Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 1 CapitalCapitalCapital

FromFFromromWeeklyWeekly Weekly thethe HeartHeart ofof thethe NationNationNation to toto the thethe SoulSoul Soul ofof of thethe the PeoplePeople People

No. 035 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Price: $1.00 Full Report on Public Service Awards and Luncheon Making Waves in London Prime Minister Barrow Concludes Official Visit rime Minister and investor strategy with re- Hon. Dean Barrow lation to the Sugar Industry. has just conclud- Throughout his visit, PM ed an official vis- Barrow proved himself to be it P to London along with his an impressive statesman, but wife, Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow. where he made his greatest im- It was, by all accounts, a pact was his appearance on the very successful trip. Mrs Bar- media, namely BBC and Sky row, for her part, raised in a News. On Sky News the PM el- gala event over 200,000 Belize oquently, insightfully and with Dollars for the construction of great poise discussed a range of a Pediatric Intensive Car Center issues including the Ashcroft Unit at the KHMH. The Prime factor; Finance, Banking and Minister got the opportunity to Taxes; Foreign Relations; Man- meet with very influential per- dela, Demographics and Race. sonalities like such as Secre- His London visit has no tary of State Rt. Hon. William doubt had its practical ben- Prime Minister Dean Barrow appearing on Sky News in London Hague and the Right Honorable efits, but in addition to that, Lord Mayor of the City of Lon- ing Belize trade and investment. ited the Tate and Lyle/Amer- the Prime Minister, by the way don, Alderman Roger Gifford. Prime Minister Barrow He had ican Sugar Refinery, got the he handled himself on such a He was honored by the City of an audience with her Majesty opportunity to see Belizean grand international stage, has London where he addressed a Queen Elizabeth and His Roy- Sugar being delivered, and met given a great boost to Beliz- special audience of global finan- al Highness Prince Charles. with senior officials to coor- ean national pride and patri- ciers and businessmen discuss- The Prime Minister vis- dinate Government of Belize otism. Respect, PM Barrow! Patrick and Plus Belmopan Area Rep Served as Lose First Round Acting PM for the Second Time For the second time An application filed by consecutively, Belmopan Rep- Talk Show Co-Host Patrick An- resentative, Hon. John Saldi- drews and Plus TV to strike out var was chosen to hold over a defamation claim by Hon. John as Acting Prime Minister. Saldivar against Andrews and Plus Prime Minister Hon. TV was heard before Justice Abel. Dean Barrow was on a week Justice Abel dismissed long official trip to London, the application in its entirety while Deputy Prime Minister and ordered that Patrick An- Hon. Gaspar Vega took a short drews and Plus TV pay costs. two-day personal leave from Fri- The Court ordered at- day June 28 to Sunday June 30. torney’s costs in the sum of It’s an important de- $500 to be paid by July 31, 2013. velopment because Saldivar is Basically, the court found considered a possible contend- Hon. John Saldivar, Belmopan that there was no merit to the ap- er for UDP Leadership when Rep & National Security Minister plication by Andrews and Plus PM Barrow eventually retires. TV to strike out Saldivar’s Claim. Again, it’s the second well known you can’t draw a Patrick Andrews, co-host of The substantive case is time he was chosen to serve as line with one point, but with Plus TV’s Rise and Shine Show therefore on course to be heard. Acting PM. In Geometry, it’s two points, you certainly can. Page 2 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013 From the Desk An Exciting Finish! The Finals Tied at One a Piece in of the Chairman Saldivar Basketball Classic 2013 Let’s Start Believing! next year’s World Cup Playoffs which will also be played in Brazil. In so doing, the Brazilians also reminded the na- tions of ancient Europe who once colonized this part of the World that, in Football and every other realm, new and supe- Game One played on Tuesday June 25 at Hilltop Basketball Court rior empires have since The finals series partic- game one were now ripping at emerged that must be ipants were set with the first the cords as the Cohune Walk respected accordingly. seed, Police Housing Area, anx- team jumped out to a lead that Delroy Cuthkelvin The FIFA Con- ious to face off against second it held for the entire game. Each seed, Cohune Walk Area, to de- Chairman, Editorial Board ferderations Cup is a surge from the talented Police termine who would be crowned Housing Area was countered e might tournament for which champion of the 2013 John by Cohune Walk led by veteran need to qualification is secured Saldivar Basketball Classic. Christian Rodriguez, who dedi- apologize at the Gold Cup, so a The best of three series cated much of his offensive fo- for edi- good performance in commenced last Tuesday with cus on the low block of the right a showcase of Police Housing torializingW two weeks the United States next side of the court. The simple Area’s athleticism and offensive strategy seemed to dumbfound consecutively about week could advance Be- prowess, as the Police Hous- Police Housing Area. Football, but we can’t lize’s quest to reach the ing Area took an eighteen to In the end, Police Hous- say there’s anything Confederations Cup four lead on the second seeded ing Area took its first loss in the occupying our mind in 2015. Our goal is, of Cohune Walk team. The out- 2013 John Saldivar Classic, set- look for the Cohune Walk team as much these days. course, to eventually ting up an all or nothing con- seemed gloomy as the run and frontation in Game Three to Belize’s upcom- reach the World Cup gun style of the Police Housing be played Thursday 4th of July Area team clearly out-shined ing trip to the CONCA- Playoffs; and if these as- at the Hilltop Basketball Court the perimeter focused approach CAF Gold Cup for the pirations are to be even- in Belmopan City. One could of the Cohune Walk team who first time ever is a great tually fulfilled, we must hardly ask for a more exciting seemed unwilling to sacrifice finish to the John Saldivar occasion to amplify the start believing now that their bodies in order to attack Bastketball Classic 2013. national pride we as a they are achievable. the rim. people and a nation ex- We must, of When the rains came, perienced almost six course, also invest heav- Cohune Walk, after cutting a months ago when our ily in our boys and the huge lead in half were still 13 Capital Weekly points down with 5:40 to go. From the Heart of the Nation football boys performed organization behind To protect the players, officials respectably well in the them who, in our view postponed the conclusion of the To the Soul of the People Copa Centro America, are putting up the best game with clock frozen at 5.40. Published By: Thursday came, and the thereby qualifying for effort we’ve seen in our Roots & Rhythm Ltd. the next level of play. lifetime. They’ve earned tension grew. The final 5:40 of game one would be played and 12 Lime Street This past week- our support, not just then game two would start after Belmopan end, we witnessed Bra- a casual kind of sup- a short intermission. It could zil, a long established port, but the full and mean two wins in one night, Chairman: power-house in this unreserved backing and prestige for the victor. The Delroy Cuthkelvin hemisphere, humiliate of our People and the final five minutes of game one proved that Police Housing Area the reigning World Cup State; and we must, in- Business Manager: had too big a lead for Cohune Karen Ozaeta Champions, Spain, in deed, put our monies Walk to overcome, as Housing the finals of the Confed- where our mouths are. Area cruised to the finish with a Compositor: erations Cup. In so do- Let’s face it, there double-digit win. William Cuthkelvin ing, the Brazilians who are many sports out It’s common for fans to take for granted what sheer were playing at home, there, but in the World, Telephone: adrenaline can accomplish when 802-1284 set the stage for what Football is King; and if we a basketball player sees his sea- their home fans are want to be great, we had son coming to an end. Game two Email: hoping will be a domi- better start believing, was a 180 degrees turnaround. capitalweeklybzebmp nating performance at and behaving like we do. The perimeter shots that failed to find the bottom of the net in @gmail.com Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 3 Highway Patrol Strengthened

Ministry ofrecorded Transport a high number of road receivesBelize Diesel and Equipment New Vehicles deaths in 2012, equivalent to Company Limited and formal- approximately 19 traffic deaths ly handing over the vehicles per 100,000 inhabitants - Be- and keys to the Ministry of lize still maintains the highest Works and Transport, the lead fatality rate record amongst agency in this important and the Caribbean Development strategic initiative to promote Bank member countries. greater adherence to, and com- These highway patrol pliance with, traffic laws; thus vehicles are key deliverables un- improving road user behavior. der the Project’s Enforcement The official launch of Component which aims at im- the Belize Road Safety Proj- proving traffic law enforcement ect took place on March 14, along the George Price High- 2013 at the George Price Cen- Mrs. Sharman Hyde , CEO way Demonstration Corridor. tre for Peace and Develop- Hon. Rene Montero, Ministry of Finance and These patrol vehicles will ment, City of Belmopan, Belize. Minister of Works and Transport Economic Development be fully equipped with hand held Speed Radar Guns and portable n June 28, 2013, Hon. alcohol testing equipment, in Rene Montero, addition to emergency and inci- Minister of Works dent management equipment, and Transport re- such as traffic cones, reflective ceivedO two new highway patrol triangles, high-visibility jackets, vehicles from the Ministry of and base and hand-held radios.

CEO Hyde receives keys to Highway Patrol Vehicles from Israel Marin of Belize Diesel and Equipment Company Limited

CEO Sharman Hyde hands over keys for vehicles to Hon. Rene Montero, accompanied by Deputy Minister Hon. Edmund Castro Finance and Economic Devel- Additionally, in the opment’s Road Safety Project. near future a consultant will The Government of Be- be engaged to deliver a train- lize has received BZ$14,495,000 ing program in traffic law en- in loan financing from the Carib- forcement to 35 enforcement bean Development Bank (CDB) officers in the Department of towards the cost of the Belize Transport, the Police Depart- Road Safety Project and is con- ment, and the municipalities. tributing a further BZ$3,191,000. The Ministry of Finance According to data avail- and Economic Development able from the Ministry of is officially receiving the two Minister of Works and Transport Hon. Rene Montero and Deputy Health on Road Safety, Belize highway patrol vehicles from Minister Hon. Edmund Castro pose for a photo with the new vehicles New Brazilian Ambassador Amorim, presented his credentials June Statistics Show Further to the Governor General of Belize, His Excellency Sir Colville Young. Reduction in Major Crimes Ambassador Pires de Am- The figures are still above acceptable orim spoke of the two countries’ levels, but Comparative Crime Statistics lack of knowledge of each other, for June, 2013 show a continuing trend in explaining the need to “bridge the the reduction of major crimes countrywide. gap” since the nations share simi- There were 8 murders countrywide in June, 2013, as compared to 15 in June, 2012, a re- larities in their histories. For his duction of almost 50 percent. The overall part, the Governor General extend- H.E. Lucio Pires de Amorim and tally for January to June, 2013 is 59 murders, ed a warm welcome to the Ambas- Governor General Sir Colville Young compared to 75 for the same period in 2012. sador on behalf of the people of Be- As we said before, the figures are On Wednesday Morning, lize; and expressed his gratitude to still unacceptably high, but the downward July 3, 2013, Ambassador of Brazil to the Ambassador for his kind words trend is encouraging. Hopefully, it sustains. Compol Allen Whylie Belize, His Excellency Lucio Pires de of cooperation and friendship. Page 4 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

OverMaking 40 Young Good Men Graduate News from for Youth a ChangeCadet Corps uch too often ually and as part of a synchro- these days, when nized unit engaging in positive Belizean young and productive activity. men above the Hon. Herman Long- ageM of 13 make the news, it is in sworth inspected the ceremoni- not so positive ways, such as vio- al Guard of Honor constituted lent criminal activity—robbing by the recruits/graduates them- and shooting, or being shot and selves, after which the Belize killed. National Anthem was sung with How pleasant and wel- much gusto and pride. Brother coming it was this past week Fem then invited the blessings when the news we received of the Almighty upon the occa- about 44 such Belizean young sion and the graduates as they The March On by Graduates to begin the Commencement Exercise competing with other activities on the campus of the National and occasions perhaps consid- Youth Cadet Service Corps, lo- ered by some to be much more cated near the village of Gracie newsworthy, such as the pre- Rock, around Mile 21 on the sentation of awards to students George Price (Western) High- who had excelled in the Primary way. As the graduates, their fam- School Examinations (PSE), the ily members and invited guests honors at that occasion being awaited the commencement

Rafael Martinez, Police Press Eufemio Cruz (Brother Fem) Officer, Master of Ceremonies provided inspirational music men was that they had in fact made their ceremonial march successfully completed their from within the sheltering walls course of study and remedial of the National Youth Cadet training at the National Youth Service Corps onto the thor- Cadet Service Corps and were oughfare of life in our Belizean graduating, many of them with communities beset by the temp- honors! tations and pressures that have Mr. William Swan Jr. Mr. Dwight Tillett Sadly, and we don’t know become associated with adoles- Manager of the Institution exactly why, the event received CEO, Ministry of Sports & Youth cence and youth these days. very little publicity in the main- done by the Minister of Educa- of the official ceremonies, they Master of Ceremonies for stream media. Except for Love tion, Hon. Patrick Faber. This were served with inspiration- the occasion was Raphael Mar- FM, represented by the ever particular event, the Closing al songs by Brother Fem (and tinez, veteran media personality positive and inspiring Brother Exercise/Graduation for Intake his guitar), who has developed and Police Press Officer. As usu- Fem (Eufemio Cruz), we don’t 14 of the National Youth Cadet a reputation for easily wearing al, Raph (as he is fondly known) various hats, including those of did an outstanding job, keeping journalist, musician and pastor. the audience well-entertained The official ceremony even as he moved the program kicked off with an impressive along at a brisk and efficient march on by the recruits/grad- pace. uates, who gave the audience a If we might be allowed good display of the skills they a bit more commentary before had developed in military-like getting back to substance and drills aimed at instilling in them chronology of the program, we the discipline and teamwork found it just as fitting and wel- necessary to become good, ef- coming as the event itself, the fective citizens, both individ- Continued on Page 5

Hon. Herman Longsworth invited to inspect the Guard of Honor remember seeing any reporter Service Corps, which was taking or cameraman from the many place at the very same time, was organizations that crowd the being attended by Faber’s Dep- local media landscape in Belize; uty, Hon. Herman Longsworth, although, we must admit, we’re Minister of State in the Ministry not sure whether they were no- of Education. tified or invited to the event. The Graduation got un- Hon. Herman Longsworth, CEO Dwight Tillett and Allison Brown The event was no doubt derway shortly after 10:00 AM Mackenzie, Acting Director for the Department of Youth Services Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 5

OverMaking 40 Young Good Men Graduate News from for Youth a ChangeCadet Corps

Continued from Page 4 demic studies, practical train- ing, discipline, and all the relat- fact that the occasion had afford- ed activities in which the youths ed the Police Press Officer such were engaged during their time a refreshing break from his daily spent at the institution. routine of briefing the media on Guest Speaker for the oc- criminal activity which too of- casion, Minister of State in the ten featured young men such as Ministry of Education, Youth these, instead allowing him the and Sports, Hon. Herman opportunity to chair an event in Longsworth delivered the key- which they were being awarded note address. The Minister con- for their positive achievements gratulated the graduates and Continued from Page 4 in academics, practical train- wished them the best as they ing and discipline, the kind of celebrated their success at this remedial training, molding and particular juncture, and as they inculcation that is, in effect, prepared themselves to face the steering them away from a path challenges of life and to contin- that would more than likely lead ue pursuing their goals, wheth- to such criminal activity. er through work or further stud- The official welcome was ies and training at higher levels done by an able graduate, Le- of education. He commended

Hon. Herman Longsworth, Minister of State for Education, Youth and Sports delivered the Keynote Address at the Commencement Exercise

Leevawn Carpiso, Graduate Luke Ramos, Manager of Welcomed the Invited Guests National 4 H Center, Belmopan evawn Carpiso, and the opening the manager and his staff at the address was delivered by Mr. institution for having accom- Dwight Tillett, Chief Executive plished so much in the face of Officer in the Department of Francisco Rosales Krystle Chipman the great challenges faced, in- Youth and Sports. Youth Business Trust, Belize Youth Business Trust, Belize cluding the fact that resourc- In his address, Mr. Til- same youths could have been to fulfill the essential role it is es are limited. He declared his lett, a retired High School Prin- headed down were they not meant to serve. And he noted government’s commitment to cipal, Vice Principal and Gener- where they were today, having that the investments made un- increase and expand its invest- al Manager of Nazarene Schools been immersed in the positive derscore the commitment by ments in the institution, and who has over the years worked training and discipline they with young people in various have undergone over the past capacities and through various year at the National Youth Cadet institutions, remarked that the Service Corps. Mr. Tillett also march on by the graduates was outlined and recounted some for him a particularly touching of the significant milestones and emotive experience, as he reached and crossed in equip- couldn’t help contemplating ping the Institution, both in- what destructive paths these frastructural and capacity-wise

The Graduating Class of Intake seated during the ceremony

the Government to Education, he announced the decision by and to the reformation and pos- his Ministry to undertake a full itive development of our youth. review and restructure of the Manager of the National facility to correct institutional Youth Cadet Service Corps, Mr. weaknesses and the systematic William Swan presented a full The audience of family, friends and other invited guests report on the program of aca- Continued on Page 8 Page 6 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013 Faith Lift Is “A” for “Apples” or for “Abortion”?

surprisingly then, the Policy to find a way forward to ensure right. “Member associations” states that the Government is that young people get the nec- such as BFLA, provide sex- committed to maintain the ex- essary information to make in- ual and reproductive health isting law on the Medical Ter- formed decisions”. It further information, education and By Zelda Hill mination of Pregnancy (Crim- claims that these denomina- services, which include family inal Code Chapter 101 of the tional teachers “prefer to engage planning and abortion. IPPF Laws of Belize Revised Edition other agencies which they feel recognizes BFLA for offer- or most families 2000, Section 112) [Gender Pol- are better equipped to deliver ing “youth-friendly services” around the world, icy pp13-18]. this information” (pp 22-23). through which it relies on the expectation The Sexual and Repro- This disclosure begs the peer educators to do outreach of a new addition ductive Health emphasis in the questions: Which individuals activities in 12 schools in Be- to the family, a Gender Policy is a “red flag” and organization will be allowed lize. And since the Gender baby,F is a joyous experience since it has recently been ex- to enter our Primary Schools to Policy [promoted on the me- and an opportunity for fam- posed in Belize as a “smoke- teach SRH to our children? Will dia by the Executive Director ily-bonding; that’s the way of BFLA] now recognizes “ad- God designed it to be. But as “ olescents’ right to SRH ser- individuals and communities As legislation globally spreads the red vices”, will BFLA now extend abandon their belief in a Cre- carpet for anti-God and anti-family agendas, abortion services to our chil- ator and the Biblical declara- dren and without the knowl- tion of the personhood and the blood of innocent lives disintegrates the edge of parents? value of human life from the moral fabric of the world’s nations. And just in As legislation global- womb, the matter of whether case some expect the Church to surrender and ly spreads the red carpet for an unborn child should live or recant, we become even more convinced of anti- God and anti-family die becomes a divisive issue. agendas, the blood of inno- For many pregnant females our mandate...This war is against principalities, cent lives disintegrates the who may become despondent powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, moral fabric of the world’s na- and for various reasons find and against spiritual wickedness in high places tions. And just in case some themselves torn between the expect the Church to surren- desire to keep their unborn (Ephesians 6:11-12); therefore, every individual der and recant, we become child and the fear of the fu- must choose now to be a facilitator of evil or to even more convinced of our ture, abortion is being offered become engaged in the war against it.” mandate. Children will learn to them as a viable option. to say “no”, not only to sexual Here in Belize, policies screen” for the indoctrination our children be misled to be- temptation and to abortion and laws are being devised to of foreign values and the re-so- lieve that an abortion can be as but to all evil plans. Children, promote abortion as a safe cialization of our children. It easy as learning their ABCs and including adolescents, are option in our schools and to is arguable whether SRH’s aim that it has no physical, mental, uniquely honored by God for make it easier for our females, is to delay or encourage sexu- psychological and spiritual re- their humility, innocence and youths and even adolescents, al activity among our children. percussions? trust in Him. If anyone caus- to access legal abortions. It is planned that Adolescent The Belize Family Life es them to do wrong, it would One of the priorities SRH will offer contraceptives to Association is named in the be better for that person to of the Revised Gender Policy young adolescents such as the Policy as a provider of SRH be thrown into the sea with 2013 is to integrate Sexual and pill, condoms, intro-uterine de- services. BFLA is an organiza- a large millstone tied around Reproductive Health (SRH) as vices, emergency contraception tion in Belize, which is listed the neck (Luke 17:2). a national development activ- also called Plan B (a contra- as a “member association” and This war is against ity. It commits Government to ceptive to be taken after sexual partner of the International principalities, powers, the prioritizing the implementa- intercourse), abortion services Planned Parenthood Federa- rulers of the darkness of this tion of the SRH Policy (2002) and sex education - all without tion (IPPF). IPPF promotes and world, and against spiritu- and Strategic Action Plans and parental consent. SRH has now supports abortion services glob- al wickedness in high places to “increase access to repro- become a priority for our chil- ally, and fights together with (Ephesians 6:11-12), therefore; ductive health commodities”. dren through Health and Fami- “member association” for local, every individual must choose It states that the SRH Policy ly Life Education (HFLE), which national and global policies for now to be a facilitator of evil recognizes “adolescents’ right is already a part of our national the right to sexual and repro- or to become engaged in the to SRH services” (adolescents school curriculum. ductive health as a basic human war against it. are children between the ages The Policy also states of 10-19 who usually are still in that because there have been primary and high school). challenges, especially caused Another objective of by the teachers in Primary de- the policy is to “safeguard the nominational schools who have rights of women, men, girls indicated “their discomfort and Capital Weekly and boys to SRH information, lack of experience in discussing From the Heart of the Nation education and quality health sexual and reproductive health services that are affordable issues with their students”, the To the Soul of the People and accessible to them. Not Ministry of Education “plans Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 7

E AU Project Healthy Boosts Maternal Partnership! & Neo-Natal Healthcare Belmopan, June 28, 2013 providing ambulance ser- The Government of Be- vice for at risk or ill neonates. lize has with the European Health personnel will be Union and the Pan American trained to secure and ensure the Health Organisation (PAHO) stability of newborn vitals in the have launched the “Strengthen- first moments of life and four ing of critical maternal and neo- pediatricians will be trained as natal services in Belize” project. instructor certification for Neo- The project is co-financed natal Resuscitation Program. by the European Union (4.2 M Infection control plans BZD); PAHO (220,000 BZD) and in all hospitals with areas ded- Ministry of Health (1.2 M BZD). icated to maternal and new- The project goal is to born care will be strengthened reduce stillbirth and neona- under the project, benefiting tal mortality by one third and all mothers and infants utiliz- increase antenatal coverage to Gerrardo De Cosio, PAHO Representative; Doctor Peter Allen, CEO, ing institutional birthing facili- over 95% of the population. Ministry of Health; Jesus Baguena, European Union Representative ties, and procedure manuals for Thanks to this interven- fer from district hospitals to the The improved vaccine prenatal care and neonatal care tion neonates will have access to national referral hospital in both storage facilities will ensure will be developed using guides better conditions during trans- public and private organizations the lifetime of the cold cham- from United Nations agencies. providing ambulance services. bers, offer better protection The project aims at im- in case of natural disasters proving the quality of and access and reduce the risk of vac- to health services and infrastruc- cine potency loss due to un- ture for mothers and children safe conditions of the building. less than five years of age, with The national referral an emphasis on preventing ma- hospital, three community ternal and neonatal mortality. and three regional hospitals A new national vac- will be provided with medical cines storage facility will also equipment for maternal and be built on the site of the West- neonatal care including neo- ern Regional Hospital in Bel- natal incubator transportation. mopan and laboratory services PAHO will deliver train- Doctor Michael Pitts, Belize’s as well as storage facilities for ing to improve the skills of Dr. Natalia Largaespada-Beer Director of Health Services blood products will be provid- biomedical technicians and Technical Advisor for Maternal Ministry of Health ed at three district hospitals. emergency response team and Child Health, Min. of Health Ministry of Health Apologizes Takes Steps to Prevent Repeat of Unfortunate Incident

Belmopan. June 25th, 2013. has taken steps through the The Ministry of Health Public Health Inspectorate to deeply regrets the unfortu- manage the outcome of the sit- nate series of events over this uation. Disciplinary action has past weekend involving the been taken against persons re- delivery of a baby’s corpse sponsible, and psychological to the wrong family at the support has been offered to all Western Regional Hospital. parties involved. They have ac- Following the outcome cepted and the Ministry intends of an initial investigation, find- to do follow-up visits with them. ings indicate that there was a The Ministry of Health procedural error by staff mem- reiterates that this isolated case bers of the hospital. The Min- The Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan is being addressed and has tak- istry of Health expresses its en every necessary measure to sincerest apologies on behalf to the families involved, and confidence in our institution. ensure that there is not a repeat of the management and staff to the public for this breach of The Ministry of Health of this unfortunate incident. Page 8 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

OverMaking 40 Young Good Men Graduate News from for Youth a ChangeCadet Corps

Continued from Page 5 failure by some of the members of staff to meet and adhere to ac- cepted and expected standards of excellence, and to in fully dis- charge their responsibilities at

Graduates stand at attention with their National and Institution Flags as the Belize Anthem is played Trust were representatives of pline and confidence instilled in problems and are perceived to that institution which provided the cadets by the institution. be at risk of being drafted into for the recruits valuable train- The National Youth Ca- criminal activity. ing in entrepreneurship. det Service Corps is a 14 year old The goal of the Nation- Gregory Reyes, Graduate The Vote of Thanks was institution which recruits young al Youth Cadet Service Corps Delivered a Message in Song delivered by Cadet/Graduate men between the ages of 13 and is to provide the necessary in- Malik Zuniga who did so quite 17, some of whom are school tervention, remedial training, such a vital institution. eloquently and effectively, per- dropouts at various levels, and Also speaking at the cer- sonifying the proficiency, disci- many of whom have behavioral Continued on Page 9 emony was Luke Ramos, Man- ager of the Government’s long established Four-H Program, headquartered in Belmopan near the grounds of the Nation- al Agriculture and Trade Show. Diplomas and a number of certificates, medals and tro- phies were awarded to the grad- uates, being presented mainly by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, Hon. Herman Long- sworth. Also on hand to issue certificates from Youth Business Graduates receiving their Diplomas, presented by Minister of State Hon. Herman Longsworth

More Graduates receiving their Diplomas, presented by Minister of State for Education, Youth and Sports Hon. Herman Longsworth

Graduates receiving certificates for successful completion of Entrepreneurial Program conducted by the Youth Business Trust Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 9

OverMaking 40 Young Good Men Graduate News from for Youth a ChangeCadet Corps sis. On the weekends, they are Continued from Page 8 all required to attend Church. Graduates of and character development to As a part of their training enable the students to return to to become positive participants National Youth the regular educational institu- in the community, they partic- tions to complete their studies ipate, while at the institution, Cadet Service and pursue their careers as con- in community activities, such structive citizens. as the Tenth of September and Corps - Intake 14 At the National Youth Independence Day parades, the June 26, 2013 Cadet Service Corps, the recruits Love FM Parade, the Olympic undergo a full year of training at Run and various sports tourna- one of four levels, depending ments, including the annual La Alex Meza on their initial assessment and Ruta Maya River Challenge, in classification. There are two which the institution competes Anthony Hernandez PSE (Primary School Examina- in the Intramural Category. Anton Lewis Malik Zuniga, Graduate tion) classes, a High School lev- Manager of the National Armando Betancourt el class and a remedial class. Youth Cadet Service Corps, Wil- Delivered the vote of Thanks The cadets are all live-in liam Swan says the institution ean community, and the gradu- Brian Salina recruits enlisted from around already provides valuable skills ates of Recruit Intake # 14 have Carl Diaz the country, and their routine training in various fields, and earned our respect and recogni- Clayton Marin involves academic and practical will expand such training to var- tion. In this spirit, we grant each skills training, as well as mili- ious other fields as investments of them special mention, as we Daniel Bennett tary-style drills to instill disci- in the institution increase. reproduce, on the right, the full Darby Lucas pline. The work of the Nation- list of Graduates at the Com- Personnel from the Be- al Youth Cadet Service Corps mencement Ceremonies. Con- Darnell Lodge lize Defense Force are attached deserves acknowledgment and gratulations, Youth Men. The Darren Flowers to the program on a full time ba- support from the entire Beliz- entire Nation is proud of you ! Dave Rudon Delvan Mejia Elvis Crispin Emerson Duhaney Emmanuel Tush Emroy Flowers Ernest Muschamp Estavan Cus Francis Uk Gary Banner George Cucul Graduates receiving certificates of distinction in specific disciplines Glenn Lopez Gregory Reyes Guadeloupe Carrillo Henry Cowo Henry Portillo Jason Perez Javier Noralez Jesuiter Perez PUBLIC NOTICE Jesus Medina Jose Betancourt The General Public is hereby advised that the Third Quarterly Meeting of the Jovannie Mejia Belmopan Trade Licensing Board for the year 2013 will be held at the Offices Kevin Rivero Leevan Carpiso of the Belmopan City Council on Wednesday July 10, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. Malik Zuniga All applications must be submitted to the Belmopan City Council by Wednesday Paul Franklin Raheem Staine July 3, 2013. Any application received after this date will be subject to a Special Sean Stephens Meeting fee of $150.00. Selvin Crispin Clerk Shane Mejia Tyrell Flores Belmopan Trade Licensing Board Tyrone Flores Wassan Lewis Page 10 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Utilities Commission (PUC)

In exercise of the powers conferred upon it by the Public Utilities Commission Act, Chapter 223 of the Laws of Belize, the Electricity Act, Chapter 221 of the Laws of Belize, the Electricity (Tariffs, Fees and Charges) Byelaws, and all other powers thereunto enabling, the Public Utilities Commission (hereinafter referred to as “the Commission) hereby notifies the general public that it has made and issued the 2013 Annual Review Proceeding Final Decision (hereinafter referred to as “the Final Decision”) for the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL; the Licensee).

Summary of the Initial Decision: a) The Commission approved a Mean Electricity Rate (MER) of $0.4865 per kilowatt-hour, representing a 0.43% reduction in the MER (previous MER is $0.4886 per kilowatt-hour). b) The Commission approved various adjustments to Cost of Power, Regulated Asset Value (RAV) and other Regulated Values approved for the Full Tariff Period of July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2016. c) The Commission approved the following Tariffs to be applied for the Annual Tariff Period (ATP) of July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014:

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) Approved Tariffs for the Period of July 1, 2013, to June 30, 2014

Customer Class Service Type/ Rate/Tariff Consumption Block $/Mth; $/KVA; $/KWhr

Social 0 - 60 KWhrs 0.26 Minimum Charge 4.00

Residential 0 - 50 KWhrs 0.39 51 - 200 KWhrs 0.49 > 200 KWhrs 0.52 Minimum Charge 6.00

Commercial 1 0 - 50 KWhrs 0.39 51 - 200 KWhrs 0.49 > 200 KWhrs 0.52 Minimum Charge 6.00

Commercial 2 Service Charge 125.00 0-10,000 KWhrs 0.50 10,001-20,000 KWhrs 0.49 > 20,000 KWhrs 0.47

Industrial 1 Service Charge 125.00 Demand (KVA) 39.00 Energy 0.37

Industrial 2 Service Charge 125.00 Demand (KVA) 24.00 Energy 0.32

Street Lights Energy 0.55

Note: Due to the small reduction in the MER, the only Tariffs adjusted were those for the Social customer class. d) The Commission approved no adjustments [other than those referred to in b) and c) above] to any other previously approved Regulated Values, Mean Electricity Rates, Tariffs, Charges and Fees in any relevant Final Decision made for the Full Tariff Period (FTP) of July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2016.

Viewing of Final Decision: The Final Decision may be viewed in its entirety at the offices of the Public Utilities Commission at 41 Gabourel Lane, Belize City, or from a link available on its Website at www.puc.bz, which is currently undergoing maintenance.

Issued by the Public Utilities Commission on June 24, 2013 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 11

BelmopanSaluting Students the MVPShout Out of Lebron the NBA James Last Monday, June 24 a or more a college scholarship crowd of students from Primary through basketball, of course. schools in the Belmopan area That’s what AAU basketball is gathered at the National As- all about; all the college coaches sembly to show their love and in the country are going be at admiration for World renowned this tournament. It’s one of the NBA Basketball superstar Leb- world’s largest tournaments. ron James of the Miami Heat, There were ninety- who has just led his team to vic- nine teams that participat- tory in the NBA Finals, thereby ed in this tournament last securing his second consecu- year throughout the United tive NBA Championship title, States, and a few from Canada. Primary School Students shouting out the MVP of the NBA, Lebron James and for the Miami Heat Team And right now there are it’s third NBA Championship. Annual King James Tourna- no Belizeans that went to high The students were ment in Ohio played in April. school here that are now play- joined by Belmopan Area Rep- Earlier this year, a con- ing college basketball; there’s resentative Hon. John Saldivar, tingent of 15 junior Belizean not one in the states. So my himself a basketball enthusiast basketball players attended goal is to get at least one.” who has done a lot for Sports. the tourna- The students were or- ment. Back ganized by Bernie Tarr, Basket- then, Tarr ball Technical Officer with the explained National Sports Council. Bernie what is the is a US Citizen from Cleveland, ultimate goal Ohio, home of the Cleveland of the whole Cavaliers which was the club that exercise: Lebron James played for when he “The was first drafted into the NBA. number one Here in Belize, Bernie goal that we Tarr has been instrumen- have is to tal in selecting young bas- get one of NBA Superstar Lebron James, ketball players to attend the these players Hon. John Saldivar and Coach Bernie Tarr Page 12 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013 Prime Minister Dean Barrow in London Sunday, June 23, 2013 - Monday, July 1, 2013 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 13 Prime Minister Dean Barrow in London Sunday, June 23, 2013 - Monday, July 1, 2013 Page 14 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013 “When Will Change Come?” Remarks by Hon. Patrick Faber at PSE Award Ceremony (Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, Wednesday June 26, 2013)

exceptional performance! Join teachers they will confirm that like yourselves and to us adults. me in a resounding round of ap- their outstanding performance So, I ask you to continue to be plause for them. It is true that was to a large extent about the examples that you are by many, if not all, of these stu- being smart in setting goals and continuing to set goals, to plan dents may have natural ability working tirelessly to achieve how you are going to accom- that allowed them to excel. That them. They will tell you that plish them, and to work hard to notwithstanding, I am sure that you need to set goals for your- effect your plan to accomplish these students, their parents or self because, as you know, if you your goals. You have shown guardians and their teachers don’t know where you are go- that you can do this through will tell you that such perfor- ing, you may just end up there your outstanding performance mance did not come without -nowhere. on the PSE, and I am sure in effort. But they will also tell other areas of your life. Keep it How many hours, you that goals are not enough. up! Keep it up! Keep it up! Let days, weeks and months of As the saying goes: A goal with- no one or nothing side track preparation did they put in to out a plan is but a wish! Goals you! Let no one tell you that achieve these outcomes? You need to be backed up by plans you cannot achieve your goals; see, there are two kinds of and plans need to be backed you know you can once you Hon. Patrick Faber, Minister of ‘smart’ - there is the smart- up by hard work to implement plan and work hard for them. Education, making his remarks Furthermore, young la- at the PSE Award Ceremony dies and gentlemen, encourage Good Morning! I am so “It is true that many, if not all, of these students and help our peers to do the same; happy to be here this morn- may have natural ability that allowed them each one, teach one, as they say. ing as we honor students who As you move onto the next stage have excelled on this year’s Pri- to excel. That notwithstanding, I am sure that of your educational career, I mary School Examination. I these students, their parents or guardians, and want to encourage you to think am happy too, that for the first not just of academic or educa- time we will also be recognizing their teachers will tell you that such tional goals. Rather, as you go schools that have per- onto high school, it is very im- formed well and who have performance did not come without effort.” portant for you to begin to set shown great improvement ness which you naturally them. career and life goals. Let your over the past five years (since have, and there is the smart- These young ladies and career and life goals determine 2009). ness which comes from hard gentlemen we honor today what your educational goals To begin with, we rec- work and effort. And let ate perfect examples of this are. After all, an education is not ognize students who have me tell you that natural smart- approach - they set goals, just for its own sake, it is also for performed outstandingly ness is not a guarantee of suc- they had plans to support your full personal development on the national scale. These are cess. Often, you need also to such goals, and they car- and for your contribution to the the top 26 students. We normally have the smartness that comes ried out their plans through development of your country. recognize the top 25, but from hard work. Indeed, there their hard work. Again, let In setting your career

Siyun Ye, First Place, Bernice Vincent Hulse, Second Place, St. Nelson Esteban, Third Place, St. Jennessa Sierra, Fourth Place, Yorke Institute of Learning, Belize Andrew’s Anglican School, Cayo Andrew’s Anglican School, Cayo San Pedro R.C. School, Belize this year, because there are many who may not be as us once again give kudos to goals, it is important to think were several ties, we naturally smart as others but them, not for being natural- not just of what you would like are recognizing the top 26. who, through their hard ly smart, but for the smart- to be, but also of what your nat- The total points scored among work and effort, are able to ness that comes from goal ural talents and interests are. these top 26 ranged from excel sometimes to a great- setting, planning and hard Too often we are diverted away 78 to 391 out of 400 points. er degree than those who are work! To you students we hon- from our natural talents and in- These are really outstanding naturally smart but do not or today, I wish to implore you terests by peer pressure, social scores. put in the hard work. I am sure to continue upon this path. You perceptions and, yes, even pres- Let us all congratulate if you speak to these students, are a shining example to oth- sure from adults; yes, even par- these students for their really their parents or guardians and ers-both other young people Continued on Page 15 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 15 “When Will Change Come?” Remarks by Hon. Patrick Faber at PSE Award Ceremony (Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, Wednesday June 26, 2013)

Agatha Petkau, United Evergreen Alexandra Gibson, Humming- Alain Morris, St Andrews Zahara Zul, St. Andrews School, Belmopan, Cayo bird Elementary School, Belize Anglican School, Cayo Anglican School, Cayo Continued from Page 14 is not theirs alone. Indeed, hard to see the success of these for the success they enjoy today. ents. Too often we are so caught they will no doubt admit that young ladies and gentlemen I reiterate to you again up in the paper chase and social they have had a lot of sup- we honor today. Parents and that there is no substitute for prestige of higher and higher port - from their school and guardians will also tell you of having goals, setting plans and degrees and of certain profes- hard work for effecting those sions that we do not take the “It would be remiss of us not to also recognize plans to achieve your goals. time to think about what we Let us salute your parents or are very good at, what we like that the accomplishment of these young people guardians and your teach- to do, and with which we can we honor today is not theirs alone. Indeed, they ers for the tremendous sup- really make a contribution to port they have been to you. our communities and country. will no doubt admit that they have had a lot of Today, we are for the So, it is important that you set first time also recogniz- life and career goals and let these support - from their school and from parents or ing schools whose perfor- inform your educational goals. guardians, families and friends. “ mance has been outstand- It would be remiss of from parents or guardians, the goals and plans, the hard ing nationally. Let me put us not to also recognize that family and friends. The schools work and sacrifices they have some context to what we are the accomplishment of these will tell you how they too set had to put for the education of trying to do by recognizing young people we honor today goals, had plans and worked their sons and daughters and Continued on Page 16 North is Best in June - West is Best in 2013 Minister of National Security Presents Police Awards tion to Senior and in order Superinten- to further dent Joseph step up its efforts to re- of the North- duce crime in ernMyvette, Zone head and that zone. - Senior manding the Superinten- OrangeOfficer ComWalk dent of Police Formation; Aaron Guz- the $1000 hand to ac- ceptman the was con on- Compol Allen Whylie, Sr. Supt. Joseph Myvette Hon. Saldivar and Compol Whylie with Senior Supt. performanceCheque being gratulations and Minister of National Security Hon. John Saldivar Aaron Guzman & Western formation commanders for the best- from the Min- For the Third consecu- ister and Police Commissioner tive month, the Northern Zone by the North- and the Orange Formation of ern Zone and the Certificate of Of note also is that June, countrywide, as compared to the Police Department have reg- RecognitionThe forMinister the best also perfor an- Allen Whylie. percent.75 for the same period of 2012, istered the greatest reduction in nouncedmance by that the Orangethe Western Formation. Zone representing a reduction of 21 2013 saw a continuation of the comparative crime statistics performance throughout the the downward trend in major The award presentations- formajor the crimes,month of as June. confirmed by has recorded the best overall comparedcrimes as to the the total total number for June, of istertook placeand the on WednesdayCommissioner’s July Minister of National Se- June) and is therefore receiving murders in that month was 8,- 3, 2013, at the start of the Min first half of 2013 (January to- ing a reduction of 47 percent. presented a Cheque for $1,000 2012 which was 15, represent- Nationalmonthly meetingPolice Training with zone Acade and- curity, Hon. John Saldivar has- fromrecognition the Ministry of that performance a new vehi branch commanders held at the cle (Mahindra Pickup Truck) in The overall tally for Jan and a Certificate of Recogni uary to June 2013 is 59 murders my in Belmopan. Page 16 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013 “When Will Change Come?” Remarks by Hon. Patrick Faber at PSE Award Ceremony (Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, Wednesday June 26, 2013)

Jose Torres, San Jose Succotz Aaliyah Allen, Our Lady of Nelson Esteban, St. Andrew’s Vincent Hulse, St. Andrew’s R.C. Primary School, Cayo Guadalupe School, Belmopan Anglican, Receiving Lap-Top Anglican Receives Lap-Top Continued from Page 15 earned on the PSE. and economically. Further- precursor, our intent, as I these schools. Using this we have come more, some schools are small mentioned before, is to in- First, we want to give up with a scale that ranges from multi-grade schools, while centivize schools to improve credit where credit is due and Zero to Four (0 - 4). The high- others are large subject teach- either intrinsically or extrin- secondly we want to incen- er the school’s GPA, the better. ing schools; and, indeed, sically. Therefore, not unlike tivize, intrinsically or extrin- We will be using this GPA to there are many other dif- what I was praising the students sically, schools to improve. recognize the top 10 percent of ferences. As the old saying for a while ago - about setting Therefore it is the intent that schools, in various categories, goes, it is like comparing ap- goals, having plans and such recognition will motivate nationally and at district level. ples and oranges. And so, we putting hard work to other schools to improve so We will also be using the GPA can’t compare them to each achieve our goals. What that they too can be recognized; to recognize the most improved other and conclude that one is we want the schools to and secondly, for those who are schools nationally and district better than the other. We need to do is examine how they not so intrinsically motivat- level irrespective of category. compare each school with oth- are doing (not just on ed, the extrinsic motivation Let me quickly explain er similar schools for a fairer examinations, but on other as- of parental and public pressure the reason for categorizing comparison. pects of school performance), for them to improve will come schools. For too long, we have Therefore, that is why we to set goals and develop, and to bear. In short, we are cre- used the PSE (Primary School have categorized schools into implement school improve- ating a Name and Praise List ment plans. through this recognition, and Indeed, this has been the ba- the flip side of such a list is a “The Ministry of Education needs to analyze system sis of our Quality Schools ini- Name and Shame List. performance nationally to inform decision making tiative - that schools ask: How What we are doing is no and we need to provide support to and pressure on are we doing? How do we accident. This is the beginning know? And what are we go- of what we plan to be Annu- managing authorizes, on schools, teachers and even ing to do about it? That is, al School Report Cards (see patents to improve... We are calling all to action. Yet, that they self-evaluate, set our education sector strategy ironically and most recently, some are quick to lay goals, and that they develop on our website) that will be blame at the feet of the Ministry of Education for and implement school im- published for parents and the provement plans. public to see, so that schools this, pointing out that it is the Ministry’s responsi- Two weeks ago, we held a who are performing well, not bility for what happens in the education system. Yet press conference in which I, as just on examinations but also when we do take leadership in the exercise of our one media house put it, told on other indicators such as rep- some ‘inconvenient truths’. etition, dropout, etc, can be responsibility, the most resistance often comes from At some points during that recognized and encouraged to among the very groups with whom the Ministry has press conference, I prefaced continue doing well; and those consistently consulted and sought input from.” my remarks with the words, who are not, can be encouraged “and I know I am going to to improve, whether through Examination) to judge schools the following categories: get into trouble for saying their own intrinsic motivation in a way that we think is unfair. 1. Those who had 50 or more this”. And I proceeded to utter or the extrinsic motivation of For too long, we have concluded students sitting the PSE; my remarks. Well, ladies and parental and public pressure. (especially in the media) that 2. Those who had 25 to 49 gentlemen, it seems as though I So, we are beginning with the school from which the top students sitting the PSE; was prophetic. I do not mean to examination scores as one of performer comes or the school 3. Those who had 15 to 24 stu- make light of a very serious sit- the first elements of that Annu- with the most top performers dents sitting the PSE; and uation. Let me emphasize that al School Report Card that will is the best school. That could be 4. Those who had 7 to 14 this is not my intention at all. be produced by each school. true, yes, but it is not necessari- students sitting the PSE. Rather, I wish to reiterate the Therefore, using the PSE scores ly a fair conclusion to draw. Through this kind of main points of what l had to say we have come up with School You see, schools are recognition and the Annual during that press conference. I Grade Point Average based on not all alike. Their students School Report Cards do this not to provoke further the number of A’s, B’s, C’s, D’s come from different back- yet to be fully devel- reaction from anyone. I do this and E’s their students have grounds socially, culturally oped, and of which this is a Continued on Page 17 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 17 “When Will Change Come?” Remarks by Hon. Patrick Faber at PSE Award Ceremony (Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, Wednesday June 26, 2013)

Basket of Fruits presented as a St Andrews Anglican, Outstand- Margarita Martinez, Our Lady Ubantu Award presented to Gift to Hon. Patrick Faber ing Performance, National Level of Guadalupe Vice Principal Mrs. Barbara Thummalapally

Continued from Page 16 ucation for this, pointing out tance often comes from among sponsibility. So what are we to do? for the sake of clarity, so that that it is the Ministry’s respon- the very groups with whom When will change come? the message is not lost. sibility for what happens in the the Ministry has consistent- Ladies and gentlemen, Here are the main points education system. ly consulted and sought input with all of your support that I tried to make: Yet when we do take from. Indeed, it is as though and effort we persevere! 1. Schools and their Manage- leadership in the exercise of our we must ask permission each Education is ments and Proprietors need to responsibility, the most resis- time we seek to exercise our re- Everyone’s Business! take ownership for their perfor- mance and the quality of educa- PUBLIC NOTICE tion they are providing. Schools need to self-evaluate and de- Public Utilities Commission (PUC) velop and implement school improvement plans. Manag- ing authorities need to support The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) hereby serves notice that in accordance with the Water their schools in this and where Industry Act, No. 1 of 2001, Sections 15 and 19, the Commission intends to modify the license granted by necessary to apply pressure for the PUC to the Belize Water Services Limited (BWS) on March 22, 2001. improvement. Modifications to the License: 2. Parents or guardians need to be involved in the The PUC intends to modify Part IV (Authorized Services Areas) of the BWS License as follows: education of their children. They need to examine how the a) In the Corozal District Service Areas, by adding “Chan Chen, Paraiso and San Joaquin Villages”; school is doing; to support, and where necessary, to apply b) In the Belize District Service Areas, by adding “Caye Caulker, and communities along George Price Highway from Belize City to Mile 21, including Western Pines, West Lake, Mile 8, and Hattieville”; pressure, for the school to im- prove. c) In the Cayo District Service Areas, by replacing “Belmopan City and suburbs of Salvapan, San 3. Teachers’ Unions need to Martin and Las Flores” with “Belmopan City and all its suburbs”; promote and assist in profes- sionalizing the teaching ser- d) In the Stann Creek District Service Areas, by adding “The entire Placencia Peninsula from vices through helping to uphold Riversdale to Placencia Village and inclusive of Seine Bight and Maya Beach” the highest standards in the e) In the Toledo District Service Areas, by adding “Elridge and Forest Home Villages”. profession as any professional organization should. Reasons for the Modifications: 4. The Ministry of Ed- ucation needs to analyze sys- For Additions/Replacements: The Government of Belize, with BWS as Executing Agency, has entered tem performance nationally to into various loan agreements to fund expansion of water services to these areas and the Government of inform decision making, and Belize has entered into agreements with Belize Water Services to provide potable water and in the case of Placencia Peninsula Sewerage Services to certain other areas which have experienced water supply and/or we need to provide support to sewage problems over the past few years. Furthermore, BWS has also continued expansion of services and pressure on managing au- within its licenced services areas to reach to areas of continuing development. thorizes, on schools, teachers and even parents to improve. Comments: Members of the public may make written representations or objections with respect to the We in the Ministry of proposed modifications to the PUC no later than 25 July 2013. Education have had the mantra Please make submissions at the PUC Office at 41 Gabourel Lane, Belize City, via email to [email protected] that Education is Everybody’s or by fax to 223-6825. business. We truly believe this; and so it was in that vein that License Availability: my remarks were meant. We are calling all to action. Yet, The full text of the License granted to BELIZE WATER SERVICES LIMITED is available for viewing ironically and most recently, at the office of the Public Utilities Commission, 41 Gabourel Lane, Belize City. some are quick to lay blame at Issued by the PUC on June 27, 2013 the feet of the Ministry of Ed- Page 18 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

APublic Proud Officers TraditionHonoured for 25 Yearsof Serviceof Dedication

Mr. Anthony Fuentes, opening Gibson gave the Minister’s con- remarks were delivered by long- gratulatory remarks . time public officer and current In his congratulato- Chairman of the Public Services ry remarks, Hon. Gibson said:

Freya Parham August, Public Mr Anthony Fuentes Service Day National Committee Mayor of Punta Gorda t was a day of honor, As you look ahead to satisfaction and rec- the years leading up to your re- ognition as the Pub- Marvin Blades, President of Patrick Bernard, Chairman of tirement from the Public Ser- lic Service honored the Public Service Union the Public Services Commission vice, which is not far away for 69 of itsI dedicated officers who many of you, I leave you with Commission Mr. Patrick ‘Pat’ “Twenty Five years ago, many have served the Government a challenge: I challenge you to Bernard. Public Officers were just be- and People of Belize for 25 long make those remaining years the Mrs. Freya Parham Au- coming acquainted with the years, their service never broken most productive of your career. gust, Chairperson for the Public institution known as the Public for more than a year. Whatever you have contribut- Service Day National Commit- Service and beginning to under- It was the Eight Annual ed to date by the way of service, Public Service Awards Ceremo- make the remaining years count ny and Luncheon held on Friday more. June 21 inside the Social Securi- Much more is required ty Board Conference Facility in and expected of our Public Of- Punta Gorda Town, Toledo. ficers today, especially officers The event was held to co- like you, our honorees, who incide with the world-wide cel- have accumulated vast experi- ebrated United Nations Public ence over the years, and some Service Day which officially was of you who hold very important June 23, observed in Belize this public offices. year under the theme, ““Belize I congratulate you once Public Service: Facing the Chal- again and encourage you to put lenges, Embracing the Changes, your theme into action by fac- While Striving for Excellence ing the challenges, embracing and Professionalism”. the changes, while striving for The theme itself was excellence and professionalism. coined by a public servant, Happy Public Service Day!” namely Mr. Fredrick Morter, Featured Speaker for the employed at the Ministry of occasion was Miss Audrey Wal- Desi Girls Dance Group performing East Indian Cultural Dance Works, and chosen from among lace, Chief Executive Officer in many others submitted in a tee, who currently serves as Su- stand your place and role in it. the Office of the Prime Minister. competition which has become pervisor of Quality Assurance in Today, you are firmly es- In her address Miss Wal- a central feature of the annu- the Ministry of the Public Ser- tablished and should be able to lace remarked, “Today we are al observance of Public Service vice, gave an overview of the confidently speak on the part gathered to celebrate and hon- Day in Belize. Public Service Day & Awards. you are playing in the deliv- or those of you who not only The event got underway There were remarks by ery of service to our Country. responded to the call of public around 11:00 AM, the formal the President of the Public Ser- Yours is an important respon- service as a professional, but part of it featuring a number vice Union, Mr. Marvin Blades; sibility, and one that is taking who have dedicated your pro- of inspiring addresses and pre- and Minister of the Public Ser- on even greater importance as fessional lives to serving the sentations. Following greetings vice and Elections and Bound- our Country grapples with chal- from the Mayor of the Town, aries, Senator Hon. Charles lenges of development issues. Continued on Page 19

Bernard William Reyes Alicia Young Consuelo Alicia Aguilar Rosalva Blanco Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 19

APublic Proud Officers TraditionHonoured for 25 Yearsof Serviceof Dedication ication and professionalism ly performing at peak produc- throughout these challenging tivity. Managers should expect economic times. The chang- excellence from all employees. es we have already made, and Belizeans deserve nothing less!”

Audrey Wallace, CEO in the Senator Hon. Charles Gibson Officer of the Prime Minister Minister of the Public Service Continued from Page 18 ley, and Lady Lila Vernon and Government and People of Be- the Baymen’s Clan Band. lize; and you have done so with A room-full of Awardees and other Public Officers and Invited Guests The closing remarks a high level of excellence and were delivered by CEO in the professionalism. And so, I join those on the horizon are part The awards were pre- Ministry of the Public Service everyone today to express my of the continuous renewal and sented by Governor General of and Elections and Boundaries, deepest congratulations and ap- improvement of our institution. Belize, Sir Colville Young, As- Ms Marian McNab. Master of

Morning Star Group doing Mayan Cultural Medley Lady Lila Vernon and the Baymen’s Clan Band preciation to all of you. Although we face continuous sisted by Ms. Marian McNab, Ceremonies for the occasion On days like these, I am change in our organizations, Chief Executive Officer, Min- was well known Punta Gorda filled with hope and encourage- our important responsibilities istry of the Public Service and media correspondent and com- ment for the future of the Public and mandates remain. Elections & Boundaries. munity activist, Paul Mahung. Service; and I feel proud to be In today’s competitive On the lighter side of The official ceremony part of the team. While it is a world, ladies and gentlemen, the occasion, there was abun- was followed by a luncheon for time of celebration, it is also a a strong and high perform- dant entertainment featuring which every honoree was af- time for reflection and for look- ing public service is critical to a colorful lineup of musical forded the opportunity to invite ing forward. Belize’s success. We must be performances and cultural pre- one additional person. In conclusion, I want to able to deliver the best advice sentations. There was the Desi The idea of Public Ser- express my deep gratitude to to Ministers and implement Girls Dance Group who did an vice Day and the accompanying those public officers across the our mandates with excellence. East Indian Cultural Dance, the recognition of public officers Country who have demonstrat- To succeed, our Public Service Morning Star Group which pre- for their long years of service ed such a high level of ded- must be one that is continuous- sented a Mayan Cultural Med- Continued on Page 20

Dorla Cattouse James Thomas Cayetano Anna Williams Dennis Arnold Page 20 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

APublic Proud Officers TraditionHonoured for 25 Yearsof Serviceof Dedication The List of Awardees Consuelo Alicia Aguilar Martha Melendez Carla Alpuche Felicia Mencias Javier Alpuche Lilia Middleton Merlene Alvarez Marjorie Rebecca Moore Beverly Hendy Gallego Noel Harvey Dennis Arnold Phillipa Leonie Moore Service Award Ceremony and Valerie Arnold Ivan Mark Morris Continued from Page 19 Luncheon moves to a different Manuel August † Candelaria Saldivar-Morter and selfless contribution to the district. Last year the event was government and people of Be- held in Dangriga. The venue for Cordell Glenn Augustine Gareth Murillo lize first became a reality back next years’ Award Ceremony Benita Carmita Ayuso George Myvett Rosalva Blanco Humberto David Nabet Lennox Bradley Verna Neal Theresa Bradley Carolyn Obi Dorla Cattouse Michael Pitts James Thomas Cayetano Azenette Ann Pook Cristino Chan Bernard William Reyes Hilberto Lucio Chan Peter Clive Reyes Hilberta Fuentes Stephen Rivers Rossana Herstig Jacqueline Meighan in 2006, and has been observed has not yet been chosen. Beverly Hendy Gallego Paul Karl Schmidt, Jr. ever since. The build-up to the (Information for this ar- Tirso Eugene Galvez Miguel Angel Segura Official Day itself, Public- Ser ticle was provided by Ms. Ninfa vice Day, also now features a Matus, Chair person of the Pub- Emery Gill Vioney Sheppard Public Service Information Day lic Service Day National Com- Ellajean Louise Gillett Cardinal Smith which was held roughly a month mittee who currently serves in Sheryl Gillett Lorraine Smith Lisa Yvette Griffith Allorie Swift Diane Patricia Hall Dario Oscar Tapia Noel Harvey Audrey Michelle Tench Rossana Herstig Francis Thomas Mario Howe Ricardo Rafael Thompson Fenton Alexander James, Sr. Oscar Orlando Ulloa Tom Johnston Elvis Usher

Lilia Middleton Carolyn Obi Diana Locke Faye Usher ago in Belmopan and other cen- the Ministry of the Public Ser- George William Lotiff Allen Whylie tral locations around the coun- vice as Compliance/Customer Dalia Manzanilla Anna Williams try which have a sizable public Service Officer, and was the co- service workforce. ordinator of this year’s Award Robert Mariano Francisco Xiu Every year the Public Ceremony and Luncheon. Jose Marin Alicia Young Jacqueline Meighan Read Capital Weekly Online In Living Colour at : belizenews.com/CapitalWeekly

Continued on Page 18 Francisco Xiu Audrey Michelle Tench Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 21

CDB’s Basic Needs Trust Fund invests $19.1 Million for poverty alleviation in Belize

From north to south and east to west of Belize, the Social Investment Fund (S.I.F.) and the Caribbean Development Bank’s (C.D.B.) Basic Needs Trust Fund (B.N.T.F) continue to implement projects aimed at addressing the basic needs of poor Belizeans. The Government of Belize also provides counterpart funding for projects implemented under the BNTF.

The BNTF Program is a regional grant program financed by the C.D.B. for poverty reduction infrastructure and livelihood enhancement services. The program has disbursed over $189 million U.S. dollars throughout the region. Ten countries, including Belize, benefit from the current, sixth cycle of fund- ing known as BNTF6. In Belize, the BNTF6 is expected to be completed by the end of this year with 22 projects valued at $6.6 million dollars. The pro- gram continues to contribute to the national development of Belize through the provision of social infrastructure, including resource centres, schools, health clinics and access to water, sanitation, drainage and roads.

Since January of this year, S.I.F. completed 9 major projects valued at $4.6 million dollars under the BNTF while many other projects financed under the SIF 2 loan are nearing completion.

In the area of water and sanitation, water systems have been upgraded in Bella Vista in the Toledo District and Young Bank Village in the Cayo Dis- trict. Under this sector, a new water tank and pump house is under construc- tion in Santa Familia Village in the western part of Belize. Meanwhile water expan- sion is underway in St Mathews and Franks Eddy and Corozalito in the Cayo District. The water system for Corozalito, a small com- munity in the outskirts of Succotz Village also in the Cayo District, should be- come operational in the coming weeks. The water supply is also being ex- panded in Chan Pine Ridge village in the Orange Walk District. The plan is to con- nect the village to BWSL’s main distribution network in New Santa Familia Village 20,000 gallon tank From top to bottom: Drainage project under construction in Buttonwood Bay. Residents of Golden Haven enjoy the comfort of their new home. Orange Walk Town. under construction. BNTF scholarship receipts enrolled at Y.E.S.

located near the second roundabout in Belize City. The project area has a high In the area of Education, a new building was completed at St Edmund Cam- demand for proper drainage since it is below sea level and is subject to pion RC School in Teakettle village the Cayo District. Further south, the flooding during the rainy or hurricane season. school was rehabilitated In the area of Social Services, new multipurpose centres were completed in and ex- San Jose and Guinea Grass villages in the Orange Walk District while the resi- panded in dents of the Golden Haven Home of the Elderly in Hattieville Village now Silk Grass enjoy the comfort of their new home. A new mental health day care centre was Village in also completed in Belize City. the Stann

Creek Dis- In the area of skills training, 10 students of low income families are complet- trict. In ing their education at the Youth Enhancement Services in Ladyville while addition, a other students are pursuing a vocational career in various vocational institu- new building tions throughout Belize. is currently Renovated Silkgrass Methodist School, Stann Creek Dist. under con- As the BNTF 6 project steams full speed ahead towards completion, the struction at All Saints Primary school in Belize City, BNTF 7 has already been launched. Under this program $12.5 million dollars and a new eight class room building is nearing completion at the Orange Walk will be available for projects in the areas of Education, Water and Sanitation Technical High School in the northern part of the country. and Road Access and drainage. This figure represents an increase of 74% in

CDB funding under BNTF for Belize. This means more funds for the poor In the area of Economic Infrastructure, the third phase of a $3.0 million drain- areas of the country, with the poorest areas receiving the most attention. Imple- age project in Trial Farm Village was completed. This project has brought an mentation of projects under BNTF7 will start by the end of this year. All these enormous peace of mind to the residents of Trial Farm since prior to the pro- projects represent the Government’s and the Social Investment Fund’s strong ject they had to constantly evacuate their homes as a result of flooding during commitment to alleviate poverty in Belize with the assistance of our develop- the rainy season. A similar project drainage project is also underway in the ment partners such as the Caribbean Development Bank. Buttonwood Bay area of Belize City. Buttonwood Bay is a relatively new area Page 22 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013

June Issue Ministry of Health and European Union launch maternal and neonatal project Belize and Mexico discuss benefits in health The Ministry of Health medical equipment, The Minister of Health, who require Mammograms with the European Union strenghtening of infection Hon. Pablo Marin and would also be able to access (EU) and the Pan control plans and the CEO, Dr. Peter Allen met services at Chetumal American Health development of procedure with officials from the Diagnostic Center at the Organization (PAHO) was manuals for prenatal care Secretario de Salud de same price as Mexicans and pleased to announce the and neonatal care. Training Quintana it was agreed launch of a maternal and will be provided by PAHO to Roo, that the present neonatal improve biomedical Mexico last program where service technicians and month to pap smear slides project that emergency response negotiate are taken to will benefit team for at risk or ill access to Mexico for all mothers neonates. oncology processing will and infants services continue . utilizing The Minister of and also to maternal Health, Hon. Pablo discuss the progress of Agreements also included services in Marin welcomes the other service oriented co-operation and training hospitals partnership in this agreements. opportunities for bio across the Belize. project because it will not medical technicians in only benefit mothers and Discussions included Belize. Minister Marin and The project aims at newborns attending these developing a Memorandum CEO, Dr. Allen visited with improving the monitoring services but also health of Understanding to have the patients admitted at and evaluation of professionals that provide Belizean Paediatric Cancer both the Cancer unit and established prenatal and care to mother and babies patients access medical General Admission at neonatal services born or admitted to neonatal specialist attention in Hospital General before including the provision of care units in hospitals. Chetumal. Belizean women returning to Belize. Belize hosts regional meeting on Alcohol HIV Testing Day

Belize was host to the be culturally adaptable in the Belize for the second year Statistics show that for the sub-regional meeting on Caribbean context, to observed Regional HIV year 2012, there were 249 Alcohol integrate the Testing Day on June 28th, new HIV infections showing Policy policy in the 2013 across the country. that more men than women for National Non- The Ministry of Health are infected. The new English communicable collaborated with situation, according to the speaking Disease policy Scotiabank HIV Coordinator, countries and to discuss and the Dr. Marvin of the how to Belize Manzanero, HIV Caribbean effectively Chamber of Coordinator, held implement the Commerce highlights the from 25th policy. Esner and need for strategic -27th June, 2013. The Vellos, Director of National Industry. and targeted meeting was held to Drug Abuse Control Council Promoting interventions to support the development mentioned that the Belize HIV reduce the of an Alcohol Policy for draft policy will encompass Testing Day raises transmission of HIV and the Caribbean. Objectives many aspects including the awareness about the increase access to care and were to present and Liquor Licensing Act and important issue of treatment. discuss the incorporation of knowing ones HIV status. Testing sites included the current the Breathalyser into HIV testing and Scotiabank Parking Lot in progress regular use. The counselling programs Belize City and Belmopan. made, overall objective, provide an opportunity Orange Walk, San Ignacio challenges according to Mr. for HIV negative persons and Dangriga also had testing and Vellos is to reduce to receive support and booths in those towns. The opportunities the abuse of Alcohol counselling to stay total number of tests for the in Belize. Belize and negative and for the conducted was 1, 038 HIV development three other Caribbean infected person; it is a Rapid Tests. of an countries currently source to refer them to Alcohol have the framework treatment and care Ministry of Health Policy, to discuss ways to of a Draft National Alcohol programs. Belmopan develop a policy that can Policy. 822-2325/2363 Sunday, July 7, 2013 Capital Weekly Page 23 Miley Garcia Softball Action in Roaring Creek Last Sunday Moves to Belmopan This Coming Weekend bourel, while the losing ty narrow 2 runs to nil pitcher for Belmopan victory over the home was Dana Mae King. team, Roaring Creek’s Game Two fea- Grace Kennedy. tured an even more for Winning Pitcher convincing win for the for Camalote United was Esperanza Wolverines, Francine Salazar, while who defeated Las Flores Leandra Guy recorded Shooting Stars by a score the loss as Pitcher for of 14 runs to Nil. The win- Roaring Creek. Narrow ning Wolverines pitcher though it was, a loss is was Shareeni Soberanis; still a loss. the losing pitcher for Las The Miley Gar- Flores Shooting Stars cia Tournament contin- was Guadeloupe Chicas. ues this coming Sunday, And finally, in July 7 when the action Francine Salazar Game Three, Camalote moves to the Capital City Shadalee Ho of Roaring Creek Grace Pitcher, Camalote United United managed a pret- of Belmopan at the Mae Kennedy hits Francine Salazar There was tri- Gordon Sports Field. ple-header action this Game One will be past weekend in the played at 1:00 PM and Ismael “Miley” Garcia will see Ontario Reb- Softball Tournament in els going up against the Cayo District. Camalote United. In On Sunday, June Game Two, which is 30, the action moved to scheduled to kick off Roaring Creek on the at 3:00 PM, the home doorsteps of the Capi- team, Belmopan Cap- tal City. ital City Emeralds will In Game One clash with the Esper- played on the Roaring anza Wolverines. Creek Softball Pitch, We hope to the Rebels of Ontario bring you the results defeated the Capital of those matches in City Emeralds of Bel- our next edition. mopan by a score of 14 to 4 runs. Picking up (Information provided by the win as pitcher for Nadine Coye of Camalote United Camalote United’s Nadine Coey hits the Rebels was Jean Ga- makes a very important catch Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy’s Shadalee Ho Jerjett Thompson)

Myralee Ho of Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy Shanicka Anderson of Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy also gets a hit gets a hit offNadine Coye, pitcher for Camalote United off hit off Nadine Coye of Camalote United, but in a losing affair Page 24 Capital Weekly Sunday, July 7, 2013