and one .38 expended shell. It was concealed between some old zinc. No one was in the immediate vicinity; therefore, the firearm and ammunition were labeled and deposited as found property. However, several persons have been detained pending investigations.
• NEBL Reaches Mid-Way Point Of Regular Season:
  Friday saw the return of Kurt "Chengo" Burgess to his old home town, San Ignacio, as Cayo Western Ballaz hosted Belmopan Bandits at the Sacred Heart College Auditorium. Belmopan Bandits jumped out to an early 21 - 12 lead at the end of the first quarter, which they extended to 21 points in the second quarter, to take a 15 point lead into the locker room, 40 -25. However, in the third quarter the home team made a huge run to cut that deficit to only 3 points, going into the fourth quarter. Cayo Western Ballaz defense and free throw shooting sealed the 67 - 60 victory, in a huge game for both teams.
• Youths Election For Cayo District:
  A group of young people from the Cayo District will be electing a group of their peers to represent their voice on national issues on Monday, February 29. The District Youth Councils will be elected across the country on Monday. For Cayo, the polling station is at the Department of Youth Services office at #28 Peter August Street in Santa Elena Town. This is upstairs of the Post Office. Young men and women in the 18 to 26 age group are vying for posts of President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer of their respective District Councils. Voters are selected by youth groups registered with the Department of Youth Services. Each registered youth group was allowed to select two members as delegates for the district elections. The names had to be submitted by February 12 to allow candidates to have a two week window to make their pitch directly to voters. As mentioned earlier, most of the campaigning is being done on social media platforms. However, the Department of Youth Services is organizing youth rallies countrywide to give candidates an opportunity to address delegates in person.
• Belizeans Stuck in Chetumal Due To Riot:
  Belizeans travel to Chetumal daily for business, shopping and leisure activities. Rarely do they encounter difficulties because the municipality is now primarily a "tourism town" and Belizeans spend millions of dollars there each year. Wednesday, February 24, 2016 was one of those rare days when Belizeans experienced difficulties in Chetumal, inderectly. As Belizeans were making their way home, they were blocked by protestors staging a demonstration against law enforcement authorities. Unconfirmed reports are that residents of the Subteniente Lopez community have been complaining for weeks about unreasonable checkpoints set up in the area that result in extremely long lines for motorists trying to get home after a long days work. Reports are that it sometimes take up to an hour and a half to get pass a one mile stretch due to traffic backed up by an "unnecessary and unwanted" checkpoint. Residents started a petition that was signed by thousands of supporters. That petition was presented to local authorities but no response was given. By Wednesday, residents had taken all they could and an adhoc protest was launched.
• Johnson & Johnson Hit With $72m Damages In Talc Cancer Case:
  A jury in the US state of Missouri has ordered Johnson & Johnson (J&J) to pay $72m (£51m) to the family of a woman who claimed her death was linked to use of the company's Baby Powder talc. Jackie Fox from Birmingham, Alabama died of ovarian cancer last year, aged 62, having used the talc for decades. Her family argued that the firm knew of talc risks and failed to warn users. J&J denied the claim and is said to be considering an appeal. Researchers say links with ovarian cancer are unproven. A company spokeswoman said: "We have no higher responsibility than the health and safety of consumers, and we are disappointed with the outcome of the trial."
• 12-Year-Old Sexually Assaulted By Uncle:
  Police have arrested and charged 48-year-old Feliciano Merejildo Sutherland of Church Street, Benque Viejo Del Carmen Town for the crime of Sexual Assault upon a 12-year-old female minor. The student accompanied by her mother reported that sometime around 8:30 p.m. on Friday, February 19, she was at home with her sisters, father and uncle in the living room area watching television. Her mother was at work, her older sister went to the store and her father later went out. She was left at home with her uncle and 3-year-old sister. At this time, her uncle threatened her and then forcibly performed oral sex on her against her will. Police investigation led to the arrest of Sutherland.
• Launch of Having Fun with Rights: A Children's Activity Book:
  The Special Envoy for Women and Children with support from UNICEF Belize launched the publication, "Having Fun with Rights: A Children's Rights Activity Book", at the Bliss Center for Performing Arts this morning. The book targets children aged 8-11 years old and is designed to make the teaching of children's rights more interactive and enjoyable. Activities based on situations that may occur within homes, at school or in social settings are used to make the material relatable while encouraging the children to think, rather than simply memorizing information.
• Ministry Warns Heavy Transport Vehicles of Delays in Benque:
  The Ministry of Works and Transport issued a release to inform the general public that an axle weight survey for heavy construction and heavy transport vehicles is taking place in Benque Viejo del Carmen Town in front of the Cancha Marshalleck. The main purpose of this survey is to gather preliminary information regarding the range of heavy axle loads borne by Belize's main highways that will be used to assist engineers in improving future highway design, improve the performance of routine and periodic maintenance and to expand its database of vehicular axle weights.
• Nigeria Team Rewarded After 30-Year Wait:
  The Nigeria squad that won the first Fifa Under-16 World championship have been rewarded after a 30-year wait. New Nigeria president Muhammadu Buhari has made good on a promise to reward the players after the 1985 tournament when he was the military head of state. Nduka Ugbade, captain of the team who beat West Germany 2-0 in the final in Beijing, told BBC Sport: "I have finally received my money. "I am extremely delighted that our president has fulfilled his promise." Buhari had promised the players a house, stock in the central bank and a scholarship and other incentives after their success but soon after he was ousted by another military regime and the country's government never fulfilled his pledges.
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The March 6, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Is The Town Council Property Really For Sale? - Mayor Earl Trapp Updates Residents:
  building for San Ignacio and Santa Elena sits is up for sale, says Mayor Earl Trapp. The Council has already received at least one phone call from an interested buyer. The Mayor, Councilors and senior officials of the Council have scheduled a public meeting for Thursday, March 17, to inform residents of the plan and get feedback on the issue. Mayor Trapp says the building has been condemned as far back as 1992 and three or four engineers have come to the same conclusion. He says the building is "not safe for human use" and it has demoralized the staff of the council. "When it rains outside, it rains inside," Mayor leaking roof and cracked up walls. "When a truck passes outside the entire building shakes. If you leave a ball on the floor it rolls to the other side of the room." The building is leaning on one side by a slope of almost 11 inches. The only reason they have stayed in the building so long is because previous councils have not been able to secure the funds to do otherwise. The Mayor says he cannot subject the staff of the council to this kind of working conditions any longer. "I personally have came upon members of the staff meeting in a corner, organizing not to return to work because of the terrible condition the building is in."
• Esperanza Village Resident Loses His Licensed Firearm:
  Another dangerous weapon may be in the hands of dangerous elements after a resident of Esperanza Village lost his firearm on Tuesday March 1. According to police reports, 43-year-old Phillip Elvis Orellano, businessman of Esperanza Village, Cayo reported that on at about 4 p.m. on Tuesday his wife rented a red 2002 Mitsubishi Montero vehicle to a customer. Shortly after the customer left with the vehicle, Orellano realized that he had forgotten his license .380 Walther Pistol, serial number S130557 with 7 live rounds of ammunition. He claims that he left the firearm inside the glove compartment of the Mitsubishi Montero.
• Road Near Camolte Village Under Inspection:
  Residents of Camalote Village and motorists travelling that part of the George Price Highway need to exercise extreme caution over the next week. The Ministry of Works and Transport issued a release to inform the general public that an axle weight survey for heavy construction and heavy transport vehicles is taking place in Camalote Village, Cayo District in front of the Community Center. The main purpose of this survey is to gather preliminary information regarding the range of heavy axle loads borne by Belize's main highways that will be used to assist engineers in improving future highway design, improve the performance of routine and periodic maintenance and to expand its database of vehicular axle weights.
• Last Undefeated Team Falls In NEBL Tournament:
  On Friday night, Smart Belize Hurricanes hosted Belmopan Bandits at the Belize Elementary School gym, in a rematch of a thrilling season opener. The home team jumped out to an expected lead, with an early 20 - 11 advantage at the end of the first quarter. At the half, Smart Belize Hurricanes was able to extend that lead to 12 points, going into the fourth quarter with a 63 - 58 lead. Belmopan Bandits was able to cut the lead to 2 points midway through the fourth quarter, and with great end-ofgame execution, secured a huge win for their team, claiming the 85 - 83 victory. American import, Nick Brown, was the top scorer for Belmopan Bandits (3-4) with 24 points to go with 6 boards and 3 steals.
• Having Trouble With Your New Business?:
  Thursday, March 3, BELTRAIDE is hosting a workshop in collaboration with InfoDev, a World Bank Group, "to chart a way to foster an innovative entrepreneurship ecosystem in Belize". During the workshop, managers, entrepreneurs, students, government officials, donors and investors will take part in Business Incubation Management (BIM) Training. A business incubator is a company that helps new and startup companies to develop by providing services such as management training, market information, office space, etc. Many great business ideas fail shortly after take off because they did not get the chance to have enough air under the wings. Business experts around the world will tell you that the most vulnerable time for a business is the infancy stage - the period of time in which the business is susceptible to numerous terminal conditions. Some businesses crash in the infancy stage because of unexpected and unbudgeted expenses. Others fail because they could not stay above water long enough for the business to start seeing a profit. There are several factors that can cause a business to fail in the early stages and the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE) is hoping to provide protection for young entrepreneurs by introducing a business incubator.
• Arson In Billy White Village:
  One family from the Cayo District has loss their home and all their belongings after a fire gutted a structure in the early hours of Sunday, February 28. San Ignacio Police responded to a house on fire at 1:38 a.m. on Sunday in Billy White Village. There they saw a yellow wooden structure measuring about 24x24 feet with zinc roof and standing about three feet off the ground completely destroyed by fire. The wooden structure was the property of 39-year-old Dimas Duarte of Billy White Village who reported that at around 12:50 a.m. he went to San Ignacio Police station to make a report about an individual who was causing him problems and while at the station he was informed by the police that his shop was on fire.
• Billy White Village BDF Couple Free of Illegal Weapon Charges:
  BDF corporals Gerald and Lloida August, husband and wife of Billy White Village, were convicted of firearm and ammunition offences in February of last year. The couple were being accused of being in possession of guns and ammunitions that were stolen from the BDF Price Barracks compound on December 23, 2011. They were sentenced to seven years imprisonment each by Magistrate Nardia Morgan on February 23, 2015. Through their attorney, Leeroy Banner of Chebat and Co. Law Firm, the couple appealed the conviction and sentence. A group of Cayo residents had protested the case in May 2015 because the couple's four children were left with an overwhelmed grandmother while they were in prison. Fortunately for all involved, Gerald and Lloida are now free after Supreme Court Justice Antoinette Moore upheld the couples appeal of illegal weapons convictions. Banner argued before Justice Moore that the accused did not get a fear trial since there was no attorney present for them during the trial.
• PM Barrow Appointed As Member Of The Privy Council By Queen Elizabeth II:
  Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has announced that Prime Minister of Belize Hon. Dean Barrow has been appointed as a Member of the Privy Council. With this, the Prime Minister can now legitimately be referred to as the Right Honourable Dean Barrow. The announcement was published on the website of the Office of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on March 1, 2016.
• Belize Elects First National Youth Council� Almost:
  A group of young talented community servants have been elected by their peers to serve on the country's first National Youth Council. Six District Youth Councils were elected on Monday, February 29, and the group of representatives are waiting for two more members to complete the body that will represent the voice of seventy percent of the population. The final two members will be Stafin Duncan or Micah Goodin and Phillip Wade or Herman Sanchez. Duncan and Goodin finished tied in the race for President of the Belize District Youth Council. Wade and Sanchez finished tied in the race for treasurer of the Corozal District Youth Council. The Department of Youth Services has set March 14 as the date for runoff elections in both districts. Other races for President, Vice -President, Secretary, Treasurer and Public Relations Officer have been decided.
• Real Madrid's James Rodriguez Fined After 124mph Police Chase:
  Colombian footballer James Rodriguez, 24, has been fined �10,400 ($11,300; £8,090) by the Spanish authorities for refusing to stop for police, Spanish media report. The Real Madrid star was caught speeding on New Year's Day on his way to training, and refused to stop. Police said he was driving at 200km/h (124mph), double the speed limit. The fine is for refusing to stop when police told him to pull over. The fine for speeding has yet to be announced.
• Mexican Drug Lord El Chapo Guzman 'Requests US Extradition':
  The jailed Mexican drug lord, Joaquin Guzman, has asked to be extradited to the United States rapidly so he can receive better treatment in prison. His lawyer said Guzman had asked him to stop fighting his extradition because guards at his prison would not let him sleep. "El Chapo" Guzman was recaptured in January, six months after he escaped from prison. Prison authorities say he is woken and checked every four hours. Two US courts have requested Guzman's extradition on charges of drug trafficking in California, and murder in Texas.
• Guatemalan Military Intercepts Belizean Sarstoon Excursion:
  The Belize Territorial Volunteers planned an excursion on the Sarstoon River for Saturday, February 27, to mark the one year anniversary of team members detention by Guatemalan authorities. This excursion was a disappointment from the beginning, however. The campaign that once had dozens of supporters from the North and South of Belize has dwindled to less than a handful. There were more news reporters at Wil Maheia's excursion than there were supporters. Still, the lack of support did not deter the Leader of the Volunteers. Maheia set off for his citizens patrol of the Sarstoon and met up with officers of the Guatemalan armed forces at the mouth of the Sarstoon. The naval vessel, according to members of the press, acted as blockades to prevent the Belizean skiffs from entering into the Sarstoon. It is a situation that could have escalated out of control. However, the captains of the Belizean boats informed Maheia that they do not wish to cause trouble and a decision was made to turn around.
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The March 27, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• SAN IGNACIO TAXI MAN AND WIFE ROBBED ON BULLET TREE ROAD:
  Sixty-one-year-old Albino Itzab, a taxi driver of San Ignacio Town, and his wife are lucky to be alive after they were lured to the Santa Rosa area by three passengers and robbed of his vehicle and their possessions. Caoba Restaurant in San Ignacio Town when two males and a female requested service Calla Creek on Wednesday afternoon, March 16. Itzab was not the slight bit suspicious of the three Hispanic decent individuals. On the way to Calla Creek, about 500 yards from a farm in the Santa Rosa area, one of the males took out a knife and placed it at Itzab's neck. The would be robber made it clear that he was dead serious and ordered Itzab to hand over everything he had.
• Man Knocked Down And Killed In Spanish Lookout:
  Police have issued a notice of intended prosecution upon Spanish Lookout resident, Felix Sandoval, 59, who knocked down and killed 89-year-old Guatemalan National, Alejandro Padillo in Spanish Lookout last week Wednesday, March 16. Police received information of a road traffic accident in Spanish Lookout at about 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Initial investigation revealed that Mr. Felix Sandoval of Duck Run address had just finished repairing his truck tire at the Esso Gas Station compound on the Center Road in Spanish Lookout and while reversing out he felt an impact at the rear end of the vehicle.
• New Kitchen At Octavia Waight Center:
  Octavia Waight Center for the aged now has a fully equipped new kitching thanks to a partnership with the Gobie Foundation. The center is managed by Help Age Belize and is currently home to 32 residents. The center was founded in San Ignacio Town about 25 years ago with a visit by Raleigh International. The kitchen is fully furnished with stainless steel refrigerators, two large stoves, mixers and other appliances. Donations were made by businesses in the San Ignacio/Santa Elena area such as Benny's and Builders Hardware.
• Benque Viejo Archaeological Reserve Opened:
  Benque Viejo del Carmen now has a new attraction at its center, with the opening of the Benque Viejo Archaeological Reserve on Thursday of last week. Once a suburb of the nearby flourishing Xunantunich City State, which existed around 700 A.D, the just opened Maya site may have once been the home of an elite leader or warrior; that gathered significant tribute last week with the presence of Ambassadors from Mexico, Guatemala, Canada, Britain and Brazil. Master of ceremony for the opening was Dr. Allan Moore, Associate Director of the Institute of Archaeology, who welcomed all the guests and attendees. At the start of the ceremony, the National Anthem was played by the Benque Marimba Academy from the Benque House of Culture. During the ceremonies, Mayor of Benque Viejo, Hilberto Ramcharan accredited the efforts of Subrata Basu, a US Peace Corps volunteer, who had worked tirelessly for a period of three years to preserve the Maya site.
• National Budget Debate Set For Tuesday And Wednesday:
  The General Revenue Appropriation Bill (the national budget) will be debatede on Tuesday, March 22, and Wednesday, March 23. Prime Minister Barrow entitled his budget speech, "Stability in a Time of Change". The budget is more conservative than those of recent years - not because Government cannot afford bold ventures but because there is too much uncertainty ahead. Questions are left to be answered such as how will the sugar industry fair in the changing market; how will the citrus and aquaculture industry rebound from disease; how will the financial sector be affected in the long term by derisking exercises; what does the future hold for the PetroCaribe Initiative and what will be the payment ordered by the court for acquisition of Belize Telemedia Limited, among others.
• Ashton Edwards Drops 45 Down South, Including 10 From Downtown:
  On Friday night, Belize City No Limit hosted Cayo Western Ballaz at Bird's Isle in Belize City. The home team jumped out to an early 20 - 16 first quarter lead, which they extended to 36 - 27 by intermission. In the second half, the lead was extended to 26 points, which Belize City No Limit never relinquished, easily winning the game 85 - 61. Belize City No Limit (4-5) was led by Michael Babbles who had the game high of 24 points, to go with 6 assists, 4 steals and 3 rebounds. Jamal Augustine had the best game of his career, with 19 points and 6 rebounds, while Gregory "Chippy" Rudon scored 18 points to go with 4 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals. Keith "Superman" Acosta finished the game with 18 points and 9 rebounds.
• Massive National Convention In Dangriga:
  The United Democratic Party's army marched into Dangriga Town on Sunday, March 20, and flexed its muscle with a turnout of over 5,000 supporters at an uncontested convention. The coalition that took the UDP to victory in 2008 was made up of veteran UDP warriors, patriotic Belizeans who were disgusted at the PUP's stifling of national pride and an unprecedented youth base that wished to rescue a future that the PUP was giving away. The convention on Sunday proved that the same coalition is well oiled and growing even stronger. They assembled under the theme: "One Team, One Dream� United We Work, United We Win". After years oin control of the country's local and foreign affairs, there is no longer any question about the strength and staying power of the UDP coalition. Co-hosts of the event, Area Representative for Dangriga, Hope Creek and Sarawee, Hon. Frank Papa Mena, and Mayor of Dangriga Town, His Worship Francis Humphries welcomed UDP relatives from across the nation. Mena said the massive showing reaffirms what just a few months ago we confirmed when we got the results of the General Elections.
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The April 10, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• POLICE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR TWO SUSPECTS IN THE SELENA MURDER:
  residents of Selena Village, Cayo for their role in the murder of 63- year-old Guatemalan laborer, Edgar Alfonso Perdomo Aldana, of Selena Village. The persons of interest are Guillermo Duarte, 27, and Marlon Padilla, 22. Sometime around 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, Aldana was drinking in the Iguana Creek Government School compound, about 50 feet from his residence, with his friend Ruben Manzon. According to reports, this was when Duarte and Padilla approached them. Words were exchanged between the men and a fight started. During the fight, either Duarte or Padilla pulled out a machete and began to chop his rivals. Manzon received multiple chop wounds to the upper part of his body but was able to escape and ran for help. Unfortunately, Aldana was not as lucky. He could not escape the fury of his attackers. He was chopped multiple times to the head and body and bled out at the scene of the fight.
• Sacred Heart Primary School Student Hit By Truck - In Critical Condition:
  Reports reaching us indicate that during the school lunch break, a Sacred Heart Primary student was hit by a truck owned by Bahadur & Sons Trucking. The incident occured in front of the popular Trin's Deli located on Eve Street in San Ignacio. Eye witnesses report that everything transpired so quickly, resulting in the little boy being hit and laying on the street with blood coming from his mouth and behind his head. The little boy was subsequently rushed to the San Ignacio polyclinic where he is listed in a critical condition. (Subsequent unconfirmed reports suggest the little boy succumed to his injuries)
• New Cayo Top Cop - Happy With Community Involvement:
  Superintendent Richard Rosado, Officer Commanding San Ignacio Formation, has been the top cop in Cayo for two months now and he is settling in well. Rosado emphasizes the importance of community policing and sees the department as simply an extension of the community it serves. In order to keep crime under control in the area, it will take the residents of San Ignacio, Santa Elena, and the 20 surrounding villages to effectively police their space. Offciers of the formation are enforcement agents that act on behalf of the people they serve. "It has been a wonderful experience so far because we have received the full support of the community," Rosado told the STAR. He is in the process of setting up a "Cayo Formation Advisory Board" to better police the jurisdiction.
• Drugs Found In Red Creek And Santa Elena Town:
  Cayo Police conducted a series of searches over the last week. At 2:39 p.m. on Monday, April 4, police conducted a search in an empty lot on the George Price Highway in the Red Creek area. This led to the discovery of a plastic bag which contained 198 grams of Cannabis. Noone was in the immediate area; theerfore it was labeled and deposited as "Found Property". Later that day, conducted a search in an empty lot on Carmen Street, Santa Elena Town which led to the discovery of a black plastic bag containing 710 grams of Cannabis. This bag was labeled and deposited as "Found Property".
• Belize Produces $27 Million More In Goods And Services In 2015:
  The fourth quarter preliminary estimates by the Statistical Institute of Belize show that the level of economic activity during the months of October to December 2015 increased by 0.6 percent when compared to the same quarter in 2014. The total value of goods and services produced in Belize was $661.1 million, up $3.7 million from $657.4 million in 2014. For the first nine months of the year, the level of production in the country was 1.2 percent higher than it was in 2014, as the relatively strong growth experienced during the first quarter largely offset declines in the subsequent two quarters. Therefore, the economy grew by 1.0 percent in the year 2015, just over $27 million in goods and services.
• Cost Of Living Increases But Falls Slightly In Cayo:
  April 7, 2016: Cost of living has increased slightly in Belize, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize, but San Ignacio/ Santa Elena saw price fell by a fraction of a percentage point. SIB released its latest statistics on the Consumer Price Index on Wednesday, March 30, and it reveals that cost of living increased by 0.3 percent in February of 2016. According to S.I.B., the All-Items Consumer Price Index stood at 102.7 in February of 2016, up from 102.5 in the same month last year. The price of beef, pigtail, eggs, cabbage and premium gasoline increased by 20.1 percent, 8 percent, 17.2 percent, 37.6 percent and 27.1 percent; respectively, in the month of February 2016 as compared to 2015.
• Why Mexicans Are Troubled By Donald Trump:
  that drives Donald Trump crazy apart from yellow number 5 hair colour," jokes Chumel Torres, a Mexican comedian that has taken the internet by storm. His show, El Pulso de la Republica (The Pulse of the Republic), is Mexico's answer to the US late-night talk show The Daily Show. While there are few Mexicans who find US Republican candidate Donald Trump funny, laughing in the face of adversity is the strategy Torres has decided to adopt and he seems to be doing something right. The comedian, who originally trained as an engineer, has 1.5 million subscribers to his Spanish-language YouTube channel and a growing number of fans for his newer English-language version too. The appetite for Trump gags is high but it is starting to wear thin, Torres says.
• NEBL Playoffs Fast Approaching As Teams Fight For Playoff Positions:
  Upcoming Games There are three weeks remaining in the NEBL regular season, as each game becomes even more critical, as teams are making their final playoff push. Below is the schedule for the upcoming games. Friday night at 9 p.m. - Cayo Western Ballaz at Belmopan Bandits Friday night at 9 p.m. - San Pedro Tiger Sharks at Belize City No Limit Saturday night at 8 p.m. - Smart Belize Hurricanes at Independence Thunderbolts Saturday night at 9 p.m. - San Pedro Tiger Sharks at Orange Walk Running Rebels Sunday at 1 p.m. - Independence Thunderbolts at Orange Walk Running Rebels.
• United States to Donate $13 Million for Belize Law Enforcement:
  U. S. Ambassador to Belize H.E. Carlos Moreno and the Right Honorable Prime Minister Dean Barrow signed the 16th Amendment to the Letter of Agreement (LOA) implementing the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) program through the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) on April 7, 2016. The U.S. Government has provided over $35 million in programs and grants to Belize through the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) since 2008. Today's agreement provides USD $6,450,000 in funding to be used for the following projects: Improved Border Inspection, Vetted Units, Capacity Enhancement, Justice Sector Reform, and Community Policing.
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The May 1, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE

The April 17, 2016 issue of The STAR (Cayo) is online HERE