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  • Paperclips Gives Back

    Paperclips Gives Back

    A significant corporate-community partnership is making substantial strides in addressing animal welfare challenges in Antigua. The Antigua Spay and Neuter Clinic (ASNC) has announced the remarkable growth of its sterilization program, fueled by a sustained corporate partnership with Paperclips Ltd.

    Rachel Wood, President and Co-Founder of ASNC, publicly acknowledged Paperclips Ltd. for their consistent support during a presentation at the organization’s new clinic facility. The office supplies company has maintained a partnership with the clinic since last year, initially covering sterilization costs for five animals monthly. This commitment has now expanded dramatically to encompass one hundred surgeries each month.

    Wood emphasized the multifaceted impact of this initiative, stating, “While many perceive our work as solely benefiting animals, we’re fundamentally enabling communities to better manage and care for their pets through these crucial free surgeries.” She highlighted how corporate support directly addresses pet overpopulation while simultaneously enhancing quality of life for countless animals.

    The ASNC president issued a compelling call to action, expressing hope that additional companies would follow Paperclips’ example. “Having another ten or twenty corporations join this monthly contribution program would be transformative in our fight against this persistent challenge,” Wood added.

    Mark Layne, General Manager of Paperclips, confirmed his company’s ongoing commitment to the partnership and endorsed Wood’s appeal for broader institutional support. The collaboration represents an emerging model of corporate social responsibility specifically targeting animal welfare and community health initiatives.

    Contact Information:
    WhatsApp: (268) 736-2287
    Appointments: (268) 788-3647

  • Ciceron Secondary dominates at Schools’ Science and Technology Fair

    Ciceron Secondary dominates at Schools’ Science and Technology Fair

    Saint Lucia’s educational landscape witnessed an extraordinary display of youthful ingenuity as the National Schools’ Science and Technology Fair concluded with remarkable projects spanning environmental sustainability, technological innovation, and scientific discovery. Under the thematic banner “Igniting Young Minds to Power the Future,” the event showcased groundbreaking student-led initiatives that demonstrated practical applications of scientific principles across multiple disciplines.

    Ciceron Secondary School emerged as the fair’s most decorated institution, capturing the prestigious Best Overall Project award for their “Mathematics Disaster Management Online Program.” This comprehensive digital solution additionally secured top honors in the Secondary School Science and Technology category while earning both the Award for Innovation Excellence and the Motiellal Singh Award for Best Science and Technology Project.

    The competition revealed exceptional talent across all educational levels. At the primary division, Aux Lyons Combined School achieved dual recognition, winning both the Science and Technology category and Best Primary Project for their innovative “Crystal Palace: Glue Berry Hair Gel.” Environmental category distinctions went to Saint Lucia Sports Academy for their greywater sustainability research at the secondary level, while Bouton RC Combined School claimed top environmental honors among primary schools with their ornithological study “Birds of Bouton,” which also received the Outstanding Research Award.

    Post-secondary participants demonstrated advanced technological prowess with Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School dominating their category by securing both first and second places. Their projects included “Biocup Seaweed” and a sophisticated “Hand Gesture Controlled Wheelchair” system.

    Special recognition awards highlighted diverse scientific applications, with Micoud Secondary School winning the Food Science Award for their “Ripe Banana Gummies” and Lady Gordon Opportunity Center receiving commendation for their kombucha-based “Jupiter’s Drink.” Additional honors included Grand Riviere Primary School’s Outstanding Experiment Award for “Uniform Rescue” and Aux Lyons Combined School’s Allan Gabriel Award for Best Environmental Project.

    Chief Education Officer Beverly Dieudonne characterized the exhibition as profoundly uplifting, noting that participants from infant to post-secondary levels demonstrated exceptional ability to apply scientific thinking to real-world challenges. She emphasized that the fair represented more than symbolic aspiration but rather a tangible demonstration of student capability, stating: “This fair has truly demonstrated that the future is already in capable hands.” Dieudonne praised the students’ resilience and innovative spirit, declaring all participants champions while encouraging continued boundary-pushing experimentation.

  • Grenadians brace for rising food prices amid global tensions

    Grenadians brace for rising food prices amid global tensions

    Grenada faces mounting economic pressure as escalating global conflicts drive up fuel and shipping expenses, threatening to significantly increase food prices in the coming weeks. The import-dependent Caribbean nation stands particularly vulnerable to international market fluctuations, with rising costs expected to directly impact household budgets already stretched to their limits.

    Economic Development Minister Lennox Andrews acknowledged the widespread economic implications, emphasizing fuel prices’ central role in creating ripple effects across all sectors. “Increase in fuel cost will have a ripple effect across the economy, leading to higher costs for goods and services,” Andrews stated during a recent press conference in St. George’s. The minister highlighted domestic production as a critical buffer against external shocks, pointing to the government’s Food Security Programme as a strategic initiative to enhance local agricultural output.

    Opposition voices had sounded warnings prior to the government’s address. Peter David, political leader of the Democratic People’s Movement, advocated for substantial farming subsidies to strengthen local agriculture systems. “Meaningful subsidy to our farming community” represents essential preparation for cushioning against global price surges, David argued as international tensions intensified.

    Labor representatives expressed concerns extending beyond economic measures. Andre Lewis, President of Grenada Trades Union Council’s Management Committee, cautioned that financial strain on workers could deteriorate the nation’s “social outlook” and potentially provoke civil unrest. Lewis urged employers to prioritize humanitarian considerations over profit margins during the emerging crisis.

    Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre had previously raised alarms regarding living costs, advocating for policy interventions including Price Control List expansion for essential items, water levy elimination, VAT reduction on electricity, and specialized support for fisheries. Pierre attributed part of the economic pressure to government spending inefficiencies creating what she termed a “hidden tax” affecting households and businesses throughout Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

    With global uncertainty persisting, Grenadians confront the prospect of continuously climbing prices with limited control over the ultimate economic impact. Families already managing tight budgets now face additional adjustments to maintain basic living standards.

  • Bulls and Cavs in winners’ row

    Bulls and Cavs in winners’ row

    The Barbados Amateur Basketball Association’s Premier League made a spectacular return on Wednesday night, featuring two lopsided contests that highlighted the competitive divide in the league. In the opening matchup, Fusion Boutique Station Hill Cavaliers delivered a commanding performance, demolishing NSC Tridents with a final score of 101-61 at the Barbados Community College. Deveron Knight emerged as the undisputed star of the game, pouring in a game-high 37 points to lead the Cavaliers’ offensive onslaught. He received significant support from Gavin Philips, who added 20 points, and Saeed Norville, who contributed 15 points to the decisive victory.

    The NSC Tridents struggled to find their rhythm against the Cavaliers’ formidable defense. Issac Griffith managed to lead his team’s scoring effort with 10 points, while teammates Zane Gaskin and Bronson Gibson-D’ermo each added 9 points in a losing effort.

    The evening’s second game saw the defending league champions, Burger King Clapham Bulls, continue their dominant season with a convincing 108-88 win over Premiumfit Bears. Rasheed Maynard continued his impressive campaign, leading all scorers with 28 points. The Bulls demonstrated their depth with Akeem Marsh contributing 14 points, while both Andrew Ifill and Simeon Maynard added 12 points apiece to the balanced offensive attack.

    Despite the loss, Premiumfit Bears saw strong individual performances from Mark Bridgeman, who scored a team-high 26 points, and Antoine Winter, who added 18 points to the scoreboard. The resumption of play marked an exciting return to basketball action in Barbados, setting the stage for the remainder of the Premier League season.

  • XPRESSIONZ unveils ‘The Ultimate Beach Fiesta’ for Carnival

    XPRESSIONZ unveils ‘The Ultimate Beach Fiesta’ for Carnival

    The renowned XPRESSIONZ Carnival Band has officially revealed its ambitious 2026 presentation titled ‘SPLISH SPLASH – The Ultimate Beach Fiesta,’ setting the stage for a transformative Caribbean cultural experience. This innovative concept transcends traditional carnival celebrations by weaving together vibrant festivity with profound cultural narrative and ecological consciousness.

    According to the band’s creative directors, the theme represents far more than mere roadside entertainment—it constitutes a dynamic tribute to maritime heritage, a unifying cultural movement, and an artistic wave promoting environmental stewardship. The immersive experience transforms the shoreline into a living tapestry where color, music, and movement converge from sunrise to moonlight.

    Rooted in historical significance and ancestral memory, the production honors the Caribbean’s intrinsic relationship with the ocean while acknowledging the generations guided by tidal rhythms. Organizers emphasize the dual nature of the presentation as both celebration and educational storytelling, designed to foster appreciation for cultural legacy while inspiring responsibility toward marine conservation.

    The band’s narrative will unfold through seven meticulously crafted sections, each representing a distinct chapter in the ocean’s story:

    – ‘Morning Rhythm’ embodies the tranquil promise of dawn, symbolizing humanity’s primordial connection to the sea
    – ‘Heatwave Pulse’ delivers explosive energy reflecting carnival’s joy while acknowledging climate change realities
    – ‘Sunset Glow’ offers contemplative moments highlighting the ocean’s delicate beauty
    – ‘Moonlit Mystery’ explores the sea’s hidden depths and threatened marine ecosystems
    – ‘High Moon Revelry’ channels historical resilience, drawing inspiration from enslaved Africans who found liberation through rhythm
    – ‘Waves of Creation’ focuses on oceanic renewal and environmental stewardship
    – ‘Ancestral Tide’ completes the cyclical journey, connecting past, present, and future generations

    This architectural approach represents what the band terms ‘Advo’ Mas in motion’—a revolutionary form of masquerade that simultaneously entertains, educates, and activates participants. The complete experience mirrors the full diurnal cycle, balancing pleasure with purpose, and celebration with conservation, ultimately positioning the ocean as the central protagonist in this culturally significant production.

  • Randy Baltimore elected Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly

    Randy Baltimore elected Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly

    In a significant parliamentary development, newly inaugurated legislator Randy Baltimore has secured the position of Deputy Speaker for the House of Assembly. The appointment occurred through an uncontested election process following Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s official nomination.

    The political transition unfolded during Thursday’s parliamentary session, mere hours after Baltimore’s formal swearing-in ceremony. The absence of an opposing candidate from opposition benches resulted in Baltimore’s automatic elevation to the deputy leadership role.

    This leadership vacancy emerged following the departure of veteran parliamentarian Sir Robin Yearwood, who had occupied the Deputy Speaker position since its establishment in 2023. Sir Yearwood’s resignation created the opportunity for this political reshuffling within the assembly’s hierarchical structure.

    The Deputy Speaker position carries substantial responsibility in presiding over legislative debates and maintaining parliamentary order during the Speaker’s absence. Baltimore’s immediate appointment to this prestigious role signals the governing administration’s confidence in the newly seated parliamentarian’s capabilities.

    Political observers note the seamless transition demonstrates continued stability within the parliamentary leadership structure despite the recent changes in assembly composition.

  • PHOTOS: Clean-Up Drive Sweeps Antigua as Communities Take Pride in Their Spaces

    PHOTOS: Clean-Up Drive Sweeps Antigua as Communities Take Pride in Their Spaces

    The island nation of Antigua witnessed a powerful demonstration of civic unity as citizens from all walks of life mobilized for coordinated clean-up initiatives. In an extraordinary display of collective action, multigenerational volunteers dedicated their time to rehabilitate public areas and residential neighborhoods following recent environmental challenges. The organized activities, which spanned multiple communities, focused not only on debris removal but also on fostering a renewed sense of environmental responsibility among participants. Local organizers reported unprecedented turnout, with families, students, and elderly residents working side-by-side to restore the natural beauty of their shared spaces. This grassroots movement has sparked conversations about sustainable community maintenance practices and the importance of ongoing environmental conservation efforts. The initiative has been hailed by local authorities as a model for community-led environmental action, demonstrating how civic engagement can directly enhance quality of life and promote ecological awareness across generations.

  • Major overhaul for financial services regulation

    Major overhaul for financial services regulation

    Barbados has initiated a comprehensive transformation of its financial regulatory framework, with newly appointed Financial Services Commission Chairman Sir Patterson Cheltenham announcing ambitious modernization plans. The sweeping reforms, targeting the non-bank financial sector including insurance, pensions, securities and credit unions, aim to position the island nation as a more competitive global financial hub.

    Speaking at the sixth annual Barbados Risk and Insurance Management Conference, Cheltenham emphasized that the two-year reform program represents a fundamental modernization of supervisory architecture rather than mere rule updates. The new framework will adopt a principles-based approach that balances regulatory flexibility with resilient oversight, focusing scrutiny on areas presenting the greatest systemic risks.

    Governance remains central to the new framework, with Cheltenham stressing that strong oversight is non-negotiable across all financial sectors. The reforms will hold administrators accountable for prudent management and protection of members’ interests while safeguarding Barbados’s financial integrity and international reputation.

    The Financial Services Commission will engage industry stakeholders through consultation processes, allowing practitioners to contribute to legislative changes from early stages. Cheltenham also highlighted the need for aggressive international promotion of Barbados’s financial services, calling for enhanced collaboration between regulators and industry bodies to market the jurisdiction as a stable, credible financial domicile.

    This regulatory overhaul forms part of broader strategic efforts to reposition Barbados as a responsive and resilient financial services center capable of navigating evolving global risks while maintaining investor confidence in an increasingly competitive international landscape.

  • SLTA backs jazz events in 12 communities

    SLTA backs jazz events in 12 communities

    The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival is dramatically expanding its community-focused programming, positioning local engagement as the cornerstone of this year’s event strategy. Organizers have unveiled an ambitious calendar featuring 12 distinct community events, significantly outnumbering the seven mainstage performances scheduled for the festival.

    At a recent cheque presentation ceremony hosted by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) in Anse La Raye, festival officials emphasized the strategic shift toward community empowerment. SLTA Chairman and Festival Chair Thaddeus Antoine characterized these events as fundamental components that transcend mere entertainment, serving as platforms for economic activity, cultural expression, and genuine community ownership.

    This year’s community jazz roster introduces innovative experiences including ‘Soil to Soul Jazz’ in Dennery Valley, which promises a unique fusion of musical performance and wellness activities. The program also welcomes the reintroduction of Carelie Jazz in Castries North and the debut of Sunset Jazz at Anse Ferre near the Julien Alfred highway.

    Antoine highlighted the strategic consolidation of all community events under a unified festival umbrella, creating a more cohesive experience for both patrons and stakeholders while strengthening Saint Lucia’s global positioning as a culturally rich destination.

    Dexter Percil, SLTA’s Head of Global Marketing, commended community organizers for maintaining consistent branding while challenging them to elevate local performers to the same visibility level as regional acts. Three experienced professionals—Michele Antoine, Jasmine Henry, and Ersher Daniel—have been appointed to collaborate with communities and ensure elevated production standards.

    The community events commence on April 19 with Hills and Valley Jazz in Bexon, continuing through May with performances across multiple communities including Soufrière, Vieux Fort, Micoud, and Choiseul. The SLTA anticipates injecting approximately EC$1 million directly into these communities, supplemented by comprehensive logistical support.

  • BREAKING: Parliament to Be Prorogued

    BREAKING: Parliament to Be Prorogued

    In a significant political development, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has declared the prorogation of Antigua and Barbuda’s parliament during Thursday’s legislative session. The announcement came unexpectedly as lawmakers gathered to honor distinguished parliamentary figures.

    The Prime Minister revealed his intention during a session dedicated to paying tribute to three notable figures: the late MP Eustace Lake, newly appointed legislator Randy Baltimore, and outgoing parliamentarian Sir Molwyn Joseph. Browne indicated that a comprehensive official statement detailing the rationale behind this parliamentary suspension would be forthcoming shortly.

    Prorogation represents a formal mechanism in Commonwealth parliamentary systems whereby a legislative session concludes without dissolving the parliament itself. This procedural move typically serves as a strategic pause in governance, often preceding significant policy announcements or governmental restructuring.

    Political analysts suggest this development may signal an impending cabinet reshuffle or the introduction of new legislative agendas. The suspension effectively halts all pending parliamentary business while maintaining the current composition of representatives until proceedings resume under a new legislative agenda.

    The Prime Minister’s office has indicated that additional details regarding the duration of the prorogation and the timeline for reconvening parliament will be disclosed in the imminent formal statement.