The organizers of the Ti Vilaj Ceremony have announced a significant change in the event schedule. Originally slated to commence at 11:00 AM on Monday, October 20, the ceremony will now begin at 1:00 PM. The event is set to take place at the picturesque Botanic Gardens, a venue known for its lush greenery and serene ambiance. While the announcement did not provide specific reasons for the delay, such schedule adjustments are not uncommon in large-scale public events, often due to logistical preparations or unforeseen circumstances. Attendees are advised to adjust their plans accordingly and arrive at the new start time to fully enjoy the cultural festivities. The Ti Vilaj Ceremony, a celebration of local heritage and community spirit, promises to be a memorable occasion despite the slight delay.
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COMMENTARY: The route to innovative solutions
The Caribbean region stands at a crossroads, where innovation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future. Outdated models and traditional thinking have long constrained progress, but the path to renewal lies in embracing bold, transformative ideas. Innovation is not merely about creativity; it’s the practical application of novel concepts to create economic, social, and functional value. This requires fresh thinking, proactive leadership, and a culture that empowers youth and secures future-proof jobs.
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Over 50 Artists to Take Part in Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025
The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is set to captivate audiences from November 26, 2025, with over 50 artists showcasing their works. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) in collaboration with the Department of Culture, this year’s event promises a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary art, reflecting the nation’s rich cultural tapestry. Maria Blackman, ABTA’s marketing manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the overwhelming response from artists across the Caribbean, the US, Canada, and the wider diaspora. ‘From Haiti to Guadeloupe, the interest has been incredible,’ she remarked. ‘We are thrilled to continue supporting our artists and showcasing Antigua and Barbuda on an international stage.’ Local artist Stephen Murphy, a participant since the event’s inception, emphasized the significant impact of Art Week in promoting the island’s creative talent, citing recent sales at Carifesta in Barbados as evidence of its growing influence. The 2025 theme, ‘Culture in Color,’ aims to highlight authentic local experiences through visual arts, dance, spoken word, and music. The program will extend beyond traditional venues, offering visitors unique opportunities to engage directly with artists in their communities. All artworks displayed during the festival, including those at the airport and other public spaces, will be available for purchase, with a series of sub-events planned to enrich the experience.
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Corporal Shillingford and Constable Jeremy Honoured for Academic Achievement
The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has publicly celebrated the academic accomplishments of Corporal Shillingford and Constable Jeremy, who recently graduated from Monroe College. In an official statement, the Force lauded the officers for their unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth. Their success was highlighted as a testament to the organization’s dedication to fostering excellence and promoting lifelong learning among its members. The officers were commended for their perseverance and were encouraged to serve as role models, inspiring their peers to pursue higher education and continuous self-improvement. This achievement underscores the Force’s broader mission to enhance the skills and capabilities of its personnel, ensuring they are well-equipped to serve the community effectively. The recognition also reflects the importance of education in advancing law enforcement standards and fostering a culture of development within the police force.
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Single-Lane Traffic Continues on Major Roads as Repairs Progress
The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the continuation of single-lane traffic on several major roads to facilitate ongoing infrastructure repairs. These measures are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project, a government initiative aimed at improving road conditions in Antigua and Barbuda.
On Valley Road North, asphalt repairs, drain cleaning, and road markings will be conducted daily, starting at approximately 8:00 a.m. Similarly, Old Parham Road will see drain cleaning near Fabi Building Supplies during the same hours. Anchorage Road will undergo sidewalk rehabilitation, drainage work, and road markings, while Sir Sydney Walling Highway will focus on asphalt repairs, junction fixes, and miscellaneous tasks.
Flag persons will be stationed at these locations to guide motorists, who are urged to follow instructions carefully due to the presence of heavy-duty equipment. Despite the disruptions, all businesses in the affected areas remain open. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and encourages stakeholders to adjust their travel plans to account for potential delays.
For further inquiries, the public can contact the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for residents and visitors alike.
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Tech takes the counter: Fast food and retail sectors go self-service
The rollout of self-ordering kiosks at KFC outlets across Saint Lucia has elicited diverse responses from customers and management alike. While the technology promises enhanced efficiency and convenience, it has also sparked debates about its implications for workers and accessibility. Clinton Camille, delivery and special projects manager at Real Foods Inc., the franchise holder for KFC Saint Lucia, clarified that the kiosks are not replacing employees but rather ‘repurposing’ them. He explained that staff are being reallocated to ensure a consistent workflow, with increased demand for kitchen personnel due to higher order volumes. The card-only kiosks, developed in collaboration with Republic Bank, streamline order processing, reducing wait times and improving accuracy. However, some customers have raised concerns about the exclusion of cash payments and the challenges faced by those less comfortable with technology. Despite these issues, many patrons have praised the system for its speed and convenience. Similarly, the introduction of self-checkout services at Massy Stores reflects a broader trend toward retail automation. Roxane de Freitas, CEO of Massy Stores Trinidad and Tobago, emphasized the benefits of the new system, including reduced space requirements and enhanced security through surveillance. However, some Saint Lucian shoppers have expressed concerns about potential theft and operational difficulties. As the island continues its digital transformation, the balance between technological advancement, accessibility, and employment remains a critical topic of discussion.
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STATEMENT: UPP member Attorney Joshua Francis on the passing of Julius Timothy
The nation of Dominica is in mourning following the passing of Julius Timothy, a revered political figure and dedicated public servant. Joshua Francis, a prominent voice in the country, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Timothy as a humble servant whose contributions to the nation and its people were immeasurable. Timothy’s death marks a significant loss not only for his family and the Roseau North Constituency, which he represented, but also for the broader political community and the nation as a whole. Throughout his distinguished career in both politics and business, Timothy championed the causes of the marginalized, advocating for equality and human advancement. His repeated electoral victories in Roseau North were a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens. As the nation grieves, Francis extended his deepest condolences to Timothy’s family and loved ones, praying for strength and solace during this challenging time. He also called for the Almighty God to grant Timothy’s soul eternal peace, honoring the legacy of a man whose leadership and passion for public service will be deeply missed.
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Elva on target in Cavalry season finale
In a gripping conclusion to the Canada Premier League (CPL) season on October 18, Saint Lucian forward Caniggia Elva delivered a standout performance for Cavalry FC, helping the defending champions secure third place despite their lowest points tally in the league’s six-year history. Elva, named Player of the Match, played a pivotal role in a 2-2 draw against bottom-ranked Vancouver FC at Willoughby Community Park. The match saw Halifax Wanderers and York United both falter in their final games earlier that day. The encounter came alive in the final third, with Vancouver’s Tyler Crawford receiving a red card in the 60th minute. Niko Myroniuk put Cavalry ahead in the 78th minute, but Vancouver equalized shortly after. A well-crafted move in stoppage time saw Elva score his fourth goal of the season, only for Vancouver to level again through a penalty by David Norman Jr. Elva’s contributions, including three shots, five chances created, and two successful dribbles, earned him top honors. Reflecting on the result, Elva emphasized the importance of securing third place and the upcoming playoff clash at Spruce Meadows’ ATCO Field. Cavalry, as the third seed, will face either Halifax or York in the quarterfinals. Forge FC claimed the regular-season title, but Cavalry remains determined to defend their playoff crown, aiming to become the first team to achieve the double. Despite a challenging season with just 42 points, Elva expressed confidence in their playoff potential, stating, ‘We’re a completely different team in the playoffs.’
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Head of InterCaribbean Airways awarded honorary doctorate from UWI
Lyndon Gardiner, the visionary Founder and Chairman of interCaribbean Airways, was conferred an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree by The University of the West Indies (UWI) during a prestigious graduation ceremony at the Cave Hill Campus on October 18, 2025. This accolade recognizes Gardiner’s groundbreaking impact on the aviation sector and his unwavering commitment to fostering regional development across the Caribbean. The honor celebrates his three-decade-long leadership in building the Caribbean’s largest privately owned airline network, which has significantly enhanced connectivity and community growth. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Gardiner reflected on his journey, stating, ‘This recognition is deeply humbling. My dream was to connect our islands and make travel accessible to all, and today, that dream thrives through the dedication of our interCaribbean family.’ The UWI Council lauded Gardiner’s rise from modest beginnings in Bottle Creek, North Caicos, to transforming interCaribbean Airways into a regional powerhouse servicing 27 destinations across 17 countries. His bold leadership during the 2020 pandemic, when he expanded operations into seven new countries while competitors scaled back, was particularly commended. Beyond his business achievements, Gardiner’s philanthropic efforts were highlighted, including the establishment of the Manville Gardiner Memorial Scholarship, which supports Caribbean students pursuing aviation careers, and his collaborations with the World Pediatric Project for medical transport. The ceremony also celebrated his contributions to youth mentorship and disaster relief. Accompanied by family and colleagues, Gardiner’s recognition underscores his enduring legacy of innovation and community care. Trevor Sadler, CEO of interCaribbean Airways, remarked, ‘Lyndon’s story embodies the Caribbean spirit of determination and unity.’ The 2025 UWI graduation honored eleven distinguished individuals, with Gardiner being one of two celebrated at the Cave Hill Campus. Since its founding in 1992, interCaribbean Airways has grown into the Caribbean’s most extensive air transport network, employing hundreds and operating a modern fleet of over 20 aircraft.
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‘Chef Papi’ stirring traditions into modern Creole cuisine
As Saint Lucia commemorates Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl (Creole Heritage Month), the essence of Creole culture is vividly alive in its cuisine. For Chef Rashid ‘Papi’ Defraitas, a Saint Lucian chef based abroad, the aromas of green seasoning, fried accra, and simmering bouillon are more than just culinary delights—they are a profound connection to his roots, heritage, and purpose. Defraitas’ journey into the culinary world began unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolated from loved ones, he turned to cooking as a creative outlet, transforming curiosity into a professional passion. Starting with humble experiments in his kitchen, Defraitas faced initial skepticism from family and friends, who were amused by his newfound interest. However, through relentless practice and countless trials, he honed his skills and began sharing his creations online, eventually turning his passion into a career. For Defraitas, Saint Lucian cuisine is more than food—it is identity. He believes in evolving traditional dishes rather than reinventing them, aiming to celebrate classic flavors while adding his unique touch. One of his signature innovations is the reimagined fish cake, or ‘accra,’ paired with a garlic-lime aioli to elevate its presentation while preserving its authentic essence. Defraitas’ cooking philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of patience, layering, and seasoning, techniques passed down through generations of Saint Lucian cooks. His signature dish, pig foot souse, exemplifies this approach, blending traditional ingredients with fresh herbs and vibrant vegetables to create a dish that is both familiar and refreshingly new. As Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl continues, Defraitas’ story embodies the spirit of the season, showcasing how heritage, heart, and purpose can come together to create culinary masterpieces that honor and innovate Saint Lucian culture.