Community and Society
Saga Halloween virtual pet costume contest raises funds to spay/neuter and vaccinate 100 animals
On Sunday, October 31st, Saga Humane Society in San Pedro Town held their 17th Annual Halloween Pet Costume Contest. This year, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, it was held virtually, offering pet owners the chance the win fabulous prizes. The annual event also serves as a fundraiser for the non-profit organization. Thanks to everyone's participation and other donations, this year's function raised a little over BZ$10,000. These funds will help Saga in their campaign to spay/neuter and vaccinate 100 dogs and cats.
Community and Society
Kiefer Mes returns to Belize after representing the Jewel at COY16 in Scotland
Kiefer Mes, a 17-year-old student of Independence Village in the Stann Creek District, is back in Belize after participating in the 16th UN Climate Change Conference of Youth (COY) held from the 28th to the 31st of October in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom. Held before the annual UN Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties (COP), youth representatives from around the world meet to discuss climate change and how it affects young populations.
Community and Society
San Pedro mourns the death of Elder Alvarez
The community of San Pedro Town is mourning the death of a beloved resident, Elder Alvarez, who passed away on Monday, November 1st. Alvarez affectionately considered the ‘light of the island,’ worked for three decades with Belize Electricity Limited (BEL), and always ensured that island electricity issues were quickly addressed, whether due to natural disasters or technical hurdles. He will be dearly missed, and The San Pedro Sun extends its deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Community and Society
Proposed bridge fees go into effect this month
The toll fees for accessing the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge will go into effect this month. Many residents were expecting to show their pre-paid pass this morning, November 1st, when the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) first indicated this would be the effective date. However, the date has changed to November 15th, when personnel from the traffic department will be stationed at the bridge. Motorists who need to pay the toll to use the bridge can purchase pre-paid passes at the traffic department at the SPTC anytime between 8AM-5PM Monday through Friday.
Community and Society
Councillor Dianeli Aranda reaches out to the community during Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness month
Throughout October, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has been increasing awareness of domestic violence and breast cancer. Councillor Dianeli Aranda took the initiative to support those struggling with cancer with a care package. Aranda expressed that her wish is for them and their families to remain positive and hopeful.
Community and Society
Construction starts on new Caye Caulker clinic; San Pedro still waiting for hospital and new schools
On Wednesday, October 27th, the Ministry of Health and Wellness posted that the construction for the long-awaited health center in Caye Caulker had begun. The ground-breaking ceremony for the clinic was held two months ago in August. The new clinic in Caye Caulker is funded via a loan from the Caribbean Development Bank and will have an estimated cost of BZ$1.4 million. Plans are to complete it in nine months. In San Pedro Town, politicians have promised a hospital and school for years, yet the buildings have not come to fruition.
Community and Society
MOHW deploys mobile health team to monitor COVID-19 protocols in San Pedro Town
A mobile public health team from the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) is on the island throughout this week, providing COVID-19 tests at homes, educating people on the disease, and ensuring that established health protocols are followed. The team clarified that they are not part of the COVID-19 task force, which is expected to come into action on Monday, November 1st, in different parts of the country.
Community and Society
Crocs Sunset Sports Bar spearheads fundraiser to provide 1,000 Christmas meals, essentials, and toys
Crocs Sunset Sports Bar is determined to bring Christmas joy to the most in need in San Pedro Town for the second time. The goal is to successfully fundraise and deliver on December 22nd 1,000 plates of food, essentials (pantry bags), and toys to less fortunate children.