In a significant shift in the retail and financial sectors, Standard Distributors, a prominent appliance and furniture dealer with an 80-year legacy, has been acquired by digital finance firm Term Finance (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited. The unexpected announcement marks the end of an era for the long-standing retailer, which will now relaunch as Standard Credit. Term Finance, already a key player in short-term lending across the Caribbean, will integrate Standard’s extensive hire purchase portfolio into its operations. The Trinidad-based conglomerate ANSA McAL, which facilitated the sale, confirmed that some Standard employees have been laid off, while others will be reassigned within the ANSA McAL Group. The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed. ANSA McAL emphasized its commitment to supporting affected employees through enhanced separation packages, access to wellbeing and financial planning services, and job fairs in Trinidad and Barbados this month. Term Finance’s Chief Operating Officer, Nicholas Farah, stated that the rebranding to Standard Credit signifies the company’s entry into the high street market, aiming to preserve customer trust while introducing innovative financial solutions. Term Finance, backed by major shareholders PointWest Capital and the First Citizens Group, operates across Guyana, Jamaica, and St Lucia, and recently acquired My Finance Grenada Ltd. Customers with existing hire purchase agreements will experience a seamless transition, with no disruptions to their payment schedules.
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Black River Hospital heroes plead for help
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which devastated St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, the heroic efforts of doctors, nurses, and hospital staff at Black River Hospital have come at a significant personal cost. Despite saving all 71 patients during the storm, many staff members now face homelessness, hunger, and exhaustion. Dr. Robert Powell, an emergency medicine resident, revealed the dire situation during a visit to the storm-ravaged facility. He shared that the hospital was left in ruins, with roofs torn off, wards flooded, and medical equipment destroyed. Beds, patient files, and furniture were scattered across the compound, leaving only a small section of the Accident and Emergency unit partially usable.
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Novella Payne Presented Grand Cross for Heritage Entrepreneurship and Community Service
For over 30 years, Mrs. Novella Payne has been a beacon of hope and dedication in Antigua and Barbuda, tirelessly serving the nation’s most vulnerable communities. Her exceptional contributions were recognized at the National Awards Ceremony, held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium during the country’s 44th Independence celebrations, where she was bestowed with the Grand Cross of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (GCH). This prestigious honor highlights her remarkable achievements in heritage entrepreneurship and community service. Payne’s impactful work spans multiple initiatives, including the Fines Institute Feeding Program and her outreach efforts with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. These programs have provided essential support—food, shelter, and personal care—to hundreds, particularly during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond her humanitarian efforts, Payne is the visionary founder of Grandma Aki’s Products, a venture that seamlessly blends entrepreneurship with cultural preservation. Her brand promotes traditional wellness through a sustainable line of natural Antiguan goods, empowering local farmers and preserving heritage. Her official citation lauds her enduring compassion, innovation, and integrity, stating that her efforts have “strengthened social welfare, supported economic growth, and inspired national pride.” Payne’s life and work stand as a testament to selfless service and the embodiment of Antiguan excellence.
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Premier Brantley Bids Fond Farewell to Cuban Ambassador, Commends His Contribution to Nevis
In a heartfelt farewell ceremony, Premier Mark Brantley of Nevis expressed deep gratitude to His Excellency David Rivero Pérez, the outgoing Cuban Ambassador to St. Kitts and Nevis, for his significant contributions to bilateral relations. The event, held at the Premier’s office, marked the conclusion of Ambassador Pérez’s four-year tenure, during which he played a pivotal role in enhancing cooperation between Cuba and the Federation, particularly in health and education. Premier Brantley highlighted the Ambassador’s efforts in facilitating scholarships for Nevisian students to study medicine in Cuba, emphasizing the lasting impact of his work. Ambassador Pérez, accompanied by Counselor Ivón Tomé, reflected on the strong ties between Cuba and the Caribbean, reaffirming Cuba’s commitment to continued collaboration. He also announced an expansion of Cuba’s scholarship program for 2026, offering additional opportunities for young Nevisians and Kittitians. The Ambassador’s visit included meetings with key officials, including Senator Jahnel Nisbett, Minister of Health, who praised the tangible benefits of the Nevis-Cuba partnership in healthcare. The event underscored the enduring friendship and mutual support between the two nations.
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Athena Alexander-Browne Honoured for Exceptional Service in Education and Community Development
In a momentous ceremony held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium as part of Antigua and Barbuda’s 44th Independence celebrations, Mrs. Alexandrina Athena Browne was bestowed with the Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM). This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional dedication to education and community development over five decades. Mrs. Browne, a revered educator and community leader, has been described as “a pillar of excellence in education and a beacon of service to her community and nation.” Her illustrious career includes transformative roles at Newfield Primary, Pearns Secondary, All Saints Secondary, and the Antigua and Barbuda International Institute of Technology and Hospitality Institute, where she mentored countless students with compassion and vision. Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Browne has been a driving force in community service, dedicating herself to supporting the elderly, empowering youth, organizing health initiatives, and serving faithfully at St. Philip’s Anglican Church. Her unwavering commitment to human development and moral leadership has left an indelible mark on the social and moral fabric of the nation. This national honor celebrates her lifetime of selfless service and enduring impact on Antigua and Barbuda.
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Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Graham Honoured for Distinguished Military Service
Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Graham has been awarded the prestigious title of Officer of the Most Precious Order of Princely Heritage (OH) in recognition of his exceptional contributions to national security and military leadership within the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF). The honor was bestowed during the National Awards Ceremony at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, a highlight of the nation’s 44th Independence celebrations. The official citation lauded Graham for his “exemplary service in the field of defence and national security,” highlighting his unwavering leadership, discipline, and professionalism throughout his distinguished career. Graham has been instrumental in enhancing the country’s security operations, elevating training standards, and improving disaster response capabilities. His command expertise and dedication have earned him widespread respect among colleagues and subordinates, while his mentorship has cultivated a new generation of skilled military officers. Described as “a model officer embodying courage, commitment, and patriotism,” Graham’s efforts have been pivotal in upholding the ABDF’s core values of service and integrity. This accolade serves as a national tribute to his decades of loyal service and steadfast commitment to safeguarding Antigua and Barbuda.
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“I Am TDC” Recruitment Fair
The much-anticipated ‘I Am TDC’ Recruitment Fair is set to take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6:29 PM. This event, organized by TDC, aims to connect job seekers with a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. The fair is expected to attract a diverse pool of candidates, from recent graduates to experienced professionals, all eager to explore potential roles within the organization. TDC has emphasized its commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive workplace, making this event a pivotal moment for both the company and prospective employees. Attendees will have the chance to engage with recruiters, participate in on-the-spot interviews, and gain insights into TDC’s corporate culture and values. The ‘I Am TDC’ Recruitment Fair underscores the organization’s dedication to talent acquisition and its vision for future growth.
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Gonsalves dismisses NDP’s latest proposals as ‘gimmicks’
In a fiery campaign event in Murray’s Village, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines lambasted the policy announcements made by Opposition Leader Godwin Friday, branding them as mere ‘gimmicks.’ Gonsalves, leader of the Unity Labour Party (ULP), criticized Friday’s proposals, which include a 50% duty reduction on vehicles for public sector workers with a decade of service, two annual VAT-free shopping days, a $500 ‘baby bonus’ for parents, and equipment concessions for creatives. Gonsalves dismissed these ideas as impractical and poorly thought out, citing examples from other Caribbean nations where similar measures failed. He particularly ridiculed the ‘baby bonus,’ questioning its feasibility and insulting its implications for women. Gonsalves also highlighted existing government programs, such as the National Insurance Services’ maternity grant and ongoing support from the Ministry of National Mobilisation, which already provide substantial financial aid. The Prime Minister further criticized the proposed vehicle duty reduction, estimating it could cost the government EC$76 million and create administrative chaos. He accused the New Democratic Party (NDP) of desperate attempts to regain power after nearly 25 years in opposition. The ULP, seeking a historic sixth consecutive term in the upcoming November 27 general election, emphasized its focus on forward-thinking policies like e-government initiatives and infrastructure development, contrasting them with what Gonsalves called ‘damn foolish gimmicks.’
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Broadcaster Darren Matthew-Ward Rejects PM’s Claims, Says Independence Should Unite, Not Divide
Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has been a decisive and strategic leader, with notable achievements such as his response to Hurricane Irma, the resolution of the Scotiabank issue, and the establishment of the University of the West Indies’ fourth landed campus. However, his approach to dissent and media freedom has raised concerns among citizens, including members of his own party and cabinet. On the nation’s Independence Day, Browne was accused of launching an attack on a fellow citizen who expressed views contrary to his own. This incident has sparked a debate about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in the country. The citizen, who was interviewed by a regional media outlet, emphasized the importance of an independent investigation into a recent procurement scandal and called for a more inclusive and respectful public discourse. The incident coincided with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, highlighting the growing dangers faced by media professionals worldwide. The Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda guarantees freedom of expression and the press, which are essential for a healthy democracy. Critics argue that Browne’s actions have a chilling effect on public discourse and call for a more civil and inclusive approach to governance. As the nation moves forward from its 44th anniversary of political independence, there is a collective aspiration for a healthier democracy and a more respectful public discourse.
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Veteran Nurse Claire West Honoured for Five Decades of Service
Nurse Claire Althea Frances West has been awarded the Grand Cross of the Most Illustrious Order of Merit (GCM) in recognition of her exceptional contributions to nursing and community development in Antigua and Barbuda. This prestigious honor was bestowed during the National Awards Ceremony at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, held as part of the nation’s 44th Independence celebrations. With over five decades of service, Nurse West has become a beacon of compassion and professionalism in the healthcare sector. Starting her career in 1972 at the Holberton Hospital, she served across multiple departments, including the Children’s Ward, Operating Theatre, and Casualty Department, earning widespread respect for her dedication and leadership. Beyond her clinical work, West has been instrumental in community health outreach and mentorship, shaping the next generation of nurses and advocating for excellence in patient care. Her enduring impact on public health and her unwavering commitment to the community have solidified her legacy as a cornerstone of Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare system.