Community and Society
Local organization turns Sargassum into fertilizer
Every year Belize’s coast gets its share of the brown seaweed, better known as Sargassum choking its beaches and disturbing the tourism industry. Another issue with the brown algae is its foul smell as it rots on the shoreline. The influx of Sargassum has been increasing over the recent years. While little has been done to make good use of this invasive seaweed, a Belize City-based organisation-Belize Expressive Arts Foundation, has found a way to reap the benefits of the unwanted sea algae. They are currently conducting a pilot project turning stinky Sargassum into fertilizer for gardens.
Community and Society
Environmental authorities condemn handling turtle hatchlings; it is illegal and harmful for baby turtles
Videos and images on social media of people handling baby sea turtles have prompted the Belize Fisheries Department and the Hol Chan Marine Reserve to launch an investigation into this practice, which is illegal under the Fisheries Resources Act No. 7 of 2020. Observation of wildlife is encouraged, but without human interaction, as these creatures must follow their natural life cycle.
Community and Society
Rehabilitation of north Ambergris Caye road complete thanks to community effort
The rehabilitation of a section of the road in northern Ambergris Caye has been completed. The road, which was in deplorable condition, is now considered the finest on the island. The project initially started with the contributions of over 20 business and property owners. That number doubled as community members joined forces and, along with the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) and other partners, collected resources to renovate the road.
Community and Society
Nauti Crab’s Bartender Joseph Pate tops Belize’s National Bartender Competition
Bartender Joseph Pate of Nauti Crab Bar and Grill in San Pedro Town won Belize’s third National Bartender Cup held on August 14th in Placencia. Pate not only made La Isla Bonita proud but earned himself a trophy of recognition and the opportunity to represent Belize at the 24th Annual Pan American Cocktail Competition on October 13-18 in the city of Manizales Colombia.
Community and Society
Atlantic Bank Limited celebrates half a century of service in Belize
On August 16, 1971, Atlantic Bank Limited opened its first branch in Belize City, employing seven people at the time. This week the bank is celebrating its 50th anniversary and hosted a special event on August 16th where lucky customers walked away with fabulous giveaways, including a grand $50,000 prize.
Community and Society
Derricia Castillo Salazar out on bail after arraigned for Wounding
Retired Belize Defence Force Captain Derricia Castillo Salazar avoided remandment at the Belize Central Prison after meeting a $2,000 bail following her arraignment at the San Pedro Magistrate Court today for Wounding. Salazar is accused of stabbing a female in the face during an altercation around 2AM on Sunday, August 15, at a hotel in San Pedro Town.
Community and Society
Proposed bridge fees to be revised once again
The monthly fees for using the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge were to go into effect on Sunday, August 15th; however, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is reviewing them once more. The final and updated toll fees are now expected to come into effect on September 1, 2021.
Accidents & Disasters
San Pedro Lions Club collects donations for Caye Caulker fire victims
Following the August 10th fire in Caye Caulker, that left four families homeless, an outpour of support from the community, governmental and non-governmental groups surged. Help also came from San Pedro Town, where the San Pedro Lions Club collected an assortment of non-perishable food items, clothes, and a $1,600 cheque for the four families affected. This donation was delivered to the fire victims on Saturday, August 14th, when members the Lions Club visited La Isla Cariñosa.