As Hurricane Helene makes its way through the Gulf of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring two other developing systems in the Atlantic.
The first, a broad low-pressure system identified as AL98, is situated near the Cabo Verde Islands and is producing disorganised shower and thunderstorm activity. Conditions are favourable for gradual development, with an estimated 60% formation chance.
The second system, AL99, is a low-pressure area located off Bermuda. This system is currently producing storm-force winds. The formation chance for AL99 is low at 10% in the next 48 hours, with a slight increase to 20% over the following week.
This year’s Wellness Week is bringing together individuals across the nation under the theme, “Greater social cohesion, better health.”
The initiative highlights the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Caribbean and SICA region.
Karen Lewis Bell, representative of PAHO/WHO, discussed the theme on Open Your Eyes on Tuesday morning. She stated, “This is really about the importance of attachment, engagement, solidarity, individuals coming together to promote health and well-being; because we realise that when there is attachment, certainly our youths would be less engaged in gang violence and use of illicit drugs.” Bell added, “When communities get together, we support each other; there is a sense of belonging, and it does a lot for our health, not just our physical health, but our mental health as well.”
Robyn Faber, nutritionist for the Ministry of Health and Wellness, said, “Our focus at the Ministry is really to bring people together, look at programs, activities, and interventions that we can support together as a team, having healthy communities, healthy schools.”
This year, the ministry involved Miss Universe Belize, Halima Hoy, in its initiatives.
The ministry organised a series of activities across every district for Wellness Week, dedicating each day to a specific focus. Monday kicked off with a theme of solidarity, while Tuesday highlighted Disability-Inclusion Day, promoting rehabilitation for differently-abled individuals.
Today, Wellness Wednesday is centred on raising awareness of chronic diseases and STDs in workplaces. Looking ahead, Thursday will focus on early detection of cancer and family planning, culminating on Friday with “Better Together Friday,” which includes a Socathon in Belmopan to promote physical activity and community engagement.
At the 79th U.N. General Assembly, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo announced that his country would deploy 150 military police officers to support Haiti in its fight against violent gangs. This decision comes as the UN-backed mission, currently led by Kenyan police officers, faces challenges related to personnel and funding.
However, Arévalo did not provide details on the timeline for the deployment of the military police. Currently, there are nearly 400 Kenyan officers in Haiti, in addition to approximately two dozen personnel from Jamaica and two senior military officers from Belize who arrived earlier this month.
The mission aims to have a total of 2,500 personnel, with further contributions expected from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, and Chad, although the exact timing of their deployments remains uncertain.
Just days before her visit to Arizona, Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign office in Arizona was targeted in a shooting incident on Monday, September 23, 2024. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Monday, with police confirming multiple shots fired at the Democratic National Committee (DNC) campaign office near Southern Avenue and Priest Drive. Just over two weeks ago, former president Donald Trump faced two assassination attempts.
No injuries were reported. “No one was inside the office during the overnight hours, but this raises concerns about the safety of those who work in that building, as well as those nearby,” Public Information Officer Sgt. Ryan Cook said in a statement.
This shooting marks the second incident of criminal damage at the office in recent weeks. Police said that on September 16, the office’s windows were also damaged, possibly by a BB or pellet gun. The investigation is ongoing.
Hurricane Helene has rapidly intensified to a Category 1 hurricane this morning as it makes its way toward the Gulf Coast of Florida. It is projected to strengthen further, potentially reaching Category 3 status when it hits Florida’s Big Bend on Thursday.
As of this morning, Helene was located over the northwestern Caribbean Sea near Cozumel, Mexico. It had maximum sustained winds of 80 mph, according to the National Hurricane Centre.
Hurricane warnings are in effect between the Anaclote River and Mexico Beach, while storm surge warnings have been issued for areas including Tampa Bay. Hurricane watches are also in effect for Cuba and parts of Florida, alongside tropical storm warnings for parts of Florida, Cuba, and Mexico.
Today, Gilbert Winston Ellis, affectionately known as “Bertie,” marked his 108th birthday. Born on September 24, 1916, Ellis is proudly recognised as the oldest living man in Belize. Just two weeks ago, he was honoured for his significant contributions to the community at the Tribute to Belizean Patriots.
Reflecting on his longevity, Ellis told News 5, “I don’t feel bad. I feel alright for a hundred and eight.” He attributed his well-being to a lack of special dietary needs, saying, “I eat the normal food, and that’s all I could tell you. I don’t have no special food.”
In his younger years, Ellis made a name for himself as a talented cricketer, excelling as both a batter and bowler. He captained the Rovers cricket team from 1938 for four years before joining Sussex. Additionally, he became the first president of the Amateur Boxing Association and was inducted into the Cricket Hall of Fame. Even after retiring from athletics, he remained active in sports management, continuing to support the community he loves.
Today, Ellis lives independently on Nurse Seay Street in Belize City and remains remarkably active for his age. His daughter, Gloria Ellis, describes him as “a very independent man.” She shared that he enjoys his ritual of playing dominoes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Belize Government Lotteries Limited is warning the public about deceptive advertisements that misuse its official logo to promote lottery ticket sales via WhatsApp.
In an official statement, the company states, “Players are being asked to send a WhatsApp message indicating the numbers they wish to wager on and the number of pieces desired, along with proof of online payment, after which a picture of the ticket is provided to the player.”
The government lottery company states that “this method of sale… is not sanctioned.”
“We vehemently oppose and disassociate ourselves from any individual offering such service,” the company added.
They further advise that “without an official printed ticket, redemption of any prize winnings will not be guaranteed.”
The village of Santa Familia strengthened its disaster readiness with essential emergency response equipment from the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change and TaiwanICDF. The initiative is part of the Flood Warning Capacity Improvement for the Belize River Basin Project.
The equipment will assist the community with the impacts of the increasing threats posed by climate change and allow residents to manage natural disasters better and protect their livelihoods.
The new equipment includes emergency response kits, communication tools, and disaster relief supplies. The handover follows a training session held in March. This training focused on equipping the community with the skills to handle emergencies effectively.
Andy Palacio, born on December 2, 1960, in the coastal village of Barranco, Belize, was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose influence transcended borders. His journey from a high school teacher to a celebrated international artist underscores a life dedicated to preserving and revitalising Garifuna culture while promoting Belizean identity on the global stage.
Revitalising Garifuna Heritage
Growing up amidst the rich traditions of the Garifuna people, Palacio’s early life was steeped in the rhythms and melodies of Garifuna music. His return from Nicaragua, where he had been involved in a literacy campaign, marked a turning point. The exposure to other cultures deepened his appreciation for his own, fuelling his commitment to Garifuna traditions. Palacio’s pivotal role came with the rise of Punta Rock—a dynamic fusion of traditional Garifuna rhythms with modern influences like R&B and rock. This genre not only revitalised Garifuna music but also introduced it to a broader audience.
Palacio’s collaboration with the Original Turtle Shell Band and his subsequent work with Stonetree’s Garifuna All-Stars project demonstrated his dedication to this cultural renaissance. His efforts culminated in the highly acclaimed album “Wátina” in 2007, which showcased traditional Garifuna rhythms through a contemporary lens. This album, featuring contributions from other prominent Garifuna musicians, was instrumental in securing global recognition for Garifuna culture and language.
Pioneering Musical Fusion
Palacio’s innovative approach to music played a crucial role in bridging traditional Garifuna sounds with global musical influences. His experimentation with Punta Rock—a genre he helped pioneer—highlighted his ability to blend traditional Garifuna music with modern elements, creating a unique sound that resonated internationally. Albums like “Keimoun” and “Til Da Mawnin” not only solidified his reputation at home but also earned him accolades abroad.
The international success of “Wátina” was particularly noteworthy. Produced by Stonetree Records, the album was celebrated for its authentic representation of Garifuna music while integrating contemporary styles. The global acclaim that followed, including the prestigious WOMEX Award and the UNESCO Artist for Peace designation, underscored the significance of Palacio’s musical contributions in promoting Belizean culture worldwide.
Championing Culture and Education
Beyond his musical achievements, Palacio’s role as an educator and cultural ambassador was pivotal in his legacy. His early career as a high school teacher and his work with Cultural Partnerships Limited in England equipped him with a broader perspective on cultural preservation and promotion. These experiences informed his later roles as the head of the National Institute of Culture and History and a cultural ambassador for Belize.
Appointed Belizean Cultural Ambassador and Deputy Administrator of the National Institute of Culture and History in 2004, Palacio was instrumental in fostering a deeper appreciation for Garifuna culture and ensuring its preservation. His work with the National Institute of Culture and History involved not only promoting Belizean culture but also supporting initiatives that celebrated and preserved the country’s diverse heritage. His contributions as a cultural ambassador extended to international stages, where he represented Belize and the Garifuna people with distinction.
Celebrating Global Impact and Legacy
Palacio’s impact was not confined to Belize; his work earned him significant international recognition. His accomplishments include winning the “Best New Artist” award at the Caribbean Music Awards in 1991, receiving the WOMEX Award in 2007, and being named a UNESCO Artist for Peace. These accolades highlighted his role as a global ambassador for Belizean and Garifuna culture.
The success of “Wátina” and the subsequent awards highlighted Palacio’s ability to capture the essence of Garifuna culture and present it to the world. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and cultural advocates, demonstrating the lasting impact of his contributions.
Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges
Andy Palacio’s life was not without its challenges. His journey from a humble upbringing in Barranco to international acclaim was marked by personal and professional hurdles. His health struggles, culminating in his untimely death on January 19, 2008, were a tragic end to a life dedicated to cultural advocacy.
According to a press release from his record label, Cumbancha, Andy Palacio died in Belize City on January 19, 2008, of “a massive and extensive stroke to the brain, a heart attack, and respiratory failure.”
Despite these challenges, Palacio’s passion for music and cultural preservation never wavered. His personal journey is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of the arts and the importance of cultural heritage.
Palacio’s engagement with the media played a crucial role in amplifying his voice and the Garifuna culture. His television program, which featured Belizean artists and their work, and his theme music for Channel 5’s newscast were instrumental in promoting Belizean culture locally and internationally.
The media’s role in showcasing Palacio’s work helped extend the reach of Garifuna music and culture, contributing to its global recognition. This interaction between media and culture highlights the importance of platforms in cultural preservation and promotion.
Andy Palacio’s legacy is a multifaceted one. His life’s work not only revitalised Garifuna culture but also elevated Belizean identity on the world stage. As we remember him, we celebrate not just his achievements but also the enduring impact of his contributions to music and cultural heritage.
Belize City’s Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (PGIA) has come under fire as it earns the reputation of one of the region’s worst airports. Nicole Cord-Cruz, in a recent article in Island.com, said that while Belize is a “slice of paradise,” the airport experience is lacking. “The airport experience leaves much to be desired,” Cord-Cruz stated.
According to the article, Belize’s PGIA ranked fourth on Sleeping in Airports’ list of the worst airports in the Caribbean and Central America, though it has not appeared on the list in subsequent years.
Back in July of this year, Prime Minister John Briceño announced the coming of three new airports just over two months ago. At the twelfth annual North American, Central American, and Caribbean Directors of Civil Aviation Meeting, Briceño said, “The goal of our government, as stated in Plan Belize, our medium-term development plan is to expand the P.G.A., our International Airport, with a U.S. one hundred twenty-five million investment, to a new airport in San Pedro, a national airport next to PGIA to handle and to manage local air traffic, and a new airport in here down south in Placencia. All of them to be able to handle larger planes within Belize and, who knows, probably handle short regional flights.”
Chairman of Aero Dispatch Services, Kal Habet, said recently that PGIA’s project expansion is a ‘multi-phase project,’ with phase one completed already and subsequent phases underway to take effect. Habet cited the $250 million investment to overhaul the international airport to meet the growing passenger demands.
