Tag:
Philip “Billy” Leslie
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.
Community and Society
14 Tropic Air Employees Certified as Tour Guides
A class of pilots and staff from Tropic Air received their certificates after completing the National Tour Guide Training Program. A brief ceremony was held at the company’s corporate headquarters, during which representatives from the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and trainer Philip ‘Billy’ Leslie distributed certificates to the participants. Fourteen department staff members undertook the course and can now apply for their Tour Guide licenses.
Community and Society
Graduate ceremony held for new San Pedro Tour Guides
A group of 43 islanders received their certification from the Belize Tourism Board after successfully completing the national tour guide training. A brief ceremony commemorating their achievement was held on Thursday, November 7th, at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The new tour guides, including several women, were joined by their families and friends to celebrate this significant milestone.