AGP Executive Report

Sudden Death Probe: Police are investigating the death of 75-year-old Carl Noel Lashley, found on Lower All Saints Road with no visible signs of injury. Tourism & Culture: The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority closed Culinary Month’s finale with Canadian chef Devan “Chef Dev” Rajkumar, while Minister H. Charles Fernandez and the tourism fraternity mourned tourism pioneer Theodore “Ted” Isaac. Public Health Pressure: Opposition whip Marvin Gonzales is demanding details from Government on its Ebola protection plan after regional screening moves. Medical Relief: The Calvin Ayre Foundation, with MBS and CalvinAir, helped two patients secure urgent overseas cardiac treatment in Martinique. Cricket Fever: Cricket West Indies released the 2026 home season schedule, with Antigua hosting a two-match Test series vs Sri Lanka and a busy summer of ODIs and T20s across the region. Sports Tourism Push: Minister Freeland says sports tourism could boost Antigua and Barbuda’s economy beyond match days. Infrastructure Update: APUA says a fuel leak at Friars Hill Road has been contained, with cleanup next. Carnival Spotlight: Organizers unveiled seven delegates for Queen of Carnival 2026. Long Bay Luxury: Long Bay Zen Resort (US$200M) officially launched, positioning “quiet luxury” for Antigua’s east coast.

Cricket Buzz: Cricket West Indies has confirmed its 2026 Men’s International Home Series under the “WI OUTSIDE!” campaign, running June 3 to August 6, with Antigua and Barbuda set to host a two-match Test series vs Sri Lanka (June 25–29 and July 3–7) and the wider summer featuring ODIs, T20Is and Tests across Jamaica, Guyana, Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago. Local Sports Development: CWI also launched a High-Performance Fast Bowling Assessment Camp in Antigua (June 1–11) for 12 talents, led by Ottis Gibson with Jerome Taylor assisting. Luxury & Tourism: Long Bay Zen Resort officially launched on Antigua’s east coast as a US$200 million “quiet luxury” project, with 113 keys and major construction planned for Q4 2026. Community & Safety: APUA says a Friars Hill Road fuel leak has been successfully contained, with cleanup and absorbent removal next. Disaster Readiness: NODS released the 2026 National Hurricane Shelter List, mapping 46 shelters across 17 disaster districts. Arts & Culture: Queen of Carnival 2026 organizers unveiled seven delegates competing under “Rhythm of a Queen: The Beat of Her Journey.”

Hurricane Readiness: NODS and Public Works have released Antigua and Barbuda’s 2026 National Hurricane Shelter List, confirming 46 public shelters across 17 disaster districts so residents know where to go and who to contact. Road Safety Reality Check: Traffic officers say “reckless” driving is often really careless driving—especially on newly paved roads where drivers overtake aggressively. Public Safety Update: APUA says a Friars Hill Road fuel leak from a former storage tank has been contained, with cleanup and absorbent removal next. Sports—West Indies Cricket: Cricket West Indies unveiled the 2026 Men’s International Home Series schedule vs Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan, with Antigua hosting a two-match Test series vs Sri Lanka and more matches across the region. Luxury Tourism: Long Bay Zen Resort, a US$200M, 113-key “quiet luxury” development, was officially unveiled at Long Bay with construction set to ramp up. Arts & Culture: Queen of Carnival 2026 delegates have been announced, and Antigua & Barbuda brought Carnival energy to Miami at Food, Wine & Fete 2026. Regional Spotlight: INS Sudarshini wrapped up its Antigua port call under Lokayan 26, boosting India–Caribbean maritime ties. Community & Health: A vape epidemic warning is making the rounds as youth vaping grows faster than Caribbean policy can respond.

Cricket Development: Cricket West Indies has kicked off a 10-day High-Performance Fast Bowling Assessment Camp at Coolidge Cricket Ground, with 12 fast-bowling talents being coached by Ottis Gibson and Jerome Taylor. ODI Watch: Shimron Hetmyer is back in the West Indies 15-man ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series in Jamaica, with Alzarri Joseph and Gudakesh Motie also returning as West Indies chase automatic World Cup qualification. Tourism & Media Buzz: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 is underway, bringing Antigua and Barbuda tourism leaders into the spotlight as regional partners push “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” Local Culture: Antigua & Barbuda brought Carnival energy to Miami’s Food, Wine & Fete, while Culinary Month continues at Hodges Bay with a multi-course dinner featuring five Caribbean female chefs and English Harbour rum pairings. Sports Administration: ABFA appoints D. Zorol Barthley as General Secretary as preparations ramp up for the Concacaf Under-20 Championship. Community & Health: Advocates are urging corporate Antigua to hire disabled citizens, and World No Tobacco Day coverage highlights the fast-growing youth vaping problem. Big Build: Long Bay Zen Resort officially launched with demolition starting now and major construction slated for late 2026.

Disability & Work: Advocacy leader Joshuanette Francis urges Antigua’s corporate sector to hire the nation’s 16,000 disabled citizens, pushing back on charity-only stereotypes and calling for stronger enforcement and more disability voices. Fundraising Win: The Salvation Army’s “Pathway to Purpose” charity tea party met its Student Scholarship Fund target at AUA, with another fundraiser planned before applications open. Luxury Tourism Launch: Long Bay Zen Resort (US$200m, 113 rooms) was officially unveiled in Antigua, with green-energy plans, desalination, and “quiet luxury” positioning tied to Tourism Vision 2030. Culinary Spotlight: Hodges Bay Resort hosted Culinary Month’s multi-course dinner featuring five Caribbean female chefs and English Harbour rum pairings. Youth Vaping Alarm: World No Tobacco Day messaging highlights how flavoured vapes and “nicotine-free” labels are pulling teens in, urging faster policy action. Cricket Buzz: CWI named its ODI squad for Sri Lanka with returns for Alzarri Joseph and Shimron Hetmyer, while ABCA denies any rift with clubs over T20 Premier League support. CHOGM Prep: The CHOGM 2026 task force met to advance accreditation, security, transport, and accommodation milestones ahead of key recce work.

Cricket Politics: ABCA president Leon “Kuma” Rodney denies any rift with clubs after the association turned down the Cricket Club Alliance’s request for support ahead of the June 6 T20 Premier League, citing insufficient notice. Food & Climate: Experts warn El Niño drought could hit Antigua and Barbuda’s food security hard, pushing up prices and straining the import bill as water and fertiliser costs rise. Culinary Spotlight: Antigua’s Culinary Month dinner at Hodges Bay Resort brought five Caribbean female chefs together, pairing their multi-course menus with English Harbour Rum cocktails. CHOGM Update: The CHOGM 2026 task force met to advance accreditation, accommodation, security, transport, and a major recce set for June 7–13. T20 Return: Dario Barthley says the Cool & Smooth T20 Explosion is set to return between November and December, with talks ongoing with clubs. ODI Squad News: West Indies named a 15-man ODI squad vs Sri Lanka (June 3–8, Sabina Park), with Alzarri Joseph and Shimron Hetmyer recalled. Youth Vaping Pushback: World No Tobacco Day messaging targets the “appeal” of vapes to teens, urging faster Caribbean policy action. Tourism & Music: Caribbean Week in New York kicks off June 1, while Antigua reggae ambassador Causion readies his June release “Feels Like I’m Dreaming,” filmed in Antigua.

Antigua Tourism & Culture: Reggae ambassador Causion is set to release his new song “Feels Like I’m Dreaming” on June 1, filming the video in Antigua and using the track to spotlight the island’s beauty and tourism pull. Luxury Hospitality: Antigua’s Long Bay Zen Resort (US$200 million) has officially broken ground, with Prime Minister Gaston Browne pitching ultra-premium stays and fair pay for workers; Hodges Bay Resort & Spa also landed on Caribbean Journal’s 2026 “Cool List.” Sailing Spotlight: The 13th SESCA Antigua Sailing Day Regatta is slated for June 28 at Lackford Lake, with handicap racing for adults, juniors and disabled sailors. Cricket (Women’s T20 World Cup): Cricket West Indies named a 15-member squad for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, with Antiguan Shawnisha Hector included. Community & Safety: Police are investigating the death of 56-year-old Dion Francis found outside a home in Cooks Hill, while also appealing for tips after a robbery at Carty’s Hill. Arts & Heritage: Ras Iley’s “One Caribbean” concert is set to headline regional kaiso legends, including 95-year-old Lord Nelson.

CPL Buzz: Antigua and Barbuda Falcons coach Paul Nixon says his squad is ready to make a statement in the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, stressing a “fun vibe” alongside winning experience. Women’s Cricket Spotlight: Cricket West Indies named a 15-member squad for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, with Antiguan Shawnisha Hector included and the team aiming for aggressive powerplay intent and adaptability. Local Cricket Admin: The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association turned down support for the Antigua and Barbuda T20 Premier League, citing late notice—casting doubt on the league’s ability to move forward smoothly. Luxury Tourism Push: Government welcomed the start of construction on the US$200 million Long Bay Zen Resort, while Hodges Bay Resort & Spa was named to Caribbean Journal’s 2026 Cool List. Music & Culture: Causion is filming “Feels Like I’m Dreaming” for a June release, and Ras Iley’s One Caribbean concert is set to headline regional kaiso legends. Public Safety Tech: Antigua’s Crime Scene unit says fingerprint upgrades are coming, alongside work toward a national criminal database and a forensic lab. Community & Sport: Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown’s Autism Awareness Walk drew strong support, and Caribana 2026 in Barbuda faced weather and technical hiccups but still delivered.

Women’s Cricket: Cricket West Indies named a 15-player squad for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales (June 5–July 5), with Antigua’s Shawnisha Hector earning a spot as the first Antiguan woman selected for the West Indies team; the plan leans on powerplay intent, middle-overs scoring, and disciplined bowling. Local Sports Leadership: Antigua and Barbuda Football Association president Ickford “Nyah” Roberts says Zorol Barthley will be confirmed as the new General Secretary, bringing business and sports operations experience. Tourism & Luxury Hotels: Antigua welcomed construction of the US$200 million Long Bay Zen resort, while Hodges Bay Resort and Spa made Caribbean Journal’s 2026 “Cool List,” spotlighting Antigua’s growing high-end appeal. Arts & Culture: Ras Iley’s One Caribbean concert is set to headline kaiso legends, including 95-year-old Lord Nelson, as organisers push to revive calypso across generations. Public Safety Tech: The Crime Scene Unit says fingerprint upgrades are coming, alongside plans for a criminal fingerprint database and a forensic lab. Community & Education: The Salvation Army launches a tertiary scholarship fundraiser with a tea party at AUA, featuring entertainment by the Strays Band.

Luxury Tourism: Antigua welcomed the start of construction on the US$200 million Long Bay Zen Resort, with PM Gaston Browne pitching ultra-luxury stays and promising staff pay above the planned lifestyle minimum wage. Hotel Spotlight: Hodges Bay Resort & Spa made Caribbean Journal’s 2026 Cool List, praised for its art-filled design and Prickly Pear Island experience. Cricket (Women): Shawnisha Hector was named in the West Indies 15-player squad for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales. Cricket (Local Admin): ABCA turned down support for the Antigua and Barbuda T20 Premier League, citing late notice, while the ABFA confirmed Zorol Barthley as new General Secretary. Community & Arts: UWI Five Islands mourned Dr. Renée Smith, a campus counsellor and musical force behind youth choirs. Public Service: Postmaster General Algernon Gomes shared postal service updates after the CPU conference. Security: Police appealed for info after a Carty’s Hill robbery involving a phone, DVR, safe, and ammunition. Music/Entertainment: MaSicka’s “Sicka Summa” continues to trend across the region.

Cricket Spotlight: Shawnisha Hector has been named in West Indies’ 15-member squad for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, with Cricket West Indies pointing to powerplay impact and adaptability in English conditions. Local Cricket Admin: The Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association turned down a request for support for the Antigua and Barbuda T20 Premier League, citing late notice and protocol issues—leaving the league’s finances under fresh pressure. Football Leadership: ABFA president Ickford “Nyah” Roberts is set to confirm Zorol Barthley as General Secretary, bringing a business-and-operations focus to the secretariat. Community & Culture: The UWI Five Islands Campus mourns Dr. Renée Smith, a longtime choir leader and campus counsellor whose work shaped student wellbeing and musical life. Sports & Travel Perks: Air Canada rolls out free, streaming-quality Wi‑Fi for Aeroplan members on Caribbean routes, a boost for regional flyers. Entertainment Picks: TV listings highlight Britain’s Got Talent: Live Final and Emma Barnett’s focus on endometriosis. Music Buzz: Dancehall artist Masicka’s “Sicka Summa” continues to trend across the region with “Slip and Slide” gaining major traction.

West Africa–Caribbean connectivity: Air Peace has launched scheduled flights linking West Africa and the Caribbean, aiming to unlock trade, tourism, and people-to-people links. Cricket fever: Cricket West Indies confirmed the 2026 Men’s International Home Series with matches vs Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan, plus Barbados added as co-host for the NZ ODIs. Local cricket comeback: Alzarri Joseph is back in training at Coolidge after a lower-back injury, saying it “hurts” to watch but he’s feeling stronger ahead of the Sri Lanka series. Community & inclusion: Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown’s Autism Awareness Walk drew strong support, with partners and emergency services helping make it run smoothly. Festival update: Caribana 2026 in Barbuda faced rain and late starts, but organisers say the entertainment still landed and lessons are set for next year. Scholarship push: The Salvation Army launches its “Pathway to Purpose” tertiary scholarship with a Sunday tea party fundraiser featuring live entertainment. Hurricane readiness: A revived national church service is set for Sunday to pray for protection as the 2026 Atlantic season approaches. Arts & remembrance: UWI Five Islands Campus mourns Dr. Renee Smith, a beloved educator, counsellor and choir coordinator.

West Indies Cricket: Cricket West Indies has officially unveiled the 2026 Men’s International Home Series, with WI set to host Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan across the Caribbean, and Barbados added as a co-host for the New Zealand ODI run. Antigua & Barbuda Sports Spotlight: Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is back in the senior setup at Coolidge after a lower-back injury sidelined him for much of 2025, and he says it “hurts” to watch from TV while he works toward the upcoming limited-overs series. Local Community & Health: The Rotary Club of Antigua Sundown wrapped up a strong Autism Awareness Walk at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, while Scrub Life Cares is pushing Menstrual Hygiene Day with a “Wear Red or Pink” campaign on May 28. Arts & Entertainment: The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission announced a free five-day Music Development Masterclass (June 8–12) for artistes, producers, DJs and more, plus dancehall artist Merkz is seeing chart momentum with his EP The Mad Life. Tourism & Lifestyle: A destination spotlight highlights Antigua & Barbuda’s luxury, lifestyle and yachting culture, and a separate travel note says Air Canada now offers free, streaming-quality Wi‑Fi on Caribbean flights for Aeroplan members.

Luxury Tourism: InterContinental is set to open InterContinental Grenada–La Sagesse, a 120-room resort beside Six Senses, debuting in November 2026—another big Caribbean luxury milestone. Cricket & Local Pride: West Indies ramp up for Sri Lanka with a 10-day high-performance camp in Antigua; batting coach Floyd Reifer says intensity is high and the focus is spin, while Alzarri Joseph is back after a lower-back injury and Alzarri’s “hurts having to watch on TV” comeback story is already driving momentum. Menstrual Health Movement: Scrub Life Cares, with the Gender Affairs directorate and Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, invites Antiguans and Barbudans to wear red or pink on May 28 for Menstrual Hygiene Day. Music Development: The Festivals Commission launches a free five-day Music Development Masterclass (June 8–12) for artistes, DJs, producers, dancers and writers, covering songwriting, mixing/mastering, distribution, copyright and marketing. Caribbean Week Buzz: Caribbean Week in New York returns June 1 with regional tourism leaders under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” Sports Spotlight: Antigua & Barbuda Masters stay unbeaten to win the Leeward Islands Masters T20 crown in Nevis.

Parliament Drama: Opposition leader Jamale Pringle was ejected after Senate President Alicia Williams-Grant enforced the oath requirement, leaving the opposition benches empty during the Throne Speech session. National Planning: Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams delivered the 2026 Speech from the Throne, outlining a 25-year development blueprint and a major shift toward transforming the Medical Benefits Scheme into a National Health Insurance plan. Cricket Camp Buzz: West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer says Antigua’s high-performance white-ball camp is running on “high intensity,” with batters drilling to neutralise Sri Lanka’s spin. Local Star Return: Antiguan pacer Alzarri Joseph is back after a lower-back injury, saying it “hurts” to watch on TV but he’s feeling stronger at Coolidge and pushing for selection. Music for Creatives: The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission launches a free five-day Music Development Masterclass (June 8–12) for artistes, producers, DJs, songwriters and more, covering songwriting, mixing/mastering, distribution, copyright and marketing. Entertainment Travel: Hodges Bay Resort and Spa tops a Caribbean “coolest hotels” list for 2026, spotlighting Antigua’s boutique-luxury appeal. Sports Community: Antigua and Barbuda Masters won the Leeward Islands Masters T20 crown in Nevis, finishing unbeaten and taking the final over St Kitts Masters. Ebola Alert Watch: Reports of heightened Ebola importation risk in Nigeria are raising public health anxiety as Caribbean tourism continues to expand.

Cool Hotels Spotlight: The Cool List 2026 crowns Antigua’s Hodges Bay Resort & Spa as the Caribbean’s “coolest” hotel, praising its boutique feel, standout dining (including Katsuya), and the creative Prickly Pear island escape. Cricket Comeback: Alzarri Joseph is back in West Indies camp at Coolidge, pushing toward the Sri Lanka limited-overs series after a lower-back injury kept him out of competitive cricket and the 2026 T20 World Cup. CWI Pressure & Planning: CWI president Kishore Shallow says the region is facing tough financial constraints but is building a sustainable, multi-revenue approach while staging a packed home schedule. Masters T20 Glory: Antigua and Barbuda Masters went unbeaten in Nevis to win the Leeward Islands Masters T20 crown, with Anthony “I-Roots” Martin’s 4/8 and Derek Mourillon’s unbeaten 51. Music Skills Boost: The Festivals Commission launches a free five-day Music Development Masterclass (June 8–12) at Eustace Hill, aimed at helping local talent level up for global careers. Tourism Momentum: Antigua and Barbuda is seeing a strong early-2026 travel surge, with stay-over arrivals up 6.7% in Q1.