分类： Society

As the vibrant pulse of Antigua’s Carnival 2025 beats across the land, we don more than costumes; we don the mantle of history, resilience and an unbreakable promise. Sixty eight years ago, this festival was ignited not merely for revelry but as the quintessential celebration of emancipation. It was and still is, the joyous defiance of a people liberated from the unspeakable yoke of chattel slavery, a living testament to the sacred declaration etched into our collective soul: NEVER AGAIN.

This declaration transcends the historical horror of chains. It is a profound philosophical stance against slavery in all its insidious forms. Today, the shackles may be forged from economic desperation, systemic inequality, climate injustice or the psychological bondage of self-doubt and cultural erasure. Carnival, in its very essence, is an annual act of resistance against these modern captivities. It is the assertion that the spirit birthed in freedom must FOREVER remain unbounded, refusing to be enslaved by circumstance or external definition.

This festival provides our most potent platform for promoting our cultural industries and our unparalleled talents. It is the grand stage where the soul of Antigua sings, dances and soars. The preservation of our unique art forms isn’t mere nostalgia; it is cultural survival locked into economic strategy. The story telling genius of Calypso, the thunderous heartbeat of the Iron Band, the gravity-defying majesty of the Moco Jumbie, the intricate artistry of Wire Bending, these are not just performances. They are vital threads connecting us to our ancestral ingenuity and resilience, reimagined through generations, today cloaked in the fanciful language of innovation. They are the bedrock of our distinct identity, a magnetic force enriching our tourism product unlike any imported spectacle. To lose them would be to sever a lifeline to our past and dim the beacon of our future.

The economic vitality sparked by Carnival radiates far beyond the revelry. It is the lifeblood flowing through all sectors, with a particularly vital pulse in our small business community. Hotels feel the impact, transport networks hum, restaurants buzz, beauty salons and nail shops but take a closer look: it’s the traditional tray vendors, their wares in demand by revellers, children and onlookers, that capture fondest memories.

It is the dedicated food vendors, filling the air with the irresistible aromas of local cuisine, who sustain the crowds and showcase our culinary heritage. These entrepreneurs, the new moniker for our industrious vendors, embody the Carnival spirit; resourceful, vibrant and essential to the fabric of the celebration. Their success is Carnival’s success; a distributed economic engine powering households across the nation. I can almost see the smiles of readers who were schooled or simply lived by these carnival vending operations.

Reflecting on 68 years is to walk with giants. We stand on the shoulders of the visionaries and stalwarts who shaped this cultural movement: pioneers like John Ferdinand Shoul and Reginald Knight; artistic forces like, Oscar Mason, Sir Rupert Philo, Sir Paul Richards and Sir McClean Emanuel; administrative pillars like Bernard Percival, Guy Yearwood, Erna-Mae Tonge, Eleston Adams and Baldwin Spencer; writers like like Shelly Tobitt, Marcus Christopher, Dr. Prince Ramsey and Little man Pelle; Mas designers like Alister Thomas, Calvin Southwell and Wanga Martin. Their combined contributions represent the foundation stones.

Our soundscape has been electrified by legendary bands: the stirring anthems of Laviscount Brass, the soulful harmonies of Saints Brothers, the infectious energy of Burning Flames, Eddie Mello and the Vision Band, LA Crew and Revo Band. As we mark this 68th anniversary, one art form shines with particular brilliance: Our Steelband.

I am not Nostradamus and certainly do not claim the prophetic values of Ezekiel or Daniel of Bible fame but Steelband will undeniably be the star of the show in 2025. While our beloved brass bands, still delivering powerful performances, often showcase familiar faces from the past 25-30 years, the steelband movement has experienced a phenomenal renaissance. It is now an explosion of youthful talent, innovation and participation. This surge of new energy, commitment and skill is precisely the kind of revitalization essential for the festival’s future. The brass bands must look to this model, embracing and nurturing the next generation to ensure their own enduring legacy and the overall dynamism of Carnival. The future sounds like steel, vibrant and young.

“Carnival is bacchanal”, a tired refrain oft repeated. We must vehemently resist this negative designation of our culture. It is a pejorative label we MUST NOT continue to internalize. Instead, we must take responsibility. Responsibility for its artistic development, for ensuring safety and respect within the revelry, for amplifying its global reach and most importantly, for proudly identifying with it. This vibrant, complex, historically-rooted celebration is afterall, who we are. It is our story, our catharsis, our creativity unleashed.

Happy Carnival 2025! As you revel in the mas, the music, the sheer exuberance, remember our forebears whose struggle for freedom made this joy possible. Celebrate the incredible journey from the depravity of slavery and colonialism to the independent, spirited management of our own affairs and our cultural crown jewel, Carnival.

Whether you choose to ‘Go Low Under the Red Flames’, ‘Throw Gas on de Fire’, ‘Get Soaking Wet’ or sway to the strains of ‘Stiff Iron’, do so with the spirit of freedom in your heart. Embrace our culture. Support our vendors. Applaud the artists, old and new, soca or calypso. Keep each other safe. Make Carnival 2025 not just a party, but a powerful, positive and profoundly Antiguan experience. Our flame of freedom, culture and resilience burns bright. Ramp up our happiness index….it’s a vibe, 268.

Antigua and Barbuda’s All Saints Road is set for major rehabilitation later this year, according to newly appointed Minister of State in the Ministry of Works, Senator Clement Antonio.

Speaking at a press conference following his swearing-in, Senator Antonio said discussions with contractors are ongoing, and designs have been refined to address longstanding issues.

Work is expected to begin in the final quarter of 2025. The Minister urged patience, noting that durable engineering is key to the road’s long-term resilience.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project, calling it a top infrastructure priority.

The father of Keon Richards is disputing police claims that his missing son is dead, despite DNA results confirming a match with a decomposed body found in March.

Police announced last week that forensic analysis had confirmed the identity of remains discovered in the yard of an abandoned house in Switzerland, Antigua, as that of 37-year-old Richards. The body, which showed signs of multiple stab wounds, was buried after samples were sent abroad for DNA testing.

However, Sean Richards, speaking from Georgia in the United States, says his family has received no documentation supporting the DNA match and remains unconvinced by the police conclusion.

He said “I have no proof that my son is dead,” “No record of anything. And now they’re saying on the news that his DNA was found and it was matched with the body.”

He added that the family had formally requested access to forensic documentation but had been denied. “They’re not giving anything. Sometimes when you call, you don’t get an answer. They don’t return calls. It’s frustrating,” he said.

Richards maintains that his son is still alive, despite his disappearance in mid-February and the failure of extensive searches to locate him. He described visiting his son’s apartment shortly after he was reported missing, noting no signs of a struggle and that all his belongings—including money, work clothes, and credentials—were still inside.

Acting Police Commissioner Everton Jeffers has reassured the family that the investigation remains active and is now officially treated as a homicide. Police continue to urge anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Department or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline.

The Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission (ABRSC) is proud to declare African Dress Day 2025 a resounding success. Across the nation, scores of Antiguans and Barbudans stepped out in vibrant African prints and garments, answering the national call to honour our African ancestry and proudly showcase our shared heritage.

This visible tribute to our roots was more than a fashion statement it was a bold affirmation of identity, unity, and reverence for the Ancestors who paved the path to freedom. The ABRSC commends the growing national consciousness and deepening appreciation of our African heritage, calling the day “a powerful act of remembrance and pride.”

“African Dress Day is not just about wearing the clothes,” the Commission emphasized. “It’s about embracing and sustaining our heritage… visually, spiritually, and culturally.”

As part of this year’s wider Emancipation observance under the theme _“A Call to Consciousness and Pride”_ , celebrations continue with the 17th Annual Watchnight Gathering, taking place Thursday, July 31st at 8:00 p.m. in the Botanical Gardens.

Watchnight is a sacred tradition rooted in hope and resistance. For enslaved Africans, it was a night spent waiting with bated breath for the dawn of freedom. Today, it remains a cornerstone of cultural and spiritual remembrance. The evening will feature drumming, libations, iron band performances, spoken word, and messages of hope. This year’s gathering will be especially poignant with Dr. Julius Garvey, son of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, delivering the keynote address, a powerful moment in connecting past and present liberation struggles.

The Emancipation season will culminate on August 1st, Emancipation Day, with the Emancipation Village at V.C. Bird Bust in the heart of St. John’s from 10am. The Village will transform the Market place into a lively cultural hub filled with traditional foods, local crafts, live performances, story telling and historical displays. It will serve as a space for families, artists, historians, and community members to gather in celebration and reflection.

“The Emancipation Village is more than an event; it is an immersive journey through our heritage. A moment to honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, while celebrating the beauty, resilience, and creativity of our people,” said the Commission.

As Antigua and Barbuda marks 191 years of Emancipation, the ABRSC reminds all that emancipation is not just a moment — it is a movement

Jolly Harbour Marina and Boatyard has paid tribute to George Bridger, a longtime marine electronics specialist and charter captain, who passed away this month at the age of 76.

Bridger was the founder of Startec Marine Electronics and spent many years providing technical support to yachts and boats operating out of Jolly Harbour. His contributions were described as invaluable to the marina’s operations and reputation.

“George was a hard worker and was clearly passionate about anything relating to boats and being on the water,” said Jo Lucas, Manager of Jolly Harbour Marina and Boatyard. “When he retired, it left a significant gap in the services we could offer.”

Bridger and his wife Stacey were well known for welcoming friends and family aboard their boat _Stargazer_. That passion evolved into a successful venture with _Gadaboat_ , a day charter business that became a favourite among visitors.

“George was in his element sharing what he loved most with guests from around the world,” Lucas said. “He was the perfect captain—entertaining guests with endless stories that had everyone laughing and inspired.”

Colleagues and friends remembered Bridger for his sense of humour, generosity, and warm spirit.

“His physical presence will be missed, but his legacy and the memories he created will remain part of our community,” Lucas added.

Jolly Harbour Marina and Boatyard said Bridger’s impact will be long remembered across Antigua’s maritime sector.

The tragic death of a 16-year-old just days before a brilliant Carnival performance was more than coincidence—it was a wake-up call. It revealed the two Antiguas we’re living in: one where youth soar with talent, and one where they fall through the cracks.

Carnival, with its color and culture, is often a joyous time. But joy must coexist with purpose. While we dance in the streets, we must also walk alongside our youth. And when I sat in the audience at the Teen Splash event, I knew we were watching something sacred—young people expressing their truth through art.

That truth included a call to action: bring back the village.

Not the village of yesterday, but a reimagined one. Today, the pillars of our community include tech-savvy nonprofits, schools, private companies, and grassroots leaders. And through Good Humans 268’s Student Community Service Program, we’re mobilizing these forces for good.

Our Student Community Service Program is creating a new framework of civic responsibility. Children as young as five are getting involved. Teens are learning about the environment, discipline, and empathy. It’s volunteerism redefined—modern, measurable, meaningful.

We’re not guessing our way through youth development anymore. We’re building systems. The app in development will transform how service hours are matched, tracked, and rewarded. It will connect students with opportunities, and institutions with talent. In the process, we will raise a generation that feels a sense of purpose and pride.

But more than anything, this work is about love. The kind of love that sees a troubled boy and offers mentorship instead of judgment. The kind of love that teaches soft skills like emotional intelligence, communication, and time management—skills that break cycles and build futures.

It’s not too late. We’re not too far gone. The Carnival lights will fade, but what we do next will determine whether the memories were fleeting or foundational. Let us build a culture where every 16-year-old knows their life matters. Where community doesn’t just happen—it is cultivated.

Let’s bring the village back. Let’s bring Antigua and Barbuda forward.

_July 2025 – United States / Caribbean_ – In a powerful journey rooted in love, purpose, and promise, Caribbean couple Engel and Amanda Jones, along with their three sons (ages 16, 11, and 5), completed an unforgettable **road trip across 21 U.S. states in just 6 days**, later adding **Alabama as a bonus stop on Day 8**—bringing their total to **22 states**.

The trip was more than sightseeing—it was a mission in motion:

**“To invest in what matters most—our children—by creating a journey that blends books, new places, and possibilities, through acts of love that speak louder than words.”

Narrated by Amanda and documented daily, this adventure weaves visits to **iconic libraries, literary landmarks, museums, and meaningful family reflections**, using their _Family Faith In Action_ journal.

Their path included stops at the **Savannah Public Library (GA)**, **Library of Congress (Washington, D.C.)**, and the **North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences**, among many others—each destination chosen to inspire curiosity and celebrate stories.

This family trip echoes a promise made in 2018 when Engel and Amanda traveled across **48 U.S. states and both sides of Canada**, conducting **349 face-to-face interviews** for Engel’s global podcast, _#12minconvos_. Their children weren’t part of that original journey—but they are now, front and center.

Now, with **22 states behind them**,

**The Jones family is already planning to complete the next 28 states—and of course, making sure _you_ are part of the journey. They want you to know: your dreams are possible.**

Stay tuned as they release **12-minute documentary-style videos** capturing each day’s highlights on their YouTube channel, **Family Faith In Action**, alongside interviews, reflections, and a heartfelt narration by Amanda Jones.

No more dodging potholes — the road leading to 📍Cooks Landfill is getting a much-needed concrete makeover. Daily commuters can soon expect smoother, safer travel. 👷🏽‍♂️🚧

The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) is advising the general public that single-lane traffic continues to be in effect to facilitate ongoing infrastructure repairs to major roads.

On Sir Sydney Walling Highway, asphalt repairs, road markings, concrete swales and bus lay-bys installation will continue this week, from Willikies westwards, starting daily at approximately 8:00 a.m.

On Old Parham Road, single-lane traffic will continue to facilitate guardrail adjustments.

On Valley Road North, single-lane traffic will be implemented to allow for asphalt repairs.

Flag persons will be employed, and motorists are encouraged to follow all instructions to ensure a cautious and safe passageway, as heavy-duty equipment will be operating near the works.

C.O. Williams Ltd. sincerely regrets the inconvenience. The road work is a part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project being carried out by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda.

Stakeholders are asked to adjust their travel plans to allow for delays.

Telephone queries can be made by calling the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573.