As Anguilla prepares for the excitement, pride and fierce competition of the Anguilla Day Boat Race on Monday 1st June 2026, one local artist is ensuring that this year’s winning vessel will carry home more than bragging rights.

Renowned shell artist and craftsman Iwassi-I has donated a striking hand-crafted sculpture to be presented to the winner of the Anguilla Day race — a deeply symbolic work carved from wood and local conch shells, celebrating both Anguillian identity and the island’s enduring revolutionary spirit.

The piece, which took considerable time and skill to create, features a wooden map of Anguilla crowned with intricate conch shell artistry. A sailboat, sculpted from polished conch shell, races ahead while a dolphin appears in pursuit, frozen in motion behind it.

“The dolphin is trying to catch up to the boat,” Iwassi explained with a smile during an interview this week. “This goes to show that even a dolphin can’t catch up with the champion.”

The sculpture also incorporates an Anguillian flag crafted from conch shell, tying together sea, culture and national pride into one distinctive creation.
For Iwassi, however, the gift is about far more than artistry. It is an offering from the heart.
“It is for the boat itself, not the captain or the crew. So whoever is the owner of the boat will have this in their home,” he explained.
The respected artist, who has become known for some of the island’s most intricate shell sculptures and handcrafted jewellery, has created more than 150 pieces over the years. His work, often shaped from local seashells and conch, has earned admiration for originality and unmistakably Anguillian character.

Yet despite the value of the piece, Iwassi insisted that profit was never his motivation.

“This would be very expensive if I were to sell it,” he admitted. “But money isn’t everything. I would love to know that I can be a sponsor for whoever wins the race. When I do things like this, I feel happy.”

The Anguilla Day race holds special significance for him because of its connection to the island’s history and the Anguilla Revolution.

What followed was not simply a reflection on history, but a deeply personal account of survival, patriotism and growing up far too quickly.

According to Iwassi, he was only 11 years when he became involved in the Anguilla Revolution – describing himself as the youngest soldier during that period.

“I wanted to fight for my country and for my people,” he recalled.

At the time, his mother was living and working in St. Martin, leaving him largely to fend for himself in Anguilla. He remembers being taught from an early age how to cook, wash and iron — skills that forced him into adulthood long before his years.

He painted vivid memories of evenings during the revolution when neighbourhood children would be called home by their parents as darkness fell across the village. But no voice ever called for him.

Instead, he said he would wait for revolutionary figures, including Charles “Charlie” Fleming and others, to arrive so he could join them.

The memories clearly remain close to him decades later, helping explain why the annual Anguilla Day race is more than just a sporting event in his eyes. For many Anguillians, the races represent national pride and community celebration. For Iwassi, they are also a living reminder of sacrifice, resilience and belonging.

As boats prepare to battle across the waters this Monday, his handcrafted sculpture will stand as a symbol of those same values — local craftsmanship honouring local courage.

And while only one vessel will claim victory, Iwassi said his greatest wish is simply for the races to unfold safely and joyfully for everyone involved.

When three Anguillian sailors stepped aboard Night Shadow in Sorrento, Italy earlier this month, they were not arriving with the polished image or deep-pocketed support systems of the world’s elite sailing teams. They came instead with years of instinct shaped by Caribbean waters, a fierce love for the sea, and the quiet confidence that sailors from a small island could hold their own on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
Now, after an exhausting week of offshore racing, towering swells, sleepless nights and tactical battles against some of the most decorated sailors in the world, Kendal Richardson, Cheryl Webster and Thomas Maccow have returned home as world champions.

The Anguillian trio formed part of the Night Shadow Sailing Team, which secured the Class 0 Corinthian Division title at the prestigious ORC World Championship held in Sorrento, Italy from Friday, 8th May 2026 to Thursday, 14th May 2026. The regatta, staged as part of the internationally acclaimed Tre Golfi Sailing Week, attracted professional crews, Olympians and sailors connected to elite circuits.
For Anguilla, however, the victory carried a meaning that stretched far beyond silverware.
“This is our first time being represented at the ORC World Championships,” reflected Webster after the team’s triumph. She told The Anguillian newspaper “It’s about proving that we can compete at this level and that we do deserve to be in these rooms, even if we come from such a small island.”
The championship itself was relentless from the very beginning. The opening race alone covered 150 nautical miles and required crews to sail overnight through unpredictable conditions. Webster admitted that the reality of the challenge only fully settled in once the team arrived in Italy.
For sailors accustomed to Anguilla’s waters, the Mediterranean presented a very different kind of battlefield. Crews battled shifting winds, punishing seas and split-second tactical decisions where a single error could unravel hours of careful racing. Yet even after an imperfect opening race, Night Shadow managed to stay ahead of key rivals and position themselves for a serious championship run.
The days that followed became a test not only of sailing skill, but endurance.
Tuesday’s races proved decisive, with Night Shadow delivering what the crew described as one of their strongest performances of the week. By Wednesday, however, the margins tightened once more during a coastal race around Capri. After an impressive start and strong upwind sailing, costly tactical mistakes later in the race left the overall standings hanging in the balance heading into the final day.

The final races unfolded with powerful winds and 12-foot swells hammering both sailors and vessel. At one stage, the crew lost a gennaker sail overboard while attempting an aggressive manoeuvre. Precious time disappeared as sailors fought to recover the sail from the sea, but remarkably, they still managed to finish ahead of direct competitors.
By the last race, Night Shadow had done enough. Rather than gamble recklessly, the crew focused on bringing the boat home safely and they were officially world champions.
What made the accomplishment especially remarkable was the contrast between Night Shadow and many of the professionally funded operations surrounding them.
“We honestly felt like a ragtag team of sailors because none of us are actual professional sailors,” Webster said. “Meanwhile, most of the boats we’re competing against are professionals who are getting paid to sail and many of them are Olympians.”
While rival teams arrived with extensive technical crews and specialised support staff, Night Shadow often relied on improvisation and teamwork.
That underdog spirit resonates deeply with many back home in Anguilla, where sailing has long been tied less to luxury and more to heritage, craftsmanship and community identity.
“Boat racing is our national sport,” Webster said proudly. “It’s something that we’re extremely passionate about.”
She explained that Anguilla’s sailing culture differs dramatically from the glossy international image often associated with competitive yacht racing.
“The way we sail is very different. We build our own boats. We race heavy wooden boats with huge sails. It’s very grassroots and homegrown.”
For many Anguillian sailors, boats are not simply equipment — they are extensions of family and tradition.
“It’s not just a hobby for us. It’s our culture,” Webster continued.
That culture sparked curiosity throughout the regatta. Webster said race officials even encouraged the Anguillian sailors to proudly fly the island’s flag during the championship.
“It was beautiful,” she said. “People were asking questions about Anguilla and wanting to know more.”
The opportunity for the Anguillian sailors to compete on the world stage was made possible through sponsorship support from Port Nimara developers South West Harbour Inc., along with SF Marina and Equinox Hotels. The sailors also acknowledged the support of the Beaufort Yacht Club and its Anguilla section, with the victory marking the first world title associated with the club.

For Webster, however, one of the most meaningful aspects of the experience has been what it may represent for young people watching from Anguilla.
“I think it’s about the power of saying yes to opportunities.”
Now, after helping capture a world championship title thousands of miles from home, Webster hopes young Anguillians may begin to see sailing differently — not simply as a beloved local pastime, but as a gateway to the wider world.
“When we go into schools and talk to students, they’re amazed,” she said. “They’re like, ‘What do you mean sailing can take you all the way to Italy?’”
In the end, Webster insists the journey was never solely about winning.
“What would make me most proud is knowing that we finished strong, that we competed with ethics and discipline, and that we supported each other,” she said.
Still, she admitted with a laugh that victory carries its own satisfaction.
“It’s nice to bring some ‘hardware’ back to Anguilla.”
And perhaps that is what makes this achievement resonate so strongly across the island. In a championship crowded with global professionals, corporate backing and some of the sport’s biggest names, three sailors from Anguilla quietly reminded the sailing world that heart, resilience and culture can still carry a crew across even the roughest waters.

The sound of spikes striking the track, cheers rolling across the stands, and young athletes pushing themselves to the limit transformed the James Ronald Webster Park into a vibrant stage for Caribbean athletics on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, as the Full Stride Track Club hosted its 4th Annual Brown Bucket Track & Field Invitational.

What began four years ago as an ambitious local meet has steadily grown into one of Anguilla’s most anticipated youth sporting events, drawing athletes from across the region and creating a sporting atmosphere that felt far bigger than the island itself. Competitors from Anguilla, St. Maarten, Antigua and Barbuda and other neighbouring islands filled the park with energy and determination throughout the day, turning every sprint, jump and relay into a display of both talent and pride.

Yet beyond the races, the invitational made sure the spotlight also shone on the figures who helped build the foundation of athletics in Anguilla long before today’s generation stepped onto the track.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Full Stride Track Club President Rosanna Brown, who set the tone for the day, presenting the meet as far more than a competition.

Brown warmly welcomed the visiting teams, noting that their participation reflected “the unifying power of sport and the strong bonds among our Caribbean islands.”
The ceremony notably recognised two individuals whose contributions helped shape Anguillian athletics long before many of the day’s competitors were born – Susan Ione Smith and Rollins Richardson.

Widely regarded as one of Anguilla’s standout athletes of her generation, Ms. Smith’s achievements remain deeply woven into the island’s sporting history. While attending the Valley Secondary School, she emerged as an exceptional high jumper and later broke a record that stood for 17 years with a leap of 1.8 metres at just 17 years old.

In 1983, Smith and fellow athlete Trevor “Ras Bucket” Davis became among the first Anguillians to represent the island internationally at the International Amateur Athletic Federation level, now known as World Athletics, in Helsinki, Finland. The achievement marked a historic breakthrough for Anguillian athletics on the global stage.

She also excelled in softball, volleyball and windball cricket, earning recognition as one of Anguilla’s finest softball shortstops and power hitters.

Although she was unable to attend the ceremony, her son Shane Smith accepted the honour on her behalf.

Rollins Ronaldo Richardson — affectionately known as “RRR” — received recognition for decades of service to sports development in Anguilla as an athlete, coach, educator and administrator.

A certified World Athletics Level 4 coach, Richardson has played a major role in mentoring young athletes and helping many pursue opportunities both in sport and education. His work has extended beyond coaching into sports administration and programme development, helping strengthen the island’s wider sporting structure.

In his acceptance remarks, Richardson thanked organisers for ensuring younger generations understand “who were the pioneers of sports in Anguilla.” He also paid tribute to Susan Ione Smith, describing her distinguished involvement in sports and acknowledging her enduring influence.

The recognition of both honourees served as a reminder that the Brown Bucket Invitational is not only about medals and finishing times, but also about preserving the legacy of Anguillian athletics while inspiring its future. As young competitors prepared nearby for their events, the ceremony created a powerful connection between the pioneers who once carried the island’s sporting hopes and the next generation now stepping onto the track.

That theme of youth development and regional unity continued throughout the morning’s addresses. A representative from Liberty Cooperative Credit Union, the event’s main sponsor for the third consecutive year, praised the invitational for creating opportunities for young people to develop both on and off the field – describing the event as “a celebration of discipline, determination, teamwork, and community spirit.”

Hon. Minister of Sports Cardigan Connor also commended the organisers, coaches, sponsors and volunteers who have helped the Brown Bucket Invitational grow into a sustainable and respected fixture on Anguilla’s sporting calendar. He pointed toward the future, expressing the government’s desire “that in the very near future, we will take you to a stadium that is fit for purpose.”

The President of the Anguilla Amateur Athletic Association, Karim Hodge, echoed similar sentiments, praising the dedication shown by organisers over the last four years while encouraging participants to compete with integrity and embrace every event as a learning experience.

Before competition officially began, organisers paused for a moment of silence in memory of Mr. Carlton Pickering Sr. of KCN Television, remembered as one of the island’s most dedicated supporters of local sports coverage.

As the formalities concluded, Mr. Richardson declared the games officially open and within moments, ceremony gave way to action.

Young runners exploded from starting blocks, coaches shouted encouragement from the sidelines, and proud families crowded the stands as the next generation of Caribbean athletes seized their opportunity to compete.

The Brown Bucket Invitational was a reminder that athletics in Anguilla continues to grow through community effort, regional partnership and the determination of young people willing to test themselves on the track.

By Janissa Fleming

Mr. Leonce’s arrival to ANGLEC (Anguilla Electricity Company) takes place at a defining period for the company and wider Caribbean energy sector as we face unprecedented volatility that requires strong and transformative leadership. Across the region and internationally, electric utility companies are facing increasing pressure to modernize infrastructure, strengthen sustainability and resilience, through the integration of innovative operations and advancements in renewable energy to better navigate the rapidly evolving energy demands.
A national of St. Lucia, Mr. Leonce is an executive that brings decades of distinguished leadership and experience from across the electric utility industry, supported by a rare multidisciplinary background. His academic qualifications include degrees in Business Administration, Energy and Infrastructure Law, Engineering and Public Policy, and Energy Engineering Technologies. He also holds several internationally recognized certifications including but not limited to engineering, project management, maintenance management, electrical construction, and power-line systems. Throughout his career, Mr. Leonce has held several senior leadership positions including President and CEO of Westario Power Inc. in Ontario, Canada, President and CEO of Saba Electric Company N.V.in the Dutch Caribbean, and CEO/General Manager of Energyze Holdings Inc. in St. Lucia.

As ANGLEC continues advancing its long-term vision for grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and infrastructure development, the company is pleased to announce this appointment which closely follows ANGLEC’s recent renewable energy agreement signing with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), a major strategic development expected to support the company’s continued transition toward a more resilient, affordable and sustainable energy future for Anguilla.
“We look forward to Mr. Leonce expertise. He has some major lifting to do and the Board of Directors hope that over the coming years that he will make significant progress on what he has come to us to do, for ANGLEC and Anguilla,” noted Mr. David Carty (ANGLEC Board Chairman).

Organizations throughout the Caribbean, including CARILEC member utilities like ANGLEC, continue emphasizing the importance of future-focused leadership as the region evolves toward greater sustainability, energy security, affordability, digital modernization, and operational resilience. On his first day Mr. Leonce echoed this shift stating, “I want to firstly thank the Board, the Shareholders, Management and Staff for welcoming me to ANGLEC and [to] serve as the CEO of ANGLEC. It is an electric utility I have very much monitored over the years. I recognize the concerns the public has regarding the cost of electricity, and I believe the path forward will require us to remain focused and transparent through our communication as we make strategic investments and carefully plan for the coming years. I am confident that ANGLEC is moving in the right direction and as we look into the future, we must prepare ourselves for all that is ahead.”
ANGLEC now enters the next chapter with a strengthened foundation for strategic growth, technical advancement, and the continued evolution of Anguilla’s energy sector in an increasingly modern and demanding global landscape.

Representing Anguilla with grace, confidence and excellence, Miss Ca’Miyah Hughes delivered an outstanding performance at the Inaugural Miss Caribbean Paradise Beauty Pageant – held on Saturday 16th May 2026 in St. Maarten – securing victories in three of the four judged segments. Her historic accomplishment brought immense pride and celebration to the island as Anguilla claimed the first-ever title in the pageant’s history.

Upon her return on Sunday, 17th May, representatives of the Anguilla Festival’s Development Commission (AFDC) and the Anguilla Summer Festival extended heartfelt congratulations to Miss Hughes and her team for their dedication, hard work and exceptional achievement.

Chief Executive Officer of the AFDC, Ms. Amber Woodley, praised Miss Hughes’ success and reaffirmed the Commission’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for young people within the creative and cultural industries. Drawing from her own experience in pageantry, Ms. Woodley also encouraged Miss Hughes to continue pursuing excellence in the field, noting that this milestone could mark the beginning of an even brighter future.

Chairman of the Anguilla Summer Festival, Mr. Fitzroy Tomlinson, also congratulated Miss Hughes and acknowledged the strong cultural foundation and support system that contributed to her success.

Chairman of the Anguilla Festivals Development Commission, Mr. Romare Kelsick, likewise extended congratulations to Miss Hughes and her team on behalf of the Commission. He emphasized the AFDC’s commitment to fostering opportunities for young people to grow and excel in the creative and cultural sectors.

Mr. Kelsick further noted that the Commission takes great pride in supporting initiatives that allow young people to showcase their talents, creativity, and artistic expression. He commended Miss Hughes for making history as the inaugural winner of the Little Miss Caribbean Beauty Pageant and for bringing the crown home to Anguilla.

In her remarks, Miss Hughes expressed sincere gratitude to her family and everyone who supported her throughout the journey.

Her achievement stands as a proud moment for Anguilla and serves as an inspiration to other young people across the island to pursue their dreams with determination and confidence. Her success highlights the importance of continued investment in youth development, culture and the performing arts, while further showcasing Anguilla’s talent and excellence on the regional stage.

The morning of Thursday, May 7th, 2026, saw Anguilla’s former Minister of Education and Social Development, Ms. Dee-Ann Kentish Rogers, being admitted to the Bar of Lawyers. The swearing in ceremony took place in the Anguilla Circuit of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, in The Valley.

Making prime application with commendations on behalf of Ms. Kentish-Rogers was her aunt, Attorney Joyce Kentish-Egan, KC. Ms. Kentish-Rogers comes from a pedigree of solicitors. Her great aunt, the renowned late Dame Bernice Lake, QC; her Aunt Joyce Kentish-Egan, KC, and her cousins, Kerith, Kendrickson, and Nakishma, have all made their mark in the legal arena, making her a third generation solicitor. What’s more, her dad, Kenth Rogers, who resides in the Virgin Islands, is himself also a lawyer.

In petitioning the Honourable Justice Raulston Glasgow regarding Attorney Kentish-Rogers’ qualities and qualifications, Attorney Kentish-Egan testified in part: “This application is supported by the affidavit of the applicant, Dee-Ann Kendra Kentish-Rogers, who is over the age of twenty-one.

“She is a British citizen and a belonger of Anguilla, and here I hold exhibits that support that fact… She has earned a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Birmingham, as well as a certificate which evidences her call to the Bar in England and Whales by the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple.

“There is evidence that following her call to the Bar in England, she returned home to Anguilla, the place of her birth, and she did an aggregate of six months pupilage under your humble servant. During that period of time I can certify that she demonstrated the acumen, capacity and dedication to deal with the tasks that were assigned to her.

“Having taken a detour into public service; on May 26, 2025 she returned to the Chambers of Joyce Kentish and Associates and did a further pupilage under her cousin, Kerith Kentish.”

She continued: “I can say that the applicant is a person of good character, she has paid into the treasury, she has not been required to pay any fines, she has no convictions, and a copy of her Police Certificate is evidence of that…Her application is further supported by an Affidavit of Identity submitted by Senior at the Bar, Ms. Yvette Wallace.”

Attorney Kerith Kentish, the applicant’s cousin, also commended her to the Honourable Justice Glasgow. “Your Lord, I respectfully rise to present this application before this Honourable Court on behalf of my cousin, Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers, to be admitted as a barrister/solicitor in the Anguilla Circuit of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

“Your Lord, I do so with enormous pride and confidence and a profound sense of personal joy. I am here today not only as Council Kerith Kentish, but as Dee-Ann’s cousin, and truthfully one of the first sisters I have had in this life of forty years.

“I have known her all my life, Your Lord. I have known her in childhood; in mischief; in triumph and in disappointment; in public life; in private life; and most recently in her pupilage. I have had the privilege from May 26th, 2025 until now of helping to guide her formal entry into this noble profession…

“Dee-Ann was a member of the Literary Debating Society while attending the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School. She joined early, she excelled, and she represented Anguilla with distinction throughout the Leeward Islands. She was adjudged the Best Speaker in Tortola in 2011, and led the Anguilla team to victory in 2012 while being the President of that Society…

“She was raised in a family of lawyers, and indeed she was much closer to the law that I ever was… Dee-Ann was born on January 13th 1993, and by August of that same year, there was already a playpen for her in her mother’s office at Lake & Kentish Chambers in The Quarter. Dee-Ann’s day-care was in chambers; her after-school programme was in chambers; her playground was in chambers; the lawyers and staff at Lake & Kentish all played a role in raising her…My Lord, it is therefore fair to say that Dee-Ann was raised by the profession itself.”

Mr. Kentish also outlined Dee-Ann’s qualifications relative to her Specialist Mediation training and her Bachelors Degree which she attained from her schooling in the UK, as well as her achievement in making history in 2018 as the first black woman to be crowned Miss Universe Great Britain.

Words of commendation and congratulations were also extended to Dee-Ann from another cousin of the legal cloth in Antigua, who made a brief address via video feed. Kendrickson Kentish, KC, also spoke to how Dee-Ann had grown up, naturally, within the law.

In responding, His Lordship Justice Glasgow accepted the application and then invited Attorney Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers to come before him to take the oath. With the Holy Bible lifted in her right hand, she swore: “I, Dee-Ann Kendra Kentish-Rogers, make oath and say that that I will well and faithfully demean myself in the performance of my duties as a barrister of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Anguilla Circuit to the best of my ability and knowledge, so help me God.”

Following the oath, Ms. Kentish-Rogers was fitted with the Barrister’s Robe by her Cousin Kerith Kentish. A special welcome and acceptance speech was delivered by President of the Bar Association, Ms. Merline Barrett. Many of her colleagues rose to offer sentimental remarks and congratulations for Ms. Kentish-Rogers joining the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Anguilla Circuit.
By: James R. Harrigan

The courtroom was formal, the robes pressed, the language ceremonial. But beneath the decorum of Wednesday morning’s Special Sitting of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, the occasion carried a recognition that Anguilla’s justice system is operating under strain, and that the arrival of an experienced judge comes at a critical moment.

On 29th April 2026, members of the judiciary, government, the Anguilla Bar Association and more gathered to formally mark the assignment of His Lordship, the Honourable Justice Raulston Glasgow. He had officially assumed office on 1st April.

Justice Glasgow brings nearly 30 years of legal experience across the Caribbean. Called to the Bar in Guyana in 1999 and later in Saint Lucia, his career has included private practice, legislative drafting, and senior advisory roles within Attorneys General chambers in Saint Lucia and Grenada. Since joining the High Court bench in 2017, he has developed a reputation for independence, strong legal reasoning, and a willingness to hold the State accountable where constitutional principles demand it.

For many present, his appointment was seen not simply as a routine judicial posting, but as a potential turning point for the administration of justice in Anguilla.

Attorney General Ms. Rachel Spearing, KC, acknowledged the weight of the moment in her address, noting that Justice Glasgow’s arrival coincides with a difficult period marked by recent incidents of violence. She stressed the importance of restoring public confidence in the justice system.

Quoting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she reminded those gathered that “true peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice.” Without the supremacy of law, she warned, society risks disorder. Her remarks underscored a central message of the Sitting: justice must not only be delivered, but seen and trusted.

Ms. Merline Barrett, President of the Anguilla Bar Association, painted a detailed picture of Justice Glasgow’s judicial record. She described him as disciplined, precise, and firmly committed to fairness.

She highlighted his expertise in constitutional and administrative law and referenced several landmark decisions, including rulings that protected workers’ pension rights, struck down corporal punishment despite constitutional challenges, affirmed the right to be heard, and exposed weaknesses in environmental oversight and government transparency.
Taken together, she said, these decisions demonstrate a judge prepared to apply the law rigorously and to hold public authorities to account when necessary. She also noted his commitment to legal education, mediation, and professional development within the legal community.

Members of the Bar echoed support while offering their own perspectives. Mr. Thomas Astaphan, KC, emphasised judicial independence, warning against any executive interference and urging vigilance in protecting that principle.
Ms. Yvette Wallace described Justice Glasgow as steady and disciplined, setting high professional standards in court while Ms. Eustella Fontaine of Fontaine & Associates welcomed him in the spirit of Caribbean legal unity and shared values.
Ms. Nakishma Rogers of KCW Carty & Rogers highlighted his influence on younger attorneys, describing him as a “old school” jurist who demands preparation, discipline, and respect for the court. Mr. Carlyle Rogers reflected briefly on fairness and integrity as the foundation of judicial service. Representing the junior Bar, Mr. Theon Tross expressed optimism that his leadership would strengthen the profession.
When Justice Glasgow rose to respond, he began with humour, noting that after the praise he felt like he was having “an out-of-body experience… wondering, who’s this chap?”
His tone soon shifted to reflection.

“It is a humbling occasion,” he said, “to be dressed in these robes, to adjudicate on matters of justice.” He emphasised that judicial robes are not symbols of status, but of responsibility – describing the purpose of the justice system as broader than dispute resolution alone. “It’s about ensuring that the state does not condescend into violence,” he said, noting that responsibility is shared across the judiciary, Bar, law enforcement, and wider justice system.
One of his most poignant remarks reframed the role of legal professionals, describing them as “glorified servers of justice… in the business of serving the public.” The focus, he suggested, must remain on the people who depend on the courts for fairness and resolution. While affirming judicial independence, Justice Glasgow cautioned that independence should not be mistaken for isolation. Effective governance, he argued, requires cooperation between institutions, even as constitutional boundaries are maintained. Dysfunction, he suggested, often arises not from collaboration, but from its absence.

He also set firm expectations for the legal profession. Preparation, discipline, and professionalism, he said, are non-negotiable. “I don’t accept shoddy work because I don’t accept shoddy work of myself,” he stated.

A significant portion of his address focused on legal reform. He pointed to outdated legislation and procedural inefficiencies, urging urgent modernisation of the system. “This is 2026. We have to get on with it,” he said, calling for mechanisms to reduce delays and improve access to justice.
His comments reflected concerns long expressed within the legal community about case delays and procedural bottlenecks affecting the efficiency of the courts.

Yet amid institutional themes, Justice Glasgow also offered personal reflection. He described his appointment as “almost a homecoming,” referencing family ties to Anguilla. He paid tribute to his father, acknowledging the sacrifices that shaped his journey in law.
As the sitting concluded, a broader sense emerged that Anguilla’s justice system stands at an important juncture. The challenges it faces — from delays to public confidence — are immediate and widely felt.
In Justice Glasgow, the island has gained a jurist with extensive regional experience, a strong constitutional record, and a clear focus on reform. However, as speakers repeatedly emphasised, meaningful progress will depend not on one individual alone, but on the collective effort of the entire justice system.

The Department of Education (DOE) is saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Carlton Pickering. Mr. Pickering joined the Department of Education on 3 June 1996 as the first male Education Welfare Officer and only the second individual to serve in this role in Anguilla. He quickly demonstrated a natural aptitude for the work and became a valued member of the then-emerging student support services team.

Quiet, serious, and deeply respectful, Mr. Pickering brought to his role a strong sense of purpose shaped by his faith and community involvement. He served for a time as Associate Pastor at New Covenant Wesleyan Holiness Church in Stoney Ground, and this grounding was evident in his compassionate and thoughtful engagement with students and families. Many young male students—particularly those who were frequently absent from school and lacked positive male role models—were drawn to him. His influence contributed to the development of a more gender-responsive approach to education welfare services within the Department.

Among his contributions was the introduction of a Savings Club for students and their families, inspired by traditional community-based saving systems. This initiative reflected his practical approach to support and his understanding of the broader social factors affecting student participation and well-being.

Throughout his eleven-year tenure, Mr. Pickering also nurtured a deep interest in broadcasting, video journaling, and media production. He occasionally took unpaid leave to pursue this passion, which led to the establishment of Kreative Communications Network (KCN) along with its flagship programme, Anguilla Diary Magazine.

As his media work expanded, Mr. Pickering increasingly looked forward to retirement so that he could devote more time to this growing enterprise. He retired from the Department of Education in August 2007; however, this was not the end of his involvement in Education Welfare.

Even after his retirement, Mr. Pickering remained actively engaged with the work of the Education Welfare Unit, maintaining strong collaborative relationships and demonstrating an enduring commitment to student attendance and well-being.

For example, in September 2020, in observance of Attendance Awareness Month, he supported the “SOCK It to Truancy” initiative involving all six primary schools. Students were asked to attend on time and were encouraged to wear bright socks to show their commitment to timely attendance. Invited to address students at the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School, Mr. Pickering readily accepted and delivered a heartfelt message on the importance of regular and punctual school attendance. In a spirited show of support for the initiative, he spoke with his pants rolled up to display his vibrant socks, fully embracing the theme and connecting meaningfully with students.

His commitment extended beyond the event. He later recognized students at the Vivien Vanterpool Primary School who achieved outstanding attendance—95% and above—by presenting them with beautifully crafted plaques, celebrating their dedication and encouraging continued excellence.

Mr. Pickering consistently expressed a desire to remain involved in education welfare initiatives, and his continued interest and support were deeply appreciated by staff at the Education Welfare Unit and the DOE.

The Department of Education extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Carlton Pickering. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and in his pioneering contribution to student support services in Anguilla.

There was a time in Anguilla when the only surveillance system we knew was Miss Iris by her window and Uncle Leon sitting on his gallery after 6 p.m. If you went “dung South Hill doin’ X, Y and Z”, rest assured somebody’s aunty saw you. In many ways, that still holds true. We pride ourselves on being a small island where everybody knows everybody — or at least knows somebody who knows them.

And yet, in recent years, that familiar refrain has rung hollow when it comes to crime.

To repeat that Anguilla has experienced a noticeable rise in criminal activity, particularly gun-related incidents, may feel like labouring at this point. But it is a reality that has unsettled the national psyche. For all our supposed closeness, when shots ring out or vehicles speed from a scene, the silence that follows can be deafening – yet often complicated. Loyalty to friends or family, fear for personal safety, and lingering mistrust in institutions can sometimes make speaking up feel risky even with the anonymous reporting avenues the Royal Anguilla Police Force has in place. Still, there is a growing sense that neighbourly watchfulness alone is no longer enough.

Enter CCTV.

Many banks, supermarkets and private businesses have operated their own camera systems. What we have not had are government-operated surveillance cameras mounted across public roads and spaces as a permanent fixture of island life. That is now set to change.

At a Government press conference – held on 23rd March 2026 – the Hon. Minister Jose Vanterpool revealed that a “major technical meeting” had taken place involving MICUHITES, Finance, the Royal Anguilla Police Force, I.T. and E-Government Services and Digital. The focus was not merely on putting up cameras, but on finalising system specifications — camera locations, backup power, data storage and AI analytics — with an eye on strengthening security ahead of the Anguilla Summer Festival.

Importantly, the Minister acknowledged a truth often lost in heated debates: “We know that cameras themselves don’t stop crimes. But when crimes do take place, it’s a source of evidence.” That distinction matters. CCTV is not a magical shield; it is a tool. Its value lies less in prevention and more in detection, deterrence and accountability.

The proposed system goes far beyond grainy footage stored on a hard drive. Automatic number plate recognition is among the features being considered. As the Minister explained, cameras must have sufficient frame speed to clearly capture a vehicle in motion and the ability to zoom at distance. In practical terms, if police receive a report that a black car fled a particular area between certain times, officers could filter footage to identify all black vehicles passing that point within that window.

There is also talk of AI-driven pattern tracking. At large public events — J’ouvert, for example — cameras could monitor crowd behaviour and flag unusual changes that might indicate conflict before a 9-1-1 call is ever placed. Rather than relying on an officer to manually scrub through hours of footage, artificial intelligence could assist in highlighting moments of concern. As the Minister noted, previous temporary carnival cameras required constant human monitoring — a resource Anguilla simply does not have in abundance.

Around the world, CCTV has become a standard feature of modern life. Cities like London are often cited as among the most surveilled in the democratic world, with extensive public camera networks used to assist policing and counter-terrorism efforts. Studies in the United Kingdom have shown that CCTV can have a modest but meaningful impact on certain types of crime, particularly vehicle-related offences in car parks. However, research has also suggested that cameras alone do not significantly reduce violent crime without broader policing strategies and community engagement.

That nuance is important for Anguilla. We are not London. We do not have millions of residents or sprawling underground networks. We are a small island of just over 15,000 people, where familiarity and informality shape daily life. The psychological shift may be as significant as the technological one.

Some residents will likely welcome the added layer of security, particularly in the wake of incidents that have shaken public confidence. The knowledge that there is an objective record — that a vehicle’s licence plate can be traced, that movements can be reconstructed — may offer reassurance.

Others will understandably raise concerns about privacy and overreach.

To that end, Minister Vanterpool indicated that consultation has already begun with the Attorney General’s Chambers and that legislation will be required to govern access and data protection. “Not everyone will be able to access the recordings,” he said, emphasising that protocols will dictate who can request footage and under what circumstances. The cameras, he stressed, will be deployed in public areas and are “largely for the protection of the public”, not for intrusion into private lives.

Still, the boundaries will need to be clearly drawn and transparently communicated. Who stores the data? For how long? Under what legal threshold can footage be accessed? Will AI be able to make detections accurately? What safeguards prevent issues? In larger jurisdictions, data protection laws and independent oversight bodies help answer such questions. Anguilla will need frameworks suited to our scale but robust enough to inspire confidence.

In the initial phase, 30 locations across the island are expected to receive cameras. The exact cost has not yet been disclosed.

So, what does all this mean for us?

It means Anguilla is stepping into a new era — one where our traditional social surveillance is supplemented by digital oversight. It means that the phrase “somebody saw you” may increasingly refer not just to a neighbour, but to a lens mounted above a junction.

Will we get accustomed to it? Likely, yes. Around the world, public CCTV has moved from novelty to normality within a generation.

But acceptance should not equal complacency.

If CCTV is to become part of Anguilla’s landscape, it must do so with clarity of purpose, legal safeguards and measurable outcomes. We should ask not only whether cameras are installed, but whether they lead to improved detection rates, swifter justice and ultimately, safer communities.

Technology can support policing, but it cannot replace trust, cooperation and the moral courage to speak up.

By Janissa Fleming

Judith Berglund Carmichael
June 21, 1935 – February 21, 2026

Our beloved mother, Judith B. Carmichael “Judy” passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026 surrounded by her family. She was 90.

Judith was born in Youngstown, OH to Eleanor and Ernest Berglund. Judith was preceded in death by her husband, Paul D. Carmichael, Jr. They enjoyed 63 wonderful years together.

Judith has left behind her children, Sherry C. Killion of Wesley Chapel, NC (husband T. Christopher Killion), Kristen C. Olsson of Cupertino, CA, Paul D. Carmichael lll (Chip) of Missoula, MT (wife Malou), and Nevin S. Carmichael of Polruan (Cornwall) United Kingdom, (wife Jane Walker). Judith and Paul shared 9 grandchildren. Family was Judith’s greatest joy.
Judith attended Carnegie Tech (now Carnegie Mellon University). Paul was the first person Judith met on campus. He helped direct her to her dorm when moving in. Judith majored in Home Economics. She became president of her sorority, Kappa Kappa Gamma and sang with the Cameron Choir. Judith and Paul married after graduating from college. During their married life, they lived in Ohio, New York, Kentucky, Connecticut, and finally settled in California. Judith and Paul gathered friends far and wide.
While living in Wilton, CT Judith was active in the Wilton Congregational Church where she served as a deaconess, Wilton Garden Club, and DAR. She was president of both the Wilton Garden Club and DAR for several years. Judith owned her own business, Topiary Designs. Judith and Paul both supported their children’s numerous activities with hours of time given to horse shows, Boy Scouts, Wilton Wahoos Swim Team, many community clubs, hosted the neighborhood Weiner Roast and much more. Judith created a home that was the center of the neighborhood where everyone was welcomed. Her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens were admired by all. Judith was amazing in the kitchen. She loved animals. The house and barn were always full of beloved creatures.

Once relocating to California, Judith had more time to get back to her passion of sewing, giving to others, traveling the world, activities with her friends and Cupertino Senior Center.

Judith and Paul spent 6 months of the year at their vacation home in Anguilla, BWI where they developed wonderful friendships. They cherished every moment there. The Craft Group in Anguilla was a special love of hers. Judy and Paul supported AARF, the Youth Sailing Association and funded scholarships for island students in addition to many other organizations.

Judith most recently resided at MorningStar Assisted Living. A whole new set of friends, both residents and staff became like family. She enjoyed every day to the fullest. Fun, laughter filled meals at “the round table of 8” (or as many more they could squeeze in), crafts, card games, entertainment, movies and outings made her later years extra special.

Judith was an inspiration and light to all with her grace, endless kindness, positivity, inclusion of others, open hospitality, her huge smile, and caring heart. She smiled from her eyes. She is greatly missed by everyone who knew her.

Her memorial will be held in Anguilla at a future date. Friends and family are welcome. The family asks that donations to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, shfb.org, be made instead of flowers or other gifts.

On Thursday, March 5th, I had the privilege of delivering an impactful session on “Teamwork: The Role of Gender in Team Performance and Development” to a cohort of 18 trade union leaders from across the Caribbean. This facilitated session was a focal point of the recent Trade Union Education and Gender Education Workshop hosted by the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT).

My presentation provided a deep dive into how gender dynamics operate within the workplace, outlining actionable strategies to achieve equitable team balance without relying on traditional stereotypes.

Rather than a standard lecture, the cohort was highly instrumental to the session’s success. The participants actively engaged with the material, sharing their unique regional views through robust discussions and collaborative group work. Together, we navigated critical frameworks and regional data, focusing on:
• The Basics of Team Development: Utilizing Tuckman’s stages of development (forming, storming, norming, and performing), we highlighted how societal expectations and gender norms actively influence conflict resolution and team cohesion.
• The Caribbean Context (2020–Present): We placed a spotlight on regional disparities. While women in the Caribbean outpace men in educational attainment by 86%, their labour force participation lags by over 20%. We identified the “unpaid care gap”—where women spend up to three times more of their day on domestic labour—as a systemic barrier that prevents women from taking on the extra, unpaid ‘hustle’ often required to reach top leadership roles.
• Gender’s Influence on Teamwork: We unpacked the divide between ‘task’ roles (driving projects forward) and ‘maintenance’ roles (organizing schedules, taking notes, keeping the peace). Society often conditions women to take on these vital yet invisible maintenance roles, which are frequently overlooked in promotions.
• Leadership Styles: We emphasized the need for diverse teams to balance both transactional and transformational leadership styles to truly thrive.
• Barriers to Gender Equity in Teamwork: We discussed implicit bias and stereotyping, the double burden, microaggressions, and a lack of sponsorship.
• Implications on Team Performance: We examined the loss of diverse perspectives, decreased morale and engagement, and inefficient talent utilization.
• Strategies for Inclusive Team Development: We explored actionable steps, such as defining roles by skill rather than stereotype, rotating maintenance tasks, implementing structured communication, and fostering continuous awareness.
• The Role of Educators and Unionists – Moving Forward: Finally, we addressed the crucial role educators and unions must play in breaking down these barriers to shape a more balanced future.

My experience
Although I attended the workshop as a presenter and an executive of the CUT Status of Women’s Committee, the experience was truly a two-way learning opportunity. Connecting with 18 leaders from across the region reminded me that, despite our different islands and systems, we share many of the same concerns as educators and trade unionists.

The conversations we had strengthened my belief in the importance of unionism within our organizations. Our unions give us the collective voice we need to advocate for fair compensation, equitable policies for both men and women, and safe working environments where teachers are protected from harassment and burnout. One issue that came up repeatedly was educator mental health. It was a powerful reminder that, as leaders, we must work together to close the gaps and actively support our teachers’ well-being.

I am sincerely grateful to the Caribbean Union of Teachers for giving me the opportunity to participate in the Education and Union workshop. The experience has helped me grow both as a union member and as a leader.
Perhaps the biggest lesson I took away was the value of networking. Building relationships across the region strengthens solidarity, allows us to learn from each other’s advocacy strategies, and fosters genuine camaraderie. I look forward to sharing what I learned with our local union so that we can continue working toward stronger collaboration, better recognition of the invisible workload teachers carry, and a more inclusive and supportive organization for everyone.

On the afternoon of Sunday, March 1st 2026, the Government of Anguilla hosted a special service in Honour of the late James Ronald Webster, widely regarded as the “Father of the Nation”.
This memorial event took place at the Church of God (Holiness) and was held in recognition of what would have been Mr. Webster’s 100th birthday, which was celebrated on the following day, Monday, March 2nd as a public Holiday. The national hero was born on March 2nd 1926.
The Ecumenical Service brought together patriots from all across the island, including members of the clergy, elected officials, members of Mr. Webster’s family and members of the wider community. They had come in a spirit of unity to pay homage in appreciation for Mr. Webster’s daring exploits in the quest for political freedom for Anguilla through his fierce fight in the 1967 Anguilla Revolution.
In delivering the Call to Worship, Pastor Gareth Hodge alluded to the song “Stand up Stand up for Jesus”, which he cited as the song that Mr. Webster himself had customized into an anthem of sorts, during informal events when he would gather his foot-soldiers and supporters to strategize his revolutionary plans. That song was lustily sung as an opening hymn for the ecumenical service.
Reverend Lindsey Richardson of the Methodist Church delivered Reflections and a Prayer: “One hundred years ago a child was born,” he reflected. “His parents were happy and perhaps anxious a little; one hundred years ago a child was born, and like any other ordinary child, these parents had no clue of what the future would hold for him; one hundred years ago a child was born. Little did anyone know that he would not only be a man, but he would be a man who would hear a call from the cries of his people for him to be courageous and take a stand. It was a call to stand up for his people, for his country and for his God. It was a call to take a stand against injustice and political disrespect.
“It was a call,” the Reverend said, “that enabled him to gain the admiration and respect of his own people – a people whom he rallied around himself; a people whom he challenged and motivated to stand up with him. He was chosen to lead, and so he led.”
Rev. Lindsey’s fervent prayer expressed hearty thanks to God for the life of Mr. Webster. He acknowledged that God had chosen him, called him, and ordained him to lead and liberate his people into a life of freedom from political bondage and oppression. He prayed that, like Mr. Webster, the people of Anguilla would be inspired to first give of themselves to God, and to offer themselves in service for each other.
The First Scripture Reading was designated to be read by the Leader of the Opposition in the House of Assembly, Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster, but due to his absence was read by Opposition Member, Haydn Hughes. The passage came from Exodus 3:7-17. It gave a vivid account of Moses leading God’s people out of dreadful Egyptian bondage, akin to Mr. Webster leading his people out of an age of dark dismay to light and liberation.
The Second Scripture Reading taken from Hebrews 11:1-10 and James 2:17-20 and was delivered by the Honourable Premier, Cora Richardson-Hodge. This passage speaks to the kind of bold faith that Mr. Webster would have possessed as he ventured to take the glaring risks and make the costly sacrifices that would have set The Revolution in motion.
The sermon entitled “Anguilla Needs Another Revolution” was preached by the Church’s leader, Pastor Phillip Gumbs. He called on Anguilla’s people, and men in particular, to lead the young people, especially young men, even as Mr. Webster led. He called on responsible Anguillians to lead our youth away from destructive traits and ill-fated lifestyles.
Quoting from a documentary on Webster, Pastor Gumbs relayed a message that is profound: “Mr. James Ronald Webster is often remembered as the protagonist of The Anguilla Revolution. One reason for this is that many consider him to have demonstrated the prototypical features of a hero marked by bravery, sacrifice, conviction risk-taking and moral integrity for an honorable purpose,” the writing relates.
One attractive highlight of the service was the singing of the patriotic song, “Anguilla My Home” written by Pastor Gumbs in 2007 and melodiously sung by him and members of his family. The immaculate lyrics call to mind the oppressive conditions under which Anguilla existed prior to The Revolution and the new day that broke forth through the dawn of The Revolution. It calls upon God to end all forms of oppression and make the nation truly prosperous – a land where “faith, love and peace” will reign.
The only daughter of Mr. Webster, Parlona Webster Reece, paid a special tribute in writing to the legacy of her Dad: “On this national celebration,” she wrote, “let us honour him not only with words, but with commitment – commitment to our unity.” (Parlona’s entire tribute is published elsewhere in this edition.)
With regard to the aspect of “unity”, per se, Dr. Timothy Hodge made a stunning observation as it pertains to Anguilla’s Coat of Arms. He noted that while the Coat of Arms pride three dolphins, it depicts only two virtues, namely: “strength” and “endurance”. However, he suggested that there be room for a third virtue, which is “unity”. “These three elements,” he proposed, “would then go along well with the dolphins to make the emblem complete.” He therefore suggested that legislation be put forward to effectively amend this.
Towards the end of the service, Pastor Cecil Gumbs offered an intercessory prayer. In it he thanked God for protecting Mr. Webster and his foot-soldiers in times of impending danger and for keeping the brave stalwarts safe during the time of fearsome The Revolution. “And though we have drifted from all that you have done for us,” he acknowledged, “and though we are not as grateful as we are to be, Lord we ask you in the name of your son, Jesus, to forgive us.”
The service was then brought to an end with the vibrant singing of the revolutionary song, “Onward Christian Soldiers”.

By: James R. Harrigan

When Carl Webster, Jr. (CJ) walks through the streets of Anguilla, you don’t need to see his face to be able to point him out. The first thing that stands out is his quintessential Indiana Jones-style hat. It is a symbol of the adventure that has defined his passion from an early age for uncovering, preserving, and sharing the rich history of his island.

CJ’s fascination with Anguilla’s past started at home, even before he could fully grasp the significance of the island’s history. Growing up, his father Carl Webster, Sr., would share stories and lessons that he learned from CJ’s great grandfather, Ranny Webster (Pappy). “My dad would always start his life lessons with the phrase ‘as the old people would say…,’” CJ recalls. “He’d tell me everything Pappy told him. Naturally, I started wondering, ‘If my Dad knows all of this, what else is out there for me to learn?’

As CJ listened to his father’s recollections of people, places, events, and even trees planted decades earlier, he began to see the island in a new light. “The stories he told gave me a personal attachment,” CJ explained. “You realize how close everything is and how connected you are to it.” Through those shared memories, CJ understood the dramatic differences between his and his father’s generation. He has come to appreciate his own upbringing with modern amenities which contrast sharply with his father’s life of tending animals, fetching water, and after all that was done, walking to school.

For him, discovering Anguilla’s history became an adventure. He likens it to the exploits of Indiana Jones: “Like in the old-time movie—Indiana Jones, he would go out exploring and gathering information. That’s how it started for me¬¬, information gathering.”

Yet this passion goes beyond exploration. It is driven by a sense of urgency. CJ worries about the parts of Anguilla’s past that are fading from memory: pre-Revolution Anguilla, Arawak sites and practices, significant landmarks, maritime trade history, unique slavery practices, traditional ways of life, and Anguilla’s place in the region’s aviation industry. He has a concern for long standing trees that silently bear witness to centuries of change. “Imagine if a tree could talk,” he says. “It would tell you stories of life in Anguilla hundreds of years ago.”

He continued: “Of Anguilla’s history, most people can only recall the Revolution, but even its true meaning has been lost or politicised. Few remember the salt-making era, the migration of families to places like Curacao and Trinidad, or the lives of those who refused to leave the island during difficult times.” He also noted how modern life has changed daily practices and relationships with the environment: “Back then, people relied on livestock and gardening for food, and on large trees, which were cut down for shipbuilding and fuel. Now, everything is Americanised, and traditional ways are fading.”
CJ sees history as a guide for the future. His message to young people: “You need to know where you come from to know where you are going.” For him, understanding the past helps communities make better decisions and appreciate the richness of their heritage.
Preserving Anguilla’s history, CJ argues, requires more than passion and curiosity; it requires action, funding and active participation. He is an advocate for stronger legislation to protect historical buildings, landmarks, and trees, and for active community participation in passing oral traditions to the younger generations. “The more heritage is embraced by the population and younger generations, the more it survives,” he says.

Finally, CJ sees the preservation of history as a tool for understanding identity and guiding the future.
CJ’s journey into Anguilla’s history started with family storytelling, curiosity, and a desire to know more about his history, and became personal through the tangible connections he made to places shared through his father’s stories. His desire is to preserve and share the past before it’s lost––reminding us that history isn’t just about dates and events—it’s about people, stories, and connections that shape our identity.

They came to Anguilla for a funeral. Not the kind of trip anyone plans with excitement—flights to arrange, black clothing and sadness folded into suitcases, conversations heavy with memory. Grief brought our family together, but once we were here, we realized that though this moment was born of loss it was also an opportunity––an opportunity to ensure that younger generations feel connected to this place we call home.

Some were visiting for the first time. Others had been away for far too long. We wanted them to see Anguilla—not the postcard version, but the Anguilla that shaped us; the one that existed before paved roads and modern conveniences. To take us on this journey, we reached out to our cousin Carl Webster (CJ). CJ is young, but as we learned over the course of a few hours, he carries a deep knowledge of Anguilla’s history. He rattled off dates, names, and events with ease, pointing out ruins, former plantations, old wells, and forgotten spaces hidden beneath brush. What might have look like overgrown land to us, he described as living chapters of our island’s story.

Time was short, so we made the most of it. We stopped at the Miriam Gumbs Home to visit Daddie (Eldridge “Coo” Webster)—biological father to some of those visiting, but ‘Daddie’ to us all. Though CJ did not speak much there, history still found its way into the conversation. Coo shared stories of his days of sailing between the islands taking produce and bringing back supplies and other goods to Anguilla.

We visited the Old Courthouse which now holds the Heritage Museum Collection. While we were unable to experience a full tour of the facility, we stood in a space that became deeply personal to our family. One of our ancestors, Augustus “Chappy” Vanterpool, spent time in the lower level of the courthouse––as a prisoner. We shared stories and learned of Chappy’s adventures including his daring breaks from the prison on more than one occasion.

CJ explained how changes had been made to the building over the years. We saw where prisoners were once held. He described the physical constraints they endured; the thick walls––made from local limestone rock, the strategic layout, and separation of spaces––each telling their own story of a bygone era.
We lingered there longer than expected, imagining how our great-great-grandfather must have felt. He was tall, so we joked that perhaps he simply stepped through a window to make his escape. But beneath the laughter was something more complicated—a clearer understanding of the choices that led him there and the confines he existed in. In that moment Anguilla’s history was personal.
From there, we made a short visit to Wallblake House, walking the grounds and exploring nearby ruins. There is something about ruins that forces one’s imagination to fill in the blanks. We shared our thoughts on how workers may have moved among those spaces serving those who live at the house.
As the sun began to set, CJ took us to an area in South Hill––the Hughes Plantation. Not all of us ventured into the bush, but we were all struck by something else entirely—how much more mature CJ seemed in just those few short hours. His passion for the island’s past was unmistakable.

By the end of the day, something had shifted. We still admired the beaches and the hotels that draw visitors to our island. But we were reminded that Anguilla is more than sand, sea, and sun. It is more than stone foundations and overgrown fields. It is the preserved and unpreserved plantation houses. It is oral stories carried forward—by young people determined not to let them fade. It is home.
We were not able to visit every site CJ had planned, but what began as a week of sadness ended with us feeling more grounded. We left with a deeper understanding that while Anguilla continues to evolve, its history stands—not as a relic, but as foundation.

In next week’s issue, we will share CJ’s views on preserving and sharing Anguilla’s history.

By Kareen Rogers

The Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Kendisha Hall-Prentice to the position of Chief Marketing Officer, effective January 16th, 2026.
This milestone appointment marks the first time an Anguillian has been appointed to the Chief Marketing Officer role at the ATB. This reflects the Agency’s continued investment in strengthening local leadership and advancing a modern performance-driven marketing agenda for the destination. Mrs. Hall-Prentice brings a strong foundation in hospitality and tourism marketing, hospitality education, destination management, and entrepreneurship, alongside a deep personal commitment to showcasing Anguilla’s culture, people, and world-class tourism product on the global stage.

As Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Mrs. Hall-Prentice will provide strategic leadership to strengthen Anguilla’s brand positioning and marketing performance, supporting integrated destination marketing initiatives that elevate awareness, increase demand, and deepen engagement across priority and emerging markets. The CMO role is pivotal to ensuring Anguilla’s brand remains competitive and cohesive across communications, trade and public relations, content and storytelling, and digital and creative marketing, while maintaining strong alignment with the Anguilla Tourist Board’s broader tourism objectives.
“This appointment represents a proud and meaningful moment for Anguilla. Having the first Anguillian serve as Chief Marketing Officer at the Anguilla Tourist Board reinforces our commitment to empowering local talent at the highest levels and strengthening the national capacity needed to compete globally,” said Mr. Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Tourism and Sports. Minister Cardigan Connor further expressed that, “Mrs. Hall-Prentice brings passion, expertise, and a strong understanding of our destination, and I am confident her leadership will support continued growth and elevated marketing performance.”
In underscoring the importance of the Chief Marketing Officer’s role, this appointment marks a meaningful progression in strengthening performance-driven destination marketing and modernizing the agency’s approach. The Director of Tourism, Mr. Jameel Rochester stated that, “the Chief Marketing Officer’s role is central to building a more strategic, and innovative marketing function, which accelerates brand growth, deepen stakeholder partnerships, and ensures our marketing investment delivers measurable results, while remaining true to the authenticity and excellence that defines Anguilla.”
In expressing her interest in the position, Mrs. Hall-Prentice emphasized her dedication to Anguilla and her belief that the island’s unique product should be shared globally in a way that is both innovative and sustainable, supported by collaborative leadership and creative marketing strategies.

“Anguilla is more than a destination—it is a feeling, a standard of excellence, and a place that captures hearts the moment you arrive. I am deeply honored to serve as Chief Marketing Officer and to champion a destination I genuinely love. I look forward to working with our partners and stakeholders to elevate Anguilla’s global brand, drive meaningful demand, and firmly position the island as the number one destination in the Caribbean. The opportunity to tell Anguilla’s story with authenticity, innovation, and pride is one I embrace wholeheartedly,” Mrs. Hall-Prentice said.
Prior to joining the Anguilla Tourist Board, Mrs. Kendisha Hall-Prentice built a strong foundation in tourism and hospitality, with experience extending to destination marketing and promotions, brand development, and stakeholder engagement. Her work has been grounded in strengthening market visibility, enhancing visitor experiences and engagements, and supporting strategies that drive measurable results for the tourism sector.
Mrs. Hall-Prentice also brings valuable private sector perspective, having worked alongside industry partners and tourism stakeholders to advance business development and elevate service standards aligned with premium destination positioning. She is further supported by academic and professional training in tourism and marketing, reinforcing the analytical, strategic, and creative skillset required to guide a forward-looking, high-impact marketing roadmap for Anguilla.

At Four Seasons Resort and Residences, we are committed to identifying and developing talent and this 2025/2026 Season, we are proud to share that three (3) employees thus far have been promoted to supervisory or managerial positions.
We wish to recognize and congratulate all our employees on their upward movement and specific mention is made of the following:

Tiffany Moore – Tiffany joined the Team as a Greeter in 2019. In 2021, Tiffany then joined the Food and Beverage Department as a Hostess and in 2023, transitioned to the Sales and Marketing team as the Social Media Specialist. Tiffany has now assumed the role of Marketing Supervisor.

Kishma King – Kishma began her journey with Four Seasons in October 2016 as a Front Desk Agent and transitioned to several roles, including Concierge, Greeter, and Overnight Agent. She subsequently joined the Reservations team as Group Reservations Specialist. She has now been promoted to the role of Executive Administrative Assistant.

Alecia Rawlins – In 2016, Alecia joined the Team as a Cook 3. In 2022 she was promoted to Cook 2 and quickly elevated to Chef de Partie that same year. Alecia has now been promoted to the role of Sous Chef.
We are also delighted to welcome new talent to the management team, namely, Katie Hawkins as the Assistant Guest Services Manager.

We are extremely proud of our employees, and we remain committed to their success.

The name “Menes” invariably strikes a note of fond familiarity for a man of high honour in the Anguillian community. As a consequence, the morning of Friday, January 30th saw a show of solemn support and love as all-and-sundry converged at the Pro-Cathedral of St. Mary in The Valley to pay their last respects to the life of this noble man, Reverend Father Vanier Menes Hodge.

Rev. Father Menes Hodge was truly “a man of the cloth”. According to an extract from the pages of his Formal Remembrance his profound and enduring legacy was within the Anglican Church, where he had answered the call of God with humility and resolve.

The funeral service began with several video presentations dedicated to the Reverend’s memory and snapshots of reflections on his life were read from his eulogy by two of his sons, Arnie and Trevor.
The reflections spanned a scope of history that chronicled the Reverend’s childhood; his upbringing; his education; his diligent apprenticeship as a carpenter, then as an Agricultural Officer in the Public Service; his dedication as a Customs Officer; his professionalism as a Director of Broadcasting at Radio Anguilla; his loyalty as a Principal Assistant Secretary in the Chief Minister’s Office; and his epic service as a devoted member of the Rotary Club.
Rev. Father Menes Hodge was an avid Commissioner of Scouts, and attained the Silver Acorn award for prolonged service in Scouting. He was naturally “always prepared” even as the Scouts Motto dictates. It was this mode of preparation that caused him to answer the call of God in 1975 as a Lay Reader in St. Mary’s Anglican Church, becoming ordained to the Diaconate in 1993. He further advanced the call of God into Christian service through his ordination to the Holy Priesthood in 1996.

His funeral service proceeded as undertakers wheeled his casket up the aisle, led by opening sentences pronounced by the Right Reverend Ernest Flemming, Bishop of the Diocese of the North Eastern Caribbean and Aruba, accompanied by Priest in charge, Canon Reid Simon. The hymn “How Great Though Art” was sung, followed by the first scripture reading delivered by Reverend Hodge’s daughter, Menesa Campbell, Esq.

The singing of Psalm 23 preceded the second reading by his son, Vanroy Hodge. The Combined Choir then melodiously sang Richard Smallwood’s signature song “Healing”. The Gospel from St. John 14:1-6 was read by Canon Reid Simon. Reverend Hodge’s younger brother, the Venerable Valentine Hodge presented the sermon. Prior to delivering the actual sermon, however, he conveyed words of comfort to the children of Reverend Hodge from the extended family.

“I am sure I would be speaking on behalf of everyone here today, together with those sharing in the various media, in extending our most sincere condolences and the assurance of our prayers to Menes’s four children, Ash, Trevor, Vanroy and Menesa and their families. At the same time, we wish to remember with gratitude his wife Britannia, deceased, and his daughters Joy and Mathis who have preceded their dad in death.
“Condolences go out also to his siblings, Elvese in Texas, Stafford in Virginia, Joycelyn in the UK and Roy of the Virgin Islands who is with us here today.”

“Recently I found on Facebook,” he continued, “where someone was lauding the ideals of family life, saying that there is nothing like family. That is a sentiment which I would readily endorse.” “I wish that more people would recognize the value of family bonds and the need for unity within the family.”

Archdeacon Emeritus Valentine Hodge reminisced growing up with Menes, and he reflected upon the youthful days of their development, especially their experiences in riding a 2-horsepower Triumph Tiger Cub motorbike. He spoke about the many falls they sustained and said, “We both learnt how to recover from falling only by falling. By falling off that bike several times, we eventually learnt what balance feels like. And people who have never fallen are actually riding life off balance.”

Then, focusing on the sermon, he elaborated on St. John 13: 12-15. He explained how Jesus, the master teacher, taught his disciples the valuable lesson of Christian service, demonstrating the lesson of humility. He explained that as Christ washed the feet of His followers, He required them to wash one another’s feet, likewise, even as he was humble enough to wash theirs.

“My Brothers and sisters,” he charged, “more and more in our world today we need people who are willing to serve others rather than to be served. We need more persons who are willing to wash the feet of others rather than just to have their own feet washed.”

“It is for this reason that service above self should become the motto of all Christ-like people,” he stressed. “So we see that Father Menes’ life was characterized by service to humanity. And in this way he tried to imitate his Master, our blessed Lord.”
Following the sermon, the Holy Communion was offered, followed by the Prayer of Thanksgiving, A Hymn (Lead Us Heavenly Father Lead Us), The Commendation, the Nunc Dimittis, and The Blessing. The final hymn sung was “To God be the Glory”. The interment took place at a plot, just a stone’s throw from the church building.

As a tribute to his fatherhood, his surviving children have borrowed a line from the pen of Focus on the Family’s James Dobson: “A Good father will leave his imprint on his children for the rest of their lives.”

May his soul rest in perpetual peace.

Anguillian-born technology professional Dexter Gumbs has launched Polliglot AI, an artificial intelligence-powered translation platform designed to help creators, educators, students, businesses and organisations break language barriers and reach global audiences more effectively.

Polliglot AI enables users to upload a video file, select a target language, and receive a translated video with accurate subtitles or translated audio in just a few steps. The platform supports multiple languages including English, French, Spanish, Hindi, Tamil and others, with additional languages being added as the service expands. The name is derived from the word “polyglot,” meaning a person who speaks multiple languages, reflecting the platform’s purpose of enabling communication across language barriers through artificial intelligence and global connectivity.

The platform is web-based and built on Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) infrastructure, ensuring secure storage, encrypted uploads and downloads and fast processing times. The platform also prioritizes user privacy and data protection. To access it, search www.polliglot.ai in a web browser.

A 30-day free trial is available for any of the 4 plans namely the basic, the pro, the enterprise and the pro enterprise. No hidden charges exist and users can test the platform before committing. Every plan includes AI-powered video translation, speech recognition and subtitling, cloud storage via AWS and encrypted uploads and downloads. The company offers multiple subscription tiers designed to support individual users, teams, and enterprise-level needs, with varying features and support options. Persons interested in utilising the services of Polliglot.ai can locate pricing and other information on their website.

Mr. Gumbs, who currently resides in the United States, has more than a decade of experience in information technology, cloud computing and artificial intelligence systems, primarily working with Amazon Web Services (AWS). Over the years, he has been involved in designing and supporting large-scale cloud applications and has operated an online IT training school offering professional certification courses. Mr. Gumbs believes that since Anguilla is labeled as the “home of AI”, we should maximize the label and while his creation is the beginning, he looks forward to helping other Anguillians grow and innovate in the AI realm.

Recently, Mr. Gumbs extended his work to Anguilla by providing artificial intelligence training opportunities to young Anguillians, awarding scholarships to students preparing for internationally recognised AWS certification exams. Several participants successfully completed the programme, marking an early step toward building local technical capacity in AI and cloud technologies.
Mr. Gumbs said the idea for Polliglot AI was driven by the growing demand for multilingual video content and Anguilla’s global recognition as the home of the “.ai” domain.
“Video is now the primary way people communicate online,” Gumbs said. “Polliglot AI allows Anguillians and global users alike to share their stories, businesses, and educational content with the world in multiple languages without needing expensive translation teams.”

From an Anguillian perspective, the launch of Polliglot AI represents a move toward developing practical artificial intelligence products linked to Anguilla rather than relying solely on domain name revenue. Mr. Gumbs has indicated plans to continue expanding AI education initiatives and has outlined future projects in areas such as healthcare technology and autonomous marine systems, with the long-term goal of creating technology-based employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for Anguillians.
“I want young Anguillians to see that artificial intelligence is something they can build, not just something they use,” Mr. Gumbs said. “It’s a real industry that can create jobs and allow people to stay in Anguilla.”

For more information, contact support@polliglot.ai or WhatsApp +1(240) 926-6678.

By: Rhonica Connor

Shockwaves rippled across Anguilla on December 10, 2024, as news of the sudden passing of Vernon Leroy Gumbs spread throughout the island. Known affectionately as “Leroy,” he was a devoted Christian, a respected community figure, and the visionary founder of one of Anguilla’s leading construction firms.

Leeward Construction Co. Ltd, under his leadership, helped shape the physical landscape of Anguilla. Among its many accomplishments are some of the island’s most notable infrastructure projects, including the new Blowing Point Ferry Terminal, the airport cargo building, and the stage facility at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre.

With his unexpected passing came a wave of sorrow—and an inevitable question: What would become of the company he built, especially with critical projects already underway?

A hallmark of great leadership is preparing for continuity, and in this regard, Mr. Gumbs ensured that his legacy would endure. Leeward Construction was never left to chance. Instead, it remains not only operational but moving forward with purpose and stability.

For nearly 40 years, Mr. Gumbs ran the company alongside his wife and co-founder, Mrs. Denease Gumbs. Over the past year, she has continued to guide the organization with strength and vision, now joined by their son and newly appointed Managing Director, Denroy V. Gumbs.

Denroy is no stranger to the company’s inner workings. Having spent years working alongside his parents across various departments and construction seasons, he has long been deeply involved in the day-to-day management and strategic operations of the firm. His transition into leadership reflects both preparation and promise.

Together, Mrs. Gumbs and Denroy are carrying forward the Leeward Construction legacy, supported by a dedicated leadership team, including lead foreman and emerging contractor, Ruvin Richardson, who was groomed by Mr. Gumbs for over fifteen years. The company’s supervisors, field workers, and administrative staff continue to uphold the standards and reputation that have defined the Leeward Construction brand for decades.

Even as the organization navigates the natural uncertainty and grief that follow such a profound loss, its work presses on. Current efforts include multiple active projects and the ongoing construction of the Patience Gumbs Road—known locally as the South Hill Road.

In every task and every finished structure, the team honors the memory of Vernon Leroy Gumbs. Leeward Construction Co. Ltd remains steadfast in delivering what he championed throughout his life: “Quality and Speed”.

The new directors of Leeward Construction have created the Leroy Gumbs: Leeward Legacy Educational Grant. This grant will empower aspiring construction professionals ages 18-35 to provide financial assistance in achieving their career goals. The need to fund interested persons address the growing demand for skilled talent in the construction industry.

This fund will provide financial assistance to persons who are interested in pursuing tertiary education in areas of general construction, interior and exterior design, architecture and engineering. Persons desiring a trade certificate are also eligible.

We are therefore seeking your assistance and partnership in meeting this need. No contribution is too small. You can deposit your gift to any one of the accounts listed at Liberty Co-operative Credit Union or make a direct transfer.

USD ACCOUNT#14965-17
ECD ACCOUNT#14965-07

Thank you for your kind consideration and being a part of this endeavour. We are eternally grateful.

On the evening of Sunday December 7th 2025, on the beach front, just north of Elvis Restaurant and Bar in Sandy Ground, Avenella K. Griffith introduced to the public her second and newest book in the series Sandy Ground Tales. This new edition, entitled “Fishermen”, portrays a collection of fisher-folk stories indicative of the way of life that historically characterized the quaint sea-fearing village of Sandy Ground – the locality of Anguilla’s commercial seaport.
Through “Fishermen” Avenella relates the experiences of two outstanding Sandy Ground fishermen, namely Edwin “Ed” Carty and Aristo Richardson, as well as – to a lesser extent – Sam Webster, from the eastern fishing village of Island Harbour. And, by virtue of her admiration for the culture on which the sea-loving villagers thrive, Avenella pays tribute to all fisher-folk of Anguilla who are known for providing sustenance from the sea for their families, friends or free enterprise.
At the beginning of the ceremony, Pastor Lesley Richardson, Avenella’s pastor, offered a prayer of thanksgiving for the writing talents of the author. The playing of the National Song was then rendered by renowned saxophonist, Elliot Gumbs.
Moderator of the Ceremony was KCN-TV’s personality, Rosanna Browne, who gave some sterling commentary on “Fishermen”, and applauded Avenella for the fine quality of her new production: “Through these stories, Avenella gently reminds us of her resilience, humility, courage and community spirit – qualities that have always anchored the people of Sandy Ground,” Ms. Browne noted. “In ‘Fishermen’, her work also adds historical meaning, capturing a way of life that is both timeless and evolving, ensuring that future generations could come to know and appreciate the people who cast their nets, not only into the sea for a catch, but into the heart of this island’s cultural identity,” she added.
Congratulatory remarks also came from Ms. Susan Hodge, the Secretary of the Anguilla Fisher-folk Association: “On behalf of the Anguilla Fisher-folk Association, I want to recognize and sincerely thank Avenella for capturing these stories. If we do not write our own stories,” she opined, “someone else will write them for us, and we may no longer be the heroes of our stories.”
The Department of Youth and Culture was instrumental in the publishing of “Fishermen”. Its Director, Avon Carty, also conveyed congratulatory commentary: “Today, I am honoured and excited to be able to bring remarks and congratulations on behalf of my Permanent Secretary, Dr. Bonnie Richardson-Lake, and my team at the Department of Youth and Culture.”
“We have a small budget,” she acknowledged, “but it is still enough to help our local authors write our stories. We want to make sure that when our children read, they are not only reading about ‘windy willows and rivers’ that we can’t relate to, but it is important for our children to read our own stories. Avenella has given us this opportunity, as a people, to have our own stories written in our own voices,” Ms. Carty claimed.
Also on hand for the launch was Pastor Phillip Gumbs of the Church of God (Holiness) who is a close acquaintance and affiliate of Avenella. He was chosen to present a snippet of the first story from the pages of “Fishermen”, which was a horrific tale of one dreadful day when a few of Sandy Ground’s fishermen chanced to ply in the waters called The North, where other fishermen before them had feared to tread.
To Sandy Ground’s fishermen, The North had presented itself as a kind of invincible Goliath, and on one particular morning in the 1960s, three brave fish-hunters took on the challenge to venture out in The North – in the ominous waters of the Atlantic. But when they failed to return home within a reasonable timeframe, the entire Sandy Ground community got worried and feared The North had devoured them. Sadly, the three had never returned.
So, Pastor Gumbs read: “The North seemingly besieged the Sandy Ground fishermen and filled their hearts with fear. Like Goliath he defied them as if to challenge ‘Ah yuh come out here, if ah yuh so bad!’ His challenge seemed valid, until early one morning, Ed, that one fearless Sandy Ground fisherman, arose to take on the dreaded North. Five hours later, there were great shouts and applause across the village to welcome Ed and his two fellow fishers back into The Bay. Like David, with one throw, Ed had knocked out Goliath cold, cold and chopped off his head…”
Mrs. Rita Celestine Carty, one of Anguilla’s more prolific writers, was designated to present a review of the book.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the second book in the Sandy Ground Tales series is here,” she said. “Avenella K. Griffith has brought out ‘Fishermen’, highlighting the inspiring fishing exploits of Messrs Ed Carty and Aristo Richardson. We know them well, and we love them deeply. But this knowledge and this affection are now lifted to a higher level…We had her book ‘Boatmen’, and once again in ‘Fishermen’, Avenella K. Griffith ensures that stories of Anguilla and its incredible people are indelibly recorded…”
“In this collection of stories,” Mrs. Carty observed, “Avenella reveals the authenticity and rhythm of the language and the idiom. In the first story, the “jargon or fishing lingo tantalizes our ears even when we are not sure of the meaning of her terms like coble boats; sweeps; live-well; frilling the boat; and transom. The themes highlight in true old-fashion the Anguillian traditions of working hard to own your own and looking out for your own…”
Then, in presenting her extensive address, Avenella stated in part: “Thanks to God for Sandy Ground. Here is where I grew up, and I think it is the best. I thank God for depositing in me the privilege to write, so that in generations to come our young ones can read Sandy Ground Tales.”
“This village has hundreds of stories,” she said, “and I give God thanks for allowing me to publish “Fishermen”, the second one in the series, after ‘Boatmen’ which was published back in 2021.” After elaborating much on the journey which brought her to this destination, Avenella voiced her sincere honour and gratitude to all who assisted her in the project in one way or another.
She thanked all of her friends and associates who had helped to make the book become a reality, and she expressed her appreciation to all those who had contributed behind the scenes to make the launch of “Fishermen” such a success, as well as to all who had come out on the Sunday evening to show their support.
Avenella delightfully presented complimentary copies of “Fishermen” in respect of three individual fishermen, who had played an indispensible role in providing her with information for the creation of the book. These included the renowned sea-fearing stalwarts, Ed Carty and Aristo Richardson, as well as William “Uncle” Connor (deceased) whose book was accepted by his caregiver, Marzena Connor, on behalf of his son, Keith in Australia.
A prayer of blessing on the book was offered by Pastor Lindsey Richardson. At the end of the ceremony, several persons went forward to purchase a copy, as well as to patronize the author herself who had creatively made provision for the sale of Anguilla’s “roas fish on de wire”; fried fish; bar-b-qued fish; fish cakes, fried cakes; “roas corn”; johnny cakes; and good “ole-fashioned sugar ‘n water” – familiar delicacies from Anguillian culture.

By: James R. Harrigan