Clowns take to the streets of Bolivia to protest decree that could crush their livelihoods Clowns in Bolivia are protesting a new school mandate that cuts off the events where they earn a living. Clay County firefighters responding to brush fire in MiddleburgFake Instagram account created by high school students leads to former DCPS police officer’s arrest: report Read full article: Fake Instagram account created by high school students leads to former DCPS police officer’s arrest: reportLawmakers hope new law spurs affordable housing, but some leaders say it weakens local government controlGlynn County Police ask for community’s help in investigation after victim of assault last week dies Read full article: Glynn County Police ask for community’s help in investigation after victim of assault last week diesA clown shouts slogans during a protest against the government's ban on holiday parties at schools during teaching hours, outside the Ministry of Education in La Paz, Bolivia, Monday, March 30, 2026. A clown rides a unicycle during a protest against the government's ban on holiday parties at schools during teaching hours, outside the Ministry of Education in La Paz, Bolivia, Monday, March 30, 2026. A clown shouts slogans during a protest against the government's ban on holiday parties at schools during teaching hours, outside the Ministry of Education in La Paz, Bolivia, Monday, March 30, 2026. A clown shouts slogans during a protest against the government's ban on holiday parties at schools during teaching hours, outside the Ministry of Education in La Paz, Bolivia, Monday, March 30, 2026. Wearing full face paint and their signature red noses, the clowns gathered in front of the Ministry of Education in La Paz to oppose a decree published in February. The new mandate says schools must comply with 200 days of lessons each year — effectively banning schools from hosting the special events where these entertainers are frequently employed.“This decree will economically affect all of us who work with children,” said Wilder Ramírez, a leader of the local clown union, who also goes by the name of Zapallito. The clown told journalists that “children need to laugh” while his colleagues wondered out loud if Bolivia’s Education Minister had ever had a childhood. Clowns in Bolivia are often hired for school festivities to entertain children during breaks from their regular lessons. One such upcoming event is Children’s Day, which the country celebrates on April 12.says that celebrations will no longer be authorized during regular school days, though they can be held voluntarily on weekends. Government officials said they will take the clowns’ critiques into account when they make a decree for the 2027 school year.“This decree will diminish our income, and with the economic crisis the country is going through, our future looks increasingly gloomy,” said Elías Gutiérrez, a spokesperson for the Confederation of Artisanal Workers of Bolivia.Tailors who work with clowns and make dresses for children participating in cultural events joined Monday's protest as well as photographers who typically work school celebrations. The alliance of clowns, photographers and costume makers marched through the center of La Paz, blowing their whistles and setting off small fireworks.Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.Florida court shuts down online gift card business based in Ponte Vedra, imposes over $800K in finesDNA test connects Clay County Navy veteran to WWII POW missing for over 80 yearsSt. Augustine replacing downtown parking kiosks with cashless touchscreensHundreds participate in Jacksonville ‘No Kings’ rally against Trump administrationFlagler College students protest housing policy as seniors cite affordability, availability concernsGAME DAY ⚾🦐 The defending Triple-A National Champion Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp returnShould an HOA or property management company be required to post parking rules for visitors?Fights erupt at Palatka Junior-Senior High after field trip focused on mental healthMother of teen punched during arrest says officer went too far⚾️ Opening Day + perfect weather=the ultimate Friday night in JaxStudy finds most ‘Mayport Shrimp’ dishes served in Jacksonville area are actually importedNew ‘larger format’ Publix store in SilverLeaf features wine bar, expanded deli menu, custom pizzas