In a significant diplomatic engagement, Cuban Vice President Salvador Valdes Mesa met with Colombian Vice President Francia Marquez in Bogota, emphasizing the enduring partnership between the two nations. The discussions, which included Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Anayansi Rodriguez and Cuban Ambassador to Colombia Javier Caamaño, focused on the upcoming Summit between the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the African Union (AU). Valdes expressed gratitude for Colombia’s solidarity following the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa in eastern Cuba. Additionally, Valdes, who was in Bogota for the 4th Summit of Heads of State and Government of CELAC and the European Union (EU), held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Petro. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support and solidarity, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges.
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Caribbean governments continue tradition of supporting creatives at CARIFESTA
Two months after their triumphant return from CARIFESTA in Barbados, Saint Lucian designers and entrepreneurs remain filled with pride and gratitude. The event, a celebration of Caribbean culture and creativity, provided a platform for these artisans to showcase their talents and represent their nation on a regional stage. Their success was made possible through significant support from the Ministry of Culture and the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), which provided stipends, travel assistance, and other resources to ensure their participation. This backing not only enabled their attendance but also helped them stand out among their peers, sharing Saint Lucia’s unique spirit with the Caribbean community. Veteran designer Queen Esther of Kuumba Designs expressed her appreciation for the support, noting that the festival was a place to connect with fellow artists and present her timeless creations. Similarly, Christine Samuel of Christy Creations and Lisa Barton-Volney of De Kloze Line highlighted the festival’s role in fostering collaboration and expanding their professional networks. The event also benefited from broader funding initiatives, including the Mobility Assistance Grant (MAG) and contributions from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). These efforts underscore the importance of cultural tourism and the creative economy in the region, providing invaluable exposure for Caribbean creatives and helping them reach new markets.
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Man arrested for stealing Huggies Diapers and Cooking Oil
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has successfully apprehended a male suspect linked to a recent larceny incident at the First Best Supermarket on Bendals Road. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, when two individuals allegedly entered the establishment and stole a bottle of Hyundai engine oil, a bottle of cooking oil, and a pack of Huggies diapers. Following a swift investigation, authorities located and detained one suspect in the Gray’s Farm area, who is now in custody at the St. John’s Police Station. Efforts are currently underway to identify and apprehend the second suspect involved in the theft. The police have assured the public that further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
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Gray’s Green Club Marks Antigua’s 44th Independence with Star-Studded Gala in New York
The Gray’s Green Community Club of America commemorated Antigua’s 44th year of independence with its 16th annual gala on Saturday, November 8. Held at the newly inaugurated Westchester Majesty Event Hall in Mt. Vernon, NY, the event brought together members of the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora to celebrate their shared heritage and achievements. Under the leadership of President Keanna Appleton, the gala honored four distinguished individuals—Ms. Deborah Moore, Mr. Gregg Batchelor, Mr. Calvin Prophet, and Dr. Dave A.B. Ray—for their exceptional contributions to nation-building, patriotism, community service, and cultural preservation. A special presidential award was also bestowed upon Ms. Valda DeSilva in recognition of her unwavering dedication to providing school supplies for the children of Green Bay. The evening commenced with an invocation by Rev. Belgrave Pelle, followed by a keynote address from Ms. Temika Christian, principal of Green Bay Primary School, who emphasized the club’s unifying motto, “One Aim, One Community, One Destiny.” Musical performances by Nicole Rivera, who sang the American anthem, and Renee Airall, who performed the Antiguan national anthem, added a patriotic touch to the festivities. Mrs. Daphne Henry-Palma served as the Mistress of Ceremony, while Ke-Naudra Aska delivered the vote of thanks. The celebration continued with lively music by DJ Chalice and the Klymaxx Band, featuring local hits by Claudete “CP” Peters and the Burning Flames, creating an atmosphere of cultural pride and unity.
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Six Killed in U.S. Airstrikes on Suspected Narco-Terrorist Boats
In a decisive move against international drug trafficking, U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed on Monday that two additional airstrikes were executed against vessels suspected of smuggling narcotics in international waters. The operation, authorized by President Trump, targeted two ships linked to Designated Terrorist Organizations, both of which were reportedly transporting illegal drugs along a known trafficking route in the Eastern Pacific. According to Hegseth, the strikes resulted in the deaths of six individuals—three male narco-terrorists aboard each vessel. No U.S. personnel were harmed during the operation. Hegseth emphasized that these actions are part of the administration’s broader strategy to safeguard the homeland and eliminate cartel terrorists who pose a threat to national security and public safety. The strikes underscore the U.S. government’s commitment to combating transnational crime and protecting its citizens from the dangers of drug trafficking.
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PM Skerrit in Colombia to attend CELAC–EU Summit
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica is poised to join the CELAC-EU Summit, a pivotal gathering of Caribbean, Latin American, and European Union leaders, taking place on November 10, 2025, in Santa Marta, Colombia. The summit, hosted by Colombia’s President, aims to foster enhanced dialogue and collaboration among the participating regions. Key figures from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), including its Secretary-General, alongside representatives from the Dominican Republic and Cuba, will be in attendance. The European Union will be represented by prominent leaders such as the President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and the rotating EU Presidency. The agenda for the summit is expected to focus on critical global issues, including sustainable development, climate adaptation, trade relations, and international cooperation. In the interim, Honourable Cassanni Laville, Minister for Health, Wellness, and Social Services, will serve as Acting Prime Minister during Prime Minister Skerrit’s absence.
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Cassada Gardens Man arrested and charged for marrying two women
In a significant legal development, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged a 35-year-old man from Cassada Gardens for the offense of bigamy. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, is accused of entering into a second marriage on April 9, 2025, at Fort James, while still legally wedded to his first spouse. This act, which violates the nation’s matrimonial laws, was uncovered during a detailed investigation by local authorities. Following the inquiry, the accused was formally charged and is now awaiting his court appearance to address the allegations. Bigamy, the act of marrying someone while already married to another person, is a criminal offense in Antigua and Barbuda, punishable under the law. This case highlights the legal consequences of such actions and serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to marital laws. The accused’s court date has yet to be announced, but the case has already drawn public attention to the enforcement of legal standards in matrimonial matters.
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Man killed in Weston shooting identified
Authorities have confirmed the identity of the individual fatally shot during a violent confrontation in Weston, St James, over the weekend. The deceased, 26-year-old Doniko Avery Gaskin from The Garden, St James, lost his life in the early hours of Saturday, November 8. The incident unfolded around 1:30 a.m. when three masked, armed men approached a licensed firearm holder as he was exiting a business establishment. According to police reports, the armed men confronted the individual and opened fire. In response, the licensed firearm holder reportedly drew his weapon and returned fire, injuring two of the assailants. Gaskin succumbed to his injuries at the scene, while the other injured man was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for medical attention. Law enforcement officials are actively investigating the incident and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Holetown Police Station at 419-1700, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIPS (8477), or Police Emergency at 211.
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Dominican poet releases literary mixtape: ‘Feels like home’
Dominican author and poet Anella Shillingford has introduced her latest literary endeavor, “Feels Like Home,” a unique fusion of poetry, music, and memory. Described as a “literary mixtape,” the work delves into themes of love, healing, and belonging, offering readers an intimate and soulful experience. Shillingford’s collection combines poetic prose, free verse, found poems, and lyrical storytelling, creating a narrative that resonates like a heartfelt playlist for the soul. Inspired by her deep connection to Caribbean culture and soundscapes, the author employs rhythmic patterns and repeated motifs to evoke movement and emotion through her words. Shillingford describes the work as “nostalgia captured on paper,” likening it to a warm hug or a comforting cup of cocoa tea. Since her debut in 2019 with “Bonfire,” which explored themes of womanhood and resilience, Shillingford has continued to enrich Caribbean literature. Her second collection, “Of Rivers and Oceans” (2022), examined identity, nature, and love. Rooted in the rhythms and languages of the Caribbean, her writing amplifies Black women’s voices, memory, and the transformative power of words.
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LyricKsMan Hails Burning Flames’ Knighthood as a National Triumph
In a momentous event during Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Anniversary of Independence celebrations on November 3, 2025, the iconic soca band Burning Flames was honored with knighthood, marking a historic milestone for the nation. The group’s members—Sir Oungku, Sir Onyan, Sir Bubbi, and Sir Foxx—were celebrated for their decades-long contributions to music and national identity. Antiguan entertainer LyricKsMan of LSA Entertainment hailed the knighting as both a personal and national triumph, emphasizing its profound significance.
LyricKsMan, a prominent figure in the soca scene, described the band’s influence as transformative, shaping his musical journey from childhood. “Since the age of three, Burning Flames has been my band. Their rhythms raised me, their lyrics taught me, their energy inspired me,” he shared. He credited Sir Oungku, the band’s lead singer, as his “musical father” and mentor, praising his creativity and dedication to keeping Antiguan soca vibrant.
The entertainer emphasized that the knighthood was more than an award—it was a “national moment of truth” and a symbol of pride for musicians, dreamers, and islanders. He lauded Burning Flames as pioneers, teachers, and patriots whose impact extended beyond music, representing Antigua and Barbuda across the region and inspiring generations.
In a heartfelt tribute, LyricKsMan expressed gratitude to the band for their sacrifice, talent, courage, and consistency. “You are proof that when passion meets purpose, the world must listen,” he said. Concluding with a rallying call, he declared, “Long live Burning Flames. Long live Antiguan music. Long live JAM BAND—the fire that never out!”
The knighting of Burning Flames stands as a testament to their enduring legacy and the cultural richness of Antigua and Barbuda.