As a parent navigating the ‘First Day of School’ milestone, the experience was both exhilarating and daunting. Months of preparation went into gathering essentials for my toddler’s preschool journey. However, this transition also unveiled a troubling reality: the pervasive and unethical marketing of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods targeted at children. These products, often disguised as lunchbox necessities, are cleverly designed to appeal to young minds, undermining efforts to promote healthy eating habits.
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Taxi Association Pushes Back as Ride Hailing Swift App Gains Popularity
A new ride-hailing app, Swift, has ignited a heated debate in Antigua’s transportation sector, pitting modern technology against traditional taxi services. Launched earlier this year, Swift promises efficient and reliable rides for locals and tourists alike. However, Gregory Athill, president of the National Taxi Association, has voiced strong opposition, arguing that the app threatens both the livelihoods of taxi operators and the island’s long-standing culture of personalized service. Athill emphasized the importance of maintaining the human connection that has defined the industry for decades, stating, ‘We have a heritage, we have a culture where we have an experience, a relationship with people.’ He criticized the government for licensing Swift without consulting industry stakeholders, leaving taxi operators feeling sidelined. Another concern is the potential for unlicensed vehicles to operate on the platform, despite Swift’s assurances of rigorous driver verification. Athill remains steadfast in his resistance, declaring that the association will ‘stand its ground’ until their concerns are addressed. Meanwhile, some residents have expressed frustration with the traditional taxi system, citing issues like overcharging and limited availability. The clash highlights a broader tension between innovation and tradition, with the outcome likely to shape the future of Antigua’s transportation landscape.
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LIVE: DCOA visits centenarian Elaine Leblanc
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication, social media platforms have become the cornerstone of modern interaction. The recent surge in engagement metrics, including shares, tweets, pins, and related content, underscores the profound impact these platforms have on global connectivity. This phenomenon is not merely a reflection of technological advancement but also a testament to the human desire for connection and expression. As users increasingly rely on these platforms to share ideas, opinions, and experiences, the boundaries of traditional communication are being redefined. The integration of multimedia elements, such as images and videos, further enhances the richness of these interactions, making social media an indispensable tool in both personal and professional spheres. This trend is expected to continue, driven by the relentless innovation of tech giants and the growing demand for real-time, interactive communication. As we navigate this new era, it is crucial to understand the implications of this digital transformation on societal norms, privacy, and the dissemination of information.
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US Coast Guard seizes 5 tons of narcotics worth over $64.5 million in Caribbean Sea bust
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the U.S. Coast Guard has successfully seized over five tons of illicit narcotics during a 57-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea. The operation, led by the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Diligence (WMEC 616), resulted in the confiscation of 8,700 pounds of cocaine, valued at an estimated $64.5 million, alongside 1,500 pounds of marijuana. The contraband was intercepted in two major operations conducted in August and September 2025. The first interdiction occurred on August 7, approximately 136 miles southwest of Negril, Jamaica, where a suspicious vessel was boarded and the marijuana seized. The second operation took place on September 6, about 240 miles north of Panama, where the crew intercepted a fast-moving vessel laden with cocaine. The seized drugs were offloaded at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, Florida, on September 22. Commander Colin McKee, commanding officer of the Diligence, praised the crew’s efforts and highlighted the importance of these operations in preventing illegal drugs from entering the United States. The U.S. Coast Guard continues to intensify its efforts to disrupt and seize transshipments of cocaine and other illicit drugs, which are often linked to foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal groups. These operations underscore the critical role of interagency and international coordination in combating narco-terrorism on the high seas.
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UWI appoints new Director for the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning)
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus has officially appointed Mrs. Elia Grant-Fraser as the Director of the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), effective August 1. With a career spanning over three decades in education, Mrs. Grant-Fraser brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of innovation to her new role. She previously served as the Acting Director of CETL since 2023 and has held various senior positions within the Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) Division at UWI Global Campus. Her contributions include leading the establishment of a Multimedia Production Studio, a project funded by Global Affairs Canada, which has become a cornerstone for educational resources at the campus. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a pivotal role in designing and delivering training courses for government ministries in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, supporting adult education programs. Mrs. Grant-Fraser’s career also includes significant roles in distance education, such as her work with the National Open School of Trinidad and Tobago (NOSTT) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL). Her academic credentials include a Master’s in Educational Technology and a Bachelor’s in Education, and she is currently pursuing a PhD in Education at UWI St. Augustine. Pro Vice-Chancellor Dr. Francis O. Severin praised her appointment, highlighting her qualifications and dedication to advancing online and distance education. The UWI Global Campus leadership has expressed confidence in her ability to drive innovation and excellence in teaching and learning.
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UWI appoints new Director for the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL)
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus has announced the appointment of Elia Grant-Fraser as the new Director of the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL), effective August 1. With over a decade of service at UWI, including her recent role as Acting Director of CETL since 2023, Grant-Fraser brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of innovation in education. Her extensive career spans more than 30 years, during which she has held various senior positions in the Academic Programming and Delivery (APAD) Division, including Curriculum Development Specialist, Production Manager, and Head of the Online Programmes Delivery Department. One of her notable achievements includes leading the creation of a Multimedia Production Studio at the Global Campus in Trinidad, a project funded by Global Affairs Canada as part of the Strengthening Distance Education in the Caribbean (SDEC) initiative. This studio, housed in a repurposed 40-foot shipping container, has become a vital resource for the campus. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Grant-Fraser played a pivotal role in designing and delivering training courses for ministries in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, supporting adult education programs. Her academic journey includes a Master’s in Educational Technology from Concordia University and a Bachelor’s in Education from UWI St. Augustine. Currently pursuing a PhD, her research focuses on students’ cognitive presence in online courses. Pro Vice-Chancellor Dr. Francis O. Severin praised her appointment, highlighting her qualifications and dedication to advancing online and distance education. The UWI leadership expressed confidence in her ability to drive innovation and excellence in teaching and learning.
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SALCC nursing students welcome tuition support as ‘lifeline’
Nursing students at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) are experiencing a significant boost in morale and motivation thanks to a newly implemented government subsidy that alleviates the financial strain of their education. This phased financial aid, introduced at the start of the current academic year, has been hailed as a ‘lifesaver’ by many in the nursing program. The subsidy provides EC$2,500 in the first and second years, EC$5,000 in the third year, and a full EC$10,000 in the final year, effectively covering the entire tuition cost at that stage. For students balancing full-time jobs and rigorous academic schedules, the financial relief is transformative. ‘It was very challenging… you have to give your work your full time. You have to give your school your full-time. So getting to study and give school the attention it deserves was nearly impossible,’ shared a third-year student. With tuition costs peaking in the final year, many students have previously relied on loans to stay enrolled. The timing of this assistance is particularly fortuitous. ‘It came at a great time, especially the last year, which is the most expensive; two semesters and $10,000,’ one student noted. ‘That’s a lot of money. It’s really helpful. I don’t have to face my credit union anymore to get that disbursement. That’s less interest on my loan.’ Beyond the financial benefits, the initiative symbolizes a broader investment in the students’ futures. ‘It shows that our leaders believe in our potential and are investing in our future. We’re very happy about that,’ one student remarked. Another added, ‘It relieved my mind…So I was very elated. Finally, some financial support where I can now devote all my time to nursing school.’
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Organizers Outline Dress Code for Hospitality Job Fair
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Police detain 12-year-old after welfare check
A 12-year-old girl, who was detained at St. John’s Police Station for several hours following a welfare check, has returned home after an incident where she allegedly bit a female officer during attempts to restrain her. The incident occurred after police visited the child’s residence late Monday night, prompted by her mother’s report of her missing. The girl had returned home shortly after midnight, but officers proceeded with the welfare check, leading to the confrontation. During the encounter, the child reportedly became aggressive, resulting in her being taken into custody and placed in a cell until late afternoon. This has sparked concerns over whether the procedures outlined in the Child Justice Act were properly followed. According to a source familiar with child-protection law, the case treads a fine line between compliance and breach. The Act mandates that a social worker from the Youth Intervention Unit must assess the child before they are brought before the Child Justice Board. However, there is no immediate indication that these steps were taken. The incident has raised significant questions about the handling of juvenile cases and the adherence to legal protocols designed to protect children in such situations.
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Funeral of Teen Cricketer Vonde Bowers Held Today
The cricket world is in mourning following the untimely death of 17-year-old Vonde Bowers, a rising star in the national under-19 cricket team. Bowers, a student at Ottos Comprehensive School, tragically lost his life after being fatally stabbed in Gray’s Farm on July 29. He was discovered by passersby and rushed to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he succumbed to multiple stab wounds. Today, his funeral is being held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church on Valley Road, St John’s, with burial to follow. The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a player who had shown immense potential and dedication to the sport. Bowers’ death has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect young people. Hundreds gathered last month for a candlelight vigil in Gray’s Farm, where he was remembered for his exceptional talent, kind nature, and passion for cricket. Police have since charged a 16-year-old from Hatton with his murder. This tragic incident has left the community grappling with the loss of a young life full of promise and has highlighted the urgent need for addressing youth violence.