As part of Green Reef's commitment to serving the needs and interests of the local San Pedro community, it organizes events to involve school children, adults and visitors. These events are designed to foster both a sense of awareness and concern regarding the marine environment that San Pedranoes are so dependent upon.

(Article taken from San Pedro Sun vol. 11 no. 18)

Sun, sand and sea were the order of the day on May 6^th, 2001, as hundreds of people gathered at Mar de Tumbo beach for the 5^th annual Reef Festival. The impressive turn out was a clear indication of the local support for Green Reef's motto of conserving Belize's marine and coastal resources. A picture-perfect day blessed "Biodiversity: Our Island's Treasures"-the themes of this year's festival.

The Reef Festival once again served its purpose of educating the general public about the importance of preserving our natural resources. The various schools of the island presented unique models, displays and banners based on the festival's theme, in addition to displays by both the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve. Of course the festival would not be complete the touch tank, where children and adults were able to experience "hands-on" some of the magnificent creatures that inhabit our majestic barrier reef. Especially entertained wre the children with a variety of fun games, races, sand sculpting glass bottom boat trips and much more. Another "hot activity" was the beach volleyball tournament where many groups displayed their athletic techniques in an effort to win the title of "Volleyball Masters."

The San Pedro Lions Club was also present selling rice and beans and pastries while the festival committee was ever-busy "barbecuing the day away." Master of Ceremonies Ernest "Nasa" Caliz kept the crown entertained as did the talented dancers of San Pedro Dance Company. Souvenir T-shirts were on sale as a memento of this wonderful occasion.

Before the day was over, judges handed in their decision for best banner and display. The winners were:

Best Banner:
1^st place: Little Angel's Preschool
2^nd place: Maestro Reyes School of Knowledge
3^rd place: San Pedro High School
Best Display:
1^st place: San Pedro High School
2^nd place: LIFE
3^rd place: Island Academy

Green Reef 100 Coconut Drive, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize Phone: +501-226-3254 ext 243 Fax: +501-226-3264 Email [email protected]