Preparations finalised for George Price tribute
One of the traditions of the September Celebrations is an event called “Tribute to Belizean Patriots.” This year is special, however, as thousands will gather at the Belize City Centre to honour a man who is much more than just a patriot. George Price, the Father of Independence, will be recognized tonight as a National Hero of Belize. The first ever award will be bestowed on Price by Prime Minister Said Musa. The event is being organised by Emory King.
Emory King, Organiser, Tribute to George Price
“Well everybody is busy as you can see. We had an event here last night and they’ve had to take down everything that they had up last night. They couldn’t do it last night because of the rain, so we are taking down all the things that were here and we are starting to decorate the stage for tonight’s great event, which as you know is the special tribute to the Father of our Country, the Right Honourable George Price.”
Jacqueline Woods
“It is the first time the someone will honoured as a national hero.”
Emory King
“That’s right, the law has been in effect, I think about 10 years, but nobody has been awarded the National Hero of Belize Declaration and the Prime Minister and the government have decided that now is the time to honour the Right Honourable George Price.”
Jacqueline Woods
“Because tonight’s event is a historical one, what should we expect?”
Emory King
“Well a great deal of praise for George Price, a great deal. 11 speakers, most of them are confined to 60 seconds. You come out, 60 seconds and sit down. But on top of that, we have 2 choirs, the Garifuna Choir and the Belmopan Choral Society. We have the Palotti High School String Ensemble, I think 12 high school students who play violin, cellos, double bass, and of course the presentation of the medal, a beautiful medal. It is just wonderful. It was made by internationally famous goldsmiths in England and flown out especially for this occasion. It is a beautiful thing and it depicts many scenes of Belize.
If you cannot be there in person, Channel Five will be carrying the tribute live shortly after the completion of this newscast.
