Accidents & Disasters
Local authorities and island residents provide assistance to fire victims
A family suffered a devastating loss on November 19th when their property was deliberately set on fire in an act of arson. The blaze destroyed three houses, leaving the property owner, 47-year-old Sandra Isela Catzim, with an estimated loss of $200,000. In response, local leaders, residents, and organizations have united to offer support through fundraisers and direct assistance to Catzim.
Community and Society
Island Athletes Honored during San Pedro Township Day
On November 27, 2024, San Pedro, Belize, celebrated its annual Township Day with a lively ceremony at 5PM. This event marks the anniversary of San Pedro's designation as a town in 1984, highlighting its transformation from a small fishing village into a bustling tourist destination. The celebration, organized by the San Pedro Town Council, features various activities that showcase the community's rich heritage and growth.
Community and Society
Annual Turkey Trot raises funds for Hope Haven
San Pedro Town started the Thanksgiving celebrations with the sixth annual Turkey Trot, held on Thursday, November 28th, at Boca del Rio Beach Park. The 5K (3.1 miles) run or walk raises funds for the island’s non-profit organization and orphanage, Hope Haven.
Community and Society
Belizeans will be required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to the UK in 2025
Belizeans planning to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) in 2025 will be required to have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting January 8th. Applications opened on November 27th and can be completed through the UK government portal (https://shorturl.at/DhAeR) or the “UK ETA” mobile app. The ETA is required for short-term visits, including tourism, family visits, and business trips.
Community and Society
San Pedro Tourism Awards recognize outstanding island stakeholders in the industry
For the third consecutive year, several businesses that excel in the tourism industry were honored for their outstanding contributions to this vital sector in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Councilor Ernesto Bardalez organizes the annual event, known as the "San Pedro Tourism Awards. " Bardalez, along with Mayor Gualberto "Wally" Nuñez and Area Representative Honorable Andre Perez, presented the awards to the winners at this year's gala.
Community and Society
Flag Raising Ceremony organized by GBV Committee
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence commenced with a Flag-Raising Ceremony in San Pedro on November 22nd. The San Pedro Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Committee organized this event to raise awareness about the prevalence of gender-based violence in the community.
Community and Society
Doctor Love: Failing at school
Doctor Love is the islands, and possibly the world’s greatest authority on just about everything. The Doctor answers questions concerning any subject except religion or politics. Persons needing additional assistance or counseling should contact Family Services Division at 227-7541. The opinions herein are not necessarily of The San Pedro Sun. Write Doctor Love at PO Box 51, San Pedro Town, Belize, or email: [email protected]
Community and Society
Island Emergency Operation Centers demonstrate skillful response to Tropical Storm Sara
After Tropical Storm Nadine passed on October 19th, residents of San Pedro did not anticipate another weather system to impact the area in mid-November. While the hurricane season typically concludes at the end of the month, storms rarely form in November. However, this year was different, as Tropical Storm Sara emerged, bringing heavy rainfall and flooding to much of Belize, including the Cayes, over the weekend of November 17th. In San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) branch was activated to monitor the weather system. Shelters were set up, and the team remained on standby for any emergencies.
