ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (Oct. 1, 2025) — Antigua and Barbuda are experiencing a much-needed reprieve from the overwhelming sargassum seaweed influxes that have plagued the Caribbean region this year. Recent satellite data from the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Lab reveals a dramatic reduction in sargassum levels, dropping from a peak of 38 million metric tons in July to 10.4 million metric tons by September. While the East Atlantic still shows historically high amounts, the overall trend indicates a significant decline across the Caribbean. Marine officials confirm that the region is currently in the decline phase of the 2025 sargassum season. However, they caution that localized inundations remain possible as floating seaweed mats continue to drift through Caribbean waters. The sargassum blooms have had severe economic and ecological impacts, particularly on beaches and cultural sites like Nelson Dockyard National Park. Sub-surface accumulations have also blocked sunlight, threatening coral reefs and seagrass beds vital to marine ecosystems. Authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance, as ocean currents and bloom dynamics could still bring new influxes. Researchers are working on advanced forecasting models to better predict nearshore movements. Scientists attribute the recurring sargassum blooms to climate change and poor resource management, urging regional collaboration to mitigate their effects. Despite the recent decline, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges posed by this environmental phenomenon.
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Why Being Informed Is More Important than Ever. by Garfield Joseph MBA
In an era where information is more accessible than ever, a paradoxical challenge has emerged: while we are inundated with data, many remain uninformed. Social media feeds, emails, news outlets, and workplace communications bombard us daily, yet confusion, misinformation, and disengagement persist. This raises a critical question: What does it truly mean to be informed? Being informed goes beyond mere exposure to information; it involves understanding, contextualizing, and applying knowledge to enhance decision-making, foster engagement, and drive meaningful action. It empowers individuals to navigate their environments with clarity and confidence, transforming reactions into thoughtful responses and survival into thriving. Information reaches us through various channels—electronic media, workplace interactions, traditional media, casual conversations, and formal settings. Each source has the potential to enlighten or mislead, depending on how it is shared and received. In the workplace, for instance, unclear communication can erode morale, reduce productivity, and damage trust. Conversely, keeping others informed has transformative benefits. It increases engagement and ownership, improves decision-making, enhances collaboration, builds resilience in crises, and fosters empathy. Organizations thrive when leaders provide clarity and consistency in communication, ensuring employees understand their roles and expectations. This principle extends beyond workplaces to customer relations, community outreach, and national development. In critical moments, such as natural disasters or health emergencies, timely and accurate information can be life-saving. Leaders, employees, citizens, and media professionals all have roles to play in fostering a well-informed society. Leaders must communicate openly, employees should seek clarity, citizens must engage with credible sources, and media professionals must uphold journalistic integrity. In a world saturated with noise, being intentional about the information we consume and share is crucial. Filtering distractions, verifying sources, and prioritizing truth over sensationalism are essential practices. Being informed is not just a personal advantage—it’s a civic responsibility. Sharing what matters, staying engaged, and helping others do the same can change lives and transform organizations.
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Police investigate armed robbery
In a startling early morning event on Wednesday, September 1st, 2025, Nassau, Bahamas, witnessed an armed robbery that has left the local community on edge. The incident occurred off East Street South, specifically on Cox Way, where a male victim was accosted by a masked individual wielding a firearm. According to initial reports, the confrontation took place shortly after 6:00 a.m. The assailant allegedly fired a shot before seizing the victim’s personal belongings and making a swift escape in an unknown direction. Fortunately, the victim emerged from the ordeal unharmed. The Nassau Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the matter and is urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in apprehending the suspect. Authorities have provided multiple channels for reporting tips, including emergency numbers 911 and 919, local police stations, and the Criminal Investigation Department at 502-9991. Additionally, anonymous tips can be submitted through CRIME STOPPERS at 328-TIPS (8477). The police are hopeful that community cooperation will lead to a swift resolution of this case.
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Police investigate stabbing incident
Authorities in Nassau, Bahamas, are currently investigating a violent altercation that unfolded on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, resulting in a man being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident began shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Seventh Terrace, near Mount Royal Avenue, when a collision occurred between two vehicles. According to initial reports, one of the drivers involved fled the scene but was pursued and intercepted by the other driver. A heated argument erupted between the two individuals, escalating into physical violence. During the confrontation, one of the men was stabbed with an unidentified object. The injured party was rushed to the hospital in a private vehicle and remains in critical condition. Police have launched a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the altercation and to identify those responsible.
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Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025 Announced
The Department of Creative Industries in Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans for the highly anticipated Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition 2025. This annual event aims to capture the festive spirit through creative and dazzling lighting displays, encouraging both homeowners and businesses to participate. Registration is now open and will close on December 17, 2025. Forms can be collected at the Department of Creative Industries Headquarters on Old Parham Road, the INET office upstairs, or the National Festivals Office on Redcliffe Street and Corn Alley, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Pre-judging will take place on December 20 and 21, 2025, with final judging scheduled for December 28, 2025. Winners will be announced on January 5, 2026, during the Good Morning Antigua and Barbuda broadcast. Home entries will be categorized into East, West, North, and South zones, with participants receiving a 100% waiver on electricity services from December 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026, along with duty-free concessions on Christmas lights and decorations. Cash prizes of $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 XCD will be awarded to the top three winners in each zone. Business participants will enjoy a 50% electricity waiver for December 2025, similar duty-free concessions, and cash prizes matching those for home entries. The competition promises to bring joy and splendor to the holiday season, fostering community spirit and creativity. For advertising opportunities, contact [email protected].
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Antigua’s Junior Tourism Minister Kiara Kwenga to Compete at Youth Congress in Barbados Today
Antigua and Barbuda’s Junior Tourism Minister, 16-year-old Kiara Kwenga, is poised to represent her nation at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Regional Youth Congress on October 2, 2025. The event, a highlight of the State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados, will bring together young leaders from across the Caribbean to discuss the future of tourism in the region. Kiara, a fifth-form student at Christ The King High School, will showcase her innovative ideas on sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and cultural preservation. The Youth Congress, known for its lively debate-style format, challenges participants to address real-world issues facing Caribbean tourism, from enhancing visitor experiences to fostering community development. Kiara’s participation underscores the creativity and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s youth, as she competes for the title of CTO Youth Ambassador. The winner will take on the prestigious role of promoting Caribbean tourism globally and inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. The event is a testament to the CTO’s commitment to empowering young voices in shaping the future of tourism.
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Greene Urges Healthy Living as St. Paul’s Marks Health Month
St. Paul’s annual Health Month has officially commenced, with Parliamentary Representative E.P. Chet Greene urging residents to take proactive steps toward improving their well-being. Running from October 1 to 31 under the theme “Healthy Lifestyle …things we can change,” the initiative aims to foster healthier habits through a series of activities, including health screenings, public lectures, radio programs, and outreach efforts to homes and schools. Greene emphasized that the campaign is not just about individual health but also about strengthening community engagement and collective responsibility. In his Health Month message, Greene highlighted the importance of mindful consumption, advising residents to “eat and drink wisely” and track their daily water intake. He encouraged active participation in the month’s events, framing the observance as both a personal challenge and a commitment to families, the community, and the nation. “Stay healthy for yourselves, your families, our community, and our country,” Greene stated, underscoring the broader societal impact of individual health choices. The initiative seeks to empower residents to make sustainable lifestyle changes while fostering a culture of health awareness across St. Paul.
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Central Bank Celebrates 42 Years of Financial Stewardship and Stability
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) commemorated its 42nd anniversary on Wednesday, 1 October, marking over four decades of unwavering service to the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU). The milestone was celebrated with a special worship service on Sunday, 28 September, attended by ECCB management, staff, retirees, stakeholders, and community members. The event, led by Pastor Leroy Matthew of the People’s Evangelistic Centre, was a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the Bank’s enduring contributions to regional financial stability. Pastor Matthew praised the steadfastness of the Eastern Caribbean (EC) dollar, which has been pegged to the U.S. dollar at EC$2.70=US$1.00 since 1976, highlighting its role in fostering economic confidence. ECCB Governor Timothy N.J. Antoine, in his address, thanked God for the Bank’s journey and reaffirmed the strength of the EC dollar, backed by nearly 99.0% foreign reserves. He emphasized the ECCB’s commitment to maintaining financial stability across its eight member countries. Governor Antoine also honored the Bank’s pioneers, including Dr. Sir Kennedy Simmonds, Sir Cecil Jacobs, Sir K Dwight Venner, and Sir Errol Allen, while acknowledging the collective efforts of past and present contributors. In a poignant moment, he addressed the younger generation, explaining the ECCB’s critical role in regulating financial institutions, issuing currency, and safeguarding deposits. He urged both children and adults to value the Bank’s work and to pray for its continued success. The anniversary coincided with the Financial Information Month (FIM) Festival, a regional initiative promoting financial literacy under the theme ‘Financial Empowerment Through Education.’ The event underscored the ECCB’s legacy of leadership and its ongoing mission to empower the people of the Eastern Caribbean.
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Adames Sentenced to Prison for Indecent Assault
In a significant legal development, Rafael Adames has been sentenced to five years in prison for the crime of indecent assault. The ruling was issued by His Lordship Justice Iain Morley, KC, at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 25, 2025. The incident, which occurred on June 8, 2024, led to Adames pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on July 8, 2025. His sentencing was postponed until September 2025. Notably, the court has deducted the 10 months and 27 days Adames spent on remand from his total sentence. Under current legal provisions, Adames is required to serve two-thirds of his sentence, contingent upon good behaviour. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing serious offences and ensuring justice for victims.
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Blake Sentenced to Four Years for House Breaking and Larceny
In a significant legal development, Gibson Blake from Conaree, St. Kitts, has been sentenced to four years in His Majesty’s Prison for charges of House Breaking and Larceny. The incident, which took place in January 2025, culminated in Blake’s appearance before Justice Iain Morley KC at the Basseterre Circuit Court on September 26, 2025, where the verdict was pronounced. Blake, who had been in custody since his arrest, will have the time already served—one year, eight months, and 21 days—deducted from his total sentence after remission is applied. This case underscores the judicial system’s commitment to addressing property crimes and ensuring justice for affected parties.