Cuba Solidarity in Barbados: The Barbados-Cuba Friendship Association is urging CARICOM to explore Cuba’s inclusion as a member state, arguing it would boost regional unity and help ease the impact of the US blockade, with a picket held outside the US Embassy. Public Health Watch: Barbados health officials are investigating suspected scarlet fever at a St Michael primary school after two children tested positive for streptococcal infection; the CMO says there’s no need for public alarm. Sugar & School Food Push: Health advocates applaud reduced-sugar beverage reformulations and point to the 20% sugar-sweetened tax as a nudge toward healthier drinks, while a new campaign targets unhealthy food marketing around schools. Health Funding Plan: Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says savings from a proposed debt buyback will help fund health and nutrition initiatives, including behaviour change and regional food security. Early Learning Expansion: Universal free pre-primary education for eligible three- and four-year-olds is set to begin in September, with officials stressing it’s structured learning, not daycare. Tourism & Culture: Royalton Vessence Barbados opens as an adult-oriented all-inclusive on the Platinum Coast, and Barbados’ rum continues to shine internationally with Foursquare Rum Distillery winning multiple Gold Outstanding medals at the IWSC. Youth & Literacy: The Ministry of Education targets age-appropriate reading levels by year-end, alongside financial literacy and nutrition activities at St Lawrence Primary’s open day. Community Notices: Police ask the public to help locate wanted man Tonio Thelstone Garnes.