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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.
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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.
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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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