Cruise & Tourism: Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas docked in St. John’s, bringing a full day of port activity for vendors, taxi drivers, tour operators and shopkeepers as passengers split between beaches, Nelson’s Dockyard and local shopping. Regional Tourism Value: A study by CV Villas ranked Dhigurah (Maldives) among the world’s top valuable beaches—useful context for how coastal assets are marketed globally, with Grace Bay (Turks & Caicos) also featuring high in the list. CPL Cricket Business: Republic Bank CPL confirmed broadcast partners for 2026 and set the season start (7 Aug), while drone shows are planned at Arnos Vale before key matches featuring Antigua & Barbuda Falcons. Carnival 70 Planning: Antigua Carnival leaders discussed how to lift Carnival 70’s global profile—pushing mas as a major draw and exploring more celebrity pull while protecting local identity. Policy & Compliance: The EU has asked Antigua and four other Eastern Caribbean states to phase out CBI programmes by June 1, 2028, warning Schengen visa-free access could be at risk. Energy & Industry Funding: IRENA opened a funding call for renewable projects across the Caribbean, including Antigua and Barbuda, covering generation, clean transport and green industrialization. Health Support: The Calvin Ayre Foundation, with MBS, backed urgent overseas cardiac treatment for Ulysis James in Martinique. Community Safety: Search efforts for missing woman Shenett Jacobs continued with drones, K-9 units and volunteers around Brown’s Bay/Nonsuch Bay.