Community and Society
Formation of National Special Needs and Disability Committee
Recognizing the need to bridge a critical gap in its national emergency system, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO), on behalf of the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, and the Ministry of Health & Wellness, met on Friday, June 25, 2021, in the Belize City Council Caucus Room and formed NEMO's 15th National Committee, the National Special Needs and Disability Committee (NSNDAC).
Accidents & Disasters
Tour operator explains Ambergris Caye is a diver’s haven despite rare shark incident
Despite reports of a rare shark incident on Saturday, July 3rd, off Ambergris Caye, scuba diving continues to be a safe and enjoyable activity when visiting the island. This unfortunate incident, which can happen in any part of the world, is considered very unusual for these sites off the island that is frequented by diving tours.
Community and Society
San Pedro’s Almita Pinelo highlighted as Belize’s Wonder Woman
After making islanders proud for receiving the highest military rank- Lieutenant Commander of the Belize Coast Guard (BCG), Almita Pinelo is once again in the spotlight. For the month of July, the US Embassy in Belize has designated her as Belize Wonder Woman, recognizing her achievements.
Community and Society
Sir Barry Bowen Bridge still not fully rehabilitated; motorists asked to be cautious
In June, minor repairs were made to the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge by the Boca del Rio area. The repairs were to temporarily alleviate the bridge’s problems which included the replacement of some beams affected by corrosion. The ultimate goal of the local authorities is to secure funds and build a new structure. In the meantime, motorists, particularly those driving heavy vehicles, are asked to be cautious when crossing the bridge.
Community and Society
San Pedro answering the call to get vaxed; tourism sector leading by example
With the news that a variant of COVID-19 is in the country and infections are on the rise, the Government of Belize (GOB) launched a vaccine campaign urging as many Belizeans as possible to get the jab. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye islanders have answered the call, and several business establishments are informing the public that their staff is vaccinated.
Community and Society
Peace Corps Takes Steps to Return to Service Overseas
On June 30, 2021, the Peace Corps announced that it is a step closer to returning volunteers to overseas service. The agency will resume inviting volunteers to serve at posts that have met a comprehensive set of health, safety and security criteria.
Community and Society
Lobster season officially opens; island fishers busy at work
For all those lovers of the Caribbean Spiny Lobster, the 2021-2022 season officially opened on Thursday, July 1st. Fishermen in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, set sail early in the morning and hours later returned with a bounty of tasty crustaceans that were sold and delivered to restaurants. The opening of the season also signals another anticipated event on the island - the annual lobster festival.
Community and Society
Caye Caulker woman recognized as Fisher of the Year
This year’s fisher of the year is 43-year-old Maria Allen from La Isla Cariñosa-Caye Caulker. The veteran fisherwoman has been fishing for over 30 years. Her love for fishing was rightfully recognized by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism who awards outstanding fisher folks each year. Allen will receive her title as ‘The Fisher of the Year’ and $2,000 in cash and prizes.