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FURTHERBy Jenique Belgrave EASEwindows on these vehicles kept open; no restrictions on the use of parks and ALL businesses around this island Monday reopening for all businesses beaches; sporting activities to be have been given the green light to while lifting several restrictions that to keep citizens from their workplaces. conducted as normal with limited restart operations come Monday, had been implemented in March to These include: the allowance of Public spectators, which will be specified at a under strict health protocols. reduce the spread of COVID-19. With Service Vehicles and buses to operate later date; the allowance of up to 250 Meanwhile, day-care centres are to the island recording no new cases for at full seating and half the stipulated persons at social events, with higher reopen on June 22. over two weeks and the latest being four standing capacities with all passengers numbers requiring guidance from the Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley new cases imported from the United required to wear masks, and with the made these announcements last night States, she declared there was no reason exception of inclement weather, the FURTHER EASE on Page 3

Opposition People’s Party for Democracy and Development (PdP) spokesperson for Culture, Alan Springer (second from right), explained that the Ministry of Creative Economy and Culture should be detached from Sports. (From left) Opposition Leader, Bishop Joseph Atherley; Energy spokesperson, Dr. Philip Corbin; and Health spokesperson, Paul Gibson. Separate Creative Economy and Sports, says Springer WHILE outlining the Alternative media in the Worthing Corporate change and that under the PdP,the role internationally,” said Springer. People’s Plan for the Creative Economy, Centre at the Office of the Opposition of the Ministry of Creative Economy One of the main reasons for the the Opposition People’s Party for Leader yesterday morning. He and Culture would change. change in the role, according to Democracy and Development (PdP) contended that the current Ministry of “Rather than micro-managing Springer, was to ensure less spokesperson for Culture, Alan Creative Economy, Culture and Sports projects and persons, its role will interference from the ministry in Springer, presented the argument that should be split to allow both sectors the be to act more as a legislative body, day-to-day operations of the sector, the Creative Economy and Sports time and focus necessary to develop as policymaker, strategic oversight, which would allow for the creatives to should be separate and distinct genuine economic engines. Also noted promoter of the arts and cultural run things on the ground. ministries. was that the separation into two sectors, and leading the drive to Springer presented the plan to the ministries was more than just a name source investment, both locally and PLAN on Page 2 2 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

No positive cases NONE of the 129 tests at Harrison Point, carried out for COVID-19 St. Lucy. Of the 96 by the Best-dos Santos confirmed cases, 52 are Public Health Laboratory females and 44 males. on Wednesday was posi- Eighty-three people have tive. Additionally, no one recovered and seven have was released from isola- died. tion yesterday. The public health As a result, six persons laboratory has completed remain in isolation 6,321 tests. Roman Catholic The public health laboratory has completed 6,321 tests. churches to reopen to public from tomorrow ROMAN Catholic (RC) set by the Government churches will reopen and the Diocese,” Fr. to the public this Nyga added. weekend (June 13), In a video message to after being closed for the Diocese, Archbishop almost three months. Gordon has asked people The churches were to show patience with the closed on March 19 when many protocols that need Barbados recorded its to be followed and the first cases of COVID-19. limited church space Fr. Andy Nyga, available. Co-Delegate of “It will take us a little Apostolic Administrator while to get this thing set- Archbishop Charles tled and to learn this new Jason Gordon, said the normal,” the Archbishop Church was reopening said. with great joy but also Persons wanting to at- with the awareness that tend Mass are asked to it will not be Mass as contact their parish office usual. for further information. “We want people to be The reopening of RC safe, and we want our churches this weekend churches to reopen and coincides with the major stay open. So, we are Christian celebration of making sure that people Corpus Christi – the know the ground rules Body and Blood of Christ. NCF’s role would change PLAN from Page 1 would come to an end. “These are not ‘cultural’ Another suggestion in spaces, but inherently the Alternative People’s spaces that showcase the Plan for the Creative arts. Art practitioners Economy is to revise the themselves must be seen role of the National to be the producers of Cultural Foundation the arts events in those (NCF). spaces, while the NCF will “It will no longer act as a have oversight of those producer of arts events, sectors that more obvi- but will be focused more ously straddle arts and on maintaining and devel- culture, such as festivals, oping our cultural spaces fashion and literature,” such as museums and Springer noted. heritage sites in a way to While the PdP sees the safeguard legacy,” ex- role of the NCF evolving plained Springer. to meet the needs of the The PdP cultural times, the foundation spokesperson expanded would continue to be the further, saying that the main organiser of cultural NCF management of art festivals including Crop installations such as Over.However,fundamen- Queen’s Park House, tally, the structure will the Queen’s Park Shed, lead to a culture shift, the Creative Space and which Springer said would Recording Centre at see the role of the NCF Pelican and the Dance move from one of a pro- Centre in West Terrace ducer to a facilitator. (AS) The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 3 Consultation on reopening of borders next week Island to receive spruce up, says PM THE possible reopen- ship is a lonely place and ness associate or visitor, ing of the island’s bor- leadership is about lead- you have heard me say ders will be one of the ing and my friends, I in- over and over, we have topics to be discussed tend after the widest pos- to welcome them to a when the wider Social sible consultations next pristine-looking island. Partnership meets on week to lead decisively on “We have to return Monday. this matter. For what is the ‘wow’ factor to our This was revealed at stake is not just lives beaches. We have to also during an address to and livelihoods, but in- make sure that driving the nation last night deed also the Barbadian around Barbados will by Prime Minister Mia way that reflects consul- cause people to say ‘what Amor Mottley as she tation. a beautiful countryside’, announced a number of “That is how we have rather than wondering planned actions to be done it from day one. That what all that garbage is taken by Government in is how we will do it, but doing thrown all about or the near future, while I assure you that after being littered by people.” commending Barbadians consultation, the The Prime Minister for largely following the Government reserves the said discussions have COVID-19 directives. right to decide and to act.” already started on what According to Prime Additionally, Prime will be the steps forward Minister Mottley, “The Minister Mottley said for the country. “We reality is much is hap- next week, initiatives to started already and we pening around us, but spruce up Barbados will shall continue meeting we know oh so well in also be announced. “We over the next few days Barbados that both sce- started some and some but today (yesterday), Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley addressing the nation last night. narios are plagued with came to an end and we I came straight from danger and a measure of restarted them. If we Cabinet and go back mendations from the next few weeks because National Cultural risk. In many respects, we want to welcome people there tomorrow (today) Social Partnership and we have a number of Foundation and captures die if we don’t and we also back here, whether it is because we have taken from the Jobs and key measures to put in the essence of Barbadians die if we do. But leader- family or friend or busi- the advice and the recom- Investment Advisory place including the BOSS and can be shared with Council and we are pool- (Barbados Optional anyone in the world and ing these together to Savings Scheme) pro- uplift their spirits, fol- begin to get an idea of the gramme, including lowing the devastation priorities for the trans- amendments to the wrought by COVID-19. ‘Do not drop your guard’ formation that is critical Severance Payments Act, The song featured a num- FURTHER EASE from going to guide our behav- those businesses yet to be for us to be able to come and other regulations ber of the island’s artistes Page 1 iour, and therefore if peo- consulted or in doubt on out of this pandemic, that we need to put in including Stedson “Red ple are going to allow us to what protocols had to be stronger and fitter as I place.” Plastic Bag” Wiltshire, Health Ministry; a special continue to function as followed, to contact rele- have told you from day During her address, Sister Marshall, Trinity unit to be set up to facili- close to normal, then we vant authorities or her of- one.” Prime Minister Mottley Clarke, Mikey, Bobo, tate requests for bigger need everyone to be each fice pmbarbados@barba- It was also stated that also debuted the song, Alison Hinds, Paula events; and the reopening other’s first own guard and dos.gov.bb to gain informa- next week will be a busy “This is Who We Are”, Hinds, Blood, Gabby and of gyms, which must have as a reminder to their tion. week for Parliament. which she explained was Tamara Marshall, to the capacity to facilitate brothers and sisters that “And in fact, probably the commissioned by the name a few. (JH) social distancing. we are not out of danger, Several restrictions re- but we have to be able to main in place however, in- allow people to live and in cluding those on visits at so doing there are strict hospitals, senior citizens’ protocols that we would homes and prisons. like each other to share, In addition, curfew because we are going to times have changed on literally not only have weekends – now being in to take care of ourselves, place from 10 p.m. to but those in our immedi- 5 a.m. from Fridays to ate circle,” she stated. Sundays and discontinued Speaking specifically during the week. on day-care centres, PM “Common sense must Mottley said the week’s prevail and do not drop delay in reopening was to your guard,” asserted PM allow child care profession- Mottley, who reminded als to be made aware of the citizens to avoid hand- health protocols and to “do shaking and hugging. any fine-tuning and train- “I want to remind ing as is required and people that just as a car would be signed off by has an accelerator and the EOC”. a brake, these measures The PM said over the have accelerators and next few days, health offi- brakes. So we are opening cials would give draft di- back up, but we are con- rectives to ensure greater scious that it is the man- clarity for those seeking agement of risk that is to plan events and urged A number of Barbadian artistes are featured in the song ‘This is Who We Are’, which debuted last night. 4• Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

B’dians to march tomorrow in solidarity with Black Lives Permission granted Matter global movement BARBADIANS are being urged to groups that could gather during this our brothers and sisters in United come out in their numbers, wear time. States of America.” black and have their placards However by yesterday afternoon, While there is no limit to the number ready on Saturday as they take to Denny was a happy man. Speaking of persons gathering on Saturday, the City streets to show solidarity to the media on the grounds of the social distancing must be adhered to with the Black Lives Matter move- Supreme Court of Barbados, Denny during the march. Denny noted that ment currently making waves said: “The Government of Barbados has the change of location took social dis- across the globe. granted us permission and we are very tancing precautions into consideration. Permission was granted yesterday by happy... We are very thankful that the “We also want to encourage Attorney General Dale Marshall for the Attorney General has stepped in and Barbadians to wear the black on Friday march, which will be held on Saturday granted us that permission, so that we and to express their solidarity at their morning at 11 a.m., beginning at can participate in a peaceful march. workplace, at the supermarket in soli- Kensington Oval and ending in “Our Attorney-at-Law Lalu darity with our brothers and sisters in Independence Square. Hanuman was organising and prepar- the United States of America.” The peaceful protest is being hosted ing for us to take this matter to the Encouraging persons of all races to by the Caribbean Movement for Peace courts of Barbados. Because we in the come out tomorrow, Denny said, “This and Integration (CMPI), which up to Caribbean Movement for Peace and is a battle for Barbadian people because yesterday was prepared to take the Integration feel very strongly about the this creates a condition for Barbadian matter to the courts of Barbados after whole question as it relates to people people to have the right to protest. We not receiving a favourable response [in] Barbados being able to participate are fighting racism, whether it is in the from the Commissioner of Police in a peaceful demonstration, so that United States of America, Barbados or Tyrone Griffith nor the Attorney they can express their true feelings of any other country. General Secretary of the Caribbean General Dale Marshall to host another love for the African family. “We are demonstrating against Movement for Peace and Integration protest. Just last week, a march was “Therefore, we were prepared to take police brutality and these are things (CMPI), David Denny. held outside of the United States em- the matter to court, but we don’t have that happen in every country. So we bassy, but ended prematurely by the to go there anymore and we are happy are standing in solidarity not only with Square. Royal Barbados Police Force because that the Government of Barbados has our brothers and sisters in the United Protests across the globe were numbers exceeded the limit of ten per- come around and we will use this op- States of America, we are standing sparked by the death of George Floyd in sons for which permission was granted. portunity to say thanks to the Royal in solidarity with our brothers and Minneapolis, Minnesota, who died after In fact, General Secretary of the Barbados Police Force for their assis- sisters here in Barbados, in the a police officer knelt on his neck while CMPI David Denny issued a statement tance and thanks for the Government Caribbean, in Africa and Asia and he was detained for 8 minutes and 46 yesterday morning, stating that a of Barbados and Attorney General be- Europe.” seconds. This also brought into focus protest would be held today (Friday) cause this is not only a march for the At the end of the march, there will be other cases of injustice in America in- explaining that the CMPI would Caribbean Movement, but it is a march a number of solidarity speeches, and cluding the shooting death of Ahmaud not have gone outside of the Curfew for Barbadian people to express their artistes and community groups are Arbery in Georgia and Breonna Taylor Directive as it relates to the type of true feelings, love and solidarity with expected to perform in Independence in Kentucky, to name a few. (JH) The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 5 Safe reopening of economy essential AS countries across in order to contain the the old, not exclusively, that it doesn’t take the region seek to re- infection and avoid the but the overwhelming longer than necessary,” open for business collapse of health institu- majority of those who Johansen stressed. amidst the COVID-19 tions and to reduce the have succumbed to the “For the economic dam- pandemic, they must number of people suc- disease are over 70, the age to be as limited as take all precautionary cumbing and dying from job crisis is hitting the possible and the recovery measures possible to the infection as much as young the hardest,” he as short as possible, it is ensure that they do so possible, governments continued. fundamental to reopen in a safe manner, so as around the world and in- Noting that the accom- as early as possible, but to prevent any further cluding in the Caribbean modation and food service not too early and there is setbacks to their have had to make some sector has been hit hard unfortunately no clear economies. hard choices and imple- in the Caribbean, as well answer to this. The lock- M r. Lars Johansen, ment relatively extreme as other sectors which down has been described Director a.i. of the measures; measures have a relatively high as an unprecedented ex- International Labour which basically have percentage of women, he periment and I think it Organisation’s Office for made economies grind to stated that the situation safe to say that an open- the Caribbean, noted a halt,” Johansen pointed has been made more dif- ing is also an experiment. the above as he chaired out. ficult for women, with This is something we the UN and UNDP’s “Some sectors have schools and child care have never done before. Consultation for Action been fortunate enough in facilities being closed. (So) when reopening the online forum, under the order to move their oper- “It is therefore impor- economy,we must take all topic, “Reopening the ations from office to home tant to get society back to the possible measures Economy at the End of and continue with rela- work as soon as possible, that we have to, to ensure the COVID-19 Response”. tively limited disruptions. whilst keeping in mind that the reopening is as The e-Series was just one That’s unfortunately the doing so in a way that safe as it possibly can be,” of a virtual series of con- minority. We have all seen keeps infection rates he maintained. sultations, set up to dis- the numbers related to under control, because In terms of recommen- cuss some of the critical businesses that have had we know what a new dations for reopening, challenges facing the re- to close permanently, major surge (of COVID- he says persons can visit gion in the wake of the after not being able to Mr. Lars Johansen, Director a.i. of the International 19 cases), causing the the ILO’s website to see a COVID-19 pandemic and carry the cost of this Labour Organisation’s Office for the Caribbean. need for another round range of practical guides to identify innovative lockdown. The millions of lockdowns will mean. that speak to the safe solutions for catalysing of people that have been the economy and people’s old disproportionately, It’s already clear that a return to work, and the recovery and building furloughed or laid off and livelihoods. We are also but in different ways. recovery will take time. It occupational safety and long-term resilience. the effect this has had seeing a crisis that affects Whilst the medical emer- is therefore important to health aspects of the re- “As you all know, and continues to have on both the young and the gency has mainly affected do the utmost to ensure opening. (RSM) 6 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Hyacinth Stoute wins Kregg Nurse Memorial Scholarship DESPITE physical chal- abrupt halt. University of the West Caribbean Catalyst Inc. primary challenge is ties. Stoute’s words of en- lenges, Hyacinth Stoute Stoute’s plight started Indies (UWI) as a first- remained committed to recording and obtaining couragement to persons has remained optimistic when she experienced year student pursuing continuing the Kregg notes for classes. She with a similar disability and determined to pur- challenges with partially a Bachelor’s Degree in Nurse Scholarship. does not have a laptop or is to be confident, “do not sue her career goals. losing her eyesight. Her Management. There were four applica- the required devices to be afraid to try or do In 2010, at the age of condition was diagnosed Today, she has another tions and, after inter- efficiently record notes things on your own”. 41, she operated a thriv- as having detached reti- achievement under her viewing the candidates during classes. Without She will receive a ing catering business. nas. Stoute underwent belt, having been an- and evaluating their the required technology plaque and the two final- She was passionate surgery,which the doctor nounced the winner of physical and other chal- of her own, Stoute is ists will each receive a about her chosen career believed would have al- the 16th Caribbean lenges and their aca- utilising the visual aid monetary contribution and was eager to pursue lowed her to regain com- Catalyst – Kregg Nurse demic journeys, judges equipment in the towards their studies. an academic qualification plete vision, but the pro- Memorial Scholarship, were faced with the dif- Kerryann Ifill Unit at Caribbean Catalyst in management, which cedure was unsuccessful. which is awarded to an ficult task of selecting a UWI, photocopying chap- Inc. extends heartiest would have enhanced her However, in 2015, she individual with a disabil- winner from two enthusi- ters and in some cases, congratulations to Stoute overall skills and ability completed three CXC’s ity who has successfully astic and remarkable entire books. and Ward and encourage to manage her business. and added a fourth sub- completed at least one finalists – Caitlin Ward Stoute also mentioned them to continue to fulfil Unfortunately, her plans ject in 2019 and is cur- year of post-secondary and Hyacinth Stoute. that she incurs trans- their academic aspira- were brought to an rently enrolled at The school education, in any Stoute highlighted portation costs to travel tions. field, and is continuing some of the challenges from UWI to her home, Kregg’s mother, their formal education she faces as a result of due to the scheduled Mrs. Linnell Nurse and at a recognised tertiary her disability. She has evening classes. Kerryann Ifill continue to educational institution. difficulty travelling alone Stoute presented her- be active supporters of The award always and needs someone to ac- self as an optimistic and the efforts of Caribbean coincides with Kregg’s company her when visit- resilient individual; not Catalyst Inc. as the team birthday, which is June ing unfamiliar places. dwelling on her chal- works to assist the differ- 13. This year, despite the With regards to manag- lenges but viewing them ently-abled community impact of COVID-19, ing classes at UWI, her as learning opportuni- in progressive ways. APTO chairman not happy THE move to use lowed to return to full Program (TAP),” he added. Wharton, who outlined coaches and taxis in capacity for sitting only, Acting Director of the the positive impact the the public transporta- with all passengers being Transport Authority, additional vehicles were tion system to provide sanitized by conductors Maria Boyce, however having in ensuring service due to COVID- upon entry and required defended the 60 per cent Barbadians get to their 19 restrictions is still to wear masks throughout capacity rule during this destination during these not sitting well with the entirety of the trip. COVID-19 period. times. owners of Public Speaking on the People’s “This is in place until “The Government is Service Vehicles Business program earlier the end of the state of systematically reopening (PSVs). this week, he said “it is not emergency and it is not en- businesses and some are Chairman of the fair and it is not right” for visaged that it will go on still working with short Association of Public BTs and ZMs to now com- forever, but we must also staff while others are Transport Owners pete with PSVs on their remember that the TAP ramping up business as (APTO), Kenneth Best, routes. programme has allowed they go along, so as an or- said with PSVs now hav- “No PSV can just move an increase in the number ganisation, we have to be ing to operate at 60 per from being a PSV to being of available vehicles to able to move those people. cent capacity due to a BT or a ZM and I believe support the Transport So moving BTs and ZMs Government-imposed re- that we have enough PSVs Board,” she said. allows us to send a feeder strictions, many were to service the island in Similar sentiments vehicle before the regular struggling. conjunction with the were made by the routes to ensure that we He therefore suggested Transport Board and the Transport Board’s Chief do not leave anyone in the instead that PSVs be al- Transport Augmentation Executive Officer, Fabian terminal,” he said. ‘OSH a fundamental investment’ OCCUPATIONAL safety factories and all kinds of date preventative and con- and organizations, among and health (OSH) must workplaces in Latin trol measures. others. have the highest priority. America and the “Occupational safety The objectives of the tool That’s according to Caribbean that are faced and health must be con- are to support the adop- Regional Director of the with the progressive lift- sidered as a fundamental tion of preventive meas- International Labour ing of measures. investment to protect ures in the workplace Organization (ILO) for The ten steps are: Set up workers and their families against the risk of conta- Latin America and the a team to plan and organ- and to ensure the continu- gion of COVID-19 and Caribbean, Vinícius ize return to work; Decide ity of companies,” Pinheiro other risks associated with Pinheiro, while insisting, who returns to work and explained. the pandemic, encourage “We must get used to the how; Adopt engineering “It is one of the keys to social dialogue on the sub- idea that the workplace and organizational meas- reactivating production ject, and promote good will no longer be the same ures; Adopt regular clean- with decent work and for practices to develop occu- and that it will be in this ing and disinfection of reconciling the objectives pational health and safety scenario where a decisive premises; Promote per- of containing the pan- protocols. battle against the pan- sonal hygiene measures; demic and economic recov- “Avoiding new out- demic will be waged.” Provide personal protec- ery.” breaks of the contagion His comments came as tive equipment (PPE) and The guide is aimed at that endanger lives and af- the ILO released a new inform on its correct use; employers and their rep- fect reactivation strategies tool on safety and health Health surveillance of resentatives, workers and is part of the guide’s pre- for decision-makers in the workers; Consider psy- their representatives,joint vention and control objec- world of work to confront chosocial and other risks; safety and health commit- tive. It also aims to design COVID-19. It contains ten Review and update emer- tees, occupational safety safety and health strate- steps for the design of re- gency and evacuation and health professionals gies with a human-centred turn strategies for offices, plans; and Review and up- and related institutions approach.”

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 7 A historical record of China fighting COVID-19 WHILE the dreadful pandemic of irrespective of their gender, age, support from the solidarity, take immediate action COVID-19 is still spreading and and occupation, have plunged international community. As and adopt decisive measures to causing devastation all over the themselves into the battle against the white paper states, Chinese is minimize both the imminent and world, China, as the one of the the epidemic. Resilient and such a nation who never forgets potential threats of the virus, so as countries hit by the first wave in united, they represent a the help and generosity it receives to build a global community of this pandemic, has to some extent formidable force in the battle. and always reciprocates with the health for all, with no one left effectively contained the During the past months in China, same goodwill. At the time when behind. China stands ready for transmission of the virus, thanks medical workers rose to the the situation in China was at its this. to the arduous work of Chinese challenge. Community workers, most difficult, the international As the white paper concludes, people and kind supports from all police, customs officers, couriers, community, including Barbados, our human race has never been over the world. sanitation workers, transport provided valuable support and driven down by adversity. The This white paper, titled employees, media workers, assistance to our country and our pandemic may have a significant “Fighting COVID-19: China in volunteers, and many people from people. Chinese people will always impact on the development of Action”, is recently published by other sectors of society worked cherish this. When the pandemic humanity,but the people’s longing China’s State Council day and night to protect lives and is spreading globally,the Chinese for a happy life will remain Information Office, and it records public safety, which ensures our people are now doing all we can to unchanged. Peace, development, the difficult journey of China’s win against COVID-19 in China support the international and win-win cooperation will fighting COVID-19 during the and now we have also seen on this community in the fight against prevail. As long as the world’s past months, provides China’s island. the coronavirus and bring our peoples can unite in pursuit of a effective manners and experience Second, China has released social lives back to normal. common goal, we will be able to in epidemic prevention, control information in an open and Fourth, cooperation and overcome all our current and treatment, and underscores transparent manner. The H.E. Yan Xiusheng, Ambassador solidarity is the most difficulties and challenges, and the significance of cooperation white paper records the history of of the People’s Republic of powerful weapon. The virus build a better world for all. and solidarity to win the battle while making an all-out effort to China to Barbados does not respect borders. Nor is If you are interested in this against COVID-19 globally.After contain the virus, China having race or nationality relevant in the white paper, you can find a copy reading this white paper, I would also provided information on to the international community, face of the disease. With the on the Embassy’s website or on like to share my four observations COVID-19, including the whole which helps global pandemic current widespread of the virus, our Facebook page. with you: coronavirus genome sequence response and prevention as well all countries should bear the First, people are the sources and the specific primers and as provides the basis of vaccine wellbeing of all humanity and the H.E. Yan Xiusheng of strength to win the battle. probes for detecting the research and development interest of future generations in Ambassador of the People’s The white paper states that, the coronavirus, in a thoroughly open, internationally. mind, try their best to advance Republic of China to 1.4 billion Chinese people, transparent and professional way Third, China appreciates international cooperation and Barbados President Xi stresses developing water-conserving agriculture YINCHUAN – Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, recently stressed the need to actively develop water-conserving agriculture and refrain from water-wasting irrigation. Xi made the remarks when visiting a rural ecotourism park in Helan County, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, to learn about the integrated development of modern agriculture and leisure tourism there. The planting structure should be adjusted to better protect the water resources here, Xi said, noting that the people in Ningxia have long been blessed by the Yellow River. Production should be based on the situation of local water resources and efforts be made to Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of focus on the quality rather than the Central Military Commission, visits a rural ecotourism park to learn about the development of local signature agriculture quantity of products and increase in Helan County, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, June 9, 2020. Xi on Tuesday inspected the city of their added value, Xi added. Yinchuan during his trip to Ningxia. Argentina jockeying to get its barley into Chinese beer BUENOS AIRES – Argentina is camel food. Cia is based in the Atlantic port tensions between the two exporter of malt barley to the jockeying to get more of its malt Argentina is expected to export city of Necochea and specializes countries. South American market but barley into Chinese beer, now 120,000 tonnes of barley to China in malt barley. Most of Australian barley Australia is very competitive for that Asia’s mega-economy is this year, said Agustin Baque, Argentina’s CIARA-CEC exports went to China before the the next season. So if we don’t locked in a trade fight with its foreign trade chief and farm export chamber said it was trade spat.Australia is expecting negotiate with Chinese buyers top barley supplier Australia, consultant for export firm Alea y working with the trading a 2020/21 barley crop of 9.5 we could have a supply and according to industry sources in Cia S.A. companies it represents and the million tonnes and consumes demand problem,” Baque said. the South American grains “For the next season, if the government “to satisfy current about 3.5 million tonnes “For us the Chinese market is powerhouse. Chinese maintain import taxes and future Chinese demand for domestically,leaving plenty to be new. But our main client is China is the top global importer on Australian barley, I think it high quality barley.” exported. Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABI.BR), of malt barley for making pale could double to 240,000 tonnes, Earlier this year, citing Baque is concerned Australia which is the biggest player in the lagers and other beers, while maybe more if barley farms in allegations of dumping, China might look to sell some of that to Chinese beer market. We are Saudi Arabia is the top importer France and Canada have bad slapped an 80% tariff on barley other South American countries. talking with them about of feed barley, which it uses as crop weather,”Baque said.Alea y from Australia, amid increasing “Argentina is the biggest exporting to China.”

8 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate ‘For the cause that lacks assistance, ‘Gainst the wrongs that need resistance, For the future in the distance, And the good that I can do’ Editorial Top US general says joining Illegal dumping Trump church walk was ‘mistake’ WASHINGTON - The top constitution, which pro- demning “acts of domestic including about any split US military officer on tects the right to peaceful terror” and saying the with the Republican pres- still a matter Thursday said he should protest. United States was in the ident. not have joined President Milley and Defense grips of professional anar- Esper told a Pentagon Donald Trump as he Secretary Mark Esper had chists, violent mobs, arson- news conference more walked from the White joined Trump to pay a sur- ists, looters, criminals and than a week ago that he of concern House to a nearby church prise visit to the historic others. regretted using the word MINISTER of the Environment and National for a photo opportunity Saint John’s Church, dur- He promised the mobi- “battlespace” to describe Beautification, Trevor Prescod, has placed on after authorities cleared ing which the president lization of thousands of protest sites around the record his contempt for the practice of illegal the way of protesters held up a Bible for photog- US troops and told US United States and said he dumping. using tear gas and rubber raphers. governors that same day was unaware that the It was back in May that he voiced his concerns bullets. Minutes before the visit, he was putting Milley “in church visit was going to about this practice, even as he stood alongside “I should not have been law enforcement used tear charge” of the protest re- be a “photo op.” an unsightly pile of rubbish dumped at there,” Joint Chiefs of Staff gas and rubber bullets to sponse. He also publicly stated President Kennedy Drive, St Michael. The Chairman General Mark disperse mostly peaceful Milley later seemed to that he did not support the waste included galvanise sheets, nails, old Milley said of his appear- protesters occupying the reinforce Trump’s com- use of the Insurrection cans, windows, trees and other items, and ance at the politically square between the White ments by appearing in Act, which would allow Minister had lamented at that time that charged event on June 1. House and the church in a downtown Washington Trump to mobilize active Sanitation workers had recently cleaned the “My presence in that demonstration against the D.C. that evening in cam- duty troops to crack down area only to find another pile of garbage. moment and in that police killing of George ouflage fatigues. on protests. Reuters has Investigations were to be conducted to bring environment created a Floyd, drawing condemna- The protests following reported that Trump came those responsible to justice and Prescod served perception of the military tion from Democrats and Floyd’s killing in Minne- closer to deploying active notice that his ministry would take steps to involved in domestic poli- some Republicans. apolis, Minnesota, have duty troops than thought arrest the problem of illegal dumping across the tics,” he said in a prere- The National Guard been largely peaceful. and yelled at Esper after island. corded video commence- supported law enforce- Floyd, who was black, died that news conference. This problem of illegal dumping has been long ment address to the ment at the site. after a white police officer In his address on with us and is still continuing. Truthfully, local National Defense Uni- “As a commissioned uni- knelt on his neck for al- Thursday, Milley stressed authorities have in the past moved to deal more versity. formed officer, it was a most nine minutes on May the need for members of forcefully with those who litter our lovely island. Milley’s remarks fol- mistake that I have 25. the military to stay out of Whilst this is commendable, those who engage in lowed a rare outpouring of learned from, and I sin- Milley has not appeared politics. acts of illegal dumping should not be seen to condemnation from re- cerely hope we all can in public to answer ques- “We who wear the cloth just get a slap on the wrist. This is really and tired US generals and learn from it,” Milley said, tions since the walk with of our nation come from truly the crux of the problem. They should be even former defense sec- but stopped short of apol- Trump. His decision to de- the people of our nation made to pay a stiff penalty, rather than simply retary Jim Mattis for tak- ogizing outright. liver his remarks in a and we must hold dear the being given the option of cleaning up an entire ing part in the event, given As authorities were prerecorded message, as principle of an apolitical illegal dump spot. that the US military is clearing the square, opposed to a news confer- military that is so deeply It appears that we have a nation of litterbugs meant to be apolitical and Trump delivered a speech ence, precluded the possi- rooted in the very essence in general and this issue needs to be dealt with. is sworn to defend the US at the White House con- bility of taking questions, of our republic,” he said. Some persons carelessly drop trash in public places in plain view of others, whilst others hide and dump a whole heap of garbage in places where they are forbidden to do so. For some it’s a one-off activity, but for most it’s an ingrained Norwegian man gets 21 years habit. It’s as if they can’t help it, unless they are policed. The mentality however is the same on both ends – blatant disregard for our beloved en- for slaying, mosque attack vironment. COPENHAGEN — A Oslo suburb of Baerum. mosque on fire. ability and willingness to Now there has been much long talk about how white nationalist Ihle-Hansen was adopted He believed that carry out,” she said during illegal dumpers are to be dealt with. Some say a Norwegian who killed his from China as a 2-year- “Europe is under attack the detailed reading of the maximum fine of $5000 should be the penalty for stepsister and then old and her mother later from people of ethnic ori- verdict online. such an act. However, how many persons have re- stormed an Oslo mosque married Manshaus’ fa- gin other than his own” Lindstroem added that ceived the highest penalty to date for dumping? and opened fire, hitting no ther. and that “the white race is Manshaus was deemed It appears that in Barbados, we talk too much one, was found guilty Then he drove to a on the brink of extinc- mentally sane at the time. and the action is not forthcoming. Once we find Thursday and sentenced nearby mosque where tion,” said Lindstroem, In a final comment the perpetrators who have engaged in illegal to 21 years in prison, the three men were prepar- adding that Manshaus after the sentencing, dumping, we should fine them and still make longest jail term under ing for Eid al-Adha cele- claimed he was acting “in Manshaus said “I don’t them clean up their act. Norwegian law. brations. Manshaus fired self-defense against the confess my guilt, so I can’t So in essence, we need to see stiffer penalties Philip Manshaus, who four shots from a rifle at enemy.” accept the judgment. That handed down to those who engage in the de- had said in court that he the mosque’s glass door In court, Manshaus con- would be contradictory.? plorable practice of illegal dumping, to regretted not having before he was overpow- fessed to the acts but He and his defense lawyer help stamp it out. Again, getting illegal caused more damage, ered by one of the men, called them “emergency Unni Fries said they dumpers to simply clean up dump sites cannot “has proven to be an ex- Muhammad Rafiq. justice.” Investigators would consider whether be all there is to address the matter.We cannot tremely dangerous per- Manshaus wore a bullet- found a photo of Adolf to appeal. allow persons to think that they can break the son,” prosecutor Johan proof vest and a helmet Hitler on his cell phone. The judge said law and if caught, that they can simply clean Oeverberg said as he de- with a video camera in The judge said the sen- Manshaus was inspired up the site in question and that’s that. We must manded the maximum the attack and was armed tence was a “preventive by shootings in March send a strong message that illegal dumping penalty. with a hunting rifle and a detention,” a special 2019 in New Zealand, will not be tolerated. After all, our health is at On Aug. 10, 2019, shotgun. prison term in Norway for where a gunman targeted risk. Manshaus, 22, killed his Judge Annika criminals considered dan- two mosques, killing 51 So the litterbugs as well as the illegal dumpers 17-year-old stepsister, Lindstroem of the Oslo gerous to society. people, and in August need to be put on notice that their bad practices Johanne Zhangjia Ihle- District Court said “The killing and the at- 2019 in El Paso, Texas, will not be tolerated and instead of just mere Hansen, by shooting her Manshaus had plans to tack show what extremely where an assailant tar- talk, the authorities need to really get serious four times with a hunting kill as many people as violent and cynical ac- geted Hispanics and left with those who continue to compromise, degrade rifle at their home in the possible and set the tions Manshaus has the at least 22 dead. and destroy our environment. This is even more critical now that we are in the midst of a Executive Editor: Allison Downes Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan COVID-19 pandemic, where our focus is on Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke health and hygiene. E-mail Address: [email protected] Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 9

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected]

Bonds, stocks, shares as wealth-creation tools A FORMER director at persons from the non-tra- with the naked eye that lable externalities. the Caribbean Develop- ditional investment class foreign direct investment The call for the trans- A time ment Bank has recently to participate in the de- accompanied by off-shore formation of a labour suggested that govern- velopment and growth of financial services and class to a wealth-creation ment allow bond-holders our local economy rather tourism – the lynch-pins class is not to be consid- to convert them to than over-emphasize for- of our economy – are ered a unreachable “pie- to think equity in enterprises eign direct investment nakedly exposed to exter- in-the-sky” joke. LIFE is amazing. Your they are frightened and so such as the air and sea that has the potential nal shocks that under- Such a transformation ideas and beliefs change, cannot find a way to deal ports. and risk of exportation score the fragility and starts with an awareness if you let them, and you with their fear. It is obvious that the and drainage of earnings brittleness of our eco- and appreciation of the can adopt different per- Many Bajans find “new” economist sees such an and profits out of the nomic foundation. role played by ownership spectives and appreciate scary. We are not unique initiative as beneficial to economy. Therefore, it is of the of bonds, stocks and that much of what you in this – many communi- Barbadians and the econ- The fickleness and utmost necessity the shares in the global econ- once believed misled you. ties around the world are omy. weakness of the powers-that-be facilitate omy. Many block this process conservative and become Such a suggestion is Barbadian economy for and develop another It is time enough for and cling to old beliefs. violent rather than re- not far removed from past decades lies in cadre of local investors more Barbadians to get Scared people do this. cluse when jolted into new what I have been repeat- the absence of sustain- that will broaden and involved in the business They cling to what they situations.The violence is ing ad nauseam for sev- able and meaningful strengthen our rickety of wealth-creation, and think is true and find obviously dangerous, but eral years. broadening and diversi- economic base from the the time is now. comfort in familiar beliefs. the restraints we impose Government should en- fication. vagaries and variables of MICHAEL The late Sir Anthony when we “flee” from issues courage and facilitate It is quite apparent unknown and uncontrol- RAY Bryan had bold ideas and generates stress that the courage to pursue brings on health problems them. I only had a brief like diabetes, hyperten- interaction with him, but sion and other so called was impressed at his con- “non communicable dis- fidence and ability to en- eases” that are prevalent courage others to pursue in Barbados. Despite the COVID-19 – Good or bad? their ideas. It was his en- name, these dis-eases are AS a little boy,my mother me for it had prepared I saw people who never yesterday. couragement that lead to communicated: Social always said to me, “There me for a life ahead that I exercised a day in their So COVID-19 did cause me writing a column in media helps us create an is good in every bad” and could not envisage. lives… some people to die a little the Advocate for several NCD epidemic when we because it was my However, it is still my I saw Bajan pro- earlier than they would years. I mourn his pass- use it to communicate mother, I would always worst experience. grammes on TV. have preferred. ing and empathise with fear. look for the good in every And so, I decided to I saw entrepreneurship Since we all have to die, the pain his family and The Old Testament bad, and I would find it. look for the good in this and creativity. the emphasis should then friends must feel at this refers to complainers and But then as an adult I bad COVID-19. NECESSITY IS be on what quality of life time. I also feel that I quarrellers as “Satans”. had the worst experience COVID-19 caused peo- TRULY THE MOTHER we want to live. should continue to ex- In Genesis, the human of my life and there was ple to die. OF INVENTION. COVID-19 showed us press new ideas, and en- race falls into a quarrel- no way during that or- That is bad! I heard, “Today is my the quality of life that we courage others to over- some, violent society on deal that I could see COVID-19 caused the day at the supermarkets, can live. It revived hu- come the fear of doing the instigation of a Satan. any possible good. As a closing of schools and you want anything?” – to manity, cleanliness, this. We see the same thing result, for the first time I offices, devastated the neighbour. order, patience, disci- Barbados is a very con- happening today in questioned my mother’s economies, stagnated I heard “Be careful, pline, etc. servative community. Barbados.You may have philosophy. travel, evoked panic and stay safe, love you.” Just think of the More than 20 years ago I noticed that one “blamer” What she didn’t tell me spread fear. That is bad. I heard Bajan music on other areas it has not ex- wrote a book I called “The or “quarreller” triggers was that sometimes it Then where is the the radio. posed so far that could Fear Factor”, drawing at- many others. A united so- can take a while for the good? I heard QUIET. enhance the quality of tention to the dominant ciety can easily be trans- “good” to manifest itself. Good eating habits, At the risk of sounding life and let us capitalise role fear plays in our lives. formed into quarrelsome Time, though never re- cleanliness, hardly any callous and insensitive, on this good by embrac- Gradually, over the inter- opposing group by Satans. turning (3 o’clock today accidents, less crime. the people whom COVID- ing them. vening years I have seen We need to understand is gone forever) yet om- I saw order, patience, 19 killed would have died Each of us can make a more people writing this about ourselves. nipresent, teaches us discipline. anyway, for we all have positive difference to on the topic.Fear makes Step one in any correc- lessons and prepares us I saw people helping to die. Plato described Barbados and by exten- people violent and recluse. tive process is to under- for the future every day. each other. Socrates’ birth by saying sion to the world, for we These two opposite reac- stand the problem. In this It my case, time took I saw civility among “Socrates came dying live in the same world as tions are called the “fight case we are the problem. about 1 1/2 years to show minibus drivers. into life.” the rest. or flight” response to fear. We communicate fear me the good in the People started growing This suggests that I want to keep the good It is something you can widely. The solution is “worst” experience of my their own food and ate from the time we are that the bad COVID-19 manage, if you are pre- simple, once you under- life. And so, that experi- their own cooking rather born we begin to die. We has taught us. pared to admit to fear, but stand the problem. ence became the best than somebody’s who are all a little more dead most scared people are too DICK thing that happened to don’t even know them. today than we were MAC FINGALL frightened to admit that STOUTE

LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF SPEAK TO US WISDOM Dorothy Day (1897–1980) Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “Remember the wonders he American journalist, social activist (1929–1968) has done, his miracles, and the and anarchist American Christian WORRY judgments he pronounced,” minister and activist – 1 Chronicles 16:12 “I have learned to live each day as it comes, and not to borrow trou- For peace of mind, ble by dreading tomorrow. It is “Darkness cannot drive out resign as general manager the dark menace of the future that darkness; only light can do of the universe. makes cowards of us.” that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

10 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Sir Anthony Bryan – An appreciation By Wayne H. Kirton, a man misunderstood by more than that, as he had But Bry was enigmatic friend his harshest critics. a street-smart business to the very end. On the He was, simply put, a sense honed from past morning of the day he LAST week, Barbados maverick in business. He failures and successes, died, he called me to lost another giant eschewed standard em- that allowed him to stay thank me for a CD of my of its mainstream ployment practices, and ahead of the curve and own musical renditions I business community, could be hard and even get things done, albeit it had recorded while in Anthony “Bry” Bryan, tight-fisted, in some in unorthodox and some- lockdown and given to my client and friend ways, with his employees times strange ways. He him. He said he liked all for the last 20 years. – it was his way or the was, one might say, un- but one song, “Going I first met Bry in 2000, highway. Yet he was also cannily canny. Home”, and since it was a when I was on a consult- incredibly generous and He was also a soft- classic guitar song, I ing assignment at the supporting of them in hearted and generous asked why.His tongue-in- Barbados Advocate other meaningful ways – man, almost to a fault, cheek response was that newspaper, whose owners he liked to be acknowl- and although he often perhaps he resembled the had asked me to manage edged as the provider, counselled me to remem- title too closely, since he the business while identi- and to feel he was helping ber that “no good deed might be being called to fying and negotiating people. Some might have goes unpunished”, he go home soon. Eerie, but with potential buyers. He been tempted to label never seemed to pay that there’s more. He sounded walked confidently into him a typical male chau- cynical admonition any in great spirits, and our my office in Fontabelle in vinist, yet he purposely particular heed, despite conversation covered his usual sartorial splen- empowered women having experienced its many other things, in- dour – he always took throughout his organiza- bitter truth on a few occa- cluding the BERT debt great pride in his profes- tion. Although he was fo- sions. I am aware of restructuring that hit sional appearance – and cused on the bottom line, many individuals and him hard, BOSS and with his trademark “How his first major act on families he helped finan- Covid-19, and we ended you?” greeting, and an- buying the Advocate was cially, or with their ca- with the George Floyd nounced that he was to close down the reers or businesses, in tragedy, and the ensuing going to buy the Investigator magazine, their time of need, over mindless looting and Advocate. We traded then the most profitable the years. He helped killing by opportunistic numbers and information department, because it young and old, across sev- looters, all of which dis- over the next few weeks, offended his sense of eral ethnicities and na- turbed him greatly. His and an offer was made morality and defiled the tionalities. very last words to me and accepted in a rela- Advocate’s reputation in Sir Anthony T. Bryan, KA, CHB, GCM, JP. I will miss his calls – in were: “Kirts, I tell you tively short space of time. the community.His early recent years we have had now – if Jesus were to Even so, I was dubious, career was steeped in pol- the cost of which he bore, that faith that God would lengthy conversations on come for me today, I as with a massive invest- itics, and he loved ana- is an example of that help and guide him, myriad topics, and more would gladly go – I had ment still required in lyzing political strategy faith. He would often say, which boosted his self- than a few laughs, for he enough of this mad printing press equip- and intrigue, yet he felt as if a matter-of-fact, al- confidence and gave him was a man that could world”. And a few hours ment, and an aggressive strongly – as many of us most taunting me to chal- a certain charisma and laugh at himself too, an later, he was gone to us and well-entrenched do – that today’s breed of lenge him, that he had an positivity. And, contrar- admirable trait. And I all. Who knows, perhaps competitor in the Nation politicians, globally,don’t inside track to the Lord. ily, his love of the science will miss his wonderful he did have an inside Newspaper, buying the put country above party As someone who has behind poker, which gave attitude to life’s trials track after all. paper at that time was and self anymore, so he spent a lifetime him what he called emo- and tribulations, and es- I do not know his fam- an incredibly bold and was disgusted by modern analysing businesses and tional intelligence – in pecially to race. He and ily well, but I know he brave move, but Bry was politics. His eyebrow- business strategy, Bry’s professional terms, we I, black and white came to regard many of a gambler at heart. He raising tales, recounted success in his various en- call it Neuro-linguistic Barbadians, shared a his employees as ex- wanted the ‘Old Lady of to me over the years, of terprises was enigmatic programming – i.e., relationship based on tended family.To his fam- Fontabelle’, and he was his early career decisions to me. He was, unques- learning to read people mutual respect, where ily, both immediate and confident that he would and political machina- tionably, the most un- by their body language, ethnicity was never a extended, I offer my deep- get the financing and be tions, always struck me orthodox businessman I tone, inflection, facial consideration, let alone est condolences. Grieve able to succeed – the rest as at odds with his obvi- have ever met, playing gestures, etc. Bry could an issue, and that’s how it for him, but then honour is now history. ously deep relationship and defying the odds at read a negotiation ploy should be, if we are all to his legacy, and wheel and His contribution to with his maker, as did his every turn, but still com- before the opponent even work together to make come again stronger. publishing and the media love of gambling (mainly ing out on top. He would had the thought. He read Barbados all that it can Bry, wherever you are in general in Barbados poker). His detractors often ask for my business people for fun and, in my be, and the world a better in the great beyond, I has been nationally might have more de- or financial advice, and I experience, was seldom place. Bry saw what he salute you and am glad recognised and honoured scribed him as ‘sacrile- would lay out the best wrong. I think his ten- wanted in life, and he to have known you and to through both his Gold gious’ than ‘religious’, for international practice so- dency to be unpredictable went out and sought it, have called you my Crown of Merit award, it was often his wont to lution – which he would and somewhat volatile in and if he failed at first, friend. Maybe you’re al- initially, and then his say outrageous things to then mostly ignore, and business meetings came he blamed no one, just ready playing poker with knighthood. Similarly,his provoke an emotional but do his own intuitive from this talent. He wheeled and came again. St. Peter, in which case many achievements have genuine response, but thing. He did like to run would assess the room Would that we could all you’ve already read his been widely chronicled, Bry had a profound faith ideas by people he and adjust his approach have that spirit, tenacity tell, but the one thing of but the Anthony Bryan I that God would guide his trusted, but, in the end, to suit, turning on the and attitude. His life has which I am confident, is came to know over these path. His commitment to he just did things his own charm or being aggres- touched and enriched that, whatever you are last twenty years was a keeping Faith FM, which way, and, more often than sive or submissive ac- many people in Barbados doing, you’ll be doing it man of many contradic- is essentially a service to not, it worked for him. cording to his read. But and beyond, and he will your way. Requiescat in tions, and probably a Christians in Barbados, His secret, I think, was his success came from be missed by many. Pace.

Partly sunny with a few brief isolated light showers.

High: 8:28 a.m. and 9:57 p.m. London: 14°C Yesterday: 0 mm Boston: 19°C Low: 2:27 a.m. For the Month: 17.3 mm Max: 31.2°C Montreal: 24°C and 2:57 p.m. For the Year: 204.2 mm Min: 26.1°C Toronto: 22°C New York: 21°C Miami: 29°C 5:32 a.m. 6:25 p.m.

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 11

Nestle explores sale of Pure Life in overhaul of water business ZURICH – Nestle is ex- rivals PepsiCo, LaCroix ploring a potential sale of and Coca-Cola in part of its North American sparkling and flavoured water business, including waters in the U.S.. the Pure Life brand, it “We are not withdraw- said on Thursday, as the ing from water in the food giant shifts focus U.S.”, Schneider said, to better performing adding that he wanted to brands. keep pushing interna- The business under re- tional brands Perrier, view also includes re- S.Pellegrino and Acqua gional spring water Panna that were “very brands like Poland Spring successful” in the country. and generated sales of 3.4 “In the right segments, billion Swiss francs ($3.61 water remains very at- billion) last year, account- tractive,” he said, pointing ing for almost half of total to growth and margin op- water revenue. portunities. Nestle Waters has Bottled water sales German airline Lufthansa has said it will cut 22 000 jobs. struggled for years, post- have come under pres- ing just 0.2% growth last sure, as environmental year, prompting an over- concerns about plastic haul of the business late waste and transportation last year. lead more people to drink German airline Lufthansa “We are withdrawing from the tap. from a bulk business to Nestle, often criticised focus on high-value by environmentalists, (water) specialities,” vowed to make its entire Nestle Chief Executive water portfolio carbon plans to cut 22 000 jobs Mark Schneider told neutral by 2025. GERMAN airline way for the preservation worth £8bn with the clude: Reuters by phone.“We can Asked about the “Black Lufthansa has said it of as many jobs as possi- German government to British Airways is pro- then grow...organically Lives Matter” protests in will cut 22,000 jobs as it ble in the Lufthansa save it from collapse. posing to make 12,000 of and through acquisitions.” the U.S., Schneider, who struggles to deal with Group,” the company said. The German govern- its 45,000 staff redun- Nestle, known for also holds a U.S. passport, the slump in air travel The airline employs ment will take a 20% dant, with more than KitKat chocolate bars and said he felt personally caused by the coron- more than 135,000 people stake in the firm, which it 1,000 pilot roles at risk Nescafe coffee, said it touched by the events and avirus pandemic. worldwide. About half of intends to sell by the end Ryanair is set to shed was expecting to conclude that the company was The carrier predicted a them are in Germany. of 2023. 3,000 jobs - 15% of its a strategic review by monitoring the situation slow recovery in demand Lufthansa labour direc- However, the deal still workforce - with boss early 2021. It has lagged with concern. and expected to have tor Michael Niggemann has to be approved by the Michael O’Leary saying about 100 fewer aircraft said: “Without a signifi- firm’s shareholders and the planned cuts are “the after the crisis. cant reduction in person- the European Commis- minimum that we need Lufthansa said half the nel costs during the cri- sion. just to survive the next 12 job cuts would be in sis, we will miss the op- The company closed its months” Germany. It hopes to portunity of a better budget airline German- EasyJet has said it agree the measures with restart from the crisis and wings in April. will cut up to 30% of its unions by 22 June. risk that the Lufthansa Other airlines are im- workforce - about 4,500 It added that it hoped to Group will emerge from plementing similar meas- jobs minimise redundancies the crisis significantly ures in anticipation of a And Virgin Atlantic, through short-time work- weakened.” long, slow return to for- which employs 10,000 ing and crisis agreements. Last month, Lufthansa mer levels of demand. Job people, has said it will cut “The aim is to pave the agreed a rescue deal cuts announced so far in- 3,000 jobs.

12 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Regular Market BARBADOS STOCK REPORT Security Volume High Low Market Advance/ Price Decline June 11, 2020

There was no activity today on the Regular Market. Deposit Receipts Security Previous Current Advance/ Close Close Decline EMERA DEPOSIT RECEIPT $20.13 $19.97 -$0.16 BARBADOSBARBADOS STSTOCKOCK EXCHANGEEXCHANGE SHARE SUMMARY INFORMATION Thursday June 11, 2020

LAST TRADE VOLUME HIGH LOW LAST CURRENT PRICE BID ASK BID ASK DATE CLOSE CLOSE CHANGE PRICE PRICE SIZE SIZE

ABV Investments Incorporated 13-Mar-20 - - - $0.15 $0.15 - $0.02 $0.30 8,080 10,500

BICO Limited 04-Jun-20 - - - $3.10 $3.10 - $3.10 - 8,760 - INDICES Banks Holdings Limited -+ 09-Dec-19 - - - $4.85 $4.85 - - - - - TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES June 11, 2020 June 10, 2020 Barbados Dairy Industries Limited -+ 04-Oct-19 - - - $3.00 $3.00 - - - - - Local 3,019.88 3,020.05 (0.17) Barbados Farms Limited 04-May-20 - - - $0.40 $0.40 - $0.30 $0.68 10,074 25,342 Cross-list 1,400.14 1,400.14 - Composite 739.66 739.70 (0.04) Cable and Wireless Barbados Limited -+ 21-Sep-17 - - - $2.29 $2.29 - - - - - MARKET CAPITALISATION (in millions) Cave Shepherd and Company Limited 25-Mar-20 - - - $4.62 $4.62 - $2.65 $4.39 1,000 5,708 TODAY'S TRADING LAST TRADING CHANGES June 11, 2020 June 10, 2020 FirstCaribbean International Bank 10-Jun-20 - - - $2.40 $2.40 - - $2.40 - 10,749 Local 6,431.73 6,432.09 (0.35) Cross-list 178.78 178.78 - Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 12-May-20 - - - $0.19 $0.19 - - $0.18 - 10,000 Composite 6,610.52 6,610.87 (0.35) - Dev Fund MUTUAL FUND June 11, 2020 Eppley Caribbean Property Fund SCC 09-Jun-20 - - - $0.57 $0.57 - $0.55 $0.57 1,055 3,000 ENDED NAME OF FUND NAV OFFER BID NAV -Value Fund CHANGE 05-Jun-20 REPUBLIC CAPITAL GROWTH FUND w 1.2728 0.0079 Goddard Enterprises Limited 04-Jun-20 - - - $3.01 $3.01 - $3.01 $3.10 1,176 54,703 05-Jun-20 REPUBLIC INCOME FUND w 1.2044 -0.0021 05-Jun-20 REPUBLIC PROPERTY FUND w 0.6904 -0.0002 Insurance Corporation of B’dos Limited 04-Jun-20 - - - $3.15 $3.15 - $3.20 - 352,240 05-Jun-20 FORTRESS CARIBBEAN GROWTH FUND w 5.7721 5.7721 5.7721 0.2501 One Caribbean Media Limited 06-Mar-20 - - - $2.70 $2.70 - $1.80 $2.60 6,264 3,000 05-Jun-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - ACC. w 2.0227 0.0181 05-Jun-20 FORTRESS HIGH INTEREST FUND - DIST. w 1.0129 0.0091 Sagicor Financial Corporation Pref 6.5% 23-Jun-16 - - - $2.26 $2.26 - - - - - 31-May-20 ROYAL FIDELITY SELECT BALANCED FUND m 5.4089 5.4089 5.3007 0.1238 31-May-20 ROYAL FIDELITY STRATEGIC GROWTH FUNDm 0.9460 0.9460 0.9271 0.0301 Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited -+ 29-Nov-19 - - - $2.80 $2.80 - - - - - 31-May-20 ROYAL FIDELITY PREMIUM INCOME FUND m 1.6644 1.6644 1.6311 0.0275 05-Jun-20 SAGICOR GLOBAL BALANCED FUND w 2.58 0.02 West India Biscuit Company Limited 08-Jun-20 - - - $31.00 $31.00 - $31.00 - 60 - 05-Jun-20 SAGICOR SELECT GROWTH FUND w 1.49 0.02 05-Jun-20 SAGICOR PREFERRED INCOME FUND w 0.97 -0.01 Emera Deposit Receipt 10-Feb-20 - - - $20.13 $19.97 -$0.16 $20.84 - 35 - * Indicates the Fund is currently ex-div NOTES: QUOTATIONS AND NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE ARE SUPPLIED BY THE TOTAL SHARES BOUGHT & SOLD - FUND MANAGEMENT. THE OFFERING PRICE INCLUDES NET ASSET VALUE PLUS ENTRY COSTS. m = monthly valuation, q = quarterly valuation, w = weekly * = Security is Trading X-Div Fixed Income *+* = Security is Suspended Last Trade Last Current Bid Ask Bid Ask ** = Rights Issued Date Close Close Price Price Size Size GOB Series B 17-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 $65.00 180,754 GOB Series D 12-Nov-19 $50.00 $50.00 GOB Series F 05-Feb-20 $89.00 $89.00 NOTICES GOB Series I 24-Mar-20 $65.00 $65.00 $75.00 103,713 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NEWS Barbados Farms Limited – Directors of Barbados Farms Limited (BFL) hereby notifies its valued Shareholders that it wishes to withdraw the previously published record date of March 26th, 2020 for the determination of shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company. Once the country returns to some degree of normalcy and BFL is in a position to have its Annual Report together with the notice of meeting printed and mailed within the statutory timeframe, it will advertise a new record date for determining Wall Street plunges to Shareholders entitled to receive notice of the 35th annual meeting of shareholders.

Sagicor Financial Company Limited – The Board of Directors, of the parent company of Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited, has fixed May 1st, 2020 as the record date for those shareholders entitled to receive notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be close with biggest one-day held on June 15th, 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this will be a virtual meeting, details of which will be included in the shareholder package. loss since mid-March BSE NOTICES NEW YORK – Wall Street according to a leading health COVID-19 PROCEDURAL UPDATE plummeted yesterday as in- expert. vestors reacted to renewed At the conclusion of its two- In light of the ongoing COVID-19 contagion affecting the island, the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) and the Barbados Central fears of a pandemic resur- day monetary policy meeting Securities Depository Inc. (BCSDI) have been instituting several procedural changes. gence and digested dour eco- on Wednesday, the US Kindly note that effective May 18th, 2020, the BSE and BCSDI re-opened and has resumed normal office hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. nomic forecasts from the US Federal Reserve released its Please also note that we have implemented digital temperature checks for all persons entering the building. These checks are being Federal Reserve. first pandemic-era economic conducted on both staff and clients alike by trained personnel. All three major US stock outlook, after which Chair While we acknowledge that every person with fever may not be COVID-19 positive and that some individuals may present without indexes were down about 5%, Jerome Powell warned of a symptoms, please note that any person with a temperature reading of 100F (37.8C) or over will be denied entry to conduct business within posting their worst day since “long road” to recovery. our offices. mid-March, when markets “The Fed keeping rates We wish to thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation, however, we must emphasize that this is a necessary step for the were sent into freefall by the steady through 2022 could protection of staff and clients alike. abrupt economic lockdowns give investors the impression put in place to contain the that the Fed may be more TRADING SUSPENSION pandemic. The Nasdaq concerned about the pace of snapped a three-day streak economic recovery than orig- The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section of record closing highs. inally anticipated,” said 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Banks Holdings Limited were suspended effective December 10th, 2019. The sell-off was broad, Joseph Sroka, chief invest- with all 11 major sectors of ment officer at NovaPoint in The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that due to non-compliance with Section 4.01.3 and subject to Section the S&P 500 falling 3% or Atlanta. 3.01.5.(1)(b) of the Rules of the Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. trading in the Common Shares of Barbados Dairy Industries Limited were more. Economic data appeared to suspended effective December 10th, 2019. Deaths of Americans from back up the Fed’s gloomy eco- The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that to facilitate the closing of the Scheme of Arrangement effected by way of COVID-19 could reach nomic projections, with job- Section 99 of the Companies Act 1981 of Bermuda involving the transfer of all the issued and outstanding shares in Sagicor Financial 200,000 in September,a grim less claims still more than Corporation Limited to Alignvest Acquisition II, it has suspended trading in the security Sagicor Financial Corporation Limited. result of the United States’ double their peak during the The Barbados Stock Exchange Inc. (BSE) wishes to advise that, as a result of the approved amalgamation of Cable and Wireless economic re-opening before Great Recession and contin- (Barbados) Limited (CWBL) and Cable & Wireless West Indies Limited (CWWI), trading in the security - Cable and Wireless (Barbados) getting growth of new cases uing claims at an astound- Limited - has been suspended with immediate effect. down to a controllable level, ingly high 20.9 million. The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 13

PM Chastanet supports Black Lives Matter protest in St Lucia PRIME MINISTER Hon While I fully appreciate the the responsibility of the Allen Chastanet has voiced concerns about security,health relevant authorities. From the his support for a Black and safety, especially while we moment the coronavirus was Lives Matter protest in remain under a State of declared a life-threatening Saint Lucia. Emergency situation, it is my pandemic, we have at all times He posted to his Facebook view that Saint Lucia must relied on and followed the page saying: show solidarity with the Black guidance of the health and “It has come to my attention Lives Matter movement. The security authorities. this morning that a permit disease that is racism, Let us all acknowledge that application made yesterday with all its ominous their advice has thus far kept (Wednesday) for a Black Lives implications, must be resisted Saint Lucia safe.” Matter protest in Saint Lucia at every opportunity,and by all Acting Police Commissioner was not approved by the of us. Milton Desir wrote to Saint relevant authorities – the I have requested that all Lucian Goodwill Ambassador Commissioner of Police in parties concerned pursue every Taj Weekes that his request for consultation with the Ministry possibility that would permit a June 12, 2020, Black Lives of Health. I have since had the Black Lives Matter activity Matter rally had been denied discussions with all sides who to go on without contravening as per the COVID-19 have clearly articulated their the established protocols. restrictions on mass Prime Minister Hon Allen Chastanet respective positions. However, the final decision is gatherings.

‘Law does not allow for Black Lives Matter protest at this time’ ST LUCIA – The Acting permission may be granted for Chief Medical Officer. Commissioner of Police issued other activities such as Once the laws can safely be a statement yesterday saying religious services, etc. on a case relaxed, the Acting that he is not able to approve of by case basis under the strict Commissioner will be in a a Black Lives Matter protest protocols of the Chief Medical position to legally approve such in Saint Lucia due to current Officer. mass crowd events. law. In consultation with the In the interim, he urges Earlier yesterday, Prime Chief Medical Officer, the Saint Lucians to feel free to Minister Hon Allen Chastanet decision to not approve the share their solidarity with the posted a response to the denial application at this time was Black Lives Matter Movement, of permission of the event by taken based on the current law via other mediums with the police Wednesday saying: “I in relation to the Emergency rest of the world, until such have requested that all parties Powers (Disasters) (COVID-19) time that we can publicly concerned pursue every (N0. 8) Order 2020 on express our views safely possibility that would permit restrictions for mass crowd through a mass crowd event.” the Black Lives Matter activity events and also factoring the The release also stated: “The to go on without contravening health risk. Acting Commissioner of Police the established protocols. The current law does not of the Royal St Lucia Police However, the final decision is allow the Commissioner of Force, Mr Milton Desir, is the responsibility of the Police to approve such an standing in solidarity with relevant authorities.” event, at this time, scheduled Saint Lucians and the rest of Today’s police release for Friday, June 12, 2020. the world, in light of the death explains: The Acting Commissioner of George Floyd and many “On Wednesday, June 10, continues to have further other lives taken as a result of 2020, an application was consultation with the Chief police brutality,discrimination received from organizers of Medical Officer on the stages in and any other forms of Black Lives Matter Saint which Saint Lucia will be violence. Lucia, with the subject “Black permitted to hold mass crowd Mr Desir encourages all Lives Matter Saint Lucia events in a safe manner, during police officers to undertake Rally” seeking permission to COVID-19 pandemic, their duties diligently within hold a rally at Constitution with the required amendments the ambit of the law, by Park, Castries, on Friday,June to the law to permit these respecting human rights and 12, 2020, commencing at 9 am events. recently communicated to the for a duration of three hours. Thus far, Saint Lucia has members of the Royal Saint The application indicated been spared by the mass Acting Commissioner of Police Milton Desir Lucia Police Force via a video that approximately 300 spread and deaths caused by address to observe Human persons were expected to be in COVID-19, compared to the also has a responsibility to residents, with the primary Rights and the Use of Force attendance. rest of the world. adhere to the laws related to guidance from the law and Policy whilst carrying out their We have realized that The Acting Commissioner safeguarding the health of always in conjunction with the duties.”

Guyana gov’t makes statement on sugar corporation’s bailout request GEORGETOWN – The circumstances, coupled with the NICIL to retrofit and revitalise and garnered deposits of $2.1 GuySuCo. GuySuCo also Ministry of Finance notes the challenges of COVID 19 and a the 3 remaining sugar estates. billion.The full sum was used to generates its own income. Guyana Sugar Corporation’s reduced national income, render During the period July 2018 to offset bond payments that Another disbursement is (GuySuCo) request to the the Treasury incapable of February 2020, $9,720,759,568 became due in May 2020. The expected in the coming days; so, Government for a bailout and providing a bailout to GuySuCo. was disbursed to GuySuCo to balance of $1.5 billion for the we urge that NICIL, GuySuCo wishes to assure that it is In this regard, we wish to fund its Capital and Operational lands will be paid over to NICIL and the syndicated lenders work actively seeking to assist remind that a $30 Billion bond Expenditure – much of which when the vesting orders are assiduously to resolve any GuySuCo to access funds that backed by National Industrial was outside the terms of the signed and gazetted. It is bottlenecks. are available to it, to mitigate and Commercial Investments bond. expected that part of this sum The Government of the its present challenges. Limited’s (NICIL) assets and Additionally, NICIL through will go towards a bond Cooperative Republic of Guyana Notwithstanding, however, guaranteed by the Government the Special Purpose Unit (SPU), repayment which is due on July remains committed to making the prevailing national of Guyana was secured through sold lands that were vested to it 4th, 2020, and the remainder to GuySuCo a viable partner. 14 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate St Vincent PM T&T Law Association says death says expects threats to judge ‘extremely disturbing’ TRINIDAD – The Law Association and the corner-stone of a democratic undermine the authority and GECOM will of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) said society based on the rule of law. Judges independence of the Judiciary.” it has noted with deep concern are entrusted with the fundamental The Law Association further reports of what it perceives to be role of the protection of rights and must, condemned such attacks on the honour results several threats against the life of a at all cost, be able to function Judiciary. High Court judge. without fear, favour, bias or It said it is confident that the In a statement yesterday, LATT prejudice.” Trinidad and Tobago Police Service of recount said the threats are “extremely “Such threats are extremely (TTPS) will continue to thoroughly ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines disturbing.” disturbing and are, in no uncertain investigate and promptly bring the Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has “Judiciary is the guardian of justice terms, an attempt to directly perpetrator(s) to justice. said that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) expects that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) will honour the results of the national vote recount from Guyana’s March 2 polls and use them to declare a winner. “I am satisfied that CARICOM will not stand by idly and watch the recount– which was properly done–for the results to be set aside,” Gonsalves said yesterday during an appearance on NBC Radio St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ ‘Your Morning Cup,’ which was also broadcast live on Facebook. “We expect the CARICOM observer mission to deliver its report and we expect that what is the recount would be honoured and the Guyana Election Commission will honour that recount and declare the winner in accordance with this recount,” he added. Gonsalves, who said CARICOM would not “tolerate anybody stealing an election,” added that anybody who wants to challenge anything afterwards can go The cap of a police officer was snatched. to court. “But you have to declare the winner in accordance with the recount,” he said. Gonsalves was part of a CARICOM Trinidad: Protester sorry for incident with cop delegation that was led here by TRINIDAD – “I am bipolar. I am sorry.” want to take footage of my body without my Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Gary CARICOM Chairperson and Barbados This was the apology offered on permission then I am going to take your hat Griffith said on Wednesday that he was Prime Minister Mia Mottley in March to Wednesday by Ian Smart for pulling a cap without your permission and that’s what I willing to give Smart an opportunity to help resolve the crisis that arose after the off a policeman’s head during the Black did. It was a tit for tat.” explain himself after being told that Smart controversy over the tabulation of the Lives Movement protest in Trinidad and Smart said he felt his actions, in turn, had told Guardian Media he was suffering Region Four vote count led to an impasse Tobago at the Queen’s Park Savannah on sparked a conversation that needed to from a mental illness and wanted to on the outcome of the polls. Monday. happen. apologise. “We were going to find him but The recount shows that the opposition Smart is the son of former attorney “That sparked a tremendous amount of we look forward to seeing him tomorrow PPP/C won the elections but the general Anthony Smart, the current social media conversation across Trinidad (today),” Griffith told Guardian Media in a incumbent APNU+AFC has claimed that chairman of state-owned bank First and the diaspora about what is the telephone interview. numerous irregularities it has uncovered Citizens, and is the managing director of definition of freedom of privacy, and who He said Smart can present himself to discredit the outcome. Smart Energy Limited and head of the can be filmed, and when and where,” he any police station to give his side of the non-profit organisation We Green Army. said. story. Monday’s mostly peaceful protest was Smart was previously involved in a one- However, Griffith said Smart’s actions marred by the incident involving Smart man protest against Rituals Coffee House could have had serious consequences. that took place after protesters confronted three years ago. “His actions were very foolish, they could a police officer who was videotaping the He said both actions stemmed from his have caused many repercussions. His demonstration, saying he could not film illness. “I want to come out of the closet to parents should have reconsidered his the proceedings without their permission. the public about my illness and explain Christian name and instead of calling him While the policeman faced off with a that race things tend to trigger my illness,” Ian they should have called him Not Very female protester, Smart grabbed the Smart said. “The events that are taking and kept the same surname,” Griffith said. officer’s cap off of his head and raised his place in Trinidad are stressing me out and Earlier in the day during the weekly middle fingers at him before running away. it starts the beginning phase of the illness.” police press briefing, Griffith also addressed The situation was eventually diffused by Also contacted yesterday, however, the issue. Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith who activist Muhammad Muwakil, who was “We are meeting with that individual, was present at the time. one of the organisers of the demonstration, we are going to have a nice conversation Guardian Media contacted Smart on condemned Smart’s actions.Muwakil said with him, it does not mean, every situation Wednesday to find out what sparked the while he became angered by the is different, it does not mean as soon as we confrontation. “That police officer was policeman’s attempt to film the protesters find this individual he will be arrested but filming us without our consent. He was against their will, he would not have we are looking forward to having a nice very intrusive, he could have come there in resorted to violence of any type. conversation with him,” he said. plain clothes with a cellphone camera and “We had no intention of approaching the “Empty vessels make the most noise. filmed and it would not have been seen as police and becoming violent. So I condemn Some of those screaming and shouting, obtrusive,” Smart said. his (Smart’s) actions outright,” Muwakil they really were only there for “But he came there in his police uniform said.“There are some people who are selfish confrontation and it will totally diminish with a big s...king camera, barged into the and take their own satisfaction over the the value of what they are there for but we crowd, into the centre really being rightful agendas of the people who have are not taking that bait,” Griffith intrusive. So I didn’t want to be filmed for gathered.The agenda was never to provoke said. whatever reason, next thing they use that the police.” He said the TTPS had granted film against me and this thing is that they Muwakil also expressed his permission for up to five people to take part are gathering intelligence.” disappointment that Monday’s in Monday’s protest but the numbers St. Vincent and the Grenadines “So we asked him to stop filming, he demonstration had become overshadowed eventually climbed significantly and the Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves didn’t want to stop filming so I said if you by the brief confrontation. situation became tense. The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 15 Leading Dominican Republic presidential candidate and wife have coronavirus SANTO DOMINGO – Just three- rapid recovery given he was not a high and-a-half weeks away from the risk patient, adding that he and Dominican Republic’s presidential his wife were self isolating at election, leading candidate Luis home. Abinader said he and his wife had According to a poll by the company tested positive for the novel Mark Penn/Stagwell published at the coronavirus. end of May, Abinader is leading on 39 The country is one of the worst- percent, two points above the affected by the coronavirus pandemic in ruling party candidate Gonzalo the Caribbean and Latin America, with Castillo. 1 out of every 500 people If neither candidate obtained an infected, absolute majority in the first round, and remains in a state of emergency. they would face a run-off on July 26. Still, presidential and legislative Abinader’s opponents were among elections are set to go ahead on July 5, those to publicly wish him a quick after being postponed from the original recovery. date of May 16 due to the outbreak. “We ask God for his quick recovery Some 7.5 million Dominicans are and good health,” President Danilo expected to cast their ballot at home Medina wrote on Twitter. “You have all and abroad. our support and solidarity.” “Be tranquil because with God’s grace The fact the Dominican Republic is we will recover quickly,” Abinader, 52, such a tourist hub was a major said on his social media accounts late on contributing factor to the spread of Wednesday. coronavirus here. In total, some The leader of the opposition social 21,000 cases have been reported among democratic Modern Revolutionary the 10.6 million inhabitants, of which Party said his doctors had forecast a Leading candidate Luis Abinader 550 have died.

Latin America hits 70,000 pandemic deaths, daily record in Mexico MEXICO CITY – Latin 15,357 deaths. America’s coronavirus crisis The World Health reached a grim new milestone Organization has determined on Wednesday with total that Latin America is the new deaths exceeding 70,000, hotspot for the pandemic, according to a Reuters count, which began around the as Mexico hit a daily record for beginning of the year in China confirmed infections. and quickly spread to Europe Brazil, with the largest and beyond. economy in the region, remains Governments across the Latin America’s most affected globe acknowledge that the country as total fatalities are real number of infected people just shy of 40,000, the world’s is significantly higher than the third highest death toll after official counts. the United States and Britain. Latin American fatalities In the region’s second biggest attributed to the highly- country Mexico, a new daily contagious Covid-19 record of 4,883 confirmed cases respiratory illness caused by was reported by the health the virus stand at 70,972, while ministry, along with 708 total infections are at 1.45 additional fatalities. million. The daily totals bring The outbreak has also spread The World Health Organization has determined that Latin America is the new hotspot for the Mexico’s overall official count rapidly in Peru, Chile and pandemic. to 129,184 infections and Columbia. Chile’s coronavirus cases climb past 154,000 in 100 days since virus landed SANTIAGO – Chile yesterday disease.” areas. capital. Vina del Mar, bringing almost exceeded 154,000 confirmed Health authorities reported In mid-April, President This week, the government half of its 18 million citizens cases of the new coronavirus 154,092 cases and 2,648 deaths Sebastian Pinera referenced a said in just three days, active under quarantine. and 2,600 deaths, one hundred so far. "new normal" and a plan to cases of coronavirus in the The Chilean Society of days after the outbreak began Chile reported its first case of return Chileans to work and region including Santiago had Intensive Medicine said in its and with the health service coronavirus on March 3, schools. increased 11%. latest report that 87 percent of straining under massive brought by citizens returning In May though, the virus With data showing the intensive care beds and 76 admissions numbers. from trips to Asia and Europe. spread from more affluent areas quarantines are not being percent of ventilators were “It has been a very hard 100 By mid-month the government to Chile’s poorer and more widely observed, the occupied across the country, days,” health minister Jaime had declared a State of crowded communities. Case government has announced with bed occupation rising to 95 Mañalich told reporters in the Catastrophe for three months, numbers surged from a handful stiffer fines for those breaking percent in Santiago and similar capital Santiago on Thursday. closed its borders, suspended each day to several thousand them. On Wednesday it figures in the northern city of “June is going to be the toughest classes and introduced rolling and a quarantine was extended the lockdowns to the Antofagasta,Valparaiso and the month in the fight against the quarantines for the worst-hit announced for the whole seaside cities of Valparaiso and southern region of Maule.

16 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Trump OKs sanctions against int’l tribunal employees WASHINGTON – In a face justice. The court has 123 announced that the U.S. would broadside against the state parties that recognize its investigate possible corruption International Criminal jurisdiction. The U.S. has never within the ICC hierarchy that he Court, President Donald been an ICC member. said raised suspicions that Trump yesterday authorized Secretary of State Mike Russia and other adversaries economic and travel Pompeo denounced the tribunal could be interfering in the sanctions against court as a “kangaroo court” that has investigatory process. workers investigating been unsuccessful and inefficient Israel’s prime minister, American troops and in its mandate to prosecute war Benjamin Netanyahu, accused intelligence officials and crimes. He said that the U.S. the court of fabricating those of allied nations, would punish the ICC employees “outlandish charges” against his including Israel, for possible for any investigation or country, and praised the U.S. for war crimes in Afghanistan prosecution of Americans in standing up for what he called and elsewhere. Afghanistan and added that they truth and justice. Trump’s executive order was could also be banned for Thursday’s announcement was his administration’s latest attack prosecuting Israelis for alleged the latest action putting the against international abuses against Palestinians. administration at odds with organizations, treaties and “It gives us no joy to punish allies in Europe and elsewhere. agreements that don’t hew to them,” Pompeo said. “But we Since taking office, Trump has U.S. policies. The order would cannot allow ICC officials and withdrawn from the Paris block the financial assets of court their families to come to the climate accord, the Iran nuclear employees and bar them and United States to shop and travel deal and two arms control their immediate relatives from and otherwise enjoy American treaties with Russia. He has entering the United States. freedoms as these same pulled the U.S. out of the U.N. While Israel welcomed the officials seek to prosecute Human Rights Council and the move, there were expressions of the defender of those very U.N. Educational, Scientific and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks as Attorney concern and condemnation from freedoms.” Cultural Organization, General William Barr listens, during a joint briefing, yester- the United Nations, the Pompeo’s comments were threatened to leave the day at the State Department in Washington, on an executive European Union and human echoed by Defense Secretary International Postal Union and order signed by President Donald Trump aimed at the rights groups. Mark Esper, Attorney General announced an end to cooperation International Criminal Court. The Hague-based court was Wiliiam Barr and national with the World Health created in 2002 to prosecute war security adviser Robert O’Brien, Organization. Administrations of both parties and officials for alleged war crimes and crimes of humanity who spoke at a State Unlike those treaties and have been concerned about the crimes and other atrocities. and genocide in places where Department announcement of agreements, though, the U.S. has potential for political Senior U.N. and EU officials perpetrators might not otherwise the new measures. Barr never been an ICC member. prosecutions of American troops spoke out against the decision. The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 17 Lebanese protesters shut down roadways with fires as currency collapses BEIRUT – Lebanese cut set fire to major roadways across roadways with burning the country in the most tyres and rubbish bins widespread unrest since a across Beirut and other coronavirus lockdown imposed cities yesterday in renewed in mid-March. protests sparked by a rapid “We can’t afford to eat or pay fall in the pound currency rent or anything like that, so we and mounting economic will stay here until the dollar hardship. rate goes down and we get all The pound slid to about 5,000 our demands,” said Manal, a to the dollar yesterday and has protester in central Beirut. lost 70% of its value since Protesters in Tripoli, October, when Lebanon Lebanon’s second-biggest city, descended into a financial crisis threw petrol bombs at a central seen as the biggest threat to bank building, setting it ablaze stability since the 1975-90 civil and prompting security forces war. to fire tear gas, according to From the northern city of witnesses. Tripoli to the southern city of Prime Minister Hassan Diab Demonstrators ride on motorbikes during a protest against fall in Lebanese pound currency Sidon, Lebanese chanted called for an emergency Cabinet and mounting economic hardship, in Beirut, Lebanon yesterday. against the political elite and meeting to be held on Friday to discuss the monetary situation, a statement from his office said. The crisis, rooted in decades of corruption and waste, has brought soaring food prices and Kenya arrests three policemen for unemployment and capital controls that have severed Lebanese from their hard currency savings. dragging woman behind motorbike The unrest comes as Beirut NAIROBI – Kenyan detectives terday, after footage of the inci- a woman being whipped & year-old Mercy Cherono emerged holds talks with the have arrested three police officers dent went viral online. dragged on a motorbike in after several days of small International Monetary Fund for allegedly whipping a woman “Three @PoliceKE officers were Kuresoi South Sub-County,” the protests in the Kenyan capital for a reform programme it hopes and dragging her along behind a yesterday arrested by police directorate tweeted yester- over extrajudicial police killings in will secure billions of dollars in motorbike, the Directorate of @DCI_Kenya Detectives follow- day. Kenya and against U.S. police for financing and put its economy Criminal Investigations said yes- ing circulation of a video depicting The video of police beating 21- the death of George Floyd. back on track.

1 dead in knife attack at Slovak school; attacker also dead Death toll in BRATISLAVA, Slovakia – A man with a knife attacked a school in migrant ship Slovakia yesterday, killing one person and wounding at least disaster off five before he was killed by police, authorities said. Tunisia rises to 46 The attack took place at the TUNIS – The death toll from a United School in the town of ship packed with African Vrutky in northwestern Slovakia migrants that sank off the yesterday morning. The estab- Tunisian coast this week has lishment operates for children risen to 46 after Tunisia from elementary age up to high recovered more bodies yesterday, school. The dead victim was the a civil protection official told deputy director of the high Reuters. school, authorities said. On Tuesday 20 bodies were The attacker was identified as found off Tunisia’s a 22-year-old man from the Mediterranean coast near Sfax nearby town of Martin, a former on Tuesday. A total of 53 people student at the school, police said. had set out on the boat at the The Slovak rescue service said weekend aiming to reach Italy. three adults and two students Last year, 86 African migrants were treated in a hospital in drowned after their boat capsized Martin but didn’t immediately having set off for Europe from reveal more details. Libya, in one of the worst such Slovak President Zuzana accidents in Tunisia. Caputova said she felt great sor- “The number of bodies row and offered her condolences recovered has risen to 46. The to the relatives of the victims and coast guard is continuing support for those who were searches to find more bodies wounded, teachers and police. within this ship,” said Mourad “Unfortunately,there are crazy Maechri, the civil protection people living among us and we’re official. not able to prevent such a situa- Among the dead were at least tion,” Prime Minister Igor The attack took place at the United School in the town of Vrutky in northwestern Slovakia yester- 23 women and two children, he Matovic said. day morning. said. 18 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate British health Russia rolls out first approved COVID minister urges drug as infections pass 500,000 protesters not MOSCOW – Russia runs the trials. to treat around 60,000 people a that has been the focus of yesterday rolled out a drug The health ministry gave its month. debate. to attend approved to treat patients approval for the drug’s use Dmitriev on Thursday said The Moscow health suffering from the novel under a special accelerated more than 10 countries had department on Wednesday rallies coronavirus, its state process while clinical trials, held made requests for Avifavir raised its death toll for the LONDON – British health financial backer said, as the over a shorter period and with supplies. month of May,citing changes in minister Matt Hancock said number of infections there fewer people than many other Negotiations were underway the way it determines the cause yesterday people should not surpassed half a million. countries, were still underway. to supply the drug to almost all of death for patients suffering attend large demonstrations for The first deliveries of the new There is currently no vaccine of Russia’s regions, with seven of from other health problems. public health reasons after antiviral drug, registered under for COVID-19, the disease its more than 80 regions Kremlin spokesman Dmitry protests in support of the Black the name Avifavir,were made to caused by the new coronavirus, receiving Thursday’s initial Peskov on Thursday denied Lives Matter movement some hospitals and clinics and human trials of several deliveries, Dmitriev added. there was anything untoward attracted tens of thousands over across the country, Russia’s existing antiviral drugs have With 502,436 cases, Russia with Russia’s official the last week. RDIF sovereign wealth fund yet to show efficacy. has the third highest number coronavirus death data after the “I understand that people said in a press release. RDIF RDIF chief Kirill Dmitriev of infections in the world after World Health Organisation said want to show their passion for a has a 50% share in a joint last week told Reuters the plan Brazil and the United States, this week that Russia’s low cause that they care deeply venture with the drug’s was for ChemRar to but has a relatively low official death rate was “difficult to about but this is a virus that manufacturer ChemRar that manufacture enough of the drug death toll of 6,532 – something understand”. thrives on social contact, regardless of what your cause may be,” he said at a daily news conference. Norway allows airlines to fly full planes again OSLO – Norway will no longer require airlines to leave middle seats on planes empty, a measure previously introduced to reduce the risk of contamination with the novel coronavirus, the country’s transport minister said yesterday. The Nordic country, which advised its citizens in March not to travel abroad, is to open its borders for tourists coming from Denmark, and plans to A grave digger wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) walks after burying a person, who presumably died of the update travel advice for other coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the special purpose section of a graveyard on the outskirts of Saint Petersburg. countries by June 15. Syria’s Assad fires his PM amid worsening economic crisis DAMASCUS, Syria – Syrian decade. which traded at 47 pounds to actions to prop up the currency. President Bashar Assad There was no explanation for the dollar before the 2011 Fouad Ali, head of banking yesterday fired his prime the sacking of Khamis, but the uprising, plunged to over 3,000 operations at the Central Bank, minister, a month ahead of move appeared aimed at for a dollar this week. Prices of told the local Sham FM radio elections and as the economic deflecting public anger, which basic goods have skyrocketed that the pound has been crisis worsens and public anger has regularly targeted the prime while some staples have impacted by the economic crisis rises in the territory under his minister but rarely the disappeared from the market as in neighboring Lebanon, the control. president himself. In the merchants and the public entry point for foreign currency Assad also appointed the month’s time that he has in struggled to keep up with the into Syria, as well as the looming current minister of water office, it remains unclear what rising cost of living. U.S. sanctions. resources to replace Imad the interim prime minister can The latest hardships have also Ali told the radio late Khamis, who had been the do to try to salvage the sparked rare protests in areas Wednesday that the Central premier since 2016. The Syrian staggering economic downturn. controlled by the Assad Bank “forcefully interfered” to president asked Hussein Arnous The economic meltdown government. Hundreds of stop the depreciation of the to replace Khamis as interim comes ahead of looming new protesters in the southern currency, calling it part of an premier until parliament U.S. sanctions against any entity Sweida province have taken to “economic war” against Syria. elections are held in July and a or country that does business the streets in the last four days, He said the aim is to restore the new government comes in. with the Syrian government. decrying the rising cost of living exchange rate to an “acceptable” The surprise decision comes The new sanctions are due to and chanting against Assad, in rate. amid a deepening economic take effect in the second half of scenes reminiscent of the early “We take publicized and not crisis that Assad’s government is June but they have shaken the days of anti-government so publicized measures that aim grappling with while public already teetering economy. Syrian President Bashar Assad protests that erupted in 2011. to impact the supply of foreign anger has spilled over into the Known as the U.S. Caesar Syria The currency has regained currency,” he said, without streets.Such protest scenes have Civilian Protection Act, the below the poverty line. some of its strength over the last elaborating. “What matters are not been seen in government- sanctions are expected to worsen The national currency, the 24 hours as Syrian Central the results, which everyone held areas since the early days of the already dire economic Syrian pound, has tumbled in Bank officials said they have noticed. God willing, there will the civil war that has ravaged situation in Syria, where more recent weeks, reaching a record taken measures against be more improvement and I the country over the past than 80% of the people live low to the dollar. The pound, currency manipulation and promise the public will see it.” The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 19

UK council stops plan to remove statue of scout founder Baden-Powell POOLE, England – A Britain about monuments with Poole, and that some British statue of to those involved in the people feel that we would Robert Baden-Powell, country’s imperialist past. be giving in to the founder of the A number of sculptures protesters by temporarily worldwide scouting have been taken down removing the statue,” said movement, will be while others, such as a Mark Howell, the council’s given 24-hour security statue to Britain’s World deputy leader. until it is removed or War Two leader Winston “Although we cannot until the threat Churchill, opposite say when any temporary subsides after it parliament, have been removal may take place, became a target of defaced. we will be providing 24- anti-racism protests. The council had said hour security until it is Poole council had said it there were “some aspects either removed or the would temporarily remove of Robert Baden-Powell’s threat diminishes.” the statue of Baden- life that are considered Baden-Powell is widely Powell, a British Boer War less worthy of hailed for setting up the hero, from its location on commemoration”. Police scout movement which the quay of the seaside said the statue could be a boasts 54 million town in southern England target. members worldwide and yesterday pending Erected just over a in a 2007 poll, he was Local resident Len Banister shows his support for a statue of Robert Baden- discussions about its decade ago, it depicts a voted the 13th most Powell future. seated Baden-Powell influential person in the However the removal looking across the harbour United Kingdom in the the planned removal, and forward to discussing the statue of 17th Century has been briefly delayed. to Brownsea Island, where 20th century. But critics the area’s member of matter with the council “to slave trader Edward Demonstrations he started the scout say he held racist views parliament, Conor Burns, make an informed Colston and threw it into sweeping across the movement in 1907. and was a supporter of described it as “a huge decision on what happens the harbour. It was United States and Europe “We know that local Adolf Hitler and fascism. error of judgement”. next”. retrieved on Thursday and following the death of people feel proud of Lord Some locals along with A spokesman for the On Sunday, protesters the local council said it George Floyd have Baden-Powell’s and the former and current scouts Scouts said the in Bristol, western would be displayed in a reignited a debate in Scout movement’s links had reacted with anger at organisation was looking England, pulled down a museum. Coronavirus survivor in US receives double lung transplant SURGEONS in Chicago lung transplants. lungs full of holes and “We are anticipating She was otherwise transplants last year. have given a new set of The Chicago patient is almost fused to the chest that she will have a full pretty healthy but her They are typically hard to lungs to a young woman in her 20s and was on a wall, said Dr. Ankit recovery,” said Dr. Rade condition rapidly find and patients often with severe lung damage ventilator and heart-lung Bharat, who performed Tomic, medical director of deteriorated after she was wait weeks on the from the coronavirus. machine for almost two the operation. the hospital’s lung hospitalized in late April. transplant list. Northwestern Medicine months before her She remains on a transplant program. Doctors waited six weeks The Chicago patient yesterday announced the operation at ventilator while her body The patient was not for her body to clear the was in bad shape, with procedure, which took Northwestern Memorial heals but is well enough to identified but Bharat said virus before considering a signs that her heart, place last Friday. Only a Hospital. visit with family via she had recently moved to transplant. kidneys and liver were few other COVID-19 The 10-hour procedure phone video and doctors Chicago from North Lungs accounted for beginning to fail, so she survivors, in China and was challenging because say her chances for a Carolina to be with her just 7% of the nearly quickly moved up in line, Europe, have received the virus had left her normal life are good. boyfriend. 40,000 U.S. organ Bharat said.

New York’s Cuomo defends Columbus statues for symbolism to Italian Americans NEW YORK – New York demonstrations, Cuomo police officer’s May 25 that bears his name. should keep statues was asked by a reporter killing of George Floyd in The statues were honoring Christopher whether it was time for Minneapolis has renewed erected during a long Columbus even though monuments in the state a campaign to remove period in which Columbus the brutalization of the celebrating the Italian monuments to the was hailed in the United West Indies inhabitants explorer to go. Confederacy and other States for opening the he encountered on his Absolutely not, said symbols of the U.S. New World to European voyages to the New World Cuomo, an Italian- South’s legacy of slavery. settlement. is inexcusable, Governor American. Statues of Columbus have On Wednesday, Andrew Cuomo said “I understand the also come under attack in protesters pulled down a yesterday. feelings about several cities. statue of Columbus in Cuomo said Columbus Christopher Columbus Cuomo, the grandson of Saint Paul, Minnesota, was an important figure and some of his acts, Italian immigrants and a and vandalized one in for Italian Americans, which nobody would regular at New York City’s Miami, while on Tuesday, symbolizing their support,” Cuomo said at a Columbus Day parade, a monument to Columbus contribution to New York, briefing. “But the statue has been a consistent in Richmond, Virginia, and for that reason, he has come to represent and supporter of the statues was thrown into a opposes removal of the signify appreciation for against sporadic calls for lake. statues. the Italian-American their removal. In Miami, a statue of With protesters contribution to New New York’s most well- Columbus was vandalized attacking statues of York.” known statue of on Wednesday evening, Columbus in recent days The anti-racist fervor Columbus soars above a along with that of fellow during anti-racist that has followed a white Manhattan traffic circle explorer Ponce de Leon. Governor Andrew Cuomo 20 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Where do we go from here? Oprah hosts in-depth, two-night conversation with black thought leaders, activists and artists prah Winfrey hosted a two-night Academy award-nominated filmmaker conversation with black thought Ava DuVernay – (“When They See Us,” Oleaders and artists for the “13th”, “Queen Sugar”), professor and “OWN Spotlight: Where do we go from author – Jennifer Eberhardt – (author here?” special, Simulcast on June 9 of “Biased”); – journalist and Pulitzer and 10 at 9 pm across various chan- prize-winning founder of the – nels, such as OWN, HGTV, Food “1619 Project” – Nikole Hannah-Jones; Network, Travel Channel, Cooking historian and author – Ibram Kendi – Channel, and DIY Network. (“How to be an Anti-Racist”), – The special was announced in award-winning actor David Oyelowo – a statement from OWN (Oprah (“Selma”), Color of Change founder Winfrey Network) In response to the Rashad Robinson; – and National continuing civil unrest in America Association for the Advancement of following the tragic murder of Colored People (NAACP) national George Floyd, board member – Reverend Dr. William The two-night special was broadcasted simultaneously on the following channels “Where do we go from here” featured J. Barber II. OWN, ET, HGTV, Food Network, Travel Channel, Cooking Channel and DIY. Oprah Winfrey as she spoke directly “I’ve been having private conversa- with a range of Black thought leaders, tions with friends and thought leaders we mourn the murder of George Floyd “We are honoured to partner with activists and artists about systematic about what’s next and where we go and ask ourselves how can we come OWN and use our global reach to racism and the current state of from here,” said Oprah Winfrey. together to create meaningful change,” amplify this important discussion America. “I thought it would be both of interest said Tina Perry, President, OWN. about the global issues of economic The in-depth conversations offered and service to bring their ideas, “I am proud that our Discovery family and social justice and equality to a insight and tangible plans to answer concerns and comments into a national has joined us to amplify this message potential audience of one billion p the questions – “What matters now?” spotlight.” in solidarity.” eople across more than 200 markets “What matters next?” and “Where do “As a network dedicated to support- “There is no one like Oprah to bring in a way that only Discovery can.” we go from here?” Featured guests ing and uplifting Black lives, OWN is us all together at this critical moment “OWN Spotlight: Where Do We Go included politician – Stacey Abrams, committed to providing our community in our history to offer insights, perspec- From Here” is produced by OWN. journalist – Charles M. Blow; – Atlanta with important dialogue and helpful tive and action,” said David Zaslav, The executive producers are Oprah Mayor – Keisha Lance Bottoms; – resources in this challenging time as President and CEO of Discovery, Inc. Winfrey and Tara Montgomery.

US theatre Anna Wintour says there are ‘too world accused few’ black employees at ‘Vogue’ Anna Wintour is owning up to the mis- Wintour added that she felt “it should takes and injustices made at Vogue. The be a time of listening, reflection, and of exploiting, 70-year-old editor-in-chief of the fashion humility for those of us in positions of magazine and artistic director for Condé privilege and authority.” Nast sent an email to staffers about the The fashion icon noted that it would be excluding POC publication’s transgressions. announced shortly how “work is being LOS ANGELES – Viola Davis, Lin- Wintour began the message, which was done” on a corporate level to support Manuel Miranda and Cynthia Erivo obtained by ET, with acknowledging the organisations. Wintour did not specify joined some 300 actors and playwrights “sadness, hurt, and anger” that her staff what organisations. on Tuesday in decrying racism in the Viola Davis. might be experiencing at this time in “Meanwhile, I want to say plainly that US theatre world, saying it had America’s history. I know Vogue has not found enough ways exploited, excluded and diminished It was addressed not just to theatre “I want to say this especially to the to elevate and give space to Black editors, people of color (POC). owners and theatre companies but also Black members of our team – I can only writers, photographers, designers and In an open letter addressed to “Dear to critics, casting directors, agents, imagine what these days have been like,” other creators," she continued. "We have White American Theatre,” the signato- labour unions and university training she wrote. made mistakes too, publishing images ries complained of tokenism, prioritis- programmes. or stories that have been hurtful or ing white theatre for white audiences, “We have watched you exploit us, intolerant. I take full responsibility and a failure to make promised changes shame us, diminish us, and exclude for those mistakes." in programming or leadership. us.We see you,” it said, adding that Once again addressing her black staff The letter follows a national reckon- despite holding anti-racism workshops, members,Wintour wrote, "It can’t be easy ing in the United States about systemic few changes are made to theatre to be a Black employee at Vogue, and racism, sparked by the death of African programmes or leadership. there are too few of you. I know that it is American George Floyd under the knee “This is a house that will not stand. not enough to say we will do better,but we of a white police officer last month. This ends TODAY,” the letter said. will – and please know that I value your Floyd’s funeral, broadcast nationwide, It was accompanied by a change.org voices and responses as we move forward. took place on Tuesday in Houston, petition demanding reforms in the I am listening and would like to hear your Texas, after two weeks of street protests theatre that by late Tuesday had feedback and your advice if you would around the world. been signed by almost 50 000 like to share either.” “We have watched you use our BIPOC people. This message comes after weeks of (black, indigenous, people of color) faces Others signing included “This is Us” protests across the country and around on your brochures, asking us to star Sterling K. Brown, “Pose” star Billy the world in the wake of George Floyd’s politely shuffle at your galas, Porter, playwright Lynn Nottage, death. Floyd was a 46-year-old black man talkbacks, panels, board meetings, “Black Panther” actress Danai Gurira, who after a police officer pressed his knee and donor dinners, in rooms full of and “Orange is the New Black” into Floyd’s neck for more than eight white faces,” the letter said. Emmy winner Uzo Aduba. Anna Wintour. minutes. The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 21

Oscar-winning Civil War epic ‘Gone with the Wind’ was pulled from the HBO Max streaming service as America’s reckoning with systemic racism extended to its pop- ular culture. ‘Gone with the Wind’ reignites debate as Hollywood wrestles with its history one with the Wind” remains racially charged aspects. The movie it- tudes filtered through the culture and arose again in 2017, when a theatre in the highest-grossing movie self won’t be altered. entertainment of the times. Notably, Memphis, Tennessee, opted to drop it “Gof all time when adjusted for The announcement followed a Los the new Netflix series “Hollywood” from a screening series after the Unite inflation and won ten Oscars, includ- Angeles Times oped by filmmaker zeroes in on that topic, with McDaniel the Right rally in Charlottesville, ing the first ever for an African- John Ridley, who noted that the film – who was segregated from her Virginia. American performer, supporting ac- “glorifies the antebellum south” and white co-stars at the Academy “You can’t sweep history under the tress Hattie McDaniel. perpetuates “some of the most painful Awards – featured as a minor rug,” USC professor of media and The 1939 movie – adapted from stereotypes of people of color.” character within the fictionalised cinema studies Todd Boyd told the Margaret Mitchell’s bestselling novel Disney has already publicly wrestled retelling. Los Angeles Times at the time, set during the Civil War – also con- with these issues in launching its The questions surrounding “Gone adding. “But it’s important to have tains numerous problematic elements streaming service, Disney+, opting not with the Wind” actually predated the context whenever you’re viewing that haven’t aged well, from stereo- to include the 1946 film “Song of the film. Debate immediately ensued over material of this kind. Otherwise, typed depictions of African Americans South,” another title that romanticised the 1936 publication of Mitchell’s people can embrace and celebrate to the debate over whether the stair- the old South. Disney+ has made other novel, with its nostalgia for plantation it without dealing with the whole case scene between Rhett and movies available, such as “Dumbo,” life, portrayal of happy slaves and truth.” Scarlett, which concludes off screen, with a disclaimer that reads, “This threatening freed blacks, and sympa- That process can be messy, and it in- was a case of marital rape. programme is presented as originally thy toward the Confederate cause. evitably invites criticism – especially “Gone with the Wind” is the latest created. It may contain outdated cul- As the Washington Post's Alyssa from conservatives eager to portray movie to face renewed concerns about tural depictions.” Rosenberg noted, even McDaniel’s Hollywood liberals as bowing to calls its exposure in the 21st century, as Seeking to contextualise old films is award-winning performance “couldn’t for censorship. Accused of insensitivity studios mine their libraries to stock not a new issue for WarnerMedia. The wholly transcend the trope of a loyal in the past, it's possible to engage in the shelves of new streaming services. company’s stable of cable networks in- slave who rejects freedom and prefers what can look like overreactions in the The controversy over that erupted cludes Turner Classic Movies, which to serve her former owners.” present. again this week, as HBO Max, the new presents such films with hosts who in- Weighing the movie’s negatives But there’s a difference between con- service from CNN parent troduce and discuss them. versus its merits – including Vivien text and censorship. If the best answer WarnerMedia, announced that it was The specific debate over “Gone with Leigh’s portrayal of the iconic heroine to potentially offensive speech or art is temporarily pulling the movie from its the Wind” is hardly a new one either, Scarlett O’Hara – Rosenberg con- more speech or art, facilitating a rotation. but as HBO Max noted, it comes at a cluded it is “the one Confederate mon- broader conversation about a classic The film will return, a spokesperson moment when the United States is ument worth saving.” like “Gone with the Wind” – which is a said, with “a discussion of its historical again grappling with its history on the The discussion of what to do with far cry from sweeping it away – repre- context” and denunciation of its subject of race – and how those atti- movies like “Gone with the Wind” sents a reasonable solution.

‘Cops’ TV show cancelled at Paramount Network The Paramount Network, a cable TV of reality television as it followed Spike TV, now the Paramount other troubling portrayals of crime and channel owned by ViacomCBS Inc, real-life police on the job. But it Network, picked up “Cops” in 2013. policing. removed “Cops” from its schedule. came under criticism as glorifying Civil rights group Color of Change “Cops led the way, pushing troubling The show debuted in 1989 on the Fox law enforcement without any footage applauded the decision to drop “Cops” implications for generations of view- network and was considered a pioneer of police brutality. and called on media companies to end ers,” the group said in a statement. 22 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate Band drops ‘Antebellum’ from name amid BLM movement ady Antebellum is changing its into account the associations that band name and apologising to weigh down this word referring to the Lthose who have been hurt by their period of history before The Civil War, use of the word antebellum. which includes slavery.We are deeply In an Instagram message yesterday, sorry for the hurt this has caused and the band said that they’ve been taking for anyone who has felt unsafe, unseen the time to learn about injustices, in- or unvalued. Causing pain was never equality and biases black men and our hearts’ intention, but it doesn’t women have faced historically and still change the fact that indeed, it did just face today.After personal reflection and that. So today, we speak up and make a conversations with black friends and change. We hope you will dig in and colleagues, the band members – Hillary join us.” Scott, Charles Kelley and Dave “We feel like we have been Haywood – decided to drop the word Awakened, but this is just one step,” The group announced yesterday that it will drop the word ‘Antebellum’ from the antebellum from its name and will now the message continues. “There are name it has used since its formation in 2006 and go by ‘Lady A’, a nickname it be known as “Lady A”. countless more that need to be 0taken. says fans have long used. Antebellum means “before the war”, We want to do better. We are committed but is widely used to note the time to examining our individual and collec- suffering from spoken and unspoken we’ve allowed ourselves to be unin- before the American Civil War. tive impact and making the necessary injustices, while influencing our chil- formed about how deeply rooted sys- “When we set out together almost 14 changes to practice antiracism. We will dren & generations to come.” temic racism is,” Lively's message years ago, we named our band after the continue to educate ourselves, have Scott, Kelley and Haywood aren’t the about their donation read in part. “We southern ‘antebellum’ style home hard conversations and search the only celebrities who have re-examined want to educate ourselves about other where we took our first photos,” the parts of our hearts that need pruning – some of their past choices in light of the people’s experiences and talk to our band said in their statement about to grow into better humans, better nationwide protests against police bru- kids about everything, all of it… espe- changing its name. “As musicians, it neighbors. Our next outward step will tality and systemic racism following cially our own complicity.We are com- reminded us of all the music born in be a donation to the Equal Justice the death of George Floyd. Blake Lively mitted to raising our kids so they never the south that influenced us…Southern Initiative through LadyAID. Our and Ryan Reynolds – who were criti- grow up feeding this insane pattern Rock, Blues, R&B, Gospel and of course prayer is that if we lead by example… cised in 2012 when they got married at and so they’ll do their best to never in- Country. But we are regretful and em- with humility, love, empathy and ac- a plantation in Charleston – recently flict pain on another being consciously barrassed to say that we did not take tion…we can be better allies to those donated $200 000 to the NAACP Legal or unconsciously. It’s the least we can Defense Fund. Lively was also accused do to honor not just George Floyd, in the past for her now-defunct website, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and Preserve, glorifying the antebellum Eric Garner, but all the black men and Stormzy pledges £10m over ten South. women who have been killed when a “We’re ashamed that in the past camera wasn’t rolling.” years to fighting racial inequality STORMZY has pledged £10 million to “We have to fight against the odds of UK organisations, charities and move- a racist system stacked against us and ments tackling racial inequality, justice designed for us to fail from before we Grammy Awards organisers reform and black empowerment. are even born,” he said. The London-born grime star said he He has also funded black British stu- will make his donation over the next dents at Cambridge University. tighten conflict of interest rules ten years. Stormzy said he was making his LOS ANGELES – Organisers of the The academy at that time described £10 million donation to fight racial in- annual Grammy Awards on Wednesday Dugan’s claims that its members equality because “the uncomfortable announced tighter rules regarding pushed artists they have relationships truth that our country continuously conflicts of interest after claims that with as “categorically false, misleading fails to recognise and admit, is that nominations for the highest honours in and wrong.” Dugan was later fired. black people in the UK have been at a the music industry were rigged. All the changes and the rules for the constant disadvantage in every aspect They also said the next Grammy Grammy Awards will be published on of life – simply due to the colour of our Awards show would go ahead as the Recording Academy’s website to r skin. planned in January 2021, despite the eflect an “ongoing commitment to “I’m lucky enough to be in the posi- coronavirus epidemic that has side- evolve with the musical landscape and tion I’m in and I’ve heard people often lined multiple cultural events. to ensure that the GRAMMY Awards dismiss the idea of racism existing in Under the new rules, released by the nominating process and rules are more Britain by saying ‘If the country’s so Recording Academy, members of the transparent and fair,” the academy said racist how have you become a success?!’ committees that nominate artists for in a statement. and I reject that with this: I am not the the Grammys must declare in advance Recording Academy interim presi- UK’s shining example of what suppos- whether they have any financial, dent Harvey Mason Jr. told Variety in edly happens when a black person family or other ties to artists being con- an interview on Wednesday that works hard. sidered. planning for the 2021 Grammys on “There are millions of us. We are not A failure to voluntarily disclose such January 31 was underway, with far and few.We have to fight against ties will result in the person being three options being considered. the odds of a racist system stacked barred from taking part in the process “One is the traditional show with the against us and designed for us to fail in the future. full crowd, two is a limited crowd, and from before we are even born. Allegations that the Grammy nomi- three is no crowd, and there’s creative “Black people have been playing on nations process is tainted were made in around all three of those ideas: how an uneven field for far too long and this a complaint filed in January by the for- and where we would film it. But none pledge is a continuation in the fight to mer chief executive of the Recording of them involve changing or postponing Stormzy. finally try and even it.” Academy, Deborah Dugan. the date,” Mason said.

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 •23

Kobe Bryant Los Angeles movie theatres fail to posthumously to get green light to open again receive L.A. Area LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles County Angeles County said that while day Hollywood movie studios have been Emmy Governors officials said on Wednesday that movie camps, museums, hotels and gyms could hoping that enough theaters will be and TV production could resume today, reopen as soon as today, movie theatres open to hold a late-summer blockbuster but movie theatres in the biggest market would remain closed. season. AT&T Inc’s Warner Bros. cur- Award in the United States must remain closed Officials did not say why. They an- rently plans to release Christopher KOBE BRYANT continues to be hon- because of the coronavirus pandemic. nounced 61 new deaths from coronavirus Nolan’s thriller “Tenet” on July 17, and oured and recognised. The late Los California state officials said earlier in the county, bringing the total to Walt Disney Co aims to debut the action Angeles Laker is the recipient of the this week that movie theatres could re- 2 768 deaths and 67 064 positive cases. movie “Mulan” on July 24. 72nd Los Angeles Area Emmy open as early as today, pending approval Television and film production, much AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc, the Governors Award, the Television from local officials, with attendance of it centred in the Los Angeles area, can world’s largest movie theatre operator, Academy announced Wednesday.The capped at 25% of capacity and other restart under guidelines drawn up by an said on Tuesday it was expecting to re- basketball legend, who died in January, hygiene and social-distancing industry-wide task force. They include open almost all its US and UK theatres along with his daughter and seven oth- protocols. extensive coronavirus testing and daily in time to showcase the two movies. ers in a helicopter crash, was selected Movie theatres closed their doors symptom checks for actors and crew Cinemark Holdings Inc plans to open by the Los Angeles Area Governors around the world in mid-March to help members. five theatres in Texas on June 19 to test Award committee. curb the spread of the coronavirus, and Despite the green light, production on new safety procedures. Cineworld Group Bryant is being posthumously recog- movie and television production also most Hollywood films and television Plc owner of Regal Cinemas in the nised for “his legacy of philanthropy, ground to a halt. shows is not expected to resume until United States, said it believes all of its community building and inspiration In a press release on Wednesday, Los September. theatres will reopen in July. that extended beyond the basketball court.” The Emmy Governors Award is presented to an individual, company or organisation that has made an out- Disneyland announces plans to reopen July 17 standing, innovative and visionary achievement in the arts, sciences or THE “Happiest Place on Earth” is getting July 23. time in history that Disneyland had management of television as well as a ready to reopen amid the coronavirus To make guests comfortable and safe, closed. The first was in 1963 for a substantial contribution to the greater pandemic. After closing its Disneyland Resort will open with national day of mourning after President Los Angeles area. doors March 14, Disneyland Resorts enhanced safety and health measures, John F. Kennedy was assassinated, the The NBA icon was nominated by announced Wednesday that it is as well as limited park capacity and a second was in 1994 after the Northridge Spectrum SportsNet for his contribu- planning to open the park gates on reservation system put in place. Once earthquake, and the third was after the tions to the Lakers, bringing five cham- July 17. reopened, parades and nighttime 9/11 attacks. pionships to the city, as well as his As part of the phased reopening, spectaculars will be put on hold and Meanwhile, as coronavirus restrictions 18 All-Star appearances and two Downtown Disney District will begin re- return at a later date. Though character and social distancing guidelines start to Olympic games. opening July 9. Disneyland and Disney meet-and-greets will be temporarily relax across the country,Walt Disney Bryant was also known for inspiring California Adventure Park will then plan unavailable, “characters will be in the World also shared its plans for a “phased others with his words, passion and to reopen July 17. Pending state and local parks in new ways to entertain and reopening” of some of its Florida parks, countless charitable contributions in the government approvals, Disney’s Grand delight guests.” beginning July 11. greater Los Angeles and Southern Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s When the Anaheim, California, park California communities. As mentioned Paradise Pier Hotel plan to reopen closed in March, it marked the fourth by the Television Academy, Bryant “championed a number of worthy causes and critical issues, becoming an Coachella, ambassador for women’s basketball, a mentor and youth advocate, and raised awareness of homelessness in L.A." Stagecoach music The Los Angeles Area Governors Award will be presented during the festivals cancelled 72nd Los Angeles Area Emmy Awards streaming Saturday, July 18 at 7 pm PT on Emmys.com. for 2020 over Additionally, Bryant is being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball virus concerns Hall of Fame’s Class of 2020. While the ceremony was scheduled to take place THE 2020 editions of the Coachella in August, it was announced last month music festival and its country music that it would be postponed until spring counterpart Stagecoach have been 2021, due to the ongoing pandemic. cancelled due to concerns over a possi- ble autumn resurgence of COVID-19 cases, Riverside County health office said late Wednesday. “I am concerned as indications grow that COVID-19 could worsen in the fall,” said the County’s Public Health Officer Cameron Kaiser, who signed the order canceling the festivals. Coachella, one of the biggest music festivals in the world that brings half a million fans to an open-air site in Indio, east of Los Angeles, and Stagecoach were initially scheduled for April, but were re-scheduled for October. Entertainment news website Billboard had earlier reported here that Coachella is unlikely to take place this year, adding that Anschutz Entertainment Group, the parent Disneyland is getting ready to reopen its doors on July 17. Though character company of both the music festivals’ The late Kobe Bryant has is to be hon- meet-and-greets will be temporarily unavailable, ‘characters will be in the parks organiser Goldenvoice, is laying off oured posthumously with the 72nd Los in new ways to entertain and delight guests’. 15% of the workforce. Angeles Area Emmy Governors Award.

24 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Celebrities including Julianne Moore, Kristen Bell, Justin Theroux and Kesha have been slammed for a “tone deaf” new public service announcement where they take responsibility for racism. Celebrities team up for ‘I Take Responsibility’ racism campaign in ‘cringe’ video host of celebrities including media, “y’all so god damn stupid and from their mansions during this joined and sang lines from the song too. Kristen Bell and Justin Theroux clearly didn’t think this (through). #pandemic? – Peter Daou (@peterdaou) Stars such as Kristen Wiig, Jamie Ahave appeared in a campaign video June 11, 2020 Dornan, Labrinth, James Marsden and amid the Black Lives Matter protests, “What are they auditioning for – Stone Others called on them to “take it down” Sarah Silverman are all seen delivering but fans haven’t received it well. Cold Jane Austen (@AbbyHiggs) June 11, and quipped: “It’s not too late!” lines from the popular tune. Celebrities including Julianne Moore, 2020 Bryce Dallas Howard, Debra Messing, The video continues with celebrities Kristen Bell, Justin Theroux and Kesha Aaron Paul, Stanley Tucci and Sarah Eddie Benjamin, Jimmy Fallon, Pedro have been slammed for a “tone deaf” new Ending Racism:The Musical – Marlow Paulson are just some of the other names Pascal, Chris O’Dowd and his wife Dawn public service announcement where they Stern (@MarlowNYC) June 11, 2020 who were involved in the video. O’Porter. take responsibility for racism. Much of the criticism was also aimed at “This is cute and all but a lot of us are The video is a collaboration between I kept fast forwarding to try and find the the celebrities for reading off of cue cards, out of work. Myself and all of my friends Confluential Films and the NAACP part where the rich, beautiful white people and for their decision to “overact” while sooooo… you’ll still be rich while we where “influential voices from the white say what they’re gonna do about racism being recorded. scrounge to get by. We aren’t in this community take responsibility for turning and SURPRISE it never arrives – Emily The video also sparked comparisons to together,appreciate the sentiment though the racist tide in America”. Gaudette (@emilygmonster) June 11, 2020 Gal Gadot’s decision to bring together …” one fan commented. However, viewers have flocked to the While I admit its almost impossible for pals including Natalie Portman and Zoe A second person wrote: “BOO donate if comments sections on YouTube, Twitter, celebrities to win in these instances (si- Kravitz to sing a rendition of John you really care about the world,” while a and Instagram, to criticise the video and lence = part of the problem, say some- Lennon’s Imagine as the world self- third added: “A song won’t help us at this suggest that celebrities have “learned thing = tone deaf lip service), not making quarantined in early March. point.” nothing” from the “Imagine” video deba- overly dramatic performance pieces that In response to the coronavirus pan- Over on Twitter, even more people were cle. seem totally self serving would probably demic, Gal, 34, took to social media to having their say with one person even “This is so absurd and insulting at the be a start – KFC (@KFCBarstool) June share the video. claiming they had “ruined a beautiful same time I can’t do anything but 11, 2020 The Israeli-born actress started singing song” and saying they had “bloated LAUGH,” shared one viewer on social What’s with celebs making cringe videos the 1971 hit before a string of celebrities egos”. K-pop boyband BTS’ fans match group’s $1m donation to BLM SEOUL – Fans of the popular South Twitter account yesterday that they are base, known as ARMY, an acronym for and are making a real impact in the Korean boy band BTS matched its against racism and violence with the Adorable Representative MC for Youth, fight against anti-black racism,” OIAA $1 million donation to Black Lives hashtag BlackLivesMatter. to match the group’s $1m donation. said. Matter (BLM) in support of US protests “We stand against racial discrimina- On Monday, One In An ARMY “We stand in solidarity with black against police brutality, an organisation tion. We condemn violence.You, I and (OIAA), a group that runs donation ARMY. They’re an important part of our that runs fundraisers for the fans said we all have the right to be respected. campaigns in the name of the BTS fan family.And we stand with black people on Monday. We will stand together.” base, in a statement said the live dona- everywhere. Your voices deserve to be The K-pop group’s music label, Big The hashtag went viral among the tion total surpassed $817 000 within heard.” Hit Entertainment, on Sunday told group’s fans and started another wave 24 hours after BTS’ donation was The campaign had raised $1,007,518 Reuters that BTS had donated $1 mil- of donations with the hashtag reported. as of Monday at 9:47 am (0047 GMT), lion to BLM in early June. MatchAMillion. “We’re so proud that ARMY have once and will continue indefinitely, the The seven-member BTS wrote on its The movement encouraged BTS’ fan again channelled their power for good organisers said.

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 25 J.K. Rowling defends ‘transphobic’ comments J.K. ROWLING is candidly opening up and sexual assault survivor,” she about the increasing numbers detransi- about her recent controversial tweets, writes. “This isn’t because I’m ashamed tioning (returning to their original which have been labelled ‘transphobic’. those things happened to me, but be- sex).” On Wednesday, after days of online cause they’re traumatic to revisit and The author says that she’s read lots attacks, the 54-year-old British Harry remember.” of writings by transgender men, noting, Potter scribe posted a lengthy explana- Rowling adds that she did not wish to “The more of their accounts of gender tion on her website to explain her “garner sympathy” with this revelation, dysphoria I’ve read, with their insight- thinking. but rather to show “solidarity” with ful descriptions of anxiety, dissociation, “On Saturday morning, I read that women who have similar histories eating disorders, self-harm and self- the Scottish government is proceeding “who’ve been slurred as bigots for hav- hatred, the more I’ve wondered with its controversial gender recogni- ing concerns around single-sex spaces.” whether, if I’d been born 30 years later, tion plans, which will in effect mean As for transgender women who have I too might have tried to transition. The that all a man needs to ‘become a been the victims of sexual violence, allure of escaping womanhood would woman’ is to say he’s one. To use a very Rowling writes, “If you could come in- have been huge. I struggled with severe contemporary word, I was ‘triggered,’” side my head and understand what I OCD as a teenager. If I’d found commu- Rowling writes, giving context for the feel when I read about a trans woman nity and sympathy online that I could- timing of her tweets. dying at the hands of a violent man, n’t find in my immediate environment, “Ground down by the relentless you’d find solidarity and kinship. I have I believe I could have been persuaded attacks from trans activists on social a visceral sense of the terror in which to turn myself into the son my media, when I was only there to give those trans women will have spent father had openly said he’d have pre- children feedback about pictures they’d their last seconds on earth, because I ferred.” drawn for my book under lockdown, I too have known moments of blind fear With regard to a common response to spent much of Saturday in a very dark when I realised that the only thing her tweets, Rowling writes, “I’ve been place inside my head, as memories of a keeping me alive was the shaky self- told to ‘just meet some trans people.’ I serious sexual assault I suffered in my restraint of my attacker.” have: in addition to a few younger J.K. Rowling. twenties recurred on a loop. That as- Rowling goes on to say,“I want trans people, who were all adorable, I happen sault happened at a time and in a space women to be safe. At the same time, I to know a self-described transsexual understand why trans activists con- where I was vulnerable, and a man cap- do not want to make natal girls and woman who’s older than I am and sider this language to be appropriate italized on an opportunity. I couldn’t women less safe. When you throw open wonderful.” and kind, but for those of us who’ve had shut out those memories and I was the doors of bathrooms and changing Rowling adds that while she feels degrading slurs spat at us by violent finding it hard to contain my anger and rooms to any man who believes or feels “sympathy” for many members of the men, it’s not neutral, it’s hostile and disappointment about the way I believe he’s a woman – and, as I’ve said, gender transgender community, she strongly alienating.” my government is playing fast and confirmation certificates may now be disagrees with certain transgender Rowling also claims that many other loose with womens and girls’ safety.” granted without any need for surgery activists. women and feminists disagree with In the course of her essay, Rowling or hormones – then you open the door “The ‘inclusive’ language that calls these activists but are afraid to do so says for the first time that she is a to any and all men who wish to come female people ‘menstruators’ and ‘peo- publicly.“I know this because so many victim of sexual assault. inside. That is the simple truth.” ple with vulvas’ strikes many women have got in touch with me to tell their “I’ve been in the public eye now for Rowling also shares that she’s “con- as dehumanising and demeaning,” she stories. They’re afraid of doxxing, of los- over 20 years and have never talked cerned” by the “huge explosion of young writes, directly referencing the tweet ing their jobs or their livelihoods, and of publicly about being a domestic abuse women wishing to transition and also which sparked online controversy.“I violence,” she shares. “But endlessly unpleasant as its constant targeting of me has been, I refuse to bow down to a movement that I believe is doing demonstrable harm in seeking to erode Iggy Azalea leaves fans ‘woman’ as a political and biological class and offering cover to predators like few before it. I stand alongside the brave women and men, gay, straight confused with missing and trans, who’re standing up for free- dom of speech and thought, and for the rights and safety of some of the most vulnerable in our society: young gay details in surprise kids, fragile teenagers, and women who’re reliant on and wish to retain their single sex spaces.” baby announcement Rowling says that she wanted to ggy Azalea’s fans have been left After her statement dropped, her fans write this essay to give context to confused by her surprise baby took to Twitter to beg for answers. herself and her reasoning behind the Iannouncement. One posted: “who’s the dad? Is it tweets. “I have a complex backstory, The singer left her followers shocked Carti????” which shapes my fears, my interests this week when she announced she’d Another asked: “Did Iggy Azalea just and my opinions,” she explains. “I never given birth to a baby boy after hiding her have a child???? When was she preg- The singer left fans shocked this week forget that inner complexity when I’m pregnancy Kylie Jenner-style. nant??? yo....is carti a dad” when she announced she’d given birth creating a fictional character and I However it was the missing bits of “When the f**k was Iggy pregnant I’m to a baby boy and had hidden her preg- certainly never forget it when it comes information that left her fans scratching so confused,” another posted. nancy, but fans want to know more de- to trans people.” their heads and desperate to know who Iggy and Playboi first started dating in tails. Rowling first faced controversy this the father is and exactly when she had 2018 and were rumoured to have split weekend when she mocked an article her baby. after several months. talking about “people who menstruate,” Iggy sent her fans into a frenzy when However she then hinted in July 2019 joking that there “used to be a word” for she posted on Instagram : “I have a that they’d got engaged by flashing a those people. After being slammed on son. I kept waiting for the right time to diamond ring when she was asked about social media by members and allies of say something but it feels like the more her relationship in an interview. the transgender community, the time passes, the more I realize I’m She didn’t verbally confirm the British author then clarified her always going to feel anxious to share news engagement and hasn’t discussed it since. position, tweeting, “If sex isn’t real, that giant with the world. Reports surfaced in December that Iggy there’s no same-sex attraction. If sex “I want to keep his life private but was six months pregnant, and that rap- isn’t real, the lived reality of women wanted to make it clear he is not a secret per Playboi was the father, but globally is erased. I know and love and I love him beyond words.” nothing was ever confirmed and no trans people, but erasing the concept of People may assume that the Australian further details emerged. sex removes the ability of many to rapper, 30, welcomed her baby with DJ Akademiks recently claimed Iggy meaningfully discuss their lives. It isn’t rumoured fiancé Playboi Carti. had given birth at the end of April. hate to speak the truth.” However, Iggy – real name Amethyst But Iggy threw everyone off the scent This comment garnered even more Amelia Kelly – didn’t name the father of by repeatedly posting bikini pictures, backlash, and led to Daniel Radcliffe, her baby in her post, or say exactly showing off her flat tummy, throughout Eddie Redmayne and more stars when she was pregnant with her little the entire time she was reported to be Rumoured fiancé and daddy, speaking out against Rowling’s re- boy. pregnant. Playboi Carti. marks

26 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Kelly Clarkson files for divorce KELLY CLARKSON though she didn’t appear has filed for divorce. in the video. The singer filed for “Just now seeing this divorce from husband and I am bawling! Brandon Blackstock in They’re all so cute!” Los Angeles on June 4, Clarkson gushed over ET confirms. the video. “I’ve had a bit Clarkson and Black- of a rough week and this stock tied the knot in just turned it around.” 2013 and share two Clarkson began dating children together, five- Blackstock, son of her year-old daughter River former manager Narvel and four-year-old son Blackstock (and former Remington. The couple’s stepson of Reba split comes as a surprise McEntire) in 2012. to fans; Blackstock “This isn’t a downer to wished Clarkson a heart- anybody I dated before felt happy birthday on him, but I’m just going to her talk show in late be real: I never felt like, April. honesty, sexually at- The “American Idol” tracted to anybody before alum’s daughter started him,” Clarkson said of the video with a touching Blackstock during a Kelly Clarkson has filed for divorce from her hus- promise for her mom. “I show in 2017. “And I’m band Brandon Blackstock. love you, momma,” she not downing my exes. said. “I hope you have a You know, everybody’s she didn’t make a move. being single and coming good birthday day and I different. But there was They didn’t meet again home every night alone. love you so much. And I something about him.” until 2012, after his “di- It’s awesome.’” would sing a special song “I honestly thought I vorce from Melissa Clarkson has raved for when it’s your birth- was asexual – I'’d never Ashworth. over her marriage over day, well, today.” been turned on like that “We didn’t even know the years, but in a Remy, was up next to in my whole life,” she each other, but he had 2015 interview with share his birthday continued. “I was like, walked past me once and Redbook,she said that wishes, before ‘Oh that’s that feeling… there was a moment in Blackstock was not her Blackstock’s 13-year-old OK! That’s what they my crazy head,” she said. “other half.” son, Seth, chimed in. were talking about in “He thought I hated him, “Brandon is not my Blackstock rounded out Waiting to Exhale.’ I just too. When I finally con- other half. He’s a whole the video, which was got it. I just didn’t have a fessed, ‘I really dig you,’ and I’m a whole,” she ex- filmed outdoors in clue.” he was so shocked be- plained. “I’ve never be- Montana, where the fam- Clarkson said she “felt cause he thought I hated lieved in someone taking ily has been self-quaran- something” when she him. I hadn’t let on that care of me, and that’s tining. Blackstock is also first met Blackstock in I liked him. Inside I was probably because I grew dad to 18-year-old 2006. However, he was like, ‘Ask me out!’ but up poor and without a lot Bridge daughter Savannah, married at the time, so outside I was like, ‘I love of family stability.”

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 27 SPORTSSPORTS Meets to James Anderson says England may feature join Windies in anti-racism protest chlorinated ENGLAND will con- ing,” said Anderson. Anderson’s former team- Is there more I can do as a rest in the running of the water jumps, sider joining West We will have conversa- mate Michael Carberry player to help the situa- game. Indies if the tourists tions about what we can said cricket is “rife with tion?” Speaking to BBC Asian make an anti-racism do as players to make a racism”. Meanwhile, former West Network’s Ankur Desai, sanitized gesture during the stand.” Anderson, England’s all- Indies captain Darren Sammy said: “In the last forthcoming Test se- Amid demonstrations time leading Test wicket- Sammy said the death of few years we have seen sand pits ries, says James around the world, some taker, believes all players Floyd, whose neck was the big three. What is the BERN – Athletics meet- Anderson. sports stars have chosen can play a part in tackling kneeled on by a police offi- International Cricket ing organizers have been Windies captain Jason to take a knee. the issue. cer for nearly nine min- Council doing to help the advised to put chlorine in Holder said on Wednesday West Indies all-rounder “As players and a game, utes, was a symbol of “peo- lesser boards? the water jump, clean he will discuss with his Carlos Brathwaite, who we need to be more active,” ple in power suffocating “West Indies are in relay batons between team if they will add to the will be part of the BBC he said. “We need to ac- people of lesser means”. England to tour right now each use and add a solu- protests seen since the commentary team for the tively make this a game He drew a comparison during Coronavirus. If it tion containing a virucide death of George Floyd. three-Test series begin- for everyone. to the cricketing world, was in the Caribbean agent to sand pits as part “It’s been a very ning on 8 July,took part in “It can’t keep going the where the ‘big three’ right now and England of hygiene guidelines for thought-provoking few a protest in London. way it is. It’s just not OK. nations of England, had to tour,would it be the events during the coron- weeks for everyone. It’s Earlier this week, ex- That is the sort of thing Australia and India have same thing? How many avirus pandemic. made me do a lot of think- England batsman and I’ve been thinking about. held more sway than the players would turn up?” The sport’s governing body,World Athletics, has issued 22 pages of guide- lines which it said in a statement Thursday were “based on scientific and Former IAAF medical knowledge of the virus responsible for president turns on Covid-19.” After a wave of post- ponements, World son at corruption trial Athletics is hoping that a PARIS – Former IAAF his overriding concern had shortened season can president Lamine Diack been to secure long-term take place between pointed a finger of blame funding for the IAAF, in- August and October in- at his son, saying he be- cluding by wrapping up cluding a number of elite haved like “a thug,” as he the sponsorship deal with Diamond League meet- was quizzed in detail for Russian bank VTB. ings. the first time in court “It was essential. For The recommendations Thursday on charges that that I was prepared to for organizers include the the governing body of make compromises,” use of face masks by all track and field became a Diack said. officials, media and ath- nest of corruption and Prosecutors say he did letes in the stadium, ex- doping cover-ups under much more than just that. cept when they are warm- his leadership. Diack and one of his sons, ing up or competing. The degree to which Papa Massata Diack, are It also suggested the or- Diack was aware of the on trial on charges of cor- ganizers provide partici- alleged squeezing of hush- ruption, money launder- pants with a welcome money from Russian ath- ing and breach of trust. bag that includes at letes suspected of doping The son is being tried in least three single-use remained unclear from his absence, having fled in masks, bottles of hand his often confused, contra- 2015 to Senegal, where he sanitizer and disinfectant dictory and uncertain tes- lives. They are accused of Former president of the IAAF (International Association of Athletics wipes. timony. having conspired together Federations) Lamine Diack arrives at the Paris courthouse. During competition, of- Frequently, the in a scheme that allegedly ficials who come into close 87-year-old Diack seemed squeezed millions of dol- VTB deals alone, Diack ble understanding each secure its long-term sta- contact with athletes not to have fully under- lars in hush-money from said he hadn’t known. other in exchanges about bility by signing sponsors should wear protective stood or heard lengthy, athletes who paid to avoid The prosecution also al- details of the case. before his presidency glasses or a plastic face detailed questions posed doping sanctions and keep leges that the father-son “I’m not a doctor but I ended in 2015. shield, in addition to a by the panel of judges. competing. partnership worked to- think that because of his “Financial health ahead mask, the guidelines say. Diack acknowledged, Pressed by the chief gether in hushing-up sus- age, there are things he of everything,” he said. For track events, start- however, that he had in- judge about his son’s role, pected Russian doping doesn’t fully understand But lawyers for athletes ing blocks should be tervened in the manage- Diack at first gave an in- cases for money. Diack de- in the questions that are who are seeking redress cleaned between each ment of suspected cases of audible response before nies the charge. asked of him,” Diack’s say the handling of the race, chlorine added to doping by Russian ath- saying: “He conducted His lawyer, Simon lawyer said. Russian cases had a the water jump for the letes, giving instructions himself like a thug.” Ndiaye, said outside the But he added that Diack harmful sporting and steeplechase and relay that they be handled in a The prosecution alleges court that Diack wasn’t “wants to clear his name” human cost, forcing their batons cleaned “between way that would avoid a that Diack abused his po- aware of athletes being and not have it be said clients to compete against each use”. scandal that could disrupt sition to put Papa squeezed for hush-money. that he was unable or un- doped Russian runners For the high jump and negotiations with a Massata Diack, who The judges repeatedly willing to answer ques- who should have been sus- pole vaults, the use of Russian sponsor and tar- worked as an IAAF mar- struggled to get clear and tions. pended. hand sanitizers is recom- nish the 2013 world cham- keting consultant, at the coherent answers from As IAAF president, Testifying by video link, mended between each at- pionships in Moscow. center of a system that en- Diack. He spoke fluently Diack oversaw an era the World Anti-Doping tempt. Rather than having a abled the son to cream off and with clarity about when Usain Bolt made Agency’s director general, Officials should clean group of Russian athletes large chunks from the gov- events early in his life and track and field wildly pop- Olivier Niggli, told the the landing mat between being sanctioned at the erning body’s revenues. earlier in his career that ular. But Diack said in court that the saga dealt a each jump using a mop same time, “we said the But when the IAAF’s were unrelated to the court that behind the “terrible” blow to the cred- and virucidal solution, or procedures should be lawyer put it to Diack in charges against him. But scenes, the IAAF was in fi- ibility of the anti-doping use a thin layer of recycla- spread out,” Diack said. court that his son si- Diack and the judging nancial difficulty and that system and caused lasting ble plastic that can be He repeatedly said that phoned millions from the panel repeatedly had trou- he was driven by a need to damage. placed on the mat.

28 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

Truex ends 2020 Manfred says winless skid with ‘100%’ chance of victory at Martinsville MARTINSVILLE, Va. – race. MLB season, new Martin Truex Jr. used a “It’s been a stressful trip to NASCAR’s short- couple of weeks,” Wallace est track to end a lengthy said on FS1. “This is no losing streak on the day doubt the biggest race of proposal soon the stock car series at long my career tonight. I’m ex- NEW YORK – Baseball tiate a new agreement last banned the Con- cited about tonight. Commissioner Rob with the MLBPA that gets federate flag. There’s a lot of emotions Manfred says there is a us more games and re- Truex cruised down the on the race track.” “100%” chance of big solves the issues that have stretch and won his first Wallace wore a black “I league ball this year. separated us amicably,” NASCAR Cup race of the Can’t Breathe”T-shirt but Major League Baseball Manfred said. “But at the season on Wednesday did not kneel during the will make another pro- end of the day, we negoti- night in the first race national anthem. His posal to start the pan- ated for the right in March under the lights at Chevy had “Compassion, demic-delayed season in to start the season on a Martinsville Speedway. Love, Understanding” em- empty ballparks, but number of games that we Truex, the 2017 Cup blazoned on the hood. He Manfred vowed select in these particular champion, has been one of finished 11th at Wednesday to unilaterally circumstances. And if we NASCAR’s biggest win- Martinsville. order opening day if an have to, we’ll exercise that ners over the last three ‘Our Black Lives Matter agreement is not reached. right.” years, but failed to find Chevrolet — that’s so good “I can tell you unequiv- A March 26 agreement victory lane for Joe Gibbs to say,right — was so good ocally we are going to play called for prorated Racing over the first 10 on the long runs,” Wallace LeBron James Major League Baseball salaries in exchange for races of this season. He said. this year,” he said. $170 million in salary ad- won 19 times from 2017- The 26-year-old Manfred insisted the vances and a guarantee of 2019. Wallace, who finished sec- chance of playing this year service time even if no “I knew we were going ond in the 2018 Daytona backs effort to was “100%.” games were played. to get one soon,” Truex 500, also had a dose of The players’ association Manfred wouldn’t di- said. “Hopefully we can newfound fame. Already made its second proposal vulge when he would get on a roll.” outspoken on social prevent US Tuesday,asking for an 89- order a shorter schedule. Tick tock. The time ran causes in NASCAR, game regular season and MLB initially proposed 82 out on the losing streak. Wallace denounced the 100% of prorated salaries. games and the union re- Truex won the flag and his message MLB’s plan a day earlier sponded with 114. While Martinsville grandfather spread throughout sports. black vote was for a 76-game season, players want to extend the clock on the paperclip- Los Angeles Lakers star would guarantee 50% of postseason deep into shaped track at just 0.526 LeBron James tweeted a prorated salaries and November, teams fear a miles. He won for the first “BIG S/O” to Wallace and hinge 25% in additional second wave of the coron- time with new crew chief retired NFL star Deion suppression money on the postseason’s avirus would jeopardize James Small. Sanders tweeted he was LOS Angeles Lakers interference in elections, completion. the postseason. The play- “It’s huge for him and proud NASCAR “recog- star LeBron James is the novel coronavirus has “It will be a another sig- offs alone generate $787 his confidence and for the nized the sensitivity of our starting a group with raised questions about nificant move in the play- million in broadcast rev- way people look at him,” country while confronting other black celebrities voting safely and activist ers’ direction in terms of enue — before selling any Truex said. the racial injustices.” to work to prevent the groups are worried about the salary issue that has games caused by an ex- “I think it’s huge. I Wallace even made suppression of the voter suppression. kept us apart,” Manfred pansion. knew all along that he some new NASCAR fans African-American vote, “There will be an active said during an interview “Each and every day was capable, I know he’s — for a night, at least — a person familiar with campaign of suppression,” with ESPN before that that goes by, we lose the going to be an amazing out of other athletes. New the matter said on according to the person fa- network’s coverage of the capacity to play at least crew chief for a long time Orleans Saints running Wednesday. miliar with James’ efforts. amateur draft. one game, and that’s re- to come.” back Alvin Kamara James’ group, More “These athletes are the “We’re hopeful that it ally the time pressure Ryan Blaney, Brad replied to NASCAR’s Than a Vote, will be fo- most trusted members of will produce reciprocal that’s significant at this Keselowski, who has two statement with a tweet cused on educating and their communities.” movement from the play- point in time,” Manfred wins this season, and asking “when the next protecting black voters as Apathy, online disinfor- ers’ association, that we’ll said. Joey Logano made it a 2- race??” with a popcorn well as energizing more to mation campaigns and ef- see a number other than The players’ association 3-4 finish for Team emoji. He followed along show up at the polls for forts to restrict voting 100% on salary and some declined to comment on Penske. on social media, as did the Nov. 3 U.S. elections, rights have been blamed recognition that 89 games, Manfred’s remarks. The race started shortly Carolina Panthers safety according to the person for lower black participa- given where we are in the MLB claims each addi- after NASCAR said the Tre Boston. who declined to speak tion in the 2016 elections. calendar in the course of tional regular-season Confederate flag would be But NASCAR’s decision publicly about the cam- On Tuesday, many peo- the pandemic is not realis- game in empty ballparks be prohibited from all angered a contingent of paign. ple waited for hours to tic,” he said. causes a $640,000 loss be- NASCAR events and flag loyalists, who stewed “We feel like we’re get- vote in person during MLB has threatened a cause 40% of revenue is properties. on social media. NASCAR ting some ears and some Georgia’s tumultuous pri- shorter schedule if play- tied to gate.The union has The issue was pushed to helmet artist Jason Beam, attention, and this is the mary elections, especially ers insist on 100% of their disputed MLB’s figures the fore this week by who paints designs for time for us to finally make in counties with large prorated salaries. The but claims it has not been Bubba Wallace, some of the sports biggest a difference,” James told black populations in and union likely would file a given the data it needs to NASCAR’s lone black stars, was among the the New York Times, around Atlanta, where grievance, contending a make a full evaluation. driver and an Alabama loudest critics. which first reported the dozens of polling stations longer schedule was eco- “Some owners have native who called for the He unleashed a string news. closed due to coronavirus nomically feasible and mentioned that owning a banishment of the of tweets blasting the James and other concerns. asking arbitrator Mark team isn’t very NET prof- Confederate flag and said move, writing “You celebrities expected to James was among a Irvings to award damages. itable.. You know what there was “no place” for it can’t erase history participate - including number of high-profile There has not been a big other company isn’t very in the sport. Wallace by picking and choosing basketball player Trae athletes who spoke out league schedule of fewer NET profitable? Amazon,” drove the Richard Petty what parts you want to Young, comedian Kevin after the death of George than 80 games since 1879. tweeted Washington Motorsports’ No. 43 keep and don’t won’t to Hart and businessman Floyd, an unarmed black Both MLB and the union pitcher Max Scherzer, a Chevrolet with a keep.” Maverick Carter - will use man killed last month have proposed expanding member of the union’s #BlackLivesMatter paint Oh well, Reese their social media pres- after being seen lying face the playoffs from 10 teams eight-player executive scheme. Wallace, wearing Witherspoon gave the rul- ence to provide informa- down in the street while a to as many as 16 this year subcommittee. an American flag mask, ing a high-five emoji on tion to voters. white police officer knelt and next, but that en- Manfred told MLB clapped his hands when Twitter, and that alone Their plan comes at a on his neck for several larged postseason is con- Network the sides were asked about the decision might be enough to out- time when Americans are minutes. The incident led tingent on a deal. “very,very close” to agree- before the start of the weigh the haters. concerned about foreign to protests worldwide. “I would prefer to nego- ment on health protocols. The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 29

30 • Friday June 12, 2020 The Barbados Advocate

With a swing and silence, PGA Tour gets back to business FORT WORTH, Texas – Palmer seemed to speak opened with seven birdies Brian Harman and Bill With one swing met for everyone when he said, in 12 holes before settling Haas a thumbs-up as they with silence, the PGA “It was just great to be out into a series of par for a 63 walked off the tee. Tour got back to busi- there playing.” and the early lead. Tom Monahan returned to ness Thursday at Golf is the second major Lehman even got in on the the tee for the 8:46 a.m. Colonial. sport in the U.S., behind act at age 61, opening with starting time with no play- Ryan Palmer felt more motor sports, to resume a a 65. ers’ names listed on the nerves than usual when schedule shut down by the Dustin Johnson strug- tee sheet. The tour kept he stood over his first tee COVID-19 pandemic. gled to a 71. that time open as a tribute shot in the Charles Among the safety meas- But it was more about to George Floyd, who was Schwab Challenge — the ures are coronavirus tests the scenery than the handcuffed while a white first official shot on the for every player, caddie scores, and it was eerie. police officer pressed his PGA Tour in 90 days — and essential personnel. Palmer was selected to knee to the back of the and even more bizarre Of the 487 tests at hit the opening shot as a black man’s neck. Floyd was making a 10-foot Colonial, the results were Colonial member who has died after pleading for air, birdie putt on the second all negative. raised money for pan- sparking worldwide out- hole with no one around “We’re all taking risks demic relief through his rage over racial injustice. to cheer. playing golf, obviously,” “Pros for a Purpose” cam- Everyone at Colonial — The closest thing to a Palmer said. “Being back paign. It was difficult to on the course, on the prac- crowd was a few people out here, everybody leaves hear the starter announce tice range — stopped for a who watched from behind the club, they’re going out his name from 40 feet moment of silence on a hedges and a chain fence to dinner and doing away, not because the course that already was from a nearby street. things, so everybody is starter was wearing a quiet without spectators. Phil Mickelson made taking that risk to be here. mask but because the only That’s what stood out — one birdie and instinc- Everybody is pretty confi- other noise was the hum of no crowd, no grandstands, tively squeezed the bill of dent that we’re going to all a nearby generator. no tents, the typical struc- his cap to acknowledge a be safe. I think everything PGA Tour tures that define a golf crowd that wasn’t there. has been done the right Commissioner Jay course. Harman said he Justin Thomas, playing in way.” Monahan watched from had to back off a few putts Dustin Johnson tees off at the 11th hole during the the afternoon, made birdie Some of the golf was the starter’s booth — a because he was distracted first round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf on the second hole and pretty good, too. rarity for him to be on the by the sound of someone tournament at the Colonial Country Club in Fort mockingly raised his put- Justin Rose, a winner at first tee of any opening teeing off a few holes Worth, Texas. ter in celebration. Colonial two years ago, round — and gave Palmer, away.

The Barbados Advocate Friday June 12, 2020 • 31

P HOROSCOPES R O ARIES (March 21-April 19). Grab hold of your pioneer- S ing spirit today, because you could be asked to do a lit- A tle exploring today. You may have the opportunity to try N something no one has ever done before, which should go D a long way toward spicing up your life and making things interesting once again. C O TAURUS (April 20-May 20). The fewer financial deal- N ings you have with others today the better. It's not that you S necessarily need to save money, but your emotions are uncertain, and you could be associating buying something with solving something. Paying a problem to go away isn't the right idea. It will only help you waste your money. You need to focus on any challenges you en- counter the right way.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Observe the environment around you closely today, especially if there are people Z around. It will be fun as well as educational, and even I maybe a little inspiring. Expect to collect some new T ideas and a juicy tidbit of overheard gossip. Maybe you'll S make lingering eye contact with a cute stranger!

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You probably don't want to go public with your latest life problem, and the good news is that you don't really have to. Just share the news about your current predicament with the one or two peo- ple in your life who really know you inside and out. Divulge only as much as you want. They will probably be able to guess the rest. R LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). The people around you today E don't seem like they're saying what they truly mean. X Could they be holding their tongue because they're afraid of hurting your feelings or ticking you off? When they M ask you for your opinions, you don't mince words, so why O should they? Speak up and let them know that when you R ask them a question, you expect the truth. G A VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). There's a good feeling at- tached to the energy today, allowing you to take full ad- N vantage of all the possibilities life throws your way. Let things develop at their own pace instead of trying to rush things. You might feel slightly off balance, but it's noth- ing you can't overcome. If you're willing to work for what you want, nothing can stop you!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Soon, someone you care P about could be celebrating a birthday or milestone of some sort, and you should make sure they know that H you remembered! Belated wishes are fine, but it's much A more meaningful if you can be prepared and acknowledge N them the right way at the right time. T O SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Today, that nagging feel- M ing you've been having about something or someone should start to fade away. All of your worries were un- founded, which will become evident by the end of today. You trusted your instincts, but they turned out to be wrong. It's extremely rare, but it does happen.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Today, all of your choices and ideas could have everyone buzzing with ad- M miration, and maybe even just a bit of jealousy. But you A can't let other people's envy get you down. Keep on bust- R ing out with your smart style, and stop caring about who's getting all worked up about it. It's their problem if Y they can't give you support without giving you attitude. W CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It wouldn't hurt you O to have a little more discipline in your life, so why are R you so annoyed by the prospect of following the rules? Knowing what is right and what is wrong doesn't have to T feel stifling. If you just switch your perspective, rules can H help to simplify your life and give you a clear idea of the path you should be on.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). The advice you give to friends today might not be warmly received, but it will M sink in nevertheless. Don't think that just because they O don't thank you for what you said that they didn't listen T to it. Passing on what you have learned from past mis- H takes is something undeniably valuable, and they know E that. R

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). The energy is lively today, G giving your spirits a lift and bringing out your inner O artist. You'll feel your zeal return, which can propel you O forward if you've felt stuck in a rut for an extended pe- S riod of time. You may feel more appreciated at home and E at work, too. Take advantage of this special time.

Friday June 12, 2020 Worrell says: USAID COMMITTED Visitors’ amidst COVID-19 confidence key REVIVAL of travel and tourism in this pandemic region will be based on visitors’ confidence that their health will be protected while on TOTHE USAID Eastern REGION and Southern holiday. Caribbean agency is committed to This is the stance being taken by Former the growth and security of the Central Bank Governor Delisle Worrell region and has reaffirmed its while speaking on indications being made commitment and contribution by several Caribbean countries of towards efforts aimed at building reopening their respective tourism resilience across several areas, industries in the upcoming weeks. especially more so, given the impact In his Economic Letter for this month, he of the COVID-19 pandemic on lamented however that none of the regional countries measures currently being taken for the re- Mr. Clinton White, Regional opening involved collaboration with all the Representative for the USAID/ESC relevant international players, who have Mission in the Caribbean acknowledged issued a list of recommended measures. the above, as he delivered remarks He also noted tourists must first be able during the UN & UNDP’s Consultation to travel and socialize safely within their for Action online forum, which was own countries, and then be assured that recently held under the topic, they can travel and socialize in the “Reopening the Economy at the End of Caribbean as safely as they can at home, the COVID-19 Response”. The e-series before the region’s tourism sector will start was just one of a virtual series of on the path of recovery. consultations, set up to discuss some of “This is a very tall order, but it is the the critical challenges facing the region challenge for countries everywhere, not in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic just for tourism or tourist destinations.The and to identify innovative solutions for same protocols which will allow for the catalysing recovery and building long- resumption of spectator sports, political term resilience. rallies, religious gatherings, weddings, Mr.White pointed out that the United concerts, festivals and other large States has mobilised as a nation to gatherings, will suffice for the revival of combat COVID-19 both at home and tourism,”Worrell said. abroad and to date, the US has pledged Stating this was the decision all countries more than $1 billion in health and of the world must reach sooner or later, he humanitarian assistance, to help outlined it could be achieved faster with countries around the globe respond to collaboration between Governments, COVID-19. hotels,airlines and other tourism interests He meanwhile noted that in the and their representative bodies, under the Caribbean, health assistance has been auspices of the United Nations and its provided to the Caribbean for years and agencies, led by the World Health more than 236 million has been Organisation. provided to assist with healthcare alone. “The Caribbean should mobilise to He pointed specifically to the promote this dialogue through our regional investment made in Barbados’ Best-dos bodies, the Caribbean Tourism Santos Public Health Laboratory at Organisation (CTO) and the Caribbean Enmore, Collymore Rock, St. Michael, to Hotel and Travel Association (CHTA). Our the tune of US$6 million, as well as leaders have to accept that it is not within other investments in the millions to the capacity of Caribbean countries to others in the Caribbean. restore the trust of visitors.The things that Meanwhile, it has been noted that the Caribbean must do to restore across the globe, USAID is supporting confidence will become clear when practices countries affected by COVID-19 and has are in place to allow people to mingle freely, been working directly with to use all forms of public transport without governments, multilateral physical distancing, to dispense with the organisations, NGOs, the private sector, use of masks and other protective gear,and and other organisations responding on to attend social gatherings,large and small. the ground, to combat the dangerous “The “new normal” will be revealed when pathogen. This includes working with Mr. Clinton White, Regional Representative for the USAID/ESC Mission in the regular American football season frontline workers to slow the spread, the Caribbean resumes with full spectator participation, care for the affected, and equip local and no adverse health consequences.Only communities with the to assist countries to scale up their risk spread of the virus. This builds upon then will Barbados, Jamaica, the Bahamas tools needed to fight back against communication efforts, water and decades of U.S. investment in the and the rest of the Caribbean have clear COVID-19. sanitation, prevent and control Caribbean, including more than US$236 guidance on the measures that will suffice Finance has been made available to infections, manage COVID-19 cases, million in health assistance over the to restore visitor confidence,” Worrell governments in the Eastern Caribbean strengthen laboratories, and curtail the past 20 years.(RSM) added. 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