Tag:
Philip “Billy” Leslie
Community and Society
Triple R expands Caye Caulker operations with new ambulance
The Rickilee Response and Rescue team (Triple R) expanded its emergency response capacity in Caye Caulker by adding a fully equipped ambulance. The island-based emergency team, which also operates in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, welcomed the upgrade, noting that it will significantly improve their emergency response on La Isla Cariñosa, where they previously relied on a golf cart.
Community and Society
ACCSD Calls for Transparency and Community Engagement on Hol Chan and Other Development Issues
A public meeting was held on December 16th at the San Pedro Lions Den to discuss concerns surrounding unsustainable developments and the management and protection of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. The meeting, which brought together tour guides, tourism stakeholders, and other partners from the tourism sector, was organized by the Ambergris Caye Citizens for Sustainable Development (ACCSD). During the gathering, members expressed concern that certain decisions by island authorities are threatening both the marine environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. The group announced plans to engage local authorities at a follow-up meeting scheduled for next month.
Community and Society
Concerned Islanders Offer Suggestions to Tackle the Causes of Traffic Accidents
Following recent traffic accidents in San Pedro Town, including one involving tourists, the local transport department is intensifying efforts to address some of the root causes of these mishaps. Concerned residents have also voiced their suggestions, offering solutions to deter reckless driving, careless behavior, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Accidents & Disasters
Fisherman Rescued After Missing at Sea
A San Pedro fisherman, Elbin Sanchez, was rescued on Monday, July 21st, after he went missing off the island's coast. His colleague, Abner Vargas, reported that they had gone fishing in a kayak when Sanchez was nowhere to be found.
Community and Society
Kids in Action 2025 Begins
On Monday, July 7th, the Youth Scuba Summer Camp, Kids in Action 2025, was launched at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium with the enrollment of children in the annual program. This summer initiative will offer participants training in scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and fly-fishing.
Conservation
BFFA and Stakeholders Fight to Save Key Fishing Flats, Including Cayo Rosario
On Monday, May 19th, the Belize Flats Fishery Association (BFFA) held a press conference in Belize City, calling on the Government of Belize to urgently intervene in the ongoing degradation of Belize’s vital mangrove forests, fishing flats, and other marine ecosystems. BFFA members and supporters highlighted their continuing opposition to tourism developments at Cayo Rosario, off the northeast coast of Ambergris Caye, and Sandfly Caye in southern Belize, projects they say pose severe environmental threats.
Community and Society
Hol Chan Marine Reserve Opens Marine Education Center
On Wednesday, May 14th, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve officially opened its new Marine Education Center, located on the ground floor of its headquarters in downtown San Pedro. The long-anticipated event welcomed a diverse group of attendees, including primary school students, representatives from the Belize Tourism Board, tour guides, local leaders, and specially invited guests. The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the education center to both guests and the public.
Police News
Two Charged for the Murder of Zinedine “Fish” Pinelo
Investigations from police on the murder of San Pedro resident Zinedine ‘Fish’ Pinelo, 26, have revealed that he may have intentionally gone to an area in Belize City where he was robbed and ultimately killed on Friday, May 9th. Police stated on Monday, May 12th, that they have detained two individuals in connection with this incident.