Antigua and Barbuda showcased their arm wrestling prowess on Saturday night, securing a resounding victory in the Clash of the Caribbean Arm Wrestling Series held at The People’s Place in St John’s. The home team triumphed in seven out of ten matches, leaving their Trinidadian competitors in the dust. The event kicked off with a stellar performance by Omarion Boyle and Omarie Laird, who both achieved flawless 3–0 victories. Nivron Browne, Nickson Grove, Daniel Antonio, and Joshua Rabess further cemented Antigua’s dominance with commanding wins. Despite the overwhelming performance by the hosts, Trinidad managed to claim three victories, thanks to Muhammad Ibrahim, Navardo Wallace-Gill, and Jesiah Bartholomew. The event not only highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s growing strength in regional arm wrestling but also underscored the sport’s increasing popularity across the Caribbean. The enthusiastic crowd added to the electric atmosphere, making it a night to remember for arm wrestling enthusiasts.
标签: Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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Senate takes first step toward ending the government shutdown
In a pivotal move to resolve the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Senate voted 60-40 on Sunday to advance a compromise funding bill, marking the first step toward reopening federal operations. The agreement, brokered by a group of moderate Democrats, has sparked internal discord within the party as it does not guarantee the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, a key demand from progressive lawmakers. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and most of his colleagues opposed the procedural vote, underscoring the deep divisions over health care policy. The deal, which includes bipartisan spending bills and a temporary funding extension until late January, also reverses mass firings of federal workers and ensures back pay for those affected. Senate Majority Leader John Thune urged swift action, emphasizing the shutdown’s widespread disruptions, including flight cancellations and delayed food assistance. While President Donald Trump expressed optimism about ending the shutdown, he stopped short of endorsing the deal. The agreement, which required the support of five Democrats to pass, has drawn criticism from House Democrats, who argue it fails to address health care affordability. The Senate’s decision sets the stage for a contentious December vote on ACA subsidies, with Republicans divided over extending COVID-19-era tax credits. Meanwhile, the shutdown’s impact continues to worsen, affecting millions of Americans ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
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Arbour Day 2025 to Promote Climate-Smart Tree Planting
The Department of Environment (DOE) has announced plans to host Arbour Day 2025 on November 27, centered around the theme “Buzzing with Power – Planting Trees for a Climate-Smart Future.” This annual event, set to take place on the DOE Lawn starting at 9 a.m., aims to engage residents in environmental conservation and bolster climate resilience. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase a diverse range of fruit trees, including coconut, custard apple, raspberry, soursop, guava, and pomegranate. Plant bags will be available for $2.50 each, with the option to exchange two bags for a tree. Beyond tree planting, the event will feature an array of activities such as live music, food and drink stalls, prize giveaways, and educational workshops focused on sustainable living and reforestation. Officials emphasize that the initiative seeks to inspire communities to take actionable steps toward a greener Antigua and Barbuda by promoting the cultivation of climate-resilient fruit trees. For more information, residents can call 462-4625 or visit environment.gov.ag.
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Future Pro Congratulates Kylano and Zaieem on Antigua and Barbuda National Team Call-Up
Future Pro has extended its heartfelt congratulations to two of its standout international players, Kylano and Zaieem, for earning a coveted spot on the Antigua and Barbuda Senior Men’s National Football Team. The club proudly announced that the dynamic duo will represent their nation in the upcoming international matches against Aruba and Guyana during the FIFA international break. Expressing immense pride in their accomplishment, Future Pro emphasized its unwavering support for the players as they embark on this significant milestone. The club conveyed its best wishes for success as Kylano and Zaieem prepare to showcase their skills on the global stage, representing their country with honor and determination.
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Antigua & Barbuda Swimmers Deliver Strong Performances at OECS Championships
The 33rd OECS Swimming Championships have witnessed remarkable achievements from Team Antigua & Barbuda, as they continue to make waves in the competition. With multiple medals and record-breaking swims, the team has secured fourth place in the standings, showcasing their resilience and national pride. Despite facing challenges, including swimmers competing while unwell, Antigua & Barbuda has demonstrated exceptional determination. As of the second day, the team has amassed 732 points, trailing behind Grenada (836), St. Lucia (803), and St. Vincent (747.5).
Ethan Stubbs-Greene and Jadon Wuilliez emerged as standout performers, setting new OECS records. Stubbs-Greene shattered the 200-metre freestyle record with a time of 1:51.24, while Wuilliez achieved dual records in the 50-metre breaststroke (27.89) and 50-metre freestyle. Wuilliez also clinched silver in the 200-metre freestyle (1:56.27), with teammate Stefano Mitchell securing bronze (1:56.37).
The young swimmers of Antigua & Barbuda also made their mark, with nine-year-old Isabel Nicholas claiming gold in both the 200-metre freestyle (2:29.34) and 50-metre backstroke (37.14). Charlotte Gold and Anna Sukumaran joined her on the podium, earning silver and bronze in the 200-metre freestyle, respectively. Among the boys, Akasion Shepard took bronze in the 8-and-under 25-metre backstroke (21.56), while Alessandro Bazzoni earned silver in the 11–12 100-metre backstroke (1:09.51).
In the Development Pathway Division, 13-year-old Anya DeGannes secured silver in the 13–14 100-metre backstroke (1:11.54), adding to her earlier gold medals in the 200-metre freestyle and 100-metre butterfly. Team officials lauded the swimmers’ perseverance, highlighting their ability to achieve personal bests despite illness. Coaches emphasized the performances as a testament to the nation’s growing talent pool across age groups.
The OECS Championships continue through the weekend, with Team Antigua & Barbuda aiming to build on their momentum in the final sessions.
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Rahkeem Cornwall Steps Down as Hurricanes Captain
In a significant development for Caribbean cricket, Antiguan all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall has announced his resignation as captain of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The decision comes just ahead of the highly anticipated CG United Super50 Cup, set to commence in Trinidad on November 19. Cornwall, who also captains the Antigua and Barbuda Master Blasters, revealed that his choice followed the conclusion of the recent LICB Mixed Tournament in St. Kitts, where his team secured a commendable second-place finish.
Cornwall, 31, emphasized that stepping down from the leadership role was a strategic move to focus on his personal performance. “I believe the team needs a fresh perspective and someone else to take up the mantle,” he stated. “I’ll continue to play, but my priority now is to enjoy my cricket without the added responsibilities of captaincy.”
The seasoned cricketer admitted that the dual pressures of leadership and performance had taken a toll on his form in recent years. “Captaining the team and ensuring the well-being of other players often overshadowed my own game,” he confessed. “It’s time for me to rediscover the joy of playing cricket.”
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Cornwall expressed unwavering commitment to the Hurricanes and praised the young talents who showcased their potential during the recent tournament. “I’m proud of the emerging players and their contributions. The future looks bright for the team,” he added.
West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is widely expected to take over the captaincy as the Hurricanes gear up for the Super50 Cup. Cornwall’s decision marks a new chapter for both the player and the team, as they aim for success in the upcoming tournament.
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Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Announces the Launch of Night One of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has officially announced the launch of Night One of the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival, set to take place on January 10th and 11th, 2026, at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in St. John’s, Antigua. This highly anticipated event promises to be a vibrant celebration of Caribbean music, culture, and unity, featuring a dynamic lineup of artists across genres such as Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, Bouyon, and Benna.
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The UWI Five Islands Campus to Celebrate World Quality Week 2025
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus in Antigua and Barbuda is set to mark World Quality Week from November 10 to 14, 2025, aligning with the global theme ‘Quality: Think Differently.’ This annual event, spearheaded by the Chartered Quality Institute, emphasizes the importance of quality management across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The Five Islands Campus will host a series of engaging activities designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement and quality assurance within the university community.
Key events include the digital launch of the ‘What Does Quality Mean to You?’ campaign, a Quality Forum titled ‘Thinking Differently at Five Islands,’ daily Quality Pop-Ups, and a Quality Circle featuring a commitment wall. These initiatives aim to encourage students, faculty, and staff to reflect on the significance of quality in education and beyond.
Campus Principal Prof. C. Justin Robinson highlighted the importance of robust quality management systems in preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. ‘In an era dominated by AI and rapid technological advancements, it is crucial that we maintain the high standards UWI is known for while ensuring our teaching, learning, and research address the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States like Antigua and Barbuda,’ he stated.
Established in 2019, the UWI Five Islands Campus is a cornerstone of Caribbean higher education, offering over 40 degree programs across four schools: Humanities and Education, Business and Management, Health and Behavioural Sciences, and Science, Computing, and Artificial Intelligence. The campus also houses the Centre of Excellence for Oceanography and the Blue Economy (COBE), underscoring its commitment to marine science research and sustainable economic development.
World Quality Week serves as a platform for UWI to reaffirm its dedication to continuous improvement and quality assurance, engaging the university community in meaningful initiatives that enhance the educational experience and address global challenges.
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Claudette “CP” Peters Honoured in Toronto for 25 Years of Musical Excellence
The Antigua and Barbuda Association of Toronto celebrated the 44th Independence Dinner and Dance on November 8, 2025, at the Toronto Grand Convention Centre, honoring Claudette ‘CP’ Peters, the renowned Soca Queen, for her remarkable 25-year contribution to music, culture, and community service. The event, a vibrant gathering of the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora and their Canadian friends, showcased national pride and cultural heritage. Peters, accompanied by the Disturbance Band, headlined the evening’s entertainment, which also featured performances by Drastic, Menace, Island Prince, and Soca Villain, the 2025 Carnival Road March champion. The event was co-presented by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s Canada Office, with Director of Tourism Tameka Wharton and Association President Selma Alincy emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural connections with the diaspora. Wharton expressed pride in sponsoring the entertainment for the second consecutive year, underscoring the value of promoting Antiguan and Barbudan talent globally. The program included a keynote address by Khan Cordice, Director of Culture and arranger for the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra. Attendees enjoyed an elegant evening of live music, fine dining, and patriotic celebration, commemorating 44 years of Antigua and Barbuda’s independence in grand fashion.
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Khan Cordice Honoured by Canadian Steelpan Federation for His Musical Contributions
Khan Cordice, a distinguished Antiguan musician and cultural ambassador, has been celebrated in Toronto for his exceptional contributions to the steelpan art form. Cordice, who serves as the Director of Culture and arranger for the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra, was honored by the Canadian Steelpan Federation and the Pan Arts Network during a special ceremony dedicated to Caribbean musical heritage. This accolade further cements Cordice’s reputation as a globally recognized steelpan educator, arranger, and advocate for cultural development. His visit to Canada coincided with the 44th Independence Dinner and Dance hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Association of Toronto, where he was a featured speaker alongside renowned performers, including Claudette “CP” Peters. The event highlighted the vibrant cultural ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean diaspora in Canada. (Photo: Khan Cordice, second from right, with fellow honourees and event organizers in Toronto.)
