Cruise Tourism Boost: Rhapsody of the Seas made its first 2026 summer call to St. Kitts’ Port Zante, bringing about 2,360 passengers and kicking off nine scheduled visits that help keep the region’s tourism humming in the off-season. Youth & Women’s Leadership: Gender Affairs Executive Director Jamie Saunders says Antigua and Barbuda needs more than appointments—real mentorship, structured pathways, and genuine inclusion so young people and women can shape decisions. Carnival Spotlight: The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission unveiled the 2026 Queen of Carnival contestants and sponsors, with sashing ceremonies and a call for confidence as the season builds. Pageant Update: Miss Abigail Piper won’t attend Miss Caribbean Universe due to visa/travel issues, but will represent Antigua and Barbuda at the Miss Caribbean Beauty and Intelligence Pageant in August. Regional Training & Skills: Antigua and Barbuda will host an OECS specialised services sector training programme from June 29 to July 2, aimed at strengthening knowledge, policymaking, and negotiating skills across the region. Health & Community Support: SLBMC reports 1,074 pediatric emergency visits so far in 2026, while the Lions Club of Antigua and Cool & Smooth donated a refrigerator to support Zion Church of God’s feeding programme. Blue Economy for Kids: World Ocean Day activities included a mural campaign with primary school pupils, plus a separate art contest that turned children’s ocean visions into a public mural. Education Wins: Sandals Foundation and Hands Across the Sea expanded literacy support to 1,192 students across five schools in Antigua, strengthening lending libraries and resources. Police Training: The Chief Magistrate addressed police recruits on court procedures and the Child Justice Act, stressing integrity and professionalism.