Msjmc Confirms Sixth Covid-19 Death See Page 3

FRIDAY 15 JANUARY 2021 | ISSUE 178 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG MSJMC CONFIRMS SIXTH COVID-19 DEATH SEE PAGE 3

Photo caption: Antigua and Bar- buda’s newest member of the legal profession and son of Attor- ney General Steadroy Benjamin, Kevon Benjamin, was admitted to the bar at a colourful ceremony held at the High Court on Thursday before Justice Iain Morley, QC.

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Double celebration for NIA Mentor Award CalvinAir helicopters the Benjamin family attracts scores of assisting with submissions monitoring St. Vincent volcano

Editorial: For whom the bell tolls Page 2 FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 EDITORIAL PAGE 2 FOR WHOM THE BELL TOLLS Queen Thalia has thee, thing that defines a insular actions, we produced what That’s my guaran- person. Yes, human are certain to en- many believe to tee!” beings will fall but counter it tomor- be one of the best the measure of a row. The world is a Kaiso of the mod- A cursory glance person can never be cycle, and a vicious ern era. Inspired by through the time- in the fall; it is al- one at that! a sermon various- lines of many social ways in that simple We have a choice: ly titled “No Man media sites reveals act of acknowledg- we can choose to- is an Island” and an uncomfortable ing the fall, getting day to be kind, “For Whom the Bell truth about humans, up, dusting one- supportive, and for- Tolls” penned by the and particular- self off, and show- giving; or we can great English cler- ly some in Antigua ing a willingness to choose the polar gyman, metaphysi- and Barbuda. There start again having opposites. Whichev- cal poet and schol- is a certain amount learned from the er road we choose ar, John Donne, of schadenfreude experience. there will be con- Thalia’s “My Guar- that seems to raise Instead of consequences, but we antee,” released its head whenever stantly reminding have the power in and performed in there is an unfortu- persons of their our hands to ensure 2016, captures the nate report on some shortcomings, where that those conse- essence and quin- issue. It is almost has that true Anti- quences are the tessence of that as if some salivate guan and Barbudan ones we would de- homily in the chorus on the very thought spirit of encourage- sire for ourselves. when she croons: that another is ex- ment and support As Queen Thalia “No man is an periencing misfor- gone? Are we so admonishes, “Life island, by himself tune. mean spirited that is dynamic and is an entity, Wisely, Queen we cannot “overlook subject to constant We are each Thalia warns that the blindness of change; we never part of a larger “no man is an is- the narrow-minded know how our lives cosmic corporate land, by himself people on the nar- will have to be re- body. an entity.” We are row-minded street”? arranged. So when Life is dynam- all connected; and you hear the bells ic and is subject to while today it might As a people, we are tolling from constant change; be another’s turn, have to get to a on top the church We never know just know that one place where we un- do not stand up how our lives will day the bell will toll derstand that if we proud on your lofty have to be rear- for all of us. As old sow the wind, we perch.” It is a call ranged. people used to say, will surely reap the to arms, for today So when you “When you see your whirlwind. The things is for your neigh- hear the bells are neigbour house pon we encourage and bour but tomorrow tolling from on top fire, wet foo you!” cultivate are the might just be for the church Indeed, some are very same things you. Let us endeav- Do not stand quick to engage in that will afflict us our to change this up proud on your a culture of tearing in the future. Again, negative narrative lofty perch: down, instead of as old people used of relishing the toll- Ask not for building up. Seldom to say, “You can’t ing of the bell for whom the bells tolls do they miss an op- plant corn and reap another. Ask not for If you happen and portunity to remind pi-tay-tay.” If today whom the bell tolls hear and see another of their we encourage and as one day that bell ‘Cause one past failings, as if cultivate envy, ha- will surely toll for day it go toll for the past is the only tred, nepotism, and us. PAGE 3 LOCAL NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 MSJMC confirms sixth COVID death Antigua and Barbu- shared vigilance against da has recorded its sixth COVID-19, the very seri- COVID-related death. ous consequences the vi- The Mount St. John’s rus can carry with it, and Medical Centre (MSJMC) the measures we all need confirms that a ninety-five- to take to stop the spread year-old male is the coun- and break the chain of try’s sixth COVID-19 related transmission. death. The case has been “Our best response re- reported as a non-import- mains a strong health re- ed death. sponse. If we get it right, In a statement, the MS- we will ultimately shake off JMC reported that at ap- restrictions faster and all proximately 8:00 p.m. on get back to some level of 12th January the patient normality in our lives.” was brought into the Emer- As with any confirmed gency Department, com- COVID-19 case, the rele- plaining of shortness-of- vant public health officials breath. A COVID-19 test will initiate contact-tracing. done at the hospital re- Meanwhile, the Ministry vealed he was positive. The of Health announced eight patient’s condition contin- new laboratory confirmed ued to worsen and he sub- COVID-19 cases in Anti- sequently succumbed to gua and Barbuda as of the illness the following day Wednesday 13th January (13th January) at 4:15 a.m. 2021 at 6:00 p.m. “Our thoughts are with Subsequent to the pub- his family and communi- lication of the dashboard ty at this time of loss and for Tuesday 12th January grief,” said Dr. Albert Dun- 2021, with the cut off time were negative and seven Meanwhile, four recov- can, MSJMC Medical Di- of 6:00 p.m. one hundred were positive, while of the eries have been recorded, rector. and seven samples were one hundred and two pro- bringing that total to one “I acknowledge the anxi- processed at the Mount cessed by CARPHA, one hundred and fifty-six. ety Antiguans may be feel- St. John’s Medical Center, hundred and one were Consequently, the to- ing about the recent news, which increased the pend- negative and one positive. tal number of persons both in the wider coming results from one hun- Two of the new cas- with laboratory confirmed munity and also for the dred and two to two hun- es are imported while six COVID-19 cases in Antigua loved ones grieving over dred and nine. are non-imported. Inves- and Barbuda is one hun- this death. Wednesday’s Of the one hundred tigations are ongoing and dred and eighty-four (184); sad news again reinforc- and seven processed by contact tracing and testing which is inclusive of twen- es the importance of our the MSJMC, one hundred is in progress. ty-two (22) active cases. FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 4 Two people face charges for violating quarantine regulations Less than twenty-four quarantine restrictions, The Ministry of Health electronic bracelets to hours after the new elec- reported that two peo- said such violations are assist with monitoring of tronic bracelets have been ple were tracked by the immediately handed over those individuals who have placed into service, two bracelets, which they must to the police to deal with. been mandated to under- people have been caught wear as a condition for It is believed that the two go a period of quarantine violating the quarantine undergoing the quaran- will appear before a mag- as part of anti-COVID-19 guidelines. tine. istrate to answer a charge measures. Minister of Information, The minister reported of violating the quaran- The move became nec- Melford Nicholas, whose that the individuals were tine established under the essary following numerous ministry set up the mon- traced to the Village Walk state of emergency. reported cases of viola- itoring system to ensure mall. Their identity was not The government has actions reported to the au- strict adherence to the immediately known. quired some five hundred thorities. Rotary Club donates computers The Rotary Club of in the schools,” he said. Antigua has donat- In related news, the ed one hundred and St Johns Lodge #492 ER eighty computers to the has made a cash dona- Antigua and Barbuda tion to the Rotary Club Hospitality Training In- of Antigua Sundown. stitute (ABHTI) as part During a brief han- of its Computer for the dover, Rotary President World Programme. Julian Wilkins accept- The presentation took ed a check which was place on the Institute’s handed over by Imme- compound in the pres- diate Past Master Lt. ence of Rotarians, fac- Col. Edward Croft. The ulty members and stu- donation of $9,450.00 dents. was given to form a During the presen- part of an ongoing tation ceremony, co- Club project to focus ordinator of the pro- on disease prevention gramme, Cordel Josiah, and treatment and wa- explained that, “Over ter sanitation. the past eleven years According to Lt. Col. the Rotary Club of Croft, having seen the Antigua in partner- efforts of the club to ship with the Bellevue promote proper hand Breakfast Rotary Club washing and good hy- of Washington State giene within many of have conducted a proj- the nation’s schools ect called ‘Computers and Public Library, his for the World.’ To date, organization felt the we have donated over call to make a contri- three thousand com- bution to further the puters and hundreds of efforts and at the same printers to over sixty time foster friendly re- schools in Antigua and lations between the or- Barbuda, and have set ganizations and make up over fifty fully net- a positive impact on worked computer labs society. PAGE 5 LOCAL NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 Double celebration for the Benjamin family

Antigua and Barbuda’s his brother Damien Benja- the bar on the 40th an- to join “this honourable newest member of the min (along with Lawrence niversary of his father’s profession” and he gave legal profession, Kevon Daniel) and seconded by formal entry into the le- a firm commitment to live Benjamin, was admitted me. It is a confirmation of gal profession. “I am hon- by its ethics. “I will not lose to the bar at a colour- all I have worked for as oured to be called to the sight of the profession’s ful ceremony held at the it now means that upon bar exactly 40 years af- uncompromising virtues High Court on Thursday leaving office, my sons ter you were called on and traditions. I am well before Justice Iain Morley, and I would be able to the 14th January, 1981. It is aware that the profession QC. practice from our own easy to understand why can be a rewarding one. The event, usually a law firm,” a clearly emo- January 14th is now my However, it comes with proud moment for the new tional Benjamin stated. favorite day of the year. its challenges and when lawyer and family, took The Attorney General Without you dad, I would I take the pledge, I vow on special significance as has urged his sons to ad- not have made it through to deliver legal services it marked forty years to here closely to the princi- law school, period. It is to the standard of a rea- the day of the call to the ples of the legal profes- because of you that I am sonable, competent attor- bar of his father, Attorney sion, and code of ethics. strong enough and pre- ney-at-law who practices General, Steadroy ‘Cutie’ “There’s nothing better pared to walk into my God in Antigua and Barbuda,” Benjamin. than honesty, commitment ordained purpose. Dad is he declared. The senior Benjamin was and a deep sense of car- the most determined and Justice Morley inquired called to the bar on 14th ing for the other man. By principled person I know. whether young Benjamin January, 1981, and he was doing the best we can, I His attention to detail is had a desire to practice gushing with pride when know that we can help extraordinary and the dili- criminal law. He advised he addressed the court to make Antigua and Barbu- gence he displays is note- the ‘newly-minted’ law- second the application of da and safer, better place worthy; he truly loves the yer that while the money Kevon Benjamin. “This is for all of us,” he remarked. law and applies its princi- is made ‘sitting behind a the proudest moment of In his remarks, Kevon ples in his everyday life,” desk,’ that it was in crim- my life; my son’s applica- Benjamin also expressed Kevon stated. inal law that lawyers de- tion was co-sponsored by delight in being called to He said he was happy velop their skills. FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 6 Bar Association to open office

The Antigua and Bar- association’s ability to we can better prepare the office will open for buda Bar Association carry out its mandate. ourselves to deal with some five hours dai- is looking to step up “The reason to open national issues,” he ex- ly in the initial stages its effectiveness when the office is for the plained. and it will be manned it opens an office by members of the public Johnson noted that by an executive sec- the start of next month. to interact with mem- one of the objectives retary. The operations Bar association pres- bers of the Bar. Over of the Bar Association, of the office will fall ident, Lenworth John- the years there have as set out in the Le- under the direction of son, said the office will been complaints that gal Profession Act, is secretary to the Bar, provide a central spot the Bar is not reach- to educate the public Luann DaCosta. from which the mem- able; that it does on matters of law in The new office will bers of the associa- comment on various the country as well as provide a meeting tion can better serve issues affecting the to ensure the proper place for the several the public. According society. Recently, that administration and the sub-committees of the to Johnson, not having has changed some- rule of law in Antigua association, including its own office in the what but we are open- and Barbuda the disciplinary com- past has hampered the ing an office so that According to Johnson, mittee.

Carson Matthew Jr Sentenced to Prison Carson Matthew Jr of Upper the Magistrate’s Court on Frankie Thomas, explained that Fort Road, who escaped law- Wednesday, charged with es- Matthew, who faces multiple ful custody last Friday but was caping lawful custody and he other charges, including house recaptured about 24 hours lat- was sentenced to three months breaking and aggravated rob- er, has been jailed for the of- at Her Majesty’s Prison after bery, will appear before the fence. he was found guilty. court to answer these charges Matthew appeared before Police spokesman, Inspector at a future date. Three source market countries now require PCR tests for entry Health officials are antic- “This development is ex- Minister of Health, Well- satisfies the increased de- ipating a surge in demand pected to increase the ness and the Environment, mand for testing that is an- for more PCR tests as demand for more labora- Sir Molwyn Joseph, says ticipated. three major tourism source tory tests at the Mount St. that the government was The method of testing markets have announced John’s Medical Centre for already in the process of that will be undertaken by mandatory requirements the detection of the SARS securing additional testing the Mount St John’s Medi- from all passengers seek- COVID-19 virus. Health of- equipment and supplies in cal Centre will continue to ing reentry to their borders. ficials of both Ministry of anticipation of this devel- be the real time PCR or The Ministry of Health Health and the MSJMC opment. any other tests that may said it has been made have begun the process He explained that in ad- be the required for pas- aware of the mandatory of expanding laboratory dition to the extra equip- sengers leaving Antigua PCR testing requirement for capacity to meet the addi- ment and supplies, the Min- and Barbuda for destina- persons travelling to Can- tional demand for testing,” istry will be bolstering its tions to include Canada, ada, the United Kingdom the ministry said in a state- human resources to ensure the United Kingdom and and the United States. ment. that the laboratory output the United States. PAGE 7 LOCAL NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 NIA Mentor Award attracts scores of submissions Five businesswomen and financial services. Her tasked with assessing appli- experience and ability to cations for The Nia Mentor identify unique opportunities Award will have to decide for business growth and sus- from a pool of eighty-nine tainable expansion, in addi- submissions. Launched in tion to her enthusiasm about October 2020, the mentor- success and collaboration, ship initiative conceptualized make her an excellent addi- by Marcella Andre, CEO of tion to the team of mentors. Communications Consultan- Brann-Challenger, a com- cy Nia Comms, and communications consultant and munication specialist Jamilla independent contractor, has Kirwan aims to provide fi- more than twenty-five years nancial, strategic, and per- in the media industry. As a sonal guidance to one fe- respected thought leader, male entrepreneur. commentator, gender activ- The five women who will ist and lifelong mentor, her assess the applications and perspective is sought after serve as mentors for the and will greatly benefit the eventual winner are E. Ann first awardee. Henry QC, Vanessa Kel- Arrindell, a customer ser- sick, Stephane Harris-Burke, vice specialist, trainer, and Mickel Brann-Challenger, writer whose combined in- and Barbara A. Arrindell. terests and skills led her to Vanessa Kelsick They will be joined by André becoming the owner of the and Kirwan. Best of Books, is committed Legal powerhouse E. Ann to continued development. Henry QC, has led a distin- Speaking about the prog- guished career since 1981. ress of the initiative thus far, She has always maintained André says she is beyond a dedication to leadership humbled by the support from roles among her goals. the five women who have Henry says, “Being a part of agreed to serve as mentors. this allows me to pay it for- She adds, “I’m quite excited ward to a community which about what we’ll find when has been supportive and to going through the applica- be part of a most exciting tions. The response received initiative for women of this so far indicates this is some- generation who will be the thing that is not only wanted dynamos of the future.” but needed. I can’t wait to Kelsick, one of LIAT’s first find the winner!” female captains on the For her part, Kirwan says, De Havilland Dash-8, has “This initiative has been a worked in the aviation field long time coming and seeing for twenty-three years. She it come to fruition is such a says, “It is an honour to joy. Not only are we fulfilling serve as a team member our purpose and empower- for the Nia Mentor Award. I ing women but we are also think this is the beginning of honouring the women who something great not only for came before us.” women, but for the nation The deadline for the re- of Antigua and Barbuda.” ceipt of applications is 12.00 CEO of SoSS Consulting, p.m. Friday, 15th January. The Harris-Burke is a financial winner will be announced consultant with over 30 on 15th February, 2021. E. Ann Henry QC years’ experience in banking FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 8 CalvinAir Helicopters assisting with monitoring St. Vincent volcano The Caribbean Disaster Emer- ation, Mark Fleming, the decision was conducts tours and charters around gency Management Agency (CDE- made after considering several other Antigua and Barbuda and surround- MA) Coordinating Unit, has selected regional helicopter operations. ing islands. “As well,” he said, “we’ll CalvinAir Helicopters (CAH) as the “One of the requirements was to do more humanitarian work with top helicopter operator in the Ca- secure pilots with extensive moun- Medevac flights as well as search ribbean to carry out the work of as- tainous terrain flying, as the peak is and rescue and emergency missions sisting scientists with monitoring the over 4,000 feet. So it can be quite like these, with the Montserrat Volca- La Soufriere volcanic activity in St. challenging with the strong winds at nic Observatory and now St. Vincent.” Vincent and the Grenadines. that altitude. Additionally,” he added, The operation’s aircraft are state- According to a recent agency re- “CalvinAir Helicopter pilots actually of-the-art and not seen before in the port, this support is extremely urgent have extensive experience with flying Caribbean region. The Airbus EC130 to allow the scientists to analyze the for the Montserrat Volcano Observa- is known to be the gold standard data and present to the government tory (MVO) with a scientist there. So in helicopter aerial touring machines. of St. Vincent and the Grenadines an we will be doing very similar flying on In addition, the style of its tail rotor informed interpretation of the current this mission; conducting observation reduces outside noise by up to fif- volcanic events. It is against this back- flights around the dome; transport- ty per cent, earning it the nickname drop that CAH was selected to assist ing equipment and supplies to mon- “ECO-Star”. the team with this undertaking, and itoring sites; transporting the seismic “CalvinAir Helicopters is the best will be responsible for providing The research scientists and trying to find of its breed in all-purpose helicopter University of the West Indies (UWI) safe landing spots, where they will operations,” said Calvin Ayre, owner Seismic Research Centre’s (SRC) sci- be able to set up and maintain their of the company. “I am extremely entists with helicopter services for a remote monitoring stations to ana- proud of what our team has put to- period of seven (7) days, and then lyze data.” gether. We can offer services across on an “as needed” basis. According to Fleming, the Anti- the spectrum, from search and res- According to CAH’s Director of Avi- guan-based helicopter operation cue or medical airlift.” Centre for Excellence to study the Blue Economy to be based in Antigua and Barbuda The Antigua and Barbu- sities, and Sir Hilary Beck- opportunities for the Ca- try worth USD$2.5 trillion da government, the Uni- les Vice Chancellor on ribbean within this emerg- through the diversification versity of the West Indies behalf of the University of ing sector. of the economy into ar- and the Association of the West Indies. According to the Jonas, eas such as aquaculture, the Commonwealth Uni- Minister with responsibil- “Antigua and Barbuda is marine renewable energy, versities will sign a Mem- ity for the Blue Economy, advantageously positioned biotechnology and sea orandum of Understand- Dean Jonas, will also be to expand the offering of vegetable farming. ing (MOU) to establish the present. the University of the West Antigua and Barbuda’s Centre of Excellence for In October 2020, the Indies Five Islands Campus Blue Economy Minister Oceanography and the Government of Antigua in this area. Antigua and Jonas has been holding Blue Economy. and Barbuda gave its sup- Barbuda is one the largest meetings with several or- The virtual ceremony will port to the establishment economies in the Eastern ganizations, including the be held at the University of a Centre of Excellence Caribbean, has the largest Commonwealth Secretar- of the West Indies Five Is- for Oceanography and Exclusive Economic Zone iat, the Commonwealth lands campus on Tuesday the Blue Economy at the in the sub-region and its Marine Economies Pro- 19th January. University of the West In- geographical location gramme (CMEP), Com- Present at the signing dies Five Islands Campus. makes it ideally suited to monwealth Enterprise and will be Prime Minister Gas- The centre aims to ad- serve as the home and Investment Council (CWE- ton Browne who will be vance intellectual progress hub of the region’s blue IC), and the Organization signing on behalf of the and strengthen institution- economy efforts.” for Economic Co-opera- government, Professor Sir al capacity in the areas Antigua and Barbuda, tion and Development on Edward Byrne signing on of marine science and the as well as the Caribbean developing a blue econo- behalf of the Association blue economy, while cap- region, stand to benefit my action plan for Antigua of Commonwealth Univer- italizing on the economic from an emerging indus- and Barbuda. PAGE 9 COMMENTARY FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 Trump-Pompeo parting shots hurt the Caribbean

(The writer is the Ambassador of warrant that designation”. Antigua and Barbuda to the U.S. In pursuing this pugna- and the Organization of American cious policy against Cuba, States. He is also a senior fellow including unravelling the at the Institute of Commonwealth painstakingly weaved poli- Studies, University of London and cy of the previous Obama at Massey College in the Universi- administration to try to nor- ty of Toronto) malize relations between Cuba and the U.S., Trump’s As they are preparing to government is seeking to exit the White House and maintain the support of the State Department on Cuban-Americans in Flori- January 20, the outgoing da both for raising money Donald Trump adminis- for his political activity in tration has planted some the coming years and to be able to deliver the state explosives for the foreign By Sir Ronald Sanders policy of the government for a Presidential candi- of Joseph Biden Jr. date he favours – maybe In relation to Cuba – from A grenade has already even for himself in 2024. which every Caribbean been thrown into poli- As Juan Gonzalez, the in- country has sought and re- cies that Antony Blinken, coming Senior Director for ceived – vital help through Biden’s nominated Secre- Western Hemisphere in the the provision of medical tary of State, might pursue Biden National Security personnel, the U.S. asks in relation to Cuba and, Council, has pointed out, questions which are entire- consequently, the Caribbe- securing Florida for the ly the business of a sover- an region. 2020 Presidential election eign State, or the business In the dying days of his was the principal motiva- of sovereign States which tenure as Secretary of tion of Trump’s Cuba pol- have entered contracts. State and only 9 days be- icy throughout his term in The questions intrude glar- fore Blinken takes over the office. ingly on State rights. Were reins of U.S. foreign policy, Little publicized is a corol- the same questions put to Mike Pompeo placed Cuba lary of the Trump-Pompeo the Government of the U.S., on a List of State Sponsors Cuba policy for the coun- it would quite rightly firmly of Terrorism that the U.S. tries of CARICOM. Less than reject the very audacity of draws up unilaterally. a month ago, the U.S. gov- asking them. As the Non-Aligned Move- ernment sent a question- Trafficking in persons is a ment (NAM) stated on Jan- naire to Caribbean coun- very troubling activity. It uary 13, the listing of Cuba tries. The answers will be is one that every country as a sponsor of state ter- used to compile its annual should combat vigorously. rorism is “baseless”. Ca- Trafficking in Persons (TIP) In this regard, it is true to ribbean Community (CARI- report that is submitted to say that Caribbean coun- OM) Heads of Government the U.S. Congress. The De- tries have worked diligent- on the same day were un- cember questionnaire in- ly with the U.S. to try to equivocal in their view that cluded a new and sinister stamp out the activity, re- “Cuba’s international con- section related specifically lated to what amounts to duct does not in any way to workers from China and modern day slavery in its Cuba. worse form, and at its best cont’d on pg 10 FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 COMMENTARY PAGE 10 cont’d from pg 9 to the criminal exploita- of trafficking” and “is not tries for no good reason, tion of vulnerable persons, making significant efforts since U.S. security and U.S. particularly women and to bring itself into compli- values are not threatened girls. ance with such standards”. in any way. However, this attempt by Of course, the determina- the outgoing Trump ad- tion of what is “minimum The addition to the U.S. TIP ministration to include Cu- standards” and “significant questionnaire of a section ban medical workers and efforts” is made entire- on Cuban and Chinese professionals, serving Ca- ly by officials of the U.S. workers fitted well with ribbean governments, is government. the anti-China, anti-Cuba an attempt to politicize Every year, the TIP report stance of the Trump ad- an otherwise noble cause. classifies countries from ministration to serve its The objective appears to Tier 1 (the most acceptable) domestic political agenda. be the classification of Cu- to Tier 3 (the least accept- How much of this booby ban medical personnel as able). Of the 14 indepen- trap left for the Biden ad- ‘trafficked persons’, there- dent CARICOM countries, ministration is known to by implicating both Cuba two of them – the Bahamas its incoming State Depart- and Caribbean govern- and Guyana – were listed ment and National Securi- ments in criminal activity. in 2020 at Tier 1. Seven ty teams is not clear, but The latter would be the countries were in Tier 2. the Caribbean must regard weaponizing of a policy These were: Antigua and advising them as a prior- against countries that dis- Barbuda, Haiti, Jamaica, ity. The next U.S. TIP re- cards cooperation against St Lucia, St Vincent and port will be published and crime and replaces it with the Grenadines, Suriname sent to the U.S. Congress coercion. and Trinidad and Tobago. in June. The implications of this are On the Tier 2 Watch List The U.S. publication, For- quite serious and will be a were Barbados and Be- eign Policy, recently quot- priority of the work of Ca- lize. For unclear reasons, ed a U.S. official as say- ribbean countries with the Dominica, Grenada, and St ing that Pompeo’s team Biden administration and Kitts-Nevis appear in none is engaged in “parting the U.S. Congress because of the Tiers. In the event, shots deliberately aimed of the dangers posed to no Caribbean country is at at hampering the incom- them. the worst level – Tier 3. ing administration’s for- Under the U.S. TIP Act, However, if the presence of eign policy”. Where the the non-trade related, and Cuban personnel in CAR- Caribbean’s interests are non-humanitarian assis- ICOM countries becomes affected by those “parting tance can be withdrawn a criterion for the U.S. to shots”, the region must act from any country consid- unilaterally declare a hu- in unity to safeguard them. ered not to be in compli- man trafficking offence, ance “with minimum stan- this will injure U.S. rela- Responses and previous commen- dards for the elimination tions with CARICOM coun- taries: www.sirronaldsanders.com GOT NEWS? Send your news stories to [email protected] PAGE 11 FEATURE FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 UWI confers honorary doctoral degree on His Excellency Sir Rodney Williams at 2020 Mona graduation ceremony

Thursday January 14, 2021 tional Olympic Committee for — The University of the West four years. Indies (UWI) conferred an In 2014, Sir Rodney Williams honorary doctoral degree on was appointed Governor Gen- Governor General, His Excel- eral of Antigua and Barbuda. lency Sir Rodney Williams at In the same year he was hon- its Mona Campus graduation oured with two knighthood ap- ceremony today. pointments by Her Majesty the The event was shared with Queen – Knight Grand Cross of the general public through St. Michael and St. George and UWI TV and via social media. Knight of the Most Venerable In Antigua and Barbuda, His Order of the Hospital of St. John Excellency Sir Rodney Williams, of Jerusalem. In 2019, he was along with family members given the Freedom to the City and the Honourable Prime of London. Minister Gaston Browne, par- Sir Rodney was named Patron ticipated in the ceremony from of the Commonwealth Heritage a location at the UWI Five Is- Forum (UK) and Trustee of the lands Campus. London-based West India Com- His Excellency Sir Rodney mittee in 2020. He has also been Williams is one of four honor- a Patron of UWI’s Global Giving ary graduates to be conferred programme since its inception with the Doctor of Science and named the most outstand- (D.Sc.) degree by the Universi- ing Patron for 2020. Additionally, ty Council, for his outstanding he was the recipient of the Uni- contribution in the areas of versity of the West Indies Alumni Medicine and Public Service. Association’s prestigious Pelican The other recipients are: The a District Medical Officer for several Award in that same year. To- Rt. Excellent and Rt. Hon. Sir Ken- years, lectured pro bono to nurses at gether with his wife, HE Lady Wil- nedy Simmons, St. Kitts and Nevis; the Holberton Hospital, supervised liams, Sir Rodney is Patron of more Professor E. Albert Reece, Jamaica; the first batch of nurse practitioners than 30 non-profit organisations. and Professor Edgar Julian Duncan, in Antigua and Barbuda, and pro- In his acceptance speech and Trinidad and Tobago. vided medical services in Codrington, charge to the 2020 graduating class, The son of a career politician, the Barbuda. Sir Rodney gave lectures Sir Rodney expressed appreciation late Honourable Ernest Emmanuel on exercise, fitness and health for a to UWI for the institution’s recogni- Williams, Sir Rodney followed in his number of years on local television tion of his contribution to society, father’s footsteps and served as a and radio, and wrote articles on this and congratulated his fellow honor- Member of Parliament in Antigua and topic. ary gradates on their achievements. Barbuda. He was appointed as Min- After graduating with a Bachelor He proceeded to impart practical ister of Government in various minis- of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery advice to the UWI students, empha- tries, holding the portfolios of Tour- (MBBS) in 1976, Sir Rodney spent four sizing that “multi-skill development is ism, Education, Culture, Technology, decades of his professional life as a a necessity in today’s complex social Economic Development, Environment, medical doctor in Family Medicine and economic environment.” Sports, Youth and Community Devel- with specialisation in Aviation and Sir Rodney Williams received an- opment over a twenty-year period. Sport Medicine. From 1979 to present other honorary doctorate from the He also served as Deputy Speaker he has represented Antigua and Bar- St. Mary’s College of Maryland, USA of the House of Representatives and buda in a medical capacity in sev- (2019) for national service and a Pro- as Advisor to the Prime Minister. eral high-level sporting events and fessorship from the Kazakh-Russian In addition to his political career, Sir conferences including CARIFTA, IAAF, Medical University and the Govern- Rodney committed his life’s work to Pan Am and the Olympic Games. He ment of Kazakhstan (2019) for his service in the medical field. He was held the post of President of the Na- work in Sports Medicine.

PAGE 13 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 Fucha Kid…. tearing up the reggae charts Antigua and Barbuda’s fusion signed a deal with Chosen artist, Fucha Kid, ‘the Feds Boss,’ Sound Studio where he studied has landed a smooth Dancehall more of the entertainment busi- track, fused with a bit of R&B ness with Omari Harrigan while called “Pretty Picture.” under Chosen Sounds manage- The song is on a various artist ment from 2006 to 2010. compilation called the “Raspber- Following his stint with Chosen ry Riddim.” The album is distrib- Sounds, Fucha Kid then moved uted by Zojak Worldwide, which on to his current label, Federa- also features Jamaican dance- tion Family Studio, which he runs hall artist Shane O, Fellow Fed- with his business partner Kevin eration artist, 1-Rule as well as Abbott. several other dancehall acts. The In 2014, after his cross-over Raspberry Riddim was produced tour of the USA, he linked up by DJ Shatta Purix Records, but with Zack Cohen of Foxfuse, Fucha Kid the “Feds Boss” track New York. Pretty Picture was produced by Fucha Kid has had a few hits Fucha Kid The “Feds Boss” is Purix Records of Jamaica, Spane last year 2020 such as “Worst known as a fusion artist who Beats of Nevis and Federation Than Covid”, ft Hink & 1-Rule, sings any genre of music and Family Studio of Antigua. “Who Fool dem” ft with Mr. Gwa- has many chart-topping tracks The “Raspberry Riddim Album” da and “Grim Reaper” ft 1-Rule. around the world. These include was released late 2020 and it “All these tracks were rotated Chile, Brazil, Jamaica and Ger- has been on the US Company heavily on award winning Djs many. Audio Mac Top 100 Reggae Al- playlist on Youtube and oth- Fucha Kid said he has been in bum Chart since December of er social media outlets also on the music business for fourteen 2020 and it has been jumping up popular radio and TV stations years and he is now reaping the and down the chart. It peaked around the world,” he explained. benefits of his labour. He has at #8 last week and it is now The artist said he is now mak- graced stages in areas as di- at #15. “Hopefully we will see it ing video presentations for all verse as South America, Europe, reaches #1 with the support of of his hits from 2020 and 2021. North America and the Carib- Antigua and Barbuda and fans Fucha Kid “Feds Boss” is A Fox- bean. abroad,” Fucha Kid explains. Fuse/ Federation Family Artist “It’s a great feeling for me to “Pretty Pictures” is the lead- and has been granted his of- have my track being the leading ing track on the “Raspberry ficial VEVO page which will be track on such an awesome proj- Riddim.” Already, it has had al- rolled out this year, March 2021. ect and this has already opened most 300-thousand views and is Fucha Kid said he learned the some major doors for me in 2021. climbing fast. Earlier, Fucha Kid’s music business from Corporal I will be featured on some other release, “Feds Boss” had peaked Montana of African Treasure various artists projects in Jamai- at #99 on the Audio Mac Top who gave him a few produc- ca with which Busy Signal and 100 Reggae Chart. ers and DJ links in Jamaica. He other heavy hitters will be fea- Fucha Kid plans to ‘drop’ his then started his solo career in tured. I am also currently work- first dancehall album this sum- 2006 and travelled to Montser- ing with Bruce Bartley aka Supa mer, 2021, which will feature rat, Trinidad and then St Kitts Dymond on a super collabo- some major players from Ja- for Gem Family Rave where he ration with C.P. the Soca Diva maica, Miami, Antigua and Bar- met Omari Harrigan of Chosen (Claudette Peters) and so much buda, Guyana, Africa, and St Sounds Studio. more I feel absolutely blessed Kitts-Nevis. On his return to Antigua, he this year,” he told PointeXpress. FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 REGIONAL NEWS PAGE 14 CARICOM denounces US for declaring Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism (Looptt): The Caribbe- ‘Cuba’s international Cuba and looks forward ports and sales, and im- an Community (CARICOM) conduct does not in any to the United States mov- poses certain controls on has issued a strong state- way warrant that desig- ing towards normalising exports of dual-use items’. ment denouncing the out- nation. This further attack relations with Cuba’. Associated Press stated going Trump administra- on the country adverse- In a statement on Janu- that outgoing US presi- tion which has declared ly affects its internation- ary 11, the outgoing Trump dent Donald Trump was Cuba a State Sponsor of al standing and its social, administration declared impeached for a second Terrorism, subjecting the human and economic de- Cuba a State Sponsor of time yesterday, charged Caribbean nation to sanc- velopment and is another Terrorism for ‘repeatedly with “incitement of insur- tions. misguided action in addi- providing support for acts rection” over the deadly In a statement yesterday, tion to the unproductive, of international terrorism in mob siege of the Capitol CARICOM said the deci- unnecessary and illegal fi- granting safe harbour to in Washington, DC. sion is misguided: nancial and economic em- terrorists.’ Trump was first im- ‘The Caribbean Commu- bargo already imposed on The designation will sub- peached by the House in nity (CARICOM) denounc- this Caribbean nation by ject Cuba to ‘sanctions 2019 over his dealings with es the unilateral declara- the United States.’ that penalize persons and Ukraine, but the Senate tion by the outgoing United CARICOM has called for countries engaging in voted in 2020 to acquit. States administration to an ‘immediate review and certain trade with Cuba, This is the first time in US designate Cuba as a state reversal of these unjustified restricts US foreign as- history that a president has sponsor of terrorism.’ actions taken in regard to sistance, bans defense ex- been impeached twice. Businesses in St. Vincent and the Grenadines want wearing of face masks made mandatory

(CMC): Most business- Tony Regisford said a “We, in the business al; we employ people es in St. Vincent and mandatory order could community, are trying to and for us not to have the Grenadines say it assist, although he ac- continue and make the any major disruption or would be helpful to their knowledged there was adjustment so that there downturn in the employ- operations in the cur- no guarantee people is no major disruption to ment figures, then we rent COVID-19 environ- would fall into line. commerce,” he added. need to do what we are ment if the wearing of “If it became law then Regisford made an being asked to do.” masks in public places persons couldn’t argue appeal, on behalf of the was made mandatory, with that. But, sometimes, private sector, for citi- Speaking separate- the Chamber of Indus- making a law is not nec- zens to help businesses ly on the same pro- try and Commerce (CIC) essarily going to create “maintain that status quo gramme, Prime Minister has said. the right behaviour,” he and they can do that by Gonsalves said while However, Prime Minis- said, adding that peo- following the protocols he had heard calls for ter Dr. Ralph Gonsalves ple must want to wear that are outlined.” wearing of face masks has indicated that his masks and understand Specifically pointing to be made mandatory, government would pre- why they have to do so to measures being im- that could be a difficult fer to use persuasion for the practice to be plemented in the public measure to police. and public education to most effective,” he said. transport sector, he said He said that one day encourage persons to “I am heartened by the if protocols are not fol- after the government adopt the practice. fact that we’re seeing lowed, the entire coun- gave two masks to Calling in on local ra- people out in public – 90 try would be put at risk. each student last year, dio programme Issue at per cent of them, if not “So we, in the busi- he took a drive around Hand, where he spoke more – wearing masks ness community, are in Kingstown and only one about the impact of and wearing them prop- compliance, largely. We of over 100 students he the pandemic on the erly; and that education need to be; our surviv- saw were wearing masks private sector, execu- continues now … to wear al depends on that. And in the streets. tive director of the CIC a mask properly. it’s not only our surviv- PAGE 15 REGIONAL NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 Turks and Caicos elections on February 19 (Tcweeklynews): On Fri- Nigel Dakin to issue a writ sentatives who will have this election is about who day, February 19, citizens of election that day, offi- their best interest at heart. has the best plans for the of the Turks and Caicos Is- cially ordering the holding “No one is perfect,” she future then the PDM shall lands will head to the polls of the general election. said, “no side will ever have win. to decide which political “Confident of our victory, all the answers, but every “If this election is about party will govern the terri- I am proud to announce election is about choosing performance versus all tory for the next four years. that the general election who will seek your best talk, then we shall win.” Premier Sharlene Cart- will be held here in the interest, who will manage “Four years ago we wright Robinson an- Turks and Caicos Islands your affairs responsibly. made history together and nounced the date during on February 19, 2021,” she “Who is more likely to this year 2021 through the a political rally of her rul- said. not steal from you, who is grace of God history shall ing People’s Democrat- “The People’s Demo- more likely to respect and repeat itself.” ic Movement (PDM) on cratic Movement will file a be honest with you and Public opinion ratings of Grand Turk, Saturday night full slate of 15 outstanding who are more likely not the PDM Government and (January 9). candidates when nomina- to cut deals behind your the ruling party are high A crowd of enthusiastic tion day is held on January back.” especially given its strong supporters dressed in blue 29 as we look to renew The PDM leader added response to the Covid-19 rang bells and waved par- and expand our mandate.” that her party is “ready for crisis. ty flags at the drive-in rally Cartwright Robinson re- the next fight”. However, support of the on West Road as she gave minded voters that the She said: “If this elec- Government’s Covid-19 her speech on stage. elections are not about tion turns out to be about management is tempered The party leader said choosing the “perfect” leadership and character by concerns over econom- she had advised Governor party but electing repre- then the PDM shall win, if ic decline. Sir Hilary, Dr Fauci are 2021 recipients of Martin Luther King Award US National Action Net- Dr Anthony Fauci, who work (NAN). The awards is at the forefront of the will be conferred on Sir fight in the United States Hilary and Dr Fauci at the against the novel coro- annual breakfast event on navirus, will receive the MLK Day, next Monday in “Lifetime Community Ser- Washington, DC. vice Award”. This is the 30th anni- Previous awardees in- versary for the awards clude the 42nd presi- by which the work and dent of the United States legacy of Dr King are Bill Clinton; Berry Gordy, celebrated and persons founder of Motown Mu- honoured with a view to sic; and the 82nd attor- refocusing and sustaining ney general of the United his dream, said a release States, Eric Holder. Event BECKLES... recognised for global advocacy, academic scholarship from NAN. It said Sir Hil- speakers have included and intellectual leadership in support of social justice ary is being recognised Vice President-elect Joe for his global advoca- Biden and United States cy, academic scholarship Attorney General Loretta (Jamaicaobserver): Sir fectious Diseases, are this and intellectual leader- Lynch. Hilary Beckles, vice-chan- year’s recipients of the ship in support of social The ceremony and cellor of The University Dr Martin Luther King Jr justice, institutional equi- awards will be streamed of the West Indies (UWI), Award. ty, and economic devel- live on UWItv’s website— and Dr Anthony Fauci, The announcement was opment for marginalised www.uwitv.org, cable renowned director of the made on Wednesday by and oppressed ethnicities channels on Flow EVO United States National In- Rev Al Sharpton, presi- and nations. and Facebook pages. stitute of Allergy and In- dent and founder of the FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 INTERNATIONAL NEWS PAGE 16 US blacklisting of Houthis ‘could tip Yemen into huge famine’ (BBC): The US plan to designate Yemen’s rebel Houthi movement as a terrorist group is likely to trigger a “famine on a scale that we have not seen for nearly 40 years”, the UN’s aid chief has said. Mark Lowcock told the UN Secu- rity Council issuing licences for imports of key supplies for rebel-con- trolled areas would not prevent such a disaster. About 50,000 Yemenis are already “starving to death in what is essen- tially a small famine”, he warned. Five million more are near starva- First U.S. President in history to be impeached twice Donald Trump tion. The executive director of the World triggered what the UN says is the movement reserved the right to re- Food Programme, David Beasley, world’s worst humanitarian crisis, spond to any designation. said: “We are struggling now without with 80% of the population in need Mr Pompeo said the US recognised the designation. With the designa- of aid or protection. the concerns of aid groups operat- tion, it’s going to be catastrophic.” On Sunday, US Secretary of State ing in areas under Houthi control, “It literally is going to be a death Mike Pompeo notified Congress of where the bulk of the population sentence to hundreds of thousands, his intention to designate the Houthis lives, and would work to reduce the if not millions of innocent people in as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation impact on what he called “certain Yemen.” (FTO) on 19 January - the day be- humanitarian activity and imports Yemen has been devastated by a fore President Donald Trump leaves into Yemen” by issuing licences and conflict that escalated in 2015, when office. exemptions. the Iran-aligned Houthis seized con- Mr Pompeo said the aim was to But before Thursday’s UN Secu- trol of large parts of the country and hold the group accountable for “its rity Council briefing, Mr Lowcock a Saudi-led coalition of Arab states terrorist acts, including cross-border tweeted: “The US designation of the supported by the US launched a mil- attacks threatening civilian popula- Houthis as a foreign terrorist organ- itary operation to restore President tions, infrastructure and commercial isation could be the final straw that Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi’s rule. shipping”. tips Yemen into not just a small fam- The fighting has reportedly left Houthi leader Mohammed Ali al- ine, but a truly huge one.” more than 110,000 people dead and Houthi accused the Trump administration of terrorism and said the PAGE 17 INTERNATIONAL NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 US-China trade war cost up to 245,000 jobs

(Reuters): U.S. President a significant decouplingno immediate changes to choices,” Allen told a press Donald Trump’s trade war of the world’s two largest Trump’s tariffs, but said briefing. with China has caused a economies could shrink he will work with allies to The study estimates that peak loss of 245,000 U.S. U.S. GDP by $1.6 trillion pressure China to change U.S. exports to China sup- jobs, but a gradual scal- over the next five years. its trade behavior. port 1.2 million American ing back of tariffs on both This could result in 732,000 USCBC President Craig jobs and that Chinese sides would boost growth fewer U.S. jobs in 2022 Allen, who has been sup- multinational companies and lead to an addition- and 320,000 fewer jobs by portive of Trump’s efforts directly employ 197,000 al 145,000 jobs by 2025, a 2025, it said. to change China’s trade Americans, while U.S. com- study commissioned by the The study was released and technology transfer panies invested $105 billion U.S.-China Business Council just days before Presi- policies, said it was im- in China in 2019. (USCBC) shows. dent-elect Joe Biden is set portant that the group ar- “With China forecast to The group, which rep- to take office and begin ticulate the consequences drive around one-third of resents major American a major analysis of U.S. of policy choices in the global growth over the companies doing business trade policy, including con- U.S.-China relationship. next decade, maintaining in China, said the study sultations with democrat- “In the case of the tar- market access to China is by Oxford Economics also ic allies over punitive U.S. iffs, it’s very important that increasingly essential for includes an “escalation tariffs imposed by Trump. we understand the full U.S. businesses’ global suc- scenario” which estimates Biden has said he plans economic cost of these cess,” the study said. Trump impeachment trial could begin on Inauguration Day election. “The only path to any reunification of this bro- ken and divided country is by shining a light on the truth,” said Rep. Madeleine Dean, D-Pa., who will serve as an impeachment manager. “That’s what the impeachment vote was. That’s what the trial in the Senate will be about.” Trump was impeached First U.S. President in history to be impeached twice Donald Trump Wednesday by the House over the deadly Capitol (Apnews): President on when House Speak- the trial will be unlike siege, the only president Donald Trump’s im- er Nancy Pelosi decides any other in the nation’s in U.S. history twice impeachment trial could to transmit the article history, the first for a peached, after a pro- begin on Inauguration of impeachment to the president no longer in Trump mob stormed the Day, just as Democrat Senate. Democrats hop- office. And, politically, building. The attack has Joe Biden takes the ing to avoid interrupt- it will force a reckoning left the nation’s capital, oath of office in an ev- ing Biden’s inauguration among some Republi- and other major cities, er-more-extraordinary have suggested hold- cans who have stood under high security amid end to the defeated ing back until the new by Trump throughout his threats of more violence president’s tenure in the president has a chance presidency and largely around the inauguration. White House. to get his administration allowed him to spread Senate Republican The timing is not set going. false attacks against leader Mitch McConnell and depends heavily What is clear is that the integrity of the 2020 is open to consider- cont’d on pg 18 FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 INTERNATIONAL NEWS PAGE 18 cont’d from pg 17 ing impeachment, hav- tremely tall hurdle. But when she will take the director of national intel- ing told associates he is it’s not out of the realm next step to transmit ligence will have a hear- done with Trump, but he of possibility, especial- the impeachment arti- ing Friday by the Senate has not signaled how he ly as corporations and cle, a sole charge of Intelligence Committee. would vote. wealthy political donors incitement of insurrec- “We are working with The Republican leader distance themselves tion. After Trump’s first Republicans to try to holds great sway in his from Trump and the Re- impeachment, in 2019, find a path forward,” party even though con- publicans who stood by she withheld the articles said Senate Democratic vening the trial will be his attempt to overturn for some time to set the leader Chuck Schumer’s among his last acts as the election. stage for the Senate ac- office. majority leader. Two new At least four Republi- tion. With the Capitol se- senators from Georgia, can senators have pub- Biden has said the cured by armed Nation- both Democrats, are licly expressed grave Senate should be able al Guard troops inside to be sworn into of- concerns about Trump’s to split its time and do and out, the House vot- fice leaving the cham- actions, and others say both — hold the trial ed 232-197 on Wednes- ber divided 50-50. That so privately. and start working on his day to impeach Trump. tips the majority to the Under Senate proce- priorities, including swift The proceedings moved Democrats once Kama- dure, the trial is to start confirmation of his Cab- at lightning speed, with la Harris takes office, as soon after the House inet nominees. lawmakers voting just the vice president is a delivers the article of On Inauguration Day, one week after vio- tie-breaker. impeachment. That could the Senate typically lent pro-Trump loyalists No president has ever mean starting at 1 p.m. confirms some of the stormed the Capitol, been convicted in the on Inauguration Day. new president’s Cabinet, egged on by the pres- Senate, and it would The ceremony at the particularly national se- ident’s calls for them to take a two-thirds vote Capitol starts at noon. curity officials. Biden’s “fight like hell” against against Trump, an ex- Pelosi has not said choice of Avril Haines as the election results. PAGE 19 FUN ZONE FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021

QuickQUICK crossword CROSSWORD no 15,682 1 2 3 4 5 6 Across 1 Zimbabwean president, 1987-2017 (6) 4 Boy's name — a long way (5) 7 Fights (6) 8 Pollen-producing part of a ower (6) 7 8 9 Yemen's chief port (4) 10 Okayed (8) 12 Not properly tuned (11) 17 Postponed (8) 9 10 11 19 Highly strung (4) 20 Slackness (6) 21 Pay back (6) 22 Unfortunately (5) 23 Poisonous snakes (6) 12 13 14 15 Down 16 1 Road surface (7) 2 Light anchor — real GNP (anag) (7) 3 Nonparticipant (9) 17 18 19 4 Of small importance (5) 5 Normandy port (2,5) 6 Walk with long steps (6) 11 Looted (9) 20 21 13 Attached (7) 14 Foot-operated lever (7) 15 Stray from the subject (7) 16 Grown-ups (6) 18 Irritable (5) 22 23

DAILY COMICS SUDOKU

Dilbert

Garfield

Cathy

How to play Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9. There is no math involved. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 WHAT’S UP? PAGE 20 LOCAL WEATHER FORECAST COMMUNITY NOTICES

COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIP NOMINATIONS The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the United King- dom is inviting nominations from Antigua and Barbuda for Com- monwealth Master’s Scholarships tenable from 2021. Closing date for nominations is 1st March, 2021. Deadline for submission of applications to the Ministry of Educa- tion, Sports and Creative Industries is 19th February, 2021. Full details of the scholarships are included in the 2021 terms and conditions, available at: cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/about-us/scholarships

CHSS DARE TO D.E.A.R. BOOK DRIVE 2020 Clare Hall Secondary School is inviting past Clarehalites, enter- tainers, radio personalities and the general public to participate in its DARE to D.E.A.R (Drop Everything and Read) Book Drive 2020. Send us a video recording about your favourite book and donate a copy or multiple copies of that book to our school library. Give us a call at 462-3487 or mail us at [email protected]. The book drive culminates in December 2020. We DARE you to D.E.A.R with us and help us promote literacy amongst our stu- YOUR DAILY HOROSCOPE dents.

ARIES | Mar. 21-Apr. 19 LIBRA Sept. | 23-Oct. 22 QUALITY ASSURANCE UNIT The Quality Assurance Unit, Ministry of Tourism will be suspend- Your insight and energy can lay the Unexpected news about a person from groundwork for an especially produc- your past could shock you today, not ing operations from December 15, 2020 to January 15, 2021. All tive day. Whether it’s finishing a proj- because of the news itself but because property owners are asked to take note as no inspections and ect early or cleaning out your garage, your reaction is so calm. Clearly enough covid-19 certifications will be executed during this period. For you are totally on the ball and kicking time has elapsed that you’ve gained a you know what! healthy distance. Congratulations! more information contact the department t 468-4061/4003.

TAURUS | Apr. 20-May 20 SCORPIO Oct. | 23-Nov. 21 It’s time to be your own drill sergeant. There could be a lot of vibrant, pos- Go ahead and discipline yourself. Don’t itive communication hovering around inflict discipline in a mean way, but you today. This energy will enable “tough love” is just fine. Is there some long, fascinating conversations to work you’ve been avoiding, an awkward evolve out of modest small talk quite conversation you’ve been putting off? easily.

GEMINI | May 21-June 20 SAGITTARIUS | Nov. 22-Dec. 21 Anger can be a tricky emotion. Sure, You are shrewd to try to negotiate through it can get someone’s attention, but it a potentially tense situation, but you also can also push them away. Neverthe- have to know when it’s time to bring out less, it’s a legitimate emotion and one the big guns or you could get a reputation that you need to get more comfort- as a bit of a pushover. There is absolutely able with. no reason to tolerate someone being rude.

CANCER | June 21-July 22 CAPRICORN | Dec. 22-Jan. 19 If you’re feeling indecisive about your feel- There is a ton of high energy circulat- ings for someone right now, you should ing around you right now, and you will give yourself more time to figure it all out. be feeding off the good vibes. You’ll You can’t move forward in any type of be eager to move ahead with your relationship unless you feel comfortable goals and ambitions, and this tenden- that you know who you’re dealing with. cy could intensify as the day goes on.

LEO | July 23-Aug. 22 AQUARIUS | Jan. 20-Feb. 18 If you’ve been waiting for a time to Dive headfirst into the day. You have all sway someone to your way of think- the energy you need to stay focused and ing, you could have the perfect op- disciplined. You’ll know answers to ques- portunity today. When everyone is at tions that haven’t even been asked yet. a loss about what to do, you should It’s a great day to prepare a big pre- toss in your ideas. sentation or get in some solid research.

VIRGO | Aug. 23-Sept. 22 PISCES | Feb. 19-Mar. 20 You’ve been going full steam ahead Every once in a while you get a sud- for a long time. Have you forgotten den warm feeling about your life. It’s how to completely relax? To your cred- like the universe is giving you a reas- it, you’ve been trying to mellow out, but suring hug, reminding you that you’re your efforts so far aren’t giving you the special. Take this feeling for the gift it full rest you desperately need. is and don’t shrug it off.

Tell us what’s happening in your community. Submit community notices to [email protected]

FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 SPORTS NEWS PAGE 22 Simmons urges West Indies players in Bangladesh to secure their spot

West Indies coach Phil golden opportunity to game for the Caribbean conference on Tuesday, Simmons has called on make life difficult for side. Simmons said he has the players presently in the usual players, if Despite most supporters informed the players Bangladesh to perform they perform and the and journalist believing they are not there to fill and secure their places selectors, led by former it is a weakened squad, the blanks, but to state in the teams which are Windies player Roger Simmons is of the view their case for permanent without twelve of its Harper, take note. that it presents a great positions in the team. usual players. Less than five players opportunity for some “You have a chance The withdrawal of on the tour have more young players to state to seal your place in the twelve players from than five caps, and four their case to remain in team,” Simmons said he the teams because of players could make their the squad when they articulated to the young COVID-19 concerns in debut. There are seven return to the Caribbean, players. West Indies Bangladesh has led to players in the One-Day- if they are successful in will play three ODIs fringe players being International team who the South Asian country. and two Tests against drafted and given a could play their first At a Zoom press Bangladesh.

Andy Murray tests positive for coronavirus Former world number one Andy health, remains hopeful he will be of the coronavirus pandemic. Players Murray’s participation at the Austra- allowed to travel safely at a later must test negative before taking one lian Open is in doubt after the Briton date and compete as planned. The of the 15 charted flights—which have tested positive for coronavirus. five-time Australian Open runner-up been put on by tournament organiz- The 33-year-old Scot was set to fly pulled out of last week’s ATP event in ers and will operate at twenty-five to Melbourne on a chartered flight Delray Beach as he wanted to “mini- per cent capacity—to Australia. arriving there over the next twen- mize the risks” of catching a transat- Once they have arrived, they will ty-four hours. Instead, he remains in lantic flight to Florida. have to pass a series of COVID-19 quarantine and isolation at home in The Australian Open will start on tests during a fourteen-day quaran- London. 8th February at Melbourne Park, tine in Melbourne before the Grand Murray, who is said to be in good three weeks later than usual, because Slam. PAGE 23 SPORTS NEWS FRIDAY, 15 JANUARY, 2021 Leeward Hurricanes ready for the challenge Chief Executive Officer said the board is looking making recommendations Stadium. of the Leeward Islands forward to a productive to the Leeward Island Abraham told PointeFM Cricket Board (LICB) Peter 2021 and the Leeward Cricket Board cricket Touchline program that Abraham said 2020 was an Hurricane players are committee this week, participating in the CPL extremely challenging year presently on the ground in outlining a detailed plan bio-secure bubble last for the board dealing with Antigua going through the for the way forward for year in Trinidad, and the coronavirus pandemic, quarantine process. 2021. regular communication especially having to “The players are really Abraham said the with a close friend who handle eight territories hyped and ready to play Hurricanes will field their is a doctor, has assisted that are members. some competitive cricket,” best team for the Super50, him with organizing the Abraham said despite Abraham noted. Players expected to bowl off Leeward bio-secure the pandemic they were who live in Antigua will join here in Antigua in early bubble. able to host the players the bubble created by the February. The goal of the The other five territories in two places but did not LICB next week. They will team is to win the trophy who will participate in host any of their planned be tested before entering this year, Abraham stated, the CWI Super50 are tournaments during 2020. the bio-secure bubble. and the team will conduct expected on island later Abraham, who is also the The chief executive their training sessions at this month. Chief Financial Officer,officer said he will be the Sir Vivian Richards

James Harden traded to the Brooklyn Nets

The Brooklyn Nets have Harden is going to the draft picks and additional Rockets informed Hard- agreed to acquire three- Nets as part of a four-team pick swaps are also part en they didn’t want him at time scoring champion deal that also involves In- of the deal, a source told practice after his inflamma- James Harden from the diana and Cleveland, ac- the Associated Press. Oth- tory comments about the Houston Rockets, a deal cording to the person who er key players, Victor Olad- team. that reunites him with Kevin spoke to the Associated ipo, goes from Indiana to After losing to the Lak- Durant and gives him the Press on Wednesday. Houston, and Caris LeVert ers, Harden said the team move that he has sought The news was also re- goes from Brooklyn to In- was not good enough and for weeks, according to ported by ESPN and Ya- diana. he had done everything he multiple reports. hoo Sports. At least four Earlier Wednesday the can. cont’d from pg 24 disclosed. demonstrated her players have been Richie Richardson was Antigua and love and commitment struggling because present at the J.T. Barbuda’s to us and it’s only fitting they don’t have any Ambrose school event. Commissioner of that she be given the gear or equipment so Irene B Williams Sports Colin James, title of ‘cricket angel’,” these will assist them,” Secondary in Swetes, who has been liaising said James. said the former West Villa Primary, C.T. with the ‘cricket angel’ Ridley Jacobs, who Indies captain and Samuel Primary in during the period of is the school’s cricket wicketkeeper/batsman. John Hughes, and Old the pandemic, says the coordinator, received Sir Curtly Ambrose, Road Primary have country’s youngsters a portion of the the legendary West also received gear will benefit from this items on behalf of Indies pacer rated and equipment since latest contribution. the government and among the best of the distribution started “Tamara has done says the donation all-time, assisted with on Monday. a tremendous job to was timely for the the presentation to his Other presentations solicit and send this Combined Schools alma mater, All Saints will be made next week shipment to Antigua team. Secondary; while to other secondary and Barbuda. She has “[S]ome of the former Windies captain and primary schools. PAGE 24 FRIDAY 15 JANUARY 2021 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG Cricket Kindness project donates a quantity of gear and equipment

A donation of once again delighted quality cricket gear to make the gesture, and equipment by an especially during the England-based charity COVID-19 era. has started to roll out Tamara says her work across schools and is receiving tremendous communities in Antigua support in England. and Barbuda. “Cricket Kindness Cricket Kindness, the relies on cricket brainchild of Australian clubs and schools I Tamara Lowe, who contact, taking time pioneered the to organize equipment Caribbean Children’s collections through Cricket Charity, has their communities. I am sent a number of bats, particularly grateful balls, shoes, pads, to members of the gloves, kit, helmets, Hawridge & Cholesbury and other items to the Cricket Club and the Ministry of Sport for Tring Park Cricket distribution. Club for gathering Lowe, who now much of the equipment resides in London, and generously England, and started donating to the Cricket her mission in Antigua Kindness crowdfunding in 2017, says she is campaign to help pay to sea-freight the gear to St. John’s,” she cont’d on pg 23

Editor: Everton Barnes, Published by Pointville Communications, Lower North Street, St. John’s, Antigua 1(268) 562-4989 Editorials: [email protected], Advertising: [email protected], Reporting: [email protected]