MONDAY 18 JANUARY 2021 | ISSUE 179 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG TWO MORE CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES SEE PAGE 3

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PM calls for national ABLP Youth Cuba: A victim of effort against COVID-19 arm launches American terrorism entrepreneurship seminar

Editorial: Kudos to Antigua and Barbuda Page 2 MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 EDITORIAL PAGE 2 KUDOS TO ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Antigua and Bar- take the person to perienced, and em- something more in- buda has been pop- their destination. phasized that had tangible that really ularly called the Moreover, it is all it not been for her, defines who we are “melting pot” of done without even they would have as a people. It is a the Caribbean, and the thought of any certainly starved trait that must re- with good reason. sort of payment or aboard their vessel. main incorruptible, On any given day, a reward. Within the willing- even in the face of casual stroll through It is this same kind ness to help, there rabid nationalism any village will re- of warm and friend- is also a certain dressed in the fin- sult in encountering ly disposition that amount of respect ery of patriotism. persons from most millions of tourists for other people’s Be ever vigilant and islands in the OECS have pinpointed as privacy that the guard against those and CARICOM re- one of the stron- people of this fair who would want to gions, and also from gest selling points isle have cultivated. shame you into ac- the Dominican Re- of the country. Many Many celebrities at- quiescence because public, Haiti, and to come for a visit and test to this fact—they you do not share some extent Vene- decide to stay be- are free to travel the view that people zuela. In addition, cause of the people. the streets, go to be not born in Antigua one will encounter When asked what the beach, visit his- and Barbuda, par- persons from the convinced them to torical sites, or at- ticularly Caribbean Middle East, China, make Antigua and tend social events, people, should not Europe, the UK, the Barbuda their home, and even if they are be here. It is a dan- USA, and Canada. invariably, the re- recognized, people gerous cancer that Though some have sponse comes down do not crowd them threatens to eat at tried to use this to something along or otherwise make the body politic, and simple situation as the lines of “it’s the them feel uncomfort- there must be valiant a political football people—so warm, able. Truly, Antiguan efforts at pushing for narrow political so friendly, so wel- and Barbudans have back against such interests, a closer coming.” As recent- mastered the art of vitriol and invective. examination will re- ly as the middle of being welcoming Indeed, it is a trib- veal that there is a last year during the while remaining un- ute to this nation kind of hospitality national shutdown, intrusive. that people not born and welcoming spirit there was a story in Few would doubt here want to live that Antiguans and the local media of that the qualities among us as it says Barbudans possess. a couple who jour- outlined here are something about It is something for neyed here on a a defining charac- our character. We which we should be yacht for the very teristic, a kind of must always remem- exceedingly proud, first time and did zeitgeist, of what it ber that no one can and should fight not know anyone. means to be Anti- choose where they fiercely to protect! While moored off guan and Barbudan. are born, but they It is not unusual, the coast, they were While the question can choose where for example, for an put in touch with a of being born in the they want to live, Antiguan to be ap- local vendor and she country (or being a and of the one hun- proached for direc- quite literally took direct descendant dred and ninety-five tions by an absolute care of them from a of either parents or nations on earth, stranger and in the distance. The visitors grandparents who they have chosen spur of a moment, highlighted her gen- were born in Anti- Antigua and Barbu- drop whatever in erosity and helpful- gua) is what legally da. That makes of which he/she might ness as something makes an individual pretty special! been engaged and they have never ex- a national, there is PAGE 3 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Two more confirmed COVID-19 cases

The Ministry of Health says JMC were negative and are the latest results from the reflected in the total persons Mount St. John’s Medical Cen- tested and total samples ter (MSJMC) and the Carib- taken columns of the dash- bean Public Health Agency board. (CARPHA) have revealed two Of the thirty-three samples new laboratory confirmed processed by CARPHA, thir- COVID-19 cases in Antigua ty-one were negative and two and Barbuda as of Saturday positive. The two new cases 17th January 2021 at 6 p.m. are non-imported. Investiga- In a statement issued over- tions are ongoing and contact night, the ministry said sub- tracing and testing is in prog- sequent to the publication of ress. the dashboard for Friday 15th Consequently, the total num- January 2021 with the cut off ber of persons with laborato- time of 6:00 p.m., one hundred ry confirmed COVID-19 cases and fifteen additional samples in Antigua and Barbuda is were processed at the Mount one hundred and eighty-nine, St. John’s Medical Center and which is inclusive of twen- thirty-three at CARPHA which ty-seven active cases. increased the pending results Meanwhile, fifty-four sam- from seventy-one to two hun- ples are pending. dred and nineteen. The dashboard has been All one hundred and eighty- updated to reflect these six samples processed by MS- changes. GOT NEWS?

Send your news stories to [email protected] MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 4 Two teenagers charged with break-in and larceny Two teenagers are in lives at Bryson’s Street along with the cash reg- male of Belle Street, Villa police custody following and the other at Piggott ister with an undisclosed and a 24-year-old male their arrest on charges Street. They are accused sum of money, and other of Buckley Line were also involving break-in in and of breaking into a store valuable items. charged in connection larceny. on Redcliffe Street on 11th Both men were sep- with said offence. Police reports say the January 2021, and stealing arately charged for al- They are accused of re- pair—a 19-year-old and a number of electronic legedly break-in and en- ceiving a number of the a 17-year-old, both males items to include a laptop tering a fitness gym on items that were allegedly of Villa Area—was arrest- computer, mobile phones, Redcliffe Street on the stolen. The incident oc- ed and jointly charged by video games, and smart same day, and stealing an curred sometime between the police on Friday with watches. They also al- undisclosed sum of mon- 11th and 13th January. The break-in and larceny. legedly stole several piec- ey. Police have since recov- The police have not es of jewellery, including Meantime, a 19-year-old ered some of the items. released their identities, necklaces and rings, and female of Golden Grove They are expected in but have said that one an assortment of tools, along with a 23-year-old Court during this week. PM calls for national effort against COVID-19

uptick in active cases. had long identified returning nation- Over the weekend, the number als as a ‘high risk group’ and that of active cases increased to twen- is why measures were put in place ty-seven, as the Ministry of Health to quarantine or isolate them from announced the latest results of tests the rest of the population. “We were conducted by the Mount St John’s accused of discrimination against Medical Centre (MSJMC). returning nationals and some be- “Those who have been strictly ad- came defiant. But it was this policy hering to the protocols over the past of ensuring that they quarantined for ten months would see that they are fourteen days and be isolated that the ones who have not contracted prevented the virus from spreading the virus. Those who have not been exponentially among the community,” fully practising the protocols have Browne further explained. other results. The protocols work!” he He gave as examples the situa- observed. tion in several Caribbean territories According to the prime minister, where the coronavirus is spreading the two most recent COVID-related at alarming rates. deaths can be traced to incidences PM Browne appealed to residents Prime Minister Gaston Browne where people were not fully adher- to join with the government to help ing to the health protocols laid down contain the spread of the virus. “We by the Ministry of Health. want to encourage our people to be As the number of active COVID-19 He said Antigua and Barbuda has compliant with the protocols as it is cases continues to rise in Antigua and done ‘reasonably well’ in its manage- absolutely critical for us to be more Barbuda, the prime minister wants a ment of the COVID-19 pandemic as it vigilant. We now have to view every- national effort to help contain further was ranked number 197 of 220 coun- one who is not a part of our house- spread of the virus. tries based on their effectiveness in hold as a potential risk of contracting Speaking on the Browne and keeping the outbreak under control. the virus and to act accordingly,” he Browne show on PointeFM on Sat- However, the country’s leader ex- declared. urday, Prime Minister Gaston Browne pressed concern over reported in- He emphasized that there are two said he has noticed that there has cidences where returning nationals things that helped keep the spread been some level of complacency have flagrantly flouted the protocols under some measure of control; the that has taken hold among some in and some have even accused the mandatory wearing of mask and en- the country and that it is this com- government of being discriminatory. suring that returning nationals under- placency that has led to the recent He explained that health officials go a period of quarantine. PAGE 5 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 WIOC to launch road-show

The Oil Com- fifty-one per cent shares scribed as ‘a great oppor- nies also include Antigua pany (WIOC) will launch a in the company and in- tunity’ and the company Power Company Ltd., major ‘road-show’ ahead dications are that one has been described as a which currently supplies of the much-anticipated of the other two ma- very profitable and stable the bulk of the country’s divestment of its shares jor shareholders, Fancy company which enjoys a electricity needs. to members of the public. Bridge, will also divest a monopoly on the supply The sources indicate Well-placed govern- portion of its shares. of all petroleum products that WIOC will partner ment sources say the The sources indicated in the country. with private sector enti- road show is designed that some twelve and Additionally, WIOC has ties to undertake the de- for the company to ed- a half per cent of the a facility in neighbouring velopment of a Business ucate and inform the shares will go up for sale that contributes Park on lands it owns on public of all they need to when the process begins to its current profitability. Friar’s Hill road. know about the process in February. A second The company also WIOC is finalizing ar- of investing in the com- portion of shares will be has plans to diversify its rangements to name pany. offered for sale on the product offerings and it agents to undertake the Late last year, the Eastern Caribbean Stock is among several compa- sale of its shares here government announced Exchange (ECSE) around nies that have submitted in Antigua and Barbuda plans to divest approxi- the middle of the year. bids to supply APUA with and in St Lucia for the mately ten per cent of its WIOC has been de- electricity. These compa- ECSE. ABLP youth arm launches entrepreneurship seminar their skills, organized by the Cen- series was developed to equip our tral Youth for Labour, the youth young people with the necessary arm of the ruling Antigua and tools and knowledge they would Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). need for economic advancement. The workshop/seminars kicked As the youth arm of the ABLP, off on Saturday and was held at this initiative also seeks to support the newly opened headquarters youth in Antigua and Barbuda to of the party, the People’s Place emerge as future leaders,” Sena- located on Nugent Avenue. tor Govia stated. CYFL President, Senator Shenel- She noted that participants will la Govia, said Saturday’s session gain meaningful knowledge and concentrated on introducing the strategies that can be immediate- participants – both males and fe- ly applied to their profession or males – on how to start their own businesses to achieve economic businesses. success from experienced trainers. The facilitators were Kiesha Phil- Meanwhile, the second seminar lip, BSc (Econ) and Dorothy Pe- in the series will be on the topic ters-Nicholls, a certified anti money of “Resume Writing and Job Inter- laundering specialist and certified view.” According to Senator Gov- fraud examiner, who holds an MSc ia, this seminar is geared towards degree in banking and finance. educating the youth in the constit- Senator Shenella Govia “Youth for Labour is guided by uencies on how to correctly write the ABLP Creed in its belief in a resume and guidelines on how Over thirty-five young people equality of opportunity and justice, being well equipped for the job participated in the first in a series in the empowerment of our peo- interview is important for securing of workshops aimed at improving ple. In line with this, the training a job. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 6 CUBA: A victim of American terrorism The Leonard Tim a mockery of inter- many terrorist acts professionals to fight Hector Memorial national relations against the govern- disease, poverty and Committee (LTHMC) and politics that the ment and People of underdevelopment. strongly denounces present US Govern- Cuba, resulting in In contrast to the and condemns the ment considers itself many deaths since US, the Cuban Gov- hypocritical desig- to be the arbiter of the victorious Cuban ernment and peo- nation of Cuba as a such declarations. Revolution in 1959. ple have honourably State Sponsor of Ter- America’s history How can we forget fought against illit- rorism by the Trump is replete with the the most horrific and eracy, Apartheid, the Administration. use of terrorism in murderous terrorist evils of colonialism For that corrupt overthrowing dem- bombing of Cubana and imperialism, and and racist Trump Ad- ocratically elected Flight 455 over Bar- have struggled for ministration, which governments, for ex- bados on 6th Octo- the right to self-de- has been the archi- ample: In 1954, the ber, 1976? The seven- termination and na- tect and instigator US Central Intelli- ty-three (73) persons tional sovereignty. of terrorism interna- gence Agency (CIA) on board were killed. We call on the in- tionally and now na- deposed Guatemalan The Cuban Gov- ternational commu- tionally, to assume President, Jacobo ernment, instead nity - once more - to the moral authority Arbenz; and in 1973, of sending bombs speedily denounce to carry out such a President Salva- and fomenting war, the US illegal and nefarious designa- dor Allende in Chile has sent across the murderous blockade tion of Cuba flies - where thousands globe - for years - against Cuba, and in the face of jus- were slaughtered. thousands of doc- its latest sinister and tice and historical The US Govern- tors, nurses, engi- malicious designa- facts. It amounts to ment has conducted neers, and other tion of Cuba. PAGE 7 FEATURE MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Biography of Neville Henry “One Hundred years of living: the years of existence for Mr. Neville Henry”

Neville Henry was born ing England and . 16th January, 1921 to Sophie Neville possesses an exten- Jonas in the Village of Ce- sive knowledge of the Brit- dar Grove. Neville was one ish Monarchy and he loves of twelve children of which the Queen and the English six were Sophie’s - Arthur, traditions. Fergurson, Neville, Theo- The secrets to Neville’s dore, Eunice and Elfrieda. longevity and to his sixty Only three of the children years of marriage are the are still alive – Neville, Elfrie- blessings from the Almighty da and Fernella (Dora). God, and his contented, Neville grew up on calm and stress free lifestyle. Church Street in St. John’s. He worries about nothing He attended the Moravian and he does not smoke or School and the St. John’s consume any alcohol. Boys School. He also at- Neville was always a tended the Anglican Church. healthy person until his lat- His favourite sports growing er years when he experi- up were cricket and foot- enced some medical chal- ball. lenges. However, with God’s Neville lost his mother at grace, very good medical age 10 in 1931. After her care and his strong will to death, he was forced to live, he was always able to grow up very quickly, and in Neville Henry overcome. Throughout all of the process, he became an his medical challenges and independent and respon- Semper and in 1960 they Neville takes pride in being setbacks, he would always sible young man. He did were joined in holy matri- a loving and caring father say to the doctors, “Doc, I many handyman jobs, even mony. They have been able to all of his children. He has know that I have to die, do running balls at the Tennis to hold on to this union, twenty-nine grandchildren whatever you need to do.” Club to earn extra money strong in love and commit- and seventeen great grand- Neville is kind, generous to assist in the care of his ment - sixty years of mar- children. His love for them is and compassionate to his younger siblings. He worked riage. Neville came into the immeasurable. many dear friends and rel- as a cook at the US Army union with two children: Joan Neville enjoys cooking, atives including the sisters, Base and learnt his trade of and Courtney Henry in the baking and walking. His fa- nieces and nephews he in- carpentry from a neighbour US. Together, Neville and vourite foods are rice and herited through marriage. at the age of fourteen. Ann had seven children - our well-known local fun- He is loved dearly by all. Neville was a master car- Maria Henry Lambert, Nev- gee. He is well travelled Everyone wants to be and penter - particular, com- ille Jr., Joseph ‘Jowato’, John, and here are some of the live just like uncle Neville, the mitted and takes a lot of Jerome, Jo-Anne, and Nelvie countries he has visited: name he is lovingly called pride in his work. He built Henry Howard - a total of England, France, Germany, by all. his home in which he cur- nine children. Eight of the Israel, Canada, Bermuda, As we celebrate his 100th rently resides on Athill Street. nine children migrated to Puerto Rico, The Bahamas birthday, we hope with the No storm, no hurricane has New York. Joseph Henry still and several states in the US blessings of the Almighty, he ever removed one piece of resides in Antigua, a choice - California, Florida, New will live to see many more. galvanize from this place; he made on his own not to York, Rhode Island. He be- The family is humbly re- thus, it remains in its original migrate. came this world traveller questing for the street on form. Neville and Ann Henry after he finally got his first which he lives to be named In 1958, Neville met Ann are both exemplary parents. passport. He loved visit- in his honour. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 FEATURE PAGE 8 Biography of Jane Ann Lee Gould

Lovely Jane was born She had no children. on 19th January 1920, at Through her work as a George Street, Plymouth, domestic, she made strong Montserrat. and lasting relations with Her mom was Amelia her employers. She often Lambert, also known as spoke fondly of the Fran- “Tooksie,” and her father cises on Factory Road, the was Ben Lee. Ben left Jonases of Potters and the Montserrat to seek fortune wonderful Simpson family, in the Dominican Republic also of Potters. and was never to return. In 1980 at age 60 she was His parents, Jane’s grand- employed with Arah and parents, always told Jane George Derrick of Scott’s he would come back and Hill and was eventually gave her a picture of him morphed into their family. (Tooksie subsequently de- Upon Arah’s passing, Jane stroyed it years after in a hung on to her daughter fit of frustration). She knew Jennifer and insisted that no father. she work with her. Jennifer Jane was Tooksie’s first Jane Ann Lee Gould then became her employer, child of eight (Liza, John, stepdaughter and eventual James, Mary, Joey and Flor- help “look after” Viola for a designated to “look after.” caregiver. ence) and was assigned while. When it was time for In 1942 she was married to In 2009 Jane at age 89 the task of “looking after” Jane to return, she landed handsome Craddy Gould, she moved in and lived them. All of her siblings are a job as a domestic helper who had actually trav- with Jennifer at her Potters all now deceased. and she chose to stay in elled to Montserrat to ask home. In 2018 when Jennifer She migrated to Antigua Antigua. Tooksie for Jane’s hand in had to do extensive travels, at the age of 17 (in 1937) She became a profes- marriage and this marriage she placed Jane at Bishop with her mother’s friend, sional at her discipline and lasted until his death in 1991 J. E. Knight Nursing Home, Viola Nedd from Barbuda was able to juggle the tasks (49 years). As a married where she now resides. who was visiting Montser- of the kitchen, laundry and couple they lived at Grays Jane turns 100 on 19th rat and who lived in Cedar housekeeping and manag- Hill, St. Johnston’s Village, January, 2020. Grove. She came to Anti- ing the children from babies and finally at St Johnston’s God’s richest blessings gua to spend time and to to kindergarten she was Boulevard, Sutherlands. are wished for her. PAGE 9 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Hot on the market! Shebah’s creations heating up the pepper sauce industry By Angelica O’Dono- er, although we were able ghue It may be a new to expand we were and year, but the COVID-19 still somewhat hindered pandemic, and all its dev- because we are unable to asting effects, are still rav- tap into certain markets or ishing. Despite the opti- clientele because of the mism of our leaders, the pandemic.” pandemic’s effect on the Just like most business economy seemingly has start-ups, Naomi admitted not slowed down either. that they did need finance However, for some, the to get their business off the pandemic has availed an ground. Nonetheless, they opportunity to dive into were able to create an the world of entrepreneur- impressionable brand and ship. May it be out of dire have even received advice need due to unemploy- from other hot sauce en- ment, or the desire to seize trepreneurs when solicited. opportunities created by Shebah’s Hot Sauce has an economic fallout. seemingly gathered a lot According to the Wall of steam in the media Street Journal, “Americans lately, which caught the are starting new busi- taste of the Prime Minister. nesses at the fastest rate The business couple got in more than a decade, a chance to have the according to government country’s leader sample data, seizing on pent-up their creation earlier this demand and new oppor- month. During the ‘meet tunities after the pandemic and greet’ with Prime shut down and reshaped Minister Gaston Browne, the economy.” Naomi explained that the Looking at the influx of flavoured pepper sauces new local brands on the are from seasonal fruits shelves, articles shared and the pandemic, a thought and that is what we aimed and are highly sort af- the litany of business cards that was replaced by their for,” Naomi said. ter. “Our product is local, circulating these days, it is hectic work schedules as a Naomi emphasized that Southern Antiguan, our my opinion, that the same Customs Officer and a Po- the COVID-19 pandemic logo was hand-drawn lo- could be said about Anti- lice Officer. However, the created the opportunity to cally, our labels are locally guans and Barbudans. government-imposed lock- start this thriving business. sourced, our peppers are This week, Naomi Joseph down in 2020 gave them The young businesswom- locally sourced, everything and Ed Darroux from She- the much-needed time to an, who is also a Customs is done locally,” Naomi bah’s Creations Enterprise initiate and execute their Officer explained, “at the proudly expounded. “We have proven just that. business idea. height of the COVID pan- started this business in The business couple cre- According to Naomi, the demic I was placed on a 2020, during the height of ates and bottles one of real thrust behind ventur- shift system; in light of this the pandemic,” the entre- the hottest hot sauces to ing into the hot sauce in- we had more time to focus preneur continued. have hit the local market dustry was bearing witness on the business and were After sampling the pep- in years, a business that to the many complaints able to expand not only per sauces, PM Browne was only officially started about not having a sauce the developing idea but said, “Let me commend in April of 2020. Accord- that brings a balance of also having the sauces in you, both of you. I have ing to the couple, the idea heat and flavour. “Different different supermarkets and to admit that this is easily of starting such a business foods require a different restaurants (once the cur- one of the hottest pepper was only a thought before hot sauce experience - few relaxed a bit). Howev- sauces I have had. I want MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY PAGE 10 cont’d from pg 9 to commend you both on creating also have our eyes set on exporting. this very beautiful pepper sauce We’ve managed to capture the at- line of various flavours. It shows the tention of some hot sauce enthusi- type of creativity and innovativeness asts overseas but we have not quite of our people. The fact that even worked out the logistics of exporting though you both have careers other as yet,” the businesswoman divulged. than this entrepreneurial programme The young entrepreneurs conclud- that you are pursuing, is even more ed their interview by offering a few encouraging for others to follow, to words of advice to other budding show that we can be multifaceted; business owners. “Write down your we need not just follow a single ca- plan and do not be afraid to exe- reer path, but we can do multiple cute it. Having a strong and positive things. I think this is truly creative; team around you is very beneficial I want to commend you both as a to how far you will go. You must be Customs Officer and a Police Officer, able to validate the people around you’ve found the time to satisfy the you. If they are not where you see national demand for good quality yourself later in life then they can- pepper sauce.” Naomi Joseph not push you to become the person Though Shebah’s creations are still you are aspiring to be. If they are considered new on the market, the bah’s brand. Currently, we have six not going to handle your affairs with entrepreneurs revealed that they available flavours: Regular, Extra Hot a winning attitude then it makes no have plans of expanding. “Shebah’s which is Ed’s favorite, Blazin Mango, sense to involve them!” Creations is not just Hot Sauce. We Flamin Papaya which is my favor- To find out more about Shebah’s will have a variety of spices and we ite, Hot Passion, and Spicy Tamarind. hot sauce, you can find them on are planning to introduce a local We are aiming for our pineapple fla- Facebook Instagram at “Shebah’s based ketchup, all under the She- voured sauce later in the year. We Hot Sauce.” PAGE 11 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 CARICOM BUSINESS REPORT A Weekly Business News Aggregate on Service Compiled and Edited by the Directorate of Trade & Economic Integration at the CARICOM Secretariat

EC dollar 97% backed by foreign re- cover from the global economic crisis,” Revenue collection in The Bahamas serves - ECCB a release from the Government-owned lags behind region Governor of the Eastern Caribbean bank stated. The NBB reportedly plans The IDB in its Caribbean Quarterly Bul- Central Bank (ECCB), Timothy Antoine, to have a soft launch of the NBB Pay letin suggests that The Bahamas carry says the currency in the sub-region, re- eWallet in early 2021, followed by a out revisions to its revenue collect on mains “very strong” amid the economic roll-out to all customers and businesses policy and administration on in order fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. around mid-2021. With the e-wallet, us- to generate greater revenue collect In his Christmas message, Antoine not- ers can conduct customer-to-customer, on in the years ahead. According to ed, “Our EC dollar remains very strong. business-to-business, customer-to-busi- the bulletin, The Bahamas’ revenue Its current backing in foreign reserves ness transfers, or vice versa, as well as has averaged fifteen per cent of the is 97%.” He also said the ECCB record- pay bills. This partnership with Bi comes country’s GDP; the regional average ed a profit of $63.1 million. However, at a time when the entity is working is twenty-four per cent. “The Bahamas’ Antoine noted that the Currency Union with the Eastern Caribbean Central primary fiscal deficit averaged 1.3% is experiencing its largest shock, noting Bank and Central Bank of to of GDP between FY 2009/2010 and the projected decline of 16.2% in 2020. launch their own government-backed FY2019/2020, which contributed to in- “Looking ahead, we project the ECCU digital currencies — DCash and mMon- creasing the debt level from 35.1% of will grow by five per cent next year, ey respectively. GDP in FY2009/2010 to 69.2% of GDP as tourism, our dominant export, slowly Shippers not accepting TT dollars as in FY2019/2020,” the bulletin noted. The recovers,” he stated. forex woes deepen Bank suggests the establishment of Inflation declines by 1.6% in Cayman Commencing January 2021 some four unit “devoted to preparing economic Consumer prices the Cayman Islands shipping companies in Trinidad and To- studies that can analyze tax collection declined by 1.6% in the third quarter bago will no longer be accepting TT trends, monitor the hidden economy, of 2020 relative to the same period dollars, opting to accepting payment examine revenue yields from audits, last year, mainly due to lower electric- of freight charges only in United States understand taxpayer behaviour and ity, water and gas bills and the declin- dollars. The four shipping agents are provide input to government budget- ing cost of transport. Since the sec- King Ocean Services, Tropical Ship- ing processes.” ond quarter of 2020, prices dropped ping, Crowley Trinidad Ltd. and Sea- Jamaica’s inflation rate stands at by 0.8%. Five of the 12 categories that board Marine (Trinidad) Ltd. Accord- five per cent make up the consumer price index ing to a press release from Seaboard According to the Statistical Institute recorded lower prices. Year-on-year, Marine, “Effective 17th January, 2021, of Jamaica (STATIN), the inflation rate consumers saw lower prices in the we have adopted a policy requiring for November 2020 was 0.6%. The in- third quarter for electricity (-24.6%), wa- all freight charges paid in Trinidad to crease in the inflation rate was main- ter (-15.3%) and gas (-2.2%). Transport be done in US dollars. The continued ly due to an increase of 1.7% in the costs declined following a 14.1% drop in difficulty of converting Trinidad and To- heavily weighted ‘Food and Non-Al- fuel prices. However, consumers have bago dollars into U.S. dollars has made coholic Beverages’ division. There was been paying about 5.5% more for food adoption of this policy necessary and a 1.8% upward movement in the index and non-alcoholic beverages than in is applicable on all charges listed on for the ‘Food’ group, which was mainly the third quarter of 2019. Carrier’s bills of lading,” it stated. The attributed to an increase of 5.7 % in Belize to launch NBB Pay e-wallet in Shipping Association of T&T has over the index for the class ‘Vegetables, tu- early 2021 twenty-four shipping agents as mem- bers, plantains, cooking bananas and The National Bank of Belize (NBB) bers. For the period January to Octo- pulses’. This was primarily influenced by has solicited the expertise of Barba- ber 2020 foreign exchange sales by higher prices for agricultural produce dos-based financial technology firm Bi all authorized dealers in T&T totalled such as carrot, cabbage, tomato and to create and launch a digital wallet US$3.757 billion or twenty-five per cent sweet pepper as a result of reduced that will complement the bank’s mo- less than the $5.01 billion sold for the supplies due to adverse weather con- bile banking services. “NBB is licensing rest ten months of 2019. Indeed, on 1st ditions. For the review period, the cal- a digital currency infrastructure from December, Scotiabank imposed a limit endar year-to-date inflation rate was Bi to support retail and business us- of US$500 on the holders of its busi- five per cent, the point- to-point 4.3% ers’ access to simple secure and ef- ness credit cards in terms of foreign and the fiscal year-to-date was 3.7% ficient payment solutions as they re- currency transactions. as at November 2020. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 REGIONAL NEWS PAGE 12 Glow at SVG Volcano is not an explosive eruption – scientist

Officials say the glow is natural and there is no need to panic or evacuate

(iWitness News SVG): Vincent and the Gren- Robertson said, “As so far because it was The National Emergen- adines at this moment,” the dome gets bigger — below the rim. But as cy Management Organ- Forbes said. and it has gotten bigger the mountain (the new isation (NEMO) said, “That is a normal part — people will begin, on dome) inside gets closer late Saturday night, that of an effusive eruption,” the western flanks, espe- and closer to the [rim there was no explosive she said, noting that cially in Chateaubelair, of the volcano] you be- eruption of La Soufriere. Professor Richard Rob- will begin to see what gin to see more of the Residents of North ertson, a geologist from we call in volcanology, glow,” Robertson said. Leeward have reported the Seismic Research incandescence or glow- “Eventually, when it seeing “fire” at the vol- Centre in Trinidad which ing of the dome,” Rob- gets high enough, they cano, which has been is monitoring the volca- ertson said. are going to actual- erupting effusively since no, had spoken about “And this is natural be- ly see the mountain late December. this glow weeks ago. cause the volcano has (dome) itself. And I will “The magma continues And, in a separate call been erupting and has like to prepare them for to flow out of the crater, to NBC Radio Saturday been erupting hot ma- the fact that as it gets so that is a normal part night, Robertson, who terial, creating a moun- bigger, you are gonna of an effusive eruption,” is originally from Rose tain of very hot materi- see the glow more.” Director of NEMO Mi- Hall, urged the public to als. The materials have He said one way in chelle Forbes said on remain calm, saying the temperatures of 500 or which the dome grows NBC Radio. glow at the volcano is 600 degrees Celsius. is by pushing out mate- “We are asking per- expected. These materials natural- rial at the outer flanks sons to remain calm. As a result of the effu- ly give off a glow.” of the volcano. There is no explosive sive eruption, a second He said it is difficult The material, in turn, eruption at the moment. dome is growing inside to see the glow during spills off. There is no evacua- the volcano alongside the day because of the He said this results in tion order for anywhere the one that result- brightness of the sun, rock falls and during the above the Dry River or ed from the explosive but it is visible at night. day, persons will see any community in St. eruption of 1979. “You hadn’t seen it dust as the rock falls. PAGE 13 REGIONAL NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Trinidad and Tobago top cop meets ‘persons of interest’ over gang threats (Loop TT): Commis- sages purporting to such sioner of Police Gary activities, which were Griffith met Friday night circulated and which with several well-known caused fear and panic “persons of interest,” ad- among the population. vising them that the Trin- One of the WhatsApp idad and Tobago Police messages indicated that Service (TTPS) will re- “gangsters in and around spond quickly if there are Port of Spain and envi- any attempts to escalate rons are actively prepar- gang-related criminal ing to engage in all-out activity in the country. war with each other, as The warning follows nu- a mutual ‘truce’ has bro- Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith /PHOTO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO POLICE SERVICE merous WhatsApp mes- ken down.” cont’d on pg 14 Mild warning as sharks appear near regional shores

Fisherman Lyle Robin- Swimming and diving son said he and other instructor, Don Layne, fishermen were indeed who also works as a life- having a rougher time guard, said that though from a lack of business shark attacks are serious rather than a fear of incidents, these animals sharks. seldom attack swimmers “Last season, like this as often portrayed in time, flying fish was pop culture. More often scarce, right now the than not, sharks are seen [numbers] are coming outside their usual hab- back really slowly, but itats when disturbed by they are starting to pick changes in their environ- up,” he explained. “Most ment he said. boats are catching them Layne said: “There is well now, no big set, but nothing really to fear per (Barbados Today): Affairs issued the caution they are doing a lot bet- se because sharks gen- With recent shark sight- while pointing out that no ter than December and erally don’t like the taste ings and attacks in sharks have been spotted the earlier parts of Jan- of humans, they don’t go neighbouring Caribbe- close enough to beaches uary.” after people. Most shark an islands making news to cause any concern. Vendors at both com- attack and shark attack over the weekend, swim- On Thursday, a Bar- plexes mirrored Robin- victims are caused by a mers, fisherfolk and wa- bados Today team visit- son’s view that the last case of mistaken identi- tercraft operators in Bar- ed both the Oistins and several months have ty because sharks do not bados have been urged Fish Mar- been hard on the indus- have the best eyesight. to be on the look-out ket, to talk to fishermen try, but that a possible As long as you do not for the carnivorous crea- about any concerns they shark sighting would not panic and remain calm, tures venturing closer to may have about plying be a major concern for they are [rarely] drawn shores. their trade because of them. to you in their curiosity.” The Ministry of Maritime the new threat. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 REGIONAL NEWS PAGE 14 US says sorry – Jamaica Gov’t slapped with ‘sold out’ label (Jamaica Gleaner): With terson and Warren Rowe ongoing discussions which implementation as well as tension simmering in Ja- – have reportedly been led to sharp rebukes from its strong disappointment maica over a controver- left traumatized by their the Opposition which ac- at recent developments, sial decision by the Unit- detention, which started cused the Government including the failure of the ed States authorities to on 11th October last year of selling out Jamaicans. US authorities to commu- nab four Jamaican men when their boat, Lady She outlined that there nicate critical information and destroy their boat, Lawla, was boarded by are several areas of the on the dismissal of the alleging it was carrying the United States Coast agreement which can be case as envisaged by the cocaine, high-level talks Guard. They were, howev- improved. agreement. I am pleased, between the two coun- er, released after a Flori- “One, following search however, to advise that tries are now under way da judge determined that and boarding of inter- the bilateral engagement to make amendments to the containers were prov- cepted vessels, and two was constructive and frank the Shiprider Agreement en to have only gasoline. relating to the status of and undertaken in a spirit which is at the centre of The men landed in Jamai- nationals from the time of of cooperation and mutu- the wrangle. ca on 31st December, last grant of the waiver up to al respect. Apologies were The Shiprider Agreement year, after being detained the outcome of any legal extended to the Jamaican allows the United States for two months in the US or judicial action pursued side by the United States and Jamaican law enforc- without charge. against them,” Johnson regarding the handling of ers, with the permission of A year and a half ago, Smith stated. the matter,” Johnson Smith either party, to intercept in the midst of revelations The foreign affairs min- told the Senate. suspect vessels in each of the trammelling and ister told the Senate that But in a charged seg- other’s territorial waters, mistreatment of five fish- the US authorities have ment of Friday’s sitting, to apprehend vessels and ermen by the US Coast apologized for its han- Opposition Senator Lam- crew.It also provides for Guard, Foreign Minister dling of what turned out bert Brown knocked the the waiver of prosecutori- Kamina Johnson Smith to be a nightmare for the Government hard for the al jurisdiction over the is- promised a review of Ja- Jamaicans. ordeal. He said the Gov- land’s citizens. maica’s Shiprider Agree- “The Jamaican Govern- ernment did not act ap- The men – Anthony ment with the United ment expressed in very propriately and “sold out Clark (captain), Radcliffe States. Johnson Smith up- clear terms certain steps Jamaican interest in this Simmons, Howard Pat- dated the Senate on the key to bridging gaps in matter.” cont’d from pg 13 It added that “law en- Patrol Branch and the he received hundreds were met with immediate forcement should expect POS Taskforce. of messages from con- resistance by the TTPS. a series of gang shoot- Following this meeting, cerned members of the As a result of the mes- ings and people’s homes several persons of inter- public about the veracity sages which were cir- getting burned down.” est were brought into the of the messages. culating yesterday, the According to a state- Besson Street and St Jo- Griffith made it clear commissioner said the ment from the TTPS, im- seph Police Stations. that if the messages cir- TTPS has put certain mediately upon receipt Commissioner Griffith culating had any truth, measures in place should of this information, Dep- visited both police sta- the TTPS will move swift- any attempts be made uty Commissioner of Po- tions, where he issued a ly to take down any at- to escalate gang-related lice (Ag), ‘Operations’ stern warning to persons tempts to escalate any criminal activity. Joanne Archie held a co- of interest that were be- gang-related criminal Griffith further advised ordinating meeting with ing held there, making it activity that brings in- the public to be wary various specialized and clear to them that the convenience to the pub- of misinformation that is intelligence units, includ- “TTPS will not tolerate lic. being circulated on so- ing GEB, SIU, MOB and any plans among groups He also reminded the cial media. IATF, POS CID, all First to cause any mayhem “persons of interest” of He said there is no in- Division officers of POSD, and destruction.” the attempts made at the telligence to verify these the Traffic and Highway The commissioner said end of June 2020, which alleged threats. PAGE 15 INTERNATIONAL NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Phil Spector: Pop producer jailed for murder dies at 81

son. His life was ultimately His death was confirmed blighted by drug and al- by the California Depart- cohol addiction, and he all ment of Corrections and but retired from the mu- Rehabilitation. sic scene during the 1980s “California Health Care and 1990s. Facility inmate Phillip Spec- In February 2003, ac- tor was pronounced de- tress Lana Clarkson was ceased of natural causes found dead at his house at 6:35 p.m. on Saturday, in Alhambra, California 16th January, 2021, at an with a bullet wound to her outside hospital. His offi- head. Spector claimed the cial cause of death will be shooting happened when determined by the medical Clarkson “kissed the gun” examiner in the San Joa- - but his trial heard from

Phil Spector pictured in court during his murder trial quin County Sheriff’s Of- four women who claimed fice,” it said. Spector had threatened (BBC): US music produc- of sound” recordings, Spector produced twen- them with guns in the past er Phil Spector has died at worked with the Beatles, ty Top 40 hits between 1961 when they had spurned his the age of 81, while serv- the Righteous Brothers and 1965, AFP news agen- advances. ing a prison sentence for and Ike and Tina Turner. In cy reports. His production Following an initial mistri- murder. 2009, he was convicted of methods influenced major al, Spector was convicted Spector, who trans- the 2003 murder of Holly- artists including the Beach of second degree murder formed pop with his “wall wood actress Lana Clark- Boys and Bruce Spring- and given a sentence of 19 steen. years to life. Quake death toll at 78 as Indonesia struggles with string of disasters (Reuters): At least seven- others went to cramped evacua- ing thousands. ty-eight people have been killed tion centres, witnesses said. Just two weeks into the new after an earthquake struck In- Police and military officers have year, the world’s fourth-most donesia’s West Sulawesi prov- been deployed to crack down on populous country is battling sev- ince on Friday, the Search and looting in several parts of the eral disasters. Rescue agency (Basarnas) said region, BNPB spokesman Raditya Floods in South Kalimantan on Sunday, the latest in a string Jati said. and North Sulawesi have respec- of disasters to hit the Southeast An emergency response status, tively killed at least fifteen and Asian country. intended to help rescue efforts, five this month, while landslides In a statement, Basarnas con- has also been put in place for in West Java province have killed firmed seventy-eight had died, two weeks, Raditya said. at least thrity-two, authorities sixty-seven of whom were from Dwikorita Karnawati, the head said. the district of Mamuju and the of Indonesia’s meteorological, cli- On 9th January, a Sriwijaya Air rest from the district of Majene matology and geophysical agen- jet crashed into the Java Sea in West Sulawesi. cy (BMKG), has said that another with sixty-two onboard. More than seven hundred and quake in the region could poten- East Java’s Semeru mountain forty people were injured and tially trigger a tsunami. erupted late on Saturday, but over 27,800 left their homes af- Straddling the so-called Pacific there have been no reports of ter the 6.2 magnitude quake, Ring of Fire, Indonesia is regular- casualties or evacuations. the country’s disaster mitigation ly hit by earthquakes. In 2018, a Dwikorita said extreme weather agency separately (BNPB) said in devastating 7.5-magnitude quake and other “multi-dangers” of hy- a situation report. Some sought and subsequent tsunami struck drometeorology are forecast in refuge in the mountains, while the city of Palu, in Sulawesi, kill- the coming weeks. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 INTERNATIONAL NEWS PAGE 16 Statehouses, US capital brace for potentially violent week

(Associated Press): In Columbus, Ohio, The threat of extremist nearly every business groups demonstrating around the downtown at statehouses across capital square was the United States boarded up. In Lansing, prompted some gover- Michigan, police with nors to roll out a show dogs patrolled on foot, of force and ramp up and a helicopter hov- security Sunday, less ered overhead. In At- than two weeks after lanta, armored vehicles a mob overran the na- were stationed on Cap- tion’s Capitol Building. itol grounds. Fencing, boarded-up Wisconsin National windows and extra Guard troops armed police and National with rifles, shields and Guard troops trans- A National Guard soldier stands outside the Capitol building in body armor arrived formed some state- Frankfort, Ky., Sunday, 17th Jan., 2021. The Capitol, the Capitol near the state Capitol complex, and surrounding grounds have been closed as authorities houses ahead of ex- brace for potentially violent demonstrations over the coming days. on Sunday morning. A pected protests leading man who drove a vehi- up to President-elect The FBI has warned sylvania. One count- cle up the steps of the Joe Biden’s inaugura- of the potential for er-protester came early Capitol building was tion on Wednesday. armed protests at the to greet any demon- arrested overnight for But the grounds around nation’s Capitol and strators at the Pennsyl- driving while intoxicat- capitols were generally all fifty state capitol vania Capitol, saying ed. empty and quiet early buildings beginning this he had heard about the Security in Washing- Sunday. weekend. Some social possibility of a meet-up ton, D.C., has also in- The stepped-up se- media messages had of a far-right militant tensified ahead of the curity measures were targeted Sunday for group. But no one else inauguration. Tall fenc- intended to safeguard demonstrations, though was there. ing surrounds the U.S. seats of government it remained unclear “I’m fundamental- Capitol, the National from the type of vio- how many people might ly against the poten- Mall is closed to the lence that occurred at show up. tial protesters coming general public, and the the U.S. Capitol on 6th On Sunday morning, here to delegitimize the District of Columbia’s January, when support- state police and Na- election, and I don’t mayor asked people ers of President Don- tional Guard troops want to be passive in not to visit. Some 25,000 ald Trump swarmed the stood sentry around a expressing my disap- National Guard troops building while Congress number of statehouses, proval of them coming from around the coun- was certifying the Elec- including those in Mich- into this city,” Stephen try were due in the city toral College vote. igan, Ohio and Penn- Rzonca said. by early in the week. PAGE 17 INTERNATIONAL NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 FBI probing Capitol riot link to foreign governments, groups (Aljazeera): The FBI ious other federal and is investigating wheth- DC-area police agencies er foreign governments, noted since the deadly organizations or individ- 6th January riot, “Russian, uals provided financial Iranian, and Chinese support to people who influence actors have helped plan and execute seized the opportunity to the 6th January attack amplify narratives in fur- on the Capitol, a news therance of their policy report said on Sunday. interest amid the presi- As part of the investiga- dential transition.” tion, the FBI is examining Russian state and proxy payments of $500,000 in media outlets “have am- bitcoin, apparently by a plified themes related to French national, to key the violent and chaotic Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol building on 6th January figures and groups in the nature of the Capitol Hill far right before the riot, Bitcoin payments can be programmer who took incident, impeachment of one current and one for- traced because they are his own life on 8th De- President Donald Trump, mer FBI official told NBC documented on a public cember last year after and social media cen- News. ledger. triggering the transfers, sorship,” the unclassified The payments were The current FBI official according to French me- intelligence report said. documented and post- was quoted as saying dia. “In at least one instance, ed online last week by a the bitcoin transfers ap- The cryptocurrency a Russian proxy claimed company that analyses pear to have been made payments prompted the that ANTIFA members cryptocurrency transfers. by a French computer FBI to examine wheth- disguised themselves as er any of the money supporters of President was used to fund illegal Trump, and were respon- acts, which, if true, raises sible for storming the the possibility of money Capitol building.” laundering and conspira- Chinese media, mean- cy charges, the FBI offi- while, “have seized the cial said. story to denigrate US On 8th December, democratic governance, Chainalysis reported the casting the United States donor sent 28.15 BTC – as broadly in decline worth about $522,000 at – and to justify China’s the time of transfer – to crackdown on protesters twenty-two separate ad- in Hong Kong.” dresses, many of which The examination of pos- belong to far-right ac- sible foreign influence re- tivists. The Chainalysis lated to the Capitol riot, blog post, first highlight- which involves the FBI’s ed by Yahoo News, said counterintelligence divi- far-right podcaster Nick sion, comes after years Fuentes received the of what current and for- most money, 13.5 BTC – mer FBI officials say is worth about $250,000. mounting evidence that Separately, a joint Russia and other foreign threat assessment issued adversaries have sought last week by the FBI, the to secretly support “po- Department of Home- litical extremists” on the land Security, and var- far right and far left. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 FUN ZONE PAGE 18

QuickQUICK crossword CROSSWORD no 15,683 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Across 1 Reproach (6) 8 4 Bath powder (6) 9 Fix (7) 10 Metrical units with an unstressed and a stressed syllable (5) 9 10 11 Dagger symbols (††) used as reference marks in printed matter (5) 12 White crystalline sugar that comes in many forms (7) 13 Passed-along missive (5,6) 18 River running over the Victoria Falls (7) 11 12 20 O -white colour (5) 22 Car race run over public roads (5) 23 Student with the same background as David Cameron and Boris Johnson (7) 24 Small fairy (6) 13 14 15 25 Wing added to a building (6)

16 17 Down 1 Think logically (6) 2 Push into (5) 18 19 20 21 3 Raft built by Thor Heyerdahl for his 1947 crossing of the Pacic (3-4) 5 Au revoir (5) 6 Fruit cooked or preserved in syrup (7) 7 Badly wounded (6) 22 23 8 Wild cat from the Indian subcontinent (6,5) 14 More modest (7) 15 Tropical cyclone in the Indian and Pacic Oceans (7) 16 Portuguese mid-Atlantic archipelago (6) 17 Flat rim on a wheel to keep it on a rail (6) 24 25 19 Land of the Pharaohs (5) 21 Get up (5)

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. PAGE 19 WHAT’S UP MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 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 drive for success simply can’t The next time you speak with an older steer you wrong right now, so let it relative, ask them a few questions about ing operations from December 15, 2020 to January 15, 2021. All introduce you to new and exciting the family’s past. They have an awful lot property owners are asked to take note as no inspections and circumstances today. Tackling difficult to teach you about history, perseverance covid-19 certifications will be executed during this period. For new challenges might not be the first and maintaining hope when there may thing on your wish list. not be much of a reason to do so. more information contact the department t 468-4061/4003.

TAURUS | Apr. 20-May 20 SCORPIO Oct. | 23-Nov. 21 t’s time to celebrate the fact that There are some amazing people in you’re feeling more grounded than your life right now, and you should set ever in your personal life. The people aside some time to get to know them you’re spending time with totally get a lot better. They will welcome your who you are, accept who you are, increased attention and reward your and love who you are! curiosity with juicy gossip and tips.

GEMINI | May 21-June 20 SAGITTARIUS | Nov. 22-Dec. 21 You might be having a hard time get- Music could bring you a lot of joy ting along with someone you usual- today, so listen to your favorite tunes ly like, but it won’t last very long, so whenever you can, while you’re getting don’t worry. There is a lot of tension ready in the morning, running errands, between the two of you through no cooking, cleaning, or doing some oth- fault of your own. er type of semi-mindless activity.

CANCER | June 21-July 22 CAPRICORN | Dec. 22-Jan. 19 You are always great at not letting prob- The big question for you is whether lems at work bleed over into your personal you go with your latest whim or stick to life, but not everyone in your life is quite so your previously made plans. This inde- good at it. Be on the lookout for moodi- cision might bring you to the edge of ness and grumpiness to blossom with one frustration, especially when so many of of the most important people in your life. your friends are pressuring you.

LEO | July 23-Aug. 22 AQUARIUS | Jan. 20-Feb. 18 You could get some good news to- If things are getting tense between day. In fact, it might send you over you and a friend or co-worker, don’t the moon! You need to be careful try and fight it. Sure, conflict is nev- not to let your enthusiasm distract er fun to deal with, but sometimes you too much from the business at it’s necessary to solve a problem or hand. move in a better direction.

VIRGO | Aug. 23-Sept. 22 PISCES | Feb. 19-Mar. 20 A person from your past may make a A kind word from you could help a strug- surprise appearance, and you have no gling co-worker immensely right now, so reason not to welcome them. No matter swallow your pride and give credit where how weird things got between the two of credit is due even if the person who de- you, right now this person is on your side serves the praise isn’t exactly your favorite and eager to help you get stuff done. person in the whole word.

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

PAGE 21 SPORTS NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Former WI captain Sammy inks perfume deal (Barbados Today): Former cap- tain of the West Indies Cricket team Daren Sammy and the first and only captain in history to win the T20 World Cup championship twice has signed a new licensing agree- ment with Asgharali, a family-owned business based in Bahrain creating high-quality fragrances since 1919. Asgharali has won the hearts of consumers worldwide and laid its footprint in the perfumery market and related business interests with over one hundred retail and fran- Former West Indies Cricket team captain Daren Sammy chise outlets and stores in the Mid- dle East and South Asia and over forty distributors worldwide in re- possible and that no matter where Asgharali is a great fit for the Sam- gions from Eastern Europe to South you started in life; greatness is in my brand with its strong heritage of America. you. I’m already very happy with the fragrance creation in Pakistan and The new signature perfume under new signature scents for men and UAE markets. the Daren Sammy trademark will in- women that Asgarali has created According to the CEO of Asgharag- clude a signature fragrance for men and the exquisite packaging design. li “We are honoured to collaborate and women. I can’t wait to share it with you all with Daren Sammy, creating a signa- According to Sammy, “I am super this year!” ture fragrance for him. Asgharali has excited to partner with Asghara- Sammy launched his eponymous always strived for excellence with a li to create this amazing fragrance. brand 88, Daren Sammy, at The long heritage in the fragrance mar- I’ve always enjoyed connecting with Landings St Lucia in 2019. ket that continues to gain its custom- people through my playing and in A brand licensing programme was er satisfaction and fulfil their desires. the stadiums. developed by his brand manager “Collaborating with Daren Sammy “It is my goal to continue this con- Hanna Fitz, to create product-based and adding his new signature scent nection by creating a scent that experiences for his millions of fans to Asgharali’s elite perfume collec- will exhibit the passion, power, and globally. Driven by his core brand tion is a great addition.” pleasure that is within us all. message “IT’S IN YOU™” Sammy is The superstar cricketer and “My desire is that people will feel creating product experiences that Asgharagli are expected to launch like a champion; like everything is empower people to walk in their the new fragrances for men and greatness and live their best life. women in summer 2021. MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 SPORTS NEWS PAGE 22 Australian Open to go ahead despite players’ quarantine anger

Forty-seven players COVID-19 infection and their entourages among the passengers have been placed in on the two chartered isolation in their hotel flights carrying players rooms in Melbourne to Melbourne. for two weeks. This Some affected players means that they will no complained about their longer be able to leave detention. Some of the their rooms to train, players in detention after three coronavirus complained on social infections were reported media that if they on two chartered were informed about flights carrying them to the rule before they Melbourne. would not have played Australian Open the Australian Open, tournament director instead opting to stay

Craig Tiley has Naomi Osaka arrives at the Australian Open home. Swiss player confirmed the year’s Belinda Bencic said she first Grand Slam will day quarantine, but are at altering the lead up and the other forty- go ahead from 8th permitted to leave their tournaments to help sex players were at a February, despite anger hotels for five hours affected players. disadvantage. from players forced a day to train, raising “We are reviewing the “We are not into hard quarantine questions about the schedule leading in to complaining about in Melbourne due to integrity of the Grand see what we can do to being in quarantine. COVID-19 cases on their Slam. assist these players,” We are complaining chartered planes. Tiley said the Tiley told the Nine because of unequal Other players who tournament would Network on Sunday. practice/playing arrived in different planes start as scheduled but Earlier, quarantine conditions before are also undertaking a governing body Tennis authorities said they quite an important mandatory fourteen- Australia would look had recorded a fourth tournament,” she said. PAGE 23 SPORTS NEWS MONDAY, 18 JANUARY, 2021 Walsh contracted COVID-19 in the Caribbean COVID-19 before he confirming the positivedistancing because it left the Caribbean for result. Dr. Mansingh minimizes the chance of Bangladesh. told CBC TV 8 Sports transmission to any other Dr. Akshai Mansingh, a in Barbados looking team member. member of the medical closely at the timeline, the Walsh, the son of former advisory committee, said evidence suggests that Antigua and Barbuda the incubation period for the player contracted the opening batsman Hayden the novel coronavirus was disease when he was in Walsh Sr, has been placed between five and seven the Caribbean, and not in isolation in a separate days, and noted that en route to, nor while in wing of the team hotel in Walsh tested negative Bangladesh. Dhaka, and will need to before departing the The Jamaican said the return two negative tests region and negative again players were advised before he is released. Hayden Walsh Jr. on arrival in Bangladesh to wear their masks for Dr. Mansingh said last Sunday. the duration of the flight Walsh is asymptomatic Cricket West Indies The 28-year-old returned and while at the airports. and the team is hoping (CWI) believe Hayden a positive test three days They were also instructed that he continues being Walsh Jr. contracted later, with a follow up test to maintain physical asymptomatic.

Wayne Rooney has officially retired from football

Former Manchester basis—inking a two-and- United and England star half year contract in his striker Wayne Rooney has first managerial role. retired from football, end- He retires as Manches- ing a decorated playing ter United and England’s career in the game. all-time record goal scor- Having joined Derby er and will go down as County as a player coach, one of the best players of the 35-year-old had re- his generation. cently taken charge of the Having burst onto the team on an interim basis scene as a 16-year-old Former Manchester United and England star striker Wayne Rooney following Phillip Cocu’s for boyhood club Everton, dismissal. And after an Rooney scored three hun- cord. league Cups, one FA Cup, impressive run during his dred and thirteen goals at He won a total of six- one Champions league, first nine games in charge, club level and hit 53 in 120 teen major honours at and one FIFA Club World Rooney has been given caps for England to break United, including five Pre- Cup during a glittering the job on a permanent Sir Bobby Charlton’s re- mier League titles, three stint. cont’d from pg 24 year. The Caribbean on the ground summer tour to England. a bio-secure bubble. side will play fifteen in Antigua and will Players arriving on The players will not be T20 matches against go into a bio-secure island later this month allowed to interact with Sri Lanka, South Africa, bubble this week. The will have to be tested the local population Australia, and Pakistan other territories are three days before because of safety as they prepare to expected on island travelling and will be concerns. bz defend their title. later this month. Each tested on arrival before Grave noted that the Grave also spoke player participating in going through a three- players in Bangladesh about the upcoming the tournament will be day quarantine period. will join their teams on CWI Super50, slated to tested according to the If the players test arrival from the South bowl-off in February. protocols established by negative on the fourth Asian country and this Leeward Hurricane CWI Medical committee day, they will then be year Super50 will be the players are already just before last year’s allowed to train within strongest ever. PAGE 24 MONDAY 18 JANUARY 2021 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG Packed schedule for Cricket West Indies in 2021

Cricket West Indies In June, South Africa is Chief Executive Officer expected in the region (CEO) Johnny Grave has for a re-arranged tour indicated 2021 will be a from last summer which busy year for the West did not happen because Indies cricket team, of the COVID-19 after being affected in pandemic. Just before 2020 by the coronavirus the Caribbean Premier pandemic. league (CPL) Pakistan Speaking to will arrive for a two PointeXpress, Grave Test series which forms said 2021 will see the part of the next cycle regional team playing for the World Test more cricket than ever Championship. before. The Caribbean There are three big players are presently One Day International in Bangladesh where series as part of the they will contest three qualification for the One Day International Super league, which will (ODIs) and two Tests see the Caribbean side before returning home play three ODIs prossibly to participate in the in Antigua in March, regional Super50 for their followed by three ODIs respective territories against Australia in July. and prepare to host Sri This year is a World Lanka in March in a two Cup year with West Test series. Indies looking to defend their T20 world Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Johnny Grave championship in India later this cont’d on pg 23

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