Established October 1895

Enjoy Valentine’s Day

Sunday February 14, 2021 $2 VAT Inclusive CLOSER TIES ‘Combatting COVID-19 has strengthened friendship between Barbados and China’ “WE are living on the same bration to mark the start of the Barbados, joined hands to com- pain. They sent Barbados thou- planet; we are a community Chinese New Year on February bat the epidemic.When Chinese sands of masks, protective suits, with a shared future and we 12. people fought against COVID testing kits and other PPEs (per- must help each other when His comments came as he de- early in 2020, I received solidar- sonal protective equipment) to facing common challenges.” scribed 2020 as an extraordinary ity and support from all walks of help our Bajan friends to over- This is the view of Chinese year in human history because of life in Barbados. I want to see come the difficulties.The experi- B’dos Tourism Ambassador H.E Yan Xiusheng, the COVID-19 pandemic. thank you for your kindness. ence of combating the virus to- who was speaking during the According to the Ambassador “While since the outbreak of gether has strengthened our Board announces Fish and Dragon Festival on Xiusheng, “...But during the the epidemic in Barbados, friendship.” Thursday night, a virtual cele- tough time, we, China and Chinese people felt the same TIES on Page 7 new chairman Page 3

Operation Seek and Save pushes ahead

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One of the ethereal presentations from the dynamic Henan Performing Arts Troupe from China. ‘Don’t drop your guard’

BARBADIANS are being re- come from Dr. Corey Forde, icantly reduced by about 80 per is now much greater. So that in Reliving minded that the wearing of Infectious Disease Specialist cent or even greater if you use a that particular sense of things, masks, along with other recom- and Head of the Isolation different type of mask. So this is if you are not wearing a mask memories of mended health protocols such Facilities in Barbados. a very important point. It de- and the other person isn’t wear- as social distancing and the “The spread of the disease as pends on the other person wear- ing a mask, then there is still a Holetown sanitising of hands, will remain we know, is by droplets. So if you ing a mask as well,” he ex- risk to you,” he noted. Festival key in the fight against COVID, wear a mask and I wear a mask plained. “I made the point on televi- even as some persons get the and we are talking about cloth “So if I am wearing a cloth sion a little while back, which COVID vaccine. masks here, then the risk of mask and the other person people were a little bit puzzled Pages 24 & 25 This key piece of advice has spread from you to me is signif- around me is not, then that risk PROTECT on Page 2 2 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Two more deaths from COVID-19

BARBADOS’ death toll from the Government of about the Oxford level of efficacy and was recommendations also ad- a personal choice, the from Covid-19 has risen India, will be used in AstraZeneca vaccine, it recommended by WHO for dressed the fact that the Barbados Association of to 23. The persons who the island’s vaccination had been endorsed by the use “even in countries that Oxford Astra Zeneca vac- Medical Practitioners were felled by the viral programme; while part of World Health have circulation of the cine does not require deep, (BAMP), the nurses of illness most recently this number will be shared Organisation as well (South African) variant.” subzero temperatures for Barbados, other health are two females, an 80 with sister CARICOM suited to persons over 65. Up to this point, the Covid- storage like some of the professionals, and year old Trinidadian countries. “This is important given 19 vaccine has not been other vaccines on the mar- Ministry officials hope that and a 75 year old Health Minister Lt. Col. the fact that senior citizens recommended for persons ket. This makes the vac- every Barbadian will take Barbadian. Hon Jeffrey Bostic constitute a large percent- under 18 years old, but re- cine appropriate for use in this opportunity to protect The Barbadian senior stressed the value of the age of the Barbadian pop- search is now ongoing to tropical and developing themselves and their loved passed away on the Covid-19 vaccine as part ulation.” test the suitability of the countries with limited ones from the illness, its evening of February 12, of the arsenal in fighting Minister Bostic further AstraZeneca vaccine for storage capacity. more virulent forms and after spending 3 days in the disease. He com- commented that WHO had minors. The Minister said, reduce the risk of death; the Primary Isolation Unit mented that while ques- also indicated the vaccine In addition, the Minister “while being vaccinated is this is what the vaccine of- of the Harrison Point tions had been asked was proven to have a high pointed out that the WHO completely voluntary and fers.” Isolation Facility. The Trinidadian national passed away this morning (February 13), after 15 days on a ventilator in Clearer protocols needed for businesses Primary Isolation at Harrison Point. ACTING General close to allow other em- sponsible thing after they businesses to determine you do not have clear pol- The Ministry of Health Secretary of the National ployees to be tested or to came into contact with a or interpret it and then icy and businesses are in- and Wellness is extending Union of Public Workers self-isolate until results positive person and they the next thing you know terpreting it themselves, condolences to the griev- (NUPW) Wayne Walrond are returned. reported to the depart- you have an outbreak it will be to their detri- ing families and friends of is asking for clearer Describing this as an ment and self-quaran- and you are forced to shut ment still,” he said. the deceased. Observing COVID-19 protocols for area of concern for tined away awaiting as the inevitable hap- Walrond stated govern- expressed sadness that businesses. unions, he stated the sit- tests,” but were unsure as pens. So there has to be a ment was now in a posi- these deaths occurred as Speaking on Down to uation was creating a to if they should return clear policy on if there is tion where it was juggling the Ministry of Health and Brass Tacks on Friday,he sense of uncertainty in to work without results. secondary contact or if a between the economics Wellness is moving to take spoke on those situations the public sector as well "There have to be clear person working in a de- and the safety of the na- the National Covid-19 where a worker either as the private. Covid policies. If you are partment is so isolated tion, but questioned, “how Vaccination Programme to tests Covid-19 positive or He said, “Even in the talking about primary that you can justify the much can you compro- full roll-out. Some 100,000 is a primary contact of a public sector, some nurses versus secondary contact, continuation of the busi- mise health and safety doses of the Oxford positive individual, but and other persons were it must be spelt out ness. Maybe it can, but for the economic side of AstraZeneca vaccine, a gift the business does not stating they did the re- clearly and not left up to you have to be clear. If it?” Following recommendations key in COVID fight

PROTECT from Page 1

by, but understood even- tually and that is, if I am in a room with you and you have COVID and you are wearing a mask and I am wearing a mask and we use hand sanitiser and we appropriately distance, then I won’t get COVID. I manage COVID patients every day. My team man- ages COVID patients every day with appropri- ate distancing, with wear- ing masks and none of us have gotten COVID, (after) repeat testing. So this is interesting, because if we use these measures, then you should be fine,” Dr.Forde stressed. He meanwhile cau- tioned persons against let- ting their guard down whilst out and about at supermarkets or gas sta- Dr. Corey Forde, Infectious Disease Specialist and tions, for example. Head of the Isolation Facilities in Barbados. “I usually tell people Harrison Point is the have COVID, where you tioned Barbadians to not safest place in Barbados relax things. Even the drop their guard. and they usually (are sur- church that you may go to, Dr. Forde was at the prised). But we know peo- you may relax things. time speaking on the topic ple there have COVID,so Even at home with your “Fighting COVID-19”, as we know what not to do. families, moving back and a recent special guest on It’s the supermarkets and forth. For us, that is the the St. Philip Parish the gas stations that you risk that we are seeing,” Church’s Parish Hour, on- go to, where people may Forde indicated, as he cau- line. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 3

Foundation aims to Barbados Tourism grow its programme Board announces

By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste years old right up to 35 years of with the pandemic there was a new chairman age. lot of uncertainty, however, IT is the hope of The “And so right across the with the creation of the online ON Friday,Minister of Tourism Sojourner Foundation to board, in the future, once we farm programme, and having and International Transport, grow their Youth Farming can attract additional funding, five acres of land that allowed Senator the Hon. Lisa and Leadership we would be able to work with for them to socially distance, Cummins, announced the ap- Programme going forward. more youth and help to provide growth of the programme pointment of longstanding Speaking with The them with greater training and seemed possible. tourism practitioner, Roseanne Barbados Advocate during a entrepreneurial opportunities,” In the past they had funding Myers, to Chairman of the recent interview, Leah Clarke, she said. support from the UNDP Global Board of Directors of the Director of Finance and She noted that based on the Environment Facility Small Barbados Tourism Marketing Business Administration in feedback from the Youth Grants Programme, Sagicor, Inc. (BTMI) and Barbados the Foundation explained that Farming and Leadership the Maria Holder Memorial Tourism Product Authority the programme was developed Programme, this was some- Trust and the Sandy Lane (BTPA). for young people and noted thing that persons would be in- Charitable Trust, and while Myers brings 39 years’ expe- that even though the pro- terested in. they are extremely grateful for rience to the table as she takes gramme was initially rolled out Aldair Sobers, the Chairman this support, Clarke stated up the post, with the mandate with the trainees from the and Co-Founder of The that right now they are hoping to build and execute a re- Barbados Youth Advance Sojourner Foundation ex- to raise more funds and part- vamped tourism framework Corps, their aim was to con- plained that one of the reasons nerships in order to develop that will competitively position tinue to develop their curricu- the programme was created their property further as their Destination Barbados coming lum so that they could eventu- was to in fact provide opportu- aim is to get more animals and out of COVID-19. ally work with students from nities for the youth. develop their agro-processing Speaking on the new ap- as young as three and four He noted that obviously now space with solar energy. pointment, Cummins ex- pressed, “This is a critical time for tourism and we need our best thinkers on economics, in- vestment, business, trade, so- Ministry focusing cial policy and industrial rela- Roseanne Myers has been tions, education, international appointed Chairman of the and community development. Board of Directors of the We need our youth, entrepre- Barbados Tourism Marketing on job creation for neurs and every single stake- Inc. holder all together at the table of policy development and im- (BTII). plementation. Mrs. Myers is an Commenting on her immedi- yachting sector exceptional tourism profes- ate plans and objectives for sional who has successfully run navigating the organization APPEALING to environmen- tourists now are ore conserva- Atlantis Submarines as a mar- through the current crisis, tally conscious millennial tion minded, we’re looking at quis attraction. She brings Myers stated “As I assume the Welcome Stamp visitors and how to capitalise on that. In with her a history of leadership Chairmanship of the Barbados developing new avenues of em- addition, we’re looking at job that includes stakeholders at Tourism Marketing Inc. and ployment in the yachting sec- creation in the yachting sector every single level. Barbados Tourism Product tor are avenues of focus emerg- with a paper before Cabinet “From hoteliers, to workers, Authority, I am committed to ing from the stewardship of right now. This would see the to attractions across the direct leading the tourism sector to Kirk Humphrey as Minister of Barbados Port Incorporated of- tourism services to interna- creating a path for ‘when’ and Maritime Affairs and the Blue fering a Request for Proposals tional partners and regional not ‘if’ tourism survives this Economy... on equipment to lift out ves- partners, she is capable of shock, and to shaping the form In a recent partnership with sels of a certain size and this strong leadership and I am it emerges. Firstly, I recognize the UNDP, the Ministry com- requires new skills and train- very much looking forward to that the challenge should more pleted a Scoping Study of the ing, while many feel COVID working with her as we re- strategically be seen as the Blue Economy where alterna- meant a demise of the (mar- shape our sector to face the greatest test for the country, tive means of thriving in a itime) industry, it really led to challenges of the now, the op- more so than just the tourism post-Pandemic world were ex- a whole new way of re-thinking portunities of the future, and sector. amined – those findings can be that sector – people still want position our institutions and “When we adopt the wider reviewed at to want to travel. People still people to meet the require- perspective, it will help the or- https://www.bb.undp.org/con- want to move.” ments of the new tourism sec- ganization to better answer the tent/barbados/en/home/li- Nikola Simpson, Head of tor. We need all Barbadians at hard questions – how can we brary/undp_publications/bar- Accelerator Lab, Blue the table so we can have an all support the primary focus on bados-blue-economy-scoping- Economy, UNDP in Barbados Barbados approach,” Cummins safeguarding lives today,while study.html. & the Eastern Caribbean also Kirk Humphrey - Minister of said. reengineering ourselves and Minister Kirk Humphrey in shared with online colleagues Maritime Affairs and the Currently the General providing creative ‘thought’ recognising climate change as and participants a glimpse of of Blue Economy. Manager of Atlantis leadership to guide the sector a serious challenge for Small some of the findings which Submarines Barbados, Myers to secure livelihoods for the im- Island Developing States re- echoed Minister Humphrey’s which project saves turtles, has served as director on the mediate and long-term future. alises hurricane season creates sentiments – “UNDP’s Good this is where Barbados and its boards of several major public The first task is to align na- opportunities previously ig- Seal which recognises hotels, regional counterparts must and private sector tourism in- tional and organizational nored by other administra- restaurants and other partners capitalise on.” stitutions including the BTMI, goals; second is to listen and tions. who support local food security, This research is part of the Barbados Port Inc. (BPI), respect the institutional knowl- Mr Humphrey in giving clos- which adds to the benefits of support both the Ministry of Tourism Development edge; and third to structure a ing remarks at a virtual cere- Barbados’ Welcome Stamp. On Maritime Affairs and the Blue Corporation (TDC), Deputy data-driven approach to craft mony to observe the comple- social platforms, these Economy along with UNDP Chair of Kensington Oval the way forward. tion of that report, outlined fu- Welcome Stamp students and Barbados is looking to achieve Management Inc. (KOMI), and “I look forward to working ture plans by his Ministry to remote employees are looking the objective of promoting re- Chair of the Barbados Hotel with the BTMI and BTPA develop new streams of rev- for places to spend their money silience and accelerating the and Tourism Association team, and the public and pri- enue earning for fisherfolk and which respect the environment accomplishment of Sustainable (BHTA). She is also a director vate sector in this regard. other members of the marine be it land or sea – whether it’s Development Goals within the on the board of the Barbados Survival requires all hands-on community – “We recognise by planting a tree or knowing Caribbean. Tourism Investment Inc. deck.” 4• Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Wickham speaks on possibility of Sinckler move COMMENTING on the moderating the Down to to some extent if he disas- Party voice at this point in of Sinckler. Sinckler’s utility has to do rumours circulating on so- Brass Tacks radio-call in sociates himself from the time and yes, it does help “So the idea that he with the fact that he is a cial media suggesting that program recently, Democratic Labour Party to further destabilise the could cross and become a legitimate DLP voice that former Finance Minister Wickham said several largely because that or- DLP, but it would think candidate on the other is lending weight to a con- Chris Sinckler is joining viewpoints must be con- ganization is not in any that candidacy in the side is something that versation at this time the Barbados Labour sidered on what benefits position to give him any shape of Chris Sinckler is seems unlikely to me and when we are facing a crisis Party (BLP), Political could be gained by political direction at this unwise and highly un- I would also like to think and I do not know whether Scientist Peter Wickham Sinckler joining the ranks time. likely at this time,” he con- somewhat unwise, but he has any political ambi- said he would be surprised of the current ruling party. “Is it logical for Prime tinued. nonetheless it is some- tions one way or the by such a move. “As far as Sinckler is Minister Mottley? I am Pointing out the BLP’s thing that could happen other,” Wickham argued. The rumours began fol- concerned, is it logical for not really sure that it 29-1 seat majority,the po- and it would be curious to “That being said, I lowing Sinckler’s presence him to make such a move? helps her considerably. litical pollster further said see how the relationship would be very, very sur- at a recent social partner- I guess it could be. I think Yes, it does lend a legiti- Mottley had several other develops going forward. prised if he took such a de- ship meeting, and while he could be rehabilitated mate Democratic Labour candidate options outside My sense is at this stage cision.” Speak out! COUNTRIES must gen- over 5400 reports were erate a sense of accounta- made, of which 24 per cent bility among people to end were child sexual abuse the culture of domestic vi- and 84 per cent of those olence and violence children were girls. against women and child, “So we know that within to put an end to the im- the home this is not a safe punity for the perpetra- space, and it is also not a tors of such acts. safe space for children as That’s the view of there is corporal punish- Roberta Clarke, Officer in ment, physical violence Charge, UN Women East and child sexual abuse. So and Southern African we have that the domestic Regional Office. She made violence against adult the comments during a re- partners, we have the cently held virtual joint child sexual abuse, we meeting of the Rotary have child physical abuse, Club of Barbados and the and then we have the con- Rotary Club of Central sequences of that, teenage Port of Spain, where the pregnancy.” topic of ‘The Impact of The UN Women repre- COVID-19 on Domestic sentative said while these Dr. Rosina Wiltshire, Gender and Development Specialist and Caribbean Women In Leadership (CIWiL) Violence in the Caribbean’ types of violence are on Regional Board Member. took centre stage. the rise, all is not lost and She said concerns about society as a whole has a domestic violence are even part to play. She said that more concerning since the organisations like Rotary Great focus on women’s onset of the COVID-19 can also help to raise pandemic. Clarke ex- awareness. plained that countries “Y’all have a voice; y’all have been seeing an in- can be advocates of zero decision-making and crease in domestic vio- tolerance, and all forms lence at this time, and ar- the gender based violence; gued that there have been y’all can be advocates for other negative impacts of improved services and you participation in public life the COVID lockdowns on can can use your re- women’s right to safety sources to work with po- COVID-19 has shone a also made it clear that the elimination of vio- ence, voice and influence and security. lice, and work with the light on the critical role women in leadership lence, for achieving gen- of women and girls in gov- “For example, in courts, and to work with that women play in make a difference to the der equality and the em- ernance processes in the Eastern Southern Africa social services to make every aspect of health lives of men, women and powerment of all women region, in keeping with where I am working right sure people are looking on. and well-being, and the children. and girls”. commitments made by now, they are seeing a dra- You know, we all together strengths that they Transformational, com- The CARICOM CARICOM Member matic, and they saw this are calling for accounta- bring to decision mak- passionate leadership Secretariat and UN States that have ratified almost within the first few bility and for better serv- ing. saves lives”. Women Multi-Country the Convention on the months, a dramatic in- ices to support families in This was the view ex- Recognizing the impor- Office for the Caribbean, Elimination of all forms of crease in teenage preg- harm’s way. And then of pressed by Dr. Rosina tance of convening sepa- in collaboration with Discrimination Against nancies and what we call course, the voice to call for Wiltshire, a Gender and rately from Latin America Caribbean Women in Women (CEDAW) and child marriages, we say the cultural change. If you Development Specialist on the CARICOM’s needs Leadership (CIWIL), which are signatories to early sexual unions in the know someone in difficul- and Caribbean Women In and priorities, the virtual University of the West the Beijing Platform for Caribbean. I don’t know if ties, we must not stay Leadership (CIWiL) two-day CARICOM Indies Institute for Action (BPfA) and the anybody’s tracking what’s silent about that. It has to Regional Board Member, Preparatory Meeting Gender and Development Sustainable Development happening in pregnancy, be part of the national during a recent CARI- Ahead of CSW 65, was Studies and ParlAmericas Goals (SDGs). but maybe that’s some- conversation, we have to COM/UN Women Meeting convened on February 9th coordinated the two-day Other key speakers for thing we can look into,” break the silence, and we held in preparation for the and 12th to review and discussion, involving “Building a Coordinated she said. have to break the silence Sixty-Fifth Session of the adopt a CARICOM Ministers with responsi- Caribbean position for Clarke added, “When particularly on behalf of Commission on the Status Statement on the theme bility for Gender Affairs, CSW65” included Roberta we talk about domestic vi- children of child sexual of Women (CSW65), of CSW 65.The Statement Parliamentarians, heads Clarke, acting Regional olence, we don’t often talk abuse. So use our voice, scheduled to take place at is to be incorporated into of the National Gender Director of the UN Women about child sexual abuse, use our influence to move United Nations the Americas and Machineries, representa- - Africa; Dr.Hilary Brown, but that is also part of the forward on the preven- Headquarters in New Caribbean Statement to tives of civil society and Programme Manager for pattern of family life in tion,” she maintained. York,March 15 – 26, 2021. the global meeting in academia participated in Culture and Community the Caribbean.” With that in mind, The theme of that session March 2021. The theme the preparation sessions. Development at the CARI- With that in mind, she Clarke said that a big as- was “Building a this year for CSW 65 The coming together of COM Secretariat and UN referred to Trinidad, not- pect of prevention is gen- Coordinated Caribbean meanwhile is “Women’s these key stakeholders in Women Caribbean ing that the 2018 statis- der equality, which she Position for CSW 65”. full and effective partici- gender affairs anticipated Representative, Tonni tics of the Children’s said efforts also have to be Dr. Wiltshire told those pation and decision-mak- constructive dialogue on Ann Brodber, amongst Authority showed that made to address. (JRT) gathered, “COVID has ing in public life, as well as ways to increase the pres- others. (RSM) The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 5 Operation Seek and Save pushes ahead WITH a few days re- nity, isolate them where maining before the necessary and so assist in slated February 17th the containment and the end of the National reduction in transmission Pause, members of the of the disease”. Operation Seek and Head of the COVID-19 Save team remain com- Communications Unit, H. mitted to the task. Elizabeth Thompson re- Members of the group vealed recently that to were found in date, 37 034 households Rendezvous, Christ have been reached Church yesterday just through the initiative. after 11 in the morning. Operation Seek and The University of the Save is being carried out West Indies students went during the National Pause from house to house in period which started on this area. The residents Wednesday,February 3rd. who interacted with the It is expected that each Operation Seek and Save household in all 30 con- personnel were coopera- stituencies across the is- tive and willingly to an- land will be reached swer the questions of the within the timeframe. Members of the Operation Seek and Save team as they visited homes in Rendezvous, Christ Church COVID-19 Community (MG) yesterday. Evaluation Survey. Each response given was en- tered into the smart phone carried by each team UWI students celebrate good grades via Zoom member. This survey, as was out- By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste very difficult, especially something I missed.” to be one of the most chal- pline themselves and set lined by Chairman of the for me because I tend to For someone going to lenging semesters she some boundaries to try to Cabinet COVID-19 Sub- BEING able to maintain procrastinate a lot, so UWI for the first time, had encountered thus far. remain focus and achieve Committee, Senator Dr. a GPA of 3.5 or higher paying attention to a com- Linton encouraged them “I work and attend the task that you would Jerome Walcott in a past during a pandemic is puter screen was a little to email their professor school full time so being have set out to do this se- televised press conference, something to be cele- difficult, but during exam whenever they had a able to balance both as- mester.” is intended to assist the brated, and Friday night, season I tend to give it my problem and urged them pects and still being able She added that it was Ministry of Health and the students of the all and I somehow came not to feel daunted in to perform well at school, also important for stu- Wellness with identifying University of the West out successful,” she said. doing so as most of the it feels amazing to have dents to try to stay up to individuals in household Indies, Cave Hill Campus “The online environ- professors were ex- done so,” she said. date with their classes. who are suspected to have celebrated that fact via a ment was really stressful, tremely understanding, “I didn’t really mind the Peter noted that for some, COVID-19 or dengue. Zoom ceremony. the only pro for online as this was a difficult and online classes as much be- the fact that the classes Walcott said then the One student, Tammy was that I could go back unfamiliar time for them cause for me it worked were pre-recorded gave a data gathered is critical Linton, who is studying and review the work af- as well. better than the face to false sense of comfort and because “we need that Psychology and is in her terwards and it also Adaria Peter, a second face classes. So having the may lead you to relax now valuable information for final year, stated that she saved me a lot of bus fare, year student studying classes being recorded thinking you can play us to try to identify the in- felt accomplished to be but as I said before, pay- Management with a con- worked well. But having catch up later, however, cidents of COVID in the able to have maintained ing attention to a screen centration in Marketing to attend the classes from she said that that was not community. We know we her GPA as transferring and not getting that one said that it was an amaz- the comfort of your own the smartest thing to do are seeing the cases but to an online environment on one experience that ing feeling to be on the home can be a little chal- and stressed the impor- we want to go and to be was stressful at first. you could just go and ask Dean’s List and to have lenging, so I would advise tance of staying up to pre-emptive and to find “Transferring to the on- the teacher for an expla- maintained her GPA dur- first years, and any UWI date in your classes as the those cases in the commu- line environment was nation was difficult and ing what she considered student really, to disci- semester progressed. CARICOM SG says thanks for vaccines BDF Chief: ‘We SECRETARY-GENERAL to combat the Covid-19 of the Caribbean Pandemic,” the Secretary- Community (CARICOM) General said. “This ges- will bring Care Ambassador Irwin ture underlines her sup- LaRocque expressed pro- port for the staff of the found thanks to the Secretariat and concern Honourable Mia Mottley for their well-being. It is a Packages to you’ Prime Minister of further demonstration of Barbados for her provision her unswerving commit- CHIEF of Staff of the We remind you please of COVID-19 vaccines for ment to regional integra- Barbados Defence Force help us by remaining on the staff of the CARICOM tion.” Colonel Glyne Grannum your doorstep, no further, Secretariat. Prime Minister Mottley is assuring Barbadians in your doorway, no fur- Prime Minister Mottley donated vaccines to other that they will receive ther, and we will bring the directed that 100 doses of Member States of the their ‘care packages’. packages to you. Please the batch she donated to Community from a batch He said that personnel do not attempt to crowd Guyana be provided to the received from the from the BDF will deliver the back of vehicles or to staff of the Secretariat Government of India. them to each of the recip- go to the vehicle. We will based at the headquarters Dominica also donated to ients doorsteps. bring the packages to of the Community in other Member States from The BDF is being mind- you”. Guyana. The Prime the supply the country ful of the COVID-19 pro- “The Barbados Defence Minister has also made also received from India. tocols which require that Force in partnership with provision for staff of the Ambassador LaRocque persons do not bunch; do the other agencies, and Secretariat based in said “my staff and I are Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community not form crowds. the whole of society ap- Barbados. deeply appreciative and (CARICOM) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque receiving “You remain in your proach to dealing with the “It is with immense touched by this action his dose of the vaccine. house,” he urged. distribution of care pack- gratitude that I welcome which is in keeping with “We the soldiers, the ages is determined, and the Prime Minister’s gen- the reality of the pan- Some staff members ters on Friday including sailors of the Barbados will deliver the packages erosity in supplying the demic that no one is safe were vaccinated at the the Secretary-General. Defence Force, we will to you,” the BDF Chief Secretariat with vaccines until everyone is safe”. Secretariat’s headquar- bring the packages to you. further stressed. (TL) 6 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Seventh Fish and

THE annual Fish and Dragon form for us to show our Bajan friends Festival was hosted on Thursday how we Chinese people celebrate our night with a grand cultural extrav- new year, and a great opportunity to aganza to celebrate the Chinese share with you our happiness during New Year. our most important celebration. It has The festival was held for the first time become a treasure of both of our two online because of the COVID-19 pan- countries and peoples.” demic. Lunar New Year fell on February Minister in the Prime Minister’s 12 this year, ending the Year of the Rat Office with responsibility for Culture, and marking the beginning of the Year John King said while this year’s festival of the Ox. is being held in challenging circum- The event ,held in collaboration with stances, it speaks to the unbreakable the Embassy of the People’s Republic of force between our two countries. China and the Central Bank of “The performances last year of our Barbados, showcased the jaw-dropping Barbadian-Chinese community should feats of the Henan Performing Arts be a reminder to all of us that regard- Troupe and the talent of some of less of geography,ethnicity,our culture, Barbados’ top entertainers in song and we are all members of the human fam- dance. ily; and as such, we can never forget Chinese Ambassador H.E Yan our responsibility to love and respect Xiusheng said the Fish and Dragon fes- each other.” Deputy Central Bank Governor President of the Association for tival is one of the best demonstrations “The arts have always brought people Alwyn Jordan. Barbados-China Friendship of deep friendship between Barbados together. And it is my hope that as we Dr. Delisle Worrell. and China. “...It has become a good plat- sit in our respective homes and watch this broadcast, that we are moved and inspired to learn more about each other.” Minister King said, “It is through cu- riosity that we seek to know, it is through knowing that we understand and it is through understanding that we nurture tolerance... I implore every- one on both sides of our nations after the festival, please explore the wealth of information available online about Barbados and China. Make it a priority to make new friends with an intention to visit as soon as possible. If you can commit to this, the spirit of the Fish and Dragon Festival will be realized.” He also used the opportunity to thank the people of China for their support and generosity prior to and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar sentiments were made by Deputy Central Bank Governor Alwyn Jordan who thanked the ambassador for the donations of vital PPEs, laptops and other equipment made to Barbados Minister in the Prime Minister’s from China last year. “For more than This performer from the Henan Performing Arts Troupe showed tremendous Office with responsibility for Culture four decades, our two governments have strength and agility. John King. Cont’d on next page

Kellie Cadogan and Vibestry delivered a powerful performance. The dynamic Riddim Tribe Dancers delivered a performance infused with Chinese elements. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 7

Dragon Festival: A virtual extravaganza

Cont’d from previous page enjoyed close diplomatic relations and for the past six years, the Central Bank of Barbados and the Embassy of the People's Republic of China have used the Fish and Dragon festival to forge even closer bonds between our two countries.” President of the Association for Barbados-China Friendship (ABCF) Dr. Delisle Worrell said the association is happy to join with the Chinese commu- nity in Barbados to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The former Central Bank governor said the ABCF is an as- sociation formed to build a deeper un- derstanding between the Chinese peo- ple and Barbados. He assured that once it becomes possible to travel again, the association will be arranging group tours to China. (JH) The Henan Performing Arts Troupe were a spectacle to behold.

Lowrey Leon & Black Banana featuring André Woodvine were also outstanding There was a demonstration of the Chinese traditional erhu otherwise known as during the online celebration. the Chinese violin. Working together to win the war against COVID

TIES from Page 1 friends to overcome the The ambassador ex- current difficulties as plained that in Chinese much as we can do, and culture, the year of 2021 then we can go back to our is the year of the Ox. “The normal lives together to Ox is known for diligence, shake hands with each strength, and determina- other, to hug each other, to tion. With this spirit, and have parties together and spirit of cooperation, I be- to enjoy our normal Fish lieve that people in China and Dragon festival to- and Barbados as well as gether.” friends all over the world Ambassador Xiusheng can finally win the war expressed the hope that against the virus and the friendship between achieve our respective China and Barbados will goals of economic and so- go deeper and last forever. cial development. “I wish all of you a harmo- “And during this nious, healthy and auspi- process, China will con- cious Year of the Ox,full of The Henan Performing Arts Troupe. tinue to help our Bajan happiness,” he said. (JH) 8 • Sunday February 14, 2021 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 Sin pondering – Part three THE song of the Psalmist: understanding and change “As far as the east is from in our lives. It was, after A social and the west so far does God all, the ‘marginals’ who remove our sin from us” prompted the Gospel. To economic dilemma (Ps. 103:12). Does that deny them is to destroy the sound like the God we’re point of faith. In Pope Treating homelessness, vagrancy during COVID-19 often warned about, a Francis’ words: “It is the wrathful and vengeful God sin of failing to respect the THIS week, local media houses shared images of a who’ll ‘get us’ if we don’t do value of a person.” Then popular street character, Ninja man aka Anthony as we’re told? How is that there’s prayer. We remind Lynch as he was “evicted” from the exterior of The God compatible with Love? ourselves that ‘God is Treasury Building. It was a place he called “home” When we sin, who do we Love’, that it’s the Divine for many years. An ironic situation as one considers let down, God or ourselves? made you, under 16, have we may believe that any who will “show me the the symbiotic relationship highlighted by the symbol Our sins, surely, dent the sexual relations with men input from us, in this or path of life” (Psalm 16:11). of money (the haves) represented by the Treasury ‘us’ we were meant to be, for gain? I’ve heard it that situation, may be We ask ourselves whether and the downtrodden (the have nots) represented by not God, the Divine at the suggested that going utterly futile so that we our souls truly thirst for Lynch.The pandemic and COVID-19 have activated back of everything. fishing on Sunday is failing become indifferent to the the “living God” (Psalm the immune response of a failing capitalist system. Yes, but do we always to keep the Sabbath ‘holy’. problems of others and end 42:2). We acknowledge It has exposed even more the inadequacies of this know when we’ve sinned? Yet surely, holiness is up shrugging our that our lives have been economic structure which seems to punish the most And do supposedly living the Gospel not living shoulders, feeling nothing, wounded by failures, that vulnerable during times of limited resources and absolute ‘don’t sin’ in a vacuum flask for a day. with a blase ‘So what?’. If we’ve missed the mark of restricted movement. commands admit of no Some sins thump us in the we’re Biblical love, our gift to the world, The homeless and the vagrants of Barbados are exceptions? Well, we know face, of course. Pushing fundamentalists, we may and enjoin healing from not a cause but an effect. If the problem is addressed that our faith tells us ‘You fake Covid vaccines is an have become acutely the very depths of being, it would illustrate Barbados’ ability to manage its belong to God, one another, obvious case, and lying judgmental of others, and from the Divine.We affirm economy efficiently and safeguard the lives of future and creation’, and that at about people. But there are justify that by reference to our love for Jesus, our generations. Barbadians should perceive COVID- root it’s ‘loving’ that’s the deeper difficulties. allegedly God dictated resurrection and life (John 19 as the ultimate test and catalyst to changing our great commandment. Over years our texts – so that nothing 11:25). We assert that we social, political, health, and economic policies. That’s easy to say, but not personalities may have could possibly be sinful in are unique expressions of However, for now,it seems that this social symptom always easy to practice. been conditioned by judging. The divine right the Divine, that we are of homelessness and vagrancy is just another stain, Our ‘neighbour’, over experiences. We may have to judge follows from being “wondrously made”. We a nuisance which at this time will be ignored. But like years, may have shown become narcissistic so that able to read, and nothing listen for our inner voice, all conditions, it will continue to grow until it becomes himself determined to everything centres on us. more. And in all or any of the kind and loving voice critical if not terminal. make our lives a misery. The only news that’s good that, we may yet assert which is ever ours. We There are five key reasons for homelessness – lack The putative refugee may news is if it’s good for us. that ‘God is Love’ and so remember the penitent of affordable housing, unemployment, poverty, be intent on poisoning our Or it may be psychological make ourselves hypocrites thief, the Patron of mental illness and inadequate support system, and wells. Why should we myopia when we see only of the first order. We may Sinners. The rest follows. substance abuse, and the lack of needed services. welcome him? Yes, and what we want to see. And have no inkling Go safely then – until Three of these factors are focused on the economy,the though it’s directed to the again, life may have played whatsoever that we’re the next time. other two on the social support framework. People Old Testament ‘chosen’, so many tricks on us that deeply flawed are considered to be capital, an investment, a how do you ‘honour’ a we’ve become deeply personalities. An overture, from the commodity with an expiration date. With the value father who abandoned you pessimistic and complain What to do? It’s partly a boundary:“The recognition of one’s head depreciated due to the effects of COVID- when you were a child and about everything. In the matter of remembering – of sin is the beginning of 19, everyone is at the breaking point.What separates has never bothered with end we see nothing but that it’s those most in need salvation” (Martin anyone from living on the streets, a missed payday, you since, or a mother who ourselves.Yes, and again who are the catalyst for Luther). a natural or man-made disaster, a moment of weakness for substance, an accident, a bout of illness, or a mental breakdown? The homelessness situation is invisible.How is this White House cites ‘deep concerns’ about WHO so? Look for the latest statistics on the homeless community on the island or the region, it cannot be COVID report, demands early data from China found. Why? It is not profitable. The day must come when governments understand that the invisible WASHINGTON – The WHO Director-General strongly denies. security advisers on people harassed, neglected, abused, locked up, and White House on Saturday Tedros Adhanom Sullivan noted that US Saturday, a White House forgotten are human beings and they have the right called on China to make Ghebreyesus on Friday President Joe Biden had official said. China refused to a decent life. available data from the said all hypotheses are still quickly reversed the to give raw data on early People who are deemed vagrants or homeless need earliest days of the open about the origins of decision to disengage from COVID-19 cases to the access to food, water, healthcare, social and mental COVID-19 outbreak, COVID-19, after the WHO, but said it was WHO-led team probing the health services, and shelter.While critics may argue saying it has “deep Washington said it wanted imperative to protect the origins of the pandemic, some of these people are drug users, abusers, and concerns” about the way to review data from a organisation’s credibility. according to one of the lawbreakers, they did not begin their lives this way. the findings of the World WHO-led mission to “Re-engaging the WHO team’s investigators, Finland, the only country in the European Union Health Organisation’s China, where the virus also means holding it to the potentially complicating (EU) with a decreasing homelessness rate is proving COVID-19 report were first emerged. highest standards,” efforts to understand how this demographic deserves a second chance. communicated. A WHO-led mission, Sullivan said. “We have the outbreak began. In the Constitution of Finland, it is stipulated that White House national which spent four weeks in deep concerns about the The team had requested public authorities promote the right of everyone to security adviser Jake China looking into the way in which the early raw patient data on 174 housing and Finnish citizens have the right to Sullivan said in a origins of the COVID-19 findings of the COVID-19 cases that China had support and care. The European state has provided statement that it is outbreak, said this week investigation were identified from the early housing through rentals, access to shelters, and imperative that the report that it was not looking communicated and phase of the outbreak in mental health services along with food and social be independent and free further into the question of questions about the the city of Wuhan in activities. In this country about three out of four from “alteration by the whether the virus escaped process used to reach December 2019, as well as homeless individuals are male. This may be the Chinese government”, from a lab, which it them.” other cases, but were only situation in Barbados.Before the national pause,just echoing concerns raised by considered highly unlikely. Biden, who is spending provided with a summary, take a visit to Bridgetown and it would not be hard the administration of The Trump his first weekend at the Dominic Dwyer,an to find scores of homeless men in Independence former President Donald administration had said it Camp David presidential Australian infectious Square, National Heroes’ Square, and Jubilee Trump, who also moved to suspected the virus may retreat in the mountains diseases expert who is a Gardens. This is just the tip of the iceberg. The quit the WHO over the have escaped from a of western Maryland, will member of the WHO team, pandemic will be the irritant that causes more people issue. Chinese lab, which Beijing meet with his national told Reuters. to face homelessness. The local government must anticipate this and focus on creating social services Telephone: 467-2000 News Fax: 434-1000 News Editor: Dorian Bryan Executive Editor: Allison Downes that help people cope with mental health issues, job E-mail Address: [email protected] Business Editor: Jewel Brathwaite General Manager: Sandra Clarke Assistant Managing Director: Sean Eteen creation, entrepreneurship and consider building Website: www.barbadosadvocate.com Sports Editor: Corey Greaves Publisher: Sir Anthony Bryan more housing for the rising vulnerable populations. @The Barbados Advocate @barbadosadvocate The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 9

So where do we go from here? WE did not have to be when the Czar ostensibly on the island? Do we know limiting the spread of the here. But we are here. returned to his previous if a particular one has been virus.This could have been Barbados is still in the duties, there was no imme- killing our people in recent addressed in the emer- midst of a lockdown which diate surge in deaths after weeks? gency legislation, but it has been made necessary his departure. Has there One cannot be but seems that nothing which by the wild and wide been a deeper change in sympathetic towards the might impact big business spread of the COVID-19 the management of the technical people who are is to be contemplated. virus across the length and pandemic that we have not dealing with the virus The new narrative is breadth of our fair and been told about? It is un- here.They are not efficient now donated vaccines once safe land.And if there fortunate that the man- and their effectiveness is from India. No considera- is any sense of responsibil- agement of this medical worsening every day, but tion is given to the fact ity left in those who ad- emergency is managed by it seems fair to say that that India has not con- minister our affairs, the politicians rather than Cubans literally saved travellers from Britain, we this is due to no fault of ducted all of the necessary current lockdown will doctors, but we have gone Italy. Italy was ground were telling them to come their own. It was not their bridging test of the vaccine have to be extended. too far down that road to zero for the virus in in larger numbers. decision to import the on its own people and In one month Barbados turn back now. This, how- Europe. Since the Cuban They came, infected us virus by the plane load, but some Indians will not use has recorded 12 deaths ever, is not a recent devel- intervention there, that and left. Did they leave they are the ones now it. Regardless, these vac- which have been attrib- opment, so one cannot at- country has completely behind a more deadly vari- tasked with trying to con- cines are experimental,the uted to the coronavirus, tribute the recent death turned around its corona ant of the virus than we trol it. Despite the totally effectiveness of the one after having about eight rate to that fact. status.The Cubans are too had on the island and irrelevant slogan of our given to us has been called months of no deaths. Are the Cuban doctors valuable a resource for us which is now killing our soldier Minister of Health, into question and a num- Something has drastically still here? It was notice- not to lean on them to the people? “No retreat, no surrender”, ber of countries have re- changed. If our managers able that when the full extent of their willing- Barbados does not have this country simply does stricted it.The best experts know, they are not saying Cubans arrived, the ness to help us. And we the capacity to sequence not have the resources to that are promoting these anything, but we have en- deaths stopped. Are they should make use of the the virus or viruses that win this war. vaccines admit that they tered a dangerous phase still managing the medical Cuban trained Barbadian we are now battling, so, ex- The results are not being know nothing about their of the pandemic. process for us? Have their doctors. cept with help from delivered in a timely fash- effects and are waiting to This sad state of affairs numbers been cut? Is the Is it possible that there abroad, we have no idea ion and our managers are see what happens to the leaves open a number of recent upsurge in deaths is a new variant of the what we are fighting not willing to wait until people that take them. We questions that beg for an- in any way connected to a virus which is resistant to against. Have we already they are known. With the are volunteering to be swers. Has the manage- change in the Cuban as- our original approach? sought that help? Do we practice of a quick return guinea pigs. So where do ment of the pandemic sistance? When the rest of the world know yet how many vari- to work being widespread, we go from here? Lord, put changed? We know that Lest we forget, the was blocking access to ants of the virus we have there is no possibility of a hand. Haiti – On the edge of disaster again HAITi – a country to Haitian government fist. In recent weeks, Police tional and political reform, which all other countries might not agree, the have fired live ammuni- including of the provi- that suffered slavery are present circumstances tion into crowds, killing sional electoral council deeply indebted – is once of the country are crying and wounding people in- (CEP) which administers again in turmoil. out for remedial action. cluding two journalists, elections. Therefore, no Caribbean Hence, CARICOM was one of whom is in a critical The much greater prob- Community (CARICOM) right, on February 11, to condition. lem is that he plans to hold country should stand issue a public statement During this,on February a referendum on April 25 aside, silently, while Haiti “encouraging all parties to 7, Moïse alleged that there on a draft constitution is sliding into further ca- engage in meaningful dia- was a plot to overthrow that his Committee has tastrophe, retarding its al- logue in the interest of him. Police arrested and drafted. Amongst other ready impoverished econ- peace and stability” and they also caused alarm he did not assume office detained 23 persons, things, the draft constitu- omy and depriving the “strongly urging that ac- among human rights until February 2017. including a former presi- tion, will set the stage for Haitian people of hope for tion be taken to foster a groups within the country In a situation in which a dential candidate, a high- Presidential and other an improved future. safe environment, a return and internationally. President’s stewardship ranking police inspector elections. The process has Of course, no country to normal life and the More recent events in has brought peace, eco- and a judge on the no credibility and no sup- should interfere in the in- building of sustainable Haiti, however, have at- nomic development and country’s highest court. port from opposition polit- ternal affairs of any other democratic institutions”. tracted strong criticism of social progress, the Additionally, Moïse, arbi- ical parties and civil rights state. CARICOM has Since October 2019, Moïse. The most com- Haitian society may have trarily sent three judges of groups and, therefore, will never done that. In the when President Jovenel pelling condemnation gone along with Moïse’s the Court of Justice on re- continue to rouse protests times when the organisa- Moïse postponed parlia- has come from seven mem- view. Unfortunately, the tirement. One of these and crowd demonstra- tion has played a role mentary and local elec- bers of the House of Repre- situation on the ground in judges was named jointly tions. in resolving political, elec- tions, there has been no sentatives of the United Haiti has been very differ- by the Opposition parties Haiti, including Presi- toral, and constitutional is- legislature in Haiti. States of America (US). In ent. Moïse was not a popu- as the “Interim President” dent Moïse, and all the sues in a CARICOM mem- The President has ruled early February,they wrote larly elected President. of Haiti – much as hap- other actors – political and ber-state, it has done so at the country by decree, con- to the Secretary of State, The 2016 elections had a pened with Venezuela’s civil – need the help of hon- the invitation of the trary to its Consti- Anthony Blinken, de- low turnout of voters. His Juan Guaidó. The US est brokers and mediators Government and other po- tution. Even at the munic- manding the departure actions, since then, espe- Embassy in Haiti issued a to help create agreed con- litical parties. This oc- ipal level, when the terms of Moïse “in accordance cially his ruling by decree, statement questioning the ditions to remedy the insti- curred most recently in of elected Mayors end, with the Haitian Con- weakened his approval merits of the action to un- tutional issues, including Guyana, where CARI- Moïse has appointed per- stitution”. still further. seat the judges. the election machinery. COM played a pivotal role sons of his own choosing. For several months, the In this atmosphere, the Several non-CARICOM Without it, the situation is in upholding democracy Further, in the absence contention has been made country slipped into law- countries, looking for a so- Haiti will worsen. and ensuring the credible of a legislature which, by political and civil rights lessness – some of it al- lution to the current prob- No country or organisa- result of elections. under the Constitution, is groups in Haiti, that in legedly engendered by lem, are doing what they tion can impose itself to as- Non-interference in the required to approve ap- conformity with the Con- Moïse’s ruling party. usually do – focussing on sist Haiti. The Haitian internal affairs of a state pointments to independ- stitution, the President’s Kidnappings and killings Presidential elections to players must invite such should not be construed as ent institutions and law term ended on February 7 haunted rich and poor end the conflict. help. Until they do so, all approval. And, when con- enforcement agencies, in- – five years after the last alike, and marauding The problem is that organisations, including ditions reach the point of cluding the Police, Presi- elections in November gangs ruled districts driv- there is no credible elec- CARICOM and the loss of lives, the least that dent Moïse has unilater- 2016. He has contended ing fear into communities. tion machinery in Haiti, Organisation of American friendly states should do ally installed favoured that, notwithstanding the Massacres occurred in including no up-to-date States should express is to offer to help to bring persons. position stated in the neighbourhoods where op- and verifiable electoral their concerns and stand about peace and to assist For over a year,these cir- Constitution about the life position to Moïse is strong. list. What is more, Moïse ready to be helpful to the in resolving the issues that cumstances have infuri- of the President’s term, he All this led to street appointed a Committee of people of Haiti who de- are causing violence and ated opposition parties as is entitled to remain in of- protests which the govern- his associates to make rec- serve the chance for a destruction. While the would be expected, but fice for another year, since ment met with an iron ommendations on institu- better life. 10 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate A new US initiative for the Caribbean is needed WHEN the economies of “rebuilding the muscle” of led post-pandemic especially during a the Caribbean and Central Washington’s democratic initiative with its genesis pandemic, corporate America finally exit the alliances and intends in the region is required. boards are reluctant to pandemic, most will be in finding common solutions “There needs to be a authorise such activity. crisis. As a recent IMF to common problems. coming together of the best That said, it is not hard review of The Bahamas “There’s no longer a private sector leaders from to identify individuals put it, recovery to pre- bright line between foreign all sides. The Caribbean among today’s Caribbean pandemic levels ‘will likely and domestic policy”…. and Central America must and Central American take years’ and the “the US cannot afford to be build its own advocacy and private sector leaders who ‘downside risks loom large’. absent any longer on the constituency in are thoughtful, successful, The same prognosis is world stage”, he told US Washington, but the outward looking, run expected to apply to diplomats in a speech at impulse must first come businesses that are virtually every nation in the State Department. from the region”, Peter invested in the US, the the region other than those “When we invest in and executive branches of brought together and took Johnson, CCAA’s first region and elsewhere, with new-found oil and economic development of the US government and to the White House small Executive Director understand the value of mineral reserves. So much countries, we create new ensue that there is groups of US and regional recently told me. lobbying, and have close so that the IMF suggests it markets for our products substantive Caribbean business leaders and with He feels that recovery contact with legislators of will be as late as 2023 and reduce the likelihood participation in the CEO their support went on to from the pandemic poses regional heritage in the US when output recovers, and of instability,violence, and summit that will significantly influence US many of the same Congress. 2025 when per capita GDP mass migrations”. accompany the US-led policy though ideas, problems, and that a small What is so far missing rebounds and pre- In the coming months, government encounter. initiatives, events such as high-level group of private and now much needed is a pandemic levels of these themes will be Unfortunately, having the annual Miami sector leaders from the well-connected US private employment, production, fleshed out in an the regions corporate voice conference, and regional Caribbean and Central sector leader and a and the revenues hemispheric context. heard in a sustained dialogues that promoted America should be meeting convener who understand necessary to underwrite Already, Washington’s manner is no longer practical solutions that now with their US the importance of the social provision are think tanks and lobbyists straightforward. There is governments, agencies and counterparts. mutually reinforcing restored. are seeking to inform the no obvious private sector institutions were able to Developing a 21st economic relations.That is, In response, some in the policy announcements that led institution in support. century US initiative for someone with political region have called for a are expected to be made at Washington related In the US it resulted in the Caribbean Basin “will reach who can explain how modern equivalent of the April’s virtual Summit of exclusively promoting a the shaping of the take vision and courage”, a new business related 1948 Marshall Plan which the Americas. hands-on Caribbean and Caribbean Basin Initiative he says, and will need new initiative for the Caribbean saw the US transfer Governments in the Central American agenda. and then the legislating of players with an interest in and Central America billions of government Caribbean and Central In the 1980s, the US- the Caribbean Basin positive economic might address both dollars to Western Europe America, close to the new Caribbean Basin private Economic Recovery Act, outcomes for the region. He growth, investment, trade to support post war administration are also sector relationship was while in Europe near also advocates involving and employment and the recovery,and as a bulwark making suggestions. catalysed by Caribbean parallel representations by the US Congressional Biden Administration’s against the then Soviet What is missing is the Central American Action key Caribbean sector Caucus on the Caribbean, wider concerns about Union. voice of private sector (CCAA). At the time, actors influenced the based on its strong migration, global warming, In some respects, the leaders in the Caribbean, President Carter and then negotiation of pathways diaspora ties. security, and US domestic parallels are close – the Central America, and the President Reagan had out of preference and the In the past, when economic recovery. Caribbean and Central US who in the real world come to recognise that a creation of treaties and corporate leadership was David Jessop is a America form a vital will have to drive post part of the answer to their agreements that provided largely exercised across the consultant to the element of US national pandemic economic security concerns lay in private sector related Caribbean and Central Caribbean Council and security – but in others, recovery. stimulating regional support. America by family- can be contacted at they are not, as today most Put bluntly, this is the economic development and Despite CCAA being no controlled businesses, the david.jessop@caribbe western governments moment when influential creating new employment. more and the world being value of investing time and an-council.org regard the private sector private sector leaders from Both administrations very different, those who resource in strategic Previous columns can as the principal driver of the region and the US understood that if this fashioned these original lobbying was more easily be found at sustainable growth. should be doing more.They were to happen, business private sector initiatives achieved. Today, finding https://www.caribbean- President Biden recently need to make their voice leaders had to be involved. believe this is the moment champions is less easy council.org/research- indicated that he intends heard by the legislative Responding, CCAA when a new private sector when for the most part, analysis/ COVID-19 poses increased risk to women THE Pan American Health director added that as with eat and to feed our by the social and economic PAHO suggests that the to do as it will help to save Organisation (PAHO) has other diseases, men often families,” said the director. impacts of this virus. responses to dealing with lives, protect the health acknowledged the delayed seeking help, Dr. Etienne added that Women are invariably gender dynamics starts systems and recover the increased impact which the leaving them more pregnant women, whose caretakers across our with ensuring that women economies of the region COVID-19 pandemic has vulnerable to serious immune systems change region and as schools closed and girls can access the faster. “And as we recover been having on women and COVID illness that throughout the course of and lockdowns were health services that they and rebuild from this global has made recommenda- required hospitalisation. their pregnancies, are more imposed, the burden of care need during this crisis.This crisis, we urge countries to tions to protect them. “Today, some of these susceptible to respiratory has fallen on mothers and includes gender violence develop policies not for This sentiment was trends are reversing. infections, like COVID-19 grandmothers alike. hotlines and sexual and women but by women, with expressed during the Across every age group, especially if they are older, “Many women have been reproductive health the full involvement of weekly press briefing for men and women are just overweight, or have forced to leave their jobs to services, which are women by employing the health agency, by as likely to become infected existing medical conditions. care for their families essential services. By women in their pandemic Director of PAHO, Dr. with COVID-19. Women, She stated that ironically, during this pandemic, leveraging telehealth, planning and placing them Carissa F Etienne who who make up 70 per cent of as countries began impacting both their leaning on community at the centre of recovery,” highlighted that earlier in the health workers of the reporting COVID-19 income and their well- health workers and proposed Dr. Etienne. the pandemic men were world, have faced outbreaks, maternal, new- being and the ongoing stay- making care available The director also put more likely to become sick enormous personal risk to born, and child services at-home measures, coupled outside of hospital settings, forward that women are with COVID-19. She care for COVID patients, were often the first to be with the added economic health systems can ensure some of our most powerful explained that there were even when they had little suspended as health strains, are increasing the that women receive the leaders, leading scientists, many reasons for this as protective equipment at workers were reassigned to risks of domestic violence. care that they deserve. best health workers and men were more likely to their disposal. The women the pandemic response and For too many women, home As limited COVID-19 most effective comm- hold jobs that left them who staff nursing homes, clinics were repurposed to is not a safe space. The vaccines arrive across the unicators. Remarking that exposed to the virus and daycare centres and care for COVID patients. pandemic is exacerbating region, countries must also the region needed their more likely to suffer from grocery stores have been on The PAHO head also gender inequities and to prioritise these early doses help to ensure underlying conditions, like the frontlines of this virus noted that beyond the overcome this pandemic, for the elderly and health communities are diabetes and hypertension as they cared for our unique health risks women countries must recognise workers, many of whom are adequately supported and that made them more elderly, educated our face with COVID-19, and respond to the gender women.Vaccinating health prepared as the susceptible to severe children and continued to women are also dynamics of this outbreak,” workers first is both the immunisation campaigns COVID infections. The work so we all had food to disproportionately affected remarked Dr. Etienne. right and the smart thing begin. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 11

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ADVOCATE PUBLISHERS (2000) INC, FONTABELLE • FAX: 434-1000 • E-MAIL: [email protected] Reparations, Part 3 – Graduation THIS is the final article prioritise His business, unfair, kind and unredeemable, tend to response. For my made after the court on this three-part treat our fellow students oppressive, helpful and become oppressors. enslaved fore-parents, hears both sides. If the Reparations series. The the way we want to be harmful, and pleasant There is a special who spent generations court decides that no first two were evidence- treated, and practise new and distasteful. None of judgement for our fellow in slavery, there was reparations are due, and based research articles. responsibilities until them should hinder our students, who use their no end to their confirms that decision on This one includes my they become second- progress. positions of authority to bondage. Therefore, for appeal, then that option personal opinion on nature. Harmful situations are oppress people. them to forgive is closed. The remaining reparations. It is based to be expected, because We are not to fear them, required extraordinary option is through on my understanding FAILURE we continually interact because theirs is the strength. negotiation. Negotiating after spending over We learn by failure. So, with our fellow students, most hazardous During my life, I do not an agreement, means half a century on this we will fail for as long as who are also learning by occupation imaginable. want to be hindered by that both sides must planet. we learn – that is life. failure. Leaders who maintain the bitterness and hatred agree. In my opinion, this life What we do, or fail to do, power by keeping that unforgiveness I will not hinder those is like a school. We enter can have a spaghetti of OPPRESSORS others down, should normally attracts. Since I who need my agreement, at birth, leave at death, harmful consequences At the end of life, we will understand that they are am a leader, I want to to increase their chances and are examined for that we may never know be examined for after-life only condemning avoid the risk of of obtaining reparations. employment at during life. responsibilities. themselves. oppressing others. However, that agreement resurrection. During life, Therefore, we ask our Forgiving our fellow Therefore, I have chosen is on the singular we learn to: develop a common Creator for students and helping REPARATIONS the way of forgiveness. I condition that if they are relationship with our forgiveness, which He them improve, helps The decision to forgive choose to trust God, who successful, they should Creator, love our fellow has promised to give to prepare us for fulfilling others is a personal one. is love and just, to sort deduct any amount due students, and do our the same measure that after-life responsibilities. Immediately following a things out in accordance me, and return it. Why? responsibilities at an we give our fellow Those who do not do so, period of horrific with His vengeance and Because I have forgiven expert level. students. risk permanent bondage, it may seem mercy. all parties, beneficiaries, Our learning paths As we progress unemployment. inappropriate to even and their descendants may differ. However, we through life, we will Leaders who refuse to mention forgiveness, AGREEMENT entirely and completely, should aim to receive encounter all types of forgive others, and which may trigger an Persons may pursue because that is God’s forgiveness and situations: fair and condemn them as emotionally traumatic reparations justice how I want God to through a court of law. forgive me. This allows a GRENVILLE Of Corona virus, lockdowns determination to be PHILLIPS II and heeding good advice From or with IT is not difficult to To say that a section of Significantly enough, There is no doubt that FROM time to time the As I understand it understand how the the society was there was repetition of a the handling of the communication about common comorbid Minister of Health feels responsible for the statement to the effect Corona pandemic in the the course of the Covid- conditions may include about the spike up of increase in positive that government was initial stages was 19 spread in Barbados heart disease, positive cases and Covid cases may very following the advice of commendable, but the refers to comorbidity as hypertension, deaths from the effects well be true. the World Health failure to heed critical part of the diagnosis of respiratory disease, joint of the Corona virus. However, during the Organisation and the bits of advice could have patients. disease, diabetes, He will also be on good early period of the Pan American Health prevented a second I am told that cerebrovascular, mental grounds to extend the pandemic, the Organisation though, lockdown that has comorbidity means more health problems length of the lockdown in authorities refused to there was respect and been euphemistically than one illness or (including dementia) and order to maintain a heed advice from the appreciation for what called a “national disease occurring in one others. measure of control Barbados Association of BAMP had to say. pause”. person at the same time My question relates to over a deteriorating Medical Practitioners, After the variant was “A stitch in time saves and multimorbidity the cause of death and situation. including a private discovered, it is also nine” is still useful more than two illnesses whether a distinction is However, the Minister medical practitioner quite possible that a ban advice today,as it was in or diseases occurring in currently made between should not have done as appearing on WhatsApp on air-traffic out of the 1732 when first the same person at the someone dying others have done by videos pleading with the United Kingdom could published by British same time. It is also from Covid-19 or pointing fingers and authorities to place (at have had a positive effect physician Thomas Fuller observed that older someone dying with engaging in the “blame least) a temporary on reducing the number in his book of proverbs people tend to Covid-19? game” – two useless ban on flights out of the of positive Covid cases and wise sayings. suffer from MICHAEL exercises. UK. and deaths. MICHAEL RAY multimorbidity. RUDDER

LET GOD QUOTES FOR TODAY WORDS OF SPEAK TO US WISDOM Benjamin Disraeli Sir William Osler “For the desires of the flesh (1804 - 1881) (1849 - 1919) are against the Spirit, and the British politician British (Canadian-born) KNOWLEDGE desires of the Spirit are against physician the flesh, for these are “Cleanliness and order are not opposed to each other, to keep matters of instinct; they are “Live neither in the past nor you from doing the things you matters of education, and like Knowledge is the only in the future, but let each want to do.” most great things, you must instrument of production cultivate a taste for them.” day's work absorb your entire that is not subject to – Galatians 5:17 - ESV energies, and satisfy your diminishing returns. widest ambition.” 12 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

China records steady tablet shipment growth CHINA’S tablet com- tablet market will not sus- puter shipments tain the growth momen- reached around 6.14 tum for long as it faces stiff million units during competition from laptop the fourth quarter of and smartphone markets, 2020, up 5.6 per cent the report said. year on year, an indus- Unlike the global tablet trial report said. computer market, the However, the growth recovery of the Chinese rate was lower than that of market was not solely the global market during driven by the increasing the same period, a report demand amid the COVID- from the global market in- 19 epidemic, said the telligence firm Inter- report. national Data Corporation The Chinese market will showed. continue to maintain its The recovery in the growth momentum amid global tablet market last vigorous development of year was driven by un- domestic online education Visitors view tablet devices of Huawei during 2019 China International Consumer Electronics Show precedented consumer and rising entertainment (SINOCES) in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province, July 20, 2019. and educational demand demand such as audio-vi- as people worked from sual games. Chinese market with a 43- units. with 1.65 million ship- ments of 320,000 units home and took courses on- In the fourth quarter of per cent market share by China’s tech giant ments, followed by Lenovo and 130,000 units, respec- line. However, the global last year, Apple led the shipping 2.64 million Huawei ranked second and Microsoft with ship- tively, the report said.

Internet use among older adults increases in China BEIJING – As access to the internet continues to grow across China, an increasing number of older adults are now online, according to a recent report on China’s internet develop- ment. The report, released by the China Internet Network Information Center, found that by December last year, about 26.3 per cent of the total online population in Young volunteers teach seniors how to use smartphones at a community centre in Taiyuan, Shanxi province. China were aged 50 or above, while the figure in According to the report, per cent of Chinese neti- per cent and 18.8 per cent internet users hit 989 of 85.4 million from March was about 16.9 per people in their 30s ac- zens and those in their of the total, respectively. million by the end March 2020, according to cent. counted for about 20.5 20s and 40s made up 17.8 The number of Chinese of last year, an increase the report. WHO team on COVID-19 virus origins to publish reports soon GENEVA– An independ- virtual press conference released publicly,” he said. WHO experts and those of Tedros said, noting that The WHO chief ex- ent expert team to study that the team has com- The international team, the Food and Agriculture some of that work may lie plained that the mission the origins of the COVID- pleted its trip to China, having finished their work Organisation of the United outside the remit and achieved a better under- 19 virus is working on a and their full final report in Wuhan of China earlier Nations and the World scope of this mission. standing of the early days summary report expected will be published in the this week, comprises ex- Organization for Animal “We have always said of the pandemic, and iden- to be published this week, coming weeks. perts from Australia, Den- Health. that this mission would tified areas for further said Tedros Adhanom “This has been a very mark, Germany, Japan, “Having spoken with not find all the answers, analysis and research, and Ghebreyesus,director-gen- important scientific exer- the Netherlands, Qatar, some members of the but it has added important the WHO will continue eral of the World Health cise in very difficult Russia, Britain, the United team, I wish to confirm information that takes us working to get the infor- Organisation (WHO), on circumstances. We look States and Vietnam, ac- that all hypotheses remain closer to understanding mation needed to answer Friday. forward to receiving both cording to the WHO chief. open and require further the origins of the virus,” he the questions that still The WHO chief told a reports, which will be The team also includes analysis and studies,” added. need to be answered. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 13

All aboard for safer, smarter train travel E-TICKETS and meal- have been urged to avoid their ID cards to board a “Since the new facility dispensing cabinets are unnecessary travel and train without the need for was introduced, passen- easing holiday journeys stay where they live and a paper ticket. Foreigners gers no longer need to pick Although train trips are work to celebrate the festi- can use the same system up paper tickets,” said expected to drop during val. to buy tickets, but usually Zhang Yujing from the sta- this year’s Spring Festival The festival began on have to present their pass- tion’s publicity office. travel rush because of the Friday. The 40-day travel ports to staff members for “Time has been saved recent cluster of COVID-19 rush started on Jan 28 and verification. and the process has been cases and the authorities’ will end on March 8. Early At Nanjing South and reduced. After purchasing encouragement for people travel statistics show that Shanghai Hongqiao rail- an e-ticket, passengers can to stay put, railway opera- this year’s train trips have way stations, foreign pas- use their ID card to board tors are still busy trying to already dropped compared sengers with an e-ticket a train and alight at their provide safe, comfortable with a year ago. can scan their passports at destination. Under epi- quality services for cus- From Jan 28 to 30, the a machine to board. demic control measures, tomers. number of passenger trips If travellers require the decrease in face-to-face Spring Festival is the decreased more than 70 paper tickets to have the contact makes passengers most important period for perc ent year-on-year, ac- cost of the trip reimbursed, feel safer and more com- family reunions in China cording to the China State they can use their ID cards fortable.” and it usually leads to huge Railway Group, the na- to pick them up at ticket Zhang said that in the holiday traffic, and the tional railway operator. machines or windows. past, after buying an e- travel rush is regarded as By the end of last year,e- ticket, passengers usually the world’s largest annual Easy tickets ticket services were in use had to pick it up at the rail- A passenger prepares to scan her ID card at human migration. In 2019, Electronic ticketing is in 2,878 railway stations, way station and then line Hangzhou South Railway Station in Zhejiang nearly 3 billion passenger available in most railway covering 99 per cent of rail- up to have it verified at a province on Feb 2. trips were made during the stations across the country, way passengers, according ticket-checking gate. 40-day travel period, simi- which has increased to the China State Railway During peak periods, pas- Zhang Lin, who travelled “In the past, I lined up to lar to the previous year. efficiency and promoted Group. sengers were usually lined from Xi’an Railway Station pick up paper tickets, However, this year is dif- service that doesn’t require In June, Xi’an Railway up and it took at least five to Yulin,Shaanxi province, lined up to enter the rail- ferent. To curb a resur- direct human contact. Station upgraded its facil- minutes to pass the gate. on Feb 2 said scanning her way station and lined up to gence in the spread of the After purchasing an e- ities to start accepting and “Now, it takes a few sec- ID card to board a train is pass a security check,” she novel coronavirus, people ticket, travellers can scan processing e-tickets. onds,” she said. much more convenient. said. Palace museum exhibition echoes new year blessing AT Spring Festival, “jixi- lingzhi mushrooms, both ang ruyi “is a blessing you auspicious totems in will hear all day. In Chinese culture. Chinese, it means “wish- “As a physical reflection ing you auspicious times of (Lunar) New Year bless- and that everything goes ings, ruyi will usher people as hoped”. to have a better under- There are so many ruyi, standing of our traditional a kind of decorative scep- culture for celebration,” tre, in a gallery at the Ren Wanping, deputy Palace Museum in Beijing, director of the Palace also known as the Museum, said at a media Forbidden City, that it preview of the exhibition must be a place of extraor- on Tuesday. dinarily good fortune. “People have more and The special three-month more mascots now, and the exhibition at the cultural significance of Journalists and guests take a peek at the Auspicious Wishes: Ruyi Scepters in the Palace Museum Shenwumen (Gate of ruyi is gradually being for- Collection exhibition at the Palace Museum in Beijing on Tuesday. Divine Prowess) Gallery – gotten by the general pub- Auspicious Wishes: Ruyi lic in modern times,” she and Qing (1644-1911) dy- The gallery is in Yonghe Dynasty showcase cross- morning and 2,000 in the Scepters in the Palace said.“However,the beauti- nasties, particularly on Gong (the Palace of cultural communication. afternoon – with all reser- Museum Collection – ful wishes and the state- festivals, birthdays and Eternal Harmony) on the “Hopefully,this heritage vations made through the opened to the public on of-the-art craftsmanship weddings, as many were eastern side of the can still contribute to museum’s online plat- Wednesday ahead of the they represent deserve to paid as tributes to the Forbidden City. the development of tradi- forms. Year of the Ox. It is the be inherited through the royal court from all over From an exquisitely de- tional Chinese medicine Official statistics show first major exhibition generations.” the country. signed, 400-odd-year-old today,” said Guan Xueling, there were just 3.58 mil- launched at the museum Ruyi used to be paw- “Through the artifacts, cabinet holding herbal a researcher with the mu- lion visits to the Palace this year. shaped and were first used people may have a glimpse medicines, documents seum’s department of Museum last year, a huge About 150 ruyi – made as back-scratchers in an- of how the royal families and seals of the imperial palace life and imperial drop from the record- of wood, bamboo, gold, jade cient China, according to celebrated Spring Festival hospitals, to handwritten ritual. setting 19.3 million in and other materials – Zhang Linjie, an associate during the imperial years,” prescriptions for curing The fight against the on- 2019, due to the impact of have been selected for the researcher with the mu- Zhang said. emperors and empresses, going pandemic is still COVID-19, which led to a exhibition from the ap- seum’s department of ob- One of the biggest the exhibition gives a having an impact on the 98-day closure of the mu- proximately 2,000 such jects and decorative arts. Lunar New Year wishes panoramic view of how Palace Museum. For ex- seum and strict control of items in the Forbidden But they were widely ad- that people may have is to the medical system oper- ample, to contain the visitor numbers. City’s inventory. It was mired by literati and be- beat the COVID-19 pan- ated in the Forbidden spread of novel coron- However, the operators China’s imperial palace came an indoor decoration demic. Coincidentally or City. avirus, there will be a daily of the country’s most-vis- from 1420 to 1911. in the Song Dynasty (960- not, a new regular gallery Some samples of cap on the number of visi- ited museum have kept The decorative curved 1279). will open at the museum Western medicines, med- tors to the ruyi exhibition. looking for more ways to objects have long S-shaped They became indispen- on Wednesday showcasing ical equipment and even Up to 5,000 people will extend the reach of its col- handles, often with heads sable royal amulets dur- 90 medicine-related cul- an anatomical microscope be allowed in the gallery lections during the holiday resembling clouds and ing the Ming (1368-1644) tural relics. from the late Qing each day – 3,000 in the via cyberspace. 14 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Bahamas receives PPE donation from Qatar NASSAU, Bahamas – The Gulf State The PPE supplies, which were of Qatar has made a significant purchased from Bahamian medical donation to the government of The supplies vendor, Ports International, will Bahamas, in an effort to help the be distributed to frontline health country in the fight the COVID-19 workers across the public health system. pandemic. The donation resulted from The donation of personal protective collaboration between the Ministry of equipment (PPE) valued at US$150 000 Disaster Preparedness, Management was tagged as a demonstration of the and Reconstruction, through the Qatar Government’s deep appreciation National Emergency Management for those who serve on the front lines of Agency and the Ministry of Health and Healthcare workers dispose of their personal protective equipment (PPE) the fight against the global coronavirus its partner the Public Hospitals outside one of the temporary wards dedicated to the treatment of possible pandemic, and its commitment to Authority through the Emergency COVID-19 coronavirus patients at the Nasrec Field Hospital in Soweto, on provide assistance to those in need. Operations Centre. January 25, 2021. Foreign minister reports progress in Shiprider talks with US MINISTER of Foreign Affairs and agreement which was initiated in 1998 Foreign Trade Senator Kamina Johnson to partner with the United States in Smith informed the Senate yesterday countering illegal drug trafficking by sea that progress is being made in in the region. discussions with United States The attorney general and director of authorities on Jamaica’s request for new public prosecution, supported by an protocols to protect Jamaican seafarers interministerial technical team, detained under the Shiprider convened a meeting with senior US Agreement. officials on January 6 this year to further “With this latest round of exchanges review the operational procedures now concluded, both sides have found associated with implementation of the agreement on the majority of the agreement. proposed protocols. A meeting is now Senator Johnson Smith told the being scheduled between the parties to Senate then that, while US iron out the handful of issues where representatives had apologised for the there still remains a difference of discrepancies to fulfil some of the opinion,” Senator Johnson Smith said in requirements of the agreement involving a statement to the Senate. another vessel – Lady Lawla – which She added that timely responses and was detained last year, Jamaica wanted constructive engagement have to complete the work on the new maintained the spirit of co-operation protocols that it had proposed to protect between the parties “and have provided the rights of the Jamaican sea crews. some optimism that we will finalise She said the Government was aware these protocols within a reasonably short that the proposals, which required wide period of time”. consultations among US stakeholders, In 2019, following claims of the could not all be implemented at the same mistreatment of five Jamaican time. However, the treatment of the fishermen by the US Coast Guard for issues involving The Lawla had not been allegedly trafficking drugs aboard a in keeping with the conditions of the Jamaican-owned vessel – The Jossette – 1997 Shiprider Agreement, or the Senator Johnson Smith had assured the Maritime Drug Trafficking Suppression Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Senate that Government would be Act which came into being in 1998, which Johnson Smith. seeking a review of the protocols of the she described as the critical elements. Haiti envoy calls for international support to help resolve political conflict IN hopes of resolving a constitutional Edmond also said that Moise is a crisis in Haiti, the nation’s ambassador to “legitimate president” and that “the the United States has requested on international community has to support Thursday for the international him, accompany him, so we can carry out community’s help to support talks the electoral process”. between President Jovenel Moise’s “I believe the international community, government and the opposition. our international partners, should work There has been an on-going dispute with us and with the opposition parties to between Moise’s administration and the make sure that we come to some kind of opposition on when the president’s term dialogue or political agreement, so we can should end. have a better way to move forward,” Tensions erupted over the weekend Edmond said. after Moise claimed of an attempt to Meanwhile, Haiti’s opposition claims President Jovenel Moise overthrow his government. A total of 23 Moise should step down as his five-year people were arrested, including a term in office expired on February 7 after year. In an announcement reported by the Supreme Court judge and a senior police being elected in 2015, and his win was The U.S. government appeared to Caribbean National Weekly, the official. disputed and the result “cancelled by the support Moise’s timeline, saying that a government of Cayman islands is set to According to a Reuters report, Moise’s electoral council.” new leader should replace Moise in issue a proclamation to dissolve its term comes to a close in February 2022 Moise has rejected the said claims. He February 2022. Parliament and to Ambassador Bocchit Edmond, argued that he took power in February Meanwhile, elections in Cayman The Governor of the Cayman Islands, there is no valid reason on why the 2017 following the elections in 2016, which Islands has been decided on April 14, one Martyn Roper said Parliament will be president has to leave before the said date. he won and has pledged to step down next month earlier than previously planned. dissolved on February 14. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 15

US to allow in thousands of asylum seekers waiting in Mexico THE Biden were being heard by US administration says it immigration courts. will start gradually However, on his first day allowing into the US in office since winning last tens of thousands of year’s election, President asylum seekers Joe Biden suspended the currently forced to wait policy. in Mexico. “As President Biden has It says it will begin next made clear, the US week processing about government is committed 25 000 people with active to rebuilding a safe, orderly, cases. and humane immigration Asylum seekers will first system,” Homeland be required to register and Security Secretary pass a Covid-19 test, before Alejandro Mayorkas said. being allowed in via one of “This latest action is three border crossings. another step in our Some of the asylum seekers have been waiting for months in Mexico for their cases to be heard by US The move reverses the commitment to reform courts. much-criticised policies of immigration policies that ex-President Donald do not align with our asylum seekers will be further instructions and “Honestly, I have no crime rates. Trump. nation’s values.” released with notices to not travel to the border”, words for how I’m feeling Last year, charity The Migrant Protection The Biden appear in court in cities amid concerns that many right now!” Salvadoran Human Rights First said Protocols programme was administration plans to close to or in their final people would try to cross asylum seeker Sandra “returned families, children enacted in 2019, deterring start with two border destinations, typically with the border illegally. Andrade, who has been and adults are being sent to would-be asylum seekers crossings each processing family. Friday’s announcement waiting in Mexico for over a highly dangerous from coming to the US. up to 300 people a day and At the same time, was welcomed in a year, told Reuters news situations where many It required migrants a third crossing taking Mayorkas stressed that sprawling migrant camp in agency. suffered kidnappings, entering through the fewer numbers, according “individuals who are not the Mexican city of The border cities where attacks, sexual assaults, southern border to wait in to the Associated Press. eligible under this initial Matamoros,just across the migrants wait for months threats and other Mexico while their cases The authorities say phase should wait for border from Texas. are suffering from growing incredible cruelty”.

Brazil governors seek own vaccine supplies as stocks run low

SAO PAULO, Brazil – Brazilian state governors are pursuing their own vaccine supply plans, with some expressing concern that President Jair Bolsonaro’s government won’t deliver the shots required to avoid interrupting immunisation efforts. Governors are under pressure from mayors, some of whose vaccine stocks have already been depleted, including three cities in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro. North-eastern Bahia state’s capital Salvador suspended vaccination on Thursday because supplies are dwindling. Brazil’s two biggest cities, Rio and Sao Paulo, are expected to be Doses of AstraZeneca vaccines for COVID-19 sit in vials at the Fiocruz Foundation after being bottled in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Friday, without shots in a matter February 12, 2021. of days. The governor who has 100 million CoronaVac administration purchased told The Associated Press Bolsonaro’s Brazil. pushed hardest to shore up shots from Chinese and watching as other in an interview. He added administration has a deal Brazil’s government last his state’s own vaccine pharmaceutical company nations began immunising that he is negotiating for for 100 million month contracted for 46 supply during the Sinovac and said the their citizens while Brazil’s 20 million more doses and, AstraZeneca doses, but million CoronaVac shots pandemic is Sao Paulo’s federal government 210 million people were on if the federal government only two million of them from Sao Paulo, of which João Doria, a former wouldn’t buy them. hold. doesn’t buy them, he could have arrived, with more nearly 10 million have so Bolsonaro ally turned Bolsonaro reversed “If it weren’t for this sell them to other expected only in March, far been delivered, and is adversary. The president course in January, facing (CoronaVac) shot, Brazil governors. “It is not for a according to Fiocruz, the under pressure to sign repeatedly criticised delay in the delivery of the today would be a country state government to secure Rio-based laboratory that another deal for 54 million Doria’s deal to purchase only vaccine his without vaccines,” Doria vaccines, but here we are.” will produce the shots in more. 16 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Strong quake hits off Japan coast, injuring dozens and triggering blackouts IWAKI, Japan – A strong A Reuters cameraman earthquake hit off the on location in Fukushima coast of eastern Japan yes- said his 10th floor hotel terday, injuring dozens of room shook for some time. people and triggering One man at the hotel was widespread power out- taken to hospital after ages, but there appeared falling and hitting his to be no major damage head on a door, the cam- and no tsunami warning eraman said. was issued. Although injured, the The earthquake had a man was still able to walk, 7.3 magnitude and its epi- the cameraman said. centre was off the coast of Television footage also Fukushima prefecture at showed broken glass from a depth of 60 km (36 shop fronts. miles), the Japan Some 950,000 house- Meteorological Agency holds were initially with- said. It shook buildings for out power, government some time after it hit, spokesman Katsunobu shortly after 11:00 p.m. Kato told a briefing car- (1400 GMT). ried on public broadcaster Houses and offices in NHK. The blackouts ap- A liquor shop’s manager clears the damaged bottles following an earthquake in Fukushima, northeastern the capital Tokyo, hun- peared to be concentrated Japan Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021. The Japan Meteorological Agency says a strong earthquake has hit off the dreds of kilometres away, in northeast Japan, in- coast of northeastern Japan, shaking Fukushima, Miyagi and other areas. also swayed and shook. No cluding Fukushima and tsunami warning had neighbouring prefectures. Electric Power Company irregularities at the northeast Japan and trig- Earthquakes are com- been issued, the meteoro- There were no irregular- Holdings said. Onagawa nuclear facility. gered a massive tsunami mon in Japan, one of the logical agency said. ities at the Fukushima The utility also said The quake hit off of leading to the world’s world’s most seismically At least two dozen peo- Daiichi and Daini nuclear there was no change in the Fukushima just weeks be- worst nuclear crisis in a active areas. Japan ac- ple were injured, accord- power plants, or at the radiation levels around its fore the 10th anniversary quarter of a century - one counts for about 20% of ing to reports from the Kahiwazaki-Kariwa nu- plants. of a quake on March 11, centred at the Daiichi fa- the world’s earthquakes of Kyodo news agency. clear plant, owner Tokyo Kato said there were no 2011 that devastated cility. magnitude 6 or greater. Iran sees ‘Snow apocalypse’ blankets frozen Moscow risk of fourth MOSCOW – Heavy snowfalls have buried COVID Moscow in massive snow piles, disrupting transport, delaying wave fed by flights and making it tough to get around for mutant virus pedestrians braving DUBAI – Iran’s health strong winds and tem- minister warned yester- peratures of minus 15 day of a fourth COVID-19 Celsius (5 Fahrenheit). surge with the possible The snowfall started late spread of a mutated virus on Thursday and was ex- in the worst-hit country in pected to end today. the Middle East. Russia’s emergency serv- President Hassan Rou- ice advised people to stay hani told state television away from trees, warning “alarm bells were ringing of winds gusts of 18 me- for a fourth coronavirus tres per second (40 mph). wave” as at least nine “It’s a real snowstorm, a cities and towns in Iran’s snow Armageddon, a snow southwest were declared apocalypse. This is not a high-risk “red” zones after practice alert, but a com- a rise in cases on Friday. bat alert,” Evgeny Tish- “Hard days are begin- kovets from the weather ning for us and you must service Fobos was quoted prepare to fight the most by RIA news agency as uncontrollable mutated saying before the snowfall virus which is unfortu- began. nately infecting the coun- By early Saturday,snow try,” health minister Saeed depth in the city reached Namaki told heads of med- 56 centimetres (22 inches), ical colleges. Fobos said. This was close Namaki said Iran’s to exceeding a record high Young women lie on the street yesterday during snowfall in Moscow, Russia. three first deaths this of 60 cm for accumulated week from the virus vari- snow on a Feb. 13, it said. record set for the date in ice. of more than 12 million Around 60,000 people ant suggested that the On Friday Moscow saw 1973, Russian news agen- There have been multi- people. Unusually for a were working to clear virus was spreading and record snowfall for a Feb. cies reported citing the na- ple flight delays at the weekend, traffic was the streets, the Moscow soon “may be found in any 12, breaking the previous tional meteorological serv- airports in Moscow, a city jammed in many places. mayor’s office said. city, village or family”. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 17

Suicide bomber detonates near Somalia’s presidential palace

MOGADISHU, Somalia curred as Somali politi- – Police say a suicide cians argue over how to bomber died and seven hold a national election. civilians were wounded The vote had been sched- when a vehicle exploded uled for Feb. 8, and some near a checkpoint outside argue that President the presidential palace in Mohamed Abdullahi Somalia’s capital, Mohamed has overstayed Mogadishu. his mandate. He seeks a Police spokesman second four-year term. Sadiq Ali Adan says the More talks on the elec- driver defied orders to tion crisis are set for stop on Saturday morn- Monday. ing, and police opened fire as passersby ran for Under threat their lives. He says more The al-Qaida-linked al- than a dozen vehicles Shabab extremist group were destroyed in the based in Somalia often blast. targets high-profile areas of Mogadishu. It has A man helps a civilian who was wounded in a bombing, outside a hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, Saturday, Delayed elections threatened to attack the Feb. 13, 2021. Police say a suicide bomber died and a number of civilians were wounded when a vehicle This latest bombing oc- polls. exploded near a checkpoint outside the presidential palace in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu. Fuel tanker blast at Afghan-Iran border causes massive fire HERAT, Afghanistan – gional hospital in Herat’s by criminal gangs. A fuel tanker exploded capital city, also named Taliban insurgents also yesterday at the Herat. travel freely in the area. Islam Qala crossing in Seven people injured Afghan security services Afghanistan’s western by the fire had been ad- had set up checkpoints Herat province on the mitted to the hospital so and were assisting ambu- Iranian border, injur- far, he said. lances and emergency ve- ing at least seven Iran’s semi-official hicles travelling to and people and causing a ISNA news agency from the border crossing. massive fire that con- quoted truck drivers as Iran’s state-run IRNA sumed more than 500 saying more than 500 news agency reported trucks carrying natu- trucks carrying natural that following the re- ral gas and fuel, gas and fuel had burned. quest from Herat’s gover- according to Afghan Two explosions at the nor, Iranian “rescue officials and Iranian border crossing were forces and firefighters state media. powerful enough to be are underway to extin- It wasn’t immediately spotted from space by guish the fire inside clear what caused the NASA satellites. One Afghanistan,” according blast. Wahid Qatali, blast erupted around to Mohsen Nejat, direc- Herat’s provincial gover- 1:10 p.m. Afghan time tor-general of crisis man- nor, said Afghan first (0840 GMT), the next agement in Iran’s responders did not have around a half hour later Khorasan Razavi the means to put out the at 1:42 p.m. local (0912 province. huge fire and had re- GMT). The fire spread to the quested support from The fire continued to Dogharoon customs facil- Iran in the form of fire- burn after nightfall and ities on the Iranian side In this still image taken from video, smoke rises from fuel tankers at the Islam fighting aircraft. forced Afghanistan to of the border and first re- Qala border with Iran, in Herat Province, west of Kabul, Afghanistan, Saturday, “For the time being, we shut down its electrical sponders – including the Feb. 13, 2021. A fuel tanker exploded yesterday at the Islam Qala crossing in can’t even talk about the supply from Iran, leaving fire department, the Afghanistan’s western Herat province on the Iranian border, injuring at least casualties,” Qatali told Herat in the dark, said Iranian army and border seven people and causing a massive fire that consumed more than 500 trucks The Associated Press. Wahidullah Tawhidi, forces – were assisting in carrying natural gas and fuel. The intensity of the spokesman for the extinguishing the blaze, flames meant ambu- Ministry of Power Supply. according to Iranian fire even in the first few route between Kabul from U.S. sanc- lances were having trou- The road between the state television. The minutes. Afghanistan and Iran. tions against Iran. ble reaching the wounded city of Herat and Islam Afghan side of the border The Islam Qala border The United States al- Satellite photos taken or getting close to the Qala is a dangerous crossing has its own fire crossing is around 120 lows Afghanistan to im- Saturday before the ex- site of the blast, said stretch of highway that department, but officials kilometres (75 miles) port fuel and oil from plosion showed dozens of Mohammad Rafiq Shirzy, Afghans rarely travel at in Herat said they west of the city of Herat, Iran as part of a special tankers parked at the spokesman for the re- night for fear of attacks weren’t in control of the and is a major transit concession that exempts border crossing. 18 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Clashes erupt at rally against corruption, COVID-19 curbs in Cyprus Myanmar NICOSIA – Clashes broke army out between police and ac- tivists in Cyprus yesterday suspends during a protest against corruption and lockdown measures imposed over laws limiting the COVID-19 pandemic, witnesses said. forces, hunts Police used water can- non and tear gas in an protest attempt to break up the gathering of several hun- dred people just beyond the backers medieval walls in Nicosia, MYANMAR’S junta on the capital of the east Saturday suspended laws Mediterranean island, constraining security Reuters witnesses said. forces from detaining At least one person who suspects or searching pri- said he was struck on the vate property without head by police was taken to court approval and or- hospital. dered the arrest of well- Cyprus has been rocked known backers of mass by allegations of graft in a protests against this lucrative citizenship-for-in- month’s coup. vestment programme, A series of announce- which was abruptly can- Protesters and activists are sprayed with a water canon durina a rally in Cyprus yesterday. ments came on the eighth celled last November after day of country-wide a senior state official was being halted, uproar over demic corruption. Capitalism, Stupid!” with the gathering, citing re- demonstrations against secretly filmed allegedly of- the scandal-hit scheme has “Partition and corrup- a picture of a Cypriot strictions aimed at curbing the Feb. 1 takeover and fering to arrange a pass- persisted, with comments tion go hand-in-hand,” passport. the spread of the coron- detention of elected leader port for a fictitious Chinese from opposition politicians, wrote one banner held by The use of violence at avirus. Those restrictions Aung San Suu Kyi, which investor with a criminal newspaper editorials and protesters, referring to protests in Cyprus is allow people out twice halted an unsteady tran- record. from ordinary Cypriots on the ongoing division of highly unusual. a day for mainly essential sition to democracy that Despite the scheme social media pointing to en- Cyprus. Another said: “Its Authorities had banned errands. began in 2011. The announcements bore echoes of the near half-century of military rule before reforms began, Draghi when the Southeast Asian country was one of the world’s most repressive takes and isolated states. An order signed by mil- itary ruler General Min Aung Hlaing suspended helm in three sections of laws “protecting the privacy and security of the citi- Italy zens”, which had been in- troduced during the grad- ROME — Mario Draghi, ual liberalisation. the man largely cred- Those sections include ited with saving the the requirement for a euro currency, took the court order to detain pris- helm as Italy’s premier oners beyond 24 hours yesterday after assem- and constraints on secu- bling a government of rity forces’ ability to enter economic experts and private property to search other technocrats along it or make arrests. The with career politicians suspensions also free up from across the spec- spying on communica- trum tions. to guide the pandemic- The statement gave no devastated nation to- specific end date. ward recovery. The coup has prompted Draghi and his 23 the biggest street protests Cabinet ministers took in more than a decade and their oaths of office at the Italian outgoing Premier Giuseppe Conte handed over the cabinet minister bell to new Premier Mario Draghi, has been denounced by Quirinal presidential during the handover ceremony at Chigi Palace Premier's office, in Rome, Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021. Western countries, with palace. Italian President the United States an- Sergio Mattarella had pen to sign their oath. takes” to rescue the euro. called Draghi’s experience Broad political backing for nouncing some sanctions tasked the former Euro- Draghi made no public The current head of the “an exceptional asset for the new Cabinet will be on the ruling generals and pean Central Bank comments during the first European Central Bank, Italy & Europe.” She said crucial in the Italian other countries also con- president with trying to hours of his premiership, Christine Lagarde, she was looking forward to Parliament, where Draghi sidering measures. form a government up to and his eyes showed no dis- tweeted her congratula- working with Draghi “for must win mandatory confi- As anti-coup protests managing the the health, cernible emotion over his tions. “I wish him all the our common recovery.” dence votes this week. sprang up again in the economic and social crises N95 mask. best as he takes on the task Draghi, 73, an economist With pandemic lock- biggest city Yangon, the of the coronavirus pan- Draghi’s most-quoted ahead, leading the govern- who also previously led downs pummeling Italy’s capital Naypyitaw and demic. words so far have been ment in the best interests Italy’s central bank, long-stagnant economy,he elsewhere on Saturday, In deference to coron- those uttered in 2012 when of all Italian citizens,” she replaced now-former chose for his economy min- the army said arrest war- avirus precautions,all par- the euro-zone risked col- said. Premier Giuseppe Conte, ister a non-political ap- rants had been issued for ticipants in the swearing- lapsing in a crisis of confi- Also tweeting good whose government col- pointee, Daniele Franco, an seven high profile critics in ceremony were masked, dence and he vowed the wishes was the European lapsed after a small party expert in public finances of military rule over their and a palace aide provided European Central Bank Union’s top executive, yanked support over the who has served in Italian comments on social each minister with a fresh would do “whatever it Ursula von der Leyen, who handling of the pandemic. central bank posts. media. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 19

Trump cleared by Senate of inciting Capitol riots WASHINGTON – Donald chamber’s unified Democrats in Romney – voted to convict and politician has considered run- 10 Republicans joining the Trump yesterday was ac- favouring conviction. remove him from office. ning for president again in chamber’s Democratic majority. quitted by the U.S. Senate Trump left office on Jan. 20, The drama on the Senate 2024. That vote came a week after in his second impeachment so impeachment could not be floor unfolded against a back- Trump is only the third pres- the pro-Trump mob stormed trial in 12 months, as his fel- used to remove him from power. drop of gaping divisions in a ident ever to be impeached by the neoclassical domed Capitol, low Republicans shielded But Democrats had hoped to se- pandemic-weary United States the House of Representatives – interrupted the formal congres- him from accountability for cure a conviction to hold him along political, racial, socioeco- a step akin to a criminal indict- sional certification of Biden’s the deadly assault by his responsible for a siege that left nomic and regional lines. The ment – as well as the first victory, clashed with an over- supporters on the U.S. five people including a police trial provided more partisan to be impeached twice and the whelmed police force, invaded Capitol, a shrine of Ameri- officer dead and to set the stage warfare even as Democratic first to face an impeachment the hallowed House and Senate can democracy. for a vote to bar him from ever President Joe Biden, who took trial after leaving office. chambers, and sent lawmakers The Senate vote of 57-43 fell serving in public office again. office on Jan. 20 after defeating But the Senate still has never into hiding for their own safety. short of the two-thirds majority Given the chance to hold office Trump at the ballot box on Nov. convicted an impeached presi- Shortly before the rampage, needed to convict Trump on a in the future, they argued, 3, called for healing and unity dent. Trump urged his followers to charge of incitement of insur- Trump would not hesitate to after his predecessor’s four tur- Democrats forged ahead with march on the Capitol, repeated rection after a five-day trial in encourage political violence bulent years in power and a impeachment despite knowing his false claims that the elec- the same building ransacked by again. caustic election campaign. it could overshadow critical tion was stolen from him his followers on Jan. 6 shortly Republicans also saved Trump, 74, continues to hold early weeks of Biden’s presi- through widespread voting after they heard him deliver an Trump in the Feb. 5, 2020, vote a grip on his party with a right- dency. fraud, and told them that “if incendiary speech. in his previous impeachment wing populist appeal and The House approved the sin- you don’t fight like hell, you’re In the vote, seven of the 50 trial, when only one senator “America First” message. The gle article of impeachment not going to have a country any- Senate Republicans joined the from their ranks – Mitt wealthy businessman-turned- against Trump on Jan. 13, with more.” ‘Optimistic’ UK PM plots ‘cautious’ lockdown easing BORIS Johnson has said he is hospitality as well. “optimistic” he will be able to set “I will be trying to set out as out plans later this month for a much as I possibly can in as “cautious” easing of England’s much detail as I can, always un- lockdown. derstanding that we have to be The prime minister said “huge wary of the pattern of disease. progress” had been made with “We don’t want to be forced the rollout of vaccines, with min- into any kind of retreat or re- isters hopeful that schools can verse ferret,” the PM added. reopen from 8 March. He also echoed comments After this, the government made earlier by Health would look to open non-essen- Secretary Matt Hancock that tial shops and then later the Covid-19 could become an ill- hospitality sector, he said. ness that we live with - like the It comes as scientists warned flu - by the end of the year. against easing lockdown meas- “A nasty disease like this will ures too quickly. roll through. A new disease like Mr Johnson will set out his this will take time for humanity “road map” out of lockdown on to adapt to, but we are,” Mr 22 February. Johnson said. So far, more than 14.5 million “I do think that in due time it people in the UK have had at will become something that we least one dose of coronavirus simply live with. Some people vaccine, according to Saturday’s will be more vulnerable than government figures. others - that’s inevitable.” The government is aiming to Mr Hancock told the Daily offer a first jab to everyone in Telegraph that he hoped new Protesters show the three finger salute atop the Democracy Monument as pro-democracy demon- the top four priority groups - drugs by the end of 2021 could strators demand the release of their leaders in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday. about 15 million people - by make Covid a “treatable dis- Monday. ease”, and one that we live with The figures also show a fur- “like we do the flu”. Thai activists cover monument ther 612 people have died in the This suggested that he was UK within 28 days of a positive ruling out a “zero Covid” strat- coronavirus test, taking the total egy, aimed at eliminating the number of deaths by that meas- virus entirely from the UK. to protest royal defamation law ure to 116,908. However, scientists said coro- BANGKOK – Youth activists the monument represented the The “lese majeste” law, con- Speaking at a visit to the navirus mutations were getting protesting against laws forbid- blood of fighters for democracy. tained in Article 112 of Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechno- “more dangerous” and “more in- ding insult to Thailand’s power- Police deputy spokesman Thailand’s criminal code, carries logies plant in Billingham, fectious” and warned against ful king briefly clashed with po- Kissana Pattanacharoen said penalties of up to 15 years in Teesside, Mr Johnson said: “I’m treating it like the flu. lice yesterday after draping more than 20 police officers were prison. optimistic, I won’t hide it from Dr Sarah Pitt, a virologist at Bangkok’s Democracy Monu- injured in the clashes and seven Student activists say the law you. I’m optimistic but we have the University of Brighton, told ment in red cloth. or eight people were detained has been abused for decades to to be cautious.” the BBC: “It’s not a type of flu. Protesters threw paint at po- for questioning. He also said at crush political opposition to a Setting out the government’s It’s not the same sort of virus.It lice and several small bangs least one firecracker exploded at military-royalist establishment. priorities, he said: “Our chil- doesn’t cause the same sort of were heard during a stand-off the scene. The government led by former dren’s education is our number disease, it’s very, very nasty.” near a city shrine after the The demonstration was in re- military junta chief Prayuth one priority, but then working She added: “The mutations, demonstration had moved from action to this week’s arrests of Chan-ocha denies any abuse of forward, getting non-essential the variations, that we’re seeing Democracy Monument and the four leading protest figures the law, saying political opposi- retail open as well and then, in are becoming more infectious, main leaders had called for it to under charges of insulting the tion is allowed but breaking the due course, as and when we can not less infectious and a bit disperse. monarchy in mass anti-govern- law by insulting the king will be prudently and cautiously, of more dangerous, not less dan- Activists said the red cloth on ment demonstrations last year. punished. course we want to be opening gerous.” 20 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Enjoy a wonderful Valentine’s Day his year, the day of love may look very different to previous years. TChocolates, flowers, dinner, and dancing may have been what you were used to in the past. How times have changed... Celebrating Valentine’s Day may be the furthest thing from your mind because of everything Covid-related at the moment. With the ‘national pause’ in place you may not have even had the chance to get to the shops for chocolates or a card during the weekly mandated hours. However, don’t let this stop you from being romantic today. Show your loved ones how much they mean to you and if you can’t say it with gifts – say it from the heart. Say it with words and simple gestures. Whatever you decide to do doesn’t need to be grand, it just needs to be honest and meaningful. How you choose to celebrate doesn’t have to cost a cent. People are stressed from online fatigue, work, unemployment, home- schooling, childcare, fear of getting sick, and so much more but don’t keep romance at a distance, go all out today and share your time and energy. So you can’t go to a fancy restaurant, but you can cook a delightful breakfast Surprise your significant other with breakfast in bed for Valentine’s Day. in bed or a fancy meal for dinner. Get creative and rustle something different up. If there’s hardly anything in your cupboards, use your imagina- tion and tastebuds to prepare some- thing made with love that will taste great. Spend the day doing something together with your significant other, cook together, bathe together, exercise together, dance together, do some gardening together, watch movies together – I think you get my drift – do something, but whatever you do – do it together! Even if you don’t live alone get everybody in the house in- volved. If you’re physically distancing use technology to make video calls and communicate with each other from under the same roof. It may seem silly but it can be fun if you make it your mission to enjoy. One of the most important parts of Valentine’s day is to give your undi- vided attention to your partner and in- dulge in the moment. Reminisce about old times. How you met, what experi- ences you’ve lived through as a couple, the highs and the lows... Take time to appreciate each other and really look at the things that you hold most dear in your lives. For those of you who are used to showing your appreciation and love on a daily basis, search a little deeper and see how much more love you can squeeze out. (DAB) You can’t go out for a meal at a fancy restaurant, so create your own romantic dinner for two at home. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 21

How to cope if you’re experiencing social pain right now

etween social distancing, can- celled events, and political un- Brest, many people are facing what researchers call “social pain.” “In the psychological literature, the term ‘social pain’ has been used mostly to refer to reactions to losses of rela- tionship through rejection, abandon- ment, death, moving away, or whatever, but there’s no doubt that simply lack- ing regular contact with people who value their relationships with us cre- ates negative emotions involving sad- ness and loneliness as well,” Mark Leary, PhD, professor emeritus of psychology and neuroscience at Duke University, told Healthline. In fact, a study from the University of São Paulo suggests there’s been a mete- oric rise in social pain from COVID-19. Leary says feelings of loss are most likely the main reason people violate guidelines for controlling the pandemic, such as going out with friends, attend- ing social events, and travelling over the holidays. “The motive to maintain social con- nections is so powerful – and the emo- tions associated with feeling discon- nected from other people so aversive – that it overrides rational considerations for staying healthy and protecting other people from the virus,” he said. Feelings of social pain are an inherent part of being human, and while they are unpleasant, they do not signify that there is something wrong with you, says PhD, professor Mark Leary emeritus of psychology and neuroscience at Duke What is social pain? University, North Carolina, US. Leary defines social pain as a broad, informal label for painful emotions important relationships, seriously un- social circumstances that caused his or nication can help, too. caused by situations involving other dermining the quality of our lives.” her pain. The negative feelings would “Imagine if we were facing the pan- people, such as feeling rejected, alone, While feelings of social pain can feel evaporate,” Leary said. demic without these communication ca- ostracised, devalued, abandoned, or unbearable, the following can help you Minimising how often you think pabilities and were still using only disconnected. cope. about your social situation can help. mailed letters to communicate,” Leary “Typically, we think of ‘pain’ being “That’s hard to do, of course, but get- said. caused by physical events – breaking 1. Know your pain is real ting involved in intrinsically interest- an arm, stepping on broken glass, get- Feelings of social pain are an inher- ing activities – hobbies, music, interest- 5. Engage in “social snacking” ting stung by a bee – but purely inter- ent part of being human, and while ing TV or movies, exercise, and so on – Just as people snack when they’re personal events can hurt as much as they are unpleasant, they do not signify will help even when you don’t initially hungry but can’t fit in a full meal, physical experiences,” Leary said. that there is something wrong with feel like doing them. Distraction is Leary says research shows that people Those events might include painful you, says Leary. sometimes a perfectly acceptable cop- can snack on reminders of their rela- feelings of grief when a loved one dies, However, they do indicate that your ing strategy. Or learn to meditate, tionships when they can’t interact with sadness when a romantic relationship connections are not what you would which helps people become less caught- people. ends, or feeling ignored and rejected by like them to be at this time. up by their thoughts and thus less “Looking at photos, reading old let- your peers. “Also, keep in mind that part of the upset by them,” said Leary. ters or messages, and simply thinking “The function of social pain is basi- problem lies in our individualist, frag- about one’s relationships can help re- cally the same as physical pain – to mented, modern society. For millions of 3. Feed your senses duce negative feelings. Of course, they alert us to threats to our social well- years, our ancestors lived in close-knit Social pain, as well as physical pain, can also create feelings of sadness or being (just as physical pain indicates clans of 30 to 50 other individuals, so responds well to sensorial experiences, nostalgia about the missing connection, threats to physical well-being), and to feelings of social isolation were rare says Serani. but that’s sometimes better than social deter us from doing things that under- (unless one behaved so badly that he or “So, make sure to rest when you can, pain,” he said. mine our social relationships (just as she was ostracised or expelled from the move your body as well, look at beauti- fear of pain motivates us to take pre- group). In contrast, we live rather so- ful, colourful things, listen to music, 6. Get help from a professional cautions [for our] physical safety),” said cially disconnected lives, so feelings of grab a hug from a loved one [you live While most social pain comes and Leary. social pain are more likely,” he said. with] or fur baby, or take a warm goes for both children and adults, Much of the benefit of social pain lies Deborah Serani, Psy.D. professor at shower or bath, savour a cup of tea, or Serani says if you can’t find relief from in its aversiveness, he added. Adelphi University and author of smell the fresh air, or a scent that social pain, and are struggling consis- For instance, not wanting to experi- “Sometimes When I’m Sad,” says to soothes to reset your mind, body and tently for two weeks or more with emo- ence negative feelings leads people to permit yourself to feel the emotional soul,” she said. tional and physical pains at work, behave in ways that protect their pain. home, or school, reach out to a mental meaningful relationships. Though “Make sure you don’t set a time limit 4. Find ways to connect with others health professional. adults and children are often discour- for your social pain. Everyone moves If possible, prioritise connecting with “[They can] assess if you need more aged from worrying about what other through trauma differently,” Serani people who you value most. involved assistance,” she said. people think of them, social connection told Healthline. “Of course, that doesn’t mean to vio- Leary agrees. concerns are important. late COVID guidelines just to get to- “Counsellors and psychotherapists “Imagine how we would act if people 2. Try to manage your thoughts gether with other people. Any sort of can offer strategies for dealing with were not at all concerned with other In addition to missing social connec- connection will help – email, phone feelings of disconnection, and simply people ignoring, rejecting, and aban- tions, thinking about missing them calls, video-based calls, such as Zoom having a connection with a mental doning them,” Leary said. “We’d have adds to the distress. and FaceTime – but the more direct health professional can, in itself, make trouble maintaining friendships, ro- “Imagine a person in great social and personal, the better,” said Leary. people feel less isolated and lonely,” he mantic relationships, jobs, and other pain who momentarily forgot about the Being grateful for the ease of commu- said. 22 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate Make an easy Valentine’s Day card VALENTINE’S DAY is today – same way again. February 14, so if you haven’t pur- chased a card or made one already – get Materials crafting now! Pencil There’s nothing like a pretty home- Items to trace around, such as drinking made card to convey your sentiments, glasses and coins express your love, tell someone how Scrap cardboard to make stencils much they mean to you and make an ef- Stencils and/or hole punches fort to surprise them with your creative Blank cards, or heavy paper or card skills. stock folded in half You don’t need to be an artist to cre- Newspaper, both black-and-white and ate some easy DIY cards. Cut simple colour pages geometric shapes from a newspaper or Magazines magazine, glue them in a pleasing Scissors arrangement and you’re ready to pen Glue stick (or white glue and a paint- your message of love and appreciation. brush to apply it) If you have children – get them Markers There’s nothing like a pretty homemade card to express your love. involved too and you might just find that the day turns out to be more 1. Draw shapes on plain printer them to cardboard and cut them out.) 3. Lay your shapes on the card. When enjoyable than you thought it paper, newspaper or magazine pages, you make a pleasing arrangement, would! using templates, stencils or trace items 2. Cut out your shapes. There are adhere them to the card with a glue To prepare, find areas in the paper such as drinking glasses and coins. (To plenty to choose from – Hearts would be stick. That’s it, you’re almost done. that you’d like to use. Look for nice make your own templates, draw a shape the obvious choice but squares, circles, All you need to do now is write your typography, colours, patterns or photo- onto scrap cardboard and cut it out. diamonds and stars etc. can be just as own message or poem inside. If you’re graphs. Once you start collecting You can hand-draw shapes like hearts fun, especially with a loving message feeling really creative make your own decorative pages to cut up, you’ll never or find them online via image inside the actual card. envelope before giving the finished look at a newspaper or magazine the searches. Print out the shapes, tape product to your loved one. US First Lady Jill Biden transforms White House for Valentine’s Day ill Biden brought some love to the Each heart-shaped board had one of White House for Valentine’s Day. these words written on them and Jill JThe First Lady of the United was also seen in a photo signing one States sent an adoring message to her with a paintbrush. fans – and the country – by transform- Fans adored her sentiment and com- ing her new home with some unbeliev- mented, “Yes. Because Lady fulfils her able decorations. duties with love and class,” while an- Jill covered the impressive lawn at other said, “I couldn’t love this more,” their home with a series of giant hearts and a third added, “We love you Jill.” with words she felt we should remem- Joe and Jill were also photographed The First Lady wanted the nation to feel the love. ber as February 14 approached. on the grounds in front of the signs, US President Joe Biden’s wife shared wearing their masks. to encourage everyone to wear a mask on the floor to play with Champ and photos of her heartfelt project on She recently also gave fans a very while outside – even when walking a Major inside the huge living space. Instagram and captioned the post: rare glimpse inside the family living dog – in the ongoing coronavirus pan- Joe and Jill moved into the iconic “Healing, Courage, Love, room at the White House in a video she demic. building on January 20 after Joe was Compassion, Gratitude, Peace, Amor, posted on social media. In the footage, Jill sat on a cream sworn in as president on inauguration Strength, Kindness, Family, Unity. Love Jill featured in the video with her chair in front of a roaring fire, giving day, along with his Vice President Jill.” beloved rescue dogs Champ and Major, the room a cosy feel. She later got down Kamala Harris.

ill was pictured signing the ‘healing’ heart. Jill made a statement with Valentine’s artwork on the lawn of the White House. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 •23

Something that was once so natural – like hugging – can now be hazardous, car- rying with it the risk of transmitting a virus that travels through close contact. Wave goodbye to handshakes, say the experts. No more hugs or handshakes

nless you have been living under demonstration of caring, since keeping a rock for the past year, then you your distance from others is a way to Uwould know the entire world is protect you and them from illness. currently dealing with a deadly pan- demic. Handshakes The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Before COVID came around, a hand- has killed millions of people globally, shake was a common way to meet and and although vaccines have been greet friends, a way to offer congratula- developed and are being rolled out, tions, express gratitude, or even used to the danger is still there. seal a deal. Since the start, health experts have In a business situation, you were ex- advised us on how to stay safe and pected to offer a firm handshake to your prevent the spread of the virus: avoid business associate or client. A firm crowds; wear a mask when around handshake with good eye contact was persons you don’t live with; clean your said to communicate self-confidence, hands often, either with soap and water and it was often heard that you could Blow kisses instead of actually giving them when you greet someone! for 20 seconds or a hand sanitiser; and tell a lot about someone’s character sim- avoid close contact with people who are ply by how they shook your hand (extro- sick. verts have firm confident grips while shy people and neurotics tend to shake As a result, there are certain activi- hands softly and gently). ties that we can no longer engage in, However, we are now being advised to that we never gave a second thought wave goodbye to handshakes to before: Speaking on The Wall Street Journal podcast last April, America’s top infec- Hugging tious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci In pre-COVID-19 times, hugging a said, “I don’t think we should ever friend you hadn’t seen in a while was a shake hands ever again, to be honest natural occurrence. And if you hap- with you. Not only would it be good to pened across multiple friends while out prevent coronavirus disease, it probably in public, you could be rest assured that would decrease instances of influenza each and every one of them would get a dramatically in this country.” hug. We hugged others when we were Fauci made a similar statement in happy, excited, sad or trying to give an interview with Sinclair Broadcast comfort. Group on April 7. Experts even touted hugging’s health “As a society, just forget about shak- benefits, noting that human contact ing hands,” Fauci said. “We don’t need to stimulates the brain to release the ben- shake hands.We’ve got to break that eficial hormone oxytocin, decreasing custom. Because as a matter of fact, anxiety and stress, which can boost the that is really one of the major ways that immune system. One study found that you can transmit a respiratory hugs could help ward off illness, as illness.” frequent hugs actually protected people So, what are some safer alternatives? from increased susceptibility to the kind Positive gestures: Making a heart of stress that leads to infection. And with both of your hands, an air hug, a participants who were sick exhibited wave or a tip of your hat can be a nice fewer symptoms when they were gesture to show you care while still ad- Make a heart with your hands to express your feelings. hugged more often. hering to social distancing practices. These days, however, that’s just not a Blow a kiss: Greeting someone you Bowing: If you’re looking for a Using your electronic devices: We good idea, and the opposite is true. Now don’t live with via a kiss on the cheek slightly more formal way to greet some- live in a digital age, so let’s use it. You hugging can be hazardous, carrying isn’t recommended during a pandemic. one, try giving a slight bow.This re- could make a phone call, FaceTime, chat with it the risk of transmitting a virus Instead, try blowing a kiss! This playful spectful gesture is a great alternative to via Zoom, WhatsApp video, or send that travels through close contact. The gesture is a great substitute as long as use in situations where you may typi- recordings to loved ones and friends. decision not to hug can actually be a you don’t touch your fingers to your lips. cally shake someone’s hand. (LS) 24 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Members of Dancin’ Africa Children as they perform the piece, ‘Singing Angels’ in 2014. One of the performances witness during the 2016 Street Fair in Holetown. Reliving memories of the Holetown Festival

By Marsha Gittens over 40 years old, usually got started on artistes at the Seaside Theatre, an ex- id you know that February 13 to the Sunday with an opening ceremony. hibition in the Holetown Library and 20 was the scheduled date for In 2019, this occurred at the Holetown the Grand Floodlit Tattoo at Trent’s Dthe Holetown Festival this year? Monument. Some of the specially in- Playing Field. Although plans to stage the annual vited guests were the 2018-2019 Queen The latter event in 2017 occurred event in 2021 have been cancelled due of the Festival, Sheryl Knight and the under a starry sky. That Friday, the to the COVID-19 pandemic, memories 2019 Festival Ambassador, Damien large crowd sitting and standing on the of the good times had over the years by “Hypasounds” Etienne. The Zouave outskirts of the Field viewed exciting, locals and visitors remain in the hearts Band of the Barbados Defence Force high energy displays by the cheerlead- of many. were in fine form on that occasion and ing squad, Twisters All Star Gym Each year around this time, hun- their musical presentation was a hit Barbados. Routines were also executed Dr. Pedro Welch as he delivered the dreds converged in the town which his- with attendees. in the field’s centre by various units of 2014 Alfred Pragnell Memorial Talk. torically is the site of the first English From Monday until Friday, the the Royal Barbados Police Force settlement of Barbados. For a full week, Festival has a little bit of something for (RBPF). These wide ranging presenta- the Special Services and the Canine this St. James location would be everyone. Scheduled events usually in- tions were by the RBPF Band, the Unit of the RBPF. buzzing with varied and enjoyable ac- cluded: The Alfred Pragnell Memorial Mounted Troop, the Tactical Response On the Saturday and the Sunday, the tivities. Talk at The Holetown Methodist Unit, the Baton Swingers, the Drill West coast town is the place to be to ex- Proceedings for the Festival, which is Church, free concerts featuring local Squad, RBPF’s Motorcycle Corp and perience the Street Fair. From as early as 10am, several tourists and locals would traverse the stretch from Massy’s carpark to just past the Sandy Crest Medical Centre, viewing the products on offer at the many stalls. Some of the locally-made items on sale would be jewellery, leather craft and pottery as well as wooden carvings and paintings. Tasty foods and beverages such as fishcakes, pudding and souse, barbeque pigtails, golden apple juice and sorrel are normally in high demand and eas- ily acquired from the food stalls. Particularly on the Saturday, the Street Fair would be kept lively by a strolling Tuk Band group who would manoeuvre through the crowded stretch playing tuk rhythms. During some years the group would also be ac- companied by a Mother Sally. Also on this day, from around 11am, individuals would line both sides of the main road to witness the Courtesy Garage Ltd. Street Parade. In 2015, this parade featured a showcase of both vintage and classic vehicles by mem- bers of the Barbados Association of Classic Car. It also included a march

The Zouave Band of the Barbados Defence Force as they perform during the 2019 opening ceremony of the Holetown NOSTALGIA on next page Festival. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 25

A look back over the years

NOSTALGIA from Students of the Darryl Jordan Secondary School performing during the 2016 BANKS/Coca Cola Street Fair. previous page of the 2015 Queen of the Festival Children of Promise. ment package for patrons to appreciate. past by the Zouave Band of the Pageant, members of Dancin’ Africa, From around 4pm, the Barbados Within recent years, the Holetown Barbados Defence Force, the Barbados members of the Haynesville Tuk Band Tourism Marketing Inc.’s (BTMI) Festival has successfully concluded on Cadet Corps and the Boys Scouts. Also and Children Dance Group and mem- Holetown Dooflicky took centre stage. the Sunday with the Queen of the involved in the march were contestants bers of Praise Academy of Dance This event too featured a full entertain- Festival Pageant in the Auditorium of the Frederick Smith Secondary School. This event and those which occurred over the previous days, would have left both young and old looking forward to visiting the next year.

Students of the Blackman and Gollop Primary School performing the dance ‘The Hawkers’ during the 2014 Holetown Festival Holetown Festival: Fun facts

• The inaugural Holetown Festival took pageant. Dr. Pedro Welch. Locals and visitors in place in 1977. • In 2013, exciting presentations were attendance at the Holetown Methodist • Shakeria Maynard was crowned done by school groups from the George Church listened attentively as he spoke on Miss Holetown 2011 when the 29th Queen Lamming Primary School, Luther Thorne the topic, ‘The Unique Military History of Holetown pageant was staged at the Primary School and Eden Lodge Primary of Barbados’. St. James Secondary School. She also won School during the 37th annual BANKS/ • In 2015, Queen, a character played the title of Best Talent. Coca Cola Street Fair. by Eric Lewis, was one of the headline acts • In 2012, the then 19 year old, • In 2014, the Alfred Pragnell who graced the stage at the ‘Bajan Night’ Shopping and more shopping! That is Zoe Trotman won the Miss Holetown Memorial Lecture was delivered by held at the Seaside Theatre. what some tourists who attended the Holetown Festival’s Street Fair in 2015 seized the opportunity to do. 26 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Self-diagnosing is dangerous

Stories by By Cara L. Jean-Baptiste we may be experiencing or what may be going on for us, so I can get the desire n a world where information is for self-diagnosis. However, if someone readily at one’s fingertips, it may be has never been to a Mental Health Ieasier for an individual to Google professional their self-diagnosis falls whether or not they may have a short,” she said. particular mental illness rather than “A Mental Health professional would go to get a proper diagnosis from a be equipped to help their client gain a Mental Health professional, however, greater understanding as to what is Speak to a Mental Health professional for advice before attempting to self-diag- one therapist warns about the going on, and whether the diagnosis nose your mental health using Google or other search engines. dangers of self-diagnosing. the client has arrived at through During an interview with The self-diagnosis is even accurate.” steps, the information may not only be The therapist advised that if a Barbados Advocate, Kathilia Edghill, Edghill explained that there were inaccurate, but harmful. person truly had the desire to discover Individual, Couples and Family numerous factors that needed to be Furthermore, she explained that if they had a Mental Health illness or Therapist of Wings of Grace taken into consideration before people picking up self-diagnoses and desire to have a Mental Health Counselling, highlighted this. diagnosing someone in regards to their running with them as truth, in a sense, diagnosis, it would be in their best I think it’s normal for us as human Mental Health. dishonoured people who actually have interest to speak to a Mental Health beings to want an explanation for what She noted that without doing these been clinically diagnosed. professional. Therapist shares coping tips

SCHOOL is back in session and even into self-care, whether that be reading though students may have received a a book or binge watching a show; find break over the last few weeks, many things that you can do to put yourself report that they already feel drained at rest so that you are not always at the start of this semester. in stress mode, school mode or work One University of the West Indies, mode.” Cave Hill Campus student, Tammy Additionally, Edghill revealed that Lynton revealed to The Barbados she planned to have a COVID-19 Advocate that she, along with many Mental Health Support Group for the of her classmates, felt particularly next few weeks during this national burdened this semester and the school pause, and she believed that this semester had only just begun. group, which would be safe and confi- Individual, Couples and Family dential space, would be a great outlet Therapist, Kathilia Edghill of Wings for of Grace Counselling, shared some students to engage in as well. tips with us that she believed would Persons interested can reach PRESS PAUSE: Students should take as many breaks as they possibly can be able to help students during this out to her via her website, advises Individual, Couples and Family Therapist, Kathilia Edghill of Wings unprecedented time. wingsofgracecounselling.com. of Grace Counselling. First, she encouraged them to take as many breaks as they possibly could. She noted that being on Zoom multiple hours a day takes a lot more energy and this could lead to the extra stress that students were facing during the day; as such, she believed it was important for students to make sure that they were getting something to eat, going for a walk for a few min- utes daily and just ensuring that they are taking care of their physical bod- ies – since they are infront of their laptop screen multiple hours per day. Additionally, she encouraged them to lean on their support system of family and friends and make sure they were calling and speaking to them as often as they could as it was important for them to still remain as social as they could, especially during the national pause. “So balance is key. Yes do your work and assignments, as you need to do it online on zoom, attend your classes and then also when you’re not in that space make sure that you are pouring back into you,” she said. GOOD ADVICE: Don’t forget your support system of family and friends and make sure you’re calling and speaking to them “Make sure that you are leaning as often as you can. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 27

Black History Maria Van Brittan Brown

– Innovator of the first home security system – CCTV

IN February, the Black community celebrates the innovation and talent of Black trailblazers. Their history has often been overshadowed or buried due to the colour of their skin. This is particularly so for the women in this community. Black women are known for the arts, fashion, music, and cuisine but they are not recognised for accom- plishments in technology and science. American Marie Van Brittan Brown should be thanked for her innovation in home security technology. She was born in Jamaica, Queens, New York in 1922. A nurse by profession, Brown and her husband worked late hours. The home- owner was concerned about people breaking into her home and conceptu- alised a plan that would allow her to monitor who was visiting the premises. In 1966, Brown with her husband Marie Van Brittan Brown. developed a home security system that consisted of four peepholes, a sliding gency button that would alert the camera, television monitors, and two- police. way microphones. This surveillance Three years later, Brown received created what we know today as the a patent for her invention U. Patent Closed Circuit television system or number 3,482,037 and she was CCTV. Some features included multiple awarded by the National Scientists peepholes to see visitors at different Committee, a milestone published in Original patented blue print of the home security system as drawn by Marie Van heights, the ability to communicate the New York Times. She died at the Brittan Brown with people at the door, and an emer- age of 76. Black entrepreneur breaks into France’s exclusive champagne club REIMS, France – When Marie-Ines reserved exclusively for people making Romelle, a Black woman born on the the sparkling wine in the Champagne Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, decided region of northeast France. to join the exclusive world of France’s When Romelle was three years old, champagne producers, she saw no one she and her family moved from who looked like her. Guadeloupe to a Paris suburb. Instead of being intimidated, she ap- Her father died when she was nine. plied the motto by which she tries to She left school at 16 to support her live her life. family. She developed a passion for “You have to dare. When we dare, we champagne when she worked as a manage to push open doors,” she said. sales assistant in an airport deli- Romelle, 42, is now running her own catessen near Paris. champagne label, in partnership with a Years later in 2015, after jobs manag- local vineyard, and says it is has found ing stores, working as a bank asset a market among customers of manager and studying for a business Caribbean origin who want a brand degree, she moved to the champagne that reflects their connections with the region and launched her brand. region. She said she hoped to blaze a trail for The brand is called Marie Cesaire, a other people from ethnic minority portmanteau of the names of her groups. mother and father. In a nod to the “We have to stop building barriers Caribbean, the label on the bottle car- and telling ourselves that ‘I can’t do t ries an image of a hummingbird and his or that’,” she said. the drink is sweetened with raw cane “I hope that tomorrow, someone will sugar. identify with me, and that I will make To the best of her knowledge, she is an impact on them, that they will the only Black producer of champagne, dare to do things they didn’t dare to Marie-Ines Romelle. a strictly regulated designation that is before.” 28 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

ARIES (March 21-April 19).Signing a contract is a strong possibility. You are LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23).The ready to take the plunge. That's why HOROSCOPES reappearance of an old friend or lover could you will ignore a bout of last-minute put you in something of a predicament. You nerves. It's natural to feel on edge about may not have parted on the best of terms but making a life-changing commitment. if someone contacts you to apologise, you will You've already weighed up all the pros and cons of this situation and see no reason why you shouldn't accept their apology. This could put you know deep down that you are making a good choice. an existing relationship under threat when your partner is getting suspicious. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Fragrant flowers, chocolates or a gift of jewellery will make your heart sing. Your partner knows how to make SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). If you're feeling insecure about your job, you feel as if you're the happiest person on earth. You may not be money or your living situation, you need to discuss this with someone able to travel very far but take this chance to dress up and enjoy a who can help you. Burying your head in the sand is not going to make gourmet meal, even if it is at home. It is time to have some romantic this problem go away. It is time to tackle important issues while you fun. still have some control.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21).You've been working hard recently and SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). A financial agreement already pausing to enjoy simple pleasures will put life back in its proper made could be causing problems. You knew it wouldn't be easy but it perspective. Spending the day in bed with your amour will remind you has turned out to be worse than expected. Reaching out to a of how relaxing life can be. Are you single? Pamper yourself with a generous relative could temporarily solve the problem. You may have soak in a scented bath or enjoy a home cooked meal. to renegotiate the terms of a joint arrangement.

CANCER (June 22-July 22). You will handle an unforeseen dilemma CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Be ready to come up with some fun with surprising ease. You've been clinging to what is comfortable and ideas you and a partner can share together. They want to make you familiar and this has prevented you from finding true happiness. Be happy. Take the initiative in romance. This is a good time to decide on bold and grasp opportunities to bring improvements into your life. Are your priorities. Are you single? You could meet someone special you single? Making peace with an ex-lover feels like a natural thing to through a community or volunteer project. do. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). You need to balance work and family LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Now is the time to take control of your life. It commitments. One is starting to outweigh the other. An issue that is doesn't matter how charming or persuasive someone who is close to causing problems in the home remains unresolved. Sort this out now. you is being, you can't let them dictate your decisions. You hardly Your intuition will play an important part in decisions you are making realise you are being manipulated until a friend who has your best regarding a close relationship. interests at heart points this out to you. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). A careless attitude will lead to mistakes VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You may need to remind your partner to that will take a lot of rectifying. If you're working on anything that stop thinking about work and other responsibilities. Arranging a needs concentration and focus, it will pay to keep your wits about romantic break might be challenging but you both would enjoy a short you. In a group situation there is a lot of talk but little action. Will you outing. Getting a change of scenery will be refreshing and will allow be the one to take the initiative? It could be interesting for you to you to make some beautiful memories out of ordinary moments. do so. Bible Challenge 1.) The meek will 4.) David was king in inherit: ______this city before he A. the mountains reigned in B. the garden Jerusalem: ______C. the earth A. Hinnom D. peace B. Bethel C. Hebron 2.) Jesus gave his D. Bethlehem ‘sermon’ starting in Matthew 5 from 5.) The queen of which geographical which land came to feature? meet Solomon? A. on a river in a boat _____ B. on a mountain A. Samaria C. on a plain B. Syria D. in a valley C. Sheba D. Smyrna 3.) In the beginning, the earth was with- 6.) The Apocalypse out form and cov- was written from ered with: ______which island? ______A. water A. Tarshish B. fire B. Madagascar C. debris C. Cyprus

D. forest D. Patmos Ans: 1. C, 2. B, 3. A 4. C, 5. C, 6. D 6. C, 5. C, 4. A 3. B, 2. C, 1. Ans: The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 29

Timberlake apologises Swift rerecording old songs to Spears after backlash TAYLOR SWIFT enough to persuade her announced on Good fans to abandon her old JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE “I have not been perfect Morning America recordings and listen to has apologised to Britney in navigating all of this Thursday that a these new ones that she Spears after a new docu- throughout my career. I rerecording of one now owns,” she said. mentary led to criticism know this apology is a of her first albums, Owning the masters to of how he treated her first step and doesn’t ab- “Fearless,” will be such hits as “Love Story” during and after their solve the past. I want to released on April 9. – the rerecording of relationship. take accountability for “Fearless” – for those of which debuted at mid- “Framing Britney my own missteps in all of you who don’t live and night on Friday – will Spears” featured archive this as well as be part of breathe Taylor Swift likely net Swift a cash clips of Timberlake dis- a world that uplifts and news – is her most suc- windfall. But ownership cussing his sexual rela- supports. I care deeply cessful record, with more of her recordings runs tionship with the singer. about the wellbeing of than seven million al- deeper than just dollars In a statement on the people I love and bums sold. But the pop and cents. Instagram Thursday, have loved. I can do bet- star doesn’t own the After Thursday’s an- Timberlake said he was ter and I will do better.” master recordings of the nouncement of “Fearless “deeply sorry” and After finding fame at songs on that album, (Taylor’s Version)”, Swift wanted to “take account- the end of the 1990s, or any songs on albums detailed why she was ability”. Spears said she was wait- she recorded prior to rerecording her songs. He also apologised to ing until she was married 2019’s “Lover.” That in- “I’ve spoken a lot about Janet Jackson, after fail- to lose her virginity. cludes such major hits why I’m remaking my ing to support her over But during a radio in- as “We Are Never Ever first six albums, but the their controversial Super terview, a clip of which Getting Back Together,” Swift’s rerecording of ‘Love Story’ debuted at mid- way I’ve chosen to do this Bowl performance. features in the documen- “Mine” and “Shake It night on Friday. will hopefully help illu- Timberlake and Spears tary,Timberlake publicly Off.” minate where I’m dated between 1999 and revealed that they had By rerecording her music business pro- monly known as a “mas- coming from,” Swift 2002, while he was a slept together. hits, Swift can reclaim gramme at the ter.” wrote on Instagram. member of boy band Two years later, at the control over her record- University of Miami “The artist gets paid a “Artists should own their N*Sync. 2004 Super Bowl, ings, or at least the new Frost School of Music, percentage of the rev- own work for so many After their split, he in- Timberlake performed “Taylor’s Version” of told CNN Business. enue generated by the reasons, but the most directly accused her of with Janet Jackson, acci- them. Another way to “She’s in complete con- recording, but they’re not screamingly obvious one cheating on him when he dentally exposing her think about it is that trol of the recordings in control,” Elton added. is that the artist is the hired a lookalike actress breast. The “wardrobe Swift is declaring of the now, even though this “Now Taylor is making only one who really to appear in the video for malfunction”, as it be- masters, “you belong doesn’t change the con- these recordings and put- knows that body of his single “Cry Me A came known, led to out- with me.” trol of the old record- ting them out. What hap- work.” River”. cry and complaints from “The recordings she ings.” pens to them is really en- For Swift, rerecording viewers. made originally were When a recording tirely up to her.” “Fearless” adds to an al- Justin Timberlake’s Although both apolo- made at a different time artist signs with a label, Rerecording her songs ready prolific year. She statement in full: gised, Jackson absorbed and under different con- the typical legal arrange- is a “great strategy” for has released two albums “I’ve seen the messages, the bulk of the negative tractual and legal objec- ment grants the record Swift, according to Elton. during the coronavirus tags, comments, and con- publicity. She was fined tions. She’s not happy company ownership of “Taylor has a very ded- quarantine – “Folklore” cerns and I want to re- and blacklisted by US about this,” Serona the copyrights of the icated and loyal fan base, and “Evermore,” which spond. I am deeply sorry radio and MTV, and Elton, director of the recordings. This is com- and her voice is powerful have topped the charts. for the times in my life Timberlake’s failure to where my actions con- publicly support her was tributed to the problem, heavily criticised in later where I spoke out of turn, years. or did not speak up for Interest in Spears has what was right. I under- been renewed by the re- stand that I fell short in lease of the New York these moments and in Times documentary, many others and bene- which examines how fited from a system that Spears has been treated condones misogyny and throughout her career. racism. It has led to criticism of “I specifically want to Timberlake and other apologise to Britney figures including journal- Spears and Janet ist Diane Sawyer, who Jackson both individu- told Spears during a ally, because I care for 2003 interview she had and respect these women “disappointed a lot of and I know I failed. I also mothers”, and gossip feel compelled to respond, blogger Perez Hilton, who in part, because everyone was involved in the cover- involved deserves better age of her 2007 break- and most importantly, be- down. cause this is a larger con- The film also goes into versation that I whole- detail about the singer’s heartedly want to be part conservatorship, a legal of and grow from. arrangement that has “The industry is given her father Jamie flawed. It sets men, espe- Spears control over her cially white men, up for career and financial af- success. It’s designed this fairs since 2008. way.As a man in a privi- However on Thursday, leged position I have to a judge upheld a previous be vocal about this. ruling that made a finan- Because of my ignorance, cial company a co-conser- I didn’t recognise it for all vator for the singer, and that it was while it was rejected Mr Spears’ re- happening in my own life quest to keep his previ- but I do not want to ever ous level of power over benefit from others being his daughter’s invest- pulled down again. ments. 30 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 31

SSununddaayy A Addvvococatatee C Comicsomics 32 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

SSununddaayy A Addvvococatatee C Comicsomics The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 33 SPORTSSPORTS Cornwall leads the way LED by a five-wicket haul by off-spin With the pitch giving a bit more bounce bowler Rahkeem Cornwall the West than the first one they played on in Indies have placed themselves in a Chattogram he created pressure with his great position to push for victory in bowling plan but does not rate one five- the second Test match in wicket haul above any other as all are Bangladesh. important. The home side started the day on 105 “I think all five wickets are important for four in reply to the West Indies 409- to help my team bowl out Bangladesh.We run first innings total but in the post tea have to bat properly tomorrow and set up session Bangladesh crumbled and lost the game for the fifth day.” four wickets for just 15 runs to post 296 Cornwall was well supported by all out and hand West Indies a first Shannon Gabriel who despite over innings lead of 113 runs. stepping a number of times finished with Once again it was discipline that 70/3 and Alzarri Joseph finished on 60-2. helped the West Indies extract what was The wickets Cornwall took included needed on the third day of the match Mushfiqur Rahim (54), Mohammad with Cornwall 74/5 off his 32 overs Mithun (15), Liton Das (71) and Nayeem accounting for the wicket of most of the Hasan (0). middle order batsmen. West Indies had slipped to 41/3 by Cornwall said that his bowling plan stumps with a number of soft dismissals came after a meeting with the bowling leaving Nkrumah Bonner and night- coach who told him to back his skills and watchman Jomel Warrican undefeated put the ball in the right areas for a long in the middle. period of time and you will be successful. As the West Indies go in search of a “The spin is not what I expected but it possible victory Cornwall said that he bounce a but more and getting the thinks “anything over 400 will be good West Indies’ Nkrumah Bonner (right) with teammate Jomel Warrican walks back bounce I just feed off of it and creating and will be hard to get and we will be able to the pavilion after end of play on third day of the second Test cricket match that energy and put the balls in the right to attack from there and run at between West Indies and Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket areas.” Bangladesh.” (CG) Stadium in Dhaka in February 13, 2021. Rohit Sharma’s 161 puts hosts on top in Chennai ENGLAND were given a stark reminder of the challenge of touring India by Rohit Sharma’s classy 161 on day one of the second Test. Opener Rohit displayed some sparkling strokeplay to help the hosts to 300-6 on an absorbing, entertaining and occasionally bizarre day in Chennai. After a magnificent victory in the first Test, England suffered the disadvantage of losing the toss and are in line to bat last on a dusty pitch already showing sharp turn and some uneven bounce. Impressive pace bowler Olly Stone had Shubnam Gill lbw with the ninth ball of the day and India were 86-3 when Moeen Ali bowled a stunned Virat Kohli for a duck. However, Rohit was joined by Ajinkya Rahane, who made a solid 67, for a stand of 162 that was ended when Rohit top- edged spinner Jack Leach to deep square leg. That sparked a fightback that England’s perseverance deserved – the tourists took three wickets for 36 runs in the final session. However, at some point they will be faced with the task of batting themselves into this match against a trio of India Rohit Sharma’s seven Test centuries have all come on Indian soil. spinners that will be afforded plenty of assistance. Kohli was bowled by Moeen’s classical second morning. ball to drop short of slip, and he was England were almost faultless in their off-break. Rohit leads India fightback noticeably nervous in the 90s, but these 227-run win on the same ground in the Driving loosely out of the rough at his Rohit is a supremely talented master of were minor faults in a wonderful innings. first Test, but would have been well fifth ball, Kohli was beaten through the the white-ball game but has yet to hit Rahane provided valuable support, aware that things were unlikely to have gate and stood bewildered as England those heights in Test cricket – he had mixing sound defence with deft touches remained straightforward for the rest of celebrated, only departing after replays passed fifty only once in his previous five and hurrying between the wickets. the four-Test series. confirmed the ball had taken the off bail. matches. Just as they looked to be batting India With conditions and the toss in India’s With England on top, Rohit and Here he instantly looked in supreme out of sight, both perished. First, Rohit, favour, the hosts were also buoyed by a Rahane wrested control and, even after touch, scoring freely as most of those who could have been stumped moments crowd officially given as 9 000, the first they were dismissed, there was still time around him struggled to handle the earlier if the TV umpire had access to time the England men’s team have for Rishabh Pant to attack the England conditions. more camera angles, miscued a sweep played an international in front of bowling. He played drives, sweeps and pulls, off Leach to Moeen at deep square leg. spectators in almost a year. Pant overturned being given caught dominating a second-wicket stand of 85 One run later, Rahane – the beneficiary Those in attendance were treated to a behind off Joe Root on 22 and his with Cheteshwar Pujara and reaching when a review inexplicably failed to masterclass from Rohit, yet perhaps the continued presence – he is unbeaten on fifty in only 47 balls. detect a glove to short leg – was bowled most memorable moment came when 33 – is a severe danger to England on the Rohit gloved Leach on 41, only for the aiming a guilty swipe at Moeen. 34 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

ISSA forced to push ‘Champs’ date to late April A CLASH with the dates for the Jamaica International Invitational (JII) Meet, a World Athletics Continental Tour event, has forced the organisers of the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Boys’ and Girls’ Athletics Championships to switch dates to late April. This would be the third set of dates that have been proposed for the five-day championships that the organisers are seeking to put on after they were cancelled last year due to the onset of COVID-19. Keith Wellington, president of ISSA, told the Jamaica Observer yesterday that during a meeting of the Champs committee held earlier in the day, “the decision was taken today to abandon the plans for Champs to be held at the end of March and we would revert to April 27- May 1, 2021”. Originally,ISSA had set March 23-27 as the dates for Champs, but given uncertainty about the situation, had May 4-8 as alternate dates, in the event the March dates were not feasible. “When we checked with the JAAA (Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association), May 8 is set for the JII meet and that is a fixed date for the JAAA and World Athletics,” ISSA said. The extension to COVID-19 protocols under the Disaster Risk Management Act that prohibits gatherings of more than Brittany Anderson of Vere Technical High clears a hurdle on her way to victory in a new Champs record time in this file ten persons and which would hinder photo. training and the staging of track and field meets also played a part in the decision. qualified for Champs, would be too short,” COVID-19 cases over the last week saw a cases that saw just under 2 350 new cases “We took the decision based on the fact Wellington added. quick turnaround on that decision and between February 3-11, saying, “In that we have not started any development Earlier in the month, the Government the Government tightening restrictions addition, with the current spike in the meets and therefore the preparation had announced plans to lift the for another two weeks, ending February [COVID-19] numbers we wanted to give period for the athletes to finalise their restrictions preventing the restart of 26. it a few weeks to see if the numbers will preparations, and to be able to get sports, but a dramatic increase in new Wellington pointed to the upsurge in settle down.” Tokyo Olympics chief quits, apologises again over sexist remarks TOKYO – Tokyo 2020 Olympics chief Shinzo Abe championed a policy of Yoshiro Mori resigned on Friday and “Womenomics” but activists and many apologised again for sexist remarks that women say Japan still has a long way to sparked a global outcry, leaving the go – especially in the workplace. troubled Olympics searching for a chief Mori sparked a furore when he said five months from the opening ceremony. during an Olympic committee meeting The resignation of the 83-year-old this month that women talk too much. He former prime minister further erodes initially refused to step down. confidence in organisers’ ability to pull off “My inappropriate comments caused the postponed Summer Games during a big trouble. I’m sorry,” Mori said on Friday, coronavirus pandemic. adding the most important thing was the A selection committee made up of an success of the Tokyo Games. equal number of men and women, and Mori again fanned the flames on centred around athletes, would choose a Thursday by asking the mayor of the new president for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Village, 84-year-old Saburo organising committee, the group’s chief Kawabuchi, to take over the job. That executive Toshiro Muto told a news triggered widespread public dismay about conference. the post going to another octogenarian “We need to pick the next president man and media later reported that urgently,” Muto said, without saying Kawabuchi turned the job down. Tokyo 2020 Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori, left, resigned on Friday. when. The new president needed “We can’t give the impression that experience in the Olympics or things have changed unless we install a media said. Born just days before the 1964 The controversy has done “serious Paralympics and a “really high-level woman or see a generational shift,” a Tokyo Olympics opened, her first name is reputational damage” to the Tokyo understanding” of gender equality, government source told Broadcaster Fuji based on the Japanese word for the Olympics, said one source involved in the diversity and inclusion, he said. News Network. Olympic flame. Games, requesting anonymity due to the The issue has focused global attention Seiko Hashimoto, a pioneering female Hashimoto said she had not been asked sensitivity of the matter and adding that on gender disparity in the world’s third- lawmaker and seven-time Olympian, was to replace Mori and that Japan would stay many officials want a woman to replace largest economy.Former Prime Minister among the candidates to replace Mori, focused on preparations. Mori. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 35

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool’s Premier League title defence is over LIVERPOOL’S title defence is over, goal in the 81st minute. said manager Jurgen Klopp after his James Maddison had equalised for side’s late capitulation at Leicester Leicester three minutes earlier before resulted in their fifth loss in seven Harvey Barnes added a third five minutes games. from time. That was the seventh goal The Reds were 1-0 up with 12 minutes Liverpool had conceded in their past two of the 90 remaining before a succession of Premier League games – as many as they errors saw them lose 3-1. had conceded in their previous ten. The They are fourth, 13 points behind Reds have now conceded 32 goals in 24 leaders Manchester City, who have a league games this season, just one fewer game in hand. than they did in the whole of 2019-20. Klopp said: “I don’t think we can close “We have to win football games and big the gap. We are not worrying about the parts of the football were really good,” title, we are not silly.” said Klopp, whose side lost a third Klopp frustrated by Foxes’ ‘offside’ equaliser. His team have 24 fewer points than consecutive league game for the first time they had at this stage last season, with since November 2014. any more. four after romping to the Premier League injuries, particularly in defence, taking “We scored a great goal but conceded a “Klopp has lost defenders and taken title last season would have been treated their toll on the team. strange one and I think it’s offside, and two midfielders out into the defence.That as a laughing matter at the start of the The Reds lost key Dutch central the [goal for] 2-1 is a misunderstanding. is four changes from the team who did so season. defender Virgil van Dijk to a long-term That had too big an impact on the game. well and he doesn’t need to do that. It is And yet this, after another calamitous injury in October and have also been We had to show a different reaction, and too many. late collapse, is where they now find without England’s Joe Gomez, while the the third we gave away too easily.” “Without Gomez and Van Dijk they themselves. The Reds are in a genuine club announced earlier in February that “We have to avoid mistakes and have one hand tied behind their backs. dogfight to achieve what would have been Cameroonian Joel Matip would miss the misunderstandings. Today we didn’t do The wheels have come off. Klopp needs to a very minimum aim. rest of the campaign with an ankle that.The rest of the game was really good. get that position sorted.” Liverpool, bluntly, have not been good ligament problem. First we have to perform again – results Former England international Karen enough and the manner in which they This prompted a recruitment drive are massively related to the Carney: “It is the defence – they are not shrunk after Leicester’s contested during the January transfer window,with performance.” comfortable. Midfielder Jordan equaliser would have been an alarming two defenders brought in. ‘The wheels have come off’ – pundits Henderson on the left, a new centre-back, sight to those used to seeing them bully One of those was Turkish player Ozan react to Liverpool’s slump and goalkeeper Alisson completely teams into submission with talent and Kabak, on loan from Schalke, who made Former Arsenal defender Martin unnerved. Because they were nervy at intensity in recent years. his debut against the Foxes on Saturday Keown on BBC’s Final Score: “That the back that is why they fall apart. They possess enough quality to bounce and was one half of the club’s 17th centre- central defensive position is where the "Who would have thought Liverpool back, not for the title because that has back partnership this season. He was problems lie. Alisson is obviously would be fighting for the top four?” gone, but the top four – but they need to involved in a mix-up with goalkeeper massively at fault, but he is having to The idea that Liverpool would have a do it quickly otherwise the hole they are Alisson that led to the home side’s second help out with a defence he doesn’t trust fight on their hands to finish in the top currently in will get deeper. Leicester City come from behind to inflict third straight loss on Liverpool LEICESTER CITY staged an astonishing late comeback to beat Liverpool as the Premier League champions collapsed and paid the price for another defensive calamity involving keeper Alisson. Liverpool looked to be cementing their top-four aspirations when Mohamed Salah put them ahead after 67 minutes with a clever finish after a piece of individual brilliance in the penalty area by Roberto Firmino. Leicester – who were not at their best even though Jamie Vardy missed two glorious first-half chances – suddenly bounced off the canvas to sink the champions with three goals in a chaotic seven-minute period. The Foxes saw a 78th-minute penalty award ruled out by the video assistant referee and even though James Maddison’s resulting free-kick found its way into the net past Alisson it was initially ruled out for an offside against Daniel Amartey before being given after Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson (second right) was involved in another defensive calamity following his mistakes against a VAR check. Manchester City last week. Leicester’s second three minutes later was another horror show for Liverpool wounds as Harvey Barnes applied a setback. Vardy headed straight at Alisson and keeper Alisson, whose poor clearances composed finish to Wilfred Ndidi’s pass Jurgen Klopp’s side are struck the bar with two chances he contributed to two goals in Manchester with five minutes left. unrecognisable from the overpowering would normally have taken. City’s win at Anfield last Sunday. This Leicester go second while Liverpool’s combination of talent and concrete-clad There was an element of controversy time the Brazilian recklessly dashed out third successive league defeat means self-belief that swept aside all surrounding Maddison’s equaliser for to clear Youri Tielemans’ long ball, only their place in the top four looks in peril. challengers last season to win their first Leicester but it was the lack of response to farcically crash into debutant Liverpool’s unimpressive defence of title in 30 years. – a total capitulation, in fact – that will defender Ozan Kabak, leaving Vardy to their Premier League title suffered more The Reds had plenty of possession, be of huge concern to Klopp as his side run the ball into an empty net. embarrassment as they cast aside a without much punch, until Salah put lost a third successive league game for And Brendan Rodgers watched the position of relative control at Leicester them ahead – and the warning signs the first time since November 2014, Foxes rub salt in his former side’s to capitulate at the first sign of a had been posted in the first half when when Rodgers was in charge. 36 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

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Fun over, back to work for Elliott at Daytona 500 THERE are perks that Motor Speedway this year, come with winning but teaming up with perhaps the biggest is Brazilians Pipo Derani and the freedom to try new former-Formula One things and NASCAR driver Felipe Nasr and champion Chase Elliott British former-IndyCar enjoyed a close season winner Mike Conway in indulging himself from the Action Express Racing racing on dirt tracks to Cadillac for the 24 Hours of featuring in the Daytona. Disney/Pixar Cars That race along with franchise. driving on dirt at the Chili However, it is back to Bowl and a run in the work this week as a new Snowball Derby were all NASCAR season kicks off learning experiences for today with the Daytona Elliott, little building 500 and Elliott bidding to blocks that might help him join his father Bill as a one day win big races. winner of the “Great “It’s stuff I have had American Race”. interest in for the past Only a few have made number of years and just the Daytona 500 a family happened the affair. opportunities fell right for Lee Petty won the first me to do them all this Daytona 500 in 1959, his winter,” said Elliott, adding son “The King” Richard if given the opportunity Petty came first a record presents itself he would seven times. love to test himself in Bobby and son Davey Formula One and IndyCar. Allison also found their NASCAR Cup Series driver Chase Elliott (9) celebrates winning the Xfinity 500 at Martinsville Speedway. “Each discipline can way to Victory Lane as did teach you some different Dale Earnhardt and Dale anything better than a the end of the day down damage at the end and if first five attempts and things. It doesn’t hurt to try Earnhardt Jr. 14th place finish. here, a lot of wrecks and you can achieve those two looking forward to another new things, something Twice Chase Elliott has “(I) Would love to have a not so good finishes,” Elliott things you’ll have a shot at one and be around there at outside your comfort zone. put his Hendrick better effort and better told Reuters. the win. the end.” “You can pick up on Motorsport entry on pole results in the 500. We “Would love to be on the “Two things I haven’t Elliott got some early small stuff here and there but has never managed haven’t done very well at lead lap and not have any done a good job of in my laps in at the Daytona you might take with you.” 38 • Sunday February 14, 2021 The Barbados Advocate

Nuggets rally from 19 down to dump Thunder NIKOLA JOKIC had 22 Jackson’s three-point points, 13 rebounds play and three-pointer and nine assists, Jamal extended the lead back to Murray also scored 22 79-67 but Diallo’s points, and the host goaltending on Murray’s Denver Nuggets beat desperation heave from the Oklahoma City half-court at the buzzer Thunder 97-95 on made it 79-70 heading Friday night. into the fourth. Michael Porter Jr. The lead was ten before scored 15 points, Paul Monte Morris hit a lay-up Millsap added 12 and Will and a three-pointer and Barton ten for Denver. Millsap also scored on a Justin Jackson scored lay-up. Horford split a pair 20 points, Hamidou Diallo of free throws for the and Al Horford added 16 Thunder, but Millsap’s each and Luguentz Dort lay-up made it 83-81. finished with 15 for the Dort and Diallo hit Thunder. consecutive lay-ups and Oklahoma City Diallo made two free withstood an early second- throws to stretch the half surge by the Nuggets advantage to eight with to go up 66-51 on a three- about 4 1/2 minutes left. Nikola Jokic had 22 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists, Jamal Murray also scored 22 points, and the host pointer by Kenrich Murray hit a floater in Denver Nuggets beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 97-95 on Friday night. Williams about midway the lane and Barton through the third. Porter drained a three-pointer to one-point game, and after deep on the ensuing free throws with 16.5 many as 19 late in the first scored nine points and get the Nuggets within 89- a shot clock violation by possession, and Barton seconds left to pull the half, but Jokic scored Millsap had four in a 13-4 86 with 3:17 left. Oklahoma City,Jokic hit a drained a three-pointer to Thunder within 93-91, but seven of his 16 first-half run that got Denver Both teams had empty 15-footer to give Denver give the Nuggets a 93-89 the Nuggets were able to points in the final minutes within six late in the possessions before Porter’s its first lead with 1:21 left. lead with 42 seconds left. finish it at the line. to help the Nuggets get quarter. short jumper made it a Horford missed from Darius Bazley hit two The Thunder led by as within 53-40 at the break. The Barbados Advocate Sunday February 14, 2021 • 39

Daniil Medvedev wins despite coach walking out DANIIL MEDVEDEV’S coach walked and usually it doesn’t help me to play good,” out as the Russian blew a two-set lead he said. before winning a five-setter for the “Now I think I have made big steps first time in the Australian Open third already working on my mental strengths.” round. There are no crowds at the tournament The fourth seed eventually beat Filip after the state of Victoria entered an Krajinovic 6-3 6-3 4-6 3-6 6-0. emergency five-day lockdown on Saturday. Medvedev repeatedly yelled at his box as Medvedev will play Mackenzie he went 4-1 down in the fourth – with McDonald next after the American beat coach Gilles Cervara eventually picking Lloyd Harris of South Africa 7-6 (9-7) 6-1 up his bag and leaving. 6-4. He did not return to see Medvedev dial Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas also back in to dominate the deciding set. advanced, beating Mikael Ymer of Sweden “He said just before leaving that he’s 6-4 6-1 6-1. sure I’m going to win the match, but he’s He will play eighth seed Matteo going to leave to let me be more calm,” Berrettini after the Italian edged out Medvedev said of Cervara’s exit. Karen Khachanov of Russia 7-6 (7-1) 7-6 (7- “Sometimes maybe I will disagree but 5) 7-6 (7-5). this time for sure it was a good thing to do. Casper Ruud became the second “Today it helped, and definitely we’re Norwegian man – after his father, going to talk about it a little bit, but there Christian – to reach the fourth round of a is not a big deal.” Grand Slam. Ruud beat Moldova’s Radu Medvedev, among the favourites to Albot 6-1 5-7 6-4 6-4 and will play Andrey challenge defending champion Novak Daniil Medvedev’s coach walked out while the Russian struggled in the fourth set. Rublev next after the Russian seventh seed Djokovic, yelled in French, Russian and beat Feliciano Lopez of Spain 7-5 6-2 6-3. English as the match against the Serb He received a medical time-out in the attention for his on-court antics. Ruud’s father reached the fourth round slipped from his grasp. fourth set after complaining of buttock pain He was booed throughout the US Open of the 1997 Australian Open. He also complained about the spider- and then went on to win the final set in 2019 where he reached the final, and he Rafael Nadal beat Britain’s Cameron camera at Melbourne Park, saying it was without dropping a game in just 25 later admitted that the crowd spurred him Norrie in straight sets to set up a fourth- obstructing his toss on serve, and at one minutes. on. round meeting with Fabio Fognini, who point shouted: “This Australian Open Medvedev, who won the season-ending “Sometimes I’m a very temperamental ousted Alex de Minaur of Australia 6-4 6- sucks.” ATP Finals in 2020, has often caught person on the court so it can still get out, 3 6-4. Rafael Nadal beats Cameron Norrie to reach fourth round RAFAEL NADAL beat an impressive but there was no stopping the Spaniard Norrie played well, saving six of the 12 able to up his quality when it mattered Cameron Norrie to reach the Australian when he upped his tempo. break points he faced, but although he to win in two hours 15 minutes. Open fourth round and end British Nadal showed occasional hints on serve would get to 0-30 on the Nadal serve he Norrie was the last Briton standing in interest in the singles competition. of a back problem that has bothered him could not find a way through. the singles for a second Grand Slam in a Spanish second seed Nadal was able to since his arrival in Australia but he His early break was cancelled out row, after he reached the third round of see off his spirited 69th-ranked opponent moved and hit freely. straight away by Nadal and a tight first the US Open in September. 7-5 6-2 7-5. “I combined very good games with a set ended with a long forehand from the There are still British hopes in the Playing on an empty Rod Laver Arena couple of unforced errors that I need to British number three. doubles, led by Jamie Murray and Joe after Melbourne entered lockdown, fix,” Nadal said. He was able to hang in with Nadal on Salisbury, and the wheelchair events, Nadal was not at his rhythmic best but “That is normal and hopefully that will the long rallies, saving break points to which start on Sunday. he held off a confident-looking Norrie. help me for what’s coming on Monday,” start the second and third set, but It was a shame for Norrie that there The 20-time Grand Slam champion Nadal added. Nadal’s extra pace, particularly on the was no crowd present for his first will play Italy’s Fabio Fognini next. Nadal has yet to drop a set in forehand, broke through his defences. meeting with one of the sport’s ‘big three’ Norrie claimed the first break of the Melbourne despite being, by his own Nadal grew frustrated at times with – Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger match and hung in well against Nadal, admission, not near his best. the odd shot drifting long, but he was Federer. Injured Djokovic’s Australian Open record bid hangs in balance MELBOURNE – The Australian Open from that in less than two days. I don’t rolls on amid a Melbourne lockdown, but know (if) I’m going to step out on to the the tournament risks losing its greatest court or not,” Djokovic said after a match champion in the first week as fans wait with Fritz. to hear if Novak Djokovic will be fit to His next opponent, Canadian Milos play today. Raonic, may not complain however, Djokovic suffered a muscle tear in his having lost all 11 times he has played third-round, five-set epic against Taylor Djokovic, the most recent being the final Fritz, and the world number one skipped of the rescheduled Cincinnati practice on Saturday in a bid to recover tournament last August. in time to resume his quest for a record- Third seed Dominic Thiem may have extending ninth title at Melbourne Park. hoped to have the crowd back on his side Withdrawing from the tournament after dispatching home favourite Nick would be devastating for the defending Kyrgios in a five-set thriller, but instead Serbia’s Novak Djokovic during his third round match against Taylor Fritz of the champion who has won 17 Grand Slams he will face Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in US. in all, especially after his fourth-round an empty Rod Laver Arena. disqualification in the US Open last year An action-packed women’s schedule time the pair have met on court – while seeking her first hard court major, will be when he accidentally hit a ball at a line will have US Open champion Naomi Serena Williams is up against feisty tested by reigning French Open judge. Osaka take on two-times Grand Slam Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka. champion Iga Swiatek, who has yet to “I don’t know if I’ll manage to recover winner Garbine Muguruza – the first Romanian second seed Simona Halep, drop a set at the tournament. Cornwall leads the way Page 33

Sunday February 14, 2021 INFORMATION PUSH SENIOR Agricultural audience at Tuesday’s Much more needs to occur to based right now and I be- ally, maybe a year from Officer, Glenn Barbados Water lieve that would be a now, we can get back to Marshall acknowl- Authority (BWA) virtual inform farmers about new policy major platform going into more face-to-face meet- edges there is still Town Hall Meeting. He the future but it cannot ings but the Ministry of more to be done to ed- was one of the panellists this is something that formed about the new be the only means of get- Agriculture as well the ucate farmers and responding to questions will take a period of Policy, which has stricter ting across the message [Barbados] Water other stakeholders posed by the public about time.” controls of chemical to the farmers and other Authority, Public Works about the proposed the Green Paper on the He added while conced- usage and disposal in- interest.” and others, we will still 2020 Water Protection Policy. ing the limitations of vir- cluding agrochemicals. He continued, “There is have to sit down and and Land Use Zoning “We acknowledge we tual meetings that efforts “The ministry’s F.E.E.D GIS [Government come up with a compre- Policy. don’t have a roll out will have to be made to [farmers’ Empowerment Information Service] and hensive interaction pack- The Ministry of programme yet but we develop a comprehensive and Enfranchisement CBC [Caribbean age for farmers and oth- Agriculture official stated acknowledge that it interaction package so Drive] Programme train- Broadcasting ers, that is acknowl- this as he addressed the will be essential and that more farmers will be in- ing activities are online Corporation] and eventu- edged.”(MG) Children’s well-being key during pandemic UNICEF has once again the webinar. called attention to the To date, data offered by matter of the well-being of UNICEF shows that nu- students given prolonged merous children are at school closures, the signif- risk of falling behind due icant strain occurring in to school closures, aimed some cases with the learn- at containing the spread ing progress and the spin- of COVID-19. To keep the off effects that could result. world’s children learning, Youssouf Abdel-Jelil, countries, including UNICEF Deputy Regional Barbados, have been im- Director for Latin America plementing remote educa- and the Caribbean has tion programmes. Yet noted that some children many of the world’s chil- could also be at risk for en- dren – particularly those tering into child labour, as in poorer households – do their care givers lose valu- not have internet access, able income due to job personal computers, TVs losses, on account of the or even radio at home, am- ongoing COVID-19 pan- plifying the effects of ex- demic. His comments isting learning inequali- came during a webinar ties. UNICEF has also held recently for the noted that while more Regional Launch of the than 90 per cent of coun- International Year for the tries have adopted digital Elimination of Child and/or broadcast remote Labour (2021). learning policies, only 60 “UNICEF is committed per cent have done so for to providing continuity in pre-primary education. the learning process for Here in Barbados, offi- children and adolescents, cials at the Ministry of as well as highlighting the Education, Technological impact on the present and and Vocational Training future development of have recognised that hav- those living in the most ing an electronic device to vulnerable households,” assist with online instruc- Abdel-Jelil stated. tion in the new teaching “At UNICEF, we are learning environment is committed to working key for each and every stu- with all of you, govern- dent, and has been work- ments, civil society,the pri- ing assiduously to ensure vate sector, to put an end each child has one and GEARED UP & ON THE GO! Barbadians have been adapting to the reality of the COVID-19 to child labour in the that vulnerable children pandemic and have been taking precautions to protect themselves in public spaces from the disease. Americas and globally,” he also have access to the The Barbados Advocate was on hand to capture this duo, who made sure that they were well protected told key personnel during Internet. (RSM) as they moved around in public.

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