TRACKING BRACELETS, REGULATIONS COMING NEW COVID-19 INTO EFFECT
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MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE 163 | WWW.POINTVILLE.AG
TRACKING BRACELETS,
NEW COVID-19
REGULATIONS COMING
INTO EFFECT
SEE PAGE 5
Yida Another The ABLP:
development Antiguan 52 years of
poised for a calypso giant existence
giant leap falls PAGE 9
forward PAGE 4
PAGE 3
EDITORIAL: A new day, a new LIAT Page 2
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 EDITORIAL PAGE 2 A new day, a new LIAT LIAT returns to the Prime Minister Gaston Caribbean to want to fly The Administrator Sea- skies this week heralding Browne and his Cabinet, in large enough num- forth reported recently the start of a new era it would have suffered bers to help the airline that he has been able for the Antigua-based the death other former successfully navigate to negotiate deferrals regional carrier. shareholders were pre- the treacherous first with some creditors, but The LIAT that will com- pared to condemn it to. months ahead and al- conceded that he has mence service to limit- The Gaston Browne ad- ready, there are worry- not been successful in ed routes this week - its ministration literally res- ing omens. all cases. We can only first flights in more than cued LIAT from death’s Last week, OECS heads encourage him to press six months - is for all in- door. failed to agree on a on. tents and purposes, a So like a phoenix rising common set of rules for Staffing issues are new airline. from the ashes, LIAT will the creation of a ‘travel among the most sensi- While elements of the soar into the Caribbean bubble’ that will facilitate tive challenges that the ‘old LIAT’ linger, the air- skies this week. the movement of people airline now faces. While line is getting back into For the people of the in the sub-region. The there is broad accep- operation with a com- region, but especially sub-region has long had tance by all that LIAT pletely new attitude and Antiguans and Barbu- a history of cooperation cannot rehire the more approach to doing busi- dans, LIAT’s return to that has been the envy than five hundred of its ness. The old culture of operation is a welcomed of the larger CARICOM Antigua and Barbuda the airline will be aban- development. Antigua group. So the question based employees, no doned in favour of lean- and Barbuda has been arises, if the OECS can- one wants to be among er, more efficient oper- home to LIAT home from not agree on a common the hundreds who will ations. This is the only its inception nearly 65 travel bubble, how will be left unemployed. way the airline will be years ago and for this CARICOM? The country ’s econo- able to survive. reason it holds a special Then there is the de- my has taken its most The new LIAT will no place in our the hearts. cision by Barbados to severe hit in perhaps longer have at its dis- One of the key assets introduce its own trav- forty years and employ- posal the resources of of the new LIAT moving el advisory that ignores ment is at its highest in the combined treasuries forward is the goodwill the guidelines of the a generation. These are of four shareholder gov- of the people of the Caribbean Public Health not normal times and ernments, which in the Caribbean. No matter Agency (CARPHA) which everyone is hoping to past pumped millions of the matter jokes, dis- CARICOM’s leaders receive a call-back from hard earned, taxpay- paraging remarks or in- asked it to create for the airline. er dollars into keeping vectives hurled at LIAT, regional approval and Rather than rehiring the airline afloat. Those Caribbean people take adoption. staff, the airline may wish days are gone! great pride in the air- Barbados’ decision to consider outsourcing Oversight of the new line’s superior safety re- must not be taken lightly as a means of servicing LIAT will not come from cord and the knowledge as just a week ago, the its needs while helping a Board of Directors, that its pilots are among US Embassy in Barbados its former employees. nor will it be guided by the world’s best at flying announced the resump- Groups of employees top-heavy management. short-stop aircraft into tion of in-person visa could come together For the foreseeable fu- varying terrains. services. With a pent- and offer their services ture, this responsibility This goodwill is among up desire to travel as to LIAT which will allow will fall on the shoulders the things that LIAT will soon as the pandemic is the airline to forego the of LIAT’s court appoint- need to keep going for- a thing of the past, the attendant staffing costs. ed administrator, Cleve- ward. demands for US visas It is our hope that LI- land Seaforth. Already, the adminis- will grow. This will result AT’s journey will last for The fact that LIAT trator has indicated that in increased demand for another six decades and has survived, is by itself the airline will need to travel to the US Embas- that the airline will find worthy of celebration gross approximately $4 sy in Barbados. a path to self-reliance as, had it not been for million monthly to meet The other issues to and profitability in the the singular efforts of its expenses. LIAT will navigate include LIAT’s face of continued and Antigua and Barbuda’s need the people of the significant debts. inevitable uncertainty.
PAGE 3 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
Yida development
poised for a giant
leap forward THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES
FIVE ISLANDS CAMPUS, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA, WEST INDIES
By Shelton Daniel the expected clearing of
The Yida Development some shrubs, the area HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
which borders the North- developed by Yida “is far The University of the West Indies (UWI) is a dynamic, international institution
east Marine Management more beautiful and has serving the countries of the Commonwealth Caribbean. Its faculties and
institutes offer a wide range of undergraduate, masters and doctoral
Area (NEMMA) is mired more trees than when programmes in Humanities and Education, Science and Technology,
in politically motivated we first went there and Engineering, Law, Medical Sciences, Sport and the Social Sciences. The
institution represents the oldest of its kind within the region and has been
controversy, according even the area where he is responsible for producing outstanding leaders who have made remarkable
to Prime Minister Gaston building the beach, there contributions to regional development. In 2019, the UWI placed 32nd among
Browne. was no mangrove there”. the 150 best ranked universities across Latin America and the Caribbean,
according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Latin America University
Speaking Saturday on “I went there myself Rankings. After 71 years The UWI remains the number 1 ranked university, out
his Pointe FM radio pro- sometime prior, and the of more than 200 registered universities in the Caribbean. The UWI is currently
within the top 3% of universities in Latin America and the Caribbean from a
gramme, the Browne and mangroves were already complement of over 2,000 registered universities.
Browne Show, the PM removed by fishermen
The Five Islands Campus is inviting applications from suitably qualified
accused certain political who used to dock there; individuals for the post of Human Resources Officer
opponents of the govern- so all you had there was
ment of deceitfully posing some rocks and he has The successful candidate will be required to:
• Provide Human Resource administration for staff at all staffing categories
as environmentalists. put in some more rocks to include Senior Academic and Professional and Administrative
Browne said those per- and built out the proper- Technical and Support staff levels at the Five Islands Campus
• Support the management of the Human Resource Cluster of the Five
sons “continue to gen- ty and is now seeking to Islands Campus.
erate misinformation by develop the beach,” said • Manage the recruitment, hiring and onboarding processes for the
suggesting that Yida is Prime Minister Browne. Campus.
• Servicing of selected Committees/Boards relating to HR matters on
just ripping up NEMMA”. Browne said Yida’s in- behalf of the Director of Administration.
The most recent accusa- tent is to dredge some
sand offshore, which will QUALIFICATION, TRAINING & EXPERIENCE:
tion made by the ‘pseu-
d o - e n v i ro n m e n t a l i s t s ’ , be used to develop the • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management/ Development,
according to the prime beach, but only after re- Management Studies or Business Administration or a related discipline.
Master’s degree would be an asset.
minister, is that “they saw ceiving the required per- • Minimum 3 years’ experience managing, supporting and delivering
YIDA dredging sand out missions from the relevant exemplary human resource services in a medium or large organization.
• Knowledge of Enterprise HRM design, structure and implementation.
of the NEMMA to build a authorities. • Knowledge of procedures contained in collective agreement bargaining.
beach, which is totally un- “Now he would have ap- • Have a record of successful administrative innovation, change
true”. plied already to the Fish- management and motivational leadership towards the transformation of
Institutional culture.
Browne said while Yida eries Department and • Excellent organisational and administrative skills coupled with an ability
does own a small dredge, they have to identify a to carry a heavy work load, perform under pressure, handle multiple
priorities and contribute to the innovative transformation of job
it is not operational. He site. So he’s now putting processes.
continued that he had his equipment so that as • Excellent organizational, writing, editing, content creation, and verbal
personally visited the soon as he gets the ap- skills.
• Knowledge of the structure of The University of the West Indies, its rules
site to ascertain the ve- proval, his technicians will and regulations, its systems including their enterprise software will be a
racity of the allegation go out there to get the distinct asset.
that a beach that was sand and bring it back in Applicants are required to submit a completed employment application form,
being built from illegally to build the beach.” Curriculum Vitae giving particulars of qualifications, experience, the names
dredged sand. Browne said the Devel- and addresses of at least three (3) references (one of whom should be from
your current organization) and copies of academic qualifications. These are to
“The reality is the man opment Control Authori- be sent by electronic mail to hr.fiveislands@uwi.edu addressed to the Director
has not dredged one ty has, in the meantime, of Administration, The University of the West Indies, Five Islands, Antigua and
Barbuda, West Indies. Application forms, which must be completed can be
grain of sand. It’s just a “proactively issued an en- requested by emailing hr.fiveislands@uwi.edu. The completed application
total lie perpetuated by forcement order to ensure must accompany your CV and cover letter to complete the application
package. The final date for receipt of applications is December 12, 2020. In
those politicians who are that all the rules and reg- order to expedite the appointment procedures, applicants are advised to ask
posing and writing as en- ulations are followed until their referees to send reports under confidential cover to the above address
vironmentalists.” such time as he’s given without waiting to be contacted.
Browne said apart from the specific instructions
cont’d on pg 4
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 4
Another Antiguan
calypso giant falls
The nation of Anti- owner of Hunte Chick-
gua and Barbuda is in en Farm, Marvin Hunte
mourning following the and Helga Hunte.
death on Saturday of Culture Minister, Dar-
Antiguan cultural and yll Matthew, described
calypso icon, Joseph Hunte’s death as “a
‘Calypso Joe” Hunte. personal loss and a
Hunte was a regular great loss for the peo-
finalist in the Calypso ple of Antigua and
King competition of the Barbuda”.
1970 ’s and 80 ’s where “Calypso Joe was one
he won the Calypso of our musical icons.
Monarch title in 1971. His sweet melodious
One year earlier, 1970, voice. I can imagine
Kaiso Joe became the listening to him and
first Antiguan artist to watching him strum-
win the road march ming his guitar now
competition with ‘Bum with his ever-present
Bum’. straw hat, representing
Prior to this, Antigua Antigua and Barbuda
and Barbuda’s road in a variety of fora.
march was chosen from Antiguan cultural and calypso icon, Joseph “Calypso Joe” Hunte His appearances range
/PHOTO CREDIT JUSTIN PETERS PHOTOGRAPHY
the music of Trinidad from gigs at hotels, a
and Tobago’s artists. honour. so Tent, which for de- small birthday party or
Calypso Joe was an Some of his mem- cades was the breed- even the international
outstanding composer orable songs include ing ground for young stage; he would never
and artist with a unique ‘A Nation To Build, A calypso talent in Anti- say no to an opportu-
delivery style. Country To Mould’, gua and Barbuda. nity when asked,” Mat-
Born in the village of Tribute to VC’, ‘Anti- Calypso Joe was the thew recalled.
Johnson’s Point, proudly gua on Fire’ and ‘ Whop father of several chil- The minister recalled
represented the people Whap’. dren including fete pro- fondly Hunte’s perfor-
from ‘Round South’ and He was among the moter, Jime Hunte, Mar- mances for the Rotary
considered his country original members of lon Hunte, who along Club, of which he is a
roots as a badge of the Pepperpot Calyp- with wife Tavia, is the member.
cont’d from pg 3
as to what area offshore he could acre property for several years. in commission. Yida refused to pay.
dredge the sand”. “Apparently, the dispute there is He said it was usurious and he’s not
The prime minister admitted, how- that when Yida bought the land, he paying 10 percent on a $68-million
ever, to being dissatisfied with the paid US$68 million for the land and land sale. So they took him to court
pace of the project. He said he had I’m told that Lux Locations Limited – and I’m told that he won the case
inquired of Yida why other inves- and I stand corrected - asked for a a month ago. So the restriction has
tors were not being invited to come 10 percent commission. Apparently, been lifted and he’s assured me that
on board. To this, he said Yida ex- Yida paid about five percent and from next month he’s going to com-
plained that he was prevented from the 10 percent that Lux Location mence the promotion of the project
doing so due to a legal caution Limited was seeking would have re- and we should see an increase in
that has been in place on the 2,000 sulted in an additional US$5.4 million the investment come 2021.”
PAGE 5 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 Tracking bracelets, new COVID-19 regulations coming into effect New regulations to disclosed. The prime minister also ther review the medium risk manage the spread of While the bracelets are expressed satisfaction with classification as this is not COVID-19 will come into tamper-proof, the prime the outcome of discussions what the Caribbean Public effect this week. minister said under the with the US Centre for Dis- Health Agency (CARPHA) According to Prime Min- new regulations anyone ease Control (CDC) which has recommended. We ister Gaston Browne, the who damages the brace- will revise its travel adviso- recognised that Barbados changes include amend- lets will be fined. ry related to Antigua and has been ‘mum’ on this ments to the Infectious “We want to make the Barbuda effective today. matter. We are concerned Diseases Regulations that fine a hefty one, first to He bemoaned the sit- because it may influence will make it mandatory for include the cost of re- uation with Barbados’ others who may be seek- people in quarantine to placement and secondly, COVID-19 classification ing information about us. wear monitoring bracelets. to act as a deterrent,” he of Antigua and Barbuda It’s a vexing matter and “We are introducing the explained. which remains at ‘medium one that needs to be re- bracelets on Tuesday after Over the past two risk’. This is a revision from solved,” PM Browne stated. they have gone through weeks, Browne said there its earlier classification of The latest information a period of testing. In has been an increase in the country as ‘high risk’ from the Mount St. John’s addition on Monday we visitors to the country and early in November. Medical Centre shows sev- will amend the legislation with this comes the need The prime minister said en active cases, no hos- to make it mandatory to to strengthen health pro- he is still unhappy with pitalisations, 141 confirmed wear the bracelet if one is tocols with the objective of Barbados’ classification of positive cases with four prescribed to undergo a managing the COVID-19 Antigua and Barbuda. deaths, one of which was period of quarantine,” he crisis. “We asked them to fur- an imported case.
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 LOCAL NEWS PAGE 6
Police: It’s a criminal offence to
possess licence plates that aren’t yours
The police are caution- not new to Antigua and charges including conspir- a crime; and that is a very
ing people in possession Barbuda. He added, how- acy to commit a crime. serious, serious offence; it
of license plates that do ever, that police are ad- “As it relates to this par- is as serious as I just said,”
not belong to them that dressing the issue of lost ticular situation where we Thomas said.
they face the possibility of and stolen license plates know a number of peo-
serious charges. in order to ensure that ple would have lost their Thomas noted that a li-
Following the heavy they do not fall into the license plates because of cense plate is not a trophy
rain and flooding recently, wrong hands. flood waters, the Traffic or keepsake and should
people have been posting Thomas said he has per- Department is on that and be returned to the appro-
photos of license plates on sonally reached out to we are dealing with that. priate agency as soon as
social media in an attempt many people who have The acting Superintendent possible.
to locate their owners. posted images of plates of the Traffic Department Meanwhile, Thomas com-
Many of these plates were on social media. While the Rodney Ellis is dealing with mended those persons
dislodged from vehicles as plates have been turned that. who used social media
drivers attempted to ma- over to the Traffic Depart- “And I use this opportu- to make contact with the
neuver flooded roads. ment, Inspector Thomas is nity as well, if you know owners of missing plates.
One concern is that appealing to people still you are in possession of He referred to the gesture
criminals could use these in possession of license a license plate that is not as ‘humanitarian’.
lost plates in the commis- plates that do not be- yours the proper and cor- “They not only post-
sion of crimes. long to turn them over to rect and lawful thing to do ed them but they availed
In the past, criminals the Traffic Department or is to take them to the Traffic their contact information,
have used stolen license the Antigua and Barbuda Department or even to the so I was able to contact
plates on getaway ve- Transport Board. Transport Board for that a couple of them as I
hicles which in turn has The Transport Board matter. Hand them over said and was able to di-
complicated police efforts is the authorising body they are not yours, it is not rect them as to what they
to trace the vehicle. which issues license plates. for you to be distributed should do and they gladly
Inspector of Police, Any person found in pos- for any purpose because complied and that in itself
Frankie Thomas, said this session of plates that are you can be charged in is encouraging,” conclud-
type of criminal activity is not theirs face criminal conspiracy for committing ed Thomas.
Fire Department cautions
homeowners against overloading
power outlets
The Fire Department es work overtime which ing multiple appliances at up] lights et cetera. So
is advising homeown- could increase the risk the same time and leav- we, [the Fire Department]
ers against overloading of electrical fires if not ing them unattended as as usual, want to educate
power outlets during the properly used. many fires are the result people to be very careful
Christmas season. of carelessness. of the amount of appli-
At the holiday season, Fire Chief Elvis Weaver “Well we know at this ances they are using at
many homeowners install cautioned recently that time that there are a lot a time and not to leave
Christmas lights and oth- circuits could be mistak- of appliances that will be them plugged in and un-
er electronic decorations enly overloaded due to working overtime. Some attended. Just be care-
which add to their power the number of devices circuits will be overloaded ful of the load that your
output. Fire Department people use. because of the amount house can carry and
officials warn that these Weaver is advising of things people will be don’t try to overload your
electronic applianc- homeowners against us- trying to do [like putting circuits,” Weaver said.
PAGE 7 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
Refurbished computers
for education
Several public and private production of educational
schools in Antigua are ben- material.
efiting from the donation of Soleyn said the bank
refurbished computers and was very pleased to assist
equipment donated by CIBC this school, particularly be-
FirstCaribbean Bank. cause the school’s founder,
The bank’s branch manag- Camelda Michael, is one of
er, Dawn Soleyn, explained the bank’s Unsung Heroes.
that supporting education The St. Joseph’s Academy
has always been a priority (SJA) benefitted from the
of the bank. donation of 15 refurbished
“Over the past seven years desktop computers and soft-
we have been sponsoring ware. SJA principal, Rudolph
the National Assessment Davis, said the donation was
Awards which rewards and very timely as the school did
recognizes the top 100 stu- not have an adequate num-
dents. In addition, we have ber of computers to satisfy
offered support to many the needs of its students.
schools on an ongoing ba- The third school to benefit
sis,” she stated. was the Princess Margaret
She added that these do- Secondary (PMS) which re-
nations were in response to ceived 6 desktop computers.
appeals made by schools Principal of PMS, Dr. Colin
that have faced addition- Greene, expressed appre-
al problems due to the ciation for the donation on
COVID-19 pandemic which behalf of his faculty and stu-
created the need for social dents. He said the comput-
distancing and online class- ers will assist greatly in alle-
es. viating the COVID-19 related
A cheque for $5,000 was challenges to education.
presented to the Christian Mrs. Soleyn pledged First-
Union Pre & Junior Academy Caribbean’s continuing sup-
to purchase a photocopier port to the country’s educa-
and printer to assist with the tion sector.
FLOW donates to ABYSO
Regional telecommuni- ers, which were accepted
cations provider, FLOW, is by Maria Farrell, to the or-
the latest company to offer chestra.
support to the Antigua and Meanwhile, congratula-
Barbuda Youth Symphony tions have been extended
Orchestra (ABYSO). to Alfranique Joseph (vio-
After attending the lin I) on being bestowed
group’s virtual practice with the 2020 Outstand-
session, FLOW’s Country ing Instrumentalist Award -
Manager, Joe Mathieson Classes JR-D5 and OP-D3
promised to donate speak- String Solo (21 years and
ers to the ABYSO in the under) from the Trinidad
hope that they will improve and Tobago Music Festival.
sound quality in future ses- ABYSO said it is very
sions. proud and wished Al-
Last week, FLOW made franique continued success
good on the promise when as one of Antigua and
they delivered the speak- Barbuda’s star violinists.
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 FEATURE PAGE 8
The ABLP:
52 Years of Formal Existence
November 24, 1968 to November 24, 2020
A Short History
1. On November 24, 1968, 52 years of beet sugar and corn sugar in Eu- The party was focused upon the
ago, the Antigua and Barbuda La- rope, and the glut of cane sugar on 1971 general election that it lost.
bour Party (ABLP) became a sepa- the market as other countries began
rate and distinct organisation from to produce the sweetener in larger Except for three election losses it
the Antigua and Barbuda Trades and quantities and at a lower cost than suffered in 1971, 2004 and 2009, the
Labour Union (AT&LU). When Labour West Indian sugar. ABLP was successful in 1946, 1951,
challenged the colonial authorities 1956, 1960, 1965, 1976, 1980, 1984, 1989,
and those who were propertied short- When George Walter and Donald 1994, 1999, 2014 and 2018, or for thir-
ly after the AT&LU was birthed, the Halstead, General Secretary and Field teen of sixteen election cycles.
trade union became the vehicle upon Officer in the AT&LU, disobeyed the
which it relied. directive of the AT&LU Executive, just It is a heritage party whose gov-
about one month following the pur- ernance is well-remembered and has
Luther George, the first phenotypi- chase, on May 5, 1967, and sought an won the faith of generations of voters.
cally black Antiguan to win a seat in increase for the sugar workers, they
the parliament, in 1943, saw himself as were dismissed by the AT&LU’s 20 4. The ABLP lost two successive
an AT&LU candidate and proposed member executive. elections to an amalgam of opposi-
the formation of the AT&LU Political tion parties—re-christened the United
Committee. Consequently, the Labour Both then disavowed the practice of Progressive Party (UPP) in 1992. In
Party marked its 75th birthday on having the Union and the Government 2004, the ABLP won 37% of the vote
September 23, 2018. closely aligned; the President of the and lost 13 of the 17 constituencies
Union and the Premier of the country to the UPP. By 2009, the decline of
The Party’s very first manifesto was ought not to be vested in the same the UPP’s popularity was palpable;
published on May 18, 1946, as a sup- person. Their new trade union, the the ABLP re-gained three previously
plement to the Workers’ Voice News- Antigua Workers Union, would never lost constituencies, raising the ABLP’s
paper, in anticipation of a July 1946 align with any government. Togeth- percentage to more than 46% of the
general election. The Party has strad- er, the two former members virtually vote, and lowering the UPP’s to 50%
dled colonial, pre-independence, and forced the AT&LU to separate itself of the 2009 vote. Five years later, the
post-sovereignty governance cumula- from its political arm and the gover- ABLP won the general election of 2014
tively for seven and one-half decades. nance of the country. by capturing 14 of the 17 constituen-
Its formation, however, as a separate cies, and winning 57% of the vote. On
institution, with different leadership, The ALP thus was born. March 21st 2018, the ABLP won 15 of
came about 52 years ago. the 17 constituencies, garnering nearly
3. On Sunday, November 24, 1968, 60% of the votes cast.
2. On April 7, 1967, 39 days follow- hundreds of delegates to the first
ing statehood, Premier Vere Bird suc- Convention of the Antigua and Bar- 5. Four days ago, on November 20,
ceeded in purchasing the assets of buda Labour Party gathered at the 2020, a lawyer in the High Court tried
the Antigua Sugar Factory and the St. John’s Boys School to formally give persuading a Judge that the ABLP
Antigua Syndicates Estate for a paltry life to the youngest but oldest political is a monopolistic party because of
EC$5,621,386.80. Thirty-three thousand party—the ABLP. Rugby Lake penned its invincibility on the political battle-
acres of privately-owned fertile land the Constitution which called for a Po- field. That appears to be the case of
became the property of the Antigua litical Leader, a Chairman, three Vice those who believe that the heritage
and Barbuda Government, along with Chairmen, a Treasurer, a General Sec- party wins elections because it has
the markets, the machinery and other retary, and an Executive. Vere Bird, been around for almost seven de-
assets. who was elected the Political Leader, cades. The ABLP has lasted because
was at the same time the President of its governance and competence are
The ailing sugar industry was no the AT&LU—a position he would re- unmatched.
longer profitable because of the in- sign on October 1, 1969.
vention of saccharin, the production Lionel Hurst
PAGE 9 DENTAL CORNER MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
Six things a dental cleaning
can do for you
1. Prevent cavities 4. Freshen your breath
The whitish film that builds up on Good oral hygiene is the best way to
your teeth is called plaque and is the prevent persistent bad breath. Even if
leading cause of tooth decay. This you brush and floss regularly, getting
acidic substance eats away the tooth a cleaning is a great way to keep
enamel and, if left unattended, can your mouth healthy and odor-free.
lead to cavities. Plaque can be re-
moved by brushing, flossing and reg- 5. Boost your overall health
ular dental cleanings. It’s important to Studies have shown a connection be-
remember not to Rush the Brushing tween oral and overall health. Regu-
of teeth. lar dental cleanings may help lower
your risk for some diseases, like heart
2. Stop tooth loss disease and stroke. Many medical
Gum disease, which starts with built- conditions, some of them life-threat-
up plaque, is a major cause of tooth ening, can be detected in their early
loss in adults. As gum disease ad- stages by your dentist during a rou-
vances, plaque moves further down tine oral exam.
the tooth where it can destroy the
supporting bone in your jaw, causing 6. Save money
teeth to loosen and fall out. Lucki- Get the most value from your den-
ly, the chance of this happening to tal benefits. If you take advantage of
you can be greatly reduced through your benefits now, you may be able
regular dental cleanings which costs to save money in the long run by
very minimal compared to expensive helping to protect your oral health
implants and bridges after tooth loss. and potentially avoiding more costly
The dental cleanings should also be and extensive procedures.
combined with good oral hygiene
habits. Your smile is the window to your soul.
Keep your windows clean!
3. Brighten your smile
Drinking coffee, tea and wine or us-
ing tobacco can stain your teeth. A
dental cleaning can remove built-up
stains and leave you with freshly pol-
ished teeth. The result? A brighter
smile!
BUSINESS
and
ECONOMY NOVEMBER 30, 2020
PAGE 11 PAGE 12 PAGE 13 PAGE 14
ANTIGUA INVESTMENT WIOC SHARES INFLATION
PRINTING & OPTIONS: PROSPECTUS TO RATE REMAINS
PUBLISHING’S SHARES BE REVEALED NEGLIGIBLE
GOLDEN JUBILEE IN EARLY
DECEMBER
PAGE 16 PAGE 17
SIMPLE US BLACK
INVESTMENT FRIDAY SALES
GUIDE HIT A NEW
RECORD
West Oil Company tank farm /PHOTO COURTESY WEST INDIES OIL COMPANYPAGE 11 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
Antigua Printing &
Publishing’s Golden Jubilee
The most prominent gua Trades and Labour
building on Factory Union.
Road, St. John’s is the The Antigua Printing &
premises of a whol- Publishing Ltd. has ac-
ly Antiguan institution quired the confidence of
which has withstood businesses throughout
the test of time for the the nation and the Ca-
past 50 years. It houses ribbean and boasts a
Antigua Printing & Pub- clientele made up of ho-
lishing Ltd. which was tels, banks, schools, su-
founded by members of permarkets, airlines and
Antigua Peoples Party statutory bodies. This is
(APP) an aspect of the busi-
The APP was com- ness which gives much
posed of a group of satisfaction to the staff
young businessmen and and its shareholders.
professionals who saw Today, 50 years after
the need for a ‘second its tentative and turbu-
voice’ in the nation. J. lent start, The Antigua
Rowan Henry, Reuben Printing & Publishing Ltd.
Harris, Gerald Price, holds excellent standing
C.L. Murray, Edmund as a private company in
Jarvis, and other mem- Antigua and Barbuda.
bers of the APP official- The company maintains
ly opened the doors of the vision of its founders
Antigua Printing & Pub- and shareholders and
lishing to the public on strives to maintain the
November 30th, 1970. confidence of its vast
The company began local and international
with a small staff whose customers.
members were G. Paris, The Golden Jubilee cel-
a Barbadian who had ebrations commenced
been living in Antigua with a thanksgiving ser-
for many years, Gerald vice at the Spring Gar-
Price, Eustace Park- dens Moravian Church
er, Dame Bridget Har- on Sunday 30th No-
ris – who later became vember 2020. An Open
Speaker of the House of House takes place to-
Representatives, Mar- day, Monday 30th No-
jorie Maynard – now The machines became two weeks to complete vember 2020.
Golden Jubilee Year of The inadequate for the work- but nearing completion The year long activities
Antigua Printing & Publish- load and more modern supporters lined up out- will culminate on November
ing Ltd. and Mr. Withers , equipment was brought side the building to have 29th, 2021. Please join us
a UK as technical adviser. in. Offset printing was new the first edition. in thanking God for giving
The business com- to Antigua and Mrs. May- The company also print- us the privilege of serving
menced with minimal ma- nard was sent to Puerto ed The Outlet newspaper, you faithfully through the
chinery, but it was not long Rico to train in operating a publication of the Af- years. Our image depends
before commercial printing the Varitype machine. rican Caribbean Libera- on your images! www.anti-
of magazines, brochures The first newspaper, The tion Movement, and The guaprintingpublishing.com
and letterheads began. Antigua Times, took almost Worker’s Voice of the Anti-MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY PAGE 12
INVESTMENT OPTIONS
SHARES
Shares are units of equity own- held on the Regional Government to close at 397,474.41. The JSE All Ja-
ership interest in a corporation Securities Market is the Government maican Composite Index advanced
that exist as a financial asset pro- of the Commonwealth of Dominica’s by 9,973.70 points (2.34%) to close
viding for an equal distribution in 91-day Treasury bill ($20 million), of- at 435,722.68. The JSE Select Index
any residual profits, if any are de- fered at a maximum rate of 6.0%, advanced by 252.39 points (2.63%)
clared, in the form of dividends. which will take place on 4 Decem- to close at 9,831.84. The Junior Mar-
Shareholders may also enjoy ber 2020, using the primary market ket Index declined by 23.46 points
capital gains if the value of the platform of the Eastern Caribbean (0.92%) to close at 2,513.83. The JSE
company rises. Most companies Securities Exchange. Bidding for this USD Equities Index declined by 4.78
have shares, but only the shares auction will commence at 9:00 am points (2.48%) to close at 187.92. The
of publicly traded companies are and end at 12:00 pm. JSE Financial Index advanced by 1.74
found on stock exchanges. More information on the securities points (1.70%) to close at 104.25. The
Shares represent equity stock in available for sale and other issues JSE Manufacturing & Distribution In-
a firm, with the two main types can be obtained at the ECSE’s web- dex advanced by 3.28 points (4.23%)
of shares being common shares site at www.ecseonline.com, or by to close at 80.81.
and preferred shares. As a result, contacting a broker dealer.
“shares” and “stocks” are com- Trinidad & Tobago Stock Exchange
monly used interchangeably. Barbados Stock Exchange Overall Market activity resulted
This week, the Regular Market from trading in 25 securities of which
Regional Stock Market Summary traded a total volume of 2,237,842 8 advanced, 14 declined and 3 trad-
Trading Reports as at Friday 14, shares. The top three companies ed firm. Trading activity amounted
November, 2020 traded were Insurance Corporation to 1,251,980 shares crossing the floor
of Barbados Limited with 2,217,371 of the Exchange valued at TT$18.657
Eastern Caribbean Securities (99.09%), Goddard Enterprises Lim- million. The volume leaders are
Exchange (ECSE) ited with 19,800 (0.01%) and Eppley JMMB GROUP Limited with 567,765
On the ECSE Market last week 2 Caribbean Property Fund SCC – shares (45.35%) followed by NCB
stocks traded: 2,500 S L Horsford & Value Fund with 600 shares (0.00%). FINANCIAL GROUP Limited with
Co Ltd shares traded at $2.00 per 151,597 shares (12.11%) and CLICO IN-
share and 500 Bank of Nevis Ltd Jamaica Stock Exchange VESTMENTS Fund with 49,294 shares
shares at $3.35 per share. 400,000 Overall Market activity resulted (3.94%).
units of the Government of Saint Lu- from trading in 100 stocks of which
cia’s 3-year Treasury Note traded at 49 advanced, 37 declined and 14 The All T&T Index declined by 3.94
4.5%. traded firm. Market volume amount- points to close at 1,714.39. The Com-
Regional Government Securities ed to 354,805,957 units valued at posite Index declined by 5.27 points
Market –The Government of Antigua over J$1,264,953,187.45. The market to close at 1,286.72 and the Cross
and Barbuda’s 180-day Treasury bill volume leaders are Sagicor Select Listed Index declined by 0.91 points
raised $2.9 million of the $15 mil- Fund Limited –Financial Security with to close at 116.16. The SME Index
lion offered. The competitive uniform 252,443,412 units (71.15%) followed by declined by 0.44 points to close at
price methodology used, resulted in TransJamaica Highway Limited with 64.
a discount rate of 3.92262%. 32,789,586 units (9.24%) and Wigton
The Government of St Vincent and Windfarm Limited with 12,288,854 Guyana Stock Exchange
the Grenadines’ 91-day Treasury bill units (3.46%). 1 stock declined and 3 traded firm
raised $28.0 million. The competitive The JSE Combined Index ad- as 53, 398 units crossed the floor.
uniform price methodology used, re- vanced by 8,046.96 points (2.09%) to Banks DIH was the volume leader
sulted in a discount rate of 1.49441%. close at 392,766.93. The JSE Index with 35,142 shares traded. The LSI
The next auction scheduled to be advanced by 9,010.98 points (2.32%) closed at 161.2.PAGE 13 LOCAL NEWS MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 WIOC shares prospectus to be revealed in early December The public will soon to ensure that ‘people of boost investor sentiment in creation opportunities for have the opportunity to Antigua and Barbuda get challenging times and the ‘ordinary people’ who are take ownership of major exclusive rights to capital- attractive pricing should not interested in entre- national assets with the ise on the investment op- increase the stock market preneurship. Browne also release of the prospectus portunity at the discount- activity in the medium to disclosed that discussions for the sale of West In- ed price being offered long term,” said Georges. are ongoing with another dies Oil Company (WIOC) via a stock split’. These He continued that this WIOC major shareholder, shares in early December. restrictions include a limit offering will yield direct Fancy Bridge, to add 10 % Managing Director of on how many shares an revenue for the govern- of its holdings to the di- WIOC, Gregory Georges, investor can purchase. ment of Antigua and Bar- vestment pool. told PointeXpress recently WIOC’s managing di- buda as its shares are up When asked for a share- that the December release rector, Georges provid- for sale. Georges went on holder’s perspective on of the prospectus for the ed further clarity on the to say that “the compa- the IPO plans for WIOC, sale of ten percent of the stock split explaining ny value and market cap- Browne said the offering shares the Government that although the current italisation would remain will be at the share value of Antigua and Barbuda share value is in excess the same when the sale is which is likely to be higher owns in the company. of EC$600.00, the govern- completed”. than the current value giv- Georges’ confirmation ment has agreed to the According to the WIOC en the continued growth followed Prime Minister stock split of $60.00 for managing director, the of the company even in Gaston Browne’s recent the limited investment of- shares will come to the these challenging times. announcement that a lim- fering. market in mid to late 2021 The restrictions which ited percentage of the “The 10 to 1 stock split with its own IPO to attract are being applied to the government’s shares in makes the divestment fresh capital for additional initial shares purchase will WIOC will soon be made more accessible to a wid- capital investment as the also likely be removed.. available for purchase to er base of Antiguans and entity continues its expan- The process, which in- citizens and residents of Barbudans and presents sion plans. cludes the preparation of Antigua and Barbuda only a more palatable offering Prime Minister Browne the prospectus and offer- through the Eastern Ca- given the current market added that his Cabinet is ings, is being handled by a ribbean Stock Exchange conditions.” focused on ensuring that regional brokerage firm as (ECSE). He also disclosed that a wide cross section of there is no brokerage firm On Sunday, the prime the stock split is intended people are able to afford in Antigua and Barbuda. minister told PointeX- to accelerate and pro- the shares. Individuals will be able press that the restriction mote the development The sale is viewed as to get further details from which allows only people of the domestic financial an important investment the prospectus which will in Antigua and Barbuda market. vehicle to encourage the be available in early De- to purchase is designed “The offerings should pursuit of greater wealth cember.
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY PAGE 14 Inflation Rate remains negligible According to the Oc- Juices. crease for the month bles rose 1.7% follow- tober Consumer Price The index for Fur- ending October 2020 ing a marginal 0.1% in- Index release from the nishings, Household over September 2020. crease in the previous Statistics Division the Equipment and Rou- The Food index in- month. The index for country ’s inflation rate tine Household Mainte- creased by 1.5% over Furnishings, Household remains negligible at nance rose 16.7% while the month. Notable in- Equipment and Rou- 1.3%. the index for Miscel- creases were recorded tine Household Main- Food prices exhibit- laneous Goods and in the index Fish and tenance increased by ed the largest increase Services increased by Seafood rose (6.4%), 12.5%. over the twelve-month 5.3%. The index for Al- a larger increase than Noteworthy too, is the period as reflected in coholic Beverages, To- the 1.6% rise in Septem- 13.8% increase in the a 3.5% increase in the bacco and Narcotics ber. The sub-categories index for Recreation Food Index. This in- increased by 3.0%. of Fresh Chilled and or and Culture which had crease was reflected In contrast, there Frozen Fish and Sea- fallen 8.6% in July. The in eight of the nine were declines in the in- food rose 19.7% and the increase was linked to subgroups includ- dexes for Housing , Wa- sub-category Preserved an increase in the price ing vegetables (8.1%), ter, Electricity, Gas and or Processed Fish and for consumer durables milk, cheese, and eggs Other Fuels (-2.6%) and Seafood increased by used for entertainment, (4.9%), fish & seafood Clothing and Footwear 1.6%. The Index for Milk, such as televisions. (4.1%) and fruits (3.0%). (-3.3%). Cheese and Eggs in- The Index for All Items %. The index for Non-Al- The index for All Items creased by 3.1%. Less Food and Energy coholic Beverages in- Less Food and Energy The index for Fruit increased by 1.7% after creased 2.5% resulting increased 2.1% over the increased by 2.5% as declining 1.8% in Sep- from average price in- past twelve months. the index for Fresh and tember. creases for Soft Drinks A month to month Chilled Fruits record- Understanding the CPI and Concentrates and comparison in prices ed an increase of 6.8%. – What are the Weights Fruit and Vegetable reflected a 0.6% in- The index for Vegeta- Weights can be con-
PAGE 15 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 sidered in the same lective expression of keep a record of their most on Accommoda- way we would express how households would expenditure for one tion ( 218.3) followed by how much we spend on generally spend their month. Once completed, Food ( 214.2) and Trans- various goods and ser- monthly income on the expenditures were portation and Commu- vices each month. Just goods and services. The added to determine the nication ( 153.5). House- like a monthly salary weights for this series pattern. This pattern is holds would also spend can be broken down as of CPI were drawn from what is referred to as the least on Alcoholic 20% on rent, 25% food, a survey of a sample the weights. The current Drink and Tobacco ( 1.6) 15% mortgage, 10% on of households in 2006 weights assume that – Source: Statistics Di- utilities and so on, the (the base period). Each each month, house- vision CPI weights are a col- household was asked to holds would spend the
MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY PAGE 16
SIMPLE INVESTMENT GUIDE
chasing ability—each ance.
dollar saved is worth Your risk tolerance
less in the years to can be divided into
come. two sections, emotions
That being said, in- and financial capa-
vesting involves great- bility. There are many
er risk than savings. It tests out there that
is very possible that can determine your
you can lose your ini- risk tolerance based
tial investment and any on your personality
gain. There is a risk el- and emotions. Know-
ement in every invest- ing how much risk you
ment. Anyone buying can tolerate is import-
shares should know ant so you can sleep
that each share’s value comfortable at night.
can grow, particularly It is important to also
over a long period; the consider your financial
value may also decline. capability to take risks
The value depends on when determining your
various factors such risk tolerance. Factors
as the company ’s per- that you may consider
formance, the value when determining your
placed in general by financial capability to
This chapter is an tivities (what we usu- investors on owning take risks are:
excerpt from the soon ally have done since the shares of that firm , Quick Note: the
to be published book childhood) and invest- and the general pre- more time you have
of Dr. Terrance Martin ing. vailing economic state left to complete your
Jr., titled “Investing in On one hand, your of a country. financial goal, then
the Caribbean: Choic- “savings” or “ nest egg ” Despite these risks the more risk tolerance
es and Options.” Dr. is your money that attached to invest- you should be, since
Terrance Martin is a you more than like- ing , there are immense you will have more
citizen of St. Kitts and ly deposit in a bank , benefits. When you in- time to recover from
Nevis and currently credit union , or some vest, you are likely to any losses. The oppo-
an Assistant Profes- other financial insti- earn more money than site is true for people
sor of Financial Plan- tution. In some cases, when you save via con- that have less time to
ning in the Woodbury some people’s mis- ventional methods. In reach a financial goal,
School of Business at trust of financial insti- most cases, the great- like saving up for a
Utah Valley University. tutions leads them to er the investment risk down payment on a
Dr. Martin is also the save money at home involved, the greater car. Overall, people
Executive Vice Presi- or in a “ box,” “ hand,” the reward you will re- that have a long-term
dent of the Academy or “ partner hand.” The ceive. How much risk financial goal (such
of Financial Services benefit of these con- can you handle? How as retirement) can be
and an editor for the ventional saving meth- well with you sleep at more risky with their
Financial Services Re- ods is that your money night knowing that you investments in the be-
view. is relatively secure and have little control over ginning and switch to
highly liquid, i.e. read- the money you have in less risky investments
When we are paid, ily available when you the stock market? We as the target date
we have a choice. The need it without loss of each have a threshold of their financial ob-
choice is to consume or value. The downside is of financial risk that jective comes near.
to save. The preferred that your money yields we can tolerate, and Knowing your ability
goal is to encourage very little interest in- we need to know this to sleep at night with
saving. Saving here come, and when you threshold! Therefore, your money not in your
can be broken down consider inflation , sav- we need to better un- bank account is im-
into typical saving ac- ing leads to less pur- derstand risk toler- portant. Trust me, it is!PAGE 17 BUSINESS AND ECONOMY MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
US Black Friday sales
hit a new record
WASHINGTON (AP) — closer to Christmas.
Black Friday online sales “Black Friday had a lot
hit a new record this year to lose, but some of it is
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST INDIES
FIVE ISLANDS CAMPUS, ANTIGUA & BARBUDA, WEST INDIES as pandemic-wary Ameri- going to be distributed
cans filled virtual carts in- throughout the holiday
MARKETING OFFICER stead of real ones. season,” Field said.
Consumers spent an One trend that could
The University of the West Indies (UWI) is a dynamic, international institution
serving the countries of the Commonwealth Caribbean. Its faculties and estimated US$9 billion remain after the pan-
institutes offer a wide range of undergraduate, masters and doctoral on US retail websites on demic ends is that stores
programmes in Humanities and Education, Science and Technology,
Engineering, Law, Medical Sciences, Sport and the Social Sciences. The
Black Friday, according could remain closed on
institution represents the oldest of its kind within the region and has been to Adobe Analytics, which Thanksgiving Day, Field
responsible for producing outstanding leaders who have made remarkable tracks online shopping. said. Since 2013, a grow-
contributions to regional development. In 2019, the UWI placed 32nd among
the 150 best ranked universities across Latin America and the Caribbean, That was a 22 per cent ing number of stores had
according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Latin America University increase over the previ- opened on Thanksgiving
Rankings. After 71 years The UWI remains the number 1 ranked university, out
of more than 200 registered universities in the Caribbean. The UWI is currently
ous record of US$7.4 bil- to match their competi-
within the top 3% of universities in Latin America and the Caribbean from a lion set in 2019. tors and get a jump-start
complement of over 2,000 registered universities. Meanwhile, traffic to on Black Friday. But it’s
The Five Islands Campus is inviting applications from suitably qualified physical stores plummet- typically not a big day
individuals for the post of Marketing Officer. ed as retailers tried to for retailers, and this
The successful candidate will be required to: prevent crowds by cut- year many stayed closed.
• Develop and implement communication and marketing strategies ting their hours and limit- Thanksgiving store traffic
aimed at raising the brand profile of the UWI Five Islands Campus across
a wide range of stakeholder groups.
ing doorbuster deals. US was down 95 per cent, he
• Support the building and maintenance of a strong identity, public store visits dropped by 52 said.
image and brand, ensuring One UWI consistency in all aspects of brand per cent on Black Friday, Field said stores may
communications particularly in the local and OECS space.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders according to Sensormatic be rethinking the cost of
to advance implementation and dissemination of communication Solutions, a retail tracker. paying employees and
messages specific to the UWI Five Islands.
• Prepare materials for internal and external communiqués including the
Traffic was slower in the opening on Thanksgiving
web and digital assets/social media. north-east and west than when they could easily
in the Midwest and south, make up for those sales
QUALIFICATION, TRAINING & EXPERIENCE:
said Brian Field, Sensor- online.
• Bachelor’s degree in; communications, marketing, or journalism. Masters matic’s senior director of “I wonder, now that
degree is an asset. global retail consulting. we’re seeing a season
• Minimum 3 years’ experience managing, supporting and delivering
exemplary marketing, communications or media services in a medium or Jewellery and footwear where they were able to
large organization. saw some of the biggest cut the cord on it, if it will
• Knowledge of project management, brand reputation management,
marketing strategy, development and implementation methodologies. in-person sales declines, give them pause,” he said.
• The ideal candidate should also have a record of successful according to RetailNext, a Adobe expects Monday
administrative innovation, change management and motivational
leadership towards the transformation of Institutional culture.
shopping tracker. Apparel to be the largest online
• Excellent organisational and administrative skills coupled with an ability sales were down 50 per sales day in US history,
to carry a heavy work load, perform under pressure, and contribute to cent, while sales of home with estimated spend-
the innovative transformation of job processes.
• Excellent organizational, writing, editing, content creation, and verbal goods fell by 39 per cent. ing of US$10.8 billion to
skills. Even with that drop, US$12.7 billion. One rea-
• Knowledge of the structure of The University of the West Indies, its rules
and regulations, its systems including their enterprise software will be a
Black Friday will still likely son for the big numbers
distinct asset. end up as one of the big- is that people are shop-
gest in-person shopping ping online for things
Applicants are required to submit a completed employment application form,
Curriculum Vitae giving particulars of qualifications, experience, the names days in the US this year, such as groceries and
and addresses of at least three (3) references (one of whom should be from Field said. He thinks many alcohol that they bought
your current organization) and copies of academic qualifications. These are to
be sent by electronic mail to hr.fiveislands@uwi.edu addressed to the Director
people will still shop for in person before the pan-
of Administration, The University of the West Indies, Five Islands, Antigua and the holidays in person but demic, Adobe said. As
Barbuda, West Indies. Application forms, which must be completed can be will choose midweek days for more traditional gifts,
requested by emailing hr.fiveislands@uwi.edu. The completed application
must accompany your CV and cover letter to complete the application when crowds are smaller. Hot Wheels cars, Lego
package. The final date for receipt of applications is December 12, 2020. In Heavier in-store discounts sets, Apple AirPods, Sam-
order to expedite the appointment procedures, applicants are advised to ask
their referees to send reports under confidential cover to the above address
and concerns about sung televisions and vid-
without waiting to be contacted. lengthy shipping times eo games are among the
could also draw shoppers biggest sellers.PAGE 19 REGIONAL NEWS MONDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2020
US$10 million drug bust in Caribbean waters,
Dominican Republic nationals arrested
rales, director, Air and of the all the federal and
Marine Operations for the state partners committed
Caribbean Air and Marine to eliminate illicit trafficking
Branch. from the waters of Puerto
“Our agents continue to Rico and the US Virgin Is-
use advanced aeronauti- lands,” said Captain Jose E.
cal and maritime capabil- Diaz, deputy commander.
ities to detect and inter- “Keeping dangerous drugs
dict them throughout our off the streets save lives.”
coastal borders,” he add- As the US Coast Guard
ed. assets approached the
CBP said that on the vessel, two men jumped
evening of November 23, into the water in order to
AMO launched from the evade arrest.
Caribbean Air and Marine The Coast Guard
Branch in order to conduct stopped the vessel with
a Border Security Patrol. one man on board, and
(CMC) - The United CBP said the suspect-
The Marine Patrol Air- found 13 bales of narcotics
States Customs and Bor- ed drug smugglers were
craft (MPA) crew detected and one firearm. The two
der Protection (CBP) agen- attempting to enter near
the vessel that was without individuals were retrieved
cy says its Air and Marine Arecibo, Puerto Rico.
navigational lights. from the water.
Operations (AMO) and the The estimated value of
It said MPA crew main- The US Coast Guard lat-
US Coast Guard recently the seized narcotics is
tained surveillance, con- er “transported the con-
interdicted a “yola” type US$10 million.
tacting US Coast Guard traband and the arrest-
wooden vessel transport- “Transnational criminal
Cutter Joseph Tezanos and ed individuals to Arecibo,
ing 816 pounds (370 kilo- organisations attempt to
a US Coast Guard small Puerto Rico, where Carib-
grammes) of cocaine in smuggle narcotics in dif-
interceptor to intercept. bean Corridor Strike Force
the Caribbean Sea and ferent locations through-
“This successful inter- (CCSF) agents took custo-
apprehended three Do- out our island testing our
diction is the result of the dy for prosecution and in-
minican Republic nationals. resolve,” said Johnny Mo-
hard work and dedication vestigation.”
NOAA warns 2020 hurricane
season could last into December
WASHINGTON D.C., USA (CMC) - noting that its seasonal hurricane NOAA said the 2020 season got
The United States National Ocean- outlooks “accurately predicted a high off to an early and rapid pace, with
ic and Atmospheric Administration likelihood of an above-normal sea- a record nine named storms from
(NOAA) has warned that tropical son with a strong possibility of it be- May through July, “and then quickly
storms might continue to develop ing extremely active”. exhausted the 21-name Atlantic list
past the official hurricane season In total, the 2020 season produced when Tropical Storm Wilfred formed
which ends on November 30. 30 named storms, top winds of 39 on September 18”.
NOAA said that the extremely ac- miles per hour (mph) or greater, of For only the second time in history,
tive 2020 Atlantic hurricane season which 13 became hurricanes, top NOAA said the Greek alphabet was
is drawing to a close, with a re- winds of 74 mph or greater, including used for the remainder of the season,
cord-breaking 30 named storms and six major hurricanes, top winds of 111 extending through the 9th name in
12 land falling storms. mph or greater, NOAA said. the list, Iota.
“While the official hurricane season “This is the most storms on record, The 2021 hurricane season will offi-
concludes on November 30, tropical surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the cially begin on June 1. NOAA said its
storms may continue to develop past second-highest number of hurricanes Climate Prediction Center will issue its
that day,” said NOAA in a statement, on record,” the weather agency said. initial seasonal outlook in May.You can also read
