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The February 2nd, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• "One Eye Water!", General and Municipal Elections Same Day, Fonseca Calls for It, Barrow Calls It!
• From the Desk of the Chairman: The Ballots will do the Talking
• Careful What You Ask For Is the Opposition Ready for Elections?
• Statement by Prime Minister Dean Barrow on the Announcement of General Elections
• Grand UB Graduation: 405 Newly Equipped Agents of Development
• Faith Lift: Purging the Pathway to the Conscience, By Zelda Hill
• "Success Is Not a Sometimes Thing It is an All The Time Thing", Main Address Delivered at 14th Commencement Excercise of the University of Belize, by Mr. Nestor Vasquez Chairman of Belize Telemedia
• The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Guinea Grass, Orange Walk, Last Sunday
• Electricity Rates Down! Went in Effect February 1, 2012
• Water Rates Going Down! PUC Orders 7.2 Percent Reduction
• Perseverance Pays off: Harmonyville Land Papers Processed
• Haunted by their Past! Francis Fonseca and PUP want us to Forget
• Always on the Wrong Side: Lisa Shoman Represents UNIBAM
• Training for a Living in St Ann's Twenty Residents Graduate from SIF-Funded Program

The February 9th, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Anger or Fear? Why PUP Candidates are Jumping Ship
• IDB President in Town
• From the Desk of the Chairman: The Invisible Hand of the 'lord'
• Kudos to Plus TV: Congrats to Mayor Lopez, Belmopan Mayoral Debate
• Noise in the Market Don't Worry About it - Check Your Change!
• Faith Lift: Godliness: The Appearance vs the Real Thing
• "Albert Will Be UDP Again!" Herman Longsworth's Brilliant Interview
• Referendum is What You Want? Why Not Have One on UNIBAM?
• The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Orange Walk Central Last Sunday February 5
• Saldivar to Fonseca: How Can the People Judge You? By Your Past - Not Your Promises!
• Health Clinic for Senior Citizens Inaugurated in the Capital City
• Passport System Down
• The Republic of China (Taiwan) Partners with University of Belize
• Update on the Belize Municipal Development Project for the City of Belmopan
• Superbond Strikes Again! Another 33 Million Gone!
• Lisa Shoman Again: On The Wrong Side of Political Pornography
• Continuity of Government
• Ruperto for President: New FFB Elections Coming in March

The February 16th, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Nomination Day: United and Strong in Belmopan!
• Superbond Strikes Again!, Another 33 Million Gone!
• Objection to Shakron Nomination
• From the Desk of the Chairman: The Harder They Come The Harder They Fall !
• Paved Placencia Road Inaugurated
• Tourism Turns the Corner: BIG Increase in Overnight Visitors
• Ignorant or Dishonest?: Noisemakers Badmouth Belize Economy
• Faith Lift: Committed Marriages & Families - Critical Components for a Healthy Society
• AGM in the Free Zone: Address by Executive Chairman, David Akerman
• On Both Sides of the Issue: Shoman's Dual Position on Dual Citizenship
• PHOTOS: The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Toledo Last Sunday February 12, 2012
• Safety and Comfort: SIF Project Refurbishes School Buildings in Cristo ReyFund
• Safety and Comfort: School and Bathroom Block Inaugurated in August Pine Ridge
• Taiwan Assisting Belize in Aquaculture
• PHOTOS: Nomination Day In Belmopan City Wednesday February 15, 2012

The February 23rd, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Victory in the Air! UDP Launches Manifesto - Throws Gigantic Rally
• Patriotism versus Politics
• Elections and Boundaries Department - Public Service Announcement
• Great Things Achieved - Greater Things Coming: PM Dean Barrow's Speech at Orange Walk East Rally
• PHOTOS: The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Orange Walk East Sunday February 19
• World Day of Social Justice: Message by Secretary General of United Nations, Mr. Ban-Ki-Moon
• Manifesto Launch - Public Rally
• Faith Lift: Roll Out The Justice, Please!

The March 5th, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• BIG John! Saldivar's Splendid Debate Performance
• Empowering Grass Roots People
• From the Desk of the Chairman: Noise-Makers versus Vote-Bringers
• CARICOM YOUTH Ambassador Campaign
• Empowering Grassroots People: 200 Leases in San Juan/Cowpen
• A Breath of Fresh Air: WAVE Radio & TV Airs Insightful Election Show
• Faith Lift: The Merits of Prayer to Church and State
• PHOTOS: The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Dangriga, Sunday, February 26, 2012
• PHOTOS: The Prime Minister's Tour Continued in Ladyville, Sunday, February 26, 2012
• Montero Delivers Again! Ground Breaking for Santa Elena Library
• Gabriel Martinez Delivers: Libertad Village Health Center Inaugurated
• Setting the Record Straight: Looking Beyond the Elections
• PUBLIC NOTICE: REVISION OF RADIO FREQUENCY SPECTRUM PLAN
• Completing the WORKS In Stann Creek West
• La Ruta Maya 2012: Marking the End of the Mayan Calendar

The March 15th, 2012 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• New Cabinet Named, Putting the Nation above the Party
• Bertie Chimilio Gone! Ruperto Vicente Takes Charge of FFB
• PHOTOS: Swearing In of the New Cabinet
• Hello Golfers: This Saturday is our 3rd monthly tournament
• GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS 2012
• TOWN COUNCIL & CITY COUNCIL ELECTIONS 2012 RESULTS
• La Ruta Maya 2012: Belize Bank Wins - Another Exciting Finish
• Belmopan City Council Kids Cup (First Round of the Playoff Games)
• PHOTOS: La Ruta Maya 2012The Award Ceremony for all Categories
• From the Desk of the Chairman: Results, Questions and Answers
• Faith Lift: Let Belize's Landmarks Stand!

The March 17th, 2013 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Economy on the Rise! Navigating the Ship of State through Turbulent Waters:
  One year into the second term of his tenure as Prime Minister, the Honourable Dean Barrow last week read his Government's 2013-2014 Budget Proposal. While it was presented without much pomp and circumstance, the 5.3 % GDP rate of growth for the closing fiscal year reported in this Budget is absolutely phenomenal, particularly when considered within the context of the region and the World. Our 5.3% GDP Growth rate is measurably much higher than the overall Global growth of 3.2% for 2012, which represented further slippage from the overall Global Growth rate of 3.9% recorded the previous year, 2011. As, the Prime Minister noted in his Budget Speech, Japan slipped into recession, the Euro area's turmoil intensified, China's economic pace decelerated, and in the 'great' United States of America, the measly 2.3% growth rate they recorded in 2012 had even exceeded expectations. It is amid this broad-based sluggishness in advanced economies that our Belize Economy registered a phenomenal growth rate of 5.3%.
• National Security Challenged But Determined! Reviewing the Progress in 2012-2013:
  over command of the Ministry of National Security one year ago, it was with the full knowledge that this is the most challenging Ministry in these times. He, nevertheless, embraced it with the same enthusiasm he has always approached every mission. One year later, in the face of mounting challenges, we review the progress made, with the complete awareness that the mission is anything but complete. In fact, it has only just begun! 1. Successive annual increases in budgetary allocations for the Ministry of National Security to step up operations, purchase equipment and vehicles, last fiscal year and the new fiscal year. 2. Minister of National Security, Honourable John Saldivar completes his countrywide tour of all Police formations formations in the Country finishing in Stann Creek District where he visited the Intermediate Southern Formation (ISF) led from Independence, the Placencia Sub-Formation which handles the Peninsula Area, and the Dangriga Formation which is the Headquarters for the entire District.
• One Month in Charge Commander Discusses State of BDF:
  Local Press: What kind of challenges has the BDF been having since your taking over command? Brigadier General Jones: Today has marked exactly a month, because I took over the 1st, today is the 28th, the shortest month in the year. And what I have been doing so far is making checks on exactly what resources the BDF has, making checks on exactly what are the resources that we need, and looking at the structure of what the BDF currently has, and then revising, starting to revise towards creating the structure that we need. Because, with the current threats that we have, we don't believe that we are structured the best way. So we are going to revise our structure and then look at either increasing the size of the force, or structuring it differently so that we can actually meet the threats that we are now facing. Local Press: But, in relation to budgetary confinement, sometimes the BDF officers don't have the necessary equipment they need because of budgetary cuts. How do you address that? Brigadier General Jones: At the moment, with the budget exercise we went through, it seems that they (the Government) are NOT going to be really unkind to us this year. I think we might get even a little increase; there is always a need for more equipment. As you know the government and the country is not in the financial situation that we would like. We need to make the best of the budget that we get, and make the best of the resources that we have.
• From the Desk of the Chairman: Whither Goeth Thou? by Delroy Cuthkelvin:
  Amid the g o o d news of the Belize Economy making its way steadily across stormy regional and international seas, our communities remain in relative social turmoil, not too clear, it seems, about where we want to go. The Prime Minister and his Government were elected to reverse economic crisis and erosion of confidence in the management of our Nation's affairs, a macro situation that was affecting every aspect of our lives and threatening our very existence as an independent state. The 2013-2014 Natonal Budget, recording a growth rate of 5.3 percent in the closing fiscal year, projecting continued growth in the year ahead, and keeping all national and human development programs intact, without adding any new taxes, is proof positive that the Prime Minister and his Government are delivering well on that mandate. That our Economy and the overall management of our Nation's affairs are back on track and heading in the right direction, is a given. Where the waters remain murky is on the social front. In so many ways, over so many years, we seemed have lost our way as a people, having come loose of our moorings. No amount of Government policies and programs can completely fix that.
• Crime Rate Goes Down in the South, Minister Presents February Awards:
  On Wednesday, March 13, 2013, Minister of National Security, Hon. John Saldivar presented certificates of award to officers commanding the Intermediate Southern Formation and Toledo Formation for their performance during the month of February in reducing major crimes within their respective jurisdictions. Comparative Crime Statistics for the month of February, 2013, show that both these formations, which are part of the Southern Zone, saw a 50% reduction in major crimes, as compared to the figures for the previous month. The awards, which are now a monthly feature, consist of a certificate of appreciation to the outstanding formation and a cash reward of $1,000 to the winning zone for the month in question, funds which are used as the Officer Commanding that zone and his team determine as they continue to step up efforts to provide better safety and security in their respective jurisdiction.
• Potable Water Coming to Indian Church and San Carlos:
  Over 105 families in the northern villages of Indian Church and San Carlos in the Orange Walk District will soon bid farewell to old water hand pumps and hand-dug wells thanks to a Social Investment Fund project, which will supply quality, potable water to both villages. The project was officially launched last Friday, March 8th at 10 am in the village of Indian Church. Both Indian Church and San Carlos Villages are poor communities with 37% of their population living below the poverty level. The villagers have been relying on wells, hand pumps and the New River Lagoon as their main sources of water for over three decades. These water sources, however, are untreated and have continuously posed health treats for waterborne diseases to the residents. The SIF project, which will be financed by the Government of Belize at approximately $996,000 from a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), will address the water needs of both villages.
• Faith Lift By Zelda Hill : Money & Power � Handle with Wisdom!:
  Mo n e y a n d Power are two resources that most people seem to be working up insatiable appetites for more� and more� and more of these days. Their pursuit is often disguised and promoted by the label - 'ambition', thus provoking feelings of discontent in a person who may be apathetic towards the desire to pursue wealth and power. This desire is legitimate when motivated by a genuine concern to satisfy needs, ease suffering and improve the standard of living of self and humanity. It is when the desire for money and power are aroused by selfish and vile motives that no measure of skillful caution can limit the resulting havoc. Even when the noblest of intentions abound, a person who obtains or is entrusted with wealth and absolute power to be used at his disposal can make grave blunders and become corrupted. Ironically, the possessor also becomes a casualty when money and power are not handled with wisdom.
• Adding Flesh to the Word A Budget Belizeans Can "Feel":
  This is, by my recollection, the sixth Budget I have had the honour of presenting to this Honourable House. It has always been a privilege to do so. But this one is occasion for a particular sense of accomplishment. And this is so not least because it comes almost exactly one year after the United Democratic Party won its historic consecutive second term as the national Government of our beloved Belize. Now, the details of our stewardship in this first twelve months of the new Administration will be set out in the body of the speech. But it is as well to strike two high notes right at the start. We have pretty much done what the sceptics said was impossible. The Superbond- that bane of our existence, that monster of our nightmare- has been tackled and tamed. Not vanquished, mind you, but put on a leash and confined to its lair. And as a direct consequence, but also as a result of adroit stewardship and unshakeable commitment to the welfare of this nation, this Budget will see absolutely no new taxes and no overall spending cuts.
• Police Change Of Command:
  National Police Training Academy, Belmopan, January 9, 2013, Price Barracks, Ladyville, Friday, February 1, 2013
• Training The Team TO Tackle The Trade, Of Illegal Firearm, Ammunition and Explosives:
  UN Sponsored Course Graduates 44 Belizean Law-Enforcers. A couple weeks ago, I had the privilege of representing Belize at a conference that was organized by the Latin American and Caribbean group of friends to look at a draft of arms trade treaty that was submitted by the president of the UN conference on the arms trade treaty, Ambassador Peter Walcott. The group of friends included representatives from Peru, Mexico, Chile, Uruguay, Australia Canada, El Salvador, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize. It was a two day conference that I attended and during those two days, there were several proposals that were made to refine a strategic plan and some terms of reference that was to be submitted to the next UN Conference some time later in this month in New York. There was a high degree of confidence among the various participants of that group. The intervention that we had over those two days will place a strong text at the UN conference on arms trade treaty that I spoke to earlier.
• La Ruta Maya 2013: Gateway to Experiencing the Awesome Beauty of Belize's Untold Natural Wealth:
  It was an early start to a long holiday weekend last Friday when the 15th paddling of the La Ruta Maya River Challenge got underway under the Hawksworth Bridge in the middle of the beautiful Twin-Town of San Ignacio/ Santa Elena. While every race is primarily, or ultimately, about winning (depending on whether you're fast-forwarding or rewinding), La Ruta Maya is perhaps one of those sports that defies all the rules of the game. While everyone certainly would like to win, the paddling of the Ruta Maya and all the holiday activity (or lazy hangout) has, in itself, become such a thrilling (and relaxing) thing for those in the canoes and on the river-bank, it hardly matters at the end of the day (or any of the four days) who arrives first or who pulls up last. But before we continue, lest we be accused of disrespecting the winners, let us acknowledge that it was the Belize Bank Bull Dogs who came in first, for the second year consecutively, thereby winning their 9th title since the event originated fifteen year ago in 1998. We are speaking here, of course, only about the Elite Class; and there are so many other categories, including one that is most candidly dubbed the Pleasure Category, won this year by the Police, whose daytime (or nighttime) job is anything but pleasure. Yes, Belize Bank won overall this year again, although this time they were not the first to cross the finish line at the Belcan Bridge in the Old Capital of Belize City. That distinction belongs to Zip Rider, who incidentally was also the first to establish a commanding lead at an important juncture (Iguana Creek Bridge), where we first saw the race (although they were later overtook that same day by Belize Bank who finished first in the first leg ending at Banana Bank) As it eventually turned out, Zip Rider, favored from the start, along with Belize Bank, to be one of the two rival teams with a clear shot at the 2013 Championship, did not even finish second overall, but third.
• Belmopan Kids and Youth Cup 2013:
  Dmitri Fabro & Eddy Valencia of Valencia YWAM Roaring Creek (1) Ronald Orellana & Jairo Lopez of Celtic Las Flores

The March 31st, 2013 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• EXCERPTS FROM BUDGET DEBATE:
  
• ICJ Referendum DOA? Belize Government Rejects Guatemala's Proposals:
  On March 26, 2013, the Governemnt of Belize, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, issued the following self-explanatory Press Release: The Government of Belize, having had occasion to review 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.
• Big Up the Cops! Quick Response Foils Kidnapping:
  Police have foiled a kidnapping in Corozal. On Sunday Night in Corozal Town, a one-year-old child, Ivy Yang Chen, was taken at gunpoint from her mother, Mei Tang Chen. Kidnappers demanded a ransom of US $450 Thousand. But, the Police responded quickly and their prompt action freed the child form her kidnappers. Here is the story as related by the Police to the media on Wednesday, and as reported by Channel 7 News. Allen Whylie Police Commissioner: "On Sunday, to be exact, we had a very heinous unspeakable crime that was committed against a young mother. In the Corozal district sometime after 7:30 that night, she was driving on a road in Santa Rita Village area, where 2 vehicles intercepted her vehicle and stop her from moving. Several persons came out of that vehicle and took her baby away, basically kidnap her child, a 1 year old baby."
• Who Will It Be Now? Cross Country Classic Coming!:
  After five-years of Belizean drought, with Foreigners drinking up all the Cross Country glory, last year, 2012, young Giovanni Choto reclaimed the Garland for Belize and made all of us proud. Who will it be in 2013? That's what everybody wants to know. On Holy Saturday, March 30, 2013 we will all find out. Belizean again, or back to the Foreigners? What will it be; and who will it be?
• From the Desk of the Chairman: Life and Death - Cycle of Cycles:
  It's that time of the year once again when issues of Life and Death come into sharp focus. It is, of course, the Easter Season, which is centrally about how one Man died in order that all Mankind might live. Everywhere, in every way, the cycle of Life and Death constantly plays out before us and around us. But, in this part of the World, in this peculiar Land, there is something in 2013 that tells us there is more at hand than just another turn in the regular cycle. Indeed, by all accounts, the year just ended a quarter ago marked for us the end of an entire cycle; the cycle of cycles, if you will; and the beginning of something completely new.
• Congrats!:
  The Ministry of Health extends congratulations to Dr. Marjorie Parks on her Outstanding Women Award by the Women's Department of the Ministry of Human Development, Social Transformation and Poverty Alleviation. Dr. Parks was nominated for this award by the Nurses' Association of Belize. The award was given to her Wednesday Night, March 27, 2013 at a ceremony at the Bliss Center for the Performing Arts. Each year, the Women's Department chooses six women - one from each district - for their outstanding contributions to their organization and community. The Women's Department feels that "it is important to take note of all the honourees' contribution and to use the ceremony to reenergize their efforts in the path that leads to women's empowerment and respect for human rights."
• New Venezuelan Ambassador Presents credentials to Governor General:
  His Excellency Yoel Del Valle Perez Marcano, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to Belize has presented his credentials to the Governor General of Belize, His Excellency Sir Colville Young. The Governor General extended a warm welcome to the Ambassador on behalf of the people of Belize; and both the Governor General and the Ambassador expressed hope for the continuation of their strong and cordial diplomatic relationship.
• Prime Minister on Leave:
  The Office of the Prime Minister informs that the Hon. Dean Barrow departed the Country Wednesday, March 27, 2013 on personal leave. During the Prime Minister's absence, Hon. Gaspar Vega, the Deputy Prime Minister, will act as Prime Minister. Prime Minister Dean Barrow expects to return to Belize on Easter Monday, April 1, 2013.
• PUBLIC CAUTION Prime Minister on Leave Rising Cases of Hepatitis A:
  The Ministry of Health is investigating a cluster of fourteen suspected cases of Hepatitis A that have occurred over the last three weeks in the Trio Village, Stann Creek District. One such case has been confirmed by lab. Hepatitis A is a food and waterborne disease with symptoms that may include yellowing of the eyes and skin, dark urine, light-colored stool along with mild fever, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite among others. This self-limiting disease can also be contracted from close contact with infected individuals. T h e Ministry advises the public to take necessary precautions (as listed below) to prevent contamination and spread of the virus.
• "Stop Trying to Scare the Belizean People!" Belmopan Member Rebuts Leader of the Opposition:
  Let me first observe that there are two traditional markers, standards or yardsticks used to judge a country's performance, or in this case, the performance of the United Democratic Party Government, My Government. And Mr., Speaker, let me say for the record that there are some who take issue with my reference to this United Democratic Party Government, this Government of the Honorable Dean Oliver Barrow, as "My Government". I continue to so unabashedly because, unlike those on the other side who are ashamed of the record of their government between 1998 and 2008 and ashamed of associating themselves with the Government of Said Musa, I am extremely proud of this United Democratic Party Government, and exceedingly proud of my Prime Minister, the Honorable Dean Oliver Barrow (applause).
• Faith Lift By Zelda Hill: The Resurrection of Christ: Blind Faith or Fact?:
  Without the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, Christianity is baseless. Today, over 2 billion people worldwide claim to be Christians and thus embrace faith in the deity, virgin-birth, suffering, death and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians in Belize join yearly with Christendom to commemorate the Lenten Season and Easter, during which many commit to fasting and to giving up certain luxuries while others reflect on and celebrate the spiritual significance of Jesus' sufferings and triumphant resurrection from the dead.
• All in Two Days' WorK PM Barrow Wraps Up Debate on 2013-2014 Budget:
  Mr. Speaker, let me try to deal as quickly as I can with what the main protagonists on the other side had to say. You know I was told that I should try to respond to at least each of their Deputy Leaders, but there are so many deputy leaders, that I am afraid I have to abandon the enterprise (applause)! A lot of chiefs and very few Indians over on that side! Anyway, I do want to bear well in mind, Mr. Speaker, as we conclude this marathon session, your admonition right at the start as to conduct. And I think, by and large, you have been rewarded; I feel the debate has been relatively civil. I don't want to depart from that, but I do have to sound a warning, Mr. Speaker. It is a hollowed parliamentary tradition everywhere in the civilized world, you know, for opponents to deploy language as a weapon. This is what happens in high-quality debates; you employ words as a sword on which to impale the other side. There's nothing quite like a well-turned phrase; a shaft that hits the mark.
• "Busy Serving the People" (Presentation by Hon. Rene Montero during Budget Debate 2013-2014):
  Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the 2013/2014 budget. But before I continue with my presentation I must take time to publicly congratulate our Prime Minister the Hon. Dean Barrow for his stewardship in the successful renegotiation of the super bond. Once again he has proven the 'nay-Sayers' wrong, and has proven that only a UDP Government can successfully deliver this country through financial hardship. The past year has been a successful one for the Ministry of Works regardless of the many challenges we have been faced with and the numerous obstacles we had to overcome. Nonetheless, I am pleased to report that due to superb leadership, dedication, and hard work of the WORKS TEAM we were able to show marked improvement in the road infrastructure of this jewel. Budgetary constraints continues to be a reality not only in this country, but in all developing economies thus the reason we are ever mindful of our Prime Minister's advice of the need to enhance the institutional capacity of ministries and encourage sustained improvement in their performance and management so that we can meet the expectations of the various stakeholders in our development efforts.
• Congrats & Welcome : Recruit Intake #88 130 New Officers Join The Ranks of the Belize Police Department:
  Graduation Ceremonies were held on Tuesday, March 19, 2013 for 130 new officers of the Belize Police Force who make up Recruit Squad #88. During the Ceremonies, Awards were given out in various categories. Baton of Honor went to RPC 1528 Andy Rodriguez; In the Written Exam, First Place went to RPC 1450 Rodrigo Castillo, and Second Place to RPC 1528 Andy Rodriguez; the award for Most Consistent Recruit went also to RPC 1528 Andy Rodriguez. The Best Physical Condition Award was taken by RPC 1480 Daniel Jimenez; the 1st Shooting Qualification Award went to RPC 1467 David Gongora; the Commandant's Prize was received by WRPC 1544 Lourdes Torres; and the 1st in First Aid Award went to RPC 1579 Zair Pott.
• More Expert-Training for Crime-Fighters UN and UK Sponsor Forensic Ballistic Training:
  The United Nations Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC) in collaboration with the British High Commission in Belize and the Ministry of National Security has conducted a one-week Training on Forensic Ballistics mainly in support of criminal investigations and the counter-proliferation of firearms and ammunition. A one day seminar entitled 'Overview of Forensic Ballistics for Decision-Makers and Policy-Makers' was followed by a 4 day technical course exclusively for forensic technicians, forensic scientists and other specialized personnel. These activities form part of UNLIREC´s broader technical assistance to countries of the Caribbean and Central America focused on curbing illicit small arms trafficking and reducing armed violence.
• Police Restructures to Meet New Challenges:
  Some significant fine-tuning has been taking place within the Police Department to better equip it to meet the new challenges. On March 18, 2013, Commissioner Allen Whylie summoned the media to a Press Briefing where he outlined the changes which are intended for greater efficiency and effectiveness. "We cannot be satisfied in terms of the status quo, and the way how things have been done in the past. And whilst there will be pit falls, challenges and difficulties, rest assured that we firmly believe that the senior leadership level, that these changes are for the betterment of the department as well as the services to the nation." The policing zones of the country have been re-constructed to ensure that important administration is carried under the direct command of senior officers. There are 4 different regions or zones; Commander of the Northern Region is Sr. Superintendent Joseph Myvette. Eastern Zone Commander is Assistant Commissioner of Police Miguel Segura. Senior Superintendent Aaron Guzman commands the Western Region. And Senior Superintendent Robert Mariano commands the Southern Region.
• Belmopan Kids and Youth Cup 2013:
  Belmopan City Council Kids and Youth Cups 2013 (Organized by Belmopan Football League)

The April 14, 2013 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Plus TV Defames Saldivar?:
  Belmopan Rep Takes Andrews and Plus TV to Court. Minister of National Security and Area Representative for Belmopan, Hon. John Saldivar has filed a law suit against Patrick Andrews and PLUS TV for comments made by Andrews against Saldivar, comments which the Minister says cannot be proven, that are absolutely untrue and manufactured. The comments were made by Andrews on Plus TV's Morning Show, Rise and Shine in an exchange between Andrews and Minister of Education Hon. Patrick Faber who was a guest on the show. Andrew's comments were regarding the use of public funds which Saldivar, as an area representative, was authorized to utilize, in accordance with financial regulations, to provide assistance to his constituents during the Christmas Season.
• The Media Polices Everyone Who Will Police the Media ?:
  Over the past two decades or so, there has been a proliferation of media entities, mainly electronic; and talk shows, mainly on weekday mornings, have become a staple of the Belizean diet. The competition has grown exceedingly intense as every media organization endeavours to dominate listenership, which means being able to feed the public's insatiable appetite for scandal and sensation. It is, some will argue, an inevitable feature of a developed, in our case, a developing society. It is often hailed as Liberalism and an essential tool of a vibrant Democracy.
• New Deputy Mayor for Belmopan:
  At a meeting of the Belmopan City Council held on Tuesday, 9th April 2013, Mr. Joel Westby was elected as the new Deputy Mayor of Belmopan for 2013-2014. He succeeds Councillor Amilcar Uma�a who held the post for two consecutive years, 2011/2012 and 2012/2013. Mr. Westby is a well-known educator who is presently teaching at the Kuxlin Ha Government School in Belmopan. The Mayor, Councillors and Workers of the Belmopan City Council wish him every success in his new assignment.
• Belmopan Bandits T-Shirts for Sale:
  Fans of the Belmopan Bandits Football Club are advised that the official Bandits Team Jersey is on Sale at a price of $50.00 each. Visit our Team Facebook page at www.facebook/ belmopanbandits or email us at bmpbanditsfc@gmail. com or call: 626-8362. Dress Like a Winner !
• Paving the Road to Sea-Side Paradise:
  Project launched to Upgrade Hopkins Access Road. A Launching Ceremony to signal the start of works for the upgrading of the Hopkins road from the Southern Highway to the Main Street of Hopkins Village at King Cassava was held Friday afternoon April 12, 2013. The project, funded by the Government of Belize and a grant from the European Union (E.U.) as part of the Belize Rural Development Project II, is being executed through a contract with Belize Roadway Construction in partnership with Rodla Construction Company Ltd. Tourists and Belizeans alike with the desire to travel and explore the country of Belize will enjoy the outcome of the project, which will result in the 4 � mile access road upgraded from gravel to paved status. The project will not only enhance the beauty and appeal of travelling to Hopkins, but will also increase the livelihoods of the people of the village through the expected influx of visitors and the inevitable proliferation of new business in the village of Hopkins.
• WANTED: 'The Blessing':
  What the Old Testament Jewish family knew and the Orthodox-Jewish family knows as 'the Blessing', which translates to the love, attention, encouragement and security that all children need, is missing from our homes. It is no secret that the home or lack thereof, is the primary reason for the escalating mayhem in our Belizean society. The absence of parental guidance, love and acceptance, replaced by indifference, neglect and abuse has had serious consequences in many children's lives. Unless there is some positive intervention, these children become youths and adults who are unable to feel accepted by others and to build meaningful relationships; they become withdrawn and without concern for others and when they have children of their own they believe that they have no blessing to pass on to them.
• Water Rates to remain unchanged April:
  On December 31, 2012, in accordance with the Water and Sewage (Tariffs) Byelaws, 2002 (S.I. 67 of 2002), the Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) made a proposal to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) that there be no Annual Review Proceeding (ARP) for the determination of tariffs for the Annual Tariff Period (ATP) April 1, 2013, to March 31, 2014, and that the current tariffs remain unchanged. In accordance with the said Byelaws, the PUC concluded that there was no exceptional circumstances to warrant that an ARP be initiated on the PUC's own volition and accepted BWS' proposal. Consequently, the currently approved tariffs, fees and charges shall remain in effect for the ATP April 1, 2013, to March 31, 2014. The approved tariffs, fees and charges are as follows:
• Training, Training and More Training:
  Police Officers Complete Course in Maneuvering Motorcycle. For our disciplined forces, every aspect of their work and operations must be executed with skill, professionalism and teamwork if they are to be effective. It might seem like a minor matter, but even the art of maneuvering a motorcycle through the streets of the city requires some specialized training. This past week, over twenty Police officers completed a three-day course in basic motorcycle maneuvering. Most of the officers taking part in the training were first time motorcycle riders. The officer in charge of the training, Sergeant Jerome Stevens, speaking with the Government Press Officer, explained: "The purpose of this training class is to allow the Police officers to learn to ride motorcycles.
• Major Upgrade Underway:
  The National Agriculture and Trade Show, a traditional, annual event, is less than a month away and plans are well underway for it. This year it's not just the regular, routine preparation, but major physical upgrading of the show grounds on the outskirts of the Nation's Capital, and significant changes in the lineup of activities for the event itself. After leading a weekend tour of the show grounds by members of the media, CEO Jose Alpuche on Monday accompanied Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture Hon. Gaspar Vega on a thorough inspection of the work in progress.
• Precinct Policing Produces Progress:
  When Commissioner Allen Whylie took over command of the Police Department on January 9, 2013, one of the first things he stated quite clearly was that under his leadership the Police Department, the structure and style of Police Department would not be rigid but would rather be subject to whatever changes are necessary in order to be efficient and effective in fighting crime and restoring and maintaining citizens' security and safe communities. " We are challenged with the issue of crime countrywide, but in particular, in Belize City," the Commissioner said. "I want to tell you, don't despair. I am committed; the leadership is committed; the government is committed to make the necessary changes to ensure that the citizenry across this country, and in particular Belize City, can enjoy the level of safety and security that they deserve; and I will work tirelessly, the senior officers and the members of this Belize Police Department will work tirelessly.
• Lakers Might Make It To the Playoffs:
  Kobe Bryant had surgery Saturday on his torn Achilles tendon, ending his season with two games left in the Los Angeles Lakers' playoff chase. Lakers trainer Gary Vitti thinks Bryant will need at least six to nine months for recovery from the most serious injury of his 17-year NBA career. Given Bryant's history of swift recovery from countless minor injuries, Vitti and Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak both believe the 34-yearold guard could be back for their season opener in the fall.
• ELECTIONS AND BOUNDARIES DEPARTMENT VILLAGE COUNCIL ELECTIONS - 2013:
  Nominations opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 10:00 a.m. in all Villages Villages without asterisk denote Poll closes at 1:00 p.m
• Melonie Gillett's First Latino Track! Collaboration with Belmopan's Chami-Ka:
  Melonie Gillett is, without a doubt, one of Belize's best musical artists currently making music. She's got charm, but she's also got lyrics; and she's got the voice. Having already made her mark, Melonie is doing it again; and this time she's doing something completely different from what we've gotten used to from her, demonstrating the confidence she's developed as a successful and ever-growing, authentic and original Belizean artist. Teaming up with well known Belmopan based latino artist, Chami- Ka, Melonie is now singing in Spanish. The track is called, "LO QUE SIENTO POR TI", and it's Melonie's first ever Spanish recording.
• Address by Hon. Rene Montero: Launch of Paving of Hopkins Access Road:
  I wish to extend my warmest welcome and hearty thanks to my colleague Hon. Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development (With responsibility for Economic Development), CEO of the Ministry of Economic Development, CEO - Ministry of Works and Transport, Chairman of Hopkins Village, Representatives from the European Union, Staff from the Project Execution Unit and the Ministry of Works and Transport, Villagers and students from Hopkins and surrounding Villages and all invited guests - Thank you for taking part in the Launching Ceremony for the Upgrading of the Hopkins Village Road today. In particular, my special thanks to Mr. Cosimo Lamberti-Fossati the EU Technical Support Officer to Belize for joining us on this momentous occasion on behalf on the European Union.
• Big Up Bandits! Belmopan Leads PLB:
  They are the defending champions from last year, and the Belmopan Bandits Football Club seem to be in good shape to retain their title in the Premier League of Belize (PLB). Having strengthened their line-up with additions as big as Belize's international scoring machine, Deon McCauley, the Belmopan Bandits Football Club are now sitting on top in the standings in the PLB with 26 points, being the only team to have already qualified for the playoffs. This was accomplished last weekend, Saturday night to be exact, when they defeated the Belize Defense Force (BDF) by a score of 2 to 1, McCauley scoring the team's second and winning goal, after helping to set the play for the first goal by beating two BDF defenders and passing the ball to Jerome James who found Denmark Casey, who in turn found the back of the net. The BDF's only goal in the game came from a penalty.
• Barbados Economy Contracts in First Quarter of 2013, its Central Bank Says:
  The Central Bank of Barbados Tuesday said that the Barbados economy contracted by 0.4 per cent in the first three months of 2013 and urged the authorities to put "back on track" the fiscal consolidation strategy as well as a new medium term adjustment strategy to turn around the island's economic fortunes. In its review of the Barbados economic performance fore the first quarter of this year, the Central bank said that on current trends there may be no real increase in the contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) from the tourism or international business sectors in 2013. It said that the the forecasts for the rest of the economy are no better, with overall GDP expected to be virtually flat.
• Belmopan Kids and Youth Cup 2013:
  Results of Belmopan City Council Kids and Youth Cups 2013 (Organized by Belmopan Football League)
• Darnell Did It - It's About 'Darn' Time!:
  Almost one year ago when LeBron James finally won his first NBA championship, he exclaimed, "It's about damn time!" And two weeks ago when Belizean cyclist Darnell Barrow finally won his first Cross Country Championship, that's pretty much what most Belizeans were thinking: "It's about darn time!" Certainly, from 2011, if not before, many were predicting a Darnell Barrow victory; and while he didn't reclaim the garland for Belize that year, he was the second Belizean to cross the finish line, coming in fifth behind Shane Vasquez, who took fourth place that year, and who was at that time the last Belizean to win the title, doing so back in 2006. Shane was, of course, the first Belizean to cross the finish line in 2011, a Guatemalan cyclist, Luis Santizo, being the fifth straight foreigner that walked away with the prestigious garland following Shane's victory in 2006.

The April 28th, 2013 issue of The Capital Weekly is online HERE

This Week's Stories:

• Darrell versus Santino: Another UDP Challenge in the Making?:
  That UDP Mayor Darrell Bradley has within a short time proven himself to be a decisive and effective political leader is without question. And that many within and outside the UDP expect him to make the logical transition from City Hall to National Politics is not much of a secret. What is not too clear is where and how exactly he intends to enter that arena of National Politics. That is until Thursday of this week when Bradley confirmed to Channel Seven News that he is in fact interested in Caribbean Shores: "Persons have approached me from Caribbean Shores. I'm talking about members of the Caribbean Shores Committee. That's an area that I have very close contacts with. I worked previously on Carlos Perdomo's campaign. I assisted him in public relations. I have very strong contacts and ties in that area. Persons had approached me for running in that area. I will say at this moment that is not something that I have ruled out and I am actively considering that as an option. But at this present moment, my total focus is directed at being an effective Mayor. The city has a lot of challenges and I am in no way thinking on any kind of elections."
• Belmopan's Bernard Bestowed British Honour:
  Four Belizeans have been honoured at the Belize House for their selfless and outstanding contributions to Belize. The honourees include 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. Also receiving the insignia of a Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire were Mr. Pen Cayetano for his wonderful and numerous contributions to music and art; and Senior Justice of the Peace, Ms. Crispina Hyde, for her selfless service to education and community.
• Yanira Wins! New UB President:
  The University of Belize Student Body held elections over the past week, and Yanira Garcia emerged as the new President of the Student Government, beating out four other candidates for the position, namely incumbent, Hope Abadi; and challengers, Anthony Bedran and Caramyn Reid. Yanira Garcia garnered 234 votes. Coming in second (10 votes behind Yanira) was Caramyn Reid with 224 votes. Third was Anthony Bedran with 140 votes. Incumbent Hope Abadi came in last with only 55 votes. The other persons elected to the Student Government are: Luis Mendez Jr.(Vice President); Jasmine Thompson (Financial Controller); Felix Mai; (Secretary of Legislation); Jamira Serano (FEA Senator); Victor Cayetano (Secretary of Programming); Daniel Smith(F.S.T Senator); Elenita Norales (Nursing and Allied Health Senator); and Kent Welch (Secretary of Sports); Yadira Argueta (Administrative Officer); Shahira Quiroz; (Secretary of Advocacy); Liane Torres (FMSS Senator).
• Belize's Tourism Figures Up for First Quarter of 2013:
  by Laura Esquivel Frampton Director of BTB. The Tourism Statistics are in for the first quarter of 2013, and once again, the news is great. Those figures show that the hotel sector registered revenues of $60 Million since January. Overnight arrivals were as high as 93 Thousand during that period. In March alone, overnight arrivals reached a record high of 35 Thousand in a single month. Even Cruise Tourism, which had been lagging behind, showed an encouraging increase in arrivals. Speaking with Channel Five News this week, Director of the Belize Tourism Board, Laura Esquivel Frampton, said: "We're happy to say once again that we have another record breaking months this year. In fact, all of this year, so far-January, February and March-have been record breaking in terms of overnight arrivals. Overall, and this includes the airport and all the other ports of entry, January saw 17.1 percent increase; February saw 11.59 percent increase; and March saw an 11. 03 percent increase. So, cumulatively, for the quarter, we are seeing a 13.02 percent increase in Tourism Arrivals for the overnight sector.
• Count Our Blessings!: Delroy Cuthkelvin Chairman, Editorial Board:
  Last week, we reprinted a news story from the Caribbean about the fact that the Economy of Barbados had not only failed to register any growth during the first quarter of 2013, but had actually contracted or shrunk. That was bad news for the Economy of a nation which is the wealthiest and most developed in the Eastern Caribbean, and which has for some time now enjoyed one of the highest per capita incomes in the region. This week, we report on the notable increase in Belize's Tourism figures, which is only one sector of our Economy that recorded GDP Growth in the past year of 5.3 percent. While we do not yet have the overall figures on the performance of Belize's Economy for the first quarter of 2013, all projections are that when the final figures come in for the current fiscal year, we would have again registered considerable growth.
• PM Barrow meets UN Sec Gen in New York; Foreign Minister and CEO Join Him for CARICOM Meeting:
  Prime Minister, the Hon. Dean Barrow left the country on Sunday, April 21, 2013 on official business to New York and Haiti. In New York, the Prime Minister had an audience with the Secretary General of the United Nations, His Excellency, Ban Ki-Moon. Prime Minister Barrow briefed the Secretary General on Belize's position on the upcoming Referendum in October and on the Special Agreement with Guatemala. The Prime Minister's visit to New York is being coordinated by the Office of Belize's Permanent Representative to the United Nation. In Haiti, the Prime Minister meets with fellow Heads of States of the Caribbean at the Fifth Summit of Heads of State of the Associates of Caribbean States on 25th and 26th April, 2013. There, in Haiti, the Prime Minister is being joined by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Wilfred Elrington, and Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Alexis Rosado. Prime Minister Hon. Dean Barrow returns home to Belize on Sunday, 28th April, 2013.
• Belmopan Bandits T-Shirts for Sale:
  Fans of the Belmopan Bandits Football Club are advised that the official Bandits Team Jersey is on Sale at a price of $50.00 each. Visit our Team Facebook page at www.facebook/ belmopanbandits or email us at bmpbanditsfc@gmail. com or call: 626-8362. Dress Like a Winner !
• Oh How Sweet It Is! Residents of 'Young Bank' Community get Potable Water:
  Residents of Young Bank, a community on the outskirts of Camalote Village in the Cayo District, now enjoy quality, potable water twenty four hours a day thanks to a Social Investment Fund (SIF) and Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) project, which aims to improve and expand water supply to rural communities in Belize. The project was officially inaugurated on Sunday afternoon, 14 April 2013 during a brief ceremony in Young Bank. Young Bank is located about � mile on the Valley of Peace Road off the Western Highway and is a relatively new settlement behind Camalote Village with a population of approximately 470 Belizean residents, who were original immigrants from the neighboring Central American republics of Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Prior to the project, the residents suffered immensely from the lack of potable water especially during the dry season, when they had to rely on outdoor water reservoirs and delivery water trucks.
• New Drainage Project Addresses Infrastructure Needs In Buttonwood Bay Area of Belize City:
  A d r a i n a g e project that will address the infrastructure needs of over 600 residents in the Buttonwood Bay area of Belize City was officially launched during a brief ceremony on Monday April 22, 203 at the Canaan Seventh Day Adventist High School compound. The project will be implemented by the Social Investment Fund in collaboration with the Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) and financed by the Government of Belize through a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The project is estimated to cost $941,316.00. "This project exemplifies New Drainage Project Addresses Infrastructure Needs In Buttonwood Bay Area of Belize City the Government's seriousness to address the infrastructure needs of Belize City and to improve the living conditions of residents in the Buttonwood Bay Area, despite the economic challenges facing our country," Hon. Santiago Castillo, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development and Area Representative for Caribbean Shores, said. The project will entail the construction of approximately 5,700 linear feet of Ferroconcrete lined drains with covers for sidewalks, the replacement of new driveways and walkways and installation of new culverts and wing walls. In addition, water mains and service entrances will be relocated and new service connections will be installed. It will focus on Park Avenue, Pike Crescent East and Pike Crescent West, E Street and Buttonwood Bay Boulevard.
• Faith Lift By Zelda Hill: Are you on Solid Rock or in Sinking Sand?:
  Ho p e - f u l l y, by now y o u h a v e been convinced that no government has the answers to the problems that plague us as individuals, families and societies. National and global events may have also caused you to question whether there is a God. And if you believe God exists, you may have questioned whether He cares about us and our world. Take heart! Although our world seems to be spinning out of control, God is ultimately in control. However, God exercises His permissive will to help us understand that we could never be better off under our own rule than under His. But still we stubbornly reject His way and prefer to become dependent on leaders, governments and earthly systems to ease suffering, cure terminal illnesses and to bring an end to all the crime and violence.
• Spreading the Love:
  the Love "A friend in need is a friend indeed." That's exactly what Honourable John Saldivar is to Matilde Cerna, a 40 year old resident of Salvapan in the Belmopan area. Matilde lost her mobility as a result of Diabetes which resulted in an operation being conducted on her feet. She is the mother of four children, all boys. One of them is 15 year old Wilser Echavarria, seen in the photo along with his mother and Belmopan Area Representative, Honourable John Saldivar. He says the entire family is very thankful to their area representative as they are a household with limited means, struggling daily to make ends meet, and could hardly afford the cost of purchasing the wheel chair which his mother absolutely needs to be able to move around in her present condition.
• Upgrading Belmopan's Infrastructure Waiting Sheds - Shuttle Buses - Paved Streets:
  In the Old Capital, Belize City, the revolutionary upgrade in infrastructure spearheaded by that city's Mayor, Darrell Bradley, has been receiving much publicity, and deservedly so. In the new Capital, Belmopan, under the leadership of Mayor Simeon Lopez and his City Council, much is also happening in terms of the overall upgrade of the city's infrastructure, through a number of projects which are all a part of the comprehensive master plan to transform the Nation's Capital into a modern city. Thanks to the World Bank funded Belize Municipal Development Project (BMDP), monies obtained through the good stewardship of the Dean Barrow Administration (a total of $30 Million aimed at providing much needed infrastructure in seven major municipalities Countrywide) are being spent on the rehabilitation and upgrading of a number of streets in the Capital City.
• At Long Last! Potable Water Finally Coming to Belize River Valley:
  On Wednesday April 24, 2013, Hon. Edmund Castro, Area Representative for Belize Rural North, along with Hon. Godwin Hulse, Minister of Rural Development, and Chairman of the Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL), Alberto August, broke ground for a $7.8 Million water project in the Belize River Valley. The project will see some 550 families in nine villages in the area benefit from safe, potable water supplied by BWSL. Work has commenced immediately on the project, and within 90 days Scotland Half Moon should become the first village to be supplied with water. As the project progresses along the river valley, the other villages will be hooked up to the system. The project will be completed in December of this year.
• CEO and Commander Complete Course for Senior Officials in Republic of China on Taiwan:
  CEO in the Ministry of National Security, Colonel (Ret.) George Lovell and Commander of the Belize Defence Force, Brigadier General David Jones have both completed a three-week National Development Course in the Republic of China on Taiwan. The course, which ran from April 1 to 19, 2013, was for senior level Government officials, both military and civilian. The participants were educated on a wide range of issues and challenges that Taiwan faces, with a view to explore how those experiences and the response to them could be translated, adopted and applied to the issues and challenges confronting developing nations such as Belize. There was extensive and meaningful exchange on Military and Police matters, but knowledge was also imparted on a wide range of non-security topics, including the Economy, Industry, International Cooperation and Exchange, both Technical and Educational as well as Cultural.
• Caribbean Disaster Managers Converge in Belize; Two-Day Planning Session Conducted at Radisson Fort George Hotel:
  A two-day session was conducted in Belize on April 17 and 18, 2003 by the Technical Advisory Committee of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). It's a committee that is made up of National Disaster Coordinators from the 18 members states of the Caribbean and participating regional bodies. The purpose of the two-day session was to formulate a five-year regional strategic plan for the period 2013-2018. Speaking with the local media at the start of the two day session, the Executive Director of CDEMA stated, "Well I think that one of the first challenges we face is changing the culture of our people to understand that disaster risk is a development issue. It is not simply a response issue. With that said, we also need to look at the collective capacity of our region to deal with the requirements for responding to catastrophic events, and I think what we are trying to do as an organization is to link development, the macro-economic framework of countries, to this disaster resilience issue. I think if we can show clearly the relationship between the development, economic prosperity, which all our countries are now striving to achieve, then we can perhaps influence a little bit of the politics."
• Over 25 Attend Prosecutors Course:
  In order to improve the effectiveness of the Police Department and other law enforcement agencies in Belize, a Prosecutors' Course is being conducted at the National Police Training Academy in Belmopan. Speaking with the Government Press Office, Superintendent Flowers of the National Police Training Academy said: "This morning we started a two-week prosecutor development training course for members of the Police Department; that is from the ranks of corporal and sergeants; and we also invited members from the Fisheries Department, as well as Belize City Municipal Traffic, personnel who deal with court procedures. It covers the basic prosecution; introduction to prosecution, as well as formulating charges, and presenting a case in court, all the process that comes with that; how to, and what is needed in a report, when you are presenting; How to brief your witness or your police officers who will be witnesses in Court.
• John Saldivar Basketball Classic; Inter-Site Tournament Organized by Belmopan Basketball Association:
  The John Saldivar Basketball Classic is an Inter- site Competition managed by the Belmopan Basketball Association on behalf of, and with the gracious support of the Hon. John Saldivar. The Tournament is unique in that it not only divides players by geographical zones. Also it serves as a bridge between Basketball generations as teams must be comprised of senior players, over 35 players and under 18 players. This unique format allows for the transfer of basketball knowledge from older generations to younger generations. The tournament has six teams, those being: The New Site Falcons, Site 7, Tiger Town, Police Housing Areas, Piccini Extension/Cohune Walk and Roaring Creek Christ for Life.
• LeBron James and Kevin Durant: The Rematch that Everybody Wants to See:
  It took all of six hours Sunday night to reaffirm a sentiment that spent the last six months germinating: Anything less than a rematch of the 2012 Finals between the Heat and Thunder will be a disappointment. It won't be a disaster if one - or even both - of the league's top-two teams stumbles on the way to the sequel, but it will be a letdown. Heat-Thunder II is the rare scenario in which virtually all angles of analysis lead to the same conclusion. Want to see the best players? LeBron James and Kevin Durant are No. 1 and No. 2 again this season. Want to see the best teams? The Heat had the league's best regular-season record and the Thunder finished second, while Oklahoma City posted the best margin of victory and Miami ranked second. Love offense? Miami was first, Oklahoma City second. Love defense? Both teams finished in the top seven.
• ELECTIONS & BOUNDARIES DEPARTMENT Public Notice:
  The Elections and Boundaries Commission, in accordance with Part II, Sections 6 and Part VI, Section 35 of the Village Councils Act, Chapter 88 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2003, hereby release the official schedule for Village/Community Council Elections 2013 In all villages nomination opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 10:00 a.m. No asterisks denote Poll closes at 1:00 p.m. * Denote Poll closes at 3:00 p.m. ** Denote Poll closes at 5:00 p.m.
• Alumni Achievement Award: Hon. Liselle Allamilla receives from University of Idaho:
  The Senator, Honourable Lisel Alamilla, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development for Belize, has been honoured by the University of Idaho's College of Natural Resources (CNR), as the winner of its "2013 International Alumni Achievement Award". She was presented with the award at a banquet honoring outstanding CNR alumni and students in Moscow, Idaho, on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Minister Alamilla was nominated for this award due to her outstanding achievements, including her appointment as a minister in Belize's Cabinet, her selection as winner of the 2012 Whitley Award for Nature and her selection as winner of the 2010 Marsh Award for Conservation Leadership.
• Contracts Signed to Begin Road Project In Santa Elena - San Ignacio Area:
  In a brief ceremony held on Monday, April 22, 2013, at the Ministry of Works and Transport Conference Room, contracts were signed for Lot 4 of the 4th Road Project to begin works on the Santa Elena/San Ignacio Bypass Project, which includes the upgrading of Joseph Andrews Drive in San Ignacio up to its intersection with the Benque Viejo Road. The project, which is Development Bank (CDB) and the Government of Belize, was awarded to Norman Reimer of A & N Construction. The Ministry of Works will be assisted by supervision consultants, Becker International Consultants Limited. In addition to the aesthetic and infrastructural improvements, the BZD $5 Million project will bring economic benefits and employment to the area. The works are expected to be completed in eighteen months.
• Southern Zone Again Lowest levels of Crime in March of 2013:
  Last Wednesday, April 17, 2013, Minister of N a t i o n a l Security, Hon. John Saldivar presented a Certificate of Award and a Cheque of $1,000 to Senior Superintendent Robert Mariano, who heads the Southern Zone and is also the Officer Commanding the Dangriga Formation, which forms part of the Southern Zone. The Cheque of $1,000 is for the best performance by the Southern Zone, and the Certificate of Award is for the best performance by the Dangriga Formation in the Month of March.
• Belize Welcomed Home Her Very Own Yoga Master, Yogi Charu!:
  Belize recently welcomed home one of her very own, internationally acclaimed yoga master, Yogi Charu! The 37 year old yoga practitioner and teacher, Yogi Charu, was born in Belize City and grew up on Prince Street. He was first introduced to yoga at age 15 through his classmate and lifelong friend, Alexander Aguet. By age 16, determined to deepen his yoga practice and his understand of life through the science and philosophy of yoga; the young Belizean set off on a journey that took him to places like California, Hawaii, India, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia, Germany, Poland, Sweden, several countries in Africa, and New York where he currently resides. More than 20 years after leaving Belize; after years of studying yoga and meditation with adept yogis, after living as an ascetic yogi in the Himalayas, after years of teaching yoga around the world, after making a name for himself as an authentic yoga master; Yogi Charu has returned home to Belize to share his knowledge of yoga with us.
• Belmopan Kids and Youth Cup 2013:
  (Organized by Belmopan Football League)
• Good Things Happening in Cayo Central: Basketball Court Upgraded - Tournament Kicks Off:
  This past weekend, the Rene Montero Basketball Tournament kicked off in Santa Elena. The tournament in itself is significant news, but what is perhaps bigger news is that its is taking place on a sporting facility, the Santa Elena Basketball Court on Carmen Street, which has been greatly rehabilitated and upgraded through the commitment and effort of the same Area Representative, Hon. Rene Montero. The rehabilitation and upgrade included the installation of 1500 watts light bulbs on all posts; electrification of both bathrooms and the snack shop; connecting water supply to the court; installation of two brand new toilets and sinks for both bathrooms; hang metal doors on all 3 structures, and a metal window on the snack shop; total renovation of the fence and installation of 2 new gates, the front which is a slide gate and the back a swing gate; construction of a concrete drive-way at the entrance of the court.