Alda Ramos, a name synonymous with resilience and determination, has once again proven that no dream is too big to achieve. In 2024, Ramos captured national attention when she graduated with a bachelor’s degree while working as a janitor at the University of Belize. Fast forward to 2025, and Ramos has added another milestone to her inspiring journey—earning a master’s degree from Galen University. Today, she serves as a Counselor for the Gender-Based Violence Response & Investigation Unit within the Belize Police Department, a role that reflects her unwavering commitment to helping others. Ramos’ story is a testament to the transformative power of education and self-belief. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial strain, health issues, and balancing family responsibilities, she persevered. Her journey began in her thirties when she returned to school to complete her high school education. By the age of forty, she had earned her bachelor’s degree, all while working as a janitor for nearly two decades. Ramos’ dedication to her studies and her community has made her a role model for many. Her story continues to inspire not only her colleagues but also the vulnerable individuals she serves. As Ramos reflects on her journey, she emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people who believe in one’s potential. Her remarkable achievements remind us that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
分类： society
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Temperatures are dropping! A mass of polar air begins to influence the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is set to experience its first significant polar air mass of the season, with cooler-than-normal temperatures expected across much of the country starting tonight. Meteorological analyst Jean Suriel announced the development via social media, attributing the change to the influence of two cold fronts that recently impacted the United States. These fronts have caused sub-zero temperatures in several U.S. states and are now affecting the Caribbean region. Suriel highlighted that the fourth cold front has stalled north of the Caribbean, while another frontal system is advancing towards the area. Temperatures are predicted to drop notably between Saturday and Sunday, with Pico Duarte experiencing a frigid -1°C and Santo Domingo reaching a milder 20°C. Other regions, including Valle Nuevo, Constance, and Manabao, will also see significant cooling. Additionally, moderate to heavy rainfall is forecasted for the north, northeast, Central Mountain Range, northwest, and southeast due to a trough approaching the Dominican territory. This weather system is expected to bring heavy rains on Saturday afternoon, increasing the risk of flash floods. The trough’s effects will persist through Sunday and Monday, with periods of moderate rainfall continuing. Suriel reminded residents that the La Niña phenomenon is active, urging everyone to keep their umbrellas handy as November’s weather patterns unfold.
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Visserijsector onder zware druk door illegale praktijken en hoge kosten
Suriname’s once-thriving fishing industry is now grappling with severe challenges, positioning itself as one of the most fragile links in the agricultural chain, according to the Fishermen’s Collective. The sector is under intense international pressure to meet stricter standards for sustainable and transparent fishing practices, with Suriname being closely monitored. Illegal fishing has emerged as the most significant threat to the industry’s future, prompting repeated warnings from European buyers. They have emphasized the need for stricter enforcement to avoid potential export bans to Europe and other key markets. The collective has stressed that offenders must be held accountable, as the consequences of an export prohibition would be catastrophic. Europe and North America have placed Suriname’s fishing practices under a microscope, demanding precise documentation of catch origins and measures to protect fish species and habitats. Non-compliance, including illegal fishing or mishandling of protected species, could result in severe repercussions, such as export restrictions. Meanwhile, fishermen, processors, and exporters are struggling with rising operational costs, including fuel and electricity prices, while government support remains largely absent. Although the president expressed a positive outlook during earlier discussions with the new administration, tangible measures are yet to materialize. A recent meeting between the Fishermen’s Collective and the parliamentary committee on Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries highlighted critical issues, including maritime safety, licensing policies, outdated legislation, and the surge in illegal fishing. Despite the grim outlook, the collective remains hopeful, citing Suriname’s rich fishing grounds that can meet local food needs and contribute to economic growth—provided the sector is protected and managed sustainably. The collective anticipates that the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries will soon introduce clear policies to address current challenges and provide meaningful support to the industry, ensuring the responsible use of the nation’s natural resources for present and future generations.
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Weather forecast: Showers and thunderstorms will mark the weekend in the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) has forecasted a weekend filled with heavy rainfall, isolated thunderstorms, and mild temperatures across the Dominican Republic. This weather pattern is attributed to a nearly stationary frontal system located north of the country, combined with east/northeast winds and a trough at various atmospheric levels. On Friday, the east/northeast wind and the influence of a cold front will trigger passing showers in La Altagracia, El Seibo, La Romana, and Hato Mayor. Later, localized downpours and isolated thunderstorms are expected to spread to Monte Plata, San José de Ocoa, Monseñor Nouel, La Vega, Santiago, San Juan, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, and Elías Piña. By evening, rainfall will intensify, particularly in provinces along the Atlantic coast. Saturday is predicted to be the wettest day of the weekend, with unstable conditions due to the lingering cold front and an upper-atmospheric trough. Showers and thunderstorms will begin early in the morning along the Atlantic coast, escalating to moderate or heavy downpours in the afternoon, accompanied by gusty winds. The most affected areas will include Monte Cristi, Puerto Plata, Espaillat, María Trinidad Sánchez, Santiago, La Vega, La Altagracia, La Romana, Monte Plata, San Pedro de Macorís, Santo Domingo, San Cristóbal, and surrounding regions. Rainfall will taper off as night falls. On Sunday, the frontal system will weaken, transforming into a trough. While this will slightly reduce rainfall intensity, moderate downpours with thunderstorms and gusty winds will persist, particularly in El Seibo, Hato Mayor, Monte Plata, Sánchez Ramírez, San Cristóbal, and the southeast, northeast, north, and Central Mountain Range areas.
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‘Tinder Swindler’ Simon Leviev freed in Georgia
Simon Leviev, the infamous con artist whose exploits were chronicled in the Netflix documentary *The Tinder Swindler*, has been released from custody in Georgia after Germany withdrew its extradition request. Leviev, whose real name is Shimon Yehuda Hayut, had been detained for two months following his arrest on September 15 at Batumi airport under an Interpol red notice issued by German authorities. His lawyer, Mariam Kublashvili, confirmed his release on Friday, stating that the case against him was fully closed and that he faced no conditions, bail, or travel restrictions. German prosecutors had pursued Leviev over allegations that he defrauded a Berlin woman of €50,000 ($58,000) after meeting her on Tinder. However, the case was reportedly dropped due to a lack of evidence. Leviev gained notoriety between 2017 and 2019 for posing as a wealthy heir on Tinder, deceiving women into lending him substantial sums of money, which he never repaid. His elaborate scams, which included fabricated luxury lifestyles, bodyguards, and private jets, became a textbook example of ‘catfishing.’ The 2022 Netflix documentary highlighted the stories of his alleged victims, estimating that he defrauded individuals in Norway, Finland, and Sweden of approximately $10 million. Leviev’s release marks a controversial turn in a case that has drawn global attention to the dangers of online romance fraud.
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Regional Media Unite for “One Love Jamaica” Disaster Relief Mediathon
In a remarkable display of regional solidarity, Caribbean broadcasters are collaborating for the ‘One Love Jamaica’ Mediathon, a live fundraising event aimed at supporting Jamaica’s disaster recovery efforts. Scheduled for November 16th, 2025, from 2–6 p.m. Belize Time, the event will be broadcast across the Caribbean, including on Greater Belize Media in Belize, UWI TV Global, and member stations of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU). Viewers are encouraged to contribute, with all donations channeled through the Barbados Red Cross to aid in critical relief and rebuilding initiatives on the island. Organizers emphasize the event’s purpose as a testament to Caribbean unity, urging the region to rally behind Jamaica under the banner of ‘One Love.’ Major media partners, including CBC TV 8, Starcom Network Inc., Barbados Today, and Nation News, are supporting the broadcast. The mediathon invites Belizeans and the wider Caribbean to participate and demonstrate collective strength in times of adversity.
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Minister Requena Takes Aim at School Managements
As Oscar Requena prepares to transition from his role as Minister of Education to the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government, he has responded to recent criticisms regarding his tenure. Requena firmly denied allegations of disrespecting teachers, emphasizing his deep respect for the profession. “I have always held our teachers in the highest regard, being a teacher myself. I fully understand the daily challenges they face,” he stated. He also defended his handling of teacher salary delays, asserting that the Ministry of Education acted in good faith and that information was not misrepresented. “There was no misconstrued information. I stand by my previous statements,” he said. Requena acknowledged the delays but attributed them to systemic issues beyond the ministry’s control. “These are recurring, perennial problems that teachers have faced for years,” he explained. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the Accountant General, the Treasury Department, and the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) to resolve the matter. Requena also criticized school managements for their role in the delays, stating, “Managements have failed to submit necessary information on time, which hinders the salary processing.” Earlier this month, BNTU President Nadia Caliz threatened industrial action over unpaid salaries, but Requena downplayed the possibility, stating, “Industrial action is not on the table as we have addressed the issue.” He noted that ministry representatives have held numerous meetings with BNTU leadership to advance discussions. Regarding his reassignment, Requena expressed his willingness to serve in any capacity directed by the Prime Minister. “We serve at the pleasure of the Prime Minister, and I am ready for my new role,” he concluded.
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Bagga police station moves to another temporary location
The Barrouallie Police Station, which was temporarily moved to a house in Peters Hope in February 2021 due to the deteriorating condition of its historic century-old building, is now being relocated once more. This time, it will be housed at the Barrouallie Community Centre. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) announced that this move is part of its ongoing efforts to provide responsive and accessible policing services. The decision follows extensive consultations with local residents, who emphasized the need for a stronger police presence and easier access to law enforcement services within the town. The RSVGPF stated that the new location offers a secure and spacious facility, enabling officers to operate more efficiently while fostering closer community ties. The police force also revealed that plans are underway to construct a new, permanent police station in Barrouallie, which will further enhance policing capabilities in the Western Division. Additionally, the RSVGPF is advancing efforts to rehabilitate the Layou Police Station, which has been in disrepair for some time, with issues such as vegetation growth on the roof and sewage leaks. The relocation of the Barrouallie Police Station highlights a broader initiative to modernize police facilities across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, ensuring better officer welfare and improved security services. The RSVGPF expressed gratitude to the residents of Barrouallie and surrounding communities for their continued support and cooperation in building safer and more secure neighborhoods.
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APUA Nears Completion of Major Upgrades at Ivan Rodrigues Reverse Osmosis Plant
The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its efforts to modernize the nation’s water infrastructure. The Ivan Rodrigues Reverse Osmosis Plant, a cornerstone of this initiative, is nearing the completion of its mainline installation works. This ambitious project, executed in collaboration with the Seven Seas Water Group, represents one of APUA’s largest infrastructure investments in recent years. The upgrades aim to bolster water supply reliability, enhance water quality, and ensure long-term stability for residents across Antigua and Barbuda. On Thursday, key stakeholders, including Minister Melvin Nicholas, APUA CEO John Bradshaw, and representatives from Seven Seas Water, visited the site to witness the successful production of potable water from the upgraded system. Officials hailed this achievement as a pivotal milestone, signaling improved capacity and a more resilient water network. APUA extended its gratitude to its dedicated staff, the Seven Seas Water Group, and the public for their unwavering support and patience during the upgrade process. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to delivering robust systems and a sustainable water supply for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Kahleel Simon of Bolans Laid to Rest
The tight-knit community of Jennings came together on Friday to bid farewell to Kahleel Simon, an 18-year-old from Bolans, whose life was tragically cut short. Simon’s funeral was held at the Cedar Hall Moravian Church, where a somber service was conducted before he was laid to rest. His death, reportedly at the hands of a police officer, has left the community in profound grief and has ignited calls for accountability as investigations into the incident continue. Senator Dwanye George expressed his condolences, labeling Simon’s passing as “heart-breaking” and emphasizing the need for ongoing support for the grieving family and community. As mourners gathered to pay their respects, many voiced their hopes for both healing and justice, underscoring the collective desire for answers and closure in the wake of this devastating loss.