FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE153 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG COVID SECOND WAVE HURTS TOURISM STORY ON PAGE 3

Photo credit: Justin Peters Photography

RALPH GONSALVES WINS FIFTH TERM IN SVG FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 2 Editorial WE ARE ALL INVOLVED There have been two an- to protect the health and safety firmed cases to a minimum. nouncements over the past of its people. This has serious consequences week that ought to give us all With this,we return to the is- for every citizen and resident pause as it relates to our be- sue at hand; our behavior and of Antigua and Barbuda and havior individually and collec- attitude toward the health and impacts the country’s economic tively regarding the COVID-19 safety protocols established by recovery. pandemic. the Ministry of Health which are LIAT’s recent return to oper- First, Air Canada announced legislated by the Parliament. ation was greatly anticipated that it was postponing its re- The prime minister and his gov- and scheduled flights were due turn to Antigua and Barbuda ernment, along with the Chief to begin next week, however, because of the recent uptick Medical Officer, have utilised if Caribbean countries place in COVID-19 cases in Canada. both traditional and new media each other on high risk lists and The airline’s return to Antigua outlets to convey the message others decide not to observe and Barbuda was scheduled of the importance of adhering CARPHA-approved regulations, for November 1, but now there to the health protocols, espe- there is likely to be confusion is no firm date when the coun- cially concerning the wearing that could negatively affect LI- try will begin welcoming direct of masks, social distancing and AT’s operation. flights from Canada. This comes personal hygiene. Restrictions This possibility should not sit as a great disappointment of have also been placed on so- lightly with Antiguans and Bar- local tourism officials. cial gatherings in an attempt to budans. On Tuesday the situation was curtail the spread of the virus. Antigua and Barbuda’s tour- further compounded when Bar- The local resurgence of coro- ism sector took a severe beat- bados announced that it was navirus cases have all been ing with the premature closure placing Antigua and Barbuda linked to individuals who have of the cruise and hotel indus- on its ‘high risk’ list because of violated these protocols. tries in March. We have been recent uptick in confirmed cas- The takeaway from this should fortunate in that some hotels es here. This was despite the be that individual acts that ex- have reopened with others fact that Antigua and Barbu- pose the general population to planning to do so by the end da has not exceeded twelve infection with COVID-19 cannot of November. This would mean active cases at the same time be misconstrued as isolated that thousands of people - our once. Of these, 39 cases were instances of ignorance. Every- brothers, sisters, aunts and un- imported on two flights which thing is connected. When the cles - will return work. arrived on the same day at the number of cases climbs, the All this, however could be V. C. Bird International Airport. potentially harmful statistics are jeopardised, if our confirmed Despite the fact that active shared internationally. The eyes cases continue to rise because cases have largely hovered be- of the world are upon us and of our collective failure to ad- low ten, Barbados unilaterally it would seem to appear that here to health protocols. acted in a manner which vi- some persons are ignorant of This is a time for serious intro- olates the latest recommenda- the fact that the number of ac- spection in which we must each tions of the Caribbean Public tive cases has just as great an ask the question, “Do I want to Health Agency (CARPHA). W,e impact, if not more so, than the contribute to undermining my however, recognize that as a overall number of confirmed country’s efforts toward achiev- sovereign government, Barba- cases. ing economic recovery?” dos acted within the scope of It behooves us, therefore, to its authority to implement any become personally invested in measures it deems necessary keeping the number of con- FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

LocalNews PAGE 3 COVID second wave hurts tourism in A&B The resurgence of the happening there,” he revealed. son hoping that we will soon be COVID-19 virus in the major tour- According to De Brito, Brit- returning to some sense of nor- ism source markets for Antigua ish Airways and Virgin Atlantic mality. We are also concerned and Barbuda is already being are expected to make an an- about the outcome of the US felt in the local tourism sector. nouncement on their schedule in elections as it may portend General Manager of the Blue the coming days. This move by whether or not that country goes Waters Hotel and former Pres- the airlines will likely last until the into a stricter lockdown and re- ident of the Hotel Association, middle of December when the strict travel as well. It is quite Alex De Brito, has reported that UK emerges from the lockdown. concerning,” De Brito cautioned. most hotels began to reopen Up to Thursday afternoon, An- De Brito did, however, report from October 15 with the expec- tigua and Barbuda hotel officials one bright spot in an otherwise tation all would be back in busi- were engaged in meetings with gloomy situation: some UK visi- ness by the end of the month, representatives of Virgin Atlantic tors brought forward their travel however, just a few weeks into to determine the way forward. plans which caused them to ar- the season, the sector now fac- The hotelier said several resorts rive in the Antigua and Barbuda ing cancellations because of new plan to remain open although it ahead of the announcement of lockdowns in the United King- is likely that they will lose money. the most recent UK lockdown. dom where that government has “We don’t want a situation While he was unable to give banned all non-essential travel. where we are forced to close precise figures, De Brito not- “In the next few days, we are so soon after reopening, no- ed that these individuals said anticipating that the major air- body wants a repeat of the they preferred to spend their lines serving the UK market will lockdown that we experienced time on vacation in Antigua announce their reduction, or earlier in the year,” he said. and Barbuda and wait out even elimination of flights to the “We were just getting excited the lockdown at home here. Caribbean, because of what’s about the prospects for the sea- FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 4 LocalNews No formal charges laid against rape accused minister

By Shelton Daniel was a foregone conclusion that the whether he had not, in contradiction Prime Minister Gaston Browne has accused would have to resign until of that position, acted precipitous- reaffirmed that any member of his the charges are dropped or the case ly by removing former minister Asot Cabinet who is formally charged with is decided in his favour. Michael from the Cabinet after he a serious or indictable crime must re- Prime Minister Browne said he had was arrested and detained in the UK sign while the matter is being deter- spoken to the rape accused minister about three years ago. mined. during this week’s Cabinet meeting Browne replied: “There are some The allegations surfaced last week- on Wednesday. He said the accused who may argue that the former min- end from a woman who according Cabinet member assured him and his ister was relieved of his position, or to reports is consulting with an at- colleagues of his innocence. at least asked to resign, when there torney. The head of government has Prime Minister Browne explained was no formal charge served against confirmed a private meeting was that he cannot demand the minister’s him but I can say to the public to- held between him and the minister, resignation at this stage, nor would day that, based on the information while further discussions took place he fire him, as police have, so far, not that I received from the British crime on Wednesday among his Cabinet charged him with an offense. Should agency, there was sufficient evidence colleagues. it progress to that stage, Browne said, to cause that type of action to take As the minister maintains his in- the minister knows what is expected place when I asked him to resign. I nocence, many are questioning why of him and what action will be taken know that the minister felt the de- the prime minister has not moved to if he does not conform voluntarily. cision was harsh, but again, I have relieve him of his duties. The prime minister said this policy information that the average person In the event their resignation is not position is in accordance with the in the public does not have and I am forthcoming, the head of government governing Antigua Barbuda Labour satisfied that based on the transcript has made clear that he will not hes- Party’s Code of Conduct to which all of the case, of certain discussions itate to have the accused minister’s members of his Cabinet subscribe. that the minister would have had with appointment revoked. “The minister maintains his inno- a certain investor, that there would Browne said he had received the cence and I am not here to deter- have been more than sufficient jus- information in a WhatsApp message mine whether he is innocent or guilty. tification for me to ask that minister and could not vouch for its verac- What I can say definitively to the to resign.” ity. He continued, however, that if people of Antigua and Barbuda, [is] Browne added that there is “suffi- the information was substantiated if charges are brought against him, cient cause to ensure that that min- and formal charges were preferred he has absolutely no other option but ister never serves in any government against the Cabinet minister, then it to resign voluntarily.” that I may lead”. The Prime Minister was asked FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

LocalNews PAGE 5 A&B engaging Barbados over its ‘high risk’ categorisation

Antigua and Barbuda is await- counterpart to seek an explanation. side of the CARPHA guidelines for ing word from Barbados regard- He explained that the Caribbe- the Caribbean travel bubble and ing its decision to place it on an Public Health Agency (CARPHA) it is a source of concern for the a list of ‘high risk’ countries from was mandated by CARICOM heads Antigua and Barbuda govern- which arriving visitors must un- of government to formulate guide- ment. Nicholas said he expects the dergo stricter health protocols. lines to facilitate regional travel. matter to go back to the CAR- A statement out of Barbados Nicholas said the new guide- ICOM heads who will be asked on Tuesday said high risk visitors lines were accepted by the heads to find a solution to the matter. are required to quarantine at a of government over two sessions, “The intention of the travel bub- designated hotel or approved vil- however, at least two countries, ble is to facilitate travel both for la at their own expense or free of Grenada and St. Kitts and Nevis, tourism and business purposes as charge at a government facility, up opted out of the regional ‘travel well as for the recovery of all of to the time of a second test, which bubble’ arrangement while Barba- our economies decimated by the will be four to five days after the dos decided to create its own crite- pandemic. We are in the process first test. At the end of the period, ria for allowing entry to the country. of reviving our economies while if they test negative, they will be “More importantly and more trou- at the same time finding ways to discharged from quarantine, but will blesome has been the action of live with the realities of COVID. We continue to be monitored for sev- Barbados which seems to have are not going to be able to wish en days from the time of arrival. come up with its own categorisation it away, but we are not going to Information Minister, Melford Nich- and included a number of Caribbe- be able to close our economies ei- olas, told the post-Cabinet press an states in its ‘high risk’ categori- ther thereby being full participants briefing that his colleague minister of sation, with Antigua and Barbuda in our demise,” he emphasised. Foreign Affairs, E. P. Chet Greene, has among them,” Nicholas added. been in contact with his Barbadian This move by Barbados falls out- FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 6 LocalNews PM Browne concerned over A&B’s ‘high risk’ classification

over LIAT, but that issue has passed and I think we both understand that we have to continue to work togeth- er in the interest of the region, and I know some people are concerned and I am too about the recent classi- fication of Antigua and Barbuda as a high risk country,” Browne said. Browne admitted that the Mia Mot- tley administration did not have an obligation to consult with Antigua and Barbuda before issuing the travel advisory and classification. He said, however, that justification for doing so must eb provided. The prime minister said that the Caribbean Public Health Agency’s (CARPHA’s) categorisation of a low risk state is one with less than 20 ac- tive cases. The United States has implement- ed its own standard which states that countries with less than 10 active COVID-19 cases are considered to be low risk. At present Antigua and Barbuda has recorded 130 laboratory con- firmed cases of COVID-19 and has only nine active cases. Prime Minister Browne believes, therefore that there Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Hon. Gaston Browne is justification for Barbados’s classifi- cation of Antigua and Barbuda. Prime Minister Gaston Browne says the classification was made without “In any case we will put it down as he is concerned about a recent Bar- evidence to support the claim. an oversight. I know that some peo- bados travel advisory which has Browne said that Antigua and Bar- ple are speculating it may be done classified Antigua and Barbuda as a buda has been collaborating and out of spite, but we do not hold that ‘high risk’ COVID-19 country. cooperating at the regional and position. We expect that all leaders Barbados placed Antigua and Bar- international levels with COVID-19 within the region to operate with the buda and 13 other countries on a list guidelines. level of maturity and probity that they of countries whose nationals are at He said he is not aware of any would not utilize the state apparatus high risk of carrying the coronavirus. reason as to why the government of to be turned into a form of dishones- The categorisation will affect persons Barbados would want to place An- ty or indecency. So we maintain that from these countries wishing to enter tigua and Barbuda in this category. it must be an oversight,” said Prime Barbados effective November 3. “So I am not aware that there is Minister Browne. PM Browne is of the opinion that any enmity. Yes, we had a difference FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 7 Scaled down Arbor Month activities launched

Minister of the Environment Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph cuts ribbon at handover ceremony of a solar power system to the Deportment of the Environment

On Thursday, the Ministry of opportunity for the department to November 2020 Health and the Environment interact with the public, which this • National Plant a tree day - launched Arbor month 2020 un- year will be done observing social 30 November 2020 der the theme “Ride the Climate distancing and other health pro- Additionally, the department will Wave: Adaptation for the future tocols. George also disclosed that participate in tree planting exer- generation”. many of the plans for this year cises at various schools in Antigua Environment Minister, Sir Molwyn had to be revised. and Barbuda. Joseph, and representatives from The activities for this year are; There was also a ceremony to the Department of Environment • Art competition (ongoing) - hand over a solar power system (DoE) participated in a brief cere- Deadline submission is the 9 that will meet 45% of DoEs daily mony to mark the occasion. November, power requirements. The ribbon “The Arbor Month activities have • Live talk (Virtual Platform via was cut by Sir Molwyn. The DoE been scaled down this year as a DOE’s Facebook page) - 12 has indicated that it plans to ex- result of COVID-19,” Senior Envi- November 2020 pand its reliance on renewable ronmental Officer, Daryl George • School Agro-Science Work- energy sources. stated. shop - 19 November 2020 He said Arbor Month offers an • Arbor Day Plant Fair - 26 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 8 LocalNews Michael Browne’s case against “Serpent” adjourned

Minister of Education Hon. Michael Browne Algernon “Serpent” Watts

Education Minister, Michael a new date for the hearing . the altercation. Browne, will have his day in Magistrate Clarke granted the A report was made to police, court next month when his request and the case will now and following investigations, Watts matter against radio host, be heard on December 14. was charged with assault and Algernon “Serpent” Watts, will be Browne alleges that he was making use of indecent and heard. assaulted by Watts on July 1, threatening language. Minister Browne is in self- 2019, after appearing on an The incident was reportedly quarantine having recently Observer Radio talk show at thewitnessed by employees of the returned home from the United station’s Redcliffe Street location. States. radio station, who are expected The education minister says he to be called upon to give Based on this information, the was verbally abused by Watts, evidence when the matter is prosecution requested that who also threatened him during Magistrate Conliffe Clarke grant heard. FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

Commentary PAGE 9

event triggers another similar event and then another, until there is a THE cascade of events that occur, all because of the first, precipitating event. The image is that of a line of DOMINO dominos, standing on end. Knock- ing over the first domino causes it EFFECT to knock over the second domino, Make no bones about it, Domi- and so on. In Jamaica, however, noes is an obsession in all but one and in my home and elsewhere, the of the islands and countries sur- Domino Effect is a positive - more rounding the Caribbean Sea and people locked in because of the comprising what Derek Walcott pandemic are playing the game called the “Antilles”. In fact, when with gusto and a great slamming it comes to Dominoes, there is no of boards and loud shouts of vic- lesser or greater and, even better, tory throughout the region. My wife no CARICOM involvement. From is Guyanese, my children are Bajan Belize to Venezuela, across to Su- who grew up in Belize and Antigua, riname and Guyana, Aruba across and we came straight out of the to Barbados, Martinique, Antigua, Monopoly jail to wrest instead of rest our bones in some cut-throat By Tony Deyal Cuba and the Bahamas, the most passionate of players are the Ja- Dominoes. Communication Special- My Jamaican friend was com- ist, Granville Newel, described this plaining about his first visit to Trini- maicans. For them, Dominoes is a way of life and sometimes of death. noisy, robust and almost obsessive dad where he was advised that if approach to the game, especially he wanted to stay in the country, According to a regional newspa- per headline, “Jamaicans’ love for in Jamaica, as contagious. He cited he had to become an expert on a visit to Jamaica, a few years ago, ‘All Fours’. He confessed that he dominoes: so strong it sometimes turns deadly.” Media reports over by the head of the International thought they were referring to a Domino Federation, Venezuelan Lu- sexual position and before getting the past few years include, “Two men shot dead while playing dom- cas Guittard who was immediate- down to it, he asked if it was taken ly impressed by the fervency and from the Kama Sutra so he could inoes in Clarendon”; “Man killed, friend wounded playing dominoes passion of the local players to the get some early lessons. They then point where he wanted to ‘import’ a explained that it was a card game in Westmoreland”; and “Jamaican man stabs cousin to death over few Jamaican nuances to his coun- and even though it had no link to try.” Unfortunately, the Venezuelan strip poker, he admitted to me he game in dominoes.” The question is whether the down- President does not only slam the was floored. “I hope you landed on table but also the jail-doors on his your feet and not on your stom- side is a purely Jamaican phenome- non based on the national psyche rivals. Instead of just shooting off ach,” I joked. He replied, “I asked his mouth, like most of the ardent them if they have any other game superheated by a very competitive team game that is played like war Dominators and even Domi-novices we could play and they said ‘Mo- do, he has af iring-squad. nopoly’. I tried it but when I won to the death among competing armies, or is it the game itself and When we try to rise above the ten dollars in a beauty contest, they shouting and the tumult, we have told me I was very lucky to do so what is known as The Domino Ef- fect? When one of my Trini friends to wonder if the breakup of the well. They implied that it to be more West Indies Federation and the un- than chance. That was it for me. I said that the Domino Effect is when pizza chains go bankrupt because heralded death of the West Indies then asked if they knew Dominoes Football team are all part of the and one of them replied, ‘Yes, I am of the COVID 19 lock-downs, I al- most choked to death on a dou- Domino Effect? If so, we have to a huge fan. They have the best piz- wonder how a game that is more za in Port-of-Spain.’ That was it for ble-six. The term, Domino effect, describes a situation in which one played and popular among all the me. I came back home.” Caribbean people and countries cont’d on pg 10 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 10 Commentary cont’d from pg 9 than cricket or football, can be mathematical inaccuracy by the art.” linked, if only in terms of the English first Trinidad Prime Minister, Dr. Eric Mine are even worse, especially Language, to the inability of those Williams, as “One from ten leaves when I’m playing. I have big hands countries to hang together rather nought”. In this case, even one and put the entire seven in my left than hanging separately. We can’t doubles from seven is also grudg- hand. They do not always remain blame the dominoes for, as Author ingly given. It is why, if politicians’ there and I get the inevitable hard S.B. Redd says, “And the game of minds were like dominoes, almost looks and even harder talk about dominoes is much like life: You got- all of them would be double-blanks. using both hands. I protest that I ta play the bones you’ve pulled. Fortunately, the Domino Effect am left-brained and cannot think, It doesn’t matter if you got seven does not have to be a negative plot and plan if I hold them in my doubles in your hand.” The differ- where “all fall down”. It is not only right hand. “Well de way you like ence between the Trini “All Fours” something bad that happens to to talk and make noise, you have lovers and Dominoes’ players is that you, your country or the world (like to be right-brain then,” one of my Trinis will see having seven doubles Trump) but it is something good Jamaican friends quipped to the in their hands as a God-send. It is you can create by sparking a chain applause of our UWI colleagues in not just the channa (chickpeas) and reaction of positive habits or be- Canada Hall. “Better than not hav- hot pepper, or the fried doughy haviours. Neil Farber writing in Psy- ing none,” I replied, and because of bread or barrah that sandwiches chology Today, explained that we the Domino Effect I had to duck a it, but the street vendors of the Tri- determine our goals and then be- left hand thrown right at my face. ni staple were recently forced into gin to lay out our dominoes. Every *Tony Deyal was last seen say- lockdown with the option of lock- domino is a goal. We alone deter- ing that because he is unprepared up by the Government if they were mine the pathway and the journey to lose every friend he has in the caught selling in the streets. It is an- to reach that final goal. He quotes game, he is accused of not taking other knock for the Trinis and might his daughter as saying, “My dom- his Dominoes seriously enough. This be the result of the Domino Effect inoes have been rearranged so makes him a pushover. described in political rhetoric and many times they look like abstract FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 EntertainmentPAGE 13 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 12 BERT KIRCHNER’S COVID-19 ARTISTIC EXPLOSION

PAGE 14 ARTIST PROFILE ISLAND PRINCE

PAGE 15 THE GREAT HOUSE

Entertainment correspondent: Mya Spencer FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 12 Entertainment BERT KIRCHNER’S COVID-19 ARTISTIC EXPLOSION A series of unusual becoming an artist Bert said that well received and noted that the circumstances has resulted in the he has always been drawn to the chief supporters for his exhibition enrichment of artwork production arts. He drew on his artistic were residents. Many people in Antigua and Barbuda. In most creativity while working as an commented on the quality of his challenging times for the interior designer and his artistic paintings and purchased a exploration of new commercial eye has been valuable in creating number of pieces. opportunities, Bert Kirchner movies. Pointe Entertainment also successfully entered another His recent adventures in art asked Bert for his thoughts on the

phase of his life and enriched the came about after a serious illness status of the arts domestically. He art scene. earlier in the year in which he was adamant that there is still a Pointe Entertainment spoke fainted and suffered a fall. long way to go. with Bert Kirchner on the final day “On recovery there was nothing “We need to further develop the of his COVID Art Exhibition in for me to do. I found an art artistic community and art English Harbour. He was jubilant painting set my daughter used to appreciation. It is pretty as he shared his journey as a paint with in school, and started important to develop the arts canvas artist with us. to paint a first painting, then the which is something we have Bert, who has lived in Antigua second one. It soon became an missed. We need to create more and Barbuda for the last forty-two obsession,” he said. of our own identity through all art years, has been involved in Bert confessed to being media, film, music, photography, various entrepreneurial pursuits. surprised at the work output. paintings and the other He is the owner of Papa Zouk, “I had really no idea it was in components.” Ambassador-at-Large, Film me.” The full interview with Bert Commissioner and film producer He has, since then, created Kirchner will be featured soon on with the production company scores of paintings which led to Pointe TV. Wadadli Film Studios. his two day exhibition in October. Reflecting on his path to Bert said his work has been cont’d on pg 13 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

Entertainment PAGE 13

cont’d from pg 12 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 14 Entertainment BERTARTIST PROFILE ISLAND PRINCE Pointe Entertainment recently got together with Island Prince, a young, talented and versatile Antiguan and Barbudan artist. He first came into public view after he won the 2019 Antigua Car- nival Junior Soca Monarch with ‘I Don’t Need’ and participated in the Junior Calypso competition with ‘Definition of the Poor’.

This year, he participated in the three major music competitions, the most recent being the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commis- sions Independence Calypso Monarch Competition in which he was the youngest competitor.

Island Prince shared his journey to date with us.

NAME: Dalik Dyer D.O.B: January 29th 2001 EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:Potters Primary - Kindergarten, St. Michael - Kindergarten – Grade 3, Mary E. Piggots - Grade 3 to Grade 6, Antigua Grammar School 2013-2018, ABHTI - Present HOBBIES? I play football for Pigotts Sports Club. I love turning it up in the kitchen and most definitely spending time with family and friends. WHY THE NAME ‘ISLAND PRINCE’? It’s a name I always wanted. I developed it myself for people to recognise me internationally. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BE A PART OF THE JUNIOR SOCA COMPETITION? I honestly always had a passion for singing and competing. I always told myself that one day I would compete once I had the right song at the right time. MENTOR? My father, the man himself, Dalton Dyer. WHY CALYPSO? As a youth I always had a love for calypso music and the art form calypso. After I entered the junior soca monarch, I decided to enter calypso as well to see how I would execute singing my own calypso music. WHAT INSPIRED YOUR FIRST SONG? Myf irst song was written by Destroyer Snr, titled ‘Poverty’. After receiving the song, I felt at home because a lot of people in our country are still experiencing poverty and it’s a sad situation which breaks my heart. Not only here in Antigua and Barbuda, but around the world. What was the public’s reaction? Well most of the reactions I got were very positive. Most comments suggested I had great diction, clarity, my dress code was on point and my performance was energizing. My future in the art form looks very bright. IS COVID-19 AFFECTING YOUR MUSIC? Yes, it is. I’m a new artist on the scene and my musical social media platform is not as popular as I would have liked. So basically, it is much more difficult for me to market myself online. Since I love interacting during performances and I won’t be able to do so due to COVID-19, and don’t get me started on me trying to market my music both locally and internationally, however, I am still trying my best to market myself although I can’t get to perform in front of a big crowd to get the exposure as a new artist. SHORT TERM GOAL: To educate the youths about positivity and to motivate them to do anything in life that inspires them. LONG TERM GOAL: To become an icon in my nation and place my home island on the international map as a breed- ing ground for versatile artists and musical talent. WORDS OF INSPIRATIONS:Dreams are not just dreams, they are a vision of a possible timeline you can accomplish. - Dalik Dyer FINAL WORDS: Just to let you know I’m no longer a junior after this year. Next year I will be competing with the big boys! FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

Entertainment PAGE 15 THE GREAT HOUSE

Set on the sweeping 26-acre estate meals while enjoying the beauty, seren- Our walk through of the property re- of Mercers Creek, The Great House ity and exclusivity of The Great House vealed four plantation suites equipped Antigua is the last remaining stone Antigua. with modern amenities, combined with plantation house on the island. It was The property’s owner, Janey Howell historic elegance and four garden cot- restored to operate as a boutique ho- gave Pointe Entertainment a tour of tage suites offering complete privacy tel and restaurant in the last quarter of the hotel in which we also had the surrounded by tropical gardens. It was 2019 after significant renovations and opportunity to sample the restaurant’s easy to immerse into the ambience expansion to the 350 year old proper- cuisine. Mrs. and facilities on offer and the dining ty which has retained many of its orig- Howell said lunch at The Great experience was superb. inal features. House Antigua is an immersive expe- The Great House offers staycation The property also boasts stunning rience. packages and weekend specials for is- sea views from the manicured estate “Guests are encouraged to wander landers at a rate of EC$1,250 per suite grounds which are covered with palm through our landscaped gardens and at double occupancy. The package in- trees. use our pool. We offer thef inest cui- cludes three meals, fruit drinks and use The Great House Antigua is a re- sine enjoyed in our most spectacular of the hotel’s many amenities. cent addition to the tourism product of setting.” Pointe Entertainment encourages the island. With the reopening of the She proudly added, “Our executive you to dip your toes into the wonders economy, the management introduced chef creates magnificent meals, using of The Great House Antigua! Sunday Lunch on October 11 in which the best seasonal Antiguan ingredi- guests can enjoy carefully prepared ents.” FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 16 RegionalNews Jamaica’s NWA launches clean-up after heavy rains (Jamaica Gleaner): The National are also being investigated, the to Haining. Works Agency (NWA) says it has NWA says. In Portland, landslips are being mobilised teams to clear roadways Meanwhile, in St. Thomas, the cleared at Alligator Church Bridge in St. Catherine that were affected agency says water has receded to Bellview and at Clear Spring, by rainfall Wednesday night. from roadways that were affected while a team has also been mobil- A section of the Bog Walk Gorge, by flooding yesterday. ised to remove fallen rocks at Blue as well as a section of the Vanity It says teams are currently work- Hole in the parish. Fair to Guys Hill roadway, which ing to clear affected roadways of The NWA is advising motorists were affected by landslips and silt and debris. to exercise caution while using the fallen boulders, are now being These roadways include the Al- roadways and to be cognisant that cleared. bion roadway, Morant Bay to Port surface conditions may have dete- Reports of blockages along the Morant, Pleasant Hill to Hectors riorated during rainfall over the last Bartons to Ginger Ridge roadway River, Bath to Hordley and Hordley couple of weeks. Barbados Bar Association cautions on judge-only trials

(NationNews) Lawyers of judge only trials before in Barbados want a care- such legislation is present- ful examination of the ed. In particular, the BBA proposal for judge-only would wish to ensure that criminal trials. the provisions are prop- The Barbados Bar As- erly suited to the context sociation (BBA) reacted and resources in Barba- yesterday to Attorney dos,” it said. General Dale Marshall’s The BBA called for proposal which stated an evidence-based ap- while it was not “abso- proach to the proposal lutely opposed” to it, there including research from should be consultation. other Commonwealth ju- “The BBA wishes to risdictions, and giving sound a note of caution. consideration to the ques- The introduction of such tions of whether there provisions ought not be should be a single judge, reactionary, but rather a panel of judges, or a the BBA calls for a con- hybrid panel of a judge sultative approach, with with two lay persons. Barbados’ Attorney General Dale Marshall more analysis and study FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

RegionalNews PAGE 17 Gonsalves wins historic fifth term in St Vincent KINGSTOWN, St Vincent – Prime for the first time, easily retained the results, but regional political scientist Minister Dr created Northern Grenadines seat he has and commentator, Peter Wickham, history in the Caribbean Community represented in Parliament since 2001. said that the result is an “historic first (CARICOM) when he led his ruling He polled 2 123 votes as against 458 in the region. (ULP) to a for the ULP’s Carlos Williams. “He (Gonsalves) has outdone former comfortable fifth consecutive victory The NDP, as has been customary, St Kitts-Nevis prime minister Dr Denzil in the general elections here on swept the two seats on the sister isle Douglas, Dominica’s Prime Minister Thursday. of the Grenadines. The other seat, in Roosevelt Skerrt and even P.J. Preliminary figures released by the the Southern Grenadines was won by Patterson in Jamaica. So it is Electoral Office showed that the ULP , who defeated something significant,” Wickham said won nine of the 15 seats in the Edwin Snagg by a margin of 1153 to on the state-owned NBC Radio here. Parliament, an increase of three seats 559. But he also noted that this is the on the previous one seat majority he One of the causalities of the election second election in the Caribbean in had enjoyed in the last two general was Health Minister Luke Brown, who recent times when “an aged party in elections. It is the first time that a was defeated by new comer, Dwight office has been able to pick up political party has won five Fitzgerald Bramble in the East additional seats”, making reference to consecutive general elections here. Kingstown constituency that had been the situation in Dominica last Gonsalves, 74, easily won his North represented by former NDP leader December. Central Windward seat he has been , a former prime “It is a vote of confidence in the Unity representing since 2001, brushing minister and finance minister, who quit Labour Party. Voter turnout is down aside the two other candidates in active politics last year. and the voter turnout being down at Chieftain Neptune of the main Brown, who polled 2 306 votes was this time is not terribly surprising, but opposition New Democratic Party defeated in the last two elections by it would not be a bad idea for the (NDP) and Kadmiel McFee of the Eustace and had hoped to win the government to sit and reflect on the CVG Green Party. seat in his absence. Bramble polled 2 lower voter turnout and see whether In a message posted on his Facebook 547 there are initiatives that should be page, Gonsalves thanked voters for In the North Leeward, the ULP’s taken in terms of the electoral reform. returning the ULP to power. Carlos James won by seven votes “I don’t think it will be possible to “It’s celebration time. It is five in they against the incumbent Ronald achieve major constitutional changes tail,” he wrote,” as party supporters Mathews, polling 2 287. James lost the at this time, but I do think it would gathered here for the celebration. seat in the 2015 election by 12 votes. make sense to start talking about NDP leader Dr Godwin Friday, 61, who Neither Gonsalves nor Friday made electoral reform and see what can be led the party into a general election any public statement following the achieved,” Wickham added. (CMC) FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 18 Opinion Democracy, not Autocracy, must prevail

tests demanding that the results declare the elections free and fair. be annulled by military interven- Nonetheless, the demonstrations tion. These protests are being en- are gathering steam, fortified by couraged by the interim govern- strikes called by the CCPSC on ment which remains in office until the eve of Arce’s swearing-in as November 8. President. The President of the The interim government was in- CCPSC, Rómulo Calv, has planned stalled by the military when the “staggered strikes” to block roads October 2019 elections were over- and organize crowds of demon- turned with the help of govern- strators. ments in North and South America Far-right groups have also en- opposed to former President Evo gaged in violence and are open- Morales’ socialist stance. These ly demanding military intervention same governments funded and to overturn the elections and to manned the OAS election ob- abort Arce’s swearing-in. By Sir Ronald Sanders servation mission and audit team On November 1, Arce called on (The writer is the Ambas- that, questionably, pronounced the interim government to act sador of Antigua and Bar- the elections rigged. against protesters demanding mil- buda to the U.S. and the In previous commentaries, I under- itary intervention to prevent his in- Organization of American lined the resentment of MAS by auguration. He was supported by States. He is also a senior the light-skinned descendants of the country’s Ombudsman, Nadia fellow at the Institute of Europeans who backed the Civic Cruz, who called for immediate le- Commonwealth Studies, Community (CC) party that forms gal action to be taken. The calls University of London and at the interim government. MAS is were treated with scant regard, Massey College in the Uni- mainly the party of the indigenous encouraging the organisation of versity of Toronto) people. even more protests. Democracy, including free and The current protesters are being It was indicative of the abuse of fair elections, is under siege in mobilised by the Santa Cruz civ- power in the OAS that a meeting the Western Hemisphere, including ic committee (CCPSC), which was of the body’s Permanent Council now in the United States of Ameri- in the forefront of demonstrations was summoned on November 5 ca (US). But the country that cries insisting on the annulment of the to give the interim government’s out for immediate vigilance is Bo- October 2019 elections. The pro- foreign minister and her Ambassa- livia. testors might have secured more dor to the OAS an opportunity to Even though elections, held on official support for their current make political speeches that did October 18, gave overwhelm- protests were it not for the fact not condemn the violent demon- ing and convincing victory to the that, in light of the overwhelming strations or the calls to overturn Movimiento al Socialismo (MAS) victory of MAS and Luis Arce, the the election results. and its leader, Luis Arce, right OAS and other electoral observa- Even more alarming was the sup- wing groups have organized pro- tion missions were constrained to port, expressed by some govern- cont’d on pg 19 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

Opinion PAGE 19 cont’d from pg 18 sustained in a beating by far-right to run the country for their own ments, for the interim regime and protesters, has served to escalate benefit, keeping their booted heel their justification for the annulment turmoil. on the backs of the poor indige- of last year’s elections. The scene is being set for con- nous people. The OAS meeting underscored tinuing unrest in Bolivia and for Those elitist groups have tradi- that some governments in the placing Luis Arce’s Presidency in tionally formed lucrative alliances Americas, including those claiming jeopardy. The same governments with foreign governments, corpo- liberal credentials, remain insistent that are now silent while the far- rations, and banks – all of which on undermining other govern- right groups in Bolivia incite and have exploited these countries, ments that do not bend to their commit violence against the MAS enriching, and empowering them- will. At the same time, govern- and its indigenous supporters, will selves. ments that deserve condemnation undoubtedly condemn him should It is time for democracy, the rule for their autocratic actions, have he take action to stop them. of law, and the rights of the ma- escaped censure. It remains doubtful where the mil- jority, freely expressed in general The silence of the OAS and many itary stands in all this. In the pro- elections, to triumph over autoc- governments in the hemisphere tests surrounding the 2019 elec- racy and privileged interests. Bo- about events in Bolivia is contrib- tions, it did nothing to stop violent livia’s elected President must not uting to the undermining of de- protests by the far-right. In con- only be sworn-in, but his govern- mocracy and democratic prin- trast, when MAS supporters pro- ment should be given the chance ciples that they claim to uphold. tested the interim government’s to function democratically in the The absence of condemnation of continuous delay of promised interest of all the people of Bolivia. the acts of violence by groups de- elections, the police and army And governments in the Caribbe- manding that legitimate elections stood by while “shock groups”, an, which have emerged from the be overturned, is causing the sup- organized by fascists, and brutal- struggles of slavery and exploita- porters of MAS to take action to ly attacked them. It has to be tion, should support democracy in protect themselves. hoped that the military will stand Bolivia. History summons such Ca- MAS supporters are mounting by their constitutional duty. ribbean support. counter-protests. Violent clashes Bolivia is blighted by the problem have so far largely been avoided, that has beset the countries of but the death of a mining union South America for centuries, and Responses and previous commen- leader, Orlando Gutiérrez, on 28 that is the sense by a privileged taries: www.sirronaldsanders.com October, allegedly from injuries elitist group that they are entitled FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 20 International AROUND THE WORLD Caribbean American politicians celebrate wins poll workers who make continue to represent your our democracy possible. best interests in Congress “In New York, it will and will continue to work take a week or more for to create a better Brook- absentee ballots to be lyn and a better America tabulated, but it is clear for all,” she said. that our state and our New York State Jamai- county are overwhelm- can-born Assemblyman N. ingly blue,” added Bi- Nick Perry said while he chotte, who represents was “stunned and amazed the predominantly Ca- at what has transpired Left to right, Yvette D. Clarke, Rodneyse Bichotte and N. ribbean 42nd Assembly across our state and the Nick Perry District in Brooklyn. country since voting start- “Although the wait is ed about two weeks ago, (Trinidad Guardian): The blywoman, Rodneyse Bi- stressful, Brooklyn must I feel a sense of relief, as United States Presiden- chotte, said: “We worked remain engaged and unit- the final results come in. tial Elections remains on hard to keep Brooklyn ed.” “And with it brings a the edge as Democratic blue this year and I am Democratic Congress- message of assurance candidate Joe Biden nar- proud to congratulate all woman, Yvette D. Clarke, that America’s democra- rowed the path to victory our local Democratic win- the daughter of Jamaican cy has survived Donald over incumbent Republi- ners today.” immigrants won re-election Trump,” said Perry, repre- can President Donald J. Bichotte, the daughter of by a landslide over her sentative for the 58th As- Trump, however, Caribbe- Haitian immigrants, heads Haitian American Repub- sembly District, who ran an American legislators the Brooklyn Democrat- lican challenger Constan- unopposed in Tuesday’s are already celebrating ic Party, in a message to tin Jean-Pierre, expressed general elections. Democratic Party success- constituents Wednesday gratitude to supporters. “It is an exhilarating feel- es in key state elections. night said: “I thank all our “This victory is as much ing. New York State Assem- field operatives, staff and yours as it is mine. I will UK daily deaths continuing to rise

(BBC) The government cording to officialf igures. all deaths after a positive positive for coronavirus announced 492 further Between January and test were included. and died within 28 days, deaths across the United August 2020, there were England has seen the but there are two other Kingdom on Wednesday. 48,168 deaths due to majority of UK deaths from measures. The first includes Of those deaths, 388 were COVID-19 compared to Covid-19. Using the 28-day all deaths where coronavi- in England, 10 in Northern 13,600 from pneumonia. cut-off, there have been rus was mentioned on the Ireland, 50 in Scotland and Only 394 were due to flu. more than 40,000. When death certificate, even if 44 in Wales. Rules were amended looking at the overall death the person had not been Three times as many over the summer to include toll from coronavirus, offi- tested for the virus. The people have died from deaths in the coronavirus cialf igures count deaths in most recent figures sug- COVID-19 than from flu total only if they occurred three different ways. gest there had been more and pneumonia in England within 28 days of a positive Government figures than 60,000 deaths by 23 and Wales this year, ac- test. Previously in England, count people who tested October. FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

Community Notices PAGE 21

COMMUNITY NOTICES CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION The Halo Foundation Inc is again hosting its annual Christmas card competition which is open to youngsters aged seven (7) to eighteen (18). All entries should be ‘Caribbean Christmas’ themed. Deadline for submission is December 11, 2020. Call 562-5193 for more details. Prizes to be won.

FREE MATHS CLASSES IN ST. PAUL’S Another learning opportunity is being offered in the St. Paul’s community. CXC Math classes facilitated by veteran mathe- matician, Anthonyson King. These classes are geared toward 4th and 5th form students and those desirous of retaking CXC Mathematics. You must be a resident of St. Paul. Classes com- mence on Wednesday 14th October and will continue every Wednesday at 4:00PM. Early registrations are encouraged to facilitate scheduling. All COVID-19 health protocols will be strictly enforced.

RENEWAL OF WORK PERMITS The Labour Department wishes to inform the public that the Cab- inet of Antigua and Barbuda has decided that until further notice, work permit renewal applications are not required to be advertised by employers.ALL new work permit applications, including change of employers, MUST be accompanied by proper proof of adver- tisement, copies of applications received in response to job adver- tisement and a proper justification for the work permit application. Please be guided accordingly.

TEMPORARY RELIEF OF ABST ON SELECTED GOODS The Prices & Consumer Affairs Division is reminding traders of the temporary relief of the ABST on the following items: Antisep- tics, Wipes, Sanitizers, Toilet Paper and Paper Towel, Aloe Vera Gel, Vitamin C and Multivitamins. Prices being displayed on these goods should not include the ABST, nor should ABST be reflected at the checkout point. Traders who have questions or need clarity regarding the goods to which the temporary relief of the ABST applies, are asked to contact the Division at 462-0834 or 562-8749.

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY RELOCATION The general public is advised that the administrative offices of the Central Cotton Station and the Plant Protection Unit have been moved to a temporary location at the Longford Jeremy Building on Upper Corn Alley. The telephone numbers remain the same.

CHSS DARE to D.E.A.R BOOK DRIVE 2020 The Clare Hall Secondary School is inviting past Clarehallites, entertainers, radio personalities and the general public to partic- ipate in its DARE to D.E.A.R (Drop Everything and Read) Book Drive 2020. Send us a video recording about your favourite book and donate a copy or multiple copies of that book to our school library. Call us at 462-3487 or email us at [email protected]. The book drive culminates in December 2020. We DARE you

Submit community notices to [email protected] FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 PAGE 22 Leisure QUICK CROSSWORD CARTOON CORNER Quick crossword no 15,657 Dilbert 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8

9 10

11

12 Garfield

13 14 15

16

17 18

19

20 21 Cathy

22 23

Across

1 Have an unintended negative consequence (8) 5 Amateurish painting (4) 9 Healing ointment (5) 10 Expression of weariness (5-2) In the Bleachers 11 Glen dashed in (anag) — entirely alone (6-6) 13 Let in oxygen (6) 14 Develop (6) 17 Avant-garde (12) 20 Big-head (7) 21 Gong (informal) (5) 22 Company emblem (4) 23 Disciple (8)

Down

1 Criticise — social gathering (4) 2 Ship carrying coal (7) 3 Railway wagons coupled together to carry goods (7,5) 4 Mend part of a shoe (6) 6 Sap-sucking bug (5) 7 Gory (8) 8 Flaw — weak point (12) 12 Blue wild flower — beer hall (anag) (8) 15 Accidental spill (7) 16 Expressed one's feelings (6) 18 Spike (5) 19 Revise (4) FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 LEISURE PAGE 23

ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19):The allegiance you have to LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): It’s not always easy to get someone special is loosening right now, but it’s not a sign the right perspective on your life, especially right now that your relationship is dissolving, so don’t worry. What’s when things feel a bit up in the air. But don’t let unknown beginning to happen is that you are learning to give people variables add too much stress to this current situation. Today room (and they’re learning to give it to you). you might have time to take a step back and let go of the idea that you have to control every little detail. TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): You can dramatically increase your odds of winning by putting more energy into SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):Express yourself in new planning. Try to dedicate some time to putting your priorities and creative ways today. It has been quite a while since in order. you’ve just let loose and felt free to say what you feel, and you’re overdue for some prime spotlight territory. GEMINI (May 21-June 20):Although this day won’t be jam-packed with excitement, you won’t be bored.Y our SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You might think that regular routine holds quite a few interesting (if subtle) just one more push will make things happen for you, but this nuances today. You might feel inspired to try a new creative is not the case. Now is not the time to keep going. Now is experience to stimulate your brain get the juices flowing. the time to stay put and let things move on without you for a while. CANCER (June 21-July 22):W rap up your heart and give it to someone today. You might need a dose of courage, CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): When you encounter or you might just need a kick in the pants. The people around a co-worker or friend who’s doing things with style, watch you are interested in watching you grow. them very closely. There are tips and tricks you could learn that can help you get one step closer to your ideal public LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Upcoming events that you fear image. might be dangerous actually hold no real threat to you or AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):Y ou’re going along your current lifestyle, so don’t spend any time worrying nicely, singing your own song, and delighting in the antics today. Your fears right now are not warranted at all. of all the people around you. Suddenly, everyone is witty and charming. Before the day is over, you’ll be asking VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Fame and notoriety are two yourself why there’s no reality TV show based on your life. things you should embrace, not shy away from. If you’re thrust into the spotlight against your wishes, try to make the PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20):This is one of those wonderful best of it. Start preparing to live a more public lifestyle by days when your achievements will far outpace any demands taking care of your personal issues. Having something new placed on you.Y ou could meet a big deadline early, so use to show the world will give you more of a reason to get out that extra time to get ahead on another project and blow into it. away more expectations. FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 24 SportsNews FIFA assessing TTFA status

Football’s world governing malization Committee dated Samoura also acknowledged body FIFA is presently assess- November 4, acknowledged the receipt of written proof ing the ruling by the Court of the attempts made by the that on October 25 2020, a Appeal of Trinidad and Toba- membership and the court of meeting was held among the go and the actions of Trinidad appeal saying “FIFA acknowl- TTFA members and a decision and Tobago Football Associa- edge receipt of the decision of made to cooperate with the tion’s (TTFA) general member- the Trinidad and Tobago Court FIFA appointed Normalization ship, with the possibility of re- of Appeal in the case of which Committee. moving the suspension handed FIFA was a respondent party. According to Samoura, FIFA down on September 24 and The Court of Appeal ruled welcomes both decisions and accept the TTFA back into the that the former leadership of is assessing the matter internal- fold of the FIFA family. the TTFA had acted unlawfully ly. A promise was made that FIFA General Secretary Fatma by appealing to a local court an update will be provided in Samoura in a letter to Robert to contest the appointment of due course. Hadad, Chairman of the Nor- the Normalization Committee. FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 27 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

PAGE 26 SportsNews Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by 57 runs to reachf inal

Jasprit Bumrah’s 4-14 ners of Royal Challengers thanks largely to Yadav’s New Zealand seamer Trent helped Mumbai Indians Bangalore and Sunrisers 51 from 38 balls, his fourth Boult claiming a double reach the final of the In- Hyderabad, who meet on half-century of the tourna- wicket maiden in the open- dian Premier League (IPL) Friday. ment, and Kishan’s quickfire ing over. with a dominant 57-run Reigning champions 55 from 30 deliveries. Australia batsman, Mar- victory over Delhi Capitals. Mumbai go through to There were also contri- cus Stoinis, offered some Suryakumar Yadav and Tuesday’s final in Dubai butions from South Africa resistance with 65 from Ishan Kishan earlier scored and are one win away opener, Quinton de Kock, 46 balls, before being dis- half centuries as Mum- from their fifth IPL trophy. who scored 40 from 25 missed by Bumrah. bai posted 200-5 from 20 Going into the match, balls, and some explosive The seamer, who is this overs. 13 of the last 17 match- hitting from India batsman, year’s leading IPL wicket Delhi were reeling at 0-3 es of this year’s IPL had Hardik Pandya, who blast- taker with 27 dismissals so in their run-chase, before been won by sides chas- ed a 14-ball 37. far, bowled with accuracy reaching 143-8. ing, justifying Delhi captain The Delhi Capitals run and precision to record his They can still make the Shreyas Iyer’s decision to chase got off to a dread- career best IPL figures. final if they beat the win- field first, however Mumbai ful start as the top order posted an imposing total all fell without scoring, FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020

SportsNews PAGE 27 Tennis courts closed to the public in England 13 allowed sport to resume after the next month even with people in their initial lockdown period, with outdoor household, which virtually rules out all courts the first to reopen before in- forms of recreational tennis until the door courts were permitted to be restrictions have been eased. used, but Prime Minister Boris John- The only tennis that will be allowed son announced Saturday the new re- to go ahead is at the elite level, with strictions due to the rapidly growing the ATP Finals in London set to go number of coronavirus deaths and ahead behind closed doors between cases, which surpassed one million 15-22 November at the O2 Arena. globally at the weekend. Tennis authorities are not happy As a result, leisure centers, gyms, with the decision. The Lawn Tennis Tennis courts are closed to the pub- and sports facilities including swim- Association has called on the gov- lic since new coronavirus lockdown ming pools and tennis courts have ernment to allow outdoor tennis to restrictions were enforced Thursday, been ordered to close their doors continue claiming tennis is a safe, so- meaning amateurs will not be al- and will not be open again until cially distant sport with the net act- lowed to play the sport until further December 2 at the earliest due to ing as a natural barrier and as such notice in England. the four week lockdown. It means there is low risk in terms of transmis- The easing of restrictions on May persons cannot play tennis for the sion of the virus. Kieran Powell unhappy with his continued omission Cricket West Indies chief selec- players who either failed the test tor, Roger Harper, has defended or did not show up for it, were the decision not to include Lee- selected. ward Hurricanes opening bats- The fact that the former Lee- man, Kieran Powell, noting other ward Hurricane captain was the factors other than performance leading run scorer in the last Re- were at play. gional Super 50, amassing 525 The Nevisian admitted failing a runs in the domestic limited-overs fitness test but seemed confused tournament has left him puzzled and unhappy at being omitted about why he was not given from the 30 man West Indies the opportunity to wear maroon squad presently in New Zealand. again. Powell, who was dropped from The 30-year-old said it’s dis- the Caribbean side in 2018, ex- heartening to have not been se- pressed disappointment that he lected despite standing above was not recalled. everyone else who played in the Speaking on a popular sport tournament. programme earlier this week, the Powell averaged 26.81 in 40 left handed batsman acknowl- matches for the West Indies Leeward Islands opening batsman Ki- edged that he did not pass the amassing 2,011 runs. eran Powell fitness test but insisted that other PAGE 28 FRIDAY 06 NOVEMBER 2020 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG Grave anticipating improved performance against the Kiwis the West Indies against series. Grave said touring New Zealand. New Zealand for any team, Hetmyer and Bravo de- regardless of their form, is clined invitations to the challenging especially in West Indies squad for the Test matches. Raise The Bat series in En- “They are hungry to get gland in July citing safety some championship points concerns. in the World Test Champi- West Indies won the first onships and also start to Test raising expectations in prove to themselves that the Caribbean before los- they’re capable of winning ing back-to-back tests and series and delivering on the series 2-1. For the tour that potential,’’ Grave not- of New Zealand that be- ed. gins on November 27 with “It’s going to be more the first of three T20 in- competition for places in ternationals and then two the middle order and bat- Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Johnny Grave Tests, much is expected of ting line up and it’s the Hetmyer and Bravo. batting where we need to After being beaten by addition of Darren Bravo The Cricket West Indies show improvement because England this past summer, and Shimron Hetmyer, and CEO believes the Caribbe- everyone is confident, we Cricket West Indies Chief competition for places in an side will deliver a much can take 20 wickets,” the Executive Officer (CEO), the side, will result in im- better showing in what is CEO explained. Johnny Grave, believes the proved performance from expected to be a tough

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