Community and Society
Fundraiser planned for Belizean performer Marlyn Vansen suffering from Multiple Sclerosis
A barbeque (BBQ) fundraiser and telethon to raise much-needed funds to assist Belizean singer Marlyn Vansen suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) will be at the Battlefield Park on Saturday, January 29th, Belize City. MS is a disease in which the insulating covers of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged by the immune system. It has no cure, and symptoms can range from fatigue, seizures, pain, paralysis, etc. The treatment is costly, and anyone able and willing can help via purchasing BBQ or depositing in the following bank accounts: Atlantic Bank-David/Marcella Vansen #211-44-9832, David Vansen Belize Bank #91595-914-3204, Marlyn Vansen Heritage Bank #1213-301, and Cash App at $NIRVAGOR.
Community and Society
SPTC plans on tackling the island’s ongoing garbage problem
The improper disposal of garbage on the island has been a long-standing issue. There have been multiple clean-up campaigns in the past, but the problem persists. To continue tackling the problem, the new San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is embarking on an island-wide, extensive, and thorough clean-up campaign with the idea of involving all key stakeholders on the island. The SPTC's plan also introduces new regulations on the construction debris storage/disposal method currently practiced on the island.
Community and Society
Government presents new system to dispose of medical waste
A set of rules guiding to how properly get rid of medical waste now makes it illegal and fineable to dispose of it improperly. The Medical Waste Regulations ensure that medical waste is managed via improved storage, transportation, and disposal throughout the country.
Community and Society
Recent dog attacks prompt discussions of the Dog Act on the island
The situation with aggressive and abusive dogs in certain subdivisions of San Pedro Town is becoming a concern as residents have reported attacks on their pets while in public areas. Many of these injured pets have reportedly ended up at the Saga Humane Society for treatment. A recent incident in which a dog was badly injured by one of these aggressive dogs has prompted Saga to seek a meeting with the San Pedro Town Council and police, to look into the Belize Dog Act and enforce regulations that will make public areas (such as streets) safe for all pets.
Business & Economy
25 Caye Caulker residents’ complete sea salt production and seaweed farming training
On Wednesday, January 26th, a group of 25 Hicaqueños celebrated their completion of a diversification training, helping them with the skills to utilize the island’s resources for sustainable livelihoods such as the production of sea salt and seaweed cultivation. The program was made possible through the Ministry of the Blue Economy and Caye Caulker’s Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) chapter.
Community and Society
Hope Haven highlights the importance of understanding domestic violence and what can be done
Domestic violence has been an ongoing issue affecting communities across the globe. The recent events involving public figures, such as the case between the Leader of the Opposition (LOO) and his fiancée, leave no doubt that this issue affects everyone in society. In San Pedro Town, stakeholders have launched initiatives such as Hope Haven Children’s Home and the Hope Haven Domestic Violence Outreach Center to tackle this concern and guide victims safely out of unhealthy situations.
Community and Society
The majority of inadmissible COPA passengers returned to Panama, some sought refugee status
A group of 35 Venezuelan nationals, a Moroccan, and one person from the Dominican Republic traveling from Panama on January 18th on a COPA Airlines flight were found inadmissible to enter Belize. Attempts to return them to their last point of embarkation- Panama saw difficulties. The process extended to Saturday, January 22nd, when 21 passengers were returned to Panama via COPA, while eight sought refugee status in Belize. Several of the remaining persons, including children, could not leave the country after testing positive for COVID-19. These persons will remain (detained) at a hotel in Belize city at the expense of COPA Airlines. They will be returned to Panama as soon as it is safe to travel.
Community and Society
BTIA Hosts 36th Annual General Meeting
On January 20th The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) held its 36th Annual General Meeting via Zoom. In attendance was Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations; Director of Tourism, Mr. Evan Tillett; the Board and members of BTIA; other tourism stakeholders; and invited guests.