Rum & Culture: Barbados’ Foursquare Rum Distillery leads the 2026 International Wine & Spirit Competition, taking five of the 12 rare Gold Outstanding medals as premium rum keeps winning global collectors. Tourism & Community: BTMI’s Rum & Rhythm Benefit at Caribbean Week in New York brought together Barbados tourism leaders and viral “besties” Candace Eng and Diana Prince, celebrating friendship and island pride. Public Health (Schools): The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Barbados launches a four-week campaign to curb junk food advertising around schools, warning that marketing is shaping children’s taste preferences even after ultra-processed products were removed from classrooms. Health Funding: Finance Minister Ryan Straughn says savings from a proposed $1.2b debt buyback will help fund health and nutrition programmes, including regional food security work. Crime Alert: Police are seeking Tonio Thelstone Garnes (“Blacka”/“Darkman”) for questioning in serious matters. Youth & Education: The Ministry of Educational Transformation pushes age-appropriate reading by year-end, while students are celebrated for letter-writing that boosts literacy and creativity. Health (STIs): Barbados reports rising syphilis cases, urging regular testing and safer sex. Workforce & Skills: Home Affairs explores upskilling with Coursera and NTI, focusing on digital capacity and leadership. Sports & Talent: Scotiabank Junior Monarch draws 47 entrants as young calypsonians and soca artistes gear up for performances.