分类： society

Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism at the USA Office, made a significant contribution to the Denis Bowers Rehabilitation Centre (DBRC) in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday by donating essential care items. The donation aligns with the centre’s mission to transform the lives of young men through holistic rehabilitation, education, and reintegration. Formerly known as the Boys Training School, the DBRC was relaunched in February 2025 under the motto “Building Brighter Futures Together.” Fenton, an Antiguan expatriate, emphasized the importance of giving back, stating, “What the DBRC is doing here is truly transformative. It’s not just about rehabilitation; it’s about restoration.” The donated items included personal care supplies, cleaning products, and vitamins. Randy Christopher, the Centre Director, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its motivational impact on both staff and residents. “Your support and words of encouragement go a long way in motivating our team and the young men we serve,” he said. During a facility tour, Fenton commended the centre’s comprehensive approach, which integrates education, wellness, discipline, and vocational training to prepare residents for societal reintegration. The initiative was coordinated by Angelica O’Donoghue as part of broader efforts to engage Antiguans and Barbudans, both locally and abroad, in supporting institutions that empower the nation’s youth.

Dear Editor, I recently came across a letter expressing concerns about the St. John Hospice, and I must say, it seemed more like an emotional outcry than a well-substantiated critique. As someone who experienced the hospice’s services firsthand during a deeply challenging time, I feel compelled to share my perspective. Five years ago, my family entrusted the care of a loved one to St. John Hospice, and we were met with nothing but compassion, dignity, and professionalism. The staff and management went above and beyond to ensure our loved one’s comfort and provided unwavering support to our family. While no institution is flawless, every concern we raised was addressed promptly and respectfully. The letter’s criticism of the mask policy, which has been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic, feels misplaced and, frankly, like an attempt to stir controversy rather than address genuine issues. It’s also important to note that St. John Hospice is a privately run organization, not a government entity. This distinction seems to have been overlooked, leading to unfounded accusations and a tone of entitlement in the original letter. Instead of publicly airing grievances based on hearsay, individuals with concerns should approach management directly. St. John Hospice remains a vital institution offering exceptional end-of-life care on this island. Rather than tearing it down, we should focus on supporting and strengthening its mission. Sincerely, A voice of perspective over outrage.

The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus marked a significant milestone on Thursday by awarding certificates to 432 graduates from its Life Long Learning Unit. The ceremony, held at the campus’s Assembly Hall, was graced by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, alongside university officials, families, and friends. Paula Lee, Head of the Life Long Learning Unit, highlighted the increasing number of graduates as a testament to Antigua and Barbuda’s dedication to continuous education and skills enhancement. Nickishia Carr-Ramkellawan, an employee of CARDI, emerged as the top achiever, having completed four courses with the highest average. Dr. Camille Samuel, the Campus Registrar, delivered an inspiring address, encouraging graduates to embrace the values of active listening, responsible action, and the application of their knowledge to benefit others. Notably, the ceremony also celebrated the achievements of 11 inmates from His Majesty’s Prison, who successfully completed the Seeds of Hope Programme through scholarships. With its 2026 programme already announced, the Life Long Learning Unit is urging prospective students to register early to secure their spots.

In a decisive move, Buckingham Palace has confirmed the removal of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor’s name from the roll of the peerage, marking a significant step in the formal revocation of his royal titles. The announcement, made late Thursday evening, follows months of mounting pressure surrounding Andrew’s controversial private life. This decision strips him of his “prince” title and necessitates his departure from his royal residence in Windsor. The dramatic statement from the Palace comes in the wake of renewed allegations in a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre, who claims she was coerced into sexual encounters with Andrew as a teenager—allegations he has consistently denied. While Giuffre’s brother, Sky Roberts, has expressed approval of King Charles’s action, he emphasized to the BBC that further investigation is necessary to address the gravity of the accusations. This development underscores the monarchy’s efforts to distance itself from scandal and uphold its public image.

Significant infrastructure improvements are currently in progress along Cooks Landfill Road, marking a pivotal step in the broader initiative to fortify the national road network. These enhancements are primarily focused on elevating safety standards, improving accessibility, and bolstering the overall resilience of the transportation system. The ongoing concrete works are part of a strategic plan to address long-standing concerns and ensure the road network can withstand future challenges. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of these upgrades in fostering safer travel conditions and supporting community connectivity. The project aligns with national objectives to modernize infrastructure and promote sustainable development. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed about progress updates and potential temporary disruptions as the work continues.