Datasets:
ratishsp
/
newshead

Dataset card Viewer Files Community
1
documents
stringlengths
1.4k
111k
summary
stringlengths
347
5.47k
The residents of the south side of Francois Lake are asking for more help to fight the ongoing fire in their community. Pam Herman has gone to her Facebook page and asked the B.C. Wildfire Service to keep crews in her community 24 hours a day. Currently, the crews arrive in the morning near the Takysie Lake Resort and then leave in the later afternoon to return by ferry to the Burns Lake area. “Now…I’m no rocket scientist, but I can do that math and the time lost and wasted due to that decision is such a slap in the face to this community, that it stings…and it stings badly,” writes Herman. “I watched an entire crew of about 30 people, after being over here only a few hours, get in their vehicles, turn around and head for a boat around 6 PM.” Story continues below advertisement The Verdun, Nadina Lake and Island Lake wildfires are all burning on the south side of the lake. Much of the area is on evacuation order and alert, with some residents staying behind to protect their property. According to Herman’s post there were some crews working on structural protection on Sunday night. There is a public meeting set for Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the Grassy Plains School. WATCH: Lingering smoke from B.C.’s wildfires poses health risks 3:19 Lingering smoke from B.C.’s wildfires poses health risks Lingering smoke from B.C.’s wildfires poses health risks – Aug 20, 2018 The greatest concern for residents is the area near the Takysie Lake Resort where fire flareups could jeopardize people’s homes. The residents are asking the B.C. Wildfire Service crews to stay on the south side overnight, either billeted with homeowners or camping, rather than go back and forth on the ferry each day. Story continues below advertisement “It is a massive waste of time. And now there will not be anyone to perform structural protection at night…no night ops to watch out for us,” Herman wrote. “There will be no one going out and about ensuring that homes are protected. They have done an amazing job setting things up, but there are a lot of holes yet in that system due to lack of resources and there are a lot of fires burning…and a big one on the way.” WATCH HERE: Prince George left in the dark as wildfires rage 2:39 Prince George left in the dark as wildfires rage Prince George left in the dark as wildfires rage – Aug 17, 2018 The community is thankful for the support for the firefighters, but residents are frustrated about decisions made by “bureaucrats.” Story continues below advertisement “I had one of the women come up to me with tears in her eyes and tell me how sorry she was that this was happening to us,” writes Herman. ” I’ve had Red Shirts help pack out things to our trailer for us the one time that we agreed to leave the grounds, if only for a few hours and they helped us with whatever crazy thing we wanted to pack. They were calm and sincere and I have always felt in the best of hands knowing they were here.” Evacuation order in Klinaklini Lake area The Cariboo Regional District has issued an evacuation order for 14 properties in the Klinaklini Lake area. The only way to be evacuated is by helicopter and the RCMP are assisting in getting people out. Evacuees are being asked to register at the reception centre at the Lake City Secondary School Campus in Williams Lake. Progress being made in Kootenay National Park Parks Canada has provided an update to the Wardle wildfire in Kootenay National Park, with significant progress being made towards containing the fire. The fire is not expected to spread beyond the existing boundaries. As of Monday morning, two area closures at the north end of Kootenay National Park are lifted, including northern section of the Rockwall trail north of Tumbling Pass.<doc-sep>Send this page to someone via email Share this item on Twitter Share this item via WhatsApp Share this item on Facebook A provincial state of emergency has been declared in B.C. due to hundreds of wildfires burning around the province. There are now 48 wildfires of note, meaning these wildfires are highly visible or pose a potential threat to public safety. There are 1,500 properties under the evacuation order and 9,000 properties under evacuation alert. This means 3,050 people are on evacuation order with 18,720 on evacuation alert. Here’s a look at the fires burning around B.C. The largest wildfire burning in the province is the Shovel Lake wildfire at 50,831 hectares. It is burning about 6.7 kilometres north of Endako and Highway 16, and about 13 kilometres north of Stallako. Story continues below advertisement View image in full screen The massive Shovel Lake wildfire as seen from Fraser Lake Village. Twyla Lee WATCH: Provincial state of emergency declared in B.C. due to wildfires 3:18 Provincial state of emergency declared in B.C. due to wildfires Provincial state of emergency declared in B.C. due to wildfires – Aug 15, 2018 These photos of the Shovel Lake fire were taken Monday, about two kilometres away from the boundary: Story continues below advertisement View image in full screen Taken Monday, Aug. 13. Submitted by a Global News viewer. View image in full screen Taken Monday, August 13. Submitted by a Global News viewer. Burning nearby is the Island Lake wildfire at 13,000 hectares, the Verdun Mountain wildfire at 4,500 hectares, the Nadina Lake wildfire at 25,000 hectares, the Shag Creek wildfire at 9,300 hectares, the Narcosli Creek wildfire at 3,400 hectares and the Tweedsmuir Complex wildfires, estimated at around 35,000 hectares in size. Here is a look at the smoke in Burns Lake from the wildfires burning: This photo was taken August 14 looking south over Francois Lake from viewer Ron Scott’s cabin, which is close to the ferry landing. Story continues below advertisement View image in full screen Photo of the Francois Lake fire. Credit: Ron Scott. Ron Scott WATCH: Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires 3:29 Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires – Aug 14, 2018 Photos from Fraser Lake: Cori Dewijn spent Tuesday morning helping move cows from the path of the Nadina Lake fire, burning 60 kilometres south of Houston, 63 kilometres southwest of Burns Lake, and seven kilometres southwest of Parrott Lakes. Story continues below advertisement In an email, she said the Nadina Lake fire and the Verdun Mountain fire are closing in from both sides. “The people in the community were amazing as everyone pitched in to help each other as much as they could,” she said. Story continues below advertisement WATCH: Ottawa sending troops to help fight B.C. fires 2:26 BC Wildfires: Ottawa sending troops to help fight fire BC Wildfires: Ottawa sending troops to help fight fire – Aug 14, 2018 The scene in Vanderhoof. Incredible smoke and ash in the air. #BCwildfire pic.twitter.com/iKZcZlt13F — Richard Zussman (@richardzussman) August 15, 2018 An Erickson Air-Crane heavy-lift helicopter doused the flames of the Island Lakes wildfire, burning adjacent to Island Lake, south of Francois Lake. Story continues below advertisement View image in full screen Credit: Rene Crouse. Global News viewer Jessica Gessl has been evacuated from her home due to the Verdun Mountain fire, burning 17 kilometres southwest of Grassy Plains. She has now left her home with her fiance and her seven-month-old son.<doc-sep>More than 150 firefighters and thousands of residents will be closely watching the weather in northern B.C. on Friday as the largest wildfire in the province has people in nearby cities and communities on edge. The Shovel Lake fire prompted an "extreme fire behaviour warning" from the B.C. Wildfire Service on Thursday afternoon. 'It burns like gasoline' CBC News BC 0:30 Logger James Stump describes what it's like being near the Shovel Lake wildfire. 0:30 Officials said the 79,000-hectare (790 square-kilometre) fire — nearly seven times the size of Vancouver — was in danger of being whipped up by strong winds. Fire information officer Claire Allen said the fire held overnight, but gusts of up to 40 km/h are in the forecast for Friday. It’s a #Smokey morning in #Vanderhoof because of nearby #bcwildfires pic.twitter.com/8TjFjHTES9 —@wilfundal "The winds are what we're watching out for today," she said Friday morning. "Whenever we have something like that in the forecast, we have to be very, very careful — both in terms of fire behaviour as well as the safety of our firefighters out on the line." Extreme fire behaviour is characterized by a "fast-spreading, high-intensity crown fire" that can be very difficult to control, according to Natural Resources Canada. Firefighter Christian Garcia, from Mexico, deals with hotspots in an area burned by the Shovel Lake wildfire near Endako, B.C., on Aug. 16. The Shovel Lake wildfire, the biggest blaze in B.C., is more than 680 square kilometres in size. (Darryl Dyck/Canadian Press) A crown fire is one that burns through the treetops and along the forest floor. The smog has made it difficult for crews to fly over the fire and map a plan of attack. Smoke and ash from the fire has clouded over Prince George, leaving the sky a dark, burnt orange colour well into Friday morning. Street lights were still on in some parts of the city well after 10 a.m. Smoke and ash blankets Prince George, B.C. CBC News BC 0:32 Evacuees line up outside an emergency reception centre as smoke from the Shovel Lake wildfire floats over the city. 0:32 Darker yet again in Prince George at 9:10 AM. You can feel the smoke and ash the second you step outside. #CityofPG #BCWildfires pic.twitter.com/geKtWfLjIi —@Nicole_Oud Combined smoke from wildfires in western Canada is visible from NASA's DSCOVR satellite — which is about 1.6 million kilometres away. The clouds of smoke over North America during the past few weeks have been epic. On August 15, 2018, smoke was even visible to DSCOVR, a satellite about 1 million miles away. https://t.co/JbooAosaT2 #NASA #EPIC #AirQuality #wildfires pic.twitter.com/IcwqdWWIh6 —@NASAEarth Historic site threatened The Shovel Lake fire is burning west of Prince George, between Burns Lake and Vanderhoof. The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako urged residents to comply with evacuation orders after the wildfire service's warning on Thursday. The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako has been warned of the risk of extreme fire behaviour from the Shovel Lake wildfire burning west of Prince George. (Andrew Kurjata/CBC) Rob MacDougall, mayor of nearby Fort St. James, said the past few days have been "overwhelming on many fronts." "We haven't experienced the threat of fire in the past and so close," he said. Fort St. James National Historic Site is home to Canada's largest collection of fur trade-era wood buildings. Some are 130 years old. Maintenance teams from Parks Canada have set up a sprinkler system on the roofs of the buildings, wetting the grounds to prevent any sparks from flaming up in the park. Lyle Penner, who works with the park's maintenance team, has been going building to building, ensuring every structure has been sufficiently protected. "Some of these buildings ... are a critical part of Canadian history," he said. Fort St James historic site has sprinklers set up to protect buildings ~130 years old #bcwildfire pic.twitter.com/IqVp3cn52l —@akurjata Evacuation alert for Kimberley Late Thursday, the entire city of Kimberley and properties directly south and southwest of the city in the Regional District East Kootenay were placed on evacuation alert due to fires in that area. Around 7,400 people live in the southeast B.C. city. In a statement, Mayor Don McCormick said residents will be given as much advance notice as possible if they need to leave, but he cautioned there may be limited notice due to changing conditions. An evacuation order was also issued by the district Thursday for residents of 65 properties in the St. Mary Lake area. Members of the RCMP are helping residents leave their homes. More fire information: B.C. is in its third day of a provincewide state of emergency. There are nearly 600 wildfires burning across the province. People living in more than 1,500 properties have been forced to leave, while 9,500 more must be prepared to leave at a moment's notice. The Cariboo Regional District issued an evacuation order for 62 properties in the Dean River North area, including Itcha Ilgachuz Provincial Park, late Thursday. The evacuation route was listed as Highway 20 to Williams Lake. A local state of emergency has been declared in Zeballos — northwest of Tahsis — on northern Vancouver Island as several fires burn out of control in the area. Highway 93 South through Kootenay National Park may be impacted by wildfire smoke this weekend. Traffic has been reduced to 50 km/h through the area of the Wardle wildfire. Around 100 Canadian Armed Forces personnel were deployed early Thursday to an area west of Kelowna, working on the mop-up of contained fires. The Department of National Defence said it's working with the B.C. Wildfire Service to determine where and when to send other troops. Thirty-six new fires started between Wednesday morning and Thursday afternoon, mostly sparked by lightning. B.C. wildfire map: B.C. evacuation map: With files from Yvette Brend, Andrew Kurjata, Michelle Ghoussoub and The Canadian Press Read more from CBC British Columbia<doc-sep>Share this Story: Fires burning in north-central B.C. 'ugly,' threatening ranches and farms: Evacuee Fires burning in north-central B.C. 'ugly,' threatening ranches and farms: Evacuee Hundreds of square kilometres of tinder-dry forests burning south of Burns Lake, threatening ranches and farms Photo by DARRYL DYCK / THE CANADIAN PRESS Article content Mike Robertson can only hope that his ranch in north-central B.C. will be safe. He did all he could until he had to flee because of an evacuation order, putting up fireguards at his lakeside property, which includes large hay fields more than a square kilometre in size. We apologize, but this video has failed to load. tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Fires burning in north-central B.C. 'ugly,' threatening ranches and farms: Evacuee Back to video He described the encroaching fires as vicious and hungry. “It could burn through a rock wall,” he said Saturday during a phone interview from his motorhome at a lake north of the active fire area. “It’s ugly.” Robertson is among the approximately 1,500 “South siders,” as they call themselves, who live in an area about 40 kilometres south of Burns Lake, where wildfires are burning hundreds of square kilometres of tinder-dry forest. Some structures have been burned but Robertson did not know all the details. The wildfires are also threatening other communities in north-central B.C. : Fraser Lake and Fort St. James. Thousands have had to flee because of evacuation orders. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content Some of those have fled east to Prince George, a community of 80,000, the largest in northern B.C. Mayor Lyn Hall said after signing up at the operations centre, evacuees are being put up in motels and hotels — 1,300 so far. It’s the second consecutive year that wildfire evacuees have fled to the city. “We need to be vigilant, ready for these types of occurrences,” Hall said of the role his city plays. Photo by DARRYL DYCK / THE CANADIAN PRESS In the area south of Burns Lake, accessible only by ferry across Francois Lake or remote forest service roads, some residents have stayed behind, including logging contractors, to create fire guards, often done by scraping or plowing the ground of any fuel, to create kilometres of fire breaks. Robertson, who is a senior policy adviser to the Cheslatta Carrier Nation, said the goal is to protect homes, buildings and fields but also timber. “They are trying to save people’s livelihood, save people’s life work.” Under the direction of the B.C. Wildfire Service, more than 200 firefighters are directly battling three main fires in the area with the help of helicopters and heavy equipment such as dozers. The area in and around Burns Lake was ground zero for a mountain pine beetle epidemic that killed large swaths of mature lodgepole pine timber throughout the province beginning in the 1990s. Robertson believes it is one of the factors contributing to the fire behaviour, but added that wind and the extreme dryness are also contributing. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “The wind is tossing them (the fires) around in every direction. The front of the fire lines is overwhelming in size and scale. And the speed these fires are going is extremely scary,” said Robertson. It’s not only people and structures that are in danger. Photo by DARRYL DYCK / THE CANADIAN PRESS About 7,000 livestock have been evacuated from the area, including cattle, horses, goats, sheep and pigs, noted Robertson. They have been taken to communities such as Burns Lake, Houston and Vanderhoof. This year’s fire season is now the third worst on record since 1950. More than 1,800 fires have already burned nearly 5,800 square kilometres, 70 per cent of that in northern B.C. Last year, when 12,000 square kilometres burned, was B.C’s worst fire season. B.C. wildfire information officer Kyla Fraser said Saturday conditions were static, with winds lighter than in previous days, although it continued to be quite smoky. “There is no lightning forecast in the next couple of days and no significant wind events, although we will still see challenging behaviour on some fires,” said Fraser. Unfortunately there is no rain forecast in the next couple of days, she said. Last week, a provincial state of emergency was declared. There are about 3,500 people fighting fires and supporting the effort, including firefighters from Mexico, New Zealand and Australia. Logan Piesse, an Alberta man, who helped out in B.C. last year with a big pickup and trailer carrying in supplies and equipment to communities threatened by fire, is doing the same this year. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content He has been helping out in the Burns Lake area with his close friend Coltin Grobowsky, also from Alberta, whose grandparents live in the area. Piesse was taking a small break in Burns Lake on Saturday where the skies were clear, he said by phone. South of the community was a different story, however, he said. “You go 20 kilometres and it all changes,” said Piesse of the fire activity. “A lot of farms and ranches are under threat.” [email protected] twitter.com/gordon_hoekstra CLICK HERE to report a typo. Is there more to this story? We’d like to hear from you about this or any other stories you think we should know about. Email [email protected] Share this article in your social network Latest National Stories Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Vancouver Sun Headline News Sign up to receive daily headline news from the Vancouver Sun, a division of Postmedia Network Inc. Email Address There was an error, please provide a valid email address. By clicking on the sign up button you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. You may unsubscribe any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of our emails.<doc-sep>
Send this page to someone via email There are now more than 560 wildfires burning around B.C. More than 1,500 properties are under evacuation order and more than 9,000 properties are under an evacuation alert. WATCH: What will the state of emergency mean for the B.C. wildfire fight? 1:46 What will the state of emergency mean for the B.C. wildfire fight? What will the state of emergency mean for the B.C. wildfire fight? – Aug 15, 2018 Officials say a quarter of the fires sparked this season were caused by people, while the rest were caused by lightning. Story continues below advertisement The largest blaze is the Shovel Lake wildfire burning northeast of Burns Lake and southwest of Fort St. James. It is 50,831 hectares in size. Eerie on Hwy 97 between Quesnel and Prince George. Incredibly dark at just past 7pm. #BCWildfire pic.twitter.com/fjQFBnYpI8 — Richard Zussman (@richardzussman) August 15, 2018 The B.C. Wildfire Service says a planned ignition carried out Tuesday on this fire was successful on the west flank. The ignition secured the Hannay Road on the west side, and the objective Wednesday will be to secure this guard. The agency says the fire exhibited aggressive behaviour Tuesday on the southwest flank, driven by high winds in the late afternoon. Equipment and crews were pulled off the line and will be re-establishing objectives for the south flank. Story continues below advertisement Visibility will be an issue for the next few days with the increased smoke. The smoke is so thick in the surrounding region, it’s tricking street lights into coming on in Prince George. The Shovel Lake wildfire is a few hours drive away from Prince George. The sun set is supposed to be 8:20pm tonight in Prince George. This is what it looks like now. #BCwildfire pic.twitter.com/Q29BhlF0si — Richard Zussman (@richardzussman) August 15, 2018 READ MORE: First Nation near Fraser Lake frustrated about lack of firefighting support Ash is floating in the air in Prince George Wednesday morning due to the fires burning nearby. On Aug. 12, the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako declared a local state of emergency in the region. This will remain in place until Aug. 19 unless cancelled by order of the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako or the solicitor general. On Aug. 13, an evacuation order was expanded due to the Shovel Lake wildfire. The order is now in effect for east of the centre of Taltapin Lake to west of the Sutherland Angly FSR and Sutherland FSR, south of the Camsell FSR-Cunningham FSR Junction and Cunningham FSR-Marie North FSR Junction to Stella Rd and the north shore of Fraser Lake to the boundary of Nadleh Whut’en First Nation. Evacuees are asked to register at the ESS reception centre at the Back Entrance of the CN Centre in Prince George, located at 100-2187 Ospika Blvd. Story continues below advertisement WATCH: Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires 3:29 Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires Province continues to battle almost 600 wildfires – Aug 14, 2018 PHOTOS: The Shovel Lake wildfire: Erickson Air Crane heavy lift helicopter dousing flames for us on the Shovel Lake fire. Reports are over 50,000 hectares now! 😩#wildfires #fireforestfire #bcstrong pic.twitter.com/Us8gIKW9lc — Master Crouse (@CrouseMaster) August 15, 2018 Story continues below advertisement @weathernetwork I took this photo at 4pm today outside my office in #Vanderhoof. #BCWildfires. Smoke from the Island Lake and Shovel wildfires. pic.twitter.com/KPJkwaDOrX — Renee D (@ReneeD1979) August 15, 2018 Burning nearby is the Island Lake wildfire at 13,000 hectares, the Verdun Mountain wildfire at 4,500 hectares, the Nadina Lake wildfire at 25,000 hectares, the Shag Creek wildfire at 9,300 hectares, the Narcosli Creek wildfire at 3,400 hectares and the Tweedsmuir Complex wildfires, estimated at around 35,000 hectares in size. View image in full screen Highway 16 between Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake. Credit: Shawna Grey. Highway 16 between Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake. Credit: Shawna Grey. Highway 16 between Fort Fraser and Fraser Lake. Credit: Shawna Grey.
Tite will look to pave the next era of the Brazil side when they face Saudi Arabia in an international friendly ahead of a meeting with Argentina Brazil will get the first stage of their rebuilding process following a disappointing World Cup underway when they face Saudi Arabia in a friendly fixture taking place in Riyadh. Tite has brought stars such as Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho to Saudi Arabia but, with one eye looking ahead to another friendly match against Argentina, he will be likely to assess his squad and probe with different formations. Saudi Arabia will have the chance to prepare for the upcoming Asian Cup in January with the game against Brazil, and also a friendly against Iraq next week. Game Saudi Arabia vs Brazil Date Friday, October 12 Time 7pm BST / 2pm EST TV Channel, Live Stream & How To Watch In the United States (US), the game can be watched live and on-demand with fuboTV (7-day free trial). New users can sign up for a free seven-day trial of the live sports streaming service, which can be accessed via iOS, Android, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Apple TV as well as on a web browser. US TV channel Online stream beIN Sports fubo TV (7-day free trial) In the United Kingdom (UK), the game will not be broadcasted or livestreamed. UK TV channel Online stream N/A N/A Squads & Team News Position Saudi Arabia players Goalkeepers Al-Owais, Al-Bukhari, Al-Rubeai, Malakeyah Defenders Abdulghani, Hawsawi, Al-Shahrani, Al-Breik, Al Mowalad, Al-Fatil, Al-Bulaihi, Al-Khabrani Midfielders Al-Shehri, Al-Faraj, Al-Dawsari, Al-Mogahwi, Otayf, Bahebri, Kanno, Al-Khaibari, Al-Jebreen, Al-Bishi, Al-Habib, Al-Khulaif, Gharib Forwards Assiri, Camara, Adam The biggest surprise within the Saudi camp is the recall of 41-year-old left-back Hussein Abdul Ghani into the team. Ghani will return to the side after a four-year absence, and previously faced the Seleccao twice – in 1997 and 1999. Potential Saudi Arabia XI: Al-Owais; Abdulghani, Hawsawi, Al-Shahrani, Al-Breik; Al-Shehri, Al-Faraj, Al-Dawsari, Al-Mogahwi, Otayf; Assiri, Camara. Position Brazil players Goalkeepers Alisson, Ederson, Phelipe Defenders Miranda, Luis, Marquinhos, Danilo, Sandro, Fabinho, Militao, Pablo Midfielders Coutinho, Augusto, Casemiro, Fred, Arthur, Wallace Forwards Neymar, Moura, Firmino, Jesus, Richarlison, Malcom Tite is predicted to experiment with his side ahead of a massive friendly fixture against Argentina, but will be expected to slot Jesus straight into attack – while the likes of Ederson, Neymar and Coutinho are expected to be handed starts. Real Madrid defender Marcelo has been ruled out of the meetings due to injury. Potential Brazil XI: Ederson; Sandro, Pablo, Marquinhos, Fabinho; Augusto, Casemiro, Fred; Coutinho, Neymar, Jesus. Betting & Match Odds Brazil are priced at 1/10 to win according to bet 365, while a draw is available at 9/1. A win for Saudi Arabia is priced at 18/1. Click here to see all of bet 365's offers for the game, including goalscoring markets, correct score predictions and more. Match Preview Tottenham forward Lucas Moura has earned a recall to the national side after being away for two years, and the likes of Richarlison are also expected to be called upon at some stage in the game – after the young Everton starlet was handed his first call-up during the last international break, scoring against El Salvador on his first start. Brazil won both of their friendly matches against the US national team and El Salvador last month but will still be nursing the pain of being eliminated at the quarter-final stage in the World Cup at the hands of Belgium. Article continues below Saudi Arabia will be busy preparing for their participation in the upcoming Asian Cup, hosted by neighbours United Arab Emirates, after crashing out of the World Cup in the group stage. They opened their Russia campaign with a 5-0 hammering by the hosts in the opening fixture, but managed to beat Egypt 2-1 to finish third in the group. Manager Juan Antonio Pizzi will be eager to improve the form of his team following their showing in Russia and a recent 2-2 friendly draw against Moldova. A Saudi Arabia coach has never, historically, continued with the national team past a World Cup campaign held earlier in the year, but Pizzi has the backing of the Saudi Arabian FF to earn the side their fourth Asian Cup title in January.<doc-sep>Who and where are Brazil playing this month and who is in the squad? The Selecao return to action this month with a Brasil Global Tour double-header against Saudi Arabia and old rivals Argentina This month Brazil return to action as the Brasil Global Tour heads to the Middle East. The Selecao meet Saudi Arabia and old rivals Argentina. in their second post-World Cup international week, coach Tite and his staff have once again handed call-ups to a number of fresh faces as the Selecao look to rebuild ahead of next year's Copa America. WHO ARE BRAZIL PLAYING THIS MONTH? The Chevrolet Brasil Global Tour returns with a double-header in Saudi Arabia. Brazil will meet Saudi Arabia at King Saud University in Riyadh on October 12 before meeting Argentina at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah on October 16 Brazil have faced Saudi Arabia on four occasions - winning each time. The two sides last came together in 2002 when a lone goal from Djalminha earned victory in Riyadh. The five-time world champions’ previous meeting with Argentina arrived on the Brasil Global Tour of Melbourne in 2017, when an experimental side went down 1-0 to their old rivals. WHAT NEXT FOR BRAZIL COACH TITE? That the Brazilian football confederation (CBF) reacted to their World Cup quarter-final exit to Belgium by immediately offering Tite a new contract speaks volumes of the excellent work he has done since his June 2016 appointment. The Selecao was at a particularly low ebb upon his arrival following the infamous 7-1 defeat to Germany at World Cup 2014 and two disappointing Copas America. The former Corinthians man completely transformed the team almost overnight, ensuring the five-time world champions returned to international football’s top table. Tite and his staff have split the next four years into three phases and this month’s Brasil Global Tour is part of the first as the staff evaluate a number of new players ahead of next year’s Copa America in Brazil. Under his command, Brazil have won 22, drawn 4 and lost only twice, with their only defeats being the forementioned loss to Belgium and Argentina. WHO ARE BRAZIL'S NEW PLAYERS? This month’s squad includes three players earning their first ever international call-up in Barcelona’s Malcom, Bordeaux defender Pablo and young Gremio goalkeeper Phelipe. There were no less than eight debuts handed out in September as Neto, Felipe, Eder Militao, Andreas Pereira, Arthur, Lucas Paqueta, Richarlison and Everton all represented their country for the first time at senior level. Only three of those have retained their place in this month’s group – though Everton withdrew through injury and Lucas Paqueta was ineligible due to his club commitments. Wide forward Malcom faces stiff competition to earn a regular place right now in a position in which Brazil are strongest, but the Barcelona man is highly thought of by Tite and is tipped to have a long-term future with the Selecao. Pablo was a surprise inclusion and has a chance to stake his claim for a regular place as Brazil’s two World Cup centre-backs, Miranda and Thiago Silva, are now both 34-years-old. 19-yeaer-old goalkeeper Phelipe, meanwhile, has arrived to replace Flamengo’s Hugo in what is set to be trend of the next few months as Tite gives young custodians some first-hand experience of the senior squad. Lucas Moura and Hannover defensive midfielder Walace have also earned their first call-ups under Tite. WHO DROPPED OUT AND WHO REPLACED THEM? Coach Tite has become well-accustomed to late withdrawals from his Brazil squads. And this month has been no different. Real Madrid left-back Marcelo was a high-profile omission from September’s Brasil Global Tour, during which Alex Sandro made a strong claim to make the spot his own. Marcelo was recalled for this month’s games but was forced to withdraw through injury and was replaced by Filipe Luis. Gremio forward Everton was delighted to be recalled following his first call-up last month but he too fell victim to injury, which handed Tottenham’s Lucas Moura a long-awaited recall. Brazil squad in full: Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Man City), Phelipe (Gremio). Centre-backs: Marquinhos (PSG), Miranda (Inter), Pablo (Bordeaux), Eder Militao (Porto). Full-backs: Alex Sandro (Juventus), Danilo (Man City), Fabinho (Liverpool), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid). Midfielders: Arthur (Barcelona), Casermiro (Real Madrid), Fred (Manchester United), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan), Wallace (Hannover). Forwards: Roberto Firmino (Liverpool), Gabriel Jesus (Man City), Malcom (Barcelona), Neymar (PSG), Richarlison (Everton), Lucas Moura (Tottenham). WHAT IS BRAZIL'S FIRST TEAM? Ahead of this month’s matches there were as few five players who appeared absolute starters as Tite looks to evolve his side ahead of the Copa America. Dani Alves appears to have played his final game for this country, as have a a number of aging members of the World Cup squad including Fernandinho, Fagner, Pedro Geromel and Paulinho. On Tuesday Tite presented his XI to face Saudi Arabia (below) but there are likely to be some changes for the test with Argentina a few days later. After having spent much of his first two years in charge making very few changes to both the starting XI and the squad overall, the coaching staff have made good on their promise that the September, October and November friendlies would be used to trial new players as they begin to build towards Qatar 2022. Follow a new era for Brazilian football by joining us on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .<doc-sep>The camera panned to the Brazilian huddle just before kick-off and two men could be seen rallying their teammates: Neymar and Casemiro. In Brazil coach Tite’s latest generation of the Brazil squad, Neymar and Madrid’s own Casemiro stand out as the clear leaders and veteran heads. On paper, this match looked like a walk in the park for Brazil, but the Saudi’s put up a good fight. Brazil only led narrowly throughout the match, in fact, they were 1-0 up until the 93rd minute. It was a late headed goal from Alex Sandro that helped create a bit more distance between the two teams. Saudi Arabia showed a decent technical level and looked to play once they had the ball in their possession. From a Madrid perspective, Casemiro was solid and fortunately was substituted in the 65th minute—likely to get some rest ahead of Brazil’s match agaisnt eternal rivals, Argentina. Casemiro played as single pivot in Tite’s traditional 4-3-3 formation. Manchester United’s Fred and Renato Augusto of Beijing Guoan both played centrally, either side of Casemiro. Interestingly, Casemiro is given more responsibility to build play with Brazil and can often been seen splitting the two center backs and picking up the ball to start Brazil’s next possesion. The Saudi’s failed to produce any cohesive press and preferred to sit back as the match wore on, so Casemiro’s comfort on the ball was evident. Overall, it was a good game for Case who will gave all eyes focused on the Argentina game.<doc-sep>Gabriel Jesus put a stuttering start to his Premier League season behind him to setup a simple Brazil victory over 10-man Saudi Arabia. Manchester City hotshot Jesus managed just his second goal of the season, with his previous strike coming against Oxford in the Carabao Cup. The striker broke the deadlock, having previously had a strike ruled out for offside, with a perfect clip finish after he was assisted by Neymar. Philippe Coutinho also had the ball in the net before half time but also saw the flag raised by the linesman. The Green Falcons didn't embarrass themselves at the King Abdullah Sports City Reserve Stadium and bossed the second half in 90 degree heat. But their threat was killed off when Al Owais was sent off, after a VAR decision, for handling a Richarlison shot outside the area. Alex Sandro added a second for the World Cup quarter-finalists in stoppage time when he nodded in Neymar's pin-point corner.<doc-sep>
Brazil have added the final touches to their preparations for Friday's clash against Saudi Arabia. Tite put his men through their paces on Thursday in Riyadh before confirming Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson has been given the nod over Liverpool rival Alisson to start in goal for the friendly. Ederson, 25, admitted in a press conference earlier this week that Brazil team-mate Alisson was ahead of him in the national team pecking order. Brazil boss Tite has confirmed Ederson will start in goal ahead of Alisson against Saudi Arabia Neymar and co were put through their paces on Thursday for the last time before the match The Brazilian players worked on all aspects of the game, including several fitness exercises But the City No 1, who has made just one senior international appearance, has been told by Brazil boss Tite that he will start in Riyadh. '(On Monday), just after training, he (Tite) talked to me and Alisson,' Ederson told a press conference during their training camp at Tottenham's Enfield base. 'He said I'm going to play the first game and Alisson the second. I was very happy and I feel prepared.' Ederson, who joined City from Benfica for £35million in July 2017, played second fiddle at Russia 2018 to Alisson, who started every match. Ederson had previously said this week that Alisson (back right) was one step ahead of him However, after impressing his boss in training this week, Tite has decided to start him on Friday Alisson is in his first season at Liverpool after his £67m summer move from Roma and the two goalkeepers went head-to-head for their respective clubs in last Sunday's goalless Premier League draw at Anfield. Brazil have beaten the USA 2-0 and El Salvador 5-0 since losing to Belgium in the last eight of the World Cup in Kazan. Despite their quarter-final exit, Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho said Tite's squad had learned a lot from Russia 2018 and are looking to regain momentum before hosting next summer's 2019 Copa America. '(The World Cup) is a tournament that demands a lot,' Coutinho said. 'All the pressure it puts on you requires a lot psychologically. Roberto Firmino (centre) dribbles the ball during Thursday's training session in Riyadh Brazil stars get drenched in water as the sprinklers go off during their final training session 'But sure enough, the players leave more experienced. I feel a bit more experienced after having participated in a World Cup and now we have started a new cycle. 'I'm very happy to be here one more time. Thinking ahead, we have important competitions. The Copa America is next and until then we have to form a strong base.' Hannover midfielder Walace has been recalled to the squad for Friday's game and next Tuesday's friendly against Argentina in Jeddah, while Barcelona forward Malcom, Bordeaux defender Pablo and Gremio goalkeeper Phelipe have all received their first senior call-ups.
SHAMED Bill Cosby laughed after he was sentenced to three to ten years for drugging and sexually assaulting a woman. The disgraced comedian, 81, was seen joking with his legal team in Montgomery County court before he was led away in handcuffs last night. 19 Shamed Bill Cosby's booking mugshot after he was processed at the Montgomery County Jail 19 The disgraced comedian, 81, was led out of the court in handcuffs carrying a wooden cane Credit: AP:Associated Press Judge Steven O'Neill branded Cosby a "sexually violent predator" as he jailed him for three counts of indecent assault following the drugging and sex attack of former friend Andrea Constand at his Philadelphia home in 2004. "It is time for justice. Mr Cosby, this has all circled back to you. The time has come," Judge O'Neill told the comedian. However, Cosby spokesman Andrew Wyatt said his client was "doing great" after learning of his prison sentence. The judge yesterday said the evidence was bolstered by five other accusers, including supermodel Janice Dickenson, 63. 19 Cosby was also seen smiling as he arrived for his sentencing Credit: AP:Associated Press 19 The fallen TV star now faces up to ten years in a state prison Credit: AFP or licensors It completes the dizzying fall from grace for the comedian- who became the first big star to be convicted for sex abuse since the start of the #MeToo movement. Cosby stumbled as he was led out of the court in handcuffs carrying a wooden cane. When asked to comment on his sentence, he said nothing. Cosby emptied his pockets and removed his tie before being taken into custody for his official prison mugshot, reports TMZ. He will spend the first few days of his prison sentence at the Montgomery County Jail outside Philadelphia. From there, he'll be taken to SCI Phoenix, a brand new 3,830-bed state prison outside Philadelphia, where staff will assess his physical, medical and security needs. 19 Cosby's victim Andrea Constand (c) attends a press conference after the sentencing Credit: AFP or licensors 19 The fallen star was flanked by sheriff s following his sentencing Credit: AP:Associated Press The fallen star's lawyers have already vowed to appeal the conviction. His spokesman Andrew Wyatt branded it the most racist and sexist trial in he history of the United States. Mr Wyatt said: "Mr Cosby knows that God is watching over him. He knows that these are lies. They persecuted Jesus and look what happened. "I'm not saying Mr Cosby is Jesus, but we know what this country has done to black men for centuries. "So Mr Cosby is doing fine. He's holding up well and everybody who wants to say anything negative, you're a joke as well." Montgomery County Court Judge O'Neill also decided to designate Cosby a "sexually violent predator" under Pennsylvania law. 19 Andrea Constand embraces former model Janice Dickinson Credit: AP:Associated Press 19 Cosby is escorted out of the Montgomery County Correctional Facility Credit: AP:Associated Press That means he will have to undergo monthly counselling and register as a sex offender with police for the rest of his life. Neighbours and schools will be notified of his address and crimes. Cosby also declined the opportunity to speak before his sentence came down, and afterwards he sat and chatted with his spokesman and a lawyer, seemingly in good spirits. His wife of 54 years, Camille, was not in court but did later release a statement saying prosecutors had used "falsified evidence" to win a conviction against him. Cosby's victim Andrea Constand smiled upon hearing the punishment and was hugged by her friends in the courtroom. The star's lawyers for bail but this was refused by the judge. 19 Cosby's wife of 54 years, Camille, was not in court to see him led away Credit: Reuters 19 Cosby will have to register as a sex offender with police for the rest of his life Credit: 2018 Getty Images 19 Cosby's lawyers had asked that he be allowed to remain free on bail Credit: 2018 Getty Images 19 Accuser Victoria Valentino reacts after the comedian was sentenced to three to 10 years Credit: Getty Images - Getty Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele rejected the notion that Cosby's age and infirmity entitle him to mercy. "He was good at hiding this for a long time. Good at suppressing this for a long time. So it's taken a long time to get there," Steele said. After the sentencing Steele said heused his fame and fortune to "hide his true self and hide his crimes," intimidating his victims into keeping them silent for decades. More than 50 other women also have accused Cosby of sexual abuse going back decades, with most complaints too old to prosecute. The Constand case was the only allegation that led to criminal charges. On the first day of the sentencing hearing, she said in a written statement that the attack had turned her into a woman who was "stuck in a holding pattern for most of her adult life, unable to heal fully or to move forward." "Bill Cosby took my beautiful, healthy young spirit and crushed it," she wrote. 19 The Hollywood star's new home will be a cell at the State Correctional Institution at Phoenix Credit: AP:Associated Press 19 The high-secure state prison is surrounded by fences topped with razor wire Credit: AP:Associated Press 19 Prison staff will assess Cosby's physical, medical and security needs Credit: Reuters 19 A number of accusers, including model Janice Dickinson, were on hand for the sentencing hearing Credit: AP:Associated Press Prosecutors had asked for the maximum prison sentence of between five and 10 years, citing the nature of Cosby's crime as well as his alleged history of misconduct. They had also asked the judge to levy a £20,000 fine on Cosby and make him pay court costs. If ever he comes up for parole, prosecutors want him to submit to the "psycho-sexual evaluation" he had refused prior to sentencing. Citing Cosby's frailty and blindness, Cosby's lawyers had asked for house arrest rather than prison time. Cosby's first trial in 2017 ended in a mistrial when jurors could not reach a unanimous verdict. Soon after that proceeding, a series of women began levelling sexual misconduct allegations against influential men, launching the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements. 19 Andrea Constand, centre left, stands behind Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele Credit: AP:Associated Press 19 Some of Cosby's accusers outside of court house waiting for the shamed star to arrive on Monday Credit: Rex Features 19 The 81-year-old fallen star was facing up to 30 years in prison Credit: AFP or licensors Kathy McKee, a former actress who has accused Cosby of raping her, told CNN that listening to the news about his sentencing stirred up some "very difficult and deep emotions." Still, she said she is happy Judge O'Neill sentenced Cosby accordingly and is grateful to Andrea Constand "for standing strong." "I wanted 30 years, but I'm very happy to know Mr. Cosby will do time in prison," said Chelan Lasha, who gave tearful testimony in court about the time she says Cosby drugged and groped her. When the ruling was announced, a woman in courtroom put her fist into the air and whispered, "Yessss!" Cosby, whose estimated fortune once topped £300m, broke barriers in the 1960s as the first black actor to star in a network show, "I Spy." Quotes from the hearing and reactions to Bill Cosby's sentence "Bill Cosby took my beautiful, healthy young spirit and crushed it. He robbed me of my health and vitality, my open nature, and my trust in myself and others. ...We may never know the full extent of his double life as a sexual predator but his decades-long reign of terror as a serial rapist is over." Andrea Constand, in her victim impact statement. "No one is above the law. And no one should be treated disproportionately because of who they are, where they live, or even their wealth, celebrity or philanthropy. ...I am not permitted to treat him any differently because of who he is, or who he was. ...It is time for justice.<doc-sep>Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window) Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) NORRISTOWN, Pa. – Bill Cosby burst out laughing in court on Tuesday – moments after he was sentenced to three to 10 years in state prison for a 2004 sex assault. The 81-year-old convicted sex offender was seen cracking jokes with his team in Montgomery County court, as sheriff’s officers swooped in to take him directly into custody. Cosby handed over his wallet, tie and watch to authorities before Judge Steven O’Neill ordered him remanded. “My reasons for the sentence are the reasons I’m relying on in denying this defendant bail. This is a serious crime he’s been sentenced for,” O’Neill explained in court. Cosby had been free on $1 million bail since his arrest in December 2015. The courtroom was cleared before Cosby, wearing red suspenders and a white shirt, was cuffed from the front and led out of the courtroom through a hallway. He carried his cane in both hands. Meanwhile, one of his dozens of accusers, supermodel Janice Dickinson, was nearly booted from the packed courtroom for loudly laughing during a break in the proceedings.<doc-sep>NEW A vastly improved search engine helps you find the latest on companies, business leaders, and news more easily.<doc-sep>
Bill Cosby reportedly laughed in court as a judge branded him a "sexually violent predator" and sentenced him to between three and 10 years in prison for sexual assault. The shamed comedian is said to have been seen joking with his legal team before being marched out of court in shackles on Tuesday, according to the New York Post. Cosby, 81, was found guilty in April of three counts of aggravated indecent assault for the drugging and sexual assault of Andrea Constand at his Philadelphia home in 2004. He is the first celebrity to be convicted of sexual abuse since the start of the MeToo movement. Cosby must spend at least three years in a Pennsylvania prison before he becomes eligible for supervised release, though he could end up behind bars for up to a decade. (Image: REUTERS) (Image: AFP) Judge Steven O'Neill ordered Cosby to be jailed immediately, denying Cosby's request for bail while lawyers appeal the conviction. He was escorted out a back door of the courthouse with his hands and feet shackled and driven away in a black sport utility vehicle. Minutes earlier, Constand left court with her arms folded, a smile spreading across her face as other women who have accused Cosbycame to hug her. Several of those women spoke to reporters in the rain outside the courtroom. "I wanted 30 years, but I'm very happy to know Mr. Cosby will do time in prison," said Chelan Lasha, who gave tearful testimony in court about the time she says Cosby drugged and groped her in the 1980s. (Image: AFP) (Image: AFP) O'Neill also fined Cosby $25,000 and ordered him to pay the costs of the prosecution. There was no visible reaction from the disgraced entertainer as he learned his fate. "Equal justice under the law does not allow different treatment because of who he is or who he was," O'Neill said. Cosby cemented his family-friendly reputation playing the affable Dr. Cliff Huxtable in the 1980s television comedy The Cosby Show. "He hid behind Dr. Cliff Huxtable," Kevin Steele, the county district attorney who led the prosecution, told reporters afterwards. "Before he was taken away in handcuffs, a lot of people believed this was who he was. We know otherwise." (Image: REUTERS) After the sentencing, Andrew Wyatt, Cosby's spokesman, read a lengthy statement in which he decried what he called "the most racist and sexist trial in the history of the United States." O'Neill also decided to designate Cosby a "sexually violent predator" under Pennsylvania law, which means Cosby will have to undergo monthly counseling and register as a sex offender with police for the rest of his life. Neighbours and schools will be notified of his address, certain movements and crimes, as will Constand. When prosecutors told Cosby in court he would not have to inform Constand of his movements himself but that a proxy would do so, he replied: "Good!" Cosby has denied any wrongdoing. Asked if he wanted to address the court with a statement before sentencing, Cosby declined through his lawyers. His lawyers had asked that Cosby be placed under house arrest, citing his age and frailty. (Image: REUTERS/Brendan McDermid) (Image: X90143) More than 50 women have accused Cosby of sexual abuse going back decades, with most complaints too old to prosecute. The Constand case was the only allegation that led to criminal charges. Constand said in a written statement submitted to the court on Monday that the attack had turned her into a woman who was "stuck in a holding pattern for most of her adult life, unable to heal fully or to move forward." "Bill Cosby took my beautiful, healthy young spirit and crushed it," she wrote. Cosby's first trial in 2017 ended in a mistrial when jurors could not reach a unanimous verdict. Prison officials will process Cosby at the nearby state prison in Schwenksville before determining in which of Pennsylvania's 22 male prisons he will serve his sentence, prison spokeswoman Amy Worden wrote in an email. He will be one of 86 inmates over age 80 held by Pennsylvania's Department of Corrections, where the two oldest inmates are both 91, Worden said.
C.J. Beathard sharp enough to win in 49ers’ Week 4 loss to Chargers follow By Peter Panacy Sep 30, 2018 at 5:33 PM • Shop on Amazon to support this writer The San Francisco 49ers fell to 1-3 after falling to the Los Angeles Chargers 29-27 in Week 4. And while he was far from perfect, quarterback C.J. Beathard showed a lot of improvement over what he flashed his rookie season. The rest of 2018 probably appeared to be no more than doom and gloom for the San Francisco 49ers and their fans after losing franchise quarterback But Beathard was actually pretty good in the Niners' 29-27 Week 4 loss on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Not perfect, but good. C.J. Beathard gave the #49ers everything today with 298 yards and two touchdowns. Could easily argue both interceptions weren't his fault. He was impressive. — Joe Fann (@Joe_Fann) September 30, 2018 In a game which featured multiple injuries to San Francisco's offensive line, including left tackle Joe Staley being removed for a knee injury, Beathard still managed to handle the pressure from Los Angeles relatively well until his late game-sealing interception in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter. "I thought he played well," head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters after the game. "We came up short there at the end. ... but he gave us the chance to win today. He played tough, made some very big plays, especially with the situation and guys going in and out. He handled a lot of adversity well and a lot of chaos with some of the injuries." Beathard spiked the offense, going 23-of-37 for 298 yards and two touchdowns against two interceptions, all for a passer rating of 82.9. Again, not great. But good enough to inspire some confidence he's made strides since last season. And it was even more impressive, given the 49ers weren't able to get running back Matt Breida going for most of the game. Breida finished with just 39 yards on nine carries. At the 3:53 mark of the first quarter, Beathard hit wide receiver Kendrick Bourne for a Touchdown #49ers. CJ Beathard hits Kendrick Bourne for six, taking the 14-0 lead over the #Chargers with 3:53 remaining in the first quarter. #SFvsLAC pic.twitter.com/hT5lWl2qh4 — Rob Lowder (@Rob_Lowder) September 30, 2018 It was just one of a number of throws the quarterback made in tight windows on the game. Beathard also made good use of tight end GEORGE KITTLE. 82 yards to the end zone! #GoNiners #SFvsLAC 📺: CBS pic.twitter.com/jdcw26tOeC — NFL (@NFL) September 30, 2018 With the offensive line banged up, Beathard took a number of hits again from Los Angeles' defense, one of which knocked the wind out of him and forced him to the sidelines for a short bit. And while pressure led to one of his two interceptions, the one by Chargers EDGE Isaac Rochell at the end of the game, Beathard still managed to display the same kind of toughness that endeared him to both his teammates and fans last year. "You're not really thinking about it when you're in the pocket," Beathard admitted when describing the injury to Staley. It sure appeared as if Beathard wasn't worried about it much, although the Niners certainly would have benefited from staying healthy throughout the game. Beathard and the 49ers have a chance to turn things around in Week 5 when the winless Arizona Cardinals come to town. Written by: Peter Panacy Peter Panacy has been writing about the 49ers since 2011 for outlets like Bleacher Report, Niner Noise, 49ers Webzone, and is occasionally heard as a guest on San Francisco's 95.7 FM The Game and the Niners' flagship station, KNBR 680. Feel free to follow him, or direct any inquiries to his Twitter account. @PeterPanacy The rest of 2018 probably appeared to be no more than doom and gloom for the San Francisco 49ers and their fans after losing franchise quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a season-ending ACL injury in Week 3. After all, that meant second-year pro C.J. Beathard, a quarterback whose 69.2 passer rating last year ranked 31st out of 32 starters, would be at the helm for the duration of the season.But Beathard was actually pretty good in the Niners' 29-27 Week 4 loss on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Not perfect, but good.In a game which featured multiple injuries to San Francisco's offensive line, including left tackle Joe Staley being removed for a knee injury, Beathard still managed to handle the pressure from Los Angeles relatively well until his late game-sealing interception in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter. "I thought he played well," head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters after the game. "We came up short there at the end. ... but he gave us the chance to win today. He played tough, made some very big plays, especially with the situation and guys going in and out. He handled a lot of adversity well and a lot of chaos with some of the injuries. "Beathard spiked the offense, going 23-of-37 for 298 yards and two touchdowns against two interceptions, all for a passer rating of 82.9. Again, not great. But good enough to inspire some confidence he's made strides since last season.And it was even more impressive, given the 49ers weren't able to get running back Matt Breida going for most of the game. Breida finished with just 39 yards on nine carries. "I felt a lot more comfortable than going out there last year," Beathard told reporters following the game.At the 3:53 mark of the first quarter, Beathard hit wide receiver Kendrick Bourne for a two-yard touchdown score:It was just one of a number of throws the quarterback made in tight windows on the game.Beathard also made good use of tight end George Kittle , who led the Niners offense with six receptions, 125 yards and a touchdown.<doc-sep>With C.J. Beathard now the cemented starter at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Niner Noise breaks down what to expect in his first start of 2018 in Week 4 versus the Los Angeles Chargers. OK, so the mourning period is over for the San Francisco 49ers. Jimmy Garoppolo is no longer the Niners’ starting quarterback for 2018 after suffering his season-ending ACL tear, meaning this is now second-year pro C.J. Beathard‘s show from here onward. “Onward” being the key word. The 49ers visit the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 4, who boast the same 1-2 record as the Niners but also possess a dangerous passing attack with veteran quarterback Philip Rivers under center. To counter, head coach Kyle Shanahan needs to ensure Beathard and the offense responds effectively enough to negate the scoring prowess Rivers and Co. can produce. If this was in the context of last year, San Francisco wouldn’t have much of a chance at all. Beathard was certainly a part of the Niners’ early struggles in 2017. Both his 54.9 completion percentage and 69.2 passer rating his rookie season ranked 31st among 32 qualifiers last year. Not exactly a ringing endorsement of confidence for the former Iowa Hawkeye. The good news, however, is Beathard possesses that full year’s worth of development. And one might make the argument the Niners offense is significantly improved over what the quarterback had to deal with when he was essentially thrown into the fire last season. Will that be enough to help San Francisco reach for its second win of 2018? It’s hard to say. But with that as a backdrop, what should we expect from Beathard in Week 4 as he and the 49ers look to upset the Chargers?<doc-sep>CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device CARSON – Here is how the 49ers (1-3) graded in Sunday’s 29-27 defeat to the host Los Angeles Chargers (2-2) before a sold-out crowd of 25,397 at the StubHub Center: PASS OFFENSE: C- C.J. Beathard’s starting debut went as expected, in that he endured some brutal hits and mixed in some positive plays but not enough to rally the undermanned 49ers. Injuries are ruining this unit’s chances, and Sunday saw knee injuries sustained by offensive tackles Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey, plus wide receiver Dante Pettis. George Kittle’s 82-yard touchdown catch keyed comeback dreams and led to his career-high 125 receiving yards. Beathard finished with 298 yards, two touchdowns and two crushing interceptions, including one that bounced off Garrett Celek’s hands and one that ended their comeback. RUN OFFENSE: D The league’s second-ranked rushing attack was held to only 3.6 yards per carry with few lanes for Matt Breida (nine carries, 39 yards) and Alfred Morris (four carries, 14 yards). Beathard had the most inspiring runs, albeit dangerous ones that exposed him to injury when they can least afford to have him hurt with Jimmy Garoppolo already done for the year. PASS DEFENSE: D+ Philip Rivers atoned for his horrendous pick-six to Antone Exum on the first series by shredding the defense for three touchdown passes and 250 yards. Coverage breakdowns keyed those touchdown drives, as did poor tackling. Greg Mabin forced a fumble and looked like an upgrade upon replacing Ahkello Witherspoon. D.J. Reed started ahead of Adrian Colbert at free safety, and although we may be reading too much into that switch, Colbert was healthy enough to play special teams. Rivers was sacked once – a weekly reminder of the 49ers’ anemic pass rush. RUN DEFENSE: D Melvin Gordon had 104 yards on only 15 carreis and averaged 6.9 yards by repeatedly running through tacklers, a season-long issue for Robert Saleh’s defense. Fred Warner and Reuben Foster still are getting acclimated to each other and the 49ers should stick with that tandem. Defensive stops in the second half kept this unit from flunking out. SPECIAL TEAMS: C- This was their worst showing in a long time, aside from Robbie Gould staying perfect (2 for 2 on field goals, 3 for 3 on point-after kicks which shouldn’t be ignored after the Chargers missed two PATs). Bradley Pinion (30.6 net average) saved a touchdown with his kick-save tackle on a 56-yard punt return. Pettis was hurt on a punt return that lost 3 yards, and Reed was lucky to have replay nullify his fumbled kickoff return in the fourth quarter. Related Articles Have 49ers been priced out of a possible Julio Jones trade? ESPN report suggests steep cost Inside the 49ers: Kittle’s comeback, Shanahan’s doodling, Warner’s extension, Garoppolo’s radio wars Pioneering coach Katie Sowers finds new spot in NFL after leaving 49ers’ staff Fred Warner ‘obviously wants to be a Niner for life’ as contract talks loom How 49ers’ running back stable is impacted by Jeff Wilson’s knee surgery COACHING: C- Kyle Shanahan’s job keeps getting harder with every devastating injury to a starter. His offensive play calls can still deliver winners, like a red-zone score by Kendrick Bourne or an 82-yard TD by Kittle on a play they’ve long practiced but waited to call until this game. Three straight pass plays backfired in the final minute before halftime, leading to a huge punt return and game-tying field goal. As for Saleh’s defense (and the punt-return defense), yikes. All three losses have come on the road, so the 49ers must rule at Levi’s to survive this injury-plagued season.<doc-sep>The 49ers began the rest of their season without Jimmy Garoppolo Sunday when they traveled south to face the Los Angeles Chargers. Kyle Shanahan’s squad put on their best face against L.A. Their valiant effort resulted in a 29-27 defeat that came down to the final minutes of the fourth quarter. Here are our studs and duds from Sunday’s loss: Stud: QB C.J. Beathard 49ers fans were prepared for the worst when Beathard took the field as a starter for the first time since Week 12 of last season. What they got was something far more encouraging. The 49ers’ second-year backup put on a surprising display of proficient grit against the Chargers, completing 23 of 37 passes for 298 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions – neither of which were entirely his fault. Beathard gave the 49ers a chance to win in his 2018 debut. Dud: TE Garrett Celek Speaking of interceptions not belonging to Beathard, Celek’s red zone drop-turned-interception and subsequent 86-yard return by the Chargers may have turned the tide of Sunday’s contest. The 49ers offense was cruising down the field in the third quarter, and with the help of some roughing the passer penalties, seemed poised to punch it in for six. Beathard targeted the veteran tight end on a short out-route. The ball bouced off his chest and into the hands of the Chargers defense. It was a deflating play and essentially a 10-point swing falling squarely on Celek’s shoulders.<doc-sep>
The San Francisco 49ers played their first game without quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, and they came oh so close to getting the upset. C.J. Beathard threw for 298 yards and two touchdowns, but a late interception after a huge pass rush prevented the 49ers from getting into the needed field goal range. The Los Angeles Chargers won by a final score of 32-27. The 49ers jumped out to an early lead, getting a pick six of Philip Rivers on the third play of the game, and adding a Kendrick Bourne touchdown late in the first quarter. The 14-0 lead had most everybody surprised. However, both sides of the ball slowed down in the second quarter. The 49ers led 17-6, but gave up a field goal and a touchdown to go into halftime tied with the Chargers. The Chargers scored a touchdown and field goal in the third quarter as the 49ers were losing a war of attrition. They lost Joe Staley and Dante Pettis to knee injuries, and Mike McGlinchey was knocked out for a couple series with his own injury. McGlinchey did return, but the team struggled with injuries. The 49ers did battle back, scoring a touchdown on an 82-yard catch and run score by George Kittle, and then adding a field goal to take a 27-26 lead. The Chargers managed a field goal of their own, and after some back-and-forth, the 49ers got the ball back trailing 29-27. They were moving the ball when the Chargers pass rush got to Beathard and he was picked off by a defensive lineman. The Chargers got a needed first down and was able to take a knee to close the game out. Beathard was the star of the game for the 49ers. He made some huge plays, and his two interceptions were not really his fault. The first was a drop by Garrett Celek, and the second came when he got bum-rushed by the pass rush. I don’t think we could have asked for much more from Beathard today. Up next: vs. Arizona Cardinals (0-4) Arizona came up short in a near upset at home of the Seattle Seahawks and remain winless on the season. The 49ers will be a two or three point favorite in this game, likely one of the few remaining games in which they’ll be favored. But given how C.J. Beathard looked against the Chargers, this is a game they need to win to show some development.
President Trump invited the North Dakota State Bison, the seven-time NCAA Football Championship Subdivision winners, to the White House Monday, and once again rolled out a menu of a few of his favorite fast-food dishes. The president reportedly served the young men a buffet of McDonald’s hamburgers — same as he did when he hosted National Champion winners, the Clemson Tigers, in January. However, this time he added fan-favorite Chick-fil-A to the mix, with a selection of what appeared to be chicken sandwiches, chicken nuggets and the fast-food chain’s signature sauces. TRUMP PLANS TO SERVE MCDONALD'S, WENDY'S, BURGER KING DURING DINNER WITH VISITING COLLEGE FOOTBALL TEAM “We like American companies, OK?” Trump said of his choice of food offerings. President Trump greeted the athletes, calling the group, “big, strong, powerful champions." The Bison reportedly approached the trip as a team bonding experience. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP “We addressed [politics],” Coach Matt Entz told the Grand Forks Herald. “This isn’t a political trip, this is a Bison trip and, personally, I sold it as two things: It’s one more opportunity for the 2018 team to be together, but also in my mind the start of the 2019 season and the things we’re going to do together.” As expected, the White House’s fast-food treatment sparked plenty of negative reactions on Twitter. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS Before the meal, the Bison team awarded the president with an honorary jersey with his name and the number “45” on the back.<doc-sep>The North Dakota State Bison celebrated their record seventh FCS national championship with a trip to the White House for a fast-food feast — similar to what the Clemson Tigers had for their visit in January. Lost in the reignited discussion about serving national champions cold or re-heated fast food was a subtle protest from offensive lineman Jack Albrecht. But that was the point. Albrecht didn’t want to steal attention or distract from his team’s visit Monday, The Washington Post reported, but he also chose to express his political views, which contrast those of Donald Trump. So he wore a small Democratic Socialists of America pin on the lapel of his jacket. Via The Washington Post: The idea, according to (Zac Echola, treasurer of the Red River Valley chapter of the DSA), came directly from Albrecht, one of 120 members of the Red River Valley chapter. “I can’t really speak to his motivation, but he wanted to make a statement,” Echola said. “I think he said something very powerful to us once at a meeting. ‘Staying home doesn’t actually say anything, right?’ He also didn’t want to disrupt things for his teammates, so the pin was a quiet protest.” It was barely noticeable unless you knew to look for it. But it stands out in the photos Albrecht tweeted of himself from the team’s day trip to Washington, D.C. Checking in from an action-packed day in DC pic.twitter.com/fvTDDfXmNG — Jack Albrecht (@JackRAlbrecht) March 5, 2019 More from The Washington Post: “We had an opportunity,” Echola said. “We had a football player and [he] wanted to quietly protest and wear a pin. We gave him one.” On the evening of North Dakota State’s visit, the Red River Valley chapter celebrated the fact that Albrecht wore their pin to make a quiet statement. The term “socialism” is becoming increasingly charged and polarizing; congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a member of the DSA, regularly dominates headlines for pushing her platform — and receives significant backlash from Republicans. Everyone seems to have a varying definition or interpretation of the concept of socialism, in general, and of the Democratic Socialists in particular. So what’s the platform of the group in North Dakota that Albrecht belongs to? According to the official DSA chapter’s Facebook page, the group: “…seeks to facilitate the transition to a truly democratic society, one in which the means and resources of production are democratically and socially controlled. We reject an economic order based on private profit, alienated labor, gross inequalities of wealth and power, discrimination and brutality and violence in defense of the status quo. … Our conception of socialism is a profoundly democratic one. It is rooted in the belief that human beings should be free to develop to their fullest potential, that public policies should be determined not by wealth but by popular participation, and that individual liberties should be carefully safeguarded.” A computer engineering major, Albrecht is a redshirt junior with the Bison. He played in two games in 2017 as a sophomore and one during the team’s perfect 15-0 2018 season. On his Twitter profile, his description reads: “This snowflake is an avalanche. Support the Homies.” He’s also tweeted about himself as an artist and music lover, and he occasionally makes political statements, including calling out or making fun of both Republicans and Democrats. And you may ask yourself What is that beautiful house? And you may ask yourself Where does that highway go to? And you may ask yourself Am I right? Am I wrong? And you may say yourself, "My God! What have I done?" https://t.co/tlOoQZwhDi — Jack Albrecht (@JackRAlbrecht) February 13, 2019 Can't get the image of Amy Klobuchar angrily eating salad with a hair comb, screaming at her employees 😂😂😂😂 — Jack Albrecht (@JackRAlbrecht) March 3, 2019 I have always used the League of Women Voters of Illinois to help me decide which Judicial candidates to vote yes and no on in Cook County. North Dakota doesn't have as many judges, but here is a helpful guide to some of the measures up for vote today. pic.twitter.com/Lc4HWIkazN — Jack Albrecht (@JackRAlbrecht) November 6, 2018 VOTE OR DIE — Jack Albrecht (@JackRAlbrecht) November 6, 2018<doc-sep>Another championship football team visited the White House on Monday. And President Donald Trump once again had a buffet of fast food waiting for his guests. Trump welcomed the Football Championship Subdivision champions — the North Dakota State Bison — to the White House on Monday. And, according to a pool report, he served them a lunchtime spread of Big-Macs, Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches and french fries, among other fast-food items. Trump served a similar meal to the Clemson Tigers when they visited the White House in January. According to the pool report, Trump told the Bison that he could've served them a meal prepared by chefs, but "I know you people." Several players laughed, according to the pool report. YOUR DAILY DOSE: Top sports headlines, delivered daily Trump said in January that he personally paid for Clemson's White House feast because its visit came in the middle of a partial government shutdown, with press secretary Sarah Sanders explaining in a statement that "much of the residence staff at the White House is furloughed." About 150 members of North Dakota State's football program, including players and coaches, were expected to attend Monday's event, in addition to Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Hoeven (R-ND). Trump has now hosted six football teams at the White House since taking office in 2016, in addition to the MLB's Houston Astros and NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins. Other championship teams, however, have either declined to visit the White House or not received an invitation from the president. Trump has yet to honor a championship basketball team at the White House. Contributing: John Fritze, USA TODAY Contact Tom Schad at [email protected] or on Twitter @Tom_Schad.<doc-sep>WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump is again feting college football champions with burgers and fries. Trump celebrated the FCS-champion North Dakota State University football team at the White House on Monday with a lunch that included Big Macs, french fries and Chick-fil-A sandwiches. President Trump hosts an event at the White House to honor the FCS national champions, the North Dakota State Bison, where he is again serving a selection of fast food items https://t.co/AfEIFrfeM5 pic.twitter.com/2tZmkC6QdJ — ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) March 4, 2019 Trump served a similar spread that included hundreds of hamburgers to the FBS-champion Clemson Tigers in January, citing the government shutdown that was underway. Trump said he could have offered the players chef-prepared food, but, "I know you people.'' The Bison, who have the most titles in the NCAA Division 1 Football Championship Subdivision, ended the season on Jan. 5 with a 38-24 win over Eastern Washington University. Quarterback Easton Stick threw five touchdown passes, including two to Darrius Shepherd, who was named Most Outstanding Player. It was the Bison's seventh national title in eight years. "When you play with passion and love ... and relentlessly reach for excellence, nothing is impossible,'' Trump said.<doc-sep>
President Donald Trump welcomes 2018 NCAA FCS college football champions, the North Dakota State Bison, to the White House on Monday. (AP Photo) Another national championship college football team visited the White House. You’ll never guess what was on the menu for the players to eat. North Dakota State, on the heels of its seventh FCS title in the past eight seasons, was greeted by a spread of fast food on Monday in Washington, D.C. The members of the Bison football team had french fries, Chick-fil-A sandwiches and Big Macs to choose from, according to a White House pool report. Easton Stick presented the #45 jersey to President Trump in the State Dining Room followed by a quick lunch. Next stop, the Oval Office! #NDSUinDC pic.twitter.com/qdFVODhEej — NDSU Football (@NDSUfootball) March 4, 2019 Back in January, Clemson, fresh off of its win over Alabama in the College Football Playoff title game, also had fast food to choose from, but that was during the government shutdown. Trump said he paid for the food himself. North Dakota State, a dominant program in the NCAA’s second highest level of play, made its visit with the government reopened. President Donald Trump noted Monday that he could have offered North Dakota State chef-prepared food, but he went with the fast food instead. “I know you people,” the president remarked, drawing laughs from the NDSU players, per a pool report. Trump, after shaking hands with some players, cracked that he was briefed on the proper pronunciation of the North Dakota State “Bison.” “Make sure you say it with a ‘Z,’” the president said. The president had praise for quarterback Easton Stick, comparing him to Tom Brady. “Somebody better draft him, he’s going to be a rich guy,” Trump said of Stick. Stick, who joined his former teammates after showing his skills at the NFL combine in Indianapolis, presented the president a North Dakota State No. 45 jersey. Story continues President Donald Trump received a No. 45 North Dakota State jersey. (AP Photo) More from Yahoo Sports:
LONDON -- British police say a health care worker has been arrested on suspicion of murdering eight babies and trying to kill another six at a hospital neonatal unit in northwest England. Detectives have been investigating baby deaths at the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester for more than a year. Cheshire Constabulary said officers arrested a female "health care professional" Tuesday on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. The force did not identify the woman or give details of her job. Detectives began investigating the deaths of babies at the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester more than a year ago, after the hospital reported a higher than expected mortality rate, which it could not explain, on the unit that cares for premature babies and infants needing special care. The hospital asked police to "rule out unnatural causes of death." The investigation initially focused on the deaths of eight babies. Police said Tuesday that the force is now investigating the deaths of 17 babies and 15 "non-fatal collapses" at the unit between March 2015 and July 2016. Cheshire Constabulary said officers arrested a female "health care professional" Tuesday morning on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. The force did not identify the woman or give details of her job. Detective Inspector Paul Hughes said the arrest was a "significant step forward" in a "highly complex and very sensitive investigation." After the spike in deaths the hospital stopped delivering babies before 32 weeks of pregnancy, transferring the expectant mothers to other hospitals. Before police were called in, a review by the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health found staffing gaps at the hospital for high-dependency and some intensive care patients but no definitive explanation for the baby deaths. Hospital medical director Ian Harvey said "asking the police to look into this was not something we did lightly, but we need to do everything we can to understand what has happened here and get the answers we and the families so desperately want."<doc-sep>Woman arrested on suspicion of murdering 8 babies named as 28-year-old nurse The woman suspected of killing eight babies at a hospital in the north of England has been named by local media as 28-year-old Lucy Letby. Ms Letby has worked as a nurse at the neonatal unit at Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester since 2011. Advertisement She was arrested as part of an investigation into the deaths of 17 infants and the non-fatal collapse of 15 more at the hospital. Cheshire police have not confirmed the suspect's identity but say that she remains in custody. Police were seen at her home near the hospital and at her parents' home. They are believed to be searching her car as well as the house. A source within the British National Health Service (NHS) told The Telegraph that Ms Letby had been moved into an administrative role at the hospital in late 2016. "They moved her into admin, they didn't move her to another nursing position," the source said. "If they did think she was suspicious why didn't they suspend her?" Advertisement Her arrest came after an investigation was carried out at the neo-natal unit at Countess of Chester Hospital in Cheshire. Police began inquiries after a high number of deaths at the hospital between June 2015 and June 2016. The search has expanded and they are now looking into the deaths of 17 babies in total. "The investigation into the neonatal unit at The Countess of Chester Hospital is continuing," said Detective Inspector Paul Hughes, who is leading the inquiries. He said that police had spoken to a large number of people, including a number of medical specialists. Advertisement "Since it was first launched in May 2017, a dedicated team of detectives have been working tirelessly on this case. "This is a highly complex and very sensitive investigation and, as you can appreciate, we need to ensure we do everything we possibly can to try to establish in detail what has led to these baby deaths and collapses. "This is an extremely difficult time for all the families and it is important to remember that, at the heart of this, there are a number of bereaved families seeking answers as to what happened to their children." Advertisement<doc-sep>London: A British female healthcare worker has been arrested on suspicion of murdering eight babies and trying to murder six others after an investigation into deaths at a neonatal unit in northern England, UK police said on Tuesday. The arrest came after an inquiry into the deaths of 17 babies and 15 "non-fatal collapses" between March 2015 and July 2016 at The Countess of Chester Hospital's neonatal unit. Seventeen babies died in just over a year at The Countess of Chester Hospital's neonatal unit. Credit:Michelle Mossop "This is a highly complex and very sensitive investigation and, as you can appreciate, we need to ensure we do everything we possibly can to try to establish in detail what has led to these baby deaths and collapses," said Detective Inspector Paul Hughes in a statement. Police, who launched their investigation in May last year, would not give further details about the arrested woman, who was simply described as a healthcare professional. Hughes said the investigation was still "very much active".<doc-sep>Police investigating the suspicious deaths of eight babies at a Cheshire neonatal unit have searched the home of the parents of a nurse who works at the facility. Officers have searched the home of Lucy Letby and that of her parents in connection with the investigation. A woman has been arrested on suspicion of murdering eight babies and attempting to murder six others at the Countess of Chester Hospital during 2015 and 2016. A blue tent was was erected outside her £180,000 home in Chester yesterday morning. Police are searching the home of nurse Lucy Letby as part of the investigation into the deaths of 17 babies at a Cheshire neonatal unit Police are searching a property in Chester after arresting a healthcare worker on suspicion of murdering eight babies at a city hospital Police were seen outside the property which neighbours said was home to a woman Police today confirmed they had arrested a woman who they described only as 'a healthcare professional' yesterday morning. They have not said whether the woman is a nurse, doctor or worked in another role. She is being questioned of suspicion of having murdered eight of the children and attempting to murder six others. According to The Sun, Cheshire Police confirmed the arrest was made on the same street where the blue forensics tent has been erected. The suspect is being questioned of suspicion of having murdered eight of the children and attempting to murder six others. Police spent the day searching Ms Letby's £180,000 home, which is about a mile from the Countess of Chester Hospital. An NHS source told the Times, Ms Letby was transferred from clinical duties in late 2016. The source said: 'They moved her into admin, they didn't move her to another nursing position. If they did think she was suspicious why didn't they suspend her'. Ms Letby qualified as a nurse from the University of Chester in 2011 In a profile piece for a local newspaper Ms Letby said: 'My role involves caring for a wide range of babies requiring various levels of support' Detective Inspector Paul Hughes, who is in charge of the investigation, described the arrest as a 'significant step forward'. He revealed the scope of the probe had been widened since police took up the case and they are now examining the care of 32 babies, 17 of whom had died. DI Hughes said: 'When the investigation was first launched it was focusing on the deaths of 15 babies that occurred between the period of June 2015 and June 2016. 'In addition the investigation was also conducting a review of six non-fatal collapses during the same period. 'Since the start of our enquiries and, as the information gathering process has continued, the scope of the investigation has now widened. 'We are now currently investigating the deaths of 17 babies and 15 non-fatal collapses between the period of March 2015 and July 2016.' Police have also visited the home of Ms Letby's parents in Hereford, pictured A police officer was also seen outside the hospital at the centre of the probe today He described the case as 'highly complex and very sensitive', adding: 'We recognise that this investigation has a huge impact on all of the families, staff, and patients at the hospital as well as members of the public. 'Parents of all the babies are continuing to be kept fully updated and are being supported throughout the process by specially trained officers. 'This is an extremely difficult time for all the families and it is important to remember that, at the heart of this, there are a number of bereaved families seeking answers as to what happened to their children.' Five years ago, Miss Letby was chosen as the face of a campaign to raise £3 million for the unit, which cared for premature or poorly babies. At the time, she said: ‘I enjoy seeing them progress and supporting their families.’ Shocked neighbours of Miss Letby’s parents in Hereford described her as ‘very career-driven’, and said she had been dedicated about getting a job in the NHS. Solicitors representing some of the bereaved parents said they were ‘hopeful the investigation can provide answers’. At 6am yesterday, police arrived at Miss Letby’s modern £180,000 three-bedroom semi-detached house in Chester, about a mile from the hospital. A car with an NHS parking permit in the windscreen was moved from the driveway as a police tent was erected, and officers were seen removing items from the property. One neighbour said: ‘I was woken by a police car arriving. This is a very quiet road and you don’t expect it to happen right on your street.’ Interviewed in 2013, Miss Letby said she had worked at the neonatal unit since graduating as a children’s nurse from the University of Chester two years previously. Pictured holding a tiny sleepsuit in support of a local newspaper’s fundraising appeal, she added: ‘My role involves caring for a wide range of babies requiring various levels of support. ‘Some are here for a few days, others for many months and I enjoy seeing them progress and supporting their families. I am currently undergoing extra training in order to develop and enhance my knowledge and skills within the intensive care area.’ In 2011, her parents, John and Susan, posted a message in their local newspaper along with a picture of their daughter proudly wearing her mortar board hat to congratulate her on graduating with honours. Officers were yesterday speaking to Mr Letby, 73, and his 58-year-old wife at their home. One neighbour said their only child was ‘a very career-driven person’, describing her as ‘so dedicated to her job’. ‘Her parents have been my neighbours for at least 25 years, so I watched Lucy grow up,’ she said. ‘Lucy lives away but visits them frequently as any good daughter would. They adored her ... they’d just got back from a week-long holiday in Torquay.’ She added: ‘I just truly can’t believe it. She was a delight. Her parents must be going through hell.’<doc-sep>
Police in England have arrested a healthcare worker on suspicion of murdering eight babies at a hospital. The worker is also suspected of attempting to kill another six at the Countess of Chester hospital in Cheshire, in the north-west of the country. In May 2017, police started investigating the suspicious deaths of 15 babies and six non-fatal collapses, although this probe has now widened to cover the deaths of 17 babies and 15 non-fatal collapses between March 2015 and July 2016. Detective Inspector Paul Hughes from Cheshire Police said: "Whilst this is a significant step forward in our inquiries, it is important to remember that the investigation is very much active and ongoing at this stage." "There are no set timescales for this coming to a conclusion but we remain committed to carrying out a thorough investigation as soon as possible," Sky News reported. Police have not said if the arrested woman is a nurse, doctor or other health professional. "We recognize that this investigation has a huge impact on all of the families, staff, and patients at the hospital as well as members of the public." "This is an extremely difficult time for all the families and it is important to remember that, at the heart of this, there are a number of bereaved families seeking answers as to what happened to their children," Hughes added. Ian Harvey, medical director of the Countess of Chester hospital, said the hospital was supporting the police. "Asking the police to look into this was not something we did lightly, but we need to do everything we can to understand what has happened here and get the answers we and the families so desperately want," he said. "The Countess is now equivalent to a level one special care baby unit and we are confident the unit is safe to continue in its current form." A report in May by the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health said that there was in inadequate staffing at the hospital's neonatal unit and said there were gaps in medical and nursing rotas, poor decision-making and insufficient senior cover, The Guardian reported. The hospital had carried out several independent expert medical reviews into the deaths before alerting the police. "Asking the police to look into this was not something we did lightly, but we need to do everything we can to understand what has happened here and get the answers we and the families so desperately want," Harvey said in a statement. Police say that the parents of the babies were being supported by specially trained officers during the investigation.
By the end of this year we should expect UK law to mandate net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Thursday’s report by the Committee on Climate Change (CCC), which advises the government, sets out not only why this new target is needed, but how it can be achieved. Last year the UN warned of greatly increased dangers if countries do not stick to the lower end of the 1.5-2C of global warming mandated by the Paris agreement. Experts highlighted sea level rises and risks to insect and coral species among problems likely to be seriously exacerbated by an additional 0.5C rise. This is the reason for governments to set new, tougher targets in advance of upcoming UN climate talks, at which they will be held to account and forced to decide what happens next. At the same time, dramatic falls in the cost of renewable energy and battery storage mean that cutting emissions has become cheaper. The CCC believes it is possible to eliminate the UK’s carbon footprint altogether without investing more than already planned: that is, between 1% and 2% of GDP. So there is some good news, along with the bad. Costs are concentrated in the power and construction sectors. New energy sources such as hydrogen need infrastructure, while wind and solar must be scaled up. New technologies such as carbon capture and storage require trials. Buildings must become energy-efficient as gas boilers, 1m of which are installed each year, are phased out. Huge numbers of trees need planting, with one-fifth of all agricultural land turned over to forests, peatland or energy crops. People should be encouraged to make different choices, eating less beef, lamb and dairy. The report suggests a target of 2030 for ending the sale of petrol and diesel cars, but then wrongly settles for 2035. Currently, transport emissions are still going up. As well as a practical and moral case for action, the report makes a strategic one. The UK was a pioneer in climate legislation. Where one country leads, others will follow and such leadership brings power as well as prestige. Without a new target the UK will soon be overtaken (France has a 2050 target for net-zero, although not yet a law; Sweden and Norway have earlier deadlines but less strict rules). Since climate chaos will bring political chaos, limiting it is in the national interest. A “green new deal” has become popular currency on the progressive side of politics in the UK, US and Spain. This idea usefully links technological and environmental change with the prospect of a renewed social contract and the questions of justice often emphasised by environmentalists. The CCC’s report must have been all but complete before most people had heard of Extinction Rebellion, or seen pictures of the Swedish activist Greta Thunberg with environment secretary Michael Gove. But the extraordinary success of protesters over recent weeks, both in raising awareness and materially altering the climate debate, makes it more likely that targets will be further strengthened, as they have been before and should be again. The 2050 target is not ambitious enough. A government that purports to accept climate science but promotes aviation, road-building and fracking, while making onshore wind all but impossible and cutting back on subsidies for green energy, deserves to be exposed. To this end, as well as that of helping to shift public opinion, it is crucial that activists, including those opposing airport expansion, as well as politicians, continue their work. About one thing Extinction Rebellion was absolutely right: people must be told the truth. The brave new world of 2050 need not be a dystopia, even if some damaging effects of warming are now inevitable and the prospect of a second Trump term gives cause for alarm. But if we are to avoid the most dangerous consequences of a warmer world, we must find ways not only to limit and mitigate the risks of physical changes; but also to make political ones. The kind of long-termism that climate change requires is not a good fit with modern electoral cycles – or 24-hour news. Finding ways to counter this, and build the future into our politics, is a challenge not just for politicians, environmentalists and civil society groups, but for human civilisation as a whole.<doc-sep>The Committee on Climate Change has urged the government to adopt a target of net zero emissions by 2050. These seven charts show how that might unfold, and what it means for the UK economy Universal Images Group North America LLC/Alamy Stock Photo Here’s a selection of some of the most pertinent numbers that the Committee on Climate Change has compiled for the government in its report, ranging from expectations about the UK’s future emissions, sectors which it expects will emit the most greenhouse gases and some surprising numbers about the transition to electric cars. The UK has already cut greenhouse gas emissions 40 per cent on 1990 levels, looking solely at “territorial” emissions, rather than ones based on consumption of imported goods and services. Before 2050, there are interim targets, including a 57 per cent cut by 2030, which the government admits it’s currently set to miss. Advertisement Read more: What you life could be like in a low carbon future Previous cuts have been very uneven across the economy. The heavy lifting has been done by the power sector booting out coal in favour of more renewable sources and gas power stations. According to the most recent numbers, transport has replaced the power sector as the biggest emitter. This chart shows the UK’s impact on global temperature, relative to now, from adopting a net zero target compared to today’s 80 per cent plan. As the line goes up, we are adding to global warming. As it goes down, the UK contributes to global cooling. Today, farming and aviation are relatively small emitters compared to other sectors. But if the net zero target is achieved, their hard-to-treat nature means they will be the big two remaining rumps of emissions in 2050. That is why negative emissions measures are needed, such as tree-planting. In the past, most of the emissions cuts have happened behind the scenes, through technological changes. Kettles still boil the same, regardless of whether powered by electrons generated from a coal power station or wind farm. This chart shows how more than 60 per cent of future measures require some sort of consumer behaviour changes too. The government plans to ban new petrol and diesel car sales by 2040, but a 2030 goal would save more money, says the Committee on Climate Change. Switching to electric cars will cost society around £1bn a year in the early 2020s, in terms of costs of buying the cars, investing in energy networks and charging points. Later, they are expected to save the UK billions of pounds annually. One of the Committee on Climate Change’s key findings is the cost of a net zero target will be the same as the existing one of an 80 per cent cut. That’s because the cost of technologies has fallen rapidly since the current target was enshrined in law 11 years ago. This chart shows just how much faster the cost of batteries has fallen than the group originally expected.<doc-sep>Pay based on use Get Started Purchase a Team or Enterprise subscription for per week You will be billed per month after the trial ends<doc-sep>Six months on from the UN’s landmark 1.5°C report, which urged immediate global action to prevent global warming from rising beyond this dangerous level, the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) has advised the UK government to go zero-carbon by 2050. The committee’s report asserts that the target constitutes the country’s “highest possible ambition” and that it is not credible to aim for an earlier date. We disagree. While the report does challenge the government to step up its climate ambition, our view is that creative carbon accounting and an unwillingness to prioritise the planet’s health over economic growth leaves the committee’s target lacking the urgency truly required to combat the climate emergency recently declared by even the government itself. Creative accounting Before assessing whether 2050 is an appropriate date, its important to unpack exactly how the committee defines net zero. Based on international guidance from the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the UK’s target only includes territorial carbon emissions – those that are emitted directly within the country’s borders. The committee’s report highlights that the country’s territorial carbon footprint has fallen by 30% from 2008. But as Swedish campaigner Greta Thunberg highlighted to parliament, using this figure as a mark of the country’s climate leadership amounts to nothing more than creative carbon accounting, glossing over the UK’s role in emissions that occur outside its borders. The UK economy is primarily driven by its service sector, and the value of its imports is roughly triple that of its exports. The production and transport of these imported goods are a direct consequence of the UK’s consumption habits, but these emissions aren’t counted by the committee because they occur beyond its shores. Including these emissions and excluding emissions from exports to other countries, the UK’s carbon footprint is 70% higher than the figure used by the committee. Kate Scott/University of Manchester , Author provided Crucially, this alternative definition shows that emissions are still closely tied to the UK’s GDP, only notably reducing during the most recent financial crisis and remaining steady in recent years. The CCC does say that it will monitor the UK’s consumption-based emissions, and highlights that the country must avoid “offshoring” its territorial emissions by importing more goods. But it stops well short of addressing the fundamental elephant in the room – that to seriously tackle emissions, the UK must move away from an economy that prioritises short-term growth over radical emission reductions. On the surface, the most glaring omission in past carbon budgets at least appears to have been addressed. Emissions from international aviation and shipping have long been excluded from national targets in favour of international reduction efforts such as the UN’s CORSIA or the EU’s Emissions Trading Scheme. The committee now argues that “emissions from international aviation and shipping cannot be ignored”. But it only recommends their inclusion in the UK’s carbon budget from 2033. This is 14 years too late. UK aviation emissions must not grow in the next decade if it is to prevent the worst effects of global warming. The time to act on aviation and shipping is now. Highest possible ambition? Even placing accounting issues aside, the 2050 target is unambitious and gives a false impression that there is time to play with. Lord Deben, chair of the committee, is almost certainly right that Extinction Rebellion’s demand that the country reaches net zero by 2025 is physically impossible. Shedding the country’s attachment to growth does not on its own lead to a neutral carbon ledger. The massive amounts of investment, innovation and infrastructure required to get there would not take full effect within six years. But to say that anything earlier than a 2050 target isn’t credible is a grave and dangerous mistake. At current levels of emissions, the world will reach 1.5°C of warming in 12 years. Each year that the UK delays radical action, the necessary yearly emissions cuts to hit net zero become greater, making it ever harder to avoid catastrophic warming. Even with immediate action, the world is still pinning hopes on carbon capture and storage technologies that may never work at scale. Working towards an earlier target with steeper emissions cuts would require initial uncomfortable changes, but would massively lower our reliance on these incredibly uncertain technologies. The report’s claim that the 2050 target represents the UK’s “highest possible ambition” speaks more to the country’s economic priorities than to reality. Ten years ago, the committee wrote that an 80% reduction in emissions by 2050 (against 1990 levels) was at the limit of feasibility. Now, the committee has changed its mind, stating that net zero can be achieved by the same date, for the same price: 1-2% of GDP. This small percentage is seen as the maximum acceptable cost of mitigating climate change, even in the face of the trillion-pound losses that are forecast if we do not take sufficient action. Is this really all the fate of present and future generations at risk of climate change is worth? The report does hold some positives. It is unequivocal that current policy is insufficient to achieve even the UK’s existing targets and urges a ramping up in actionable efforts. It criticises plans to phase out fossil fuel powered cars by 2040 as too late and too vague, and calls for the government to confront failures to plant enough carbon-absorbing trees and decarbonise heating systems. But in focusing on what is “feasible” rather than necessary, the committee’s trajectories simply do not reflect the radical carbon reductions the UK can make, and will only end the UK’s contribution to global warming on paper. The year 2025 may be an unrealistic target, but missing that by a few years is much less dangerous than hitting a 2050 target comfortably. We need to take every leap we can and fast, even if it is into the dark. As Greta Thunberg says, if your house is on fire, you don’t tell people that the fire brigade will be along in a few hours – you act. Click here to subscribe to our climate action newsletter. Climate change is inevitable. Our response to it isn’t.<doc-sep>
The UK’s Committee on Climate Change has released its anticipated report, and it’s recommending a new goal — net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. “Now is the right moment” to set such a goal for the UK, the committee says, noting that decreasing costs of zero-carbon technologies mean the goal is “now possible within the economic cost that Parliament originally accepted when it passed the Climate Change Act in 2008.” The net zero goal would require a 100% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Any remaining sources of emissions would be offset by removing CO 2 from the atmosphere. The committee says growing new trees, for instance, could be a way to offset those emissions. As expected, the committee also recommends to cease the sale of all non-zero emission vehicles by 2035, moving up that deadline from 2040. Diesel and petrol cars still on the road after sales of the vehicles are banned would only earn regulatory approval until 2050 “at the latest.” The CCC report also finds that: The foundations are in place throughout the UK and the policies required to deliver key pillars of a net-zero economy are already active or in development. Policies will have to ramp up significantly for a ‘net-zero’ emissions target to be credible, given that most sectors of the economy will need to cut their emissions to zero by 2050. The overall costs of the transition to a net-zero economy are manageable but they must be fairly distributed. The committee’s 300+ page complete technical report offers more information on the specific plans and timelines recommended. Committee chairman Lord Deben said, “We can all see that the climate is changing and it needs a serious response. The great news is that it is not only possible for the UK to play its full part – we explain how in our new report – but it can be done within the cost envelope that Parliament has already accepted. The Government should accept the recommendations and set about making the changes needed to deliver them without delay.” The committee recommends Scotland reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, due to its “greater potential to remove pollution from its economy than the UK overall.” A tweet from today shows the Scottish government already looks to get on board: Wales should adopt a 95% reduction in emissions by 2050, the committee recommends, as it has “slightly lower opportunities than the UK as a whole.” Climate Emergency The announcement coincides with UK parliament’s declaration of an “environment and climate emergency.” Climate protest group Extinction Rebellion celebrated the announcement on Wednesday: BREAKING – UK MPs pass a motion to declare an environment & climate emergency. This has seen them start to #TellTheTruth about the climate & ecological crisis. They must now halt biodiversity loss, go net #ZeroCarbon2025 & create a #CitizensAssembly.pic.twitter.com/qXR7vEJwpG — Extinction Rebellion 🐝⌛️🦋 (@ExtinctionR) May 1, 2019 Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said (via The Independent): “We pledge to work as closely as possible with countries that are serious about ending the climate catastrophe and make clear to US president Donald Trump that he cannot ignore international agreements and action on the climate crisis.” Electrek’s Take Putting two and two together here — considering the UK just declared a climate emergency, we’d think it’s likely the net zero 2050 goal will be officially adopted. While the recommendation is being touted as the most ambitious in the world to date for an economy of the UK’s size, some are wondering if it’s ambitious enough. For example, Extinction Rebellion is pushing for net zero carbon by 2025. Nevertheless, this would be a firm target for net zero emissions, and as we’ve seen with goals in other regions — including US states and cities — other countries may follow suit. A “competition” to set more ambitious targets for reducing emissions worldwide would benefit all. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More. Subscribe to Electrek on YouTube for exclusive videos and subscribe to the podcast.
WASHINGTON — Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh was confirmed to the Supreme Court on Saturday by one of the slimmest margins in American history, locking in a solid conservative majority on the court and capping a rancorous battle that began as a debate over judicial ideology and concluded with a national reckoning over sexual misconduct. As a chorus of women in the Senate’s public galleries repeatedly interrupted the proceedings with cries of “Shame!,” somber-looking senators voted 50 to 48 — almost entirely along party lines — to elevate Judge Kavanaugh. He was promptly sworn in by both Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and the retired Justice Anthony M. Kennedy — the court’s longtime swing vote, whom he will replace — in a private ceremony. For President Trump and Senate Republican leaders, who have made stocking the federal judiciary with conservative judges a signature issue, the Senate vote was a validation of a hard-edge strategy to stick with Judge Kavanaugh, even after his nomination was gravely imperiled by allegations by Christine Blasey Ford that he had tried to rape her when they were teenagers. The president was exultant. “He’s going to go down as a totally brilliant Supreme Court justice for many years,” he told reporters, whom he had invited to join him in watching the vote on television aboard Air Force One.<doc-sep>This image was removed due to legal reasons. Joe Manchin tried to play it safe this weekend, breaking party lines and voting to confirm Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court in the hopes of courting the Trump-loving majority of his home state, but he may have just shot himself in the foot. Turns out, Manchin’s Democratic base might have had enough — and the Republicans don’t like him either. Advertisement Manchin went to an IHOP in Charleston, WV today to try to touch base with his constituents about his vote. Manchin’s re-election depends on courting enough of West Virginia’s Trump voters, but also energizing the strong Democratic minority to turn out and vote for him, which doesn’t look so good, according to the Associated Press. Here’s what some of the Democrats think, per AP: Walker, a first-time Democratic candidate for the state legislature, said she may not vote at all in the state’s high-stakes Senate election. Julia Hamilton, a 30-year-old educator who serves on the executive committee of the Monongalia County Democratic Party, vowed to sit out the Senate race as well. “At some point you have to draw a line,” Hamilton said. “I have heard from many, many people — especially women. They won’t be voting for Manchin either.” Across the parking lot, 63-year-old John Vdovjac said he was deeply disappointed by Manchin’s vote. Still, the Democrat said he’d probably vote for Manchin this fall. “I recognize the position he’s in because the state’s heavily Republican now,” said Vdovjac, a retired educator from Wheeling, as he helped grill hotdogs and hamburgers. “But he’s lost my loyalty.” Perhaps even more damaging is the fact that the Trump-supporting voters Manchin was trying to win over know his vote was a cowardly stunt to try to save his seat. Per AP: One West Virginia Trump supporter, 74-year-old Linda Ferguson, explained the politics bluntly as she watched the parade at Saturday’s Mountain State Forest Festival in Elkins. “If he didn’t vote for Kavanaugh he could have kissed his seat goodbye,” Ferguson said. But from some of these quotes, it looks like Manchin might as well kiss his seat goodbye anyway (emphasis mine): That wasn’t good enough for Tammy Means, a 57-year-old florist from Charleston, who was among thousands tailgating outside West Virginia University’s football stadium in Morgantown on Saturday. Means, a registered Democrat who voted for Trump, said she also voted for Manchin in the past. “I’m not going to anymore. Nope,” she said with a laugh as she sipped a Smirnoff Ice. She’s glad Manchin voted for Kavanaugh, but said, “He’s just doing it so he can get elected.” Advertisement Part of the deciding factor seems to be that Manchin waited to announce his vote until it effectively didn’t mean anything, trying to play both sides of the field. Manchin didn’t come out for Kavanaugh until after Susan Collins’ self-serving marathon of a speech made his vote irrelevant. Fuck Susan Collins In a single, horrific speech in front of the Senate this afternoon, Maine Sen. Susan Collins, who… Read more Advertisement Manchin, for his part, tried to lean hard into the “innocent until proven guilty” angle. Per Vice News: “I make my votes based on the facts I have,” he said, speaking outside of a scheduled event at a senior center in Huntington, West Virginia. “I’ve made some tough votes over my career. Once I have the facts and I can come home and explain, I’m voting for it. So my vote was the same no matter what.” He explained that while some saw Kavanaugh’s hearing as a job interview, he saw it more like a trial and that he made his decision “based on the evidence the FBI put before me.” “I asked for that investigation and I made my decision based on that and also checking with people who’ve worked with him. Who know him professionally and, both, socially, “he said.” Advertisement Vice News also put together a focus group of West Virginia voters, who don’t seem particularly impressed with Manchin’s decision. Check out a clip here: Advertisement And of course, voting for Kavanaugh isn’t going to make the GOP leave him alone. Earlier today on Face the Nation, Mitch McConnell said that the Republicans still planned to fully back Manchin’s opponent, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, who Manchin leads in the polls. Per CNN: “We appreciate his vote for Judge Kavanaugh,” the Kentucky senator said Sunday on CBS’s “Face The Nation.” “I think it was the right thing to do. But we’re trying to win seats.” While McConnell said he appreciates Manchin’s support, he also pointed out that he is “still a Democrat.” Advertisement In other words, Mitch says thanks for the vote, sucker.<doc-sep>Ensuring Brett Kavanaugh's confirmation to the Supreme Court, Sen. Susan Collins’s lengthy, partisan speech on Friday defending her decision to provide the decisive vote to give him that lifetime appointment had a conclusion that, to anyone who knows anything about American politics, was more of a punchline. “My fervent hope,” she asserted, “is that Brett Kavanaugh will work to lessen the divisions in the Supreme Court.” As the political scientist Seth Masket observed, this is tantamount to fervently hoping that dumping a barrel of kerosene on a fire will extinguish it. Not only will the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh make party polarization greater, it is likely to hasten the end of the Supreme Court as we know it. The idea that Kavanaugh will work as a consensus-restoring wound healer is absolutely ludicrous to anyone who knows anything about his history. He’s a long-time Republican operative who spent millions of dollars investigating discredited conspiracy theories while serving under Ken Starr’s investigation of the Clintons. His record on the D.C. Circuit, contrary to Collins’s disingenuous attempts to portray him as a moderate, is extremely and consistently conservative. And at his final appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, he delivered an angry partisan rant (complete with imaginary conspiracy theories about the Clintons) while treating the Democratic senators on the committee with open contempt. Placing an open Republican partisan who was also credibly accused of attempted sexual assault on the Supreme Court may well be the beginning of the end of a political dynamic that has been very favorable to the Republican Party. On one hand, the Supreme Court has become increasingly conservative, issuing decisions that have eviscerated the Voting Rights Act, largely eliminated the ability of state and federal governments to regulate campaigns’ finance, limited civil rights and consumer protections and attacked the rights of workers — among many other policy results desired by Republicans. Despite this, Democratic voters historically place less of a priority on the Supreme Court and have a much more favorable view of the court than Republicans. Republicans have been able to have their cake and eat it too, and it’s a major reason Donald Trump is sitting in the White House. It seems likely that this will not continue. Democrats are now much more likely to mobilize against an even more conservative court. Four members of this court have been nominated by Republican presidents who lost the popular vote; Kavanaugh will become the ultimate symbol of a Republican takeover of a court that fewer and fewer Democrats will recognize as legitimate. But how might Democratic leaders respond? The most natural place to start is with the possibility of impeachment. A focus on removing Kavanaugh is probably unwise, though not because the idea is bad on the merits. Even leaving aside Dr. Christine Blasey Ford’s credible accusations of attempted sexual assault — which we shouldn’t — his repeated lying under oath during his confirmation hearings would in itself be reason to remove him from the federal bench. And, any congressional investigation run by a Democratic House committee into his shady personal and financial history might well reveal more concerns. The problem is that while impeachment would require only a simple House majority, it would take a two-thirds supermajority of the Senate to convict and remove him from office. The idea that a dozen or more Republican senators would vote to remove Kavanaugh when only one voted against him is fantastical. The next Democratic House or Senate could conduct the investigation into him that Republicans refused to do, but they are not going to be able to remove him regardless of what they find. A more likely scenario — especially if a Trumpified Supreme Court not only effectively overrules Roe v. Wade but then keeps striking down legislation passed by the next unified Democratic government — is expanding the size of the Supreme Court. The constitution does not fix the size of any federal appellate court, and the number of justices can be changed with simple majorities of both houses of Congress. Doing so isn’t hypothetical: After the Civil War, congressional Republicans manipulated the size of the court to ensure that it wouldn’t interfere with Reconstruction. It is true that the most recent serious attempt to expand the size of the Supreme Court — by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1937 — failed. But this failure was contingent, not inevitable. As Jeff Shesol observed in his comprehensive history of the conflict, had then-Senate Majority Leader Joseph Robinson not suddenly died, the Judicial Procedures Reform Bill of 1937 might have passed. And Roosevelt’s proposal became unnecessary after that because the court’s then-swing justice, Owen Roberts, suddenly began to provide the fifth votes to uphold progressive legislation rather than striking it down. Had the Supreme Court continued to attack the New Deal after Roosevelt’s 1936 landslide victory, it is extremely unlikely that the Supreme Court would have only nine members today. It’s also critical to remember that Supreme Court decisions are not self-enforcing; they require the active compliance of various public officials. If elected officials simply refuse to implement the court’s decisions, there’s little the court can do about it. And this is, like expanding the size of the court, not merely hypothetical. For reasons both good (like Abraham Lincoln ignoring the Supreme Court’s holdings on the citizenship of African Americans, or the ability of Congress to enforce slavery in the territories in its infamous Dred Scott decision) and bad (like southern states refusing to implement the court’s order that segregation was unconstitutional for nearly a decade), decisions made by prior courts have been rendered dead-letters by noncompliance. An aggressively partisan Republican Supreme Court that undermines the ability of a Democratic Congress to implement the laws it passes with ad hoc constitutional arguments (while possibly undermining the basic rights of voters and already disadvantaged minorities) is going to find increasing resistance to its decisions. So, for now, the fate of the Supreme Court rests in the hands of Chief Justice John Roberts. If Roberts — as he did in refusing to vote to strike down the Affordable Care Act — remains the median (albeit not centrist or swing) vote and backs away from repeated conflicts with the next Democratic Congress and president, the nine-justice equilibrium might remain. But if he presides over a Republican super-legislature, or Trump is able to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg and/or Stephen Breyer with yet more hyper-conservatives, the question becomes how radically the federal courts will be transformed, not just if they have been. And Brett Kavanaugh’s legacy will stand as a symbol of the court’s partisan illegitimacy long after Trump has left the White House.<doc-sep>
President Trump on Monday ripped Democrats for talk of impeaching Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh over allegations he committed perjury during his hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. “I’ve been hearing that they’re now thinking of impeaching a brilliant jurist — a man that did nothing wrong, a man that was caught up in a hoax that was set up by the Democrats,” Trump told reporters on the South Lawn before departing for a police convention in Orlando. “And now they want to impeach him. I’ve heard this from many people. I think it’s an insult to the American public.” In an interview with Yahoo News on Sunday, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., left open the possibility of impeaching Kavanaugh if Democrats take back one of the houses of Congress in next month’s midterm elections. “The reality is, right now, Republicans control the House and the Senate, and there’s no way to do even an investigation unless we flip one of the houses. So I think even before you start focusing on questions about his truthfulness before a Senate committee, you’ve got to focus on the urgency of the work over the next 30 days, and that’s where my focus is,” Booker said. “I think that after the dust settles on the night of [Nov.] 6th, I think that’s where we start to evaluate.” The confirmation of Kavanaugh despite multiple sexual assault allegations enraged activists. Protesters, most of them women, flooded the U.S. Capitol on Saturday ahead of the Senate’s confirmation vote. Democratic lawmakers, like Booker, are hoping to channel that anger into votes. Trump, though, predicted a different outcome. President Trump talks to reporters as he departs the White House in Washington on Monday. (Photo: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters) “I think you’re going to see a lot of things happen on Nov. 6 that would not have happened before,” he said. “The American public has seen this charade, has seen this dishonesty by the Democrats.” Trump said the mere mention of impeaching a Supreme Court justice who “is a top scholar, a top student, a top intellect, and who did nothing wrong” should galvanize support for Republican candidates on the ballot. Story continues “I think a lot of Democrats are going to vote Republican,” the president said, adding: “I have many friends that are Democrats. The main base of the Democrats has shifted so far left that we’ll end up being Venezuela. This country would end up being Venezuela.” “I thought the way they behaved was absolutely atrocious,” Trump fumed. “I thought the way they conducted themselves, the way they dealt with a high-level, brilliant, going to be a great justice of the Supreme Court — the way they really tortured him and his family — I thought it was a disgrace. I thought — I thought it was one of the most disgraceful performances I’ve ever seen.” Last week, Trump angered both Democrats and Republicans by mocking Christine Blasey Ford, who in testimony accused Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her when they were teenagers. Previously, Trump had said he found Ford’s testimony “very compelling.” On Monday morning, he issued a blanket dismissal of the allegations against Kavanaugh brought by Ford and two other women. “It was all made up,” Trump said. “It was fabricated. And it is a disgrace.” Addressing the convention of International Association of Chiefs of Police in Orlando Monday afternoon, Trump again painted Kavanaugh as a victim. “It was very, very unfair what happened to him,” the president said. “It was a disgraceful situation brought about by people that are evil. And he toughed it out. We all toughed it out together.” ___ Read more from Yahoo News:
UFC champ Anthony "Showtime" Pettis brought Saturday night’s match in Nashville to an abrupt ending by throwing a “Superman Punch” that completely knocked out his opponent in the second round with just seconds remaining. Pettis’ fight against fellow welterweight and two-time title challenger Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson was the main event for UFC Fight Night 148 in Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Saturday. Odds for the match were highest in Thompson's favor. But Pettis delivered a deadly punch to his opponent's jaw in the second round that sent Thompson down to the canvas. CONOR MCGREGOR ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY SMASHING, STEALING FAN'S PHONE IN MIAMI The blow appeared to have had knocked out Thompson cold, but Pettis followed up with two additional punches to his face before referee Herb Dean got between the fighters and called the match to a halt. GET THE FOX NEWS APP Prior to Saturday's fight -- which was his first at 170 pounds -- Pettis' career in the sport was widely believed to be waning, having lost the last six of his previous 10 fights, according to stats from ESPN. He has previously fought in the lightweight and featherweight division, Forbes reported.<doc-sep>Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Welterweight ninjas Anthony Pettis and Stephen Thompson threw down last night (March 23, 2019) at UFC Fight Night 148 inside Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s been an entertaining few years from Pettis, but he’s wound up on the wrong side of some losses that have largely eliminated him from title contention at his home weight class of 155 pounds. Rather than start over at Lightweight, “Showtime” called for an entertaining match up at 170 pounds, looking to find out for himself whether the grass was greener at Welterweight. His debut would not be easy though, as “Wonderboy” was a certified contender. In truth, Thompson has not definitively lost in years — the man could very easily have won the title in his rematch with Tyron Woodley. Things didn’t quite work out that way though, leaving Thompson in need of a win to get him back in the mix. Pettis looked to pressure “Wonderboy” early, backing his foe up behind a high guard. Both men were looking to kick: Thompson flung up an early high kick early and stabbed at the mid-section with side kicks, whereas Pettis looked to slam round kicks to the body and leg depending on Thompson’s stance. In the first half of the round, Pettis seemed to land the harder kicks between the two, doing well to block his foe’s kicks. As a result, “Wonderboy” grew more active with his hands, darting in-and-out with fast combinations. Nothing incredibly dramatic landed, but Pettis still walked back to his corner with a bloody nose. Thompson took some hard kicks but won the first round. Both men doubled down on their strategies in the second. Thompson continued to show off his speed, shooting jabs into Pettis’ face and landing quick kicks as Pettis advanced. None of those strikes deterred Pettis though, who continued to stalk forward and throw the leg kick at every opportunity. Most notably, Pettis was chopping across Thompson’s waist, aiming at the back leg. In addition to the jab, Thompson’s lead leg grew more effective. The side kick landed to the chest more often, allowing Thompson to begin hooking off to the face as well. A good deal of leg kicks aside, but the fight seemed to be going well for Thompson, who was landing at a higher rate and doing a lot of damage to Pettis’ face. It ended in an instant (watch highlights here). As Thompson pushed forward behind his side kick, Pettis parried it a bit past him and got Thompson out of position. The Karateka was still reasonably far back from Pettis, so “Showtime” jumped in the air with something of a Superman Punch/jumping hook hybrid, catching Thompson full on the chin. Like last weekend’s Welterweight knockout, the defeated fighter was instantly unconscious but ate a few more shots on the way down. This is a fascinating knockout and great performance from Pettis. Perhaps the most interesting part of the finish was just how opportunistic it was: Pettis had not previously shown a strategy of passing the side kick by and countering with his hands. That’s always the risk of side kicks, but Pettis immediately capitalized on a very slight opening in the biggest way possible. It had nothing directly to do with his overall game plan of dedicated leg chopping, but I expect Duke Roufus had Pettis drilling for this scenario quite a bit anyway. Related Anthony Pettis Wants Welterweight Showdown With McGregor What does a massive Welterweight knockout mean for Anthony Pettis? Let’s be honest here, this win may make him a Top 5-ranked contender, but is Pettis going to fare well against an even bigger class of pressure wrestler like Kamaru Usman or Colby Covington? Probably not. Let’s avoid that by matching Pettis with a Welterweight contender unlikely to grind on him — someone like Santiago Ponzinibbio or Jorge Masvidal. Thompson looked pretty sharp last night. His kicks and jabs were ridiculously quick, and though his legs showed some bruising, he did not yet seem to be suffering any consequences from the low kicks. Prior to the right hand knockout, very few of Pettis’ punches were landing at all. It’s unfortunate that despite his mostly strong showing, this loss is likely the nail in Thompson’s coffin as a contender. The 36-year-old striker is very deep into his combat sports career, meaning he’s unlikely to grow dramatically from here. He’s no longer just a win or two away from the title, as a long win streak is mandatory to recover from losing three of four. Last night, Anthony Pettis rallied in the second round to end his opponent’s night early. Who should Pettis face next? For complete UFC Fight Night 148 results and play-by-play, click HERE!<doc-sep>
Image : ESPN+ The main event of Saturday night’s UFC Fight Night card lasted two rounds, and Anthony Pettis spent the bulk of that time getting picked apart by Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. It was a suitably thorough performance from one of the UFC’s most accomplished kickboxers, right up until the moment Pettis bounced off the cage and knocked Thompson out with a Superman punch. This is comfortably the best knockout of the year—move on over, Johnny Walker and Jorge Masvidal—and it’s the most dramatic fight-ending strike since Yair Rodriguez’s blind Hail Mary elbow in November 2018. Thompson’s superior range proved a uniquely difficult challenge for Pettis in his first welterweight fight in 11 years. Wonderboy comfortably kept his opponent on the end of an unpredictable serving of weird kicks, and mixed in some guard-splitting jabs and counter combinations. Pettis countered Thompson’s kicks with leg kicks, which might have helped him set up his fight-ending punch by robbing Thompson of his quickness. Pettis, who has basically never had a boring fight, is a welcome addition to the top of the UFC welterweight ranks, which are swollen with pressure wrestlers and old guys. He’s shown that he can bang at three weight classes; after this victory, he’s now only the third-ever UFC fighter to win at 145, 155, and 170 pounds. At every stop, Pettis’s run has been defined by a willingness to try something foolish with a low success rate. He might not necessarily be able to pull off a devastating cage kick against fighters like Kamaru Usman or Colby Covington, but he’s an endlessly creative fighter, and it’ll be fun to watch him try.
Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya is carried on a stretcher after getting injured during the one day international (ODI) Asia Cup cricket match between Pakistan and India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on September 19, 2018. Photo; AFP NEW DELHI: Three Indian cricketers including star all-rounder Hardik Pandya were Thursday ruled out of the Asia Cup with injuries, dealing a blow to the side´s chances in the 50-over tournament. Pandya, 24, was stretchered off the ground after suffering an acute lower back spasm during the game against archrival Pakistan in Dubai on Wednesday. "All your love and support is going to make me come back stronger!" Pandya tweeted Thursday. Pandya will be replaced by Deepak Chahar in the squad, the Indian cricket board said in a news release. India, who beat Pakistan by eight wickets to top Group A, take on Bangladesh in a Super Four tie on Friday. The Indians will play Pakistan again on Sunday. Left-arm spinner Axar Patel, who injured his left index finger while fielding against Pakistan, will be replaced by Ravindra Jadeja. "He (Patel) was sent for scans and the results showed that he had a tendon tear. He will be unavailable for the remainder of the series," the Board of Control for Cricket in India said. Siddhartha Kaul has been roped into the squad in place of right-arm pacer Shardul Thakur, who is nursing soreness in his hip and groin. Chahar, Jadeja and Kaul will join the team later Thursday. India are already without their charismatic skipper Virat Kohli who has been rested for the six-nation tournament.<doc-sep>Hardik Pandya was stretchered off the field during the group league encounter against Pakistan on Wednesday. (Source: File) Hardik Pandya was stretchered off the field during the group league encounter against Pakistan on Wednesday. (Source: File) Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup after suffering an acute back injury during the group league encounter against Pakistan on Wednesday. He will be replaced most likely by Deepak Chahar. Chahar will reportedly join the team on Thursday. Earlier, rumours of Pandya not taking part kept swirling after he was stretchered off the field in the 18th over of the Pakistan innings. Pandya was into his fifth over and just as he was about to complete his over, the India allrounder Pandya started showing signs of discomfort. He immediately felt his lower back and lay on the ground in considerable pain. Unable to get up, Pandya was stretchered off the field and taken for medical examination. He ended with figures of 4.5-0-24-0. Meanwhile, this is the third instance in the last three months where an Indian player has been unable to play due to aggravated imjuries. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and R Ashwin were the previous casualties. While Kumar missed the Test series in England, Ashwin had to sit out for the last Test.<doc-sep>Asia Cup 2018: Hardik Pandya ruled out of the tournament; replacement named He was stretchered off the field during the game against Pakistan. Team India has been dealt with a huge blow in the ongoing Asia Cup as their all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the tournament. He was grimacing in pain after falling while bowling in the game against Pakistan and had to be stretchered off the field. Later, it was revealed that he is struggling with the acute lower back injury and his condition is being assessed. According to the reports in Hindustan Times, Deepak Chahar has been called up to the squad and he will land in Dubai on Thursday. This is his maiden call-up to the ODI team after making a debut in the T20I decider against England a couple of months ago. Chahar is also known for his decent batting along with his swing bowling prowess. It remains to be seen if he will be handed over a debut in the game against Bangladesh on Friday. Who will play in the XI? Hardik Pandya will be definitely missed with the bat now. He is more than a capable bowler and his explosive batting always helps Team India finish strong. With him being ruled out, it remains to be seen if Chahar will walk into the XI or Axar Patel who has been warming the bench for a long time will get a chance. However, there will be a debate if these two players are good enough to bat at number seven in the line-up. It won’t be easy for them though and the top-order will have to do the bulk of the scoring now. One of them has to stay until the end and with MS Dhoni struggling to deliver, the other teams will be looking to pounce on India’s weakness now. The Men in Blue will face Bangladesh in their first Super Four game on Friday after which the arch-rivals will again play on Sunday. [interaction id=”5ba20361424674b0d575d261″] Keep following CricTracker for more news and updates<doc-sep>India will be without the services of Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Shardul Thakur for rest of Asia Cup 2018 with the trio being ruled out of the tournament due to injury. All-rounder Hardik Pandya suffered an acute lower back spasm during the India vs Pakistan Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Pandya was visibly in pain and had to be stretchered off the field. The incident took place in the 18th over (17.5) when he missed his footing in his follow-through. Deepak Chahar, Ravindra Jadeja and Siddharth Kaul have been named as the replacements for the injured trio and will join the team on Thursday. "All-rounder Hardik Pandya suffered an acute lower back spasm during the game against Pakistan and is undergoing treatment and assessment by the BCCI medical team. He will be unavailable for the remainder of the series. Deepak Chahar will replace Hardik Pandya in the squad," a BCCI statement said. Meanwhile, like Pandya, Axar too suffered an injury during the India vs Pakistan encounter. The left-arm spinner injured his left index finger while fielding and following a scan it was revealed that he had a tendon tear. Axar Patel will make way for Jadeja, who will join the team at the back of impressive performances with both the bat and ball in the final Test against England at The Oval, London. Promoted Right hip and groin soreness has ruled Thakur out of the tournament. The pacer was part of the Indian playing XI for the match against Hong Kong but will take no further part in the Asia Cup with Kaul being called up as his replacement. India's next Asia Cup assignment will see them take on Bangladesh in the Super Four stage on Friday.<doc-sep>
READ ALSO: Hardik Pandya, third Indian breakdown in three months Left-arm spinner Axar Patel injured his left index finger while fielding in the game against Pakistan. He was sent for scans and the results showed that he had a tendon tear. He will be unavailable for the remainder of the tournament. Ravindra Jadeja will replace Axar Patel in the squad. Right-arm pacer Shardul Thakur experienced right hip and groin soreness after the game against Hong Kong. He will be unavailable for the remainder of the tournament. Siddharth Kaul will replace Shardul Thakur in the squad. Injury update - @hardikpandya7 has an acute lower back injury. He is able to stand at the moment and the medical te… https://t.co/F0siZzDcgE — BCCI (@BCCI) 1537363029000 Deepak Chahar , Ravindra Jadeja & Siddharth Kaul will join the team on Thursday. Read this story in Marathi DUBAI: India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup with an acute back injury and Deepak Chahar will be his replacement.Chahar will be landing in Dubai on Thursday, a BCCI source said.Pandya not taking further part in the tournament was expected after he was stretchered off the field during the group league encounter against Pakistan on Wednesday.The incident took place in the 18th over of the Pakistan innings when the all-rounder was bowling his fifth over.It was the fifth delivery and Pandya, after completing the follow through, immediately felt his lower back and lay on the ground in considerable pain.He was unable to get up and was stretchered off. He was then taken for medical examination.Later, the BCCI tweeted that Pandya was suffering from an acute lower back injury.Pandya ended with figures of 4.5-0-24-0 after Babar Azam's catch was dropped by Mahendra Singh Dhoni when the batsman was on 32.
Skill, drama, spectacle and of course entertainment are the elements that should drive Formula One with, hopefully, a fine narrative to push the show along. Netflix certainly believes the sport has a story to tell, even though the two biggest names involved – Ferrari and Mercedes – refused to play ball when their cameras roamed the paddock last season. The result, Formula 1: Drive To Survive, is released on Friday and as it turns out, Netflix perhaps achieved something even more intriguing in their absence. The 10-part series was made by executive producer James Gay-Rees, who was behind the biopic documentaries Senna and Amy. The hyperbolic, faintly ridiculous title aside, he and Netflix have made a very decent fist of it. The fact that it exists at all is indicative of how the sport has changed. Such a project would have been unthinkable under Bernie Ecclestone, and it shows that F1’s owners, Liberty Media, understand that they need to sell that drama, spectacle and entertainment. That said, the series will not prove particularly revelatory to serious fans. Rather it is a pleasing recounting of the 2018 season, with some candid footage that is fascinating at times. There is plenty of slo-mo luxuriating in accidents and, inevitably, some hoary rock licks. Just once, it would be nice for a director to break that mould and see if anything other than tedious soft metal goes well with racing. Why not go mad, and try The Fall or Kitchens of Distinction? But that isn’t a concern for Netflix or Liberty. In terms of enticing in casual viewers and perhaps converting them, they have a fine appetiser for the new season, which begins in Melbourne next week. Quick Guide F1 2019: Teams and drivers Show There have been plenty of drivers switching seats in the buildup to the new season. Daniel Ricciardo has left Red Bull for Renault, with Carlos Sainz moving to McLaren after Fernando Alonso's departure. Frenchman Pierre Gasly has been promoted from Toro Rosso to replace Ricciardo, with British-Thai driver Alex Albon taking his place. Charles Leclerc moves from Sauber to partner Sebastian Vettel at Ferrari, trading places with Kimi Räikkönen (pictured), who will race for a rebranded Alfa Romeo team. Force India are now known as Racing Point, with Lance Stroll joining them from Williams. The British constructor welcomes two new drivers –home hopeful and Formula 2 world champion George Russell and Robert Kubica, who makes his F1 return eight years after suffering life-threatening injuries in a rallying accident. How the teams line up Alfa Romeo Kimi Räikkönen (Fin), Antonio Giovinazzi (It) Ferrari Sebastian Vettel (Ger), Charles Leclerc (Mon) Haas Romain Grosjean (Fr), Kevin Magnussen (Den) McLaren Lando Norris (GB), Carlos Sainz (Sp) Mercedes Lewis Hamilton (GB), Valtteri Bottas (Fin) Racing Point Sergio Pérez (Mex), Lance Stroll (Can) Red Bull Pierre Gasly (Fr), Max Verstappen (Neth) Renault Daniel Ricciardo (Aus), Nico Hülkenburg (Ger) Toro Rosso Alexander Albon (Thai), Daniil Kvyat (Rus) Williams George Russell (GB), Robert Kubica (Pol) Photograph: Cyril Zingaro/KEYSTONE Was this helpful? Thank you for your feedback. That said, those viewers may wonder why there is so little footage of the two title protagonists. Ferrari’s decision not to take part, until limited access was granted after the Italian Grand Prix, was not unexpected – under former team principal Maurizio Arrivabene, the team had a bunker mentality. Mercedes’ decision was more surprising, given they are generally very good in terms of access to the media. Their argument was that they did not want to be distracted from competing for the world championship. The show’s other executive producer, Paul Martin, believes they did a disservice to the fans and the sport by not taking part. Yet their absence has allowed other stories room to breathe, which is no bad thing. Guenther Steiner, Haas’s foul-mouthed, acerbic team principal, is one of the documentary’s stars. Photograph: Mark Thompson/Getty Images Taking centre stage and to a certain extent stealing the show is the Haas team principal, Guenther Steiner. The Italian is captivating. A man who is polite, calm and considered in conversation behind the scenes has an impressively acerbic wit and likes to eff and jeff with an alacrity that is glorious. His driver, Romain Grosjean, is often on the receiving end, with Steiner exclaiming during a race: “Just tell him to focus on driving and not fucking whinge. Fucking hell”. Later at a team dinner, Steiner laughingly refers to an out-of-favour Grosjean’s absence. “Romain is not here,” he says. “Maybe he is not here because he doesn’t have any points. Or I didn’t invite him because he doesn’t deserve any food”. After two wheels were not correctly installed at the Australian Grand Prix, costing Haas potentially their best ever finish, Steiner is magnificently blunt as he confesses to team owner Gene Haas. “We could have looked like rock stars,” he says. “But now we look like a fucking bunch of wankers. A bunch of fucking clowns.” The Recap: Sign up for our free roundup of editors’ picks. The mechanic responsible is later seen apologising, red-eyed and visibly distraught. This telling moment emphasis what the series has achieved in capturing the human behind the F1 spectacle. With mechanics usually helmeted and anonymous, the scene is a reminder that very real people and genuine emotion still lie at the heart of the sport. These traits are captured repeatedly. Red Bull’s team principal, Christian Horner, suggests that looking after donkeys would be easier than managing his drivers, during a season of clashes which ended in Daniel Ricciardo’s departure for Renault. Then we have McLaren’s CEO, Zak Brown, coping with a woeful car and the imminent departure of Fernando Alonso, and Claire Williams, the Williams deputy principal with the worst car on the grid, left questioning her own ability to do the job. There is an honesty to much of the series that is refreshing, especially in a sport where the volume of spin and secrecy often leaves little of substance. In a series that Liberty doubtless hope will help promote the sport, it was impressive that Steiner’s accurate description of one of the major issues facing F1 made the cut. He is, as ever, right on the money. “You want to see action, drama, the underdog getting a good result,” he says. “Each race should have a story and that story should not always be Mercedes or Ferrari wins. Because that story gets old pretty quick.”<doc-sep>The makers of Formula One's new Netflix series have accused Mercedes and Ferrari of letting down the sport by not taking part in the programme. Drive to Survive, a 10-part behind-the-scenes documentary filmed last season, will be released on March 8. Eight of F1's 10 teams agreed to provide Netflix with fly-on-the wall access, leading to a number of revealing scenes. But the programme glosses over Lewis Hamilton's championship battle with rival Sebastian Vettel after both Mercedes and Ferrari decided not to participate. The absence of Hamilton, F1's biggest star, and the sport's top two teams, is a major blow to F1's owners Liberty Media who dreamt up the documentary series in order to crack the United States. Indeed, the sport's commercial chief Sean Bratches is listed as an executive producer. "Mercedes and Ferrari wanted to operate under different terms to the rest of the teams, and us, as producers, and Netflix as the broadcasting platform, didn't feel comfortable with that," executive producer Paul Martin said. "It was going to be all-or-nothing and if those terms were good enough for the eight other teams, it should have been good enough for Mercedes and Ferrari, too. "My view is that they did a slight disservice to the fans and the sport by not taking part.<doc-sep>As part of the growing number of 'fly on the wall' documentaries looking inside elite sports teams, such as the New Zealand rugby union team or football clubs like Manchester City and Sunderland, it was only a matter of time until Formula 1 piqued producers' interest. A senior F1 source revealed to me last year that there were two offers on the table for the sport: one from Netflix, and a more lucrative offer from Amazon. IndyCar is coming to COTA 2019! Video of IndyCar is coming to COTA 2019! So why go with Netflix? The thinking is simple: people who subscribe to Netflix do so purely to watch shows and documentaries. They're guaranteed to be possible viewers. Given Amazon's streaming service is an addition to its one-day delivery service, the same would not have been true had F1 gone down that route. That surmised F1's approach towards its first venture into an external digital project. It wanted to do something that would reach a new fanbase and help expand its audience, a challenge Liberty Media has wrangled with since picking up the sport in early 2017. And frankly, this seems to be the most positive step made yet. The title of the series - Formula 1: Drive to Survive - sets the tone for much of the series. Plenty of screentime is given to high-speed crashes and dramatic moments from the 2018 season, including Marcus Ericsson's crash at Monza, the Red Bulls' collision in Azerbaijan and Nico Hulkenberg's flip in Abu Dhabi. It may seem a little overplayed to F1 fans, but for the casual viewer, incidents like these and the dangerous nature of the sport is part of its appeal. So to hook around this is perhaps expected. The series does an excellent job at highlighting many of the stories from up and down the paddock with plenty of behind-the-scenes access. Daniel Ricciardo's move away from Red Bull is set against the souring of relations between the team and Renault, resulting in some intriguing moments between Christian Horner and Cyril Abiteboul. The needle between them we saw at moments during press conferences last year is only given more exposure in this for us to enjoy in excruciatingly awkward detail. Red Bull gets a huge amount of screentime through the series. It's not until the fifth episode Red Bull isn't one of the teams in the spotlight, with the shift away from the team feeling slightly refreshing. Ricciardo stands out as the star from the series, given the perfect platform to display his humour and character. Particular highlights include a song about his scrotum - yes, really - and his last appearance in the series, which acts as the final line of the season. The other stand-out figure of the series? Haas F1 team principal Guenther Steiner. Steiner is a brutally honest figure when discussing Haas' fortunes, particularly when Romain Grosjean goes through his early-season struggles. Whereas most team bosses would have closed up or stuck to a very PR-savvy line when defending a driver, Steiner airs his thoughts, making clear in sweary terms that Grosjean's spate of crashes cannot go on. It's a really good into the world of running an F1 team both for newcomers and ardent followers of the sport. Red Bull and Haas do appear to get the lion's share of coverage across the 10 episodes. Renault and Force India - the latter getting two episodes of focus - appear quite a bit, while McLaren is also covered well during its summer of changes. But Toro Rosso, Sauber and Williams get very minimal coverage. Williams' appearance over the Monaco Grand Prix acts as more of a scene-setter for Lawrence Stroll's takeover of Force India that is covered in a later episode. Drivers such as Sergey Sirotkin, Brendon Hartley and Stoffel Vandoorne are hardly mentioned. The absence of Ferrari and Mercedes from the series has already drawn criticism, and while it would have been good to see some of the most famous names in F1 appear, it actually works nicely to have the focus placed elsewhere. The success of Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes is noted, so it's not like they're erased completely. It would be good to see what is possible for the planned 2019 series if both teams jump on-board with the project. The way in which the series is tied together deserves a huge amount of praise. Commentary cuts across the BBC, Sky and Channel 4 help to tell the story, as does the use of two journalists to explain some details in F1 that a newcomer to the sport may not otherwise understand. Everything is covered in a way that never feels like you are being talked down to, though - a key balance that has been struck very well indeed. There will be some inconsistencies the more pedantic fan (myself included in this) will pick out, such as Charles Leclerc's move to Ferrari being portrayed as something that was confirmed post-Singapore, when it was announced in the lead-up to the race. All in all, though, the series did an excellent job given the constraints of lacking the two biggest teams and drivers of showing what life in the paddock is like. The videography is beautiful, making it a real, real treat to watch as well. Can this be the magic bullet to get more people interested in F1? It certainly has the potential to be. Football clubs such as Sunderland and Manchester City saw surges in popularity following the success of the series on them in the past couple of years. If F1 can see a similar uptake in interest, this may yet go down as the most successful move yet from the sport's new management to expand its fanbase and attract a new raft of fans.<doc-sep>
The first series of Formula 1: Drive to Survive is launched worldwide on the streaming service on Friday. Originally only eight teams agreed to be fully involved, with Ferrari and Mercedes opting out when filming commenced at Barcelona pre-season testing last year. However, by the end of the season the Italian team had relented and did grant some access, allowing the Scuderia to be featured more later in the series. F1 is now in negotiation with all the teams over the second series. Despite it not yet being fully signed off, production company Box to Box made a head start by undertaking some filming at the Barcelona test, and its cameras will also be present in Australia. F1’s head of motorsport Ross Brawn believes that all teams will come to understand the value of being involved in such promotional activities. “I think this sport is able to grow, and it will grow quicker if all the teams are part of that process, there's no doubt,” he said. “I think the teams are starting to recognise that their involvement is not just on the track, there's an involvement in everywhere we can improve the sport. “Maybe not every team is reaching that conclusion at the same time, but they are all reaching that conclusion. I think we'll see another step forward in 2019." Speaking at a launch event for the series, at which he saw the first two episodes for the first time, Brawn stressed that fans wanted to know more about the people involved in the sport. “I think in a way what you've seen tonight is an indication of the way we're going," he said. "This is an example of the changes that are coming in F1. "The human side has always been fascinating and all of us have been involved in that side. “Certainly now I'm away from a team I've felt that that would be a fascinating story because there is so much emotion of the whole team – the individuals, the mechanics, the engineers, the family. "I know from my own family how much they suffer and how much pleasure they get on both sides. And you could see that in the film. “Since we've started this new era, one of the things that's come across very strongly from the fans is that they want to understand about the drivers, they want to understand what goes on. “There’s a fascination in why these guys are so special. What is it that makes them exceptional. I think in both those episodes we saw different aspects of F1. "I particularly liked the second one – the [Carlos] Sainz and [Fernando] Alonso chemistry that was there. Those are things that you just don't necessarily see or feel.” F1’s head of marketing Ellie Norman confirmed that the second series was still being discussed with the teams. “Conversations are happening at the moment with all of the teams with regards to filming of Season 2,” she said. “Box to Box were filming in Barcelona testing and they will be in Melbourne, and obviously we would love to have all teams involved and signed up. “We've just started the conversations with the teams, and that does take time. I think Netflix have real confidence in the first one, so they put the funding up for Box to Box to cover the filming from testing and within Melbourne as well. We haven't set a deadline.” Norman acknowledged that Lewis Hamilton’s busy schedule made it hard for him to commit to the project. “Part of it was taking the Netflix opportunity to all the teams, and we understand and appreciate that if they're looking at a schedule, and they've got other activities going on," she said. "I think particularly Mercedes have an awful lot going on with a driver who is into fashion, into music – it was just too much for them to take on at that time.” A TV cameraman at work Photo by: Zak Mauger / LAT Images
The red carpet at the 2019 Oscars was filled with pink gowns, unexpected accessories, and one of the rarest diamonds in the world. But notably missing amongst all the glitz and glamour? Lupita Nyong'o. The Oscar-winning actress opted to skip this year's red carpet, which is a real shame because she wore the most stunning gown for the occasion. Sharing a behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram, Lupita revealed her look for the night: a gorgeous, white feathered Oscar de la Renta gown. This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. The dreamy, one-shouldered dress was straight off the runway from the fashion house's Fall 2019 show at New York Fashion Week. It featured a high-low hemline and belted waist. Oscar de la Renta Fall 2019 Getty Images Along with her breathtaking gown choice, she wore Roger Vivier sandals and paid homage to her film Black Panther with a special piece of jewelry. She wore a bespoke diamond ring designed by jeweler Zameer Kassam. The sparkling piece featured prongs inspired by the iconic "Wakanda Forever" symbol, black diamonds to represent her work for the TimesUp movement, 14 diamonds on each side for her 2014 Oscar win, and the words “Your dreams are valid," from her Oscar-winning speech engraved into the ring. Courtesy Zameer Kassam Fine Jewelry It's unclear why the actress decided to skip this year's red carpet, but she did attend the award show. See all the celebrities who walked the red carpet at the 2019 Academy Awards below. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>Lupita Nyong'o was light as a feather Sunday while attending the 91st annual Academy Awards in Hollywood and its associated parties. The 35-year-old Black Panther star looked ready to take flight in a white, feathery Oscar de la Renta gown. The Oscar-winning actress bared one-shoulder in the dress that included an asymmetrical hem that showed her legs up front with a train in the back. Feather dress: Lupita Nyong'o kept it light in a white Oscar de la Renta feather dress as she arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Beverly Hills, California after the awards ceremony Lupita completed her outfit with black Sin Satin sandals from Roger Vivier and accessorized with sparkling earrings. The Lancome ambassador worked with makeup artist Nick Barose on her beauty look for this evening, which the beauty pro described as 'feminine and flirty'. 'For the Academy Awards, Lupita’s white feathery dress called for a feminine and flirty look,' he explained. 'I did so by playing up the look with pearlized eyes, flirty lashes and matte raspberry tone lips. The key was mixing metallic pearl-toned eyeshadows and placing lashes on the outer corners to make the look party-ready.' Nick used an array of Lancome products to create that metallic eye look, working with the Starlight Sparkle Eyeshadow Palette and the Color Design Starlight Sparkle Eyeshadow Palette to add some shimmer and shine to her lids, before injecting some edge with the Drama Liqui-Pencil and the Hypnose Doll Lashes Mascara. Meanwhile the raspberry hue on her lips came courtesy of the Lancome L’Absolu Rouge Drama Matte in 417 Berry Intense. Lupita teamed up at the Governors Ball with her Black Panther co-stars Danai Gurira, 41, and Letitia Wright, 25. Black Panther was nominated in the Best Picture category after earning more than $1.35 billion at the worldwide box office. Oscar winner: The 35-year-old Oscar-winning actress twirled her dress upon arrival at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Hit movie: Lupita starred in Black Panther that was nominated for seven Oscars Busy star: The actress can be seen later this year in Us and Star Wars: Episode IX Asymmetrical hem: Lupita wore a feather dress with an asymmetrical hem that was shorter up front The film by director Ryan Coogler, 32, in total was nominated for seven Academy Awards. Lupita took to Instagram after the awards ceremony to celebrate the film's three Oscar wins for Best Costume Design, Production Design and Score. She posted a photo of herself in the audience at the Dolby Theatre along with some of her Black Panther co-stars. Lupita wrote in the caption for her roughly 6.8 million followers: '@TheRealRuthECarter and #HannahBeachler are the first black women ever to win their respective categories, and these are @MarvelStudios' first Oscar statues. I'm so grateful to have been part of this journey and can’t wait to see what’s next. #WakandaForever'. Party time: Lupita flashed her winning smile as she arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party Lupita recently starred in the comedy horror film Little Monsters that premiered in January at the Sundance Film Festival. Neon and Hulu acquired the distribution rights to Little Monster after its world premiere. Lupita also will star in the upcoming psychological horror-thriller Us by Get Out director Jordan Peele, 40. Us will have its world premiere March 8 at South By Southwest followed by a wide release on March 22. Lupita also will reprise her role as Maz Kanata in Star Wars: Episode IX scheduled for release December 20, 2019.<doc-sep>Lupita Nyong'o played the role of Nakia in the film Black Panther. The film Black Panther has now been nominated for seven Oscars. Lupita Nyong'o is basically known for her role of Nakia in the film Black Panther. Recently, it has been a celebration time for all the cast and crew of Black Panther as the film has made its way into the Oscars 2019. The Marvel movie has been nominated for seven Oscars. Lupita has recently tweeted a post where the Black Panther actress has showcased her final look for walking down the red carpet of the 91st Academy Awards. Lupita can be seen wearing a golden coloured collared dress which made her look drop dead gorgeous. The actress put minimal makeup on her face and wore a light shaded lipstick which complemented her entire look. Lupita even added a caption to her tweet which read, 'Gold. #OscarsWeekend.' Black Panther which was produced by Marvel Studios was released in the year 2018. It happens to be the eighteenth film of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Black Panther starred Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong'o, Michael B. Jordan, Martin Freeman, Danai Gurira and many others in significant roles. Chadwick Boseman played the titular role of Black Panther in the film while Lupita Nyong'o played the role of Nakia, his former lover. Upon its release, Black Panther came to be considered as the highest grossing superhero film of all times. The film, which has been directed by Ryan Coogler, was one of the most talked about films on social media in the year 2018. It was also the most tweeted about film of the year 2018. The film is known for its amazing picturisation and use of special effects. Reportedly, more than 2,000 VFX shots were being used in the movie. Moreover, Black Panther was the first ever movie to have been publicly screened in Saudi Arabia in the last 35 years. (ALSO READ: Lupita Nyong'o has a special birthday message for Oprah Winfrey; details inside) Credits :Twitter Read More<doc-sep>
Lupita Nyong’o shined once again at the ‘Vanity Fair’ Oscars after-party! The ‘Black Panther’ star dazzled in a feathered dress we’re going to be obsessing over until the end of time! Lupita Nyong’o, 35, skipped the Oscars red carpet, but she made a grand entrance at the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party. The actress wowed in a white feathered Oscar de la Renta gown. She worked that dress on the after-party red carpet, twirling around to showcase the entire gown. The look also featured a high-low hemline and belted waist. The Oscar winner has rocked some of the most amazing looks over the course of this awards season. At the Screen Actors Guild Awards, she slayed in a gorgeous black ensemble by Vera Wang. She also wore her hair in beautiful box braids. Lupita made a major fashion statement with an electric blue Calvin Klein dress at the 2019 Golden Globes. Lupita won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2014 for her role in 12 Years A Slave. She stunned in a gorgeous Cinderella blue gown at the ceremony. The next year, she returned to the Oscars in a pearl-embellished Calvin Klein dress. Lupita brought her fashion A-game once again to the 2018 Oscars in a gold sequined Versace gown. Seriously, put these looks in a museum! While Lupita wasn’t up for any acting awards this time, Black Panther wasnominated for a whopping 7 Oscars, including Best Picture. The film walked away with 3 Oscars for Best Original Score, Best Achievement in Costume Design, and Best Achievement in Production Design. The Marvel movie made history in more ways than one. Not only was Black Panther the first superhero movie to be nominated for Best Picture, the film was also the third highest-grossing movie of all-time at the domestic box office. The cast is set to return for the sequel, which will start shooting in 2019. Her next film is Jordan Peele’s Us, which will be released on March 22.
At least 10 people in India have died from a rare virus known as Nipah virus, according to news reports. The deaths occurred in Kerala, a state in southern India, according to the BBC. Two other people have tested positive for the virus and are critically ill, and an additional 40 people have been put into quarantine after having contact with those who died, the BBC reported. Nipah virus infection is an emerging disease that was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The virus is thought to naturally infect fruit bats (of the genus Pteropus), but it can also infect pigs and other domesticated animals, as well as humans, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The virus can also spread from person to person. [10 Deadly Diseases That Hopped Across Species] Nipah virus can cause an inflammation of the brain known as encephalitis, according to the CDC. Symptoms can include fever and headache, followed by drowsiness, disorientation and confusion. People who are infected with the virus may fall into a coma within 48 hours of showing symptoms, the CDC says. The virus can be highly lethal, with an average fatality rate of around 75 percent, according to the WHO. Human infections with Nipah virus in India and Bangladesh have been linked with eating raw date palm sap contaminated by fruit bats, and contact with bats, the CDC said. There's no drug to treat the illness and no vaccine to prevent it. "We are now concentrating on precautions to prevent the spread of the disease since the treatment is limited to supportive care," Rajeev Sadanandan, Kerala's health secretary, told the BBC today (May 21). Editor's note: This article was updated on May 22 at 12:30 pm ET with new information on the number of deaths tied to the outbreak. Original article on Live Science.<doc-sep>An outbreak of the Nipah virus is being blamed for the deaths of 10 people, including a nurse, in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Three of the victims have tested positive for the virus. The results of blood and bodily fluid tests taken from the other seven fatalities are currently being examined in Pune. An additional 25 people have been hospitalised after displaying symptoms of the infectious disease, with the health secretary, Rajeev Sadanandan, stating that the authorities are currently unable to determine the extent of its spread due to the virus having an incubation period of between four and 18 days. Recommended Foreign Office warns against travel to area of latest Ebola outbreak But what is the Nipah virus and how is it transmitted? The disease was first identified among pig farmers in Kampung Sungai Nipah, Malaysia, in 1998 and a year later in Singapore and thrives in tropical southern Asia and Australasia. That first epidemic saw 100 people die and 300 human cases diagnosed in total. More than a million infected pigs were slaughtered and Malaysia's pork trade duly suffered. It is transmitted to humans by animals and is most commonly carried by the fruit bat, which might infect via an intermediary. In Bangladesh in 2004, a number of people caught the disease after consuming date palm sap contaminated by infected flying-foxes. Mangoes bitten by the bats were found in a Kerala house where three of the most recent victims were found. Forty-five people died when further cases were found in Siliguri, West Bengal, in 2001 and another five died of Nipah in the same state in 2007. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital.<doc-sep>Health officials are working to treat those infected with a rare, brain-damaging virus in southern India. It is the first reported outbreak in the country. The first death happened May 18, said a state health minister in Kerala, the state at the epicentre of the outbreak blamed for the 12 deaths, including a nurse. "The Nipah virus disease is not a major outbreak and is only a local occurrence," the government said in a statement on Friday, adding that a team of experts continued to monitor the situation. Three victims, members of one family, are suspected to have been infected by bats that crowded a well near their home, a local government official said. "It's in the southern part of India, in Kerala, where it has never been seen before," said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital who treats tropical diseases. Much is unknown about Nipah virus and the details of this outbreak. Here are some answers. What is the virus? Nipah virus was discovered in humans in 1999 in Malaysia. It caused mild disease in pigs but the country experienced nearly 300 human cases and 100 deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The virus is named after the Malaysian village where it was first identified, the World Health Organization says. What happens when people are infected? Initial signs include fever, chills, muscle aches and pains. Ultimately, Bogoch said, the virus causes encephalitis, inflammation of the brain. People can have seizures and headaches. Severe inflammation can cause a coma. The death rate ranges from 40 per cent to 75 per cent, he said. Fortunately, it is rare. Many people who survive are left with continuing problems. "Those can include cognitive deficits, some people are left with a seizure disorder afterwards and there's been reports of hearing and vision changes," Bogoch said. Where does it come from? The virus naturally occurs in bats, and the animals are considered the main reservoir of the virus. How can people be exposed? Bats shed the virus in their saliva, urine, semen and feces, but they don't have symptoms of the virus. People who eat fruit that's been in contact with bat secretions can pick up the infection, Bogoch said. Nipah virus is highly contagious among pigs, and the animals have infected people. Swine spread it by coughing, and the virus may also be in their urine or feces. People who work closely with pigs may pick up the virus. Medical personnel wearing protective suits check patients at the Medical College hospital in Kozhikode on May 21. (AFP/Getty) Health-care providers or family members can also get it through close contact with an infected person, if they have not taken precautions such as avoiding the patient's secretions. Scientists still need to work out the details of exactly how Nipah and related viruses, the fruit bat host and their environment all interact. How is it treated? There is no specific treatment. Prevention is important to managing the illness. Is a vaccine available? There is no commercial vaccine for humans or animals. At the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease in Winnipeg, researchers started studying the Nipah virus after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, when there were concerns it could be used in bioterrorism. The goal of the research is to rapidly detect the virus in swine herds, develop diagnostic tests, understand how pigs respond to the disease and to assist in the development of vaccines, said Hana Weingartl, a research scientist and head of the special pathogens unit at the centre. The Nipah virus naturally occurs in bats. People who eat fruit that's been in contact with bat secretions can pick up the infection. (Biju Boro/AFP/Getty) "In a way it's work which is a little bit invisible because we don't have Nipah virus in Canada, so people are not aware about the danger," Weingartl said in an interview. "But internationally, it is important to be able to work with the virus and be prepared because the virus is changing, and similarly to influenza it is quite possible it can … obtain the ability to readily transmit from humans to humans." The lab has tested three candidate vaccines in animals, one intended for eventual use in humans and the others for veterinary use. "The vaccine is not an attractive proposition for companies," Weingartl said. Of the three, the first was excellent, she said, but the company decided not to follow up, and the second needs more work, which is being done in England and Australia. Weingartl and her team are testing the third. The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), a global alliance of governments and non-profits, pledged $25 million US in collaboration with two pharmaceutical firms towards the development and manufacture of a vaccine against the Nipah virus. Given how emerging viruses like Nipah can show up unexplained, Weingartl said there's reason to be on guard. The Kerala outbreak "is definitely a concern," Weingartl said. "As a scientist, I would like to know how bad it is, what it is, what is the transmission route." "This is what we would term a neglected tropical infection," Bogoch said. A travel advisory hasn't been issued, and Bogoch said he doesn't think people should be concerned about travel to the area. Beaches in the tourist areas of Kerala are not as busy as normal, and travel agents there report cancellations.<doc-sep>Officials inspect a well to catch bats in Kozhikode district in India's Kerala state after the outbreak. (CNN) — The death toll from an outbreak of Nipah virus has risen to 10 in India’s southern state of Kerala. Nine patients that tested positive for the virus have been quarantined and are being treated, Rajeev Sadanandan, additional chief secretary for the state’s Department of Health and Family Welfare, told CNN on Tuesday. The outbreak began in the northern district of Kozhikode and has spread to neighboring Malappuram district, Sadanandan said. Symptoms of Nipah virus can begin with headache and drowsiness but quickly transform into a coma within a matter of days, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Other symptoms include acute respiratory syndrome – where the lungs cannot get enough oxygen to the body – and fatal encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. There is no vaccine, and treatment is limited to supportive care. Among the dead was a nurse, identified as Lini, who was treating patients at Perambra Taluk Hospital in Kozhikode. In a tweet, the office of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan posted his condolences to her family, writing that the nurse’s “selfless service will be remembered.” CM condoled over the demise of Lini, the nurse who died of infection while taking care of Nipah virus affected patients. It is saddening to know that she lost her life while serving others. Her selfless service will be remembered. pic.twitter.com/RaE973xRJ2 — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) May 22, 2018 The first cases were reported Saturday in a family from Kozhikode, and then India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the World Health Organization were contacted, Vijayan’s office said Monday via Twitter. Two brothers in their late 20s and their aunt, 50, died from the virus, while their father, 56, remains on life support. Statewide alert issued WHO said fruit bats were found in an unused well near the family’s house along with some rabbits being bred that had died recently. Nipah virus is known to infect both humans and animals, with certain species of fruit bat being natural hosts. People can become infected after contact with infected bats, or other animals, and humans. WHO added it was awaiting findings from experts to determine the source of infection and was in close contact with experts deployed to the affected areas to be “ready for any request for assistance.” A statewide alert has been issued to remain vigilant, and a 24-hour control room to monitor the situation has opened, Vijayan said. ’Dynamic situation’ A total of 60 samples have been tested for Nipah virus, which includes people who have already died as well as those who came into contact with patients confirmed to have the virus, Dr. Reena KJ, additional director of public health for Kerala, told CNN. That number is expected to rise, according to Sadanandan, the Kerala health official, who described it as a “dynamic situation.” Deaths in other districts where people had symptoms of the virus are also being tested. The state government has made assurances that the “health department is doing everything possible to save the lives of the infected and prevent the advance of virus,” the chief minister’s office tweeted Monday. CM Pinarayi Vijayan has informed that Government is closely monitoring the spread of the Nipah virus. Health department is doing everything possible to save the lives of the infected & prevent the advance of virus. — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) May 21, 2018 A subsequent tweet urged private hospitals not to “deny treatment for anyone suffering from fever.” India’s health ministry has also deployed a response team to Kerala. JP Nadda, India’s minister of health and family welfare, said in a statement Monday that his department was “closely monitoring the situation” and had “dispatched a central team to assist the state government and initiate required steps.” About Nipah virus Nipah virus was first identified during a 1998-1999 outbreak in Malaysia, where almost 300 people were infected and more than 100 died, according to the CDC. More than 1 million pigs were euthanized to halt the spread of the illness. The virus was named after the village of Kampung Sungai Nipah, where pig farmers contracted the disease. There have been subsequent outbreaks in India and Bangladesh, with more than 600 reported human cases between 1998 and 2015, according to WHO. Many parts of Asia as well as Australia, Madagascar and Ghana are at risk of outbreaks. The virus is on WHO’s list of epidemic threats in need of urgent research and development. CNN’s Meera Senthilingam contributed to this report.<doc-sep>
Ten people in the South Indian state of Kerala have died after being infected by the Nipah virus, an emerging disease thought to be spread by fruit bats and other animals. Here’s what you should know about the outbreak. What is the Nipah virus? The Nipah virus is a highly contagious and deadly virus that was first identified in 1999 when pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore became very sick. During that outbreak, nearly 300 people were infected, and more than 100 people died. To stop the outbreak, authorities had to euthanize over one million pigs. Since then, the virus has been identified in outbreaks in Bangladesh and India. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that outbreaks of Nipah virus now occur in Bangladesh almost every year, and there have been several outbreaks in India prior to the current one. The death rate from the Nipah virus is estimated to be about 75%. The virus is spread to humans who have direct contact with animals that are infected, like fruit bats or pigs. It can also spread between people, often between family and caregivers of people who are infected. What is happening in the current outbreak? The outbreak is taking place in Kerala, a southern state in India. So far, 10 deaths have been reported, and there are currently at least nine other people who have tested positive for the virus and are quarantined. Multiple people who came into contact with the sick individuals are also under surveillance. Experts speculate that the ongoing outbreak was initially spread by bats. What are the symptoms of Nipah? When a person is infected with the Nipah virus, they experience encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. It typically takes five to 14 days for symptoms of an infection to start to appear. These symptoms include fever and headaches that are followed by drowsiness and confusion. It’s then possible for the symptoms to progress to a coma. The CDC says long-term side effects among survivors can include convulsions and personality changes. How is the Nipah virus treated? There is no cure for the Nipah virus. Instead, people who are infected are treated with supportive care, which includes making sure the person stays hydrated, and treating any nausea or vomiting. People can take steps to prevent Nipah “by avoiding exposure to sick pigs and bats in endemic areas and not drinking raw date palm sap,” which can be contaminated by excretions from infected bats, the CDC says. Contact us at [email protected].
A Michigan family of five was killed Sunday when a wrong-way driver believed to be drunk crashed into their SUV on a Kentucky interstate as they were returning from a vacation, authorities said. Issam Abbas, 42, his wife, Dr. Rima Abbas, 38, and their children Ali, 14; Isabella, 13; and Giselle, 7, all died after the SUV they were in went up in flames after being struck head-on by a pickup truck headed south in a northbound lane on I-75 in Lexington, according to the Lexington Police Department. The driver of the pickup, identified as a 41-year-old Georgetown, Kentucky, man was also killed in the 2:30 a.m. collision, said police, who asked the public for any information they had regarding the crash. The Fayette County Coroner believes the pickup truck driver was under the influence. The Abbas family was returning home from a trip to Florida, the coroner said. "Our hearts are broken at this horrific news," ACCESS, the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services, said in a statement. "Dr. Rima and her family were loving members of the Dearborn community and they will forever remain in our memory." Funeral services for the family began Sunday and would run through Tuesday at the Islamic Center of America, according to the City of Dearborn. A statement from Northville Public Schools, which the three children attended, said support staff would be available Monday to help students work through the loss, according to NBC affiliate WDIV. "Our hearts go out to this grieving family and all those affected by this tremendous loss," the statement said.<doc-sep>Lexington, Ky. — A suspected drunken driver heading the wrong way on Interstate 75 in Kentucky struck a vehicle carrying five family members from Michigan early Sunday, killing all six people, authorities said. The southbound pickup truck being driven in the northbound lanes struck the family's sport utility vehicle at 2:30 a.m. in Lexington. The SUV caught fire and all five occupants of that vehicle died, along with the pickup's driver, Lexington police said in a statement. The family from Northville, Michigan, was returning from a vacation in Florida, the Fayette County coroner's office said. Witness Kenneth DeGraaf told local media the pickup truck was coming toward him prior to the fiery crash. "I thought I was seeing something, honestly," DeGraaf told WLEX-TV. "He was in the center lane. I was in the center lane. I had to merge out of the way at the last second to get to the right lane. I mean, he was flying. Absolutely flying." Crews respond to a deadly car accident early Sun., Jan. 6, 2019, in Lexington, Ky. WKYT-TV The driver of the white pickup was identified as 41-year-old Joey Lee Bailey of Georgetown. The coroner's statement says authorities believe Bailey was driving under the influence. Results of a toxicology report are pending, according to CBS affiliate WKYT-TV. The interstate was shut for hours as the accident investigation opened. Authorities identified the Michigan family members as 42-year-old Issam Abbas and Rima Abbas, 38, and their children: a boy, Ali Abbas, 14, and girls Isabella Abbas, 13, and Giselle Abbas, 7. The City of Dearborn, Michigan, posted an image of the family on Instagram, writing, "Please keep them, their families and friends in your thoughts and prayers." According to the Islamic Center of America of Dearborn, Michigan, funeral services for the family are set for Tuesday at the center. Local media reported in Michigan that the death of the family has devastated relatives and friends. Habib Abbas of Dearborn, who identified himself as a cousin of the father, told The Detroit News that when he first heard about the crash he didn't believe it and went about his day. "I thought it was a rumor or something and then saw it again and called her sister. She and the family are even more in denial," Abbas told the newspaper. He added that Issam Abbas was a lawyer and that Rima Abbas was a doctor and devoted mother to their children. He said the extended family was close and that his cousin led a "beautiful life." "You don't expect a whole family to get wiped out," he said. "You think to yourself 'What's the worst case scenario?' and that's it." It was the second crash in three days involving multiple deaths on Interstate 75, a bustling north-south corridor crossing the nation's midsection from South Florida to the U.S. border with Canada. Near Gainesville, Florida, an accident Thursday on a relatively flat stretch of the interstate that started between two tractor-trailers killed seven people, including five children on a trip to Walt Disney World in a church van from Louisiana. The truck drivers also were killed and at least eight others were injured. Anyone with information about Sunday's accident is urged to call (859) 258-3663.<doc-sep>A new clue found in the truck that smashed head-on into an SUV on I-75, killing a family of five from Northville, suggests that the driver may have been intoxicated, Kentucky police said Tuesday. "There was some evidence recovered in the vehicle that might lead us to believe that's a possibility," said Brenna Angel, a Lexington Police spokeswoman. "We are looking at all possible factors that may have contributed to him going the wrong direction." Angel declined to elaborate on what was found. An official determination has not been made and toxicology results are pending. The Northville family — Issam Abbas, 42; his wife, Dr. Rima Abbas, 38, and their three children, Ali, 13; Isabella, 12, and Giselle, 7 — was returning from a Florida vacation in their Cadillac Escalade when they were struck by the white Chevrolet pickup. No one survived. Police in Lexington, Kentucky, are attempting to reconstruct the accident, looking for clues to why the pickup driver — Joey Lee Bailey, 41, of Georgetown, Kentucky, who also died — went the wrong way on the interstate. Based on 911 calls, police said Bailey likely was traveling the strip of interstate through Kentucky for about 6 miles. He likely got on the highway headed in the wrong direction at mile marker 113. The collision occurred at marker 107. In addition, surveillance video captured by a nearby business shows a white pickup on the interstate, a Kentucky TV station reported. Angel, who declined to comment on Bailey's driving record, said the pickup driver was absolutely at fault. More: Family killed in I-75 crash delayed trip because of grandmother's death Michigan family of 5 killed in fiery crash to be laid to rest, community mourns Thousands mourn Abbas family at Islamic Center of America in Dearborn A look at Bailey's driving history in Kentucky through public records turned up no prior cases of driving or operating under the influence. Court documents did turn up dismissed cases in 2002 for excessive window tinting and no tinting label, dismissed cases in 2006 of speeding and failing to wear a seat belt, and dismissed cases in 2007 of no or expired plate registration, no operator's license. Bailey was found guilty in 2007 of permitting unlawful vehicle operation. It's yet unclear, police said, what caused the Escalade to burst into flames. It likely was going 60 to 80 mph — close to the speed limit — when it was hit, head-on, by the pickup which may have been traveling at a similar speed. Information recovered from the vehicles that record crash data are expected to provide more answers. Police said the pickup was badly damaged but did not catch fire. The Arab-American family, which was put to rest after a two-hour service Tuesday morning inside one of America's most prominent mosques in Dearborn on Tuesday, has received an outpouring of anguish and support. Mourners solemnly lined up inside the Dearborn mosque to pay their respects. "It is a tragedy and it will deeply affect many people," Angel said, adding that police hope the investigation will offer insights to prevent future crashes. "It's just awful the amount of loss of life from a single incident." Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or [email protected]. Staff writers Bill Laitner and Niraj Warikoo contributed to this report. Louisville Courier Journal staff writer Billy Kobin also contributed to this report.<doc-sep>
A Northville family of five returning home from vacation was killed in a fiery crash when their SUV was struck head-on by a wrong-way driver on northbound I-75 early Sunday morning in Lexington, Kentucky. The Fayette County Coroner in Lexington, Kentucky, identified those killed as Issam Abbas, 42, his wife, Dr. Rima Abbas, 38, and their children: Ali, 14; Isabella, 13, and Giselle, 7. The coroner said the family was returning from a trip to Florida. Update: Family killed in I-75 crash had delayed trip because of grandmother death Also killed was the driver of the pickup truck that reportedly struck the Abbas' vehicle. The coroner identified him as Joey Lee Bailey, 41, of Georgetown, Kentucky, and said Bailey was believed to be driving under the influence. Toxicology results were pending Sunday afternoon. Bailey's vehicle was traveling south in the northbound lanes of I-75 when it struck the Abbas family's sport-utility vehicle. Rana Abbas Taylor, the sister of Dr. Rima Abbas, in a message to the Free Press Sunday night said: "We remain in shock and we are beyond devastated." She declined further comment. More:Michigan family of 5 killed in fiery crash to be laid to rest, community mourns Rima Abbas is listed as specializing in family medicine on Beaumont's website, practicing in the Beaumont Medical Center in Garden City. She is affiliated with Beaumont Wayne and Beaumont Dearborn. She graduated from Wayne State University's medical school in 2006. Issam was an attorney and real estate agent. "There is no way the family and our community can fathom this loss," said Fayez Faraj, who says he has been a close family friend for the past 25 years. "A beautiful family was senselessly taken away from us. The Abbas family was kind, loving, outgoing and generous. They raised three beautiful children who shared their parents love of life." A condolence service was held Sunday night at the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn. Visitation will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, also at the center. The funeral is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. The deaths drew an outpouring of anguish and support on social media. Wayne County Commissioner Sam Baydoun, who also worked with Issam, took to Facebook to say: "I am at loss for words. There are no words to describe this tragedy. My friend and colleague and his wife and three children were killed in a fiery crash earlier today." Wayne County Executive Warren Evans also issued a statement on Facebook: "I am heartbroken by the news that Issam and Rima Abbas, along with their three children Ali, Isabella, and Giselle, were killed in a traffic crash this morning while traveling in Kentucky." Rima's office will be closed Monday and Beaumont is in the process of notifying her patients, the hospital said. “We are devastated by the tragic loss of Dr. Rima Abbas, her beloved husband and children," David Wood, Beaumont Health chief medical officer, said in a statement. "She was a caring mother and a dedicated family practice physician. Our hearts go out to all of her family, friends and patients during this difficult time." The crash occurred about 2:30 a.m., on I-75 about one mile before the Man o' War Blvd exit, Lexington police said in a press release. Just before the collision happened, several 9-1-1 calls were received about a white pickup truck traveling in the wrong direction in the northbound lanes. A preliminary investigation determined that the pickup truck hit an SUV head-on, causing the SUV to catch fire. Video posted by Lexington TV stations shows both cars engulfed in a raging fire. Contact David Jesse: 313-222-8851 or [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter: @reporterdavidj. Staff Writer Jennifer Dixon and Picture Editor Melanie Maxwell contributed to this report. More:Prisoners leave makeshift in bunks in apparent escape effort More:Police: Babysitter pretended baby was alive
"Friendly message to anyone who wants to engage in illegal activity and be a member of a gang: We will never give up on keeping our community safe and free of violence," they said in the post.<doc-sep>FONTANA, Calif. (KABC) -- Police discovered an underground shooting range while serving a search warrant Thursday evening at the Fontana home of a known gang member, authorities said.In a statement, the Fontana Police Department said members of its S.M.A.S.H. Gang Enforcement Unit found a manhole in the house that led to the shooting range and a hiding area.Officers located "numerous" weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition, including a 100-round drum for an AR-15 rifle, the news release said.An unspecified number of suspects were arrested without incident and booked. Their names and the specific charges were not disclosed. "Friendly message to anyone who wants to engage in illegal activity and be a member of a gang: We will never give up on keeping our community safe and free of violence," the police statement said. "We are the champions at hide-and-seek, and no manhole will help you. If you hide, we will find you. If you run, you will go to jail tired. ""We strongly recommend that you put as much effort as you did in your underground cave into becoming a productive member of society," the department added. "You will thank us later for this advice."<doc-sep>A mural of George Floyd is shown in the intersection of 38th St & Chicago Ave on March 31, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Community members continue preparations during the third day in the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who is charged with multiple counts of murder in the death of George Floyd. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 01: President Donald Trump's lawyer and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani talks to journalists outside the White House West Wing July 01, 2020 in Washington, DC. Giuliani did an on-camera interview with One America News Network's Chanel Rion before talking to other journalists about Vice President Joe Biden and the news that Russian intelligence may have paid Taliban operatives to kill U.S. troops in Afghanistan. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Vigils & tributes to George Floyd one year since his murder ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Former President Donald Trump addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference held in the Hyatt Regency on February 28, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. Begun in 1974, CPAC brings together conservative organizations, activists, and world leaders to discuss issues important to them. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Here's what reported grand jury in Trump case may look like NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 09: People walk past the Trump Tower as the impeachment trial of Donald Trump begins in Washington on February 09, 2021 in New York City. After listening to nearly four hours of legal arguments, the Senate has voted on Tuesday to move ahead with the impeachment trial of former President Trump. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Report: US companies may have benefited from forced labor of Uyghurs WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 20: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the conflict in the Middle East from Cross- Hall of the White House on May 20, 2021 in Washington, DC. Israel and Hamas announced that they would agree to a cease-fire, which will take into effect on Friday, following days of fighting that claimed more than 200 lives. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) SAN JOSE, CA - MAY 26: A view of the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard where a mass shooting occurred on May 26, 2021 in San Jose, California. A VTA employee opened fire at the yard, with preliminary reports indicating nine people dead including the gunman. (Photo by Philip Pacheco/Getty Images) A healthcare worker prepares to administer a Pfizer/BioNTEch coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccine at The Michener Institute, in Toronto, Ontario on December 14, 2020. - Ontario, Canada's most populous province and one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, had 1,940 new cases and 23 deaths on Monday. The province is expected to give its next doses to nursing home workers as a priority, according to media reports. (Photo by CARLOS OSORIO / POOL / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS OSORIO/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) 'Never seen levels like this': Union president on airline passenger misconduct Memorial Day weekend will bring rain and cool air for much of the East (CNN) — Scratch “build an underground lair” from your list of ways to elude Southern California’s Fontana Police Department. While serving a search warrant Thursday night at an alleged gang member’s Fontana home, officers uncovered a manhole. When they opened it, they found a ladder under it, police said. Down below was a cave with a secret shooting range and hideout. Inside, officers discovered a number of weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition, “including a 100-round drum for an AR-15 rife,” Fontana police said Friday on Facebook. The post featured a warning from the police, along with pictures of a sparse, unfinished underground space. “We are the champions at Hide n Seek and no manhole will help you,” it said. Interlocking rubber mats lined the ground in one area, with something resembling furniture pads or moving blankets fixed to walls, and a US flag hanging in one corner. Another area had a dirt ground and a wall lined with sandbags. Last night members of the Fontana PD SMASH (Gang) Unit, served a search warrant on a residence of a known gang member. ... Posted by City of Fontana Police Department on Friday, February 8, 2019 Fontana police said they arrested an unspecified number of suspects; they did not release their names or say what charges they face. The department left the impression it didn’t admire the handiwork. “Friendly message to anyone who wants to engage in illegal activity and be a member of a gang. We will never give up on keeping our community safe and free of violence,” its Facebook post reads. ” … If you hide we will find you. If you run you will go to jail tired. If you do crime in our city, we will hunt you in the pursuit of justice for our community.” The post included a parting shot on the value of hard work. “We strongly recommend that you put as much effort as you did in your underground cave, into becoming a productive member of society,” the post said. “You will thank us later for this advice.”<doc-sep>
A California police department discovered a secret underground shooting range belonging to a "known gang member", complete with numerous weapons and ammo. The Fontana Police Department posted pictures of the secret hideaway that they found Thursday night. Police said officers from the gang unit were serving a search warrant at the residence when they came across a manhole that led to the hideaway. The area also contained thousands of rounds of ammunition and weapons including a “100 round drum for an AR-15 rifle.” The evidence was confiscated and multiple suspects were booked, police said. Police did not say how many suspects were taken into custody or specify the gang. COP SON GIVES FATHER -- A FELLOW OFFICER -- A HEARTFELT SENDOFF ON LAST RADIO CALL BEFORE RETIREMENT In a press statement, police had a warning for those who wanted to be a gang member, while offering some advice. “We will never give up on keeping our community safe and free of violence,” the press statement read. “We are the champions at Hide n Seek and no manhole will help you. If you hide we will find you. If you run you will go to jail tired. If you do crime in our city, we will hunt you in the pursuit of justice for our community.” VIRGINIA STATE TROOPER DIES AFTER SUSPECT OPENED FIRE DURING RAID: COPS Police also suggested the gang members “put as much effort as you did in your underground cave, into becoming a productive member of society.” “You will thank us later for this advice,” police said.
Arizona head coach Adia Barnes is building her program by heavily recruiting overseas. Next season, Arizona will add five players from five different countries. That will bring the total to seven international players from six countries. Wyoming, the Wildcats’ next opponent in the WNIT, knows what it’s like to blend so many different cultures into a successful program. The Cowgirls come to Tucson with a roster featuring 16 players, 10 of whom have come from a total of six different countries to make their basketball homes in Laramie. The Cowgirls parlayed their diverse team into a successful Mountain West power, going 22-8 in the regular season including 13-5 in conference play. After dispatching their first three WNIT opponents, they come into the quarterfinals at 25-8. In the last round, Arizona faced a team that liked to shoot the three. Wyoming isn’t quite as attached to the 3-ball, but they also have some prolific perimeter shooters. The Cowgirls have four players who attempt at least three 3-point shots per game. Marta Gomez leads the quartet with 150 attempts on the year. She also leads in effectiveness, shooting 49 percent from outside the arc. Taylor Rusk has hit 33 percent of her 124 attempts for the season. Quinn Weidemann kicks in 43 percent on her 107 attempts, followed by Karla Erjavec hitting 33 percent of her 99 attempts on the season. Fortunately for the Wildcats, they spent last week preparing for a team that relies even more heavily on the three. Arizona defeated Idaho on Thursday despite the Vandals making 33 percent of their 3-point shots, going 10 for 30. They did it by winning the battle in the paint 36-16 and the turnover battle. The Cowgirls average 11.24 turnovers per game against teams far inferior to the one they will face on Sunday. According to Her Hoop Stats’ ratings, Wyoming faced only one team that was better than Arizona this season—South Dakota State—but they did beat that team. When compared head-to-head, Wyoming is the slightly better offensive team. The game isn’t played on one half of the court, though, and the Wildcats make up for that by being the far superior defensive team. Her Hoops Stats rates Arizona as the No. 36 defensive team, while the service has Wyoming at No. 91. Throughout the season, the Wildcats were typically able to use their superior defense to overcome whatever offensive shortcomings they had. They’ve only improved over the course of the year, so there’s little reason to believe they won’t be able to do it again as long as they limit the fouls they commit. The team will try to do that Sunday at 2 p.m. MST. The game will be live streamed at Arizona Live Stream.<doc-sep>The back of Arizona’s warm-up t-shirts read “#LeavingALegacy.” From the first meeting with the media this summer, Adia Barnes and her players have made that their calling card. It’s not just about today, this season. It’s about building for the future. The WNIT is part of that project. Three postseason games. Three victories. It hadn’t happened for Arizona women’s basketball since 1996 when they won the WNIT. Could they push it to four? The Wyoming Cowgirls stood in the way, but not for very long. Arizona dominated in a 67-45 victory in front of 7,717 fans at McKale Center. They held the Cowgirls to 31.4 percent shooting, including 16.7 percent from outside. “We look like we have a we’re-not-going-to-lose mentality,” Barnes said. “That’s the feeling I have from (the players).” Aari McDonald led all scorers with 25 points. She added six rebounds, four assists and a steal. Cate Reese had a strong third quarter when McDonald had to sit out with three fouls. Reese finished the day one rebound short of a double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds. Arizona rushed out to an 11-0 lead, shooting over 83 percent. Wyoming wasn’t able to break through and score until the 5:52 mark in the first quarter. By that time, Cowgirls’ starting forward Bailee Cotton already had two fouls. “Wyoming is a great team and they have great players,” McDonald said. “But we knew that one of their weaknesses was defense, guarding us one-on-one. And, so, we took advantage of that from the get-go.” On the other end of the court, Wyoming was stymied by Arizona’s defense, looking at a complete loss on the offensive end for the entire first half. After scoring just 10 points in the opening quarter, they put up only five in the second. By the time half-time rolled around, Arizona had built a 26-15 lead. The problem for the Wildcats was that the lead should have been bigger. After scoring 19 in the first quarter, Arizona struggled to put points on the board in the second. They, too, scored in single digits, adding just seven points in the second quarter. New challenges presented themselves after the half. When McDonald picked up her third foul early in the third quarter, someone else needed to step up. That someone was Reese, who had nine points and four rebounds in the third after scoring only four points in the first half. “Earlier in the year, we couldn’t play without Aari on the floor,” Barnes said. “So, now, different people are stepping up, and we’re playing so much better as a team. That’s what I’m proud about.” Wyoming picked up their own scoring coming out of the locker room, adding 14 points—only one fewer than they scored in the entire first half. Arizona was barely able to win the quarter 16-14. After the third quarter, the Cowgirls seemed to have lost what little fight they had. With 2:46 to go and a 63-37 lead, Barnes pulled her starters. “It’s a blessing to keep playing right now,” Tee Tee Starks said. “Everybody’s not playing right now, and we have the opportunity to. So, we don’t want to take this opportunity for granted. We want to come out and play our best basketball in these last few games that we’re able to play in this season.” The Wildcats will have their next opportunity when they host TCU in the WNIT semifinals on Wednesday, Apr. 3 at 6:30 p.m. MST. Postgame interviews Adia Barnes Here’s Adia Barnes after Arizona Women's Basketball’s win over Wyoming Posted by AZ Desert Swarm on Sunday, March 31, 2019 Aari McDonald and Tee Tee Starks<doc-sep>Adia Barnes challenged Arizona fans to crack the 7,000 attendance mark for Sunday’s Elite Eight game against Wyoming. They answered the call — and then some. The Wildcats drew 7,717 fans to McKale Center, their largest crowd since 2016. When that figure was announced over the loudspeaker during the third quarter, UA players smiled and freshman forward Cate Reese mouthed to her teammates “that’s a lot.” Arizona went on to beat the Cowgirls 67-45, using the crowd’s energy to race to an 11-0 start. The Wildcats will host TCU in the Final Four on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. MST, giving UA fans another chance to rally behind the women’s team as it continues its postseason run. More and more have been flocking to McKale Center since the start of the WNIT. Here are the figures from each game:<doc-sep>The Arizona women’s basketball team already had their plane tickets to Laramie, Wyoming booked Thursday when they received some good news in the final minute of their win vs. Idaho. Instead of playing Wyoming at Wyoming in the Elite Eight of the WNIT, Arizona received the right to host (Sunday, 2 p.m. MST). “I like that much better for a couple reasons,” said UA coach Adia Barnes. “It’s a hard trip. I don’t talk to the team about what’s ahead, but it was going to be leave (Friday), play on Saturday. That’s a quick turnaround and you have to go to Denver and bus. And that’s a really hard place to play.” The Wildcats don’t have to worry about that because the UA administration ponied up. The WNIT determines the host based on factors such as fan base, facility availability, tournament seed, and travel constraints. But the No. 1 determinant, according to a person within the program, is the host bid. “Our administration really supports this program and every way and (athletic director) Dave (Heeke) made an offer they couldn’t refuse,” Barnes said. “I like that. An offer you can’t say no to.” Barnes declined to give specifics about that offer because, well, she doesn’t know what it is. “If it’s something you can’t refuse, it’s a lot of money,” she said. “But that shows that they’re supporting and they believe in us in what we’re doing and they’re putting money into it. So they’re investing in us. And I think that’s a big thing. And now the city is, so it’s just great momentum, and I want us to feed off of that.” Barnes hoped to get 5,000 fans at Thursday’s WNIT game against Idaho, and she got 6,300. So now she is raising the bar to 7,000 for Sunday’s Elite Eight game against Wyoming, even auctioning off her husband, assistant coach Salvo Coppa, to reach that goal. Date night with Salvo if you buy 1000 tickets in the next 10 minutes and I will be the chapperone! — ADIA BARNES ⬇️ (@AdiaBarnes) March 30, 2019 “I’m gonna get greedy,” she quipped Thursday. “I think we can do it.” Why not? The Wildcats have drawn more and more fans to each WNIT game, even filling in the student section Thursday. Barnes sees the fan support as validation for her decision to return to her alma mater, though she admits she didn’t think the program would be garnering this much attention in just her third season at the helm. Remember, it was just last season when the Wildcats went 6-24. “I think that’s one of the special things about Tucson, everything is about U of A,” Barnes said. “For a woman’s basketball program, that’s important because it’s all about us. It’s not about the WNBA, it’s not about the NBA, it’s not about MLB, it’s about this school and what’s going on. And right now we’re the thing that’s going up. So I love that. I think that’s exciting and the rewarding part about that is we had 6,300 people, So that’s telling me people want to come out and support and they’re happy and they’re buying in.” It’s basketball worth investing in. The Wildcats have several milestones this season, the most notable of which is reaching the postseason for the first time since 2011. On top of that, this is the first time they have won more than two postseason games in a season since 1996. Barnes acknowledges the team’s run might have ended sooner if not for the raucous fan support. “The crowd, it ignited us,” Barnes said Thursday after the win vs. Idaho. “When we were flat and the basketball was getting a little bit ugly and we were letting them hit shots in the third quarter, the crowd got crazy, started chanting ‘Arizona’ and it makes us make plays. You feed off of it.”<doc-sep>
The Arizona Wildcats (22-13) are going to the WNIT Semifinals for the first time since 1996 as they stifled Wyoming (25-9) by a score of 67-45 in McKale Center on Sunday afternoon. With the win over Wyoming, Arizona has won 22 games for the first time since 2004 and drew the largest crowd since 2016 as 7,717 fans packed the stands at the McKale Center. Aari McDonald got back to her scoring ways as she scored a game-high 25 points to go along with six rebounds and four assists. Cate Reese was Arizona’s second double-figure scorer as she scored 13 points and grabbed nine boards. “Wyoming is a great team and they have great players,” McDonald said. “But we knew that one of their weaknesses was defense, guarding us one-on-one. And, so, we took advantage of that from the get-go.” Not a subscriber? Sign up now to get all the great information on the premium boards and all of the premium stories on WildcatAuthority.com! Click here to subscribe! Wyoming could never get anything going as the Wildcats forced the Cowgirls to shoot 31% from the field for a total of 45 points, their second lowest point total of the season. Coming into the game, Wyoming averaged 68 points on 46% shooting. On the other end of things, Arizona shot 47% from the field and owned the paint, out-rebounding Wyoming 36-29 while outscoring them 38-24 in the painted area. Arizona scored the first 11 points of the game and led 19-10 after the first quarter. Points were at a premium in the second quarter, but the Wildcats extended their lead to 26-15 heading into halftime. “Earlier in the year, we couldn’t play without Aari on the floor,” Arizona head coach Adia Barnes said. “So, now, different people are stepping up, and we’re playing so much better as a team. That’s what I’m proud about.” The third quarter was tightly contested, but Arizona was able to make push their lead to 42-29 heading into the fourth quarter. Arizona came out on fire in the fourth quarter, scoring a game-high 25 points on 70% shooting while holding Wyoming to 31% from the field in the fourth quarter. Next up for the Wildcats will be the WNIT Semifinals against TCU on Wednesday, April 3 at 6:30 p.m. MST in McKale Center. “It’s a blessing to keep playing right now,” Tee Tee Starks said. “Everybody’s not playing right now, and we have the opportunity to. So, we don’t want to take this opportunity for granted. We want to come out and play our best basketball in these last few games that we’re able to play in this season.” As Arizona moves forward, Barnes is happy about the current mindset of the Wildcats. “We look like we have a we’re-not-going-to-lose mentality,” Barnes said. “That’s the feeling I have from (the players).” *Arizona Athletics contributed to this report*
LEICESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 01: Roberto Firmino of Liverpool applauds fans after the Premier League match between Leicester City and Liverpool FC at The King Power Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) Roberto Firmino was given the all-clear after suffering an eye injury during Saturday’s 1-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur. The Brazilian striker was poked in the eye, seemingly inadvertently, by Jan Vertonghen with fifteen minutes to go in the contest. He was unable to continue and was subsequently substituted by Jordan Henderson. However, Firmino was discharged from a local hospital a few hours after the game, having been diagnosed with an eye abrasion. He will now travel back to Liverpool under the supervision of club doctor Andy Massey. Liverpool noted that their no. 9 “has not been ruled out” of Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, but one would think that Jürgen Klopp is unlikely to risk him if he is not at a 100 percent. If Firmino does not start, Klopp could choose to strengthen the midfield with Henderson and leave Sadio Mané and Mo Salah up top like in the closing moments of the victory against Tottenham. The likes of Daniel Sturridge or Xherdan Shaqiri could also be handed a rare start with an eye on Liverpool’s packed September schedule. The striker appears hopeful of returning to action soon. “It was just a scare,” he said on his Instagram account. “My eye is ok and so am I. Thank you for all the support and see you soon.” His wife Larissa also reassured everyone that he was fine, “Everything is okay with Roberto. He has already been examined and is returning home. Thank you for your concern.” Despite Firmino’s injury, referee Michael Oliver actually ruled the incident as a foul against him. This drew the ire of Reds supporters on social media, who lashed out at Oliver: So vertonghen fouled firmino, then punches him in the face, then dives, the handballs it and gets a free kick. Lovely stuff from Michael Oliver. Been awful all game — Elliot Beavis (@ElliotBeavis1) September 15, 2018 https://twitter.com/jbj/status/1040948124804628481 A gruesome picture of Firmino’s injury has also gone viral, with Vertonghen’s finger firmly entrenched in his right eye. https://twitter.com/SquawkaNews/status/1040971619085299712 Liverpool will need Firmino this week as they take on PSG in the Champions League group stage.<doc-sep>Roberto Firmino will be assessed after suffering an eye injury in Liverpool's 2-1 win at Tottenham on Saturday. Firmino scored Liverpool's second goal to make it 2-0 at Wembley after 54 minutes, but 15 minutes later he was brought down after a clash with Jan Vertonghen. The Brazil international was down receiving treatment for around two minutes, before being replaced by Jordan Henderson who had initially been set to come on for Naby Keita. Klopp, speaking to Sky Sports following the match, gave an update on the striker: "Bobby Firmino is not okay at the moment. We need to see how that will work. "Things are not too good at the moment. Life is never perfect." Firmino could be a doubt for Tuesday's visit of French champions Paris Saint-Germain in their opening Champions League group game of the campaign. Georginio Wijnaldum's opener and Firmino's second league goal of the season were enough to stave off a late Tottenham comeback and ensure they continued their 100 per cent start to the season.<doc-sep>Liverpool supporters were holding their breath earlier today when star Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino was subbed off after Jan Vertonghen gouged his eye in the second half of Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham. “I’m not sure, but maybe we have an injury with Roberto,” Reds’ boss Jurgen Klopp said of the injury after the match. “I don’t know exactly at the moment, but it’s something with his eye. It was a free-kick for Tottenham, right? Funny. I haven’t seen it back, I only saw the situation from 60 yards away so I’ve no clue what exactly happened. But it’s something with the eye and for sure at the moment it’s not comfortable for him. But we will see.” (NSFW Disclaimer: The injury initially seemed pretty gruesome, if you wish to see what it looked like, feel free to look here.) A few hours after the final whistle, Firmino posted to his personal Instagram that the injury was, “just a scare, my eye is ok and so am I.” So, the Reds can exhale ahead of their Champions’ League clash with Paris St. Germain on Tuesday night, when Kylian Mbappe and Neymar come to Anfield. And according to a statement from the club released shortly after Firmino’s own, the striker underwent an exam at the hospital which “confirmed an abrasion of the eye” that would leave “no lasting damage.”<doc-sep>
Klopp addresses Roberto Firmino injury following Spurs clash In the second half of Liverpool’s 2-1 win Tottenham, Firmino was caught in his left eye by a stray finger from Vertonghen. Firmino was forced to come off the pitch and manager Jurgen Klopp said he was unsure about the severity of the problem. But Liverpool have this evening revealed Firmino visited a hospital for scans on his eye. The statement said: “Roberto Firmino was discharged from a London hospital this afternoon after receiving good news on the eye injury he sustained during Liverpool's 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur. “The forward was sent for assessment having been forced from the field in the second half of the Reds’ Wembley victory. “A hospital examination confirmed an abrasion of the eye, but there will be no lasting damage. “The issue will be monitored and treated by Liverpool’s medical staff at Melwood before any decision is made on whether Firmino will be able to figure in Tuesday evening’s Champions League encounter with Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. At this stage, the No.9 has not been ruled out. “Firmino travelled back to Merseyside separately from his teammates with club doctor Andy Massey following the positive assessment. Roberto Firmino receives a finger in the eye from Jan Vertonghen “The players and staff onboard the club flight back to Liverpool sent the Brazilian a video wishing him well, recorded on the team plane.” The positive news about Firmino was in contrast to Klopp’s comments after the match when he revealed the Brazilian was in discomfort following the incident. “I’m not sure, but there may be an injury with Roberto, we don’t know exactly in the moment,” the Liverpool boss told the club’s official website. Pochettino reflects on 2-1 loss following Liverpool clash Roberto Firmino was forced off due to the eye injury
After Marcus Peters went down with what appeared to be a non-contact, lower leg injury in the first half of Sunday’s win over the Chargers, many speculated he hurt his Achilles. The training staff examined his ankle and Achilles area initially before taking him to the locker room on a cart. Fortunately, tests showed no damage to his Achilles, and although Sean McVay called it an ankle injury after the game, Peters suffered what is believed to be a calf strain. He’ll miss two to four weeks, according to Ian Rapoport. #Rams CB Marcus Peters is believed to have suffered a calf strain that could put him out for 2-4 weeks, I’m told. His MRI to confirm is this morning, but the initial tests show no structural damage. — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 24, 2018 As Rapoport states, an MRI on Monday will confirm the diagnosis, but it appears the Rams have dodged at least one bullet with this injury. Hopefully Aqib Talib will get equally good news after exiting Sunday’s game with an ankle injury of his own.<doc-sep>The Los Angeles Rams looked mighty impressive in the 35-23 win today over the Los Angeles Chargers, though it came at a toll. CB Marcus Peters, CB Aqib Talib and KR/PR JoJo Natson all suffered injuries, though the Peters injury looked the most serious as he had to be carted to the locker room. Thankfully though coming from a report from Pro Football Talk, the tests on Peters’ Achilles came back negative: Per source tests on CB Marcus Peters Achilles were negative. Calf strain. MRI coming. — ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) September 23, 2018 This would have been the most severe of the potential injuries between the Achilles, calf or ankle. We’ll have to see how things test out especially into tomorrow when we’ll get more clarity from Head Coach Sean McVay on the injury and the MRI results at the media availability. Things look rough right now though with the Minnesota Vikings coming to town in a short week for Thursday Night Football. I’d go ahead and just start from the assumption that Peters will be unavailable and work backwards from there. With the game on Thursday, we’ll get injury reports tomorrow, Tuesday and Wednesday.<doc-sep>Here is a list of players that were injured during Week 3 in the NFL. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, 49ers - Knee (Out) Garoppolo exited Sunday's contest against the Chiefs after suffering a left knee injury during the fourth. The 49ers fear he may have torn his ACL. Marcus Peters, CB, Rams - Ankle (Out) Peters suffered an ankle injury and was ruled out to return against the Chargers. Dominique Easley, DL, Rams - Knee (Questionable) The Rams ruled Easley questionable to return after sustaining a knee injury vs. the Chargers. Blaine Gabbert, QB, Titans - Concussion (Out) The Titans announced Gabbert was being evaluated for a concussion in the first quarter against the Jaguars. Marcus Mariota, who was active Sunday, entered the contest despite dealing with an elbow injury. Evan Engram, TE, Giants - Knee (Out) The Giants determined Engram would not return after suffering a knee injury in the first half vs. the Texans. Muhammad Wilkerson, DL, Packers - Ankle (Out) Wilkerson was ruled out by the Packers after being carted from Sunday's contest against Washington. Tramaine Brock, CB, Broncos - Groin (Out) The Broncos ruled Brock out for the remainder of Sunday's contest against the Ravens after suffering a groin injury during the first half. Richard Sherman, CB, 49ers - Calf (Questionable) The Niners announced Sherman was questionable to return vs. the Chiefs on Sunday. Matt Breida, RB, 49ers - Knee (returned) Breida said he hyperextended his knee, but was able to return to Sunday's game. Adoree' Jackson, CB, Titans - Concussion (Out) Jackson was ruled out after suffering a concussion against the Jaguars. Rodney McLeod, S, Eagles - Knee (Questionable) The Eagles ruled McLeod questionable to return vs. the Colts due to a knee injury he suffered in the third quarter. A.J. Green, WR, Bengals - Groin (Probable) The Bengals announced Green suffered a groin injury against the Panthers. He did not return to the game, however. Bryan Bulaga, OT, Packers - Back (Out) Bulaga was ruled questionable to return after suffering a back injury against Washington. He was later downgraded to out. Calais Campbell, DL, Jaguars - Ankle (Questionable) Campbell was declared questionable during the second half against the Titans. Trent Murphy, DL, Bills - Ankle (Questionable) Murphy was ruled questionable to return vs. the Vikings after sustaining an ankle injury. Trae Waynes, CB, Vikings - Ankle (Doubtful) The Vikings announced Waynes was doubtful to return during the first quarter. Aaron Colvin, CB, Texans - Chest (Questionable) The Titans ruled Colvin questionable to return vs. the Giants after suffering the injury in the first half. Chris Conlely, WR, Chiefs - Right Ankle (Questionable) -- Returned to the game. The Chiefs ruled Conley questionable to return after suffering a right ankle injury during the first half against the 49ers. He returned during the second quarter. Morgan Moses, OT, Redskins - Concussion (Out) The Redskins said Moses was being evaluated for a concussion in the first half against the Packers. He was later downgraded to out. Donald Penn, OT, Raiders - Concussion (Out) The Raiders announced Penn was placed under concussion protocol in the second quarter vs. the Dolphins. He was later ruled out. Drew Kaser, P, Chargers - Leg (Questionable) Kaser was injured when the Rams blocked a punt against the Chargers. Bruce Ellington, WR, Texans - Hamstring (Questionable) The Texans ruled Ellington questionable to return after sustaining an injury in the first quarter against the Giants. Senio Kelemete, OG, Texans - Knee (Out) The Texans ruled Kelemete out during the first half against the Giants. Tavarius Moore, DB, 49ers - Wrist (Questionable) The Niners ruled Moore questionable to return to Sunday's game vs. Chiefs after sustaining the injury in the first half. Antonio Hamilton, CB, Giants - Groin (Out) The Giants ruled Hamilton out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Texans after suffering a groin injury in the first quarter. Rex Burkhead, RB, Giants - Neck Burkhead is being evaluated for a neck injury.<doc-sep>The Los Angeles Rams will reportedly be without starting cornerback Aqib Talib for about a month after he suffered a high ankle sprain against the Chargers on Sunday. That’s the diagnosis from ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who provided this update Monday. Rams’ CB Aqib Talib suffered a high-ankle sprain Sunday that will sideline him at least one month, and Rams CB Marcus Peters strained his calf and is considered day to day, though with a Thursday night game this week, it will be tough for him to play, per league sources. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 24, 2018 Talib left the game in the second half after his leg was rolled up on by a member of the Chargers. He was able to walk off the field but was taken to the locker room shortly thereafter. High ankle sprains are the worst variety of that injury and can really limit a player, especially one whose job is predicated on making quick reactions in coverage. As for Peters, Schefter’s report differs from the one Ian Rapoport gave earlier Monday. Rapoport said Peters will be out two to four weeks with a calf strain, while Schefter is saying he’s considered day-to-day. Sean McVay should provide some clarity, but it would be huge if Peters were able to miss just one game.<doc-sep>
Jae C. Hong/Associated Press Los Angeles Rams cornerback Marcus Peters suffered a calf strain in Sunday's 35-23 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Monday. According to Rapoport, the injury will leave Peters out for two to four weeks. The two-time Pro Bowler is still awaiting the full results from an MRI to determine the extent of the injury, but initial tests suggest there is no structural damage. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Peters may come back sooner, labeling him "day to day," but is unlikely to play on Thursday against the Minnesota Vikings on a short week. Rams fans likely expected the worst when they saw Peters getting carted back to the locker room: Pro Football Talk reported after the game that tests cleared Peters of a potential Achilles injury, which provided some good news. Losing Peters for up to four weeks isn't ideal for Los Angeles, but the team appears to have dodged a more serious injury. The 25-year-old is already making an impression on the Rams secondary in his first season in Los Angeles. He had a pick-six in the Rams' 33-13 Week 1 win over the Oakland Raiders and has helped the team allow just 199.3 yards per game through the air. Assuming Peters is out for the full four weeks, his return would coincide with what is setting up to be a stern test of Los Angeles' pass defense. Video Play Button Videos you might like Starting in Week 8, the Rams face off with Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, Russell Wilson and Patrick Mahomes before their Week 12 bye. Having one of their best cornerbacks healthy will be important during that difficult four-week stretch.
Forty photographs depicting the aftermath of the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906 — which occurred 113 years ago Thursday — went up for auction on the anniversary of the devastating quake and fire. The silver prints depict the destroyed buildings, torn up streets, contorted rails, plumes of smoke and teetering homes left after the quake. The collection of photographs was consigned by a dealer who found them as a group. They were probably compiled shortly after the earthquake, said a spokeswoman for Swann Auction Galleries. The 40 prints are by multiple photographers. Some are captioned in the film negative and others were written on with pen or pencil. Advertisement The auction house website showed the winning bid was $2,200 ($2,860 with buyer’s premium). [email protected] @jpanzar<doc-sep>By Aron Mirwald, M.Sc., Ross S. Stein, Ph.D., and Volkan Sevilgen, M.Sc., Temblor Citation: Mirwald, A., Stein, R.S., Sevilgen, V. (2019), The 5 worst (and 5 best) places to live in the S.F. Bay Area if the great 1906 earthquake recurred today, Temblor, http://doi.org/10.32858/temblor.019 The 1906 San Francisco earthquake was one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history. Despite more than a century of improvement in structural design and construction, if the same earthquake were to strike again, the shaking damage likely would be even greater. That is largely because of the 20-fold increase in population, a significant portion of which occupies homes and offices built on Gold Rush and other artificial fill. While exact repeats of earthquakes are rare, large shocks loom in the Bay area’s future and so knowing your risk will enable you to take action now to reduce it. Few people know what happens after an earthquake strikes a city, and even less are prepared for it. I witnessed this in Mexico City, one and a half years ago, when the 2017 M=7.1 Puebla earthquake killed over 369 people and threw 57 buildings down. There was a severe shortage of first aid kits to treat the injured. Thousands of people were wounded, and the pharmacies were short of supply of the much-needed disinfectant and bandages. The S.F. Bay Area shares elements of Mexico City. Everyone knows—or should know—that there is the risk of an earthquake lurking, but it seems too far away to be worried about. So, let’s use the anniversary of the Great 1906 San Francisco earthquake as a way to remind ourselves of the disastrous consequences of such an event, so that it does not befall our families. Destruction in San Francisco by the earthquake and subsequent fire. Source: USGS (https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/1996/fs094-96/) The Great San Francisco Earthquake Due to the chaos and confusion that emerged after the disaster, it is not possible to precisely know how many people died, but estimates range from 700 to 3,000 fatalities (Aagaard and Beroza, 2008). Additionally, the earthquake caused a property loss of over $10 Billion dollars and left ~220,000 homeless (using the present value of the dollar; Ager et. al., 2019). An investigation published this month argues that the Great 1906 San Francisco earthquake affected the economy of cities in the S.F. Bay Area for four decades after the shock (Ager et. al., 2019). Jack London, the famed author of ‘The Call of the Wild,’ lived in Oakland, and wrote about the earthquake in the 5 May 1906 issue of ‘Collier’s Weekly’: “San Francisco is gone. Nothing remains of it but memories and a fringe of dwelling-houses on its outskirts. Its industrial section is wiped out. Its business section is wiped out. Its social and residential section is wiped out. The factories and warehouses, the great stores and newspaper buildings, the hotels and the palaces of the nabobs, are all gone. Remains only the fringe of dwelling houses on the outskirts of what was once San Francisco. On Wednesday morning at a quarter past five came the earthquake. A minute later the flames were leaping upward. In a dozen different quarters south of Market Street, in the working-class ghetto, and in the factories, fires started. There was no opposing the flames. There was no organization, no communication. All the cunning adjustments of a twentieth-century city had been smashed by the earthquake. This train was overturned at Point Reyes by the 1906 earthquake, which requires at least 0.4 g of acceleration, evidence of very severe shaking. Source: Veeraraghavan et. al. (2019) Worst places to live in the Bay area if the 1906 quake were to recur Since 1906, the population in the S.F. Bay Area has increased from 400,000 to 7.7 million people, and property values have risen drastically. The good news—or at least more hopeful news—is that the fire that consumed most of San Francisco is less likely to erupt unchecked today, thanks to greater fire-fighting capacity, technology, and cisterns. But, the damage still can be expected to surpass the one of 1906: Using the intensities reported in 1906, the economic damage would be of the order of $90 Billion with 400,000 people at least temporarily losing their homes, affecting about 160,000 households (Kircher et. al., 2006). Estimated intensities of the 1906 earthquake. The scale is a Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, in which ‘X’ corresponds to extreme destruction, and ‘I’ to not felt. Source: Aagaard et. al. (2008) In order to make it easier to visualize where this would happen, we used the data shown in the map from Aagaard et. al. (2008)above to compute which cities with a population greater than 100,000 in the Bay area would be most (and least) affected. We used the Peak Ground Velocity, which is closely related to the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale depicted, and is considered a good predictor of the damage to homes and medium-rise buildings. Our Top 5 List 5 Worst Cities in a 1906 quake 5 Best Cities in a 1906 quake Peak Ground Velocity (m/s) Peak Ground Velocity (m/s) Daly City 1.22 Fairfield 0.00 San Francisco 0.47 Antioch 0.00 Santa Rosa 0.43 Hayward 0.13 Sunnyvale 0.42 Fremont 0.18 San Jose 0.37 Oakland 0.24 To give a sense of the magnitude of these numbers: 0.5 m/s is strong enough to turn over a train (Veeraraghavan et. al., 2019). While it’s no surprise that San Francisco is on the list of the worst cities, few people realize that Daly City, which straddles the fault in a landslide-ridden area west of the City, towers above S.F. in its vulnerability. In addition, San Francisco is almost in a dead heat with Santa Rosa and Sunnyvale, with San José not far behind. The best cities to live in were the 1906 quake to repeat lie in the East Bay, farther from the San Andreas Fault, on which the 1906 earthquake struck. However, these East Bay cities are vulnerable to earthquakes on the Hayward Fault, which is considered to have the highest probability of suffering a Magnitude ~7 shock in the next 30 or so years (Field et. al., 2019). Topping that list are Fairfield, Antioch and Hayward. Continually Grinding Plates: No end of Earthquakes in Sight This last observation is important: The San Andreas Fault is not the only fault that can render produce deadly earthquakes. At California’s coast, the Pacific Plate is grinding past the North American Plate. The movement between the two plates is accommodated through a set of faults, including the San Andreas. The rate of deformation between the plates is around 5 cm (2 in) per year (Aagaard and Beroza, 2008). Unfortunately, this is bad news for the habitants of the S.F. Bay Area. At the present, scientists estimate that the S.F. Bay Region has a deficit of 4 meters (13’) in slip (Schwartz et. al., 2014), which is about the mean displacement that occurred on the San Andreas Fault 1906. In other words, a quake with 13’ of slip would catch it up. The most recent Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF3) estimates that there is a 33% chance that a M>6.7 earthquake will strike on the northern part of the San Andreas Fault, and 53% on the southern part (Field et. al., 2015). A recent investigation of earthquakes in the last millennium found that California is currently in an unusually long period of ‘seismic sleep’ (Biasi et. al., 2019). The scientists point out that the absence of large earthquakes in the last century is exceptional compared to the mean rates observed in the pre-historic record. At best, this shows us that we still have a lot to learn. At worst, it means that the slip deficit is both large and growing, and so we should prepare for large earthquakes now. A fence displaced in a right-lateral sense during the 1906 earthquake (whichever side you are on, the other has been shifted to the right). Source: Aagaard and Beroza (2008) Better Safe than Sorry How should we prepare for an earthquake? Here are four actions you can take today to be safer: Make your house earthquake resilient. If you are a homeowner, consider retrofitting. Luckily, seismic retrofit generally roughly halves the likely damage for most older wood frame homes (Retrofitters). Make sure that there is nothing in your house that can fall and injure you. Are the shelves fixed to the wall? Could anything in your house fall and injure somebody in case of strong shaking? You can engage quake prep consultant to visit your home and help you make these improvements for a modest cost. (Quake Prep providers). Insure your home. Even if your house remains standing, it may be too damaged to live in. Dealing with the chaos and losses after an earthquake will be hard. But you can at least remove the worry of being homeless. (Insurance agents, Jumpstart insurance) Prepare for the time after the earthquake. Be sure to have enough disinfectant and bandages. Prepare for a possible food shortage (canned food) and a period of no power supply. In the case of the earthquake that struck Mexico City, many lives could have been saved this way. In the case of the S.F. Bay Area, hopefully these measures will be useless for a long time. But, we can’t be sure of that, and leaving this important issue to fate would be reckless. References Aagaard, B. T., & Beroza, G. C. (2008). The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake a Century Later: Introduction to the Special Section. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 98(2), 817-822 Aagaard, B. T., Brocher, T. M., Dolenc, D., Dreger, D., Graves, R. W., Harmsen, S., … & Petersson, N. A. (2008). Ground-motion modeling of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, part II: Ground-motion estimates for the 1906 earthquake and scenario events. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 98(2), 1012-1046. Ager, P., Eriksson, K., Hansen, C. W., & Lønstrup, L. (2019). How the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake Shaped Economic Activity in the American West (No. w25727). National Bureau of Economic Research. Biasi, G. P., & Scharer, K. M. (2019). The Current Unlikely Earthquake Hiatus at California’s Transform Boundary Paleoseismic Sites. Seismological Research Letters. Field, E. H., Biasi, G. P., Bird, P., Dawson, T. E., Felzer, K. R., Jackson, D. D., … & Milner, K. R. (2015). Long‐term time‐dependent probabilities for the third Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF3). Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 105(2A), 511-543. Kircher, C. A., Seligson, H. A., Bouabid, J., & Morrow, G. C. (2006). When the big one strikes again—Estimated losses due to a repeat of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Earthquake Spectra, 22(S2), 297-339. Schwartz, D. P., Lienkaemper, J. J., Hecker, S., Kelson, K. I., Fumal, T. E., Baldwin, J. N., … & Niemi, T. M. (2014). The earthquake cycle in the San Francisco Bay region: AD 1600–2012. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, 104(3), 1299-1328. Veeraraghavan, S., Heaton, T. H., & Krishnan, S. (2019). Lower Bounds on Ground Motion at Point Reyes during the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake from Train Toppling Analysis. Seismological Research Letters, 90(2A), 683-691. http://temblor.net/earthquake-insights/the-lesson-to-be-learned-from-mexico-citys-building-collapses-5405/ http://temblor.net/earthquake-insights/mexico-city-building-collapses-experts-on-drop-cover-and-hold-on-or-run-5340/ https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/1996/fs094-96/<doc-sep>
The ground shook violently and woke up the Bay Area on April 18, 1906, but 113 years later, few of the city’s residents stirred for Thursday’s annual commemoration of the great earthquake at Lotta’s Fountain. City officials and residents on Thursday gathered just before 5:12 a.m. at the base of the cast iron monument to sound sirens and hold a moment of silence for the 3,000 souls lost in the 7.9 shaker, which also destroyed 60,000 buildings and left 250,000 people homeless. In the hours before dawn, nearly 100 attendees arrived in front of the golden fountain at the intersection of Market, Geary and Kearny streets, which was illuminated by spotlights and decked with a colorful floral wreath. No jolts were felt Thursday morning as current Mayor London Breed and city officials sounded the ceremonial alarm in commemoration of the 1906 earthquake. Now Playing: Lotta's Fountain Quake Commemoration Video: San Francisco Chronicle Also in attendance were San Francisco Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White, Police Chief Bill Scott, Sheriff Vicki Hennessy and former Mayor Willie Brown. The ceremony honored the retiring fire chief and Donna Ewald-Huggins, who for years has helped organize the celebration in costume as Lillie Coit. Bob Sarlatte, the master of ceremonies, read a history and timeline of the catastrophic quake and fires. Elevated on a black platform, high above a mix of history buffs clad in period pieces and shivering city natives donning hoodies and jeans, Sarlatte and Breed reminded residents to be vigilant about earthquake safety. “It’s not a matter of if, but when,” said Breed, who in her first commemoration as mayor was dressed in an emerald dress and black velvet coat of early 20th-century fashion. In 1906, San Franciscans gathered at the fountain following the quake to look for survivors, said Countess Lola Montez, also known as Drag Me Along tour guide Rick Shelton. Shelton has attended the commemoration for years dressed as the late entertainer, who taught 19th century actress Lotta Crabtree how to dance. Crabtree commissioned the fountain for the city in 1875. “I’m very proud of Lotta,” Shelton said. “She became the darling of San Francisco.” Shelton also noted the late Mayor Ed Lee’s contributions to the fountain. “Ed Lee got the fountain operational,” Shelton said, gesturing with white gloves at the gilded monument. The countess gathered her skirts fruitlessly, tulle spilling out into the aisle of a vintage streetcar, which took attendees to the fabled golden fire hydrant that saved the Mission District during the fires. Vipul Gupta, who has lived in the Bay Area for 23 years, made the 40-plus mile trek from Los Altos to San Francisco for the commemoration. He crashed at a friend’s house to make sure he was able to attend the opening ceremony at 4:45 a.m. As a hush fell over the crowd during a moment of silence — punctuated by the wail of mournful sirens — the startup employee and tour-guide-in-training basked in the moment. “When we had that moment of silence, I felt for a moment that I was part of San Francisco history,” he said. Aboard the streetcar to Dolores Park, natives soon turned into tourists as they gawked at the car’s varnished mahogany accents and looked out the glass windows. Gupta leaned against its metal walls and gazed at the wall explaining the vintage streetcar’s history as it chugged along to the golden fire hydrant. “It’s a privilege to sit in here,” Gupta said. “That streetcar got here, but I have to say, it’s slightly delayed,” Hayes-White ribbed Muni director Ed Reiskin, as he approached the hydrant with a canister of golden spray paint. Officials gild the hydrant every year as a testament to its importance in saving historic San Francisco. The last survivor of the 1906 earthquake died in 2016. San Francisco residents and city officials said they would return to the fountain next year to commemorate another anniversary of the fateful temblor. Gwendolyn Wu is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: gwendolyn.wu@ sfchronicle.com Twitter: @gwendolynawu
Half-game, half-meme "Fortnite" is getting a new addition, as the newest update will introduce customizable World Cup skins. Players of the Battle Royale-style game will be able to wear their favorite team's kits, down to the number. "Fortnite" tends to stay up with current events, so it isn't surprising they're adding an update with the biggest tournament in the world. It's unknown as of now which teams got skins, or even if all of them did. Licensing could play a part in that. The skins aren't all that they've added, either. Users also noticed that a landing spot was replaced with a World Cup stadium, allowing players to "take the field" so to speak. There's even a juggling emote. "Fortnite" is known to keep its finger on the pulse of pop culture. It utterly broke the game with a Thanos update when "Infinity War" came out. So it would have been shocking if they would have just let the World Cup pass by. Don't be surprised to see someone have a "Fortnite" celebration at this year's World Cup. The love between the game and the sport is clearly mutual.<doc-sep>Epic Games The World Cup kicked off this week, and if you were wondering whether Fortnite was going to get in on the action, wonder no more! The company's strategy of monetizing its free-to-play battle royale game by enticing you to splash out on skins, emotes and dances has already paid off fabulously for its developer Epic Games, so it's inevitable it would get in on the world's biggest sporting event. To celebrate the World Cup, Epic has dropped a huge stadium on the game's map, added six themed skins with jerseys for both men and women characters, and added new weekly challenges to score goals on any of the island's many soccer fields. Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET To root for your favorite team, you can buy one of the six soccer skins, then you can edit the style to represent any country you want. You can also change the number on your jersey to mirror your favorite player. There are soccer themed items, too, like a glider with with a soccer ball design and pick axes with a golden boot or a Vuvuzela (those irritating plastic horns). GIF by Jason Parker/CNET Each of the soccer player skins will cost you 1,200 VBucks, which works out to about $12, £9.60 or AU$18. The Glider, Vuvuzela and soccer boot pick axes will run you 500 VBucks ($5), while the red card emote is only 200 VBucks ($2). E3 2018 coverage at GameSpot: Wall-to-wall coverage of the show from our sister site, GameSpot. E3 2018 coverage at Giant Bomb: More commentary and news from E3, from our colleagues at Giant Bomb.<doc-sep>Fortnite Football: All three football pitch locations REVEALED FREE for the biggest new releases, reviews and tech hacks SUBSCRIBE Invalid email Sign up forfor the biggest new releases, reviews and tech hacks When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Fortnite fans are well into the World Cup mood this week as they battle their way through 100 enemies dressed as their favourite football players. The World Cup 2018 kicked off yesterday afternoon as Russia demolished Saudia Arabia in a 5-0 drubbing, but Fortnite fans were honouring the global football tournament in their own way. Epic Games released several World Cup-themed skins this week, allowing players to customise their look and change their shirt number and country. The skins arrive in time for several World Cup-related content inclusions from Epic Games, including three large football stadiums in the placid nth map to help players complete the Week 7 challenges. How do you change the number and country on your World Cup skin? Epic Games has previously added customisable skins to the game before, with players able to change certain aspects of the Carbide and Omega skins and the newly introduced Visitor skin. To get the Russia World Cup skins, players need to head over to the store and purchase the skins they want with V-Bucks. There are six different World Cup skins to chose from, three male and three female. All 6 Fortnite World Cup skins are relatively similar, changing only slightly in colour and pattern. Pick your favourite and head over to the locker page and select ‘Outfits’. Fortnite skins: How to change number and country on your World Cup skin Fortnite update 4.4: Leaked skins reveal World Cup outfits for Battle Royale Sun, June 10, 2018 Fortnite update 4.4 files have revealed leaked World Cup Battle Royale skins. Here are the outfits you can get as well as back bling and axes Play slideshow TWITTER TWO EPIC BUDDIES 1 of 29 Fortnite update 4.4 leaked skins, back bling and axes Scroll down to the World Cup skin in your Outfits collection and a new icon will appear saying “Edit Style”. This new menu will allow you to change certain aspects of the skin, making it personal and unique to you. All 32 nations taking part in the Russia World Cup 2018 will be available for players to chose from, changing the badge of the football shirt. Epic Games have not secured rights to represent the official FIFA football jersey, but players can cosplay as their favourite players from the favourite nations in the World Cup. One addition to the World Cup nations has Fortnite registered as a country, allowing players to represent the game on their World Cup shirt. On top of the nation, players can also change the number shown on the back of the football shirt to transform your character into your favourite player. There are six versions of the Fortnite World Cup skins Season 4, Week 7 challenges Epic Games have added several World Cup-themed additions to Fortnite, including three new stadiums that will help players complete one of the challenges from Week 7. Across the map, three massive football stadiums have been dropped, letting players have a quick game of football before ruthlessly murdering each other to survive. Here are all the football pitch locations in Fortnite: • A giant stadium that Epic just added into the game north of Pleasant Park. • In Pleasant Park itself, towards the southern side. • Aan indoor field, in a large-ish unnamed area just west of Tilted Towers. • There's a ball in the parking lot of the container depot north of Retail Row. Two containers serve as the goal. • One of the fields in the northeast of Fatal Fields has been converted into a soccer pitch • Beneath the projector at Risky Reels • In the parking lot of Flush Factory, with two toilets serving as the goal. A map of all the Fortnite football pitch locations<doc-sep>
Fortnite Football: All three football pitch locations REVEALED World Cup mania reaches fever-pitch today as Epic Games adds football skins to Fortnite in time for the first game of the tournament today. Fortnite players can collect the World Cup skins which can be customised to the players liking. The new skins have been launched at the same time as several massive stadiums are dropped into the Fortnite map. The Week 7 challenges require players to score goals in five of the maps soccer/football fields, giving gamers the chance to score a World Cup goal in full football kit in Fortnite. How will the World Cup skins work and what do they look like? Epic Games have added World Cup skins to the game in honour of the global football tournaments starting off today, with Russia taking on Saudi Arabia. The skins are completely customisable, with players able to change the kit numbers and country represented from the 32 nations involved in the tournament. The v4.4 update gave players the ability to create and customise their characters as much as they want, editing looks and colour schemes to make them fully unique and individual. The same principle will be applied to the World Cup skins, with players clicking the ‘Edit Style’ option underneath the skin to change its appearance. All 32 nations from the World Cup 2018 tournament will be available to players upon unlocking the skin, with numbers, colours and badges all interchangeable from the same skin. Fortnite skins: How will the World Cup skins work in Fortnite? What does it look like? Fortnite update 4.4: Leaked skins reveal World Cup outfits for Battle Royale Sun, June 10, 2018 Fortnite update 4.4 files have revealed leaked World Cup Battle Royale skins. Here are the outfits you can get as well as back bling and axes Play slideshow TWITTER TWO EPIC BUDDIES 1 of 29 Fortnite update 4.4 leaked skins, back bling and axes Fortnite World Cup skins Fortnite Week 7 challenges Today also marks the start of the new weekly challenges for Fortnite players, with Week 7 kicking off a World Cup-themed set of tasks. Here is the list of Season 4 Week 7 challenges for Fortnite: • Deal damage with a pickaxe to opponents (250) • Search Chests in Risky Reels (7) • Consume Hop Rocks, Apples, or Mushrooms (20) • Score a goal on different pitches (5) • Follow the treasure map found in Pleasant Park (1) (HARD) • Assault Rifle Eliminations (5) (HARD) • Eliminate opponents in Shifty Shafts (3) (HARD) Fortnite World Cup skins Locations for the soccer pitches to complete the Week 7 challenge
A wildfire that has been burning since Thursday on Winter Hill in Lancashire is now being treated as a ‘major incident’ after it converged with another wildfire on nearby Scout Road near Bolton. More than 80 firefighters from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service who have been fighting the blaze over the past three days made a tactical withdrawal from the site on Saturday afternoon. They were not allowed up onto the moor while helicopters and drones assessed the site. However, some firefighters from the Greater Manchester Fire Service continued to fight the blaze on Scout Moor. Lancashire Fire tweeted on Saturday morning: “The fire on Winter Hill has now merged with the fire @manchesterfire were fighting on Scout Moor. “We still have 10 fire engines and the fire engines from Manchester at the scene. We advise members of the public to keep clear of the areas for their own safety.” UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 21st May 2021 A family buffeted by the wind whilst crossing the the Millennium Bridge in London, with wind and rain forecast to ravage the UK on the first Friday that people have been allowed to meet in large groups outside in England PA UK news in pictures 20 May 2021 Devon And Cornwall Police Demonstrate Their Skills For Policing The G7 Summit Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 May 2021 An employee stands before a costume for the Queen of Hearts by Bob Crowley on display at the Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London PA UK news in pictures 17 May 2021 Passengers prepare to board an easyJet flight to Faro, Portugal, at Gatwick Airport after the ban on international leisure travel for people in England was lifted following the further easing of lockdown restrictions in England PA UK news in pictures 16 May 2021 Emergency workers at the scene of a suspected gas explosion, in which a young child was killed and two people were seriously injured, on Mallowdale Ave Heysham which caused 2 houses to collapse and badly damaged another PA UK news in pictures 15 May 2021 Pro-Palestinian activists and supporters let off smoke flares, wave flags and carry placards during a demonstration in support of the Palestinian cause as violence escalates in the ongoing conflict with Israel, in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 14 May 2021 Member of staffs tighten screws and paint a Marlin skeleton, before it goes on display at the Natural History Museum in London, as the museum prepares to reopen to the public on 17 May, following the further easing of lockdown restrictions in England PA UK news in pictures 13 May 2021 A worshipper at the Baitul Futuh Mosque in Mordon, south London, ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The celebration marks the end of the Muslim month of fasting, called Ramadan. PA UK news in pictures 12 May 2021 A couple have wedding photos taken in Westminster, London Getty UK news in pictures 11 May 2021 The sun rises on Coquet Island, off Amble on the Northumberland coast, where as many as 35000 seabirds cram onto this tiny island to breed PA UK news in pictures 10 May 2021 Newly elected for a second term Mayor of London Sadiq Khan during his signing in ceremony at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre on London’s Southbank PA UK news in pictures 9 May 2021 People mill around St. Michael's tower on top of Glastonbury Tor as it is seen through blooming yellow rapeseed on a day of mixed weather in Glastonbury, Somerset PA UK news in pictures 8 May 2021 Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford elbow bumps newly elected MS Labour candidates Elizabeth Buffy Williams, Rhondda, left, and Sarah Murphy, Bridgend & Porthcawl Labour, right, as they meet in Porthcawl, Wales PA UK news in pictures 6 May 2021 A group of five Sisters from Carmelite Monastery in Dysart cast their vote in the Scottish Parliamentary election at Dysart Community Hall, West Port, Dysart PA UK news in pictures 5 May 2021 Leader of the Labour Party Sir Keir Starmer (centre) with West Midlands Metro Mayor candidate Liam Byrne (far right) and Labour Deputy Leader, Angela Rayner (far left) during a visit to Birmingham, whilst on the election campaign trail PA UK news in pictures 4 May 2021 Artists Heather Ackroyd and Dan Harvey stand within 100 oak saplings which form part of a living art installation entitled Beuys' Acorns by the UK-based artist duo, outside the Tate Modern in London PA UK news in pictures 3 May 2021 Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie feeds the Gentoo penguins during a visit to Edinburgh Zoo on the campaign trail for the forthcoming Scottish Parliamentary Election on May 6 PA UK news in pictures 2 May 2021 Chelsea players celebrate their fourth goal during the Women’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich, at Kingsmeadow Stadium in south west London.<doc-sep>Fire crews are returning for a seventh day as a "rapidly developing, aggressive fire" ravages moorland across Lancashire. Two large-scale moorland fires merged on Saturday due to increasing wind speed and a major incident was declared as crews tackled the blaze. Greater Manchester Police said fires on Winter Hill and Scout Road near Bolton have merged, with pedestrians and motorists urged to stay away from the scene. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service said 10 crews remained on the scene overnight, but the number was increased to 22 from 4.30am on Sunday.<doc-sep>A series of "apocalyptic" wildfires on the Pennine moors could take weeks to put out, the fire service has warned, after a second major blaze broke out just 30 miles from a fire that has raged for days. Seven square miles of Saddleworth Moor has gone up in flames, blanketing the Greater Manchester region and beyond in smoke and ash. Fire chiefs are considering setting fire to Saddleworth to create brakes to stop the out-of-control blaze, amid fears that trapped industrial pollution in the peat could be released into the air. Scottish soldiers from the 100-strong A Company of the 4th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland, known as the Highlanders, have joined more than 100 firefighters who have been battling the blaze since Sunday, leading to a "significant improvement". Meanwhile, a new moorland blaze - on Winter Hill, near Rivington, Lancashire - broke out on Thursday with huge plumes of smoke visible from the area surrounding the moorland. Fifteen fire engines from Lancashire Fire and Rescue spent the night on the moors preventing the fire, near Bolton, from spreading further.<doc-sep>
A major incident has been declared after two large-scale moorland fires merged. People have been forced to flee their homes as hundreds of firefighters battle to put out what has now become one large blaze. More than 100 firefighters are battling the fire in the West Pennine Moors, north of Bolton, after authorities declared a major incident. Helicopters are being used in the frantic effort to stop the flames, amid fears a nearby radio mast which serves more than six million people will be damaged, the Manchester Evening News reports. Fire service chiefs have requested military assistance, three days after the fire broke out on Thursday. Armed troops battling a blaze on Saddleworth Moor could now be shifted to aid the effort, it is being reported. Lancashire Police said later that a 21-year-old man from Bolton has been arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He has since been "released under investigation". It comes just days after a massive fire broke out on Saddleworth Moor, which has covered an area of more than seven-square-miles between Tameside and Oldham, and the operation to put it out is expected to last into next week. The latest fire covers an area of between six and eight kilometres, which has been described as a "vast" site. (Image: PA) (Image: PA) Lancashire Fire Service has urged people to stop heading to the moors in an effort to help. In a tweet, it wrote: "We’re really concerned that members of the public are heading up onto the moors. We really appreciate your offer to help but public safety is a priority and we ask people to stay away. "Keeping windows and doors closed due to the smoke is also advised. Thank you." Today it confirmed that it was increasing the number of crews at the site and there are 22 fire engines in attendance. The major incident has been called because the fire is close to the Winter Hill mast, which reaches more than six million people, providing TV stations in the North West. (Image: PA) (Image: PA) Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Dave Russell, said: “This is a developing, aggressive fire at the moment which is presenting us with a number of challenges. “For a number of days now we’ve had what have essentially been two moorland fires on either side of Winter Hill, one on the Lancashire side and one on the Manchester side. “At around midday today the incident on the Manchester side, particularly, was accelerated by increased wind speeds and has accelerated at a speed which connected the two. And at the moment we now have one single fire. “To put that in perspective, around 48 hours ago those fires were separated by an area of about a mile. “So the size and the geography of the area covered by the fire is what causes us the greatest challenge.” (Image: PA) (Image: Manchester Evening News) Assistant chief officer Dave Russel said emergency services have asked for a ‘small number of homes’ to be evacuated on the Greater Manchester side. The fires on Winter Hill, above Chorley, and Horrocks Farm at Scout Road, to the north of Bolton, are now being treated as one incident. Crews were first called shortly after 3pm on Thursday afternoon and found a 1km squared area of peat land and grass was burning. Earlier this week Manchester Fire Service warned that crews were "extremely busy" and urged people not to call 999 unless it was an emergency. (Image: PA) (Image: PA) (Image: PA) Operations had to be stepped down overnight for safety reasons, but firefighters returned at 4.30am when dawn broke on Friday. Now Greater Manchester Police has put road closures in place to allow emergency services access to the site, and for public safety.
Let’s face it. The Blues weren’t getting John Tavares, and the asking price for Ryan O‘Reilly was pretty steep - can the Blues afford to part with a first, second, and young player? Probably not, considering they appear to be in a “rebuild from within” sort of mindset right now (please ignore the David Perron re-signing for that to completely make sense). Factor in Paul Stastny heading to Vegas, and the Blues’ options for a center were dwindling. So, after those three, the most reasonably priced UFA center on the market was Tyler Bozak, and that’s who the Blues snagged: Tyler Bozak gets a three-year deal from St. Louis with a $5M AAV. — Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) July 1, 2018 The Blues needed a second-line center, and that’s exactly what they got. Is it a consolation prize for the bigger catches? Absolutely. Is that a very reasonable deal? Yes, especially considering Bozak is 32. Three years is a good term - much longer than that and you get into absurdity. Bozak’s career stats aren’t in the same league as the three centers I mentioned above - his career high came in 2016-2017, where he tallied 18 goals and 55 points. Bozak isn’t going to be a top-line player, but I suppose at this point it’s nice to see that a consolation prize is a (kind of) second-liner, not a 3rd liner.<doc-sep>The Blues’ offseason is in full swing with the announcement of three free-agent signings on Sunday. The Blues signed forward Tyler Bozak to a three-year contract worth $15 million, forward David Perron to a four-year contract worth $16 million and goaltender Chad Johnson to a one-year contract worth $1.75 million. The 32-year-old Bozak dressed in 81 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs last season, collecting 43 points, including 11 goals and 32 assists. The 6’1, 199-pound forward has spent his entire National Hockey League (NHL) career with the Maple Leafs, including each of the last three seasons as an assistant captain. Blues fans are more than familiar with Perron who will be enjoying his third stint with the club. The 30-year-old was originally drafted by the Blues, 26th overall, in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Perron’s previous stints with the Blues included a six-year stretch from 2007-2013, as well as 2016-17. Last season, the 6’0, 200-pound forward had a career year. Perron dressed in 70 regular season games for the Vegas Golden Knights, posting a career-high 50 assists and 66 points overall. He also collected nine points (one goal, eight assists) in 15 postseason games, helping the Golden Knights advance to the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. Johnson, 32, appeared in 36 regular season games with the Buffalo Sabres last season, posting a 10-16-3 record along with a 3.55 goals-against average and a .891 save-percentage. The 6’3, 197-pound goaltender was originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins, 125th overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Across eight NHL seasons, including stints with the New York Rangers, Arizona Coyotes, Boston Bruins, New York Islanders, Calgary Flames and Buffalo, Johnson has accumulated a 78-61-15 record, a 2.65 goals-against average and a .910 save-percentage. Internationally, the Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, native represented Canada at both the 2010 and 2017 World Championships, earning a silver medal in 2017.<doc-sep>TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY, 9 In third period action, Toronto Maple Leafs center Tyler Bozak (42) chases the puck in the Blues end. The Toronto Maple Leafs lost to the St. Louis Blues 2-1 in overtime in NHL hockey action at the Air Canada Centre (ACC) in Toronto. February 9, 2017 Richard Lautens/Toronto Star (Richard Lautens/Toronto Star via Getty Images) The St. Louis Blues needed help up the middle going into free agency. We did not know how much help would be coming, but despite a big splash, a signing in free agency should not be overlooked. The St. Louis Blues seemed a little desperate going into the offseason, knowing and making it public they needed a center. That usually is not the best idea as it drives prices up, whether in free agency or via trades. Still, the Blues made the necessary additions. Of course, by now, we all know about the big trade that happened as July 1 was winding down. On Canada Day, the Blues welcomed in one of Team Canada’s best from the World Championships. However, they also added another Canadian center by signing free agent Tyler Bozak. Bozak became expendable in Toronto since the Maple Leafs knew they had the lead in the John Tavares sweepstakes over the weekend. Bozak walked from the only NHL team he has ever known, but ran right into the open arms of the Blues. Bozak’s stats are not overly impressive. He’s a steady player that plays on both sides of the puck. He is very much a player in the vein of Alexander Steen, with a slightly lower ceiling from an offensive standpoint. Bozak is good in the faceoff circle, which is something St. Louis has been extremely mediocre at the last few years. He has only failed to win 52% of his draws once and that was a season he was injured and only played 58 games. For all this talk of lack of scoring, Bozak is no slouch. He had 11 goals and 43 points last year and a 55 point season the year prior to that. He has only eclipsed 20 goals once in his career, but you are not really bringing him in for that. You bring him in for faceoffs, perhaps some penalty killing, for steady defensive play and an ability to set guys up. We cannot forget that Bozak played much of his career on some very bad Toronto teams. There is no reason he cannot be a 40-plus point scorer for the Blues. That said, we cannot overvalue the St. Louis players. There is no reason to think any of the guys on the Blues are going to make Bozak a 55-plus point scorer again. Nevertheless, his role with the Blues should be a little more defined. If nothing else, even at 32, he should bring more tempo and pace to the Blues. The one drawback of Bozak is no fault of his own. $5 million per season for three years is definitely overpaying, unless we see a big season from him. Unfortunately, that was the going rate. We might judge the contract harshly later, but you were not going to get a decent center for cheap in the 2018 free agent market. There were too many teams needing a center and the increase in the cap gave more teams more money to spend. So, whether we personally agree with the terms, that was what had to be paid. When the Blues signed Bozak, there was no guarantee the Ryan O’Reilly trade would go through, even if they were still working on it. Thus, the Blues had to land one center at least. Bozak would have filled in nicely on the second line. Now, additions elsewhere put him at the third line, which is even better. Bozak can focus his game on the grittier side, knowing there are players in front of him that should handle the scoring. He can also focus on penalty killing, where he was second in the country in short-handed scoring as a collegiate. Bozak is not a sexy player and he won’t wow you with his skills. He is the kind of player that can help a team win big games when put in the right spots though. Bozak should fit in very well with the Blues. While he doesn’t have the skills, he should be a very good mentor for Robert Thomas in terms of work ethic and perseverance<doc-sep>Share this Story: Tyler Bozak gives emotional farewell to Toronto, Maple Leafs Tyler Bozak gives emotional farewell to Toronto, Maple Leafs Article content Few 21st century Maple Leafs played as long as Tyler Bozak, absorbed the personal criticism in the early years, took the hit for franchise failures, while always taking the high road with media and the fans as he walked the streets of Toronto. And few Leafs ever summed up their feelings so eloquently as the 32-year-old Bozak in a goodbye message via The Players Tribune, released Tuesday morning after he signed a three-year, $15 million US deal with the St. Louis Blues. The emotional piece began with a perfect scene setter of the 35 steps between the ACC dressing room door and the ice – he’d counted off the distance enough game nights – a superstitious nature requiring him to be the second man out after pump-up routines awaiting the signal to march. “You pass this little roped-off section of fans, and that’s when it — that particular feeling — starts to hit your gut,” Bozak wrote. “By now, the noise is deafening. The building is rocking. You can barely hear the music beneath the roar of the crowd. You can see the blue lights bouncing off the stainless steel walls of the tunnel. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “I’d smack the pucks from our bench onto the ice for warmup. Then I’d hit that fresh sheet … and I would just kind of float. That feeling, man, it’s pretty close to whatever perfect is. “I did that for nine years. Being a Maple Leaf is all I’ve ever known. “So before I leave, I just wanted to say thank you.” Bozak, the son of a Global TV station executive in Regina, Sask., began as a member of the ‘Frat Pack’ with NCAA roommates Christian Hanson and Viktor Stalberg. He recalled in detail the day he met Leaf rep Joe Nieuwendyk, who visited him at a coffee shop near the University of Denver, among other NHL suitors. “Joe made it clear: I wasn’t going to find another team like the Leafs. And I wasn’t going to find another city like Toronto. I knew this. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “There aren’t any NHL teams in Saskatchewan, so the Leafs are a big deal. I remember Toronto’s games coming on at 5 p.m. (local time) Saturday nights. Dougie Gilmour, Dave Andreychuk, Tie Domi, Wendel Clark … those guys were legends.” Bozak had self doubts earlier in his career, feeling lonely as a 19-year-old playing Tier II in Victoria, B.C. “My first year I wanted to quit so bad. I called my dad so many times telling him I didn’t think it was going to work out. “‘Just stick it out for the year … you just never know,’” he’d say. After battling fellow prospect Kyle Turris for the league scoring lead, he was more established and played two years at Denver. “When I eventually spoke with Brian Burke about a contract, just thinking about playing in the NHL in Toronto was surreal to me. But I also didn’t want to go to the Leafs and just fall through the cracks — or break under the pressure. I thought about going somewhere warm, maybe flying under the radar.” Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content He signed a two-year deal with the Leafs — and so much for laying low. “I’ll never forget the time (the Frat Pack) were out one afternoon and these kids — like 15- and 16-year-olds — recognized us. We hadn’t even worn a Leafs jersey yet. I heard them talking to their friends like, ‘Oh yeah, that’s Bozak. He had 34 points in 41 games for Denver last year. I think he’ll be a good centre, but he needs to work on his shot.’ “That kid was right. But what he and I didn’t know was that the better I got at passing, the more success I was going to find. Because when I got called up for good in January 2010, I got put on a line with the best shooter in the league.” Bozak can still picture Ron Wilson’s writing on the whiteboard from Jan, 12, 2010, a home game against Carolina, a line with Nikolai Kulemin on the left side and Phil Kessel on the right. Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content “When in doubt, pass to Phil,” was what Bozak learned that night, as he got an assist. He would come to know the enigmatic Kessel far better than most. “He’s a quiet guy. You probably know that, but it’s why we got along so well, I think. We’re different. I’m a bit more outgoing, I like to crack jokes, and he’s a bit more reserved. Phil and I had the same interests. A lot of nights you’d find us on the couch, watching a game with Stella (a Golden-Doodle, the light of Phil’s life). “Some nights I’d be in another room in our place and I’d hear Phil’s voice – ‘No, no, I just didn’t play well tonight. Yeah, I dunno really … ‘ “I’d walk into the room, and he’d be in mid-conversation with Stella. “I understood why. Sometimes I did the same thing — Stella was a good listener and a big hockey fan.” Advertisement Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Article content We apologize, but this video has failed to load. tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Bozak and Stella wound up on the coach watching the agonizing finish to Game 7 of the 2013 playoff series in Boston. Bozak was hurt, Phil and the Leafs had a 4-1 lead at TD Garden.<doc-sep>
David Perron always seems to find his way back to St. Louis. After spending the 2017-18 season as a member of the expansion Vegas Golden Knights, Perron is returning to the Blues for a third stint after signing a four-year, $16 million contract with the team in free agency on Sunday. [ProHockeyTalk’s NHL Free Agency Tracker] The decision to return comes just one year after the Blues left Perron exposed in the expansion draft — after protecting the likes of Ryan Reaves and Vladimir Sobotka ahead of him — and allowed him to be taken by the Golden Knights. During his one year with the expansion team Perron tallied 66 points in 70 games and was one of their most productive forwards during the regular season. That production dried up in the playoffs and resulted in him being a healthy scratch at one point during the Stanley Cup Final. Still, given how much the Blues struggled to score goals last season (24th in the NHL) they could have certainly used Perron during the regular season, and the decision to leave him exposed in the expansion draft was one of the many decisions across the league that helped Vegas build a contender in year one. Originally drafted by the Blues in the first round of the 2007 NHL draft, Perron spent the first six years of his career with the team before being traded to Edmonton prior to the 2013-14 season. From there he has bounced around between the Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, back to the Blues, Vegas, and now back to the Blues again. Along with the return of Perron, the Blues also attempted to bolster their center depth with the signing of Tyler Bozak to a three-year, $15 million contract. Prior to joining the Blues Bozak had spent his entire career with the Toronto Maple Leafs. With Bozak you know what you’re going to get offensively: He is going to score around 15 goals, finish with around 45-50 points, and generally score like a second-or third-line center. That is pretty much what he has always been. Over the past three years the rest of his game seemed to take a step forward and resulted in him posting some improved underlying numbers, especially when it came to his possession numbers. The Blues had a hole at center after trading Paul Stastny to the Winnipeg Jets at the trade deadline. Bozak isn’t as good as Stastny and Perron probably shouldn’t be expected to duplicate his numbers from this past season, but the Blues were pretty desperate for offense and attempted to address it here. — Adam Gretz is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @AGretz.
Elon Musk speaks on stage during the Westworld Featured Session during SXSW at Austin Convention Center on March 10, 2018 in Austin, Texas. Tesla whistleblower Martin Tripp — who CEO Elon Musk characterized as a saboteur and disgruntled ex-employee — is slated to meet with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, his attorney Stuart Meissner told CNBC. Meissner also shared this development on Twitter. tweet The SEC did not reply to a request for further information. Tesla declined to comment on the matter. In his complaint with the commission, Tripp alleges that Tesla has made several "material omissions and misstatements" to investors and taken steps that potentially compromised the safety of its customers. An interview with regulators could ignite a new SEC investigation into Tesla, could be used in ongoing investigations or could go nowhere at all. As a general rule, the SEC does not offer details or comments about ongoing investigations. This is not the first time the SEC has tangled with the electric vehicle maker. According to public records attained by the independent research firm, Probes Reporter, Tesla faced but did not disclose an SEC investigation into the Model 3 in 2016, which closed without enforcement action. The firm is tracking additional, undisclosed SEC investigations into SolarCity and Tesla. Probes Reporter CEO John P. Gavin said:<doc-sep>The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the SEC has, in fact, "made inquiries" to find out whether his claim was true, citing people familiar with the matter. Whether it was an impulse tweet or not, it's likely that the Securities and Exchange Commission has already opened an investigation and is looking for documentation to back up Musk's comments, former SEC enforcement lawyers say. That regulation is the one the Tesla CEO may or may not have violated when he sent the markets into a frenzy and halted trading in Tesla's shares after nonchalantly tweeting Tuesday that he was thinking about taking the electric car company private and had "funding secured," securities lawyers say. Elon Musk's lawyers are probably poring over rule 14e-8 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 right about now. "I can't imagine that the enforcement division hasn't opened a file, that they are not calling his counsel or him and saying 'we would like whatever papers you have about this, if you have written anything down, if you have talked to lenders, if you have materials about that we would like to see them,'" said Tom Gorman, a former senior enforcement attorney with the SEC and a partner at Dorsey & Whitney in Washington, D.C. "'And right after we have finished seeing all that stuff, we would like to talk to you.'" Investors aren't so convinced that Musk has actually secured funding. If not, that would spell big trouble for both Musk and his company. "There is skepticism as to where this money comes from. It doesn't make sense," Efraim Levy, an analyst at CFRA, told CNBC. "The reason it is trading at a discount is because of uncertainty as to whether the deal will come to fruition. If it doesn't come through, the stock is going to crater." The SEC's rule 14e-8 basically prohibits publicly traded companies from announcing plans to buy or sell securities if executives don't intend to follow through, don't have the means to complete the deal or are flat out trying to manipulate the stock price. § 240.14e-8 Prohibited conduct in connection with pre-commencement communications. It is a fraudulent, deceptive or manipulative act or practice within the meaning of section 14(e) of the Act ( 15 U.S.C. 78n) for any person to publicly announce that the person (or a party on whose behalf the person is acting) plans to make a tender offer that has not yet been commenced, if the person: (a) Is making the announcement of a potential tender offer without the intention to commence the offer within a reasonable time and complete the offer; (b) Intends, directly or indirectly, for the announcement to manipulate the market price of the stock of the bidder or subject company; or (c) Does not have the reasonable belief that the person will have the means to purchase securities to complete the offer. "He is claiming there is a specific source of the funding so that had better be true. He has also claimed there is a specific amount available for funding. That has to be true. Otherwise, even if it's not manipulation it would be fraud, so he's got two potential areas of difficulty right there," former SEC Chairman Harvey Pitt told CNBC. Tesla still hasn't said where it's getting the more than $71 billion it would cost to take the company private. Wall Street bankers also don't know, suggesting Musk has secured financing elsewhere. But that seems implausible given the size of the deal, which would require multiple banks, and cult-like interest in Musk and Tesla, dealmakers and analysts say. "News of the deal would have leaked had Tesla already held discussions to secure funding," UBS analyst Colin Langan wrote in a research note Tuesday. Musk's first tweet at 12:48 p.m. — "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured." — started a trading frenzy that drove shares to an intraday high of $387.49 — $45.47 above Monday's closing price. That comes to $7.72 billion with its 169.8 million shares outstanding, more than enough to squeeze short sellers who bet the price would fall. Musk's frequent complaints about "relentless attacks from short sellers" have raised questions about whether or not he was intentionally trying to drive the shares higher, which would meet the definition of market manipulation and carry possible criminal penalties, securities lawyers say. The comments also might ease some financial pressure on the carmaker by moving an important convertible bond above its conversion price. If Tesla's shares are above $359.87 when the debt matures Dec. 1, the bondholders can decide to convert the debt into stock rather than triggering a cash payout of $920 million when the debt is due come March. Moody's specifically cited that bond issuance and the company's cash burn rate as reasons for downgrading Tesla's credit rating in March. Tesla's skeptics have called into question the state of the company's financial position. It lost nearly $2 billion last year, and so far this year it burned through about $1.8 billion in cash after capital investments through two quarters. The company had $2.2 billion in cash at the end of the June quarter. "If his comments were issued for the purpose of moving the price of the stock, that could be manipulation. It could also be securities fraud," Pitt, now CEO of consulting firm Kalorama Partners, told CNBC's "Squawk Box." "The use of the specific price for a potential going private transaction is highly unprecedented. And therefore raises significant questions about what his intent was." If Musk's statements weren't true, he runs the risk of paying damages to investors who lost money on his tweets as well as criminal prosecution, Pitt said. Peter Henning, a law professor at Wayne State University, called it "backwards corporate governance." "You don't announce a price and then negotiate. There are a lot steps left in this," he said. "There is a whole process they have to go through or they are going to get the daylights sued out of them." Investors, meanwhile, are still confused. Tesla's stock price is a good gauge of how much investors believe Musk. In general, if investors are confident in a deal, shares will rise close to whatever offering price is announced, which would be $420 in this case. "However, if investors think there''s a 50/50 chance the deal with go through, the price will walk up halfway, between $340 and $420, which would be $380," Yale University finance professor Jacob Thomas told CNBC. "Given a post-tweet price of $380, roughly speaking, investors think the probability is about 50 percent." As investor confidence fluctuates, so does the price, rising toward $420 the more convinced they are or back to $340 if they are skeptical, he said. Tesla's stock fell 2.4 percent Wednesday to close at $370.34 a share. — CNBC's Berkeley Lovelace, Tae Kim, Alex Sherman and Hugh Son contributed to this article.<doc-sep>Tesla extended declines Thursday as investors questioned the ability of Elon Musk to take the company private and reacted to reports of a potential probe into Tweets by the founder and CEO that claimed he had "funding secured" for the $72 billion purchase. More questions than Model 3s? Tesla (TSLA) - Get Report shares extended declines Thursday as investors questioned the ability of Elon Musk to take the company private and reacted to reports of a potential probe into Tweets by the founder and CEO that claimed he had "funding secured" for the $72 billion purchase. The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday that the Securities and Exchange Commission is looking into the veracity of Musk's Tweet, which was sent at 12:48 eastern time on Tuesday, Aug. 7, and why the CEO opted to inform investors of his plans via social media as opposed to a formal filing with regulators. Those questions were intensified by a statement signed by six members of Tesla's nine-member board yesterday which said that "several" discussions about taking the group private were held last week. "Elon opened a discussion with the board about taking the company private," the statement said. "This included discussion as to how being private could better serve Tesla's long-term interests, and also addressed the funding for this to occur." Tesla shares were marked 3% lower in the opening 30 minutes of trading and changing hands at $359.16 each, a move that would still leave it around 4.8% higher than before Musk's "considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured" Tweet at mid-day Tuesday, but more than $10 billion shy of his proposed takeout value. SEC public affairs spokesman Chris Carofine told TheStreet that the agency is declining to comment. Taking Tesla private at Musk's stated value would likely require the biggest leverage buyout in U.S. corporate history, a tactic that could prove incredibly challenging for a company that burned through $740 million in cash each quarter, has a issuer credit rating of B3 at Moody's Investors Service, struggles under a $10.9 billion debt pile and has consistently failed to meet its own production and delivery targets. That said, with Saudi Arabia's reported $2 billion stake, and its association with SoftBank Corp.'s (SFTBY) tech-focused Vision Fund, Musk could find potential sources of debt capital to fund the billions needed to pull Tesla from listed markets. China's Tencent Holdings (TCEHY) , as well, could seek to lever its 10% stake in an LBO transaction given Musk's plans to build a gigafactory in Shanghai as part of his plans to sell Tesla sedans into the world's biggest car market. One concern investors may have with respect to Tesla's potential funding relates to recent moves by the Trump administration to consider import tariffs on the auto sector under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which allows for such moves under the broader guise of national security. Although that decision is currently under consultation, its debate could influence non-U.S. funding sources, such as Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, which has reportedly built a $2 billion stake in the Palo Alto, Calif.-based carmaker, and SoftBank Corp. of Japan, which has close ties to the Chinese government. More on Tesla's Future From TheStreet Both would face scrutiny from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, or CFIUS, an inter-agency panel that examines foreign investment plans and is chaired by Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin. Tesla's recently-announced plans to open gigafactories in China, while simultaneously laying off workers at its production facilities in Southern California, would likely mean a longer, more detailed probe into external investment plans from CFiUS amid Trump's "Buy American, Hire American" trade policy. "Basically, I'm trying to accomplish an outcome where Tesla can operate at its best, free from as much distraction and short-term thinking as possible, and where there is as little change for all of our investors, including all of our employees, as possible," Musk told investors.<doc-sep>
Tesla is likely to face investigation by US securities market regulators following the CEO Elon Musk’s extraordinary tweet that he had “funding secured” to take the company private, according to a media report. Shares in the money-losing carmaker fell sharply in New York after the Wall Street Journal reported that the Securities and Exchange Commission is making “inquiries” and quoted former SEC lawyers as saying that investigators were looking for documentation to back up Musk’s claims. According to the Journal, the SEC’s inquiries originate from the agency’s San Francisco office. The SEC declined to comment. If Musk’s claim turns out to be false, he risks civil and possible criminal penalties. Shares dipped again after Bloomberg reported regulators had been looking into Tesla prior to Musk’s tweets and were now intensifying their scrutiny of Tesla Inc.’s public statements, including statements on manufacturing goals and sales targets. The specific regulation lawyers believe Musk could have broken in his “funding secured” tweet is 14e-8 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which prohibits publicly traded companies from announcing plans to buy or sell securities if executives don’t intend to complete, don’t have the means to complete, or are trying to manipulate the stock price. Musk’s claim that he has secured funding, if in fact he does not, could expose him and his company to lawsuits. “He is claiming there is a specific source of the funding so that had better be true,” the former SEC chairman Harvey Pitt told CNBC. “He has also claimed there is a specific amount available for funding. That has to be true. Otherwise, even if it’s not manipulation, it would be fraud, so he’s got two potential areas of difficulty right there.” So far, no Wall Street institution has claimed any knowledge of negotiations to raise any of the $70bn it would cost to take the company private. Musk could have raised the money from a sovereign wealth fund, wealthy individuals or a private equity fund. According to a statement from six of Tesla’s nine directors, Musk raised the go-private possibility with the board last week. They said he had “addressed the funding for this to occur” without providing details. Musk has in the past tweeted assertions that sounded like more than they were. In July 2017, Musk tweeted that he had received “verbal govt approval” to build a high-speed hyperloop connecting New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC and Baltimore. A White House adviser later dampened those claims and said Musk had signaled “excitement” not approval. After Musk’s Twitter claim on Monday that “investor support is confirmed” to take Tesla private, the California State Teachers’ Retirement System, which owns about 213,000 shares as one of the largest institutional investors in Tesla, said it had not been contacted by Musk or the firm before the announcement. The “funding secured” tweet has, in any event, focused investors on Tesla’s finances – and Musk’s executive leadership of it. “If no firmer details emerge investors would likely increasingly debate Musk’s credibility and seemingly unhealthy focus on the shares’ price and volatility, ” wrote Bernstein analyst Toni Sacconaghi in a note to clients. The company lost nearly $2bn last year, and has burned through about $1.8bn in cash as it ramps up production on the Model 3. At the end of the June quarter, the company had $2.2bn in cash reserves. Tesla’s stock, which rose 11% on Tuesday after Musk’s statement from $342 to $379, has since dropped back to $352. If, as some analysts suggest, Tesla’s stock is a measure of confidence in Musk himself, it’s well below the $420 at which Musk said shareholders would be bought at. “The reason it is trading at a discount is because of uncertainty as to whether the deal will come to fruition,” Efraim Levy, an analyst at CFRA, told CNBC. “If it doesn’t come through, the stock is going to crater.” But if a buyer emerges, that too could spook the markets, warned Nick Colas at DataTrek Research in a client note, since it could mark a risk-taking peak for corporate America. Colas compared a Tesla sale to RJR Nabisco’s take-private in 1988, AOL’s purchase of Time Warner in 2000 or Goldman Sachs’ bundling of toxic mortgages in 2007, all bad, era-defining deals. “While we are not superstitious by nature, we do fear this transaction looks an awful lot like other deals done at the peak of prior cycles,” Colas wrote, and gave it a name: “Tesla top”.
Get the latest United updates, transfer news and analysis delivered straight to your inbox every day for free Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Jose Mourinho has reminded Paul Pogba no player is bigger than Manchester United after their tense exchange in open training on Wednesday. Pogba and Mourinho were filmed engaged in what appeared to be a terse conversation over the French midfielder's Instagram post during United's Carabao Cup penalty shootout loss to Derby on Tuesday night. United sources claimed there was a misunderstanding over the timing of Pogba's upload but the flashpoint came a day after Mourinho stripped Pogba of the 'second captain' role. Despite a turbulent week in which Pogba implored United to 'attack, attack, attack' in a mixed zone exchange with journalists after the Wolves draw last Saturday, Mourinho claimed Pogba was one of the best trainers this week at Carrington and confirmed he will start at West Ham in United's lunchtime Premier League fixture tomorrow. "Manchester United is bigger than anyone and I have to defend that," Mourinho proclaimed, agreeing his relationship with Pogba was 'player-manager'. "Exactly that," Mourinho said. "That's exactly that, I think Paul told that in one of his appearances in the famous mixed zone and is exactly, he is correct. Is a good relation, player manager. "No, I cannot tell you [what was said]. The training session was open, you had some cameras with some potential to get some of the words, maybe you have to change the potential if you want to know everything that is said because I'm not going to comment, it was a conversation. "I explain very detailed to the people that has to know in detail, which is the squad and especially Paul, so Paul and the other players in the squad know in detail the reason why myself and my coaching staff, we decide to do that and I always analyse a player as a player when a player is captain, I analyse the player by the player and captain perspective. And after weeks of analysing and changing opinions with my coaching staff we made the decision Paul is just a player and not a captain. Decision made. "I informed the player and the players and when I was asked before the match on Tuesday I confirm and now I confirm and now end of the story. "I can anticipate more questions by saying the relation of player manager is good, is not anymore a relation, captain or whether the captain's manager, the relation is good, nobody trained better than Paul Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, nobody trained better than him, some trained as well, but nobody better. And tomorrow he plays, so end of the story." When asked whether he could have conducted the exchange in private, Mourinho replied: "I have to train as always, I don't care about the cameras. What confrontation? "Disruptive? I think for you was amazing because you made a story, an incredible story out of 15 minutes of open training session, maybe is your fault [Karen Shotbolt, the press officer], we should have 15 minutes of training session open because what happened the other day happens many days, conversations with players I have many, many, many times. "Was not the case but loud critic, loud instruction happens every day, coaching is about that but you make story about it, so I'm happy the rules are only 15 minutes once a month and situations like that are not going to change, there is no chance you will watch a session." United have won one of their four home games this season but travel to a resurgent West Ham, who ended their losing start to the campaign with a 3-1 win at Everton before they ended Chelsea's winning run in a goalless draw last week. Manuel Pellegrini's side also annihilated Macclesfield 8-0 in the Carabao Cup in midweek and Mourinho insists United's unbeaten month is little compensation after a chastening week. "After the draw on Tuesday yes, a draw at home against a Championship team, a good Championship team, but against a Championship team is not a good result for us," Mourinho added. "The same as the draw against Wolves, a good team but a team we have to beat at Old Trafford. Five matches in September, zero defeats, three victories, two draws, but not good enough and of course we want to finish the September month with a good match, a good performance, a good result."<doc-sep>MANCHESTER, England -- Jose Mourinho says the training ground spat with Paul Pogba is nothing compared to some of the things that go on at the club's Carrington training ground. Cameras captured Mourinho involved in a tense exchange with Pogba on Wednesday just hours after confirming he had stripped the midfielder of the vice-captaincy. But at a news conference on Friday, the United manager played down the incident by insisting it was lucky camera crews are not allowed in every day. "When you say disruptive or you got on camera me speaking with Paul I am happy that you don't come here more times because you would get much more than that," said Mourinho. "I can promise you, much more than that. Much louder, much more aggressive. Words with a completely different dimension, you would get a lot. So I'm really happy that the rules are 15 minutes [once a month]." United head to West Ham on Saturday looking for their first win in three games after drawing with Wolves and losing on penalties to Derby. Manuel Pellegrini's side have found some form with wins over Everton and Macclesfield either side of a positive draw with Chelsea. Paul Pogba was one of his Jose Mourinho's first signings as Man United manager in 2016. Getty Mourinho is expecting a tough test but even after a week of drama and controversy, he is confident of a good performance at the London Stadium. "I think we are going to play very well, I think we are going to win a very difficult match against a very good opponent, an opponent with great investment, an opponent with a champion manager with lots of experienced players, lots of very talented players," he said. "Very difficult but I am very positive. I expect to win. "I expect to play very well. We work very, very well -- especially Wednesday and Thursday -- so I expect a very good performance and I expect to win a very difficult match."<doc-sep>Who do United need to sign to mount a title challenge? Get our daily Manchester United email newsletter Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Sign me up! Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Jose Mourinho has spoken out on his frosty training ground clash with Paul Pogba, saying such incidents are usually "much more aggressive". The Manchester United boss was caught on camera having a word with the Frenchman over his decision to post on Instagram from the stands at Old Trafford while watching his side's defeat by Derby in the Carabao Cup. The pair shared a frosty exchange in which Pogba glared at his boss before voicing his opinion on the matter and swiftly walking away. This weekend Pogba was hauled off on the hour mark in Manchester United's 3-1 defeat by West Ham at the London Stadium. (Image: Sky Sports) Mourinho had discussed the spat ahead of the match, hinting that these sorts of spats are a regular occurence. "When you say it's disruptive or you got on camera me speaking with Paul I am happy that you don't come here more times because you would get much more than that," said Mourinho. (Image: AFP) "I can promise you, much more than that. Much louder much more aggressive. Words with a completely different dimension, you would get a lot. "So I'm really happy that the rules are 15 minutes [a month]."<doc-sep>Get the latest United updates, transfer news and analysis delivered straight to your inbox every day for free Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Jose Mourinho is reported to have been behind the leaks at Manchester United last week in an attempt to control the escalating power struggle with key player Paul Pogba. As Mourinho's feud with Pogba rumbles on, former players and pundits have also been discussing which personality will outlast the other at United. Here, we've rounded up the latest media reports and pundit comments surrounding Mourinho following United's dismal loss to West Ham on Saturday... L'Equipe in France, via Sportwitness, have suggested Mourinho was the one who 'orchestrated' the filming of a training-ground exchange with Pogba last week. The pair were caught on camera embroiled in a heated discussion over a video that appeared on Pogba's Instagram story the previous night. The whole debate turned out to be a WiFi-caused misunderstanding, as Pogba intended for the video to go up during the match but the poor internet inside Old Trafford meant it wasn't uploaded until after the shoot-out loss to Derby. L'Equipe's report also says Mourinho was the one to leak the news that Pogba would never captain United again on Tuesday before the 55-year-old confirmed his decision in a Sky Sports interview following the match. Elsewhere, the Mail have gone big with a story on their website that says United’s players believe Mourinho could be sacked by the end of this week. The report, by journalists Simon Jones and Max Winters, says players and staff were openly discussing the possibility of Mourinho losing his job as they made their way back to Manchester after the loss to West Ham. It is claimed that Ed Woodward is reluctant to make another managerial change but his hand could be forced by the ‘degenerating atmosphere’ surrounding the club. Zinedine Zidane is said to be keen on taking over if he is approached. Meanwhile, former United captain Steve Bruce says the club has to back Mourinho in order to avoid a situation where 'lunatics run the asylum'. Bruce said that United need to reduce the player power that appears to be taking hold at Old Trafford and can do that by backing Mourinho. The Aston Villa boss said: “Let’s not kid ourselves, to a certain degree, player power has always been there. But there has to be respect between any player and manager. "If that relationship doesn’t exist any more... well, the lunatics will be running the asylum. “It becomes a ­free-for-all. One person has to be ­accountable because, if that’s not the case, I can guarantee that the club – and that’s any club, not just ­Manchester United – will have ­problems. It could be anarchy.” In contrast to Bruce's view, Martin Keown said that Mourinho will be the first to leave out of him and Pogba. Speaking on Match of the Day, Keown said: "I think Mourinho goes before Pogba does. “These external matters should be dealt with internally. I don't like the way it's being handled at the moment. “Now it's affecting team performance. Something has to change soon.” In order to avoid such a situation, ex-United defender Tommy Docherty says Mourinho should sell Pogba - or risk getting sacked himself. Docherty told the Sunday People: “I would just let Pogba go. He clearly doesn’t want to be at the club. “Some players who are high maintenance but do perform for you can be tolerated. But he blows hot and cold. United should never have re-signed him in the first place. “United don’t like to sack their managers and like to give them a good run. But Mourinho must be on borrowed time as he has spent well over £300m. “And these constant rows being played out in public with his players won’t have done him any good. “But if he does stay then he needs to show he’s in charge – and that means getting rid of Pogba as soon as he can. It’s the only way to show he’s in control at the club.”<doc-sep>
Jose Mourinho has opened up on his training-ground clash with Paul Pogba and told him: "No player is bigger than the club.” Mourinho and Pogba clashed on Wednesday, their verbal exchange caught by TV cameras invited down to Manchester United's training ground to film 15 minutes of the session. United boss Mourinho confirmed Pogba – whom he stripped of the vice-captaincy the day before their training-ground spat – will start away to West Ham tomorrow. Mourinho denied he had a fraught relationship with Pogba, despite the pair having clashed on several occasions this season, with the midfielder wanting to leave United for Barcelona. (Image: Sky Sports) (Image: Matthew Peters) But Mourinho reminded United's £89million player that no layer is bigger than the club and told Pogba he must know his place. “He's a player like the others,' said Mourinho. “No player is bigger than the club and if I'm happy with his work he plays, if I'm not happy he doesn't play. “I'm happy with his work this week, really happy, Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday especially, because today was not so significant but he trained really well. “The team needs good players, players with the personality to play - he has that and he plays tomorrow. (Image: Sky Sports) “I think for you was amazing because you made a story, an incredible story, out of 15 minutes of open training session. But what happened the other day happens many days, conversations with players I have many, many, many times. “That was not the case [on this occasion], but loud criticism, loud instruction, that happens every day, coaching is about that but you make story about it. So I'm happy the rules are only 15 minutes [of filming training] once a month and situations like that are not going to change, there is no chance you will watch a session.” When it was put to Mourinho he knew the cameras were there and he could have had the confrontation with Pogba away from them, the United boss went on the defensive. (Image: Sky Sports) “I have to train as always,” said Mourinho. “I don't care about the cameras. What confrontation?” Asked to describe his relationship with Pobga, Mourinho said: ”Exactly that, that's exactly that, I think Paul told that in one of his appearances in the 'famous mixed zone' and it is exactly that - he is correct. It's a good relation, between player and manager." Asked what was said between the pair during their training-ground spat, Mourinho said: “No. I cannot tell you. The training session was open, you had some cameras with some potential to get some of the words. “Maybe you have to change the potential if you want to know everything that is said because I'm not going to comment, it was a conversation.” (Image: Matthew Peters) Mourinho said he decided to take the vice-captaincy role away from Pogba after detailed discussions with his coaching staff and after analysing the 25-year-old's performances when wearing the armband on three occasions. “I explain very detailed to the people that has to know in detail, which is the squad and especially Paul, so Paul and the other players in the squad know in detail the reason why myself and my coaching staff, we decide to do that,” said Mourinho. “I always analyse a player as a player when a player is captain, I analyse the player by the player and captain perspective, and after weeks of analysing and changing opinions with my coaching staff, we made the decision Paul is just a a player and not a captain. (Image: AFP/Getty) “Decision-made, I informed the player and the players and when I was asked after the match on Tuesday, I confirmed and now I confirm and now it's the end of the story. “I can anticipate more questions by saying the relation of player and manager is good, is not anymore a relation, captain or whether the captain's manager, the relation is good. “But nobody trained better than Paul Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, nobody trained better than him, some trained as well, and tomorrow he plays, so end of the story.” Asked whether the spat between him and Pogba had damaged the reputation of United, Mourinho said: “Manchester United is bigger than anyone and I have to defend that.”
Over a dozen people are thought to be dead after being involved in a plane crash on Sunday. The business jet was leaving Las Vegas en route to Mexico. Dailystar reports a private Bombardier Challenger 601 plane went missing on Sunday afternoon over the Mexican state of Coahuila. The crew lost contact with air traffic control less than two hours after taking off from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, reports BNO News. The aircraft was found Monday morning after a search-and-rescue mission in a mountainous area of ​​Monclova. The number of passengers and crew members on the flight has not been confirmed, though multiple reports state at least 14 passengers died. According to BNO, the passenger list showed there were 13 people on board, including 11 passengers and two crew members. Read: American Airlines Flight Returns To Airport After Plane Hits Runway Sign Those aboard the flight had been on their way home after watching boxer Daniel Jacobs fight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez at the T Mobile Arena in Nevada on Saturday night. While the cause of the crash is unknown, officials believe bad weather is likely part of the reason. Photo: Getty Images<doc-sep>Mexican rescuers spotted "no survivors" while surveilling a crash site of a private plane in the north of the country, authorities said on Monday. The wreckage is believed to be the Bombardier Challenger 601 jet that disappeared from radar while flying from Las Vegas to the north Mexican city of Monterrey with at least 13 people on board. An air search of the isolated area found a wreck matching the private jet. "Everything indicates it is the plane" that went missing, said Miguel Villarreal, head of the Monclova International Airport in the state of Coahuila. "The flight plan reported there were 11 passengers on board, plus the crew," he told local TV station Multimedios. Some outlets put the total number of people on board to 14. Passengers on the private jet had reportedly visited Las Vegas to see Mexican boxer Saul "Canelo" Alvarez fight American Daniel Jacobs for the middleweight title fight on Saturday. Alvarez won the fight. The boxer posted his condolences on Twitter, saying "I deeply lament the terrible accident of the plane coming from Vegas. I'm deeply grateful for the support of all the people who travel to see my fights. My prayers are with their families." Authorities did not release the names of people on board. Investigators were still making their way to the mountainous area, officials said on Monday. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century European aviation disasters of the 21st century: Germanwings Airbus A320 A Germanwings Airbus A320 crashed into the French Alps on March 24, 2015 during a flight from Barcelona to Dusseldorf. All 144 passengers and six crew members were killed. A co-pilot with mental problems intentionally crashed the plane. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 Rebels in eastern Ukraine were accused of shooting down Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 on July 17, 2014 during a flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur. All 298 people on board died, 193 of them Dutch. A Dutch investigation found pro-Russian rebels shot the plane down with a Buk surface-to-air missile launched from separatist territory in eastern Ukraine. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Polish President Lech Kaczynski killed A Polish air force plane carrying President Lech Kaczynski crashed near the Russian airport of Smolensk on April 10, 2010. A Russian and Polish investigation found pilot error during landing in thick fog caused the crash that killed more than 90 people. Jaroslaw Kaczynski (pictured), the twin brother of Lech and leader of the ruling PiS, has suggested the crash was a political assassination. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Air France Flight 447 An Air France flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris crashed in the Atlantic on June 1, 2009, killing all 228 people on board. It took nearly two years for the black box (pictured) to be recovered from the bottom of the ocean. The investigation found a combination of technical and pilot error caused the crash. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Spanair Flight 5022 A Spanair MD-82 plane crashed after take-off from Madrid airport on August 20, 2008, killing 154 people. Amazingly, 18 people survived the crash and subsequent fire. The crash was caused by an improper flap and slat configuration and a failure of the pilots to follow a pre-flight checklist. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Pulkovo Aviation Enterprise Flight 612 A Russian passenger plane operated by Pulkovo Aviation Enterprise crashed near the eastern Ukraine city of Donetsk on August 22, 2006, killing all 170 people aboard. The plane was flying from St. Petersburg to the Black Sea resort of Anapa. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Helios Airways Flight 522 A Helios Airways flight from Cyprus crashed on August 14, 2005 near its destination Athens, killing all 121 on board. The crash was caused by a loss of cabin pressurization that immobilized the crew. The plane flew on autopilot until it ran out of fuel and crashed. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Überlingen mid-air collision On the night of July 1, 2002, a DHL cargo plane flying near the southern German town of Überlingen struck a Russian passenger jet carrying mostly schoolchildren to Barcelona, Spain. The two men aboard the DHL plane and all 69 passengers and crew on Bashkirian Airlines Flight 2937 perished. Swiss air traffic control firm Skyguide was found to be at fault for the tragedy. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century SAS Flight 686 On October 8, 2001 a Scandinavian Airlines MD-87 airliner collided with a small Cessna on take-off from Milan's Linate Airport. All 114 people on the SAS and Cessna aircraft were killed, as were four people on the ground. The accident happened in thick fog. The SAS plane crashed into a hangar. Europe's major plane crashes of the 21st century Air France Concorde Flight On July 25, 2000 an Air France Concorde flight from Paris to New York crashed two minutes after take-off, killing 109 people on board and four people on the ground. The crash was caused by the Concorde running over a piece of debris on the runway, which sent tire debris into part of the fuel tank that burst into flames. dj/aw (AP, dpa, AFP, Reuters) Every evening, DW sends out a selection of the day's news and features. Sign up here.<doc-sep>
MEXICO CITY, May 6 (Reuters) – The wreckage of a plane that disappeared en route from Las Vegas to Monterrey in northern Mexico has been found, a state government official said on Monday, with local media reporting that all on board had died. Mexican newspaper Reforma said the private plane had 11 passengers and three crew members on board. The flight report, however, listed 11 passengers and two crew members. The wreckage of the plane was found via aerial surveillance 129 miles northwest of Monclova in the border state of Coahuila, said Fernando Orta of the state’s emergency services department. The plane went missing about 90 minutes after leaving Las Vegas on Sunday afternoon. The passengers, who ranged in age from 19 to 57, had reportedly been in Las Vegas for Saturday night’s middleweight bout between boxers Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs. The plane — a twin-engine Bombardier Challenger 601 — left Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport at 2 p.m. Sunday for what was to have been a 2½-hour flight. Local broadcaster Televisa reported the jet lost contact with air traffic controllers sometime after 5:20 p.m. Monterrey time (3:20 p.m. Las Vegas time) as the pilot ascended to avoid a storm. Its last verified position was near Big Bend National Park, on the U.S.-Mexico border. Officials had not yet arrived to inspect the crash site, Orta said. “The land is rather mountainous … so they’re going to take a while longer to arrive,” Orta said. A photograph published on local television network Milenio showed what it said were the burnt remnants of the plane, broken into pieces, spread over charred earth. A Mexican transport ministry spokesman could not say whether there had been any survivors. The occupants as listed on the flight plan: Pilot Juan Jose Aguilar Talavera, 45 Crew member Luis Ovidio Gonzalez Flores, 29 Luis Octavio Reyes Dominguez, 54 Loyda Liliana Luna Larrosa, 49 Jade Paola Reyes Luna, 26 Guillermo Octavio Reyes Luna, 23 Frida Alejandrina Reyes Luna, 19 Ramon Amauri Vela, 57 Martha Isabel Garcia Lagunes, 43 Gary Amauri Vela Garcia, 19 Adriana Monserrat Mejia Sanchez, 29 Manuel Alejandro Sepulveda Gonzalez, 25 Monica Leticia Salinas Trevino, 22 (Reporting by Daina Beth Solomon, Noe Torres, Ana Isabel Martinez and David Alire Garcia, Editing by Rosalba O’Brien)
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool side played out a goalless draw at a wet Anfield in their Champions League last-16 first leg tie with Bayern Munich on Tuesday night. But who impressed the most? Liverpool Alisson: An instinctive early save spared Joel Matip some embarrassment, but he was also guilty on at least one occasion of over-elaboration when playing out from the back. 6 Trent Alexander-Arnold: Still appears to be feeling his way back in after the knee injury that kept him out for almost a month. 6 Joel Matip: Victorious in only one of his previous 17 appearances against Bayern, and worked hard to atone for the early error that almost cost him an own goal. 5 Fabinho: Asked to play at centre-back in the absence of Virgil van Dijk and Dejan Lovren, and was impressive, making excellent second-half challenges to thwart Robert Lewandowski and Kingsley Coman. 7 Andy Robertson: Eager to get forward, and almost nicked a goal after half-time, although he was frequently on the defensive against the lively Serge Gnabry. 6<doc-sep>Liverpool played out a 0-0 draw with Bayern Munich in the Champions League last 16 first leg, but featured excellent performances from Jordan Henderson and Joel Matip. The Reds were unable to score at Anfield for the third consecutive time against Bayern in the club’s playing histories. It was not a game were the teams did not take their chances however, as both sides were inches away from scoring on multiple occasions. Sadio Mane had the most of the chances as he put a couple balls just wide of Manuel Neuer and the post. Mohamed Salah also had a chance off a volley from a Jordan Henderson cross. The makeshift defense of Fabinho and Joel Matip held strong, and will live to fight another day. Luckily, we will have Virgil van Dijk in the second leg, while Bayern will be without Joshua Kimmich and Thomas Mueller due to suspension. Want your voice heard? Join the Rush The Kop team! Write for us! Overall, it is not a terrible result for Liverpool, giving that shape of our defense, and the strength of the competition. We could easily go to Munich and win on away goals, or just win the game outright with a little more stability in the back. Not ideal, but it is what we have to deal with. Onto the player ratings.<doc-sep>L iverpool’s season has been so consumed by their ongoing Premier League title charge that this game almost felt like an afterthought. But a crackling Anfield atmosphere prior to kick-off was a timely reminder of this club’s love affair with a European Cup, and the reason Jurgen Klopp is right to take this competition just as seriously this term. In the end, the Reds didn’t quite produce the performance to match their pre-match favourites status, but still had plenty to be pleased with at full-time. However, the exact same could be said of a Bayern Munich team that had already been written off by large sections of the press back home. Both sides were left to rue near misses and take pleasure from a hard-earned clean sheet, and both will have plenty to consider ahead of a rematch in March that has all the makings of a classic. Van Dijk importance underlined Player ratings How did Liverpool fare vs Bayern? Alisson: 5 Alexander-Arnold: 4 Matip: 5 Fabinho: 6 Robertson: 6 Henderson: 7 Wijnaldum: 7 Keita: 7 Salah: 6 Mane: 6 Firmino: 7 Subs Origi: 5 Milner: 6 If there was anyone who still doubted that Virgil van Dijk is the key figure in Liverpool’s backline, then proceedings at Anfield this evening will surely have set them straight. Yes, the hosts had a midfielder filling in at centre-half, but that is no excuse for the disorganisation that characterised their start to the match. Thankfully for Klopp, he will be able to restore his Dutch talisman for Sunday’s trip to Old Trafford, and the second leg of this tie. But the Reds need to be better prepared for his absence going forward given that a long-term injury would likely end any hopes of winning a trophy as things stand. Warm-weather camp theory given credence In Pictures | Liverpool vs Bayern Munich | 19/02/2019 1 /36 In Pictures | Liverpool vs Bayern Munich | 19/02/2019 REUTERS REUTERS AFP/Getty Images Action Images via Reuters AP AFP/Getty Images Action Images via Reuters REUTERS EPA AFP/Getty Images Action Images via Reuters Action Images via Reuters REUTERS Action Images via Reuters AP EPA REUTERS Action Images via Reuters REUTERS Action Images via Reuters Liverpool FC via Getty Images Getty Images EPA REUTERS Getty Images AP Liverpool FC via Getty Images Liverpool FC via Getty Images Liverpool FC via Getty Images Liverpool FC via Getty Images Liverpool FC via Getty Images Action Images via Reuters Action Images via Reuters Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images A section of Liverpool supporters reacted with dismay when it was confirmed that the Reds were set for another warm-weather camp prior to this tie. With a 10-day break between fixtures, Klopp and co flew out to train in new surroundings, just as they had done in similar circumstances prior to facing Leicester and West Ham. Of course, the points dropped in those fixtures were blamed by a number of fans on the team’s brief jaunt to Dubai - and their theory didn’t look too far out here. Fresh from a four-day stay in Spain, Liverpool made a hesitant start to proceedings here that allowed Bayern Munich to get a foothold, and didn’t look their fluent selves for much of the 90 minutes. Maybe there is some sense in the hypothesis that a change in training habits breaks up rhythm? Underrated Henderson shines again Action Images via Reuters He may never win over all of his critics but Jordan Henderson always be loved by Liverpool fans thanks to performances like this. Coming up against the likes of Thiago Alcantara, Javi Martinez and James Rodriguez, the Englishman made a fair pitch to be considered the evening’s best-performing midfielder. His energy and criminally underrated passing range were crucial to the Reds wresting control of the centre of the park back following a ropey first 20 minutes. It may not have been a captain’s performance of the Steven Gerrard vintage, but it was proof enough that the current skipper is deserving of the armband - and perhaps a little more appreciation. Bayern’s safety-first approach pays off Action Images via Reuters Having watched Bayern join Manchester City as one of just two teams to have kept a clean sheet at Anfield, Niko Kovac can certainly be satisfied with his night’s work. The Germans’ plan to bring the Reds’ press onto them and play from there was similar to Pep Guardiola’s approach here, and it worked to a tee in the first 20 minutes. Liverpool began to assert themselves after that, but not enough to grab the first goal of the tie and an advantage going into the second leg. For all the criticism the visitors’ coach has received this season, he deserves credit for getting things right in this game. Clean sheet keeps tie in the balance EPA It didn’t look likely in the first few minutes at Anfield, but Liverpool will be delighted to have a clean sheet of their own to show for a performance that didn’t quite reach their normal standards. Not conceding an away goal here was just as crucial as scoring, and the hosts can take solace from the fact that one of those objectives was achieved in an evenly poised match. The onus is on Bayern to open up in the second leg - and you’d back them to score at home - but that could also provide chances for the Reds’ pacey attack.<doc-sep>
Liverpool were frustrated in their attempts to defeat Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League last 16 clash on Tuesday night. The Reds will travel to the Allianz Arena next month having so far failed to break down a stubborn Bayern defence - but also crucially having denied their German opponents an away goal at Anfield. Bayern may have been the happier team after the 0-0 draw, knowing that any win in Germany takes them through to the next round. But Jurgen Klopp said it was "not a dream result but a good one" from a Liverpool perspective, with all to play for on March 13. Here is how the Reds players rated last night... Alisson Becker 5 In the right place to make a point-blank save from his own player Matip, but was unconvincing first half with the ball at his feet. Quiet after the break. Trent Alexander-Arnold 6 Few attacking opportunities before the interval, save one good cross created a chance for Salah. More involved second half but kept honest by the lively Coman. Read how the match unfolded at Anfield HERE Fabinho 7 Up against Lewandowski, the makeshift centre-back didn't win everything, particularly in the air, but put in a fine shift and made one excellent tackle inside the area. Joel Matip 7 Almost scored at both ends, and was dodgy when dealing with one Alisson pass. Otherwise can be content with his efforts. Needs to work on his shooting, however. Andy Robertson 6 Found it difficult defensively at times up against Gnabry, and his deliveries in the attacking third were not of their usual standard. Improved second half. Jordan Henderson 8 (Image: Stu Forster/Getty Images) Led by example with a fine display. Played one excellent ball through to Salah first half and was a driving force, while some of his tackling got the crowd going. Booked. Gini Wijnaldum 6 Started brightly but his influence waned in a congested midfield. Didn't stop putting in the hard yards, but a bit more imagination was required. Naby Keita 7 Warmed to his task, a few good first-half touches created openings and got about the pitch well. However, his decision-making is still not quite there yet. Subbed. Mohamed Salah 6 Saw a stretching volley held by Neuer but should have done better with a far-post header first half. Didn't stop going forward and was always a danger but was often hounded out. Roberto Firmino 7 Seemed to have at least three Bayern players around him at all times, but came into it before the break with some clever passes. Work-rate impressive given his pre-match illness. Substituted. Sadio Mane 7 Missed a great chance on the turn and sent an overhead kick over. Needed to be in the game more in the second half, especially with Kimmich on a booking. Forced a save from Neuer with a header. Substitutes James Milner (for Keita 76) 6 Made a few tackles. Divock Origi (for Firmino 76) 5 Rolled the ball out of play once.
Officials say severe storms blew through the Ozarks Tuesday evening, causing widespread damage and at least one death. Locally, a stretch between Ozark and Rogersville appears to have been hit hardest. The only reported death occurred in Douglas County. While Tuesday's storms are over, it will likely take several days for the bad weather to pass. The National Weather Service expects thunderstorms almost every day until next Tuesday. The weather service said that by Wednesday afternoon, it had confirmed at least three tornadoes in the area — in Miller, Wheaton and Pleasant Ridge — but crews were out doing surveys and several more tornadoes would likely be confirmed. "There's quite a bit of damage around the area," meteorologist Jeff Raberding said, pointing to Wheaton, Miller, Ozark, Willard and Rogersville as some of the places most impacted. Raberding said the powerful storms also produced a dangerous amount of rain that brought flash flooding risks. In Ava, Raberding said, there were reports of 7 inches of rain falling during the storms. Raberding warned citizens to be careful of debris in the roadway and possible flooding this week. Late Tuesday night, Ozark Police Chief Tim Clothier said he believed a tornado had touched down in the city's Waterford subdivision — although that had not been confirmed as of early Wednesday afternoon. Clothier said three people there suffered minor injuries and several homes saw extensive damage. The Salvation Army was on scene Wednesday providing lunch at the Waterford subdivision as well as water, coffee, spiritual counseling and handling other requests from Christian County Emergency Management. In Logan-Rogersville, the fire department posted photos on social media of a home that had been totally destroyed near Highway 60 and Harmony and a partial building collapse at the Salon Knot on Endeavor Drive. City Utilities reported the storms broke 17 power poles along Highway 60, causing 70 people to lose power in the Rogersville area. The sheriff's departments in Dallas County and Stone County posted on social media Tuesday night about downed trees and broken power poles. The Miller Rural Fire Department posted about damaged homes on Missouri 39 and Highway UU. The fire department said there were reports of downed trees blocking the roadway, and Liberty Utilities said 10 to 15 power poles were damaged during the storms. At Roaring River State Park near Cassville, about 15 campers were evacuated to a different campground location when the river began to rise rapidly, according to park manager Joel Topham. "We did evacuate campground 3 and 2," Topham said. "We had water come into campground 3, and we're assessing now if there was any damage or safety issues." Roaring River near the state park rose about 6 feet, cresting at 3:41 a.m. at 7.05 feet. Campgrounds 2 and 3 remain closed, Topham said. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reported that Table Rock Lake rose about a foot and a half overnight due to heavy rain and inflows from rivers. At Table Rock Dam, the Corps planned to open five spillway gates 1 foot this morning to begin releasing 5,000 cubic feet of water per second downstream. Combined with water flowing through the Table Rock Dam turbines, the dam will be sending a total of 15,000 cubic feet of water per second into Lake Taneycomo. Corps spokeswoman Laurie Driver urged boaters to beware of debris — logs, tree branches or other material — that might wash into Table Rock Lake. "If you're on the water, be cautious. It's good to have a spotter on the front of the boat, have your engine kill switch in place, wear your life jacket and slow down," Driver said. In Springfield, the James River just east of town jumped from 5 feet to 15 feet in just a few hours overnight. The USGS river gauge showed the James River was 3 feet above flood level at 9:30 a.m. and still rising. Near Mountain View, the Jacks Fork River rose even higher than the James. The Jacks Fork rose from 3 feet to 18 feet overnight, though it has crested and had dropped to 17 feet by 10 a.m. Ozark National Scenic Riverways closed all of the Jacks Fork River and most of the Current River to paddlers Wednesday morning, with the exception of Tan Vat to Akers on the upper Current, which is still open. According to ONSR, the Alley Spring Campground is being evacuated due to expected flooding. Visitors in back-country campgrounds on the Jacks Fork are being asked to evacuate due to rising water. Portions of the Buffalo National River in Arkansas were above flood stage Wednesday morning, prompting a warning from park officials. "For those of you that were planning to come float the Buffalo River within the next few days please check current river levels at the link below or call the Tyler Bend Visitor Center at 870-439-2502 or the Buffalo Point Ranger Station at 870-449-4311 for more information," the park posted on its Facebook page. "Flood waters are currently moving down the river and with more rain in the forecast there is no way to predict when the river might reach a safe and moderate level again." The Buffalo was in flood stage between Ponca and Pruitt late Wednesday morning, though the river had crested and was dropping at Ponca at 10:45 a.m. All of southwest Missouri remains in a flood warning, according to the National Weather Service. Springfield Fire Chief David Pennington said his agency performed one water rescue Tuesday night after a car got stuck at a low-water crossing on AA Highway in Fair Grove. At least two flights coming to the Springfield-Branson National Airport were canceled and two were diverted late Tuesday evening when the storms were at their peak, according to the website flightstats.com. Airport spokesman Kent Boyd said the airport itself doesn't track the reasons for cancellations or diversions, but "when I see a pattern like this ... that was probably weather-related." People inside the airport were ushered into the basement storm shelter around 8:30 p.m. to get away from the many windows in the terminal area, Boyd said. "Any time there's a tornado warning in the immediate vicinity, we take people into the basement," he said. "But when they get back up, (people waiting for flights) have to get screened again." He said he didn't think anybody would've been waiting for an outbound flight at that hour, however. The Greene County Office of Emergency Management reported the worst storm damage in the county occurred near Missouri 125 between Highway 194 and Highway AD. Greene County residents needing to report damage from the storms can do so by calling 417-869-6040. Convoy of Hope spent Wednesday helping the Greene County Office of Emergency Management as well as working in the Waterford neighborhood in Ozark.<doc-sep>Severe storms that spawned tornado reports in southwest Missouri on Tuesday left a mark on Barry County. David Compton, director of Barry County Emergency Management, said at nearly 8 p.m. Tuesday that Wheaton appeared to be the hardest hit. Located on the western edge of the county, it has 700 residents. "Wheaton took the brunt of the damage," he said. The late afternoon storm that blew through Wheaton left at least three homes "heavily damaged" and destroyed a smattering of outbuildings. "I'm sure there are plenty of others that have minor roof damage," Compton said for a while after the storm, debris and downed trees blocked the two main access roads into Wheaton, including the W and 86 highways. Following the storm, the Wheaton district posted on its website: "Due to significant damage in the area, loss of power at the school, and student safety as our primary concern school is cancelled tomorrow, Wednesday May 1." The stormy forecast spurred the district to cancel its evening events, including softball and baseball games. A series of posts to parents on the site show the weather created havoc at dismissal, as students were asked to take shelter and buses did not run until the threat passed. Compton said first responders worked to help Wheaton families with home damage to find a place to stay. "Most of them are going to have friends and family to go to." Wheaton may have been the hardest hit, but the rest of Barry County was not spared. Compton said there were widespread power outages from Monett to Cassville. He said multiple cities reported debris and downed trees and power lines. In Shell Knob and other communities near Table Rock Lake, he said outbuildings "were tossed around." He said Pleasant Ridge, in the north part of the county, reported tree damage. Crews were working to clear debris off highways, and families in many cities were asked not to venture out to survey the minor or moderate damage until daylight. Compton said with storms expected to bring more rain Wednesday, emergency crews had other worries. "Our big concern now is the potential for flooding through tonight and for tomorrow."<doc-sep>
Update: The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning until 9 p.m. for the following: North-central Christian County Northeastern Stone County Southeastern Greene County. A line of severe thunderstorms that spawned tornado reports in Barry, McDonald, Lawrence and Newton — among other — counties was headed toward Springfield this evening. "Most of the storms that have come across southwest Missouri have had some sort of rotation with them," said Mike Albano, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Springfield, in an update posted online. "We've had a handful of confirmed, damaging tornadoes and this threat is going to continue." Albano said numerous "discrete supercells," some more organized than others, have spawned tornado reports in southwest Missouri. There was a line of storms traveling up the U.S. 60 corridor Tuesday evening and the possibility of a squall line, he said. Severe thunderstorms are expected to roll through the Ozarks during the evening. "We have more storms behind this," he said. Albano said there were reports of homes destroyed in Wheaton and at least one radar-confirmed tornado in Miller. "Miller has already been hit hard by a tornado," he said. He added there was a "tornado debris signature in Pleasant Ridge, Missouri, associated with this storm, between Purdy and Aurora." Kelsey Angle, also a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Springfield, said the initial trio of reports — including potential damage — came in between 3:30 and 3:45 p.m. Tuesday. "There have been reports of damage," he said. Throughout Tuesday evening, most of southwest Missouri was under a tornado watch with pockets of tornado warnings. "It's important to remain weather aware today, tomorrow and right through Thursday," he said. "We expect a busy weather week." The line of storms is traveling northeast at 30 mph, meaning heavy rain, damaging hail, flooding and the possibility of tornadoes may hit Springfield and nearby cities during the rush hour, when many are traveling home from work. Holly Michelle posted photos of hail near Golden, 70 miles south of Springfield. In addition to the threat of high winds and tornadoes, much of southwest Missouri is also under a flash flood warning with rainfall amounts — through Thursday — ranging from 2-1/2 inches to 5 inches. In a Facebook post, the National Weather Service in Springfield noted that exactly nine years ago, a supercell thunderstorm produced five tornadoes on April 30, 2010. The hit the area included Ozark and Howell counties. In Branson, employees at Silver Dollar City took shelter briefly Tuesday afternoon. Lisa Rau, director of publicity for the attraction and Herschend Family Entertainment Corp., said there was no damage reported. Rau said a "very small crowd" took shelter at the Showboat Branson Belle through the 4 p.m. show. She said the attraction remained "tightly docked" Tuesday. "It is 2.5 million pounds equipped with hurricane-force protected windows. All our emergency procedures call for keeping people in the ship if necessary." Area school districts canceled evening events, including athletic practices and games. Springfield Public Schools posted a list of six school buildings with storm shelters, which are available outside of school hours for residents in the community that live within what is referred to as the “Tornado Protection Zone." The residents in the zones have been notified. The shelters are not designed to be used by those beyond the zone. According to the Greene County Office of Emergency Management, residents planning to use a storm shelter need to arrive in a timely manner. The locations of the shelters include: Fremont Elementary School, 2814 N. Fremont Ave. Hillcrest High School, 3319 N. Grant Ave. Jeffries Elementary School, 4051 S. Scenic Ave. Kickapoo High School, 3710 S. Jefferson Ave. Sherwood Elementary School, 2524 S. Golden Ave. Westport K-8 School, 415 S. Golden Ave. When a tornado warning is issued — and the tornado sirens activated — by the county’s Emergency Management director or Greene County’s 911 director, the shelter will be opened. The doors to the shelter will close 10 minutes after a warning is issued or sooner if tornadic activity is observed in the vicinity.
Roseanne Barr has revealed how her namesake character will be written off in the upcoming The Connors spin-off Roseanne Barr Says Her Namesake Character Dies of an Opioid Overdose on The Conners Roseanne Barr has revealed how her namesake character will be written off the upcoming The Conners spin-off. During an appearance on Brandon Straka’s YouTube show Walk Away over the weekend, Barr said her character will die of an overdose. Get push notifications with news, features and more. “Oh ya, they killed her,” she said. “They have her die of an opioid overdose.” Barr admitted she was unhappy with the way the writers apparently decided to end her character’s arc. “It wasn’t enough to [fire me], they had to so cruelly insult the people who loved that family and that show,” she said. But the actress said she’s come to terms with the show moving on without her. “There’s nothing I can do about it. It’s done. It’s over,” she said. “There’s no fight left.” The Conners, which focuses on the same family (minus Roseanne Conner) at the center of Roseanne, officially started production last month. The show follows the hugely successful 10th season of Roseanne,which aired from 2017 to 2018 but was later canceled because of a since-deleted racist tweet from creator Barr about Valerie Jarrett, former senior advisor to President Barack Obama. 147831_8928 Channing Dungey, the president of ABC Entertainment, released a statement calling the tweet “abhorrent, repugnant and inconsistent with our values, and we have decided to cancel her show.” RELATED VIDEO: Roseanne Barr Speaks Out in First TV Interview Since Roseanne Firing: ‘It Cost Me Everything’ Weeks later, PEOPLE confirmed the network had greenlit the spinoff with five of the six core cast members returning for a 10-episode, straight to series order. The Conners will follow “the Conner family who, after a sudden turn of events, are forced to face the daily struggles of life in Lanford in a way they never have before.” John Goodman previously hinted at the death of Barr’s character during an interview with U.K. newspaper The Times. “I guess [Dan will] be mopey and sad because his wife’s dead,” he said, implying that Barr’s character will be killed off.<doc-sep>ABC/Robert Trachtenberg The Conners ABC Premieres: Oct. 16 Airs: Tuesdays at 8pm ET/PT Who’s In It? John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Lecy Goranson, Michael Fishman All of your questions will be answered. #TheConners premieres Tuesday at 8|7c on ABC! pic.twitter.com/bQyZgV9YQt — The Conners (@TheConnersABC) October 10, 2018 What’s It All About? ABC executives took a risk when they rebooted Roseanne this past spring, knowing star and executive producer Roseanne Barr’s volatile reputation. The risk reaped a big ratings reward, and the show was renewed for a second season. Then Barr torpedoed the show with a racist tweet. ABC Entertainment President Channing Dungey was swift and decisive: “Roseanne’s Twitter statement is abhorrent, repugnant and inconsistent with our values, and we have decided to cancel her show.” Soon after, ABC announced that it picked up The Conners, and that principal cast members John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Lecy Goranson and Michael Fishman were onboard to salvage something from Roseanne’s wreckage — without any involvement by Barr. According to the network, the Conner family faces “a sudden turn of events.” In late August, Goodman hinted to The Sunday Times that the Roseanne character dies, saying that Dan will “be mopey and sad because his wife’s dead.” For all her outrageousness, Roseanne (the character) was still the hub that held the Conner family wheel in place and the source of its best jokes. Will the audience that boosted the Roseanne reboot outright reject The Conners? Viewers will tune in to The Conners to learn Roseanne’s fate, but will they come back for more? Without the irascible Roseanne, the series has a hard row to hoe.<doc-sep>They’ve sat together and laughed around this timeworn kitchen table on the Warner Bros. set in Burbank countless times over the past 30 years. But today Sara Gilbert, John Goodman and Laurie Metcalf are understandably apprehensive. It’s the first time they’ve spoken collectively since the reboot of their hit show Roseanne was abruptly canceled by ABC in May after its star Roseanne Barr tweeted a racist statement about former White House adviser Valerie Jarrett. Despite being known for frequently controversial behavior, Barr encountered a swift condemnation from many corners, including from Gilbert, who soon took to Twitter as well. “Roseanne’s recent comments about Valerie Jarrett, and so much more, are abhorrent,” she tweeted. “I am disappointed in her actions to say the least.” Now Gilbert, Goodman and Metcalf, though justifiably wary of engaging in a discussion about Barr herself, are feeling something besides shock or disappointment, something closer to relief: gratitude. All three are appreciative that the aftermath of last spring’s outrage has yielded a spinoff, The Conners, and they are also grateful to the former matriarch for allowing the new show to proceed. Notably absent from The Conners is Barr; ABC has said she agreed to have no creative or financial ties to the show, which was crucial for the spinoff to move ahead. “That was a very big deal,” says Goodman. “To give us a chance.” And while each star is still adjusting to the loss of a family member—both on and off-set—they’ve found strength in their deeply rooted love for the series. “There was the feeling of not wanting it to go away until we were ready,” Goodman adds. “There was a debt owed to this fictional family. We’ll figure out how to get through this, the family will, everybody will. We want to finish telling this story.” Get push notifications with news, features and more. conners3 Credit: Jeff Lipsky Stepping back onto the set last year for the show’s critically acclaimed 10th season was a surreal experience for everyone involved. From the shabby furniture to the cluttered decor of the midwestern family’s working-class home, the replicated minutiae of the house “was bizarre,” says Goodman, 66. “Everything was the same.” Although Barr’s volatility was long demonstrated, revisiting their characters—blue-collar father-of-three Dan, his daughter Darlene and his sister-in-law Jackie—from the hit show, which first ran from 1988 to 1997, was an easy decision for all of them. “I jumped in right away,” says Metcalf. “I had always hoped for maybe a one-show reunion, just to get everybody back in the room again and also remembering what a great working energy we had, all of us together.” Gilbert, 43, who began working on the series when she was 13, also opted to return as a producer for the revival. “I had a very strong desire to protect the show,” she says. “That’s why I wanted to produce it, because I felt like I could be some kind of gatekeeper, hopefully, for having integrity in terms of how it matched up to the original.” From day one “it felt so right,” Goodman adds. “Everybody was extremely grateful to be back, and anything that feels that good is bound to affect somebody.” With stellar ratings during its mid-season premiere, the limited series was immediately picked up and then renewed for another season. “It’s the kind of history that you really can’t buy in an ensemble, because we really have lived it,” Metcalf, 63, says of the reboot’s success. “I was just awash with sentimentality and more appreciative of it,” adds Goodman. “It was a great feeling.” JOHN GOODMAN, LAURIE METCALF Credit: Eric McCandless/ABC Then, on May 28, replying to a tweet about Valerie Jarrett, a former adviser to President Barack Obama, Barr made a racist comment (which has since been deleted). The next day the fallout was immediate, with ABC denouncing Barr’s “repugnant” statement as “inconsistent with our values” and canceling the show. “I remember I was in my kitchen, and maybe my daughter or my wife told me,” Goodman recalls of first hearing about the tweet. “It just didn’t seem true. Then it got true. I was consciously trying to accept it. Just like, ‘Okay, this is happening, just breathe and go with it.’ Underneath I’m trying to get out of a plastic bag that is closing in on me, but I’m trying to be calm on the surface. I remember that contradiction.” Gilbert took the same approach when it came to processing the news. “I don’t remember too much,” she says. “It was more just, ‘Okay, what are we dealing with today?’ I was just kind of taking things one step at a time as they came.” In New York City, where she was performing Three Tall Women on Broadway, Metcalf “was home, and I saw it on the news, actually,” she recalls. “And I [first] thought, ‘Oh, I wonder if we still have a show.’ Because of how heavy everything became.” conners Credit: Jeff Lipsky In the weeks following the cancellation, each of them grappled with the now-tainted quintessential comeback story. Goodman tried to focus on “the hope of resurrecting it,” he says. “It was so unbelievable to do this show, and it was like easy come, easy go. I had a bad time for about a month. And then other things started going wrong. I fell down the steps and broke a rib. My wife got sick—just all kinds of weird stuff happened at one time. But I just had a feeling that it would work out.” Initially Metcalf wasn’t as confident. “I was trying to reconcile myself to the show being gone,” she says. “Because I wasn’t in the loop of any other possibility except it being gone. So I was trying to be resigned to that. And you know, coming off such a high, it was hard to wrap our heads around.” Compartmentalizing seemed to work best for Gilbert. “It was more just, today we’re dealing with what happened and the cancellation, and then it was the network pretty shortly thereafter started to talk to us about what could come next,” she says. “You know, after the dust settled.<doc-sep>When one of television’s most iconic couches returns Oct. 16, it won’t be supporting the leading lady that popularized it. As the countdown to the Roseanne Barr-less “The Conners” premiere continues, speculation about how Barr’s character will be written off remains rampant, with producers refusing to confirm whether Barr’s own revelation that her character is killed off from an opium overdose is true. (Barr was fired and the “Roseanne” revival was canceled in May following a racist tweet from the actress and producer; she relinquished all rights to the characters in order for “The Conners” to move forward.) “We want people to watch the show and see what happens and how we [wrote Roseanne off],” says executive producer Bruce Rasmussen. “You don’t want to be flip about how you do this. A lot of people cared about that character and it’s separate from whatever feelings they had about the person and her political views and the things she said. We wanted to honor that character. People can have their opinions after that.” “The Conners” was officially greenlit in June when series regulars John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Alicia Goranson and Michael Fishman inked new deals. The resurrection is touted as saving hundreds of below-the-line jobs, and so far has confirmed several guest stars including original series star Johnny Galecki, Juliette Lewis, Justin Long and Steve Zahn. To dig into the challenges of reimagining a reboot, Variety caught up with Rasmussen and fellow executive producer Dave Caplan. Here, they discuss incoming storylines and tones, crafting this series without its matriarchal figurehead, and paying homage to the iconic images and characters from the past 30 years. How political is “The Conners” compared to “Roseanne?” Rasmussen: We are living in a time where people are very anxious and can’t afford to go to the doctor and all that other stuff. So we’re writing in the same way we wrote last year about the economic things. If some of those feel political, they’re political, but we’re not doing any more of the Trump stuff. It’s more about working-class people and how they live their lives. If that comes off as political in spots then that’s how people will perceive it. Where does the inspiration for those storylines come from? Caplan: The newspaper. The past lives of the characters. We’re really lucky to inherit characters that have long histories and as they continue to live their lives they face new challenges. In America 2018 there’s no shortage of challenges, especially when you’re living in a lower income bracket in America. It’s tough and there are a lot of challenges and there are a ton of stories there for us tell. What were conversations with the cast like before forging ahead with the show? Caplan: It was a huge vote of confidence to get all these actors back. These actors are in tremendous demand and they didn’t have to come back and do this. The fact that they wanted to and they knew they were going to be challenged by the scripts that we’re writing and they knew they wanted the legacy of the show to be what it deserves to be. It was a real blessing for us and I think it says a lot about what they think of the show. Rasmussen: Very few shows have gone on after the lead character has left, so part of it was how do we make a show that works without that central character? It was a little surprising to me that it was as easy as it was to move forward without that character, but the other characters came to the fore more. We’re going to get more involved in the characters’ personal lives this year. It really is where are they at in their lives now and what does that mean and what are they going to be dealing with? There have historically been shows that continued without their leads— did you look to any for inspiration or have any conversations with producers in a similar situation? Rasmussen: When Dave and I and [showrunner] Bruce Helford were talking about this, we did think about “Valerie” and “The Hogan Family” and we just referenced that, but that was the only other one we could remember this happening to. We didn’t remember how they did it and we didn’t talk to anybody about how they did it. Caplan: Historically, we went back and took a brief look at the far history of television, there were things like “The Danny Thomas Show” where they dealt with a major character leaving, but this was kind of unprecedented. We knew it would be, and that it might be difficult from a writing standpoint to do it honestly and not break the bond of honesty that we feel we have with our audiences. We felt that if it came off as artificial in any way it was just going to be a disaster. So we wanted to try and do it in the most emotionally honest way possible. Beyond the premiere, what kind of lasting presence does the Roseanne character have in order to not feel disingenuous to audiences that are aware the mother figure is absent? Caplan: What’s interesting about the absence of the Roseanne character is that these other characters have to step up and fill a void. It puts them through changes that are interesting for people that know these characters. And even if they’ve never watched the show before it’s still going to be fascinating to see how people adapt when something happens in their lives. Everyone has tragedies in their lives, or has someone they love leave them. And you have to adapt and you have to grow, and that’s what these characters are going to be going through in an interesting way. Rasmussen: We do track the lack of the Roseanne character through multiple episodes. Given the new ensemble feel, were there specific characters you were excited to take deeper dives with? Rasmussen: All of them. What we did last year with Becky was a blast.<doc-sep>
The cast of The Conners — Maya Lynne Robinson, Jayden Rey, Michael Fishman, John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Sara Gilbert, Emma Kenney, Ames McNamara, and Lecy Goranson — pose for a promotional photo. (Photo: Robert Trachtenberg/ABC via Getty Images) Even viewers who watched Roseanne from its 1988 premiere are curious about exactly what The Conners, the rebranded version of the show that’s now without its star and co-creator, Roseanne Barr, will be like. You’ll remember that the Roseanne reboot was canceled in May after she tweeted a racist comment. The series was then picked up as a spinoff, with the rest of the cast — Sara Gilbert, John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, Michael Fishman, Lecy Goranson, and others — as well as most of the crew, intact. Less than a week before the premiere on Oct. 16, here’s what we know: Roseanne won’t be involved with the show at all. Really. ABC’s decision to cut ties with the star of the network’s highest-rated show of last season was somewhat surprising, but it was decisive. Barr reached a settlement with Tom Werner, the producer of the original and the reboot, so that it could happen. Executives at ABC were the ones who demanded she leave, although her co-stars weren’t happy with her either. Yes, the cast knows the situation with Roseanne Barr is awkward — and even sad. They’re excited to be back on the air, but they’ve known Barr for at least 30 years and worked with her for many of them. They get it. “Sara and I had this scene in the first show, where we addressed the grief,” said Metcalf, who plays Barr’s sister, Jackie. “Sometimes when you’re an actor and you have to go to that place, you substitute something, but in this case there was no need to do that, because it was there. And it was real. And still makes me choke up, because that part of it’s been really hard.” John Goodman, who plays Roseanne’s husband, Dan, seconded that. “She is missed, definitely,” he told Jimmy Kimmel on Monday night. John Goodman and Sara Gilbert’s characters mourn Roseanne in the first episode of The Conners. (Photo: Eric McCandless/ABC via Getty Images) Roseanne’s character will be killed off. Barr herself told Brandon Straka on his YouTube show Walk Away in September that she knows exactly how it happens. “They have her die of an opioid overdose,” she said. The actress said she had actually come up with the idea of Roseanne struggling with the drug, after her experience following a knee surgery. “There was a bit of a fight for me to quit and get off [opioids],” Barr noted. Story continues Still, she strongly disagreed with the show’s decision to have her character die that way. “I wanted to show [opioid struggle] in the show,” Barr said. “But I was never going to have Roseanne die of an opioid overdose. It’s so cynical and horrible. She should have died as a hero or not at all. … It wasn’t enough to [fire me], they had to so cruelly insult the people who loved that family and that show.” The people who are still behind the show could have changed their minds about that storyline, though. Darlene and David are moving on romantically. Dodgeball actor Justin Long is set to play a love interest for Darlene, who’s ex-husband, David (Johnny Galecki), is still nearby. In fact, David has a love interest of his own, a girlfriend named Blue, who will be played by Juliette Lewis. What we don’t know is exactly how David and Long’s characters or Gilbert and Lewis’s will interact, although it’s a good bet that not everything will go over smoothly. DJ has a new wife. While DJ’s wife was played on the Roseanne reboot by Xosha Roquemore, theater actress Maya Lynne Robinson has joined the cast of The Conners to fill it. The character was previously said to be serving in the military in Afghanistan. The little girl that DJ was reluctant to kiss is all grown up. Welcome to #TheConners @MissMayaLynne. pic.twitter.com/Au86R8g5S0 — The Conners (@TheConnersABC) September 14, 2018 The audience’s time in Lanford will be limited. Although 13 episodes of Roseanne were ordered before it was canceled, The Conners will initially get 10 shows to prove what it can do without its matriarch. Still, that’s enough for people to see the family moving through their grief and begin coming back to life. Speaking of which… There will be a Halloween-themed episode.
The Scottish champions are attempting to secure continental football for the coming months and they must see off Lithuanian opposition to do so Celtic will be aiming to book their place in the Europa League group stage on Thursday when they welcome Suduva to Glasgow for the second leg of their play-off tie. Brendan Rodgers' side were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg, which took place in Lithuania last week, and the expectation is that they will finish the job at Celtic Park. However, despite boasting an away goal and home advantage in the second leg, the Scottish champions cannot afford to take anything for granted, having already tasted Champions League elimination. The financial blow of missing out on a place at the top table of European football will be softened somewhat with a win, which will ensure lucrative continental games until winter at least. Game Celtic vs Suduva Marijampole Date Thursday, August 30 Time 8pm BST / 3pm ET TV Channel, Live Stream & How To Watch In the United States (US) the game will be not be shown live on television, but it is available to stream live online outside of the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland via Celtic TV. US TV channel Online stream N/A Celtic TV In the UK, the game is not available to watch live on television, nor can it be streamed live online, but you can follow live updates with Goal, here. UK TV channel Online stream N/A N/A Squads & Team News Position Celtic squad Goalkeepers Gordon, Bain, Hazard, Mullen Defenders J. Hendry, Simunovic, Gamboa, Boyata, Lustig, Compper, Ajer, Church, Duffy, Deas, McInroy, Ralston, Walsh, Tierney, Bell Midfielders Brown, Sinclair, Morgan, Rogic, Allan, Ntcham, Robertson, McGregor, Forrest, Henderson, Kennedy, McLaughlin, McKay, Marku, Kouassi Forwards Griffiths, Dembele, Hayes, Christie, Edouard, Miller, R. Hendry, Hill, McGrath, Diver, Johnston, Savoury, Aitchison The return to full fitness of Odsonne Edouard is a boost for Celtic, with the striker recovering from a hamstring injury which kept him out of the last four games. Dedryk Boyata featured in the league victory over Hamilton Academicals at the weekend, scoring the winner, and he may play a part in the game despite being at odds with the club over his future. Potential Celtic XI: Gordon; Lustig, Boyata, Ajer; Tierney, Forrest, Brown, McGregor, Ntcham; Dembele, Edouard. Position Suduva squad Goalkeepers Kardum, Aleksandrov-Ridley, Stebrys Defenders Cinikas, Gaiduchik, Isoda, Svrljuga, Zivanovic, Slavickas, Jankauskas Midfielders Leimonas, Matulevicius, Cadjenovic, Acevedo, Verbickas, Guilherme, Vezevicius, Offenbacher Forwards Kasparavicius, Topcagic, Cicilia A number of players, including Jovan Cadjenovic, Aleksandar Zivanovic and Vitali Gaidechik, as well as manager Vladimir Ceburin, faced visa issues ahead of the game, but all four will be present. Potential Suduva XI: Kardum; Slavickas, Jankauskas, Gaiduchik, Svrljuga; Guilherme, Leimonas, Vezevicius, Cadjenovic, Verbickas; Cicilia. Betting & Match Odds Celtic are strong favourites to come out on top at home, with bet365 offering odds of 1/10 on a Bhoys victory. Suduva are considered a 20/1 bet to win, while a draw, which could see either side progress, is 8/1. Click here to see more offers for the game, including goalscoring markets, correct score predictions and more. Match Preview Having started the season so strongly Celtic have endured a rough patch over the past month, which has seen them suffer defeat to Hearts in the league as well as Champions League elimination at the hands of AEK Athens. Inconsistent results on the pitch have combined with unrest off it, as a number of players agitate for moves away from Celtic Park, but Rodgers can begin to settle that issue by ensuring the club takes their place in the Europa League group stage. "It's important for us to have European football at least through to Christmas," the former Liverpool boss said ahead of the game. "It's an opportunity for all of us to play against really good teams and work against very good managers and to develop. Article continues below "We have a great opportunity to finish the job at home and go into a prestigious tournament for us which is important." The Bhoys have shown some vulnerability in Europe in recent weeks and, just as they did in the Champions League against AEK Athens, they squandered an early lead against Suduva in the first leg to allow the Lithuanians hope heading into the game in Glasgow. With home support behind them in the second leg, Celtic will need to rise to the occasion as they attempt to avoid further embarrassment and salvage their contintental campaign.<doc-sep>Mark Runnacles/Getty Images Celtic are back in Europa League action tonight as they host FK Suduva. Celtic starting line-up: Gordon; Lustig, Boyata, Ajer, Tierney; Brown, Ntcham, McGregor; Johnston, Sinclair, Griffiths. Celtic substitutes: Bain, Izaguirre, Gamboa, Hayes, Christie, Rogic, Forrest. Celtic can book a place in the group stage of the Europa League tonight if they can see off Lithuanian side FK Suduva at Celtic Park this evening, just hours after rivals Rangers made it through. The Bhoys drew 1-1 in Lithuania last week and need to avoid embarrassment tonight, with the away goal scored a week ago a major boost to Brendan Rodgers’ side. Roy Keane and the growing links to Celtic Tonight, Rodgers has once again gone with veteran Craig Gordon in goal, with wantaway defender Dedryck Boyata in the back four along with Mikael Lustig, Kristoffer Ajer and Kieran Tierney. Scott Brown will sit in front of the back four, with Callum McGregor and Olivier Ntcham – another player linked with a move away – starting ahead of him in midfield. Youngster Mikey Johnston starts again having been handed a similar role last week, with Scott Sinclair on the opposite flank and Leigh Griffiths leading the attack for the Bhoys. Moussa Dembele isn’t in the squad at all today, with questions still lingering over the Frenchman’s future after a bid from Lyon ahead of Friday’s European transfer deadline. Tom Rogic is on the bench though, alongside Scott Bain, Emilio Izaguirre, Cristian Gamboa, Jonny Hayes, Ryan Christie and James Forrest. In other news, Report: Four players face Southampton exit including Newcastle-linked ace<doc-sep>Vagelis Georgariou/Action Plus via Getty Images Celtic take on Lithuanian side FK Suduva in the Europa League tonight. Celtic starting line-up: Gordon; Gamboa, Simunovic, Ajer, Tierney; Brown, Ntcham; Forrest, McGregor, Johnston; Dembele. Celtic substitutes: Bain, Izaguirre, Lustig, Kouassi, Griffiths, Rogic, Sinclair. Celtic are in Europa League qualifying action this evening as they travel to take on FK Suduva, with a win taking the Bhoys a step closer to a group stage spot in the competition. After their disastrous Champion League qualifying exit at the hands of AEK Athens last week, Celtic have to move on to the next best alternative, which is a passage towards the Europa League. Roy Keane and the growing links to Celtic Brendan Rodgers will be hoping to make the most of this opportunity, and has gone with a strong line-up, starting with goalkeeper Craig Gordon between the sticks for Celtic. Cristian Gamboa continues at right back ahead of Mikael Lustig, with Jozo Simunovic and Kristoffer Ajer featuring at centre back in Dedryck Boyata’s absence, whilst Kieran Tierney is at left back. Scott Brown and linked-away Olivier Ntcham feature in the centre of midfield, whilst Callum McGregor starts in attacking midfield, with James Forrest and youngster Mikey Johnston on the flanks, as Johnston makes his first European start for the club. Moussa Dembele features in attack with Odsonne Edouard unavailable, and Leigh Griffiths is only on the bench as Rodgers goes with just the one striker tonight. Scott Bain, Emilio Izaguirre, Eboue Kouassi, Tom Rogic and Scott Sinclair are all named on the bench, joining Lustig and Griffiths as substitutes. In other news, Daniel Levy may soon make a move that could make Spurs fans and Dele Alli very happy – Our View<doc-sep>Celtic 3 FK Suduva 0; agg 4-1 Goals from Leigh Griffiths – his 100th for Celtic – Callum McGregor and Kris Ajer ensured that Brendan Rodgers’s men would have Europa League football until Christmas at least, as they dealt efficiently with a lacklustre FK Suduva side in their play-off second leg at Parkhead. If some home fans expressed mild frustration that their heroes were somewhat one-paced, there were others content with the thought that Celtic had conserved energy ahead of the visit of Rangers on Sunday. There was no place in the squad for Moussa Dembele but, although a £15 million move for the striker to Lyon had seemed likely, Rodgers declared before kick-off that no agreement had been reached. “We don’t want Moussa to go and I can’t see it happening,” he said. “There’s not a huge list of players that can come in and offer the same qualities Moussa gives us.”<doc-sep>
The Scottish champions will hope to redeem themselves by making no mistakes in their attempts to remain involved in European competition Celtic will hope to salvage some pride and take a step towards securing their place in the Europa League group stage when they take on Suduva Marijampole in the first leg of their play-off tie. Brendan Rodgers' men dropped into UEFA's second-tier club competition following their elimination from the Champions League qualifiers at the hands of AEK Athens last week, when they lost 3-2 on aggregate. The defeat is a major blow to the Scottish champions, who had been rubbing shoulders with Europe's elite at the continent's top table in the previous two seasons. In Suduva, they face another team who were dumped out of the Champions League, with the Lithuanian side losing to Red Star Belgrade in the second qualifying round. Game Suduva Marijampole vs Celtic Date Thursday, August 23 Time 6pm BST / 1pm ET TV Channel, Live Stream & How To Watch In the United States (US) the game will be not be shown live on television, but it is available to stream live online outside of the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland via Celtic TV. US TV channel Online stream N/A Celtic TV In the UK, the game can be viewed live on television on Premier Sports 1 and it can be streamed online using the Premier player. UK TV channel Online stream Premier Sports 1 Premier player Squads & Team News Position Suduva squad Goalkeepers Kardum, Aleksandrov-Ridley, Stebrys Defenders Cinikas, Gaiduchik, Isoda, Svrljuga, Zivanovic, Slavickas, Jankauskas Midfielders Leimonas, Matulevicius, Cadjenovic, Acevedo, Verbickas, Guilherme, Vezevicius, Offenbacher Forwards Kasparavicius, Topcagic, Cicilia Suduva will look to Brazilian midfielder Guilherme Finkler for inspiration, while striker Rigino Cicilia is their main goal threat and has already scored three goals in six European outings this season. As well as that, there are a number of Lithuania internationals in the squad, including former Zenit midfielder Ovidijus Verbickas. Potential Suduva XI: Kardum; Slavickas, Jankauskas, Gaiduchik, Svrljuga; Leimonas, Guilherme, Vezevicius, Cadjenovic, Verbickas; Cicilia. Position Celtic squad Goalkeepers Gordon, Bain, Hazard, Mullen Defenders J. Hendry, Simunovic, Gamboa, Boyata, Lustig, Compper, Ajer, Church, Duffy, Deas, McInroy, Ralston, Walsh, Tierney, Bell Midfielders Brown, Sinclair, Morgan, Rogic, Allan, Ntcham, Robertson, McGregor, Forrest, Henderson, Kennedy, McLaughlin, McKay, Marku, Kouassi Forwards Griffiths, Dembele, Hayes, Christie, Edouard, Miller, R. Hendry, Hill, McGrath, Diver, Johnston, Savoury, Aitchison Rodgers says that want-away defender Dedryk Boyata remains in contention to play despite discontent brewing over rejected bids for the Belgium international. Leigh Griffiths has returned to full fitness and will be vying for a starting position with Moussa Dembele and Odsonne Edouard. Potential Celtic XI: Gordon; Lustig, Simunovic, Hendry, Tierney; Brown, Forrest, McGregor, Ntcham, Rogic; Griffiths. Betting & Match Odds Celtic are strong favourites to triumph in the first leg, despite being away from home, with bet365 offering odds of 2/5 on a Bhoys victory. Suduva are priced at 15/2 to win and a draw is a 10/3 bet. Match Preview Failure to secure a place in the Champions League group stage this season has led to serious questions being asked of Rodgers and his future as Celtic manager. Missing out on a place in the final 32 of Europe's premier club competition means that the Scottish champions will have to make do without a significant financial boost and they will also lose some of their allure in the transfer market as players consider the pros and cons of joining the Glasgow club. Article continues below However, their elimination blow has been softened somewhat by the chance of taking a proverbial 'back-door' entry into the Europa League, which is a competition they will feel capable of going far in. Off-field issues surrounding key players seeking an exit have not helped amid a run of disappointing results, but Rodgers managed to steady the ship with a convincing 3-1 win over Partick Thistle in the League Cup. With season targets now shifting, the Bhoys will be desperate to take the advantage in Marijampole ahead of the second leg at Celtic Park, where Rodgers and Co. can dispel any lingering doubts.
Protesters who interrupted the president during his rally with supporters in Duluth, Minnesota, got the Donald Trump treatment. "Oh we have a single protester, there we go. Goodbye, darling," Trump said as his supporters in their red "Make America Great Again" hats cheered. "So we have a single protester, he's going home to his mom. Say hello to mommy. And tomorrow, the fake news will say tomorrow, massive protests at the Trump rally. One person. Massive protests." A couple of minutes later, another protester appeared in the crowd holding up a photo of Trump with his former friend Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced billionaire financier and convicted pedophile. On the picture of the two men was the caption: "Who is Jeffrey Epstein?" "Get 'em outta here. Go home to your mom, darling. Go home," Trump said as security made their way to the man, who was near to Trump at the front of the crowd. Trump supporters booed as the man was escorted through the rally, still holding up the photo of Trump and Epstein, and chanted "USA!" "Was that a man or a woman because he needs a haircut more than I do?" Trump said as his fans cheered. "Couldn't tell, couldn't tell. I couldn't tell. Needs a haircut." Though his administration is under permanent siege because of the myriad scandals and controversies in which it is entangled, Trump is facing intense criticism over the issue of undocumented children separated from their families by border officials. In April, under Trump's "zero tolerance" practice for illegal immigration, Attorney General Jeff Sessions ordered that all those found crossing the southern border unlawfully be taken immediately for prosecution. This meant any children accompanying undocumented adults crossing the border—their family members or guardians—were separated from them. The adults are taken for prosecution and the children—including toddlers and babies—are sent alone to detention centers. Reports, images and audio from those detention centers show traumatized children crying out for their parents, huddled in cages and sleeping under space blankets. Around 2,000 children have been split from their families since the practice started being enforced. Officials defended separating children, saying they are upholding the law. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said she would not apologize for doing her job. Read more: Children Crying at U.S. Border and Sitting in Cages: Trump's Separation Policy in Pictures But under serious pressure from congressional Republicans as well as his usual critics and opponents, Trump signed an executive order preventing the separation of undocumented children from the adults with whom they crossed the border. "We are keeping families together; this will solve that problem," Trump said at the Oval Office signing on Wednesday. At the Minnesota rally he added: "Today I signed an executive order; we're gonna keep families together. But the border is gonna be just as tough as it's been. "Democrats don't care about the impact of uncontrolled migration on your communities, your schools, your hospitals, your jobs, or your safety. Democrats put illegal immigrants before they put American citizens. What the hell is going on?" This story was updated to include more comments made by Trump at the rally.<doc-sep>President Donald Trump is holding a rally in Duluth, Minnesota, Wednesday evening, marking his first visit to the state since a campaign rally shortly before the 2016 election. The rally, scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m., has been moved to the AMSOIL Arena to accommodate a larger crowd. Before the rally, Trump is expected to meet with mining industry representatives and elected leaders for a roundtable discussion. U.S. Representative Jason Lewis and U.S. Representative Tom Emmer will be attending. Advertisement In light of the growing controversy over the U.S. Department of Justice’s new “zero tolerance” immigration policy, some Minnesotans are planning protests outside the rally in Duluth.<doc-sep>President Trump made his first visit to Minnesota since winning The Oval Office when he held a roundtable and rally in Duluth on Wednesday night. DULUTH, Minn. - President Trump made his first visit to Minnesota since winning The Oval Office when he held a roundtable and rally in Duluth on Wednesday night. The White House said President Trump was originally expected to arrive in Duluth around 4:35 p.m. but was delayed. Air Force One landed at the Duluth Air National Guard Base just before 5 p.m. From there, President Trump held a roundtable event with about a dozen elected officials as well as representatives from the mining and steel industry. The discussion was billed as "promoting and protecting American workers." Topics ranged from immigration and trade to health care and national security. Trump told those at Duluth Cargo Connect that "billions" are "pouring into the Treasury" as a result of his trade decisions. @potus: “Make America great again. And that’s what we’re doing. For our next campaign we have a new slogan... KEEP AMERICA GREAT.” #TrumpDuluth pic.twitter.com/akwmBqoH3D — Nikki Muehlhausen (@NikkiKARE11) June 20, 2018 The rally was originally set to be held at DECC Arena but was moved to AMSOIL Arena due to high demand. The Duluth Fire Marshal told a pool reporter the arena holds about 9,000 people and it appeared to be full, with hundreds of people left outside waiting to get in. So sorry, people wanting to get into the already packed arena - I LOVE YOU ALL! pic.twitter.com/PFvXrsvgkA — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 20, 2018 Pete Stauber, the Republican running in Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District, took a turn at the stage early on. “Mr. President, these people support you,” Stauber said to a roar of applause. “We need more Republicans,” Trump said. “We’ve got to get out there in the midterms.” Trump also addressed the executive order he signed earlier Wednesday that will stop the separation of families caught crossing the border illegally. He says the U.S. has the "weakest" and "most pathetic immigration laws anywhere in the world." But he says things have to be done with "compassion." Trump narrowly lost Minnesota in 2016 and jokes that he would have won if he had made just one more speech. He says he has no doubt he'll win in 2020. Trump said his administration is “taking first steps” to open the Superior National Forest to mineral exploration. The president also raised the North Korea summit, calling it an “incredible success.” He predicted that “Chairman Kim will turn that country into a great, successful country.” Trump said “right now, you are so safe” because of the summit. Protests were also held in response to the President's "Make America Great Again" rally. A handful of protestors were also booed as they were led out of the arena throughout the course of the rally. Trump protesters are beginning to gather outside the Duluth courthouse ahead of the rally. pic.twitter.com/cw8g9rKHG2 — KARE 11 (@kare11) June 20, 2018 A "Blue Wave 2018 Rise and Resist" protest is gathered on the Duluth lakewalk less than a mile east of the #TrumpDuluth rally pic.twitter.com/yWIuJKI1RF — KARE 11 (@kare11) June 21, 2018<doc-sep>
A number of counter protest events will be held in the city. President Donald Trump will arrive in Duluth tomorrow for a rally in front of thousands of supporters, while counter-protesters demonstrate elsewhere on city streets. The president is holding a "Make America Great Again" rally at 8,500-capacity Amsoil Arena, with doors opening at 3:30 p.m. and the event getting underway at 6:30 p.m. The Trump campaign's decision to appear in Duluth comes ahead of what is expected to be another incredibly tight 8th Congressional District election this November, particularly with DFL Rep. Rick Nolan retiring. Before the rally, the White House has announced that Trump will attend a round-table event with four local elected officials, six representatives from the mining and steel industry and Republican U.S. Reps. Tom Emmer and Jason Lewis. The discussion is billed as "promoting and protecting American workers." Notable by his absence is Rep. Erik Paulsen, who had in recent days stated opposition to some of the president's policies, namely the separation of immigrant children from their families near the Mexican border. Counter protests planned On the day of the rally, there will be a number of counter-protests going on in Duluth in opposition to the president's administration. A list of the events, which started on Monday, continued on Tuesday and will culminate on Wednesday, can be found on the Forward Coalition Facebook page. There will be a march past the president's motorcade before a rally at the Duluth Civic Center 4:30-6:30 p.m. At the same time, a Soulstice Peace Rally, billed as a non-partisan event, will be held at Leif Erickson Park. Also planned is a Blue Wave Rise and Resist Rally from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lake Place Park.
She is Kim Jong-un’s closest confidante – a trusted member of the North Korean ruling dynasty who has shadowed her elder brother during every step of his transformation from nuclear pariah to statesman. As Kim made the long train journey from Pyongyang to Hanoi for his second denuclearisation summit with Donald Trump, Kim Yo-jong was by his side again – this time with an ashtray. Footage captured by the Japanese TV network TBS shows Kim Jong-un, a heavy smoker, taking a pre-dawn cigarette break on Tuesday at Nanning railway station in southern China during his 70-hour journey to Vietnam for his two-day meeting with the US president. Kim Jong Un had a cigarette break this morning at Nanning station in China. Kim Yo Jong can be seen carrying an ashtray for him. Hyon Song Wol also visible in one shot. Pics from TBS Japanhttps://t.co/3imj1VnugQ pic.twitter.com/gu3cATjjiK — Chad O'Carroll (@chadocl) February 26, 2019 His craving apparently satisfied, he walks towards his sister, who is holding out what appears to be a crystal ashtray into which he places his cigarette butt. Also seen on the platform is Hyon Song-wol, a member of North Korea’s ruling party elite and the leader of the famous Moranbong girl band handpicked by Kim. Hyon’s inclusion in Kim’s delegation has raised speculation that cultural events could be part of the agreements reached between Washington and Pyongyang this week as they look for easier steps to improve relations. Official photographs often show Kim with a cigarette dangling between his fingers, even on a visit to an orphanage and, in July 2017, while standing next to a liquid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile shortly before its test launch. But he was forced to go without during his first meeting with the South Korean president, Moon Jae-in, just south of their countries’ heavily armed border last April. Over the course of their meetings, Kim did not light up once in Moon’s presence, apparently out of respect for his South Korean counterpart, who is 31 years his senior. Reports said Kim succumbed just once, quietly slipping out of the crowded banquet hall in the evening to smoke in a separate room. Kim Yo-jong, who holds senior positions in the Workers’ party of Korea, has been a visible presence throughout the high-stakes diplomatic process that will continue in Hanoi from Wednesday. She represented Kim at the start of last year’s Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea and was present at the second inter-Korean summit last May. And when Kim and Trump agreed to work towards the denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula during their first meeting in Singapore last June, the North Korean leader insisted on signing the joint statements with his own pen, handed to him – cap removed – by his sister.<doc-sep>It’s hard keeping up with Kim Jong Un. The North Korean despot arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday after enduring an almost 70-hour train ride through southern China, but one of his aides seemed unprepared for the big red carpet arrival. Kim was captured on video disembarking his green-and-yellow armored train Tuesday at Dong Dang station along the China-Vietnam border and walking down a red carpet rolled out for his arrival ahead of his second summit with President Trump. TRUMP LANDS IN VIETNAM FOR KIM JONG UN SUMMIT As Kim stops to talk to Vietnamese officials who came to greet him, an aide is seen frantically dashing after the leader and catching up just as handshakes were being exchanged. The aide, who was identified as Kim’s interpreter, appeared flustered and worried after the arrival hiccup. TRUMP, KIM JONG UN'S VIETNAM SUMMIT JOINS LONG LIST OF KEY MOMENTS BETWEEN WORLD LEADERS: A TIMELINE South Korean media compared the interpreter to Usain Bolt after video of his desperate sprint to catch up with Kim went viral. Trump landed in Hanoi Tuesday night hours after Kim’s arrival. The leaders are set to meet on Wednesday and Thursday for the second U.S.-North Korea summit, where they are expected to discuss North Korea’s pledge to denuclearization that reached a stalemate since the June summit. North Korea has repeatedly said it will never give up its nuclear weapons unless the U.S. removed its nuclear threat first and lift sanctions crippling its economy. NORTH KOREA AND KIM JONG UN: MEET THE KNOWN KEY PLAYERS IN THE REGIME Several other topics are expected to come up during the two-day summit, including bringing back the rest of the remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the Korean War. North Korea turned over 55 boxes of presumed remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the Korean War as part of the agreement from the June summit. There’s also growing speculation that Trump may offer an announcement of peace and a formal end to the Korean War if he can convince Kim to commit to denuclearization. The Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice, essentially a cease-fire signed by North Korea, China and the 17-nation, U.S.-led United Nations Command that was supposed to be replaced by a formal peace treaty. But both sides instead settled ever deeper into Cold War hostilities marked by occasional outbreaks of violence. Despite the few concrete outcomes from the first historic summit, North Korea has toned down its rhetoric — relatively — toward the U.S. There has not been a missile or nuclear test for more than a year and Kim said during his New Year's Day address that his country will no longer "create, test, use, or proliferate nuclear weapons." Trump also tweeted Monday before boarding Air Force One that he's "looking forward to a very productive summit." Kim departed Pyongyang on Saturday by train with several officials including Kim Yong Chol, who has been a key negotiator in talks with the U.S., and Kim Yo Jong, the leader's sister. The train that reportedly travels a speed of 35 miles per hour covered nearly 2,500 miles by the time it reached the railway station. Kim was greeted with a bouquet of flowers on a patterned red carpet lined with a Vietnamese honor guard and the five-pointed communist-starred flags of North Korea and Vietnam. He then switched to a black limousine for the final 105-mile drive to Hanoi. The despot’s entourage included his running bodyguards, who also made an appearance at the first U.S.-North Korea summit in Singapore in June. The bodyguards surrounded Kim’s massive bulletproof Mercedes like a human shield as it traveled in Hanoi. Kim’s arrival also suffered another setback on Tuesday. KIM JONG UN'S TRAIN TRAVEL TO VIETNAM HIDDEN BY CHINESE CENSORS Just before the North Korean dictator’s motorcade arrived at the Hanoi’s Melia Hotel, the White House press corps was booted out of the luxury establishment and moved to a different building. Kim was coincidentally booked to stay at Melia hotel, where the White House also made accommodations for the American reporters, cameraman and photographers. The hotel was intended to be a filing center during the summit. The Vietnamese government then tweeted it will be moving the White House press corps to another hotel. "FYI: the American Media Center will be relocated from Melia hotel to International Media Center at 91 Tran Hung Dao Hanoi#DPRKUSA #HanoiSummit," the tweet read. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Fox News' Adam Shaw, Madeline Farber and The Associated Press contributed to this report.<doc-sep>For Kim, it’s possible that the international media attention is already a bit of a drag — and indeed, the Vietnamese government may be keen to limit press access, too. After it turned out that Kim was staying in the same hotel as the traveling press corps’ media center, the journalists were kicked out: The Post’s David Nakamura reported that a witness saw a North Korean official yell at the Vietnamese security staff, ordering them to stop journalists from photographing or even looking at Kim’s entourage.<doc-sep>
SEOUL, South Korea — It's unclear whether North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is going to give up his nukes anytime soon, and the same could probably be said for his cigarettes. Footage by Japan's TBS TV showed Kim, a habitual smoker, taking a pre-dawn cigarette break Tuesday at a train station in China hours before his arrival in Vietnam for his high-stakes summit with President Donald Trump over resolving the international standoff over the North's nuclear weapons and missiles. The video showed Kim puffing a cigarette and talking with North Korean officials at China's Nanning rail station. A woman who appeared to be his sister Kim Yo Jong, one of the most powerful individuals in North Korea, is seen holding a crystal ashtray. Also seen on the platform is Hyon Song Wol, a North Korean ruling party elite and the leader of the famous Moranbong girl band handpicked by Kim Jong Un. Hyon's inclusion in Kim's delegation has raised speculation that cultural events could be part of the agreements reached between Washington and Pyongyang this week as they look for easier steps to improve relations. Kim arrived in Vietnam on Tuesday after an almost 70-hour train ride that cut through southern China. While it remains unclear why Kim chose to travel thousands of miles through China instead of flying into Hanoi, some experts say he could have intended to showcase North Korea's ties with its major ally China, a crucial leverage in his negotiations with Trump. Kim, who has modeled his leadership style after his charismatic grandfather Kim Il Sung, also could have tried to inspire nostalgia among North Koreans about their state founder, who frequently traveled on trains. Despite pushing an anti-smoking campaign in North Korea, Kim is frequently seen with a cigarette in his hands. In July 2017, North Korea's state broadcaster showed him casually smoking in front of one of his liquid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles as it underwent preparations for a test launch. State media also showed Kim and North Korean officials laughing and lighting up cigarettes following the success of the North's last ICBM test in November 2017.
Despite a few last-minute twists, "Ozark" can't find its former legs in an anticlimactic ending. [Editor’s Note: The following review contains spoilers for “Ozark” Season 2, including the ending. For a spoiler-free review, read IndieWire’s initial reaction.] If the first season of “Ozark” saw the Byrde family in denial about their circumstances and trying to bargain their way to freedom, then the second season moves through depression and into acceptance. The Kübler-Ross model for processing grief may not seem like a fitting comparison for a family sent spiraling from one catastrophe to the next, but remember this: That model isn’t actually for processing grief; it’s for people who know they’re going to die, and that seems about right for Marty (Jason Bateman) and Wendy (Laura Linney), if a bit dark for their two kids. Under this framework, the ending is reasonable, but it’s also indicative of what went wrong with Season 2. Chris Mundy’s thrilling first season hit the gas so hard it feels like these new episodes are constantly slamming on the brakes, for fear of running out of road. The results are less exciting: Marty promised he’d build a casino, and he pulled it off. Yes, the exposition made it clear this was a difficult task, but his back-door bartering didn’t evoke the same tension as his life-or-death decisions made in Season 1. Wendy, meanwhile, broke bad like Walter White. “This is who I am, and this is who I want to be,” is a line fans will be wrestling with for some time, since, despite 10 full hours to find it, Season 2 didn’t provide much motivation for Wendy’s turn. Naturally, there’s less tension in watching someone accept their fate instead of rebelling against it. But when that person is part of a high-octane series and their acceptance is largely unjustified, reactions shift from complacency to frustration. That’s where “Ozark” leaves us, with Wendy as the new boss and Marty a reluctant tag-along; seeing a role reversal favoring a woman in power would be exciting (after all, it’s Laura Linney) except it’s a hollow switch used to elongate the story more than a believable choice. When Wendy says, “It’s always better to be the person holding the gun than the person running from the gunman,” it’s hard to imagine anyone exclaiming, “Oh, yeah! I see why Wendy enjoys her role as an executioner.” Jessica Miglio/Netflix Still, that’s not to say Season 3 isn’t set up for fireworks. Charlotte (Sofia Hublitz) could be emancipated, now that she’s got her dad on her side. How Ruth (Julia Garner) responds to her father’s murder is anyone’s guess, and the same can be said for how Darlene (Lisa Emery) will run her end of the business without Jacob (Peter Mullan) to keep her flights of fury in check. Oh, and the Kansas City mob is clearly pissed at Marty for screwing with their union jobs, as evidenced by them blowing up his office. That’s plenty to build from, but the main characters’ growth (or lack thereof) informs what’s next just as much, if not more. So at the close of Season 2, here’s where everyone ends up: Wendy Byrde Wendy has assumed control of the empire. With Janet McTeer’s lawyer headed back to Chicago and the Snells neutralized (for now), Wendy has the political power and means to wield it. She’s taken a step the cartel’s attorney said she can’t come back from: killing. Wendy had Ruth’s father, Cade (Trevor Long), murdered rather than let him muck up the business, and she’s looking to go after Darlene next. It’s a stark contrast to where she was at the start of the season. In the first episode, Wendy confronts Marty about their moral responsibility for everything that’s happened. She just wants him to admit “it’s been good” for them, and, at the time, it’s clear Marty barely believes what he’s saying and Wendy isn’t abiding one bit of it. Still, after pushing politics to their extreme (a Missouri representative killed himself after being pressured to abstain on the casino vote), standing tall to pressure from local political powerhouse Charlie (Darren Goldstein) and the wayward FBI Agent Petty (Jason Butler Harner), and repeatedly making decisions for the family without consulting Marty, Wendy has built up the confidence to ride this life into the sunset. Or so she thinks. One could make the argument things really changed for Wendy when she’s kidnapped by Mason (Michael Mosley) and survives. Seeing the evil in a man who claims to be close with God — and has a baby to care for — may have pushed Wendy past her emotional headspace into a rational one; if he could do all that, what’s stopping anyone else? What’s stopping her? She saw her life on the line and lived. Now, she’s done being on the other end of the knife, negotiating for her life. …eh. That logic only adds up if you really want it to, and there are still doubts. Wendy isn’t fascinated by the darkness (a la Walter White) or delighting in her power (like so many bad men before her); she’s comfortable in her role. She trusts the cartel to have their back, and that’s a rocky bed to sleep in. If anything, the fickle nature of their decision-making should show Wendy why they’re not to be trusted, just as her less-than-convincing quote about who she wants to be falls apart under the slightest scrutiny: “It’s always better to be the person holding the gun than the person running from the gunman” — a line that just as easily could be, “It’s always better to kill than be killed.” Marty wants to leave killing behind, but why doesn’t Wendy want that anymore? Fear, misplaced trust, or whatever the reason, it’s not defined enough to make her conviction compelling. Jessica Miglio/Netflix Marty Byrde If Wendy went from the bottom to the top, then Marty’s arc took him from the peak of the roller coaster to its most terrorizing depths.<doc-sep>The Byrde family tries in vain to push forward with their plans, just as the show can't keep the momentum that made Season 1 so thrilling. “Ozark” Season 1 made so many bold choices, so quickly, that Season 2 was bound to slow things down. Engaging viewers with the escalating series of crises Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) and his family had to deal with immediately, the Netflix drama ate up a ton of narrative to provide its breakneck pace. Now that the ex-suburbanites have their backwoods criminal enterprise up and sailing, instead of plugging holes in a sinking ship, a steadier, more character-driven story comes with the territory. But the degree to which “Ozark” slams on the breaks is disconcerting; the downshift in pacing creates an antsy viewing experience that transitions into blandness, as the follow-up season spends nearly seven hours setting up a moral turning point it could’ve easily implemented much sooner. While still a sharp, attentive, and altogether capable drama, the benefits of a successful first season don’t transfer to the Byrdes in Season 2 — or viewers watching them. By all accounts, “Ozark” Season 2 looked like it was going to be (to use a colloquialism formalized by “Friends”) “The One With the Casino.” At the end of Season 1, Marty and Wendy successfully brokered a deal between Omar Navarro’s Mexican cartel and the local drug lords known as the Snells. The cartel will buy the heroin locally, rather than lose 20 percent from smuggling it over the border, and Marty’s proposed riverboat casino would launder the fresh influx of cash. That the finale also features Darlene Snell taking umbrage with Camino “Del” Rio’s flippant use of the word “redneck” — and shooting him in the head — well, that may or may not get in the way of the deal. Jessica Miglio/Netflix Without spoiling anything the trailers haven’t already put out there, the casino is a prevalent topic and objective in Season 2, but it’s not a defining element of the episodes. The cartel sends their highly trusted and unflinching lawyer to town (played by the highly trusted and unflinching Janet McTeer), Wendy puts her political lobbying skills to good work with Missouri’s big-wig congressional influencer, and Marty tries to keep the peace between his testy new partners. FBI Agent Petty (Jason Butler Harner) keeps investigating (though his arc is more professionally focused, and less personally raw), and audiences might see a bit more of Blue Cat Lodge owner Rachel Garrison (Jordana Spiro). Throughout, thematic buttons from Season 1 are pushed once more; the Byrde children, Charlotte (Sofia Hublitz) and Jonah (Skylar Gaertner), find new ways to illustrate their decaying ethical standards in the wake of their parents’ sins; fan-favorite Ruth Langmore (Julia Garner) keeps trying to forge a viable life for her working-class family within Marty’s world of wealth, which now includes her recently released father; Marty and Wendy check in on their status as business partners vs. husband and wife. What the season does best in its first eight episodes is utilize its gradual pace to dwell on Wendy’s burgeoning power (and her comfort with it) while examining Marty’s opposite reaction to his newfound importance to both a Mexican cartel and Missouri drug farmer. Bateman remains excellent in the role; though his character’s actions can be ever so slightly manipulated to serve the plot, the actor regularly finds subtle, natural reactions to illustrate where Marty’s at emotionally. Linney similarly enlivens her part, pushing Wendy to new territory with ease and taking command with relish when called upon. Jessica Miglio/Netflix Showrunner Chris Mundy is carefully pushing both lead characters toward conscious acknowledgment of who they’ve become: The decisions they made in Season 1 have consequences, and while things were moving too quickly to consider their wide-spreading ramifications before, now the Byrdes have to face what they’ve done. Still, the decisions are simply more exciting than the consideration, especially when that means putting off inevitable actions. There’s a scene near the season’s midway point where a guy holds someone at gunpoint; this happens a lot in Season 2 (and “Ozark” overall), so the action itself is far from a spoiler, but it’s still notable. Given the circumstances, the characters involved, and the precedent set by the many, many cold-blooded kills in Season 1, this should be a moment packed with tension. No one watching wants this person to die, but the guy with a gun sure does, and “Ozark” spent its entire first season proving how willing it was to pull the trigger. In Season 2, it’s not. By this point, it’s clear “Ozark” isn’t going to go that far anymore — or, at least, viewers have been conditioned to expect a more cautious approach. Before, “Ozark” was winningly reckless. Now, it’s too safe for its own good. Pulling the trigger isn’t about killing off a character for the shock value; it’s about forward momentum. Season 2 lacks urgency beside the basic danger of the Byrdes’ continuing their work in order to escape it, and glimpses inside Marty and Wendy’s moral outlooks aren’t compelling enough to make up for the lack of action. All of this may help “Ozark” last an extra two or three seasons, but it dulls the series’ once-vibrant darkness into a murky, stagnant lake. Grade: C+ “Ozark” Season 2 premieres August 31 on Netflix. Sign Up: Stay on top of the latest breaking film and TV news! Sign up for our Email Newsletters here.<doc-sep>Ozark The Gold Coast Season 2 Episode 10 Editor’s Rating 4 stars * * * * « Previous Next » Photo: Tina Rowden/Netflix/Tina Rowden/Netflix Now that the season is over, it’s time to look back at the entire second season of Ozark and ask two key questions: What was it really about and was it any good? As for the first question, the theme of deadly family ties has been a part of both seasons, amplified this year by the presence of Cade Langmore, the worthless sociopath who basically tried to destroy everyone who gave even the smallest damn about him. Death hung heavy this year as Mason Young, Jimmy ‘Buddy’ Small, Jacob Snell, FBI Agent Roy Petty, and Cade Langmore all shuffled off this mortal coil. And here’s something that perhaps no one considered until the end of the season, maybe not even her husband: Was their fatal mistake entering the life of Wendy Byrde? If the first season of Ozark was about Marty Byrde running from powerful crime figures, the second was about his wife Wendy realizing she wanted to become one herself. When did she know? Did the political capital given her by Charlie Wilkes help her realize how much she could do in the Ozarks? Did she look at Helen Pearce and Darlene Snell and realize women can rule in this world? Whenever it happened, the final scenes of this season make it clear that Wendy Byrde is ready to be Queen. She destroys Marty Byrde’s well-laid plans to leave the same day that the casino operation finally opens, basically telling him that they’re not going anywhere. And as he realizes that she had Cade Langmore gunned down in the street and left for dead like a dog, he knows he’s stuck. He may eventually leave, but he’s not leaving with his family. As it was last season, the finale of Ozark was about tying up loose ends, including ending the lives of two of its most violent, awful characters. First, Cade Langmore beat Roy Petty to death with his own tackle box. There’s something poignant about the fact that Petty wouldn’t have even been there if not or his connection with Russ last season. But now he’s at the bottom of the river with a few rocks in his pockets. Near the end, the authorities find his car, and they will find his body. Will this come back to Cade or could someone else get in trouble? And will the writers replace Petty with another lunatic lawman next season? Of course, the other big loose end was Cade himself, who was incredibly close to getting away with his insanity. Sure, his daughter almost shot him and he dragged Charlotte Byrde across the ground, but he got a bag of cash from Wendy Byrde and drove away singing along to “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” before taking a few shots to the chest. Wendy set him up. He was not going to get away at all, much less with her money. It almost raises the question as to whether or not baby Zeke is better off out of the Byrde household. Yes, Mason Young’s son going to the woman who killed his wife is something we saw coming a few recaps ago, but it was still interesting to watch it play out. Darlene Snell made it clear, especially after shaving Jonah Byrde’s head, that it was the only solution, and so Marty took it. And he did so without telling Wendy. It’s interesting to consider if not being looped in on that decision led to the one Wendy made at the end of the episode when she insisted on staying. She always likes to one-up people. So, where are we? Ruth Langmore is free — free of the guilt about killing her uncles, free of her father’s horrible influence. Marty gave her all of his trust and all of his cash, but how will she respond when they don’t leave? Will she remain a part of the power structure or get pushed out by Wendy? Let’s not forget about Frank Cosgrove, the head of the Kansas City mob who is none too happy with Marty right now. He even blows up the offices of Byrde Enterprises. Is he the main villain of season three? Despite seeing her in a tender moment singing “Walk the Line” to her new son, it seems unlikely Darlene Snell is all smiles and kisses next year too. And have we seen the last of Helen Pearce, saying that she’s headed back to Chicago, but maybe she sticks around? What about the Byrde kids? Marty basically tells Charlotte to run at the end of the season, knowing that emancipation may save her life. And Jonah seems to be falling deeper into the family business. Most importantly, was this season a good one? Yes and no. Despite a flurry of activity — and remarkable amount of carnage in the supporting cast — the pace sagged sometimes and the writing sometimes felt cheap. There’s a difference between hurried and exciting, and Ozark sometimes felt like it was throwing plot twists in just to feed the machine. The loss of so many characters may actually be good for Ozark, allowing it to focus a bit more next year. They’d be smart to cut back an episode or two and realize that not every episode needs to run 60 minutes or more. The performances were once again the show’s strongest asset, particularly Jason Bateman, Janet McTeer, Peter Mullan, Jordana Spiro, and the show’s MVP two seasons in a row, Julia Garner. What of Laura Linney? The performance felt a little inconsistent at times, but that’s more a product of writing than acting. If the show fulfills on this year’s set-up and Wendy really becomes the Queen of the criminal empire in the Ozarks, that could be fun to watch the Oscar nominee really sink her teeth into. Over all, it feels like Ozark is pretty much, more or less, where it was at the end of season one in terms of quality.<doc-sep>Ozark season two trailer starring Jason Bateman FREE now for the biggest moments from morning TV SUBSCRIBE Invalid email Sign up fornow for the biggest moments from morning TV When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Season three of Ozark arrived recently with 10 new episodes with viewers racing through. Nevertheless, many have lots of fans have lots of questions. Here's a look at one of the former characters of the show and how her child baby Zeke is still very much part of the story. Trending WARNING: This article contains spoilers from season 1 & 2 of Ozark Season two of Ozark picked up right where it left off with the Byrde family coming back to Missouri with a new plan to save themselves from the Mexican cartel. The second season of the Netflix hit also saw lots of loose ends tied up. Sadly, Pastor Mason Young (played by Michael Mosley) learnt the truth about his wife Grace (Bethany Anne Lind). He previously thought his wife had upped and left him and their baby son out of the blue. READ MORE: Ozark: Why did Jacob Snell star Peter Mullan really leave the series? Grace Young in Ozark met a tragic end Grace Young in Ozark met a tragic end READ MORE Ozark: What photo makes Ben angry while he is teaching? What happened to Grace in Ozark? As fans will remember from season one, Grace was taken by the Snells but we never saw what happened to her in the final moments of her life. All we know is that the baby she was carrying was left for her husband Mason. In season two Mason finally discovered in episode seven - titled One Way Out - the truth about Grace after he kidnapped Wendy (Laura Linney). While Mason held her hostage, Wendy revealed that Grace hadn’t just left him and that she was killed by the Snells because she posed a threat to their heroin business. READ MORE: Ozark season 4 Netflix release date: Will there be another series? Grace Young in Ozark met a tragic end Jason Bateman and Laura Linney in Ozark season 2 Grace’s bones turned up in the soil of the Snells’ burnt poppy field after the FBI launched an investigation into the couple and started quite literally digging around. However, the Byrdes bribed the medical examiners to ensure that the remains only revealed DNA from the Snells, which would fit with their story about their ancestors being buried on the farm. In reality, it’s highly likely that her remains along with those of other people that the Snells have killed over the years are on the farm. Sadly, there was no chance for Mason to get justice after Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) panicked and accidentally shot him dead. READ MORE: Ozark season 3 final scene explained: Was Helen's fate confirmed? The pair then disposed of Mason’s body and cared for his baby son Zeke, before eventually handing the child over to Darlene Snell (Lisa Emery) in exchange for ensuring that the casino business went ahead. It was a sick twist of irony as the person responsible for the death of Zeke’s mother was now going to be caring for him. Although this loose end involving Grace has now been tied up, it’s very likely that someone is going to get suspicious about Grace and Mason disappearing without a trace. If season three does get the green light from Netflix, the death of the Masons is probably going to come back to haunt Marty and Wendy. Wendy also suggested that she would be fighting Darlene to get the child back. DON'T MISS... Ozark cast: Who plays Frank Cosgrove Jr? Meet Power star Joseph Sikora [EXPLAINER] Ozark season 2 recap: What happened in the last series of Ozark? [EXPLAINER] Ozark season 2: What happened to Rachel Garrison in Ozark? [EXPLAINER]<doc-sep>
Ozark season two trailer starring Jason Bateman Season three of Ozark was released on Netflix recently with 10 more episodes. The new series came after nearly two years. Season three picked up six months after where it left off. Express.co.uk has a refresher of the main plot points from series two. Trending What happened at the end of Ozark season 2? Season two of Ozark landed on Netflix on Friday, August 31 and picked up straight from the events of the last episode. Ozark fans were left on the edge of their seats for another 10 episodes as the Byrde family struggled to make their latest venture float in a bid to keep the Mexican cartel off their backs. The second season saw Marty (played by Jason Bateman) and Wendy Byrde (Laura Linney) launching a brand new casino in a bid to make money for the cartel. They were also contending with a whole host of other characters. But what happened in the last episode of the season? READ MORE: Ozark: Why did Jacob Snell star Peter Mullan really leave the series? Ozark season 2 ended with lots of open ends Jason Bateman and Laura Linney in Ozark season 2 READ MORE Ozark plot hole: Fan baffled by forgotten Kansas City Mob plot WARNING: This article contains major spoilers from Ozark season 2 The Langmores Episode 10 of Ozark season two was titled Gold Coast and hinted that the family could once and for all escape the cartel and build a new life for themselves Down Under - sadly it was anything but straightforward. The instalment started off with Marty getting passport photos made as he put in motion his plans to move his family away from Missouri. He had even made his lieutenant Ruth Langmore (Julia Garner) his successor, showing her the ropes of his myriad of businesses. Despite Ruth finally getting the respect and responsibility that she’d been craving from Marty, her father Cade Langmore (Trevor Long) threw a spanner in the works when he started insisting that his daughter found her boss’s money. The fiercely loyal Ruth refused, leading to her father grow even angrier at her - and more importantly more desperate. When his words fell on deaf ears, Cade went to FBI agent Roy Petty (Jason Butler Harmer) to try to persuade him that he could take down Marty. Jason Bateman as Marty Byrde in Ozark season 2 Again, he was ignored, resulting in Cade getting violent with the FBI agent and killing him. In his panic, he went back to Ruth to provide him with an alibi which she wouldn’t do. He tried to blackmail his daughter by threatening to reveal to Wyatt (Charlie Tahan) who had really killed his father. In the end, Ruth confessed everything to a brokenhearted Wyatt. Cade was even more fraught. He eventually found himself sitting in a diner with Wendy, who convinced him to leave town with half a million dollars in a holdall. He obliged Wendy but sadly it didn’t end well with Cade killed on the road out of town and the bag of cash taken - in payment for the killing. Ruth was later seen bidding farewell to her father as she looked over his corpse in the morgue. Will she be prompted to take revenge on Marty? READ MORE: Ozark season 4 Netflix release date: Will there be another series? Julia Gardner as Ruth Langmore in Ozark season 2 The Snells Darlene (Lisa Emery) revealed that her beloved husband Jacob (Peter Mullan) had suddenly died and said his “heart failed him”. Darlene bumped off Jacob with some cyanide so that she could have her way with their business. She went on to tell Wendy that Jacob’s dying wish was that the casino wouldn’t go ahead and that she would make sure his deathbed “epiphany” was honoured. To make sure the Byrdes knew she was serious, she kidnapped their son Jonah (Skylar Gaertner) and shaved half his head. In order to pacify Darlene and to stop her from doing anything further, Marty went behind Wendy’s back and gave pastor Mason Young’s (Michael Mosley) baby son Zeke which seemed to work. But Wendy revealed at the end that she would fight tooth and nail to get the baby back. READ MORE: Ozark explained: What was really going on between Ruth and Cade?
What to do when food is recalled (CNN) — Tyson Foods has significantly expanded a recall of its chicken strips over concerns that some might be contaminated with pieces of metal, federal food safety officials said Friday. The recall affects about 69,093 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products produced on November 30, 2018, the US Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said in a news release. In the previous recall, the products had only one use-by date: November 30, 2019. All affected products have a use-by date of November 30, 2019. The Food Safety and Inspection Service said it initially discovered the problem because of two consumer complaints about extraneous materials in chicken strip products. In January, Tyson recalled 36,420 pounds of chicken nuggets after a consumer reported finding rubber in the chicken nuggets. Also in January, Perdue issued a recall after receiving three complaints from consumers who reported finding wood in gluten-free chicken nuggets. There have been no confirmed reports of illness or injury from consumption of these products, FSIS said. CNN’s Joe Sutton contributed to this report.<doc-sep>Approximately 69,093 pounds of frozen chicken strips have been recalled by Tyson Foods, Inc. because the products may be contaminated with metal, the United States Department of Agriculture announced Thursday. The affected products include buffalo and crispy style ready-to-eat products that were produced on Nov. 30, 2018, the release says. All recalled products have a "best if used by" date of Nov. 30, 2019 and have the establishment number “P-7221” printed on the back of the product package. In a similar recall announced in late January, more than 36,000 pounds of Tyson chicken nuggets were recalled because of a possible rubber contamination. Products recalled Thursday include ones marked: "Tyson fully cooked buffalo style chicken strips Chicken breast strip fritters with rib meat and buffalo style sauce" – sold in 25 ounce plastic bags. These recalled products are marked with case codes 3348CNQ0317 and 3348CNQ0318. These recalled products are marked with case codes 3348CNQ0317 and 3348CNQ0318. "Tyson fully cooked crispy chicken strips Chicken breast strip fritters with rib meat" – sold in 25 ounce plastic bags. These recalled products are marked with case codes 3348CNQ0419, 3348CNQ0420, 3348CNQ0421, and 3348CNQ0422. These recalled products are marked with case codes 3348CNQ0419, 3348CNQ0420, 3348CNQ0421, and 3348CNQ0422. "Spare time fully cooked, buffalo style chicken strips Chicken breast strip fritters with rib meat and buffalo style sauce" – sold in 20 pound frozen cases. These recalled products are marked with case code 3348CNQ03. The recall comes after two consumers complaints of "extraneous material" in the impacted products, according to the release. The USDA names "pieces of metal" as the possible contaminant. As with the January recall, USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service classified the announcement as a "Class I" recall. Such recalls are considered a high health risk – a "situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death." Homebuyer lift:Homebuyers to get springtime boost from lower-than-expected mortgage rates Identity theft:No, you can't pay to remove ID from the dark web. Here's what to do The agency says it is "concerned" that recalled products may have been frozen and placed in consumers' freezers. The agency recommends consumers throw away impacted products or return them to the store where they were purchased. "There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider," the release says. Impacted products include those shipped to retailers nationwide and those bound for institutions in Michigan and Washington, the release says. More information about how to identify recalled products, including affected product time stamps, is provided in the announcement and in a visual guide published by the USDA.<doc-sep>Check your freezer for frozen, fully cooked chicken strips. Tyson Foods is voluntarily recalling nearly 12 million pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products because of possible foreign matter. The frozen, chicken strip products, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, may be contaminated with pieces of metal. Several products involved in the recall were produced on various dates from Oct. 1, 2018 through March 8, 2019. The products were shipped nationwide and have use-by dates of Oct. 1, 2019 through March 7, 2020. Subject to the recall are products with “P-7221” on the back of the packages. Several varieties and size packages are listed in the recall including, 25-ounce and 40-ounce frozen packages of Tyson Fully Cooked Crispy Chicken Strips, Tyson Fully Cooked Buffalo Style Chicken, Tyson Fully Cooked Honey BBQ Flavored, Best Choice Buffalo Style Chicken Strips made with white meat chicken breast strips, Great Value Fully Cooked Chicken Strips Chicken Breast Strip Fritters and Food Lion crispy chicken strips fully cooked chicken breast strip fritters. The Meijer brand of Crispy Chicken Strips and Crispy Chicken Strips Honey BBQ flavored are also on the recall list. “Consumers expect that the food they eat is safe. In their best interest and in an abundance of caution we’re taking quick and decisive action to expand this recall,” said Barbara Masters, DVM, vice president of regulatory food policy, food and agriculture for Tyson Foods in a statement. “We have discontinued use of the specific equipment believed to be associated with the metal fragments, and we will be installing metal-detecting X-ray machinery to replace the plant’s existing metal-detection system.” More on freep.com: Fresh cut melon recall includes products sold in Michigan 250,000 Michigan hens killed in chicken farm fire This recall is an expansion of the original recall of March 21, 2019, in which nearly 70,000 pounds were the frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products. The concern, the FSIS says, is that products may be in consumers freezers. If you have any of the products, the FSIS is urging consumers not to consume them and toss them out or return them to the store of purchase. Contact food writer Susan Selasky: 313-222-6872 or [email protected]. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter.<doc-sep>Tyson Foods is recalling nearly 12 million pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strips that may be contaminated with pieces of metal. The items were produced on various dates from Oct. 1, 2018, through March 8, 2019, and have “Use By” dates of Oct. 1, 2019, through March 7, 2020. The products subject to recall bear establishment number “P-7221” on the back of the product package. The United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service said the chicken was shipped to retail and Department of Defense locations nationwide, as well as to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The problem was discovered after the agency received two consumer complaints of metal in the products. The USDA said it is now aware of six complaints involving similar pieces of metal, with three alleging oral injury. For a complete list of the Tyson products subject to recall, click here.<doc-sep>
Tyson Foods Inc. has recalled over 11 million pounds of frozen chicken strips because they may be contaminated with pieces of metal, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The initial recall from March 21 estimated nearly 69,000 pounds of chicken had been contaminated after the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) received two consumer complaints of extraneous material in the chicken strip products. The chicken products are under a number of different brand names, including Tyson, Kirkwood, and Great Value. A complete list of the recalled Tyson products can be seen on the USDA’s website. According to the USDA, the frozen, ready-to-eat chicken strip products were produced on various dates from Oct. 1, 2018 through March 8, 2019, and have “Use By Dates” of Oct. 1, 2019 through March 7, 2020 The FSIS stated it is now aware of six complaints during this time frame involving similar pieces of metal with three alleging oral injury, officials said. The recall comes nearly two months after the company recalled 36,420 pounds of frozen chicken nuggets after pieces of rubber were found in them. The FSIS is advising anyone with the recalled products to either throw them away or return them to the store where it was purchased. Consumers with questions about the recall are asked to call Tyson Foods Consumer Relations at 1-866-886-8456. Olivia Rizzo may be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @LivRizz. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us.nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.com’s newsletters.
Just after Offset hit the stage with Migos at Madison Square Garden Saturday night (Aug. 25), the rapper took to Instagram to show off his post-show plans: hanging out with his wife Cardi B — apparently with no clothes on. Offset shared a nude photo of Cardi, with her massive hip tattoo facing the camera and her hand over her right breast. He captioned the scandalous pic, "W I F E Y G O D D E S S B E A U T Y." Cardi had previously posted a picture flaunting a new pink hairstyle dressed in lingerie, on what appeared to be a plane. She captioned the sexy image “im on my way to you,” to which Offset responded “HURRY HURRY HURRY.” Cardi is sporting the same pink hair in Offset’s post, so it appears she really was on her way to her man.<doc-sep>Getty Cardi B looks so good six weeks after giving birth to Kulture Kiari Cephus that hubby Offset is sharing all of her with the world. Over the weekend, Cardi posted a photo of herself in a private jet, sporting some sexy lingerie and long, pink locks. She captioned the shot, "I'm on my way to you," to which Offset replied, "HURRY HURRY HURRY." Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media. Turns out the "Bodak Yellow" singer was on her way to New York for the Aubrey & 3 Migos Tour and after party. We're pretty sure Offset got to do more than just party with Cardi after posting a completely nude photo of his "wifey" on Instagram. "WIFEY, GODDESS, BEAUTY," he captioned the shot. Cardi made her first post-baby appearance at last weekend's MTV VMAs, where she ended up snagging three awards. Unfortunately, we have yet to see Baby Kulture. After months of speculation, Cardi revealed her pregnancy in April of this year during her second performance on "Saturday Night Live." There was no hiding her growing baby bump as she came out in a figure-hugging white dress for her performance of "Be Careful." Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media. On July 10, Cardi and Offset welcomed their first child together. Kulture was born in an Atlanta hospital. Offset was by Cardi's side. Back in June, TMZ discovered that Cardi B and Offset secretly tied the knot in September 2017 before Offset's grand proposal at the Philly Powerhouse concert one month later. They fooled us all. At just over six weeks post-birth, Cardi has been keeping her 30 million Instagram followers up to speed about just how hard it's been for her to find the motivation to eat right and get back to the gym. Well, looks like she found it! Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media. Got a story or a tip for us? Email TooFab editors at [email protected].<doc-sep>Cardi B. may have just given birth to daughter Kulture last month, but that hasn't slowed her fire Insta game at all. Specifically when it comes to posting hot photos of how amazing her bod looks—and it seems as though her hubby Offset couldn't be happier about it. Cardi put up this pic of her with long, hot pink hair and HELLA cleavage yesterday with the caption "im on my way to you": This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. Insta account Comments by Celebs caught Offset's reaction to the post, which showed just how eager he was to be reunited with his baby mama. He commented, "HURRY HURRY HURRY." This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. A few hours after Cardi's first post, and when we can assume they were finally together, Offset put up this photo of her with the caption: "WIFEY GODDESS BEAUTY," showing again how ~very~ appreciative he is of Cardi's curves (as he should be). This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. So, all in all, what I've learned from Instagram today is that these two are clearly very much still in love and are #couplegoals. Remember when he proposed to her onstage? Or when they kept their marriage a secret so that they could have some time to enjoy it privately? Or when they got matching Lamborghinis? (Okay that was less 'lovey' and more 'woah' but still! ). This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. Until I can find myself a hubby to get a matching Lambo with, I'll be here eagerly anticipating Cardi and Offset's next Instas... This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. Alanna Greco Weekend Editor I'm a writer and editor based in New York City. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>Cardi B is one hot mama! The "I Like It" rapper took to Instagram on Saturday, flaunting her insane post-baby body just one month after giving birth to her first child, baby girl Kulture, with husband Offset. And we gotta admit, girl is looking good. The Bronx, New York, native decided to have an impromptu photo shoot on a plane, looking fierce and fabulous as she showed off her fit figure. And the rapper didn't hold anything back with her look, pulling out all the stops in a sexy black lingerie set paired with a pink-and-blonde wig. "I'm on my way to you," she captioned the pic. The post came just a few hours after the new mom revealed via Instagram Stories that she was missing her baby "like crazy." "I'm sooo in love with this lil girl," Cardi gushed. "I can't get her out of my mind for nothing!" Instagram Stories Earlier this month, Cardi B debuted her slimmed-down figure at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York City, where she opened the show. Hear more (and see the pics of her stunning red carpet ensemble!) in the video below. RELATED CONTENT: Selena Gomez Teases New Music Video With Cardi B, Ozuna & DJ Snake Cardi B and Offset Gaze Lovingly at Baby Daughter Kulture After VMAs Fakeout -- See the Pic! Cardi B Slays MTV Video Music Awards in First Red Carpet Appearance Since Giving Birth Jennifer Lopez, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj and More Stars' Must-See Fashion Moments from the VMAs This video is unavailable because we were unable to load a message from our sponsors. If you are using ad-blocking software, please disable it and reload the page. Related Gallery<doc-sep>
Cardi B and Offset are having no trouble keeping the fire alive post-baby. Offset shared a nude photo of his "goddess" wife on Saturday, in which the "Bodak Yellow" rapper can be seen posing provocatively in a long pink wig with her colorful tattoos on display, hand strategically placed across her chest. From looking at the revealing snap, you'd never guess that Cardi B, 25, just gave birth to the couple's baby girl, Kulture, just over six weeks ago. "Wifey, goddess, beauty," wrote the 26-year-old member of hip-hop trio Migos, alongside a series of emojis. The New York native responded to her husband in similar fashion, sharing a sexy snap of herself posing seductively in black lingerie while wearing the same pink wig and lounging on a table in a private jet. "I'm on my way to you," Cardi B captioned the sultry pic. Possibly a hint at the surprise performance to come? Because just hours later, Cardi B joined Offset on stage during Migos' performance at Madison Square Garden, as captured by a few fans who attended the show. The rapper also shared a photo of herself posing backstage at the concert, clad in a black leather mini-dress and peep-toe heels. As for baby Kulture? Cardi B was missing her daughter something bad while away, but she teased that the newborn could be making a cameo in her upcoming collaboration with Selena Gomez, DJ Snake and Onuza. "Soon come, on set!" the proud mama wrote, also giving a little wink. For more on how Cardi B (and her bangin' post-baby bod) is adjusting to motherhood, see below. RELATED CONTENT: Cardi B Shows Off Post-Baby Body in Sexy Lingerie One Month After Giving Birth -- See the Pic! Selena Gomez Teases New Music Video With Cardi B, Ozuna & DJ Snake Cardi B and Offset Gaze Lovingly at Baby Daughter Kulture After VMAs Fakeout -- See the Pic!
Gutcheck time. Trailing late in the second half in a game where little was going its way, after losing its best player and starting center in the first half, NC State could have rolled over against Pittsburgh Saturday. Instead, the Pack stepped up with a 33-22 run down the stretch, and thanks to huge contributions from Eric Lockett, DJ Funderburk and Devon Daniels, game up with a come-from-behind 86-80 win against the Panthers. This win showed a lot about the mental makeup of this Wolfpack team. Here's a few key takeaways from the victory. Cardiac Pack- Pitt took its largest lead of the game at 58-53 with less than 10 minutes remaining in the game, but the Pack scored four unanswered to cut the deficit to one. After Au’Diese Toney hit a 3 to give Pitt a four-point lead with 6:28 remaining, Lockett drained back-to-back 3s to put NC State up 63-61 with five minutes and change to play. After Pitt tied the game, Lockett got fouled and hit two free throws before Torin Dorn nailed a shot from behind the arc to push the lead to five with 4:19 to play. The Pack would not relinquish that lead, and Beverly extended it to six with another late 3 with three minutes and change left. NC State ended up closing the game on a 33-22 run after Pitt went up five, and Kevin Keatts’ team showed some serious resilience in a comeback victory minus its best player and one of its only true big men. Playing shorthanded- NC State’s depth took a major hit Saturday, with Wyatt Walker being ejected for a flagrant technical less than three minutes into the game, and Markell Johnson exiting after taking a hard fall on his tailbone. The loss of the team’s best player and starting center took a major toll on the Pack as the game went along, and allowed Pitt to close the first half on a 14-6 run and carry that momentum into the second half. Johnson returned to the bench in the second half but did not return to the game. Lockett returns- After not playing against UNC, Eric Lockett came through in a massive way in this one, with a season-high 17 points on 6 of 9 shooting (3 for 4 from 3) and seven rebounds. Down two players, NC State needed all hands on deck, and Lockett answered the call, particularly on the boards with Walker’s ejection. Lockett hit a couple massive shots in the second half, including back-to-back 3-pointers to erase a four-point deficit late. Lockett ended up scoring eight straight points for the Wolfpack to spark the late run, and was instrumental in the comeback. Funderburk steps up- Obviously with Walker out, the Pack needed someone to step at center, and that man was DJ Funderburk. Funderburk ended up playing 34 minutes, and put up a season-best 18 points, nine rebounds and four blocks. Perhaps just as impressive, Funderburk, who has had an issue with getting into foul trouble (and the team as a whole did on Saturday) committed just two despite the increase in minutes. Daniels’ big first half - With the personnel losses early in the game, NC State could have unraveled. However, Devon Daniels kept the Pack going with a strong performance in the opening 20 minutes. He put 15 points on 7 of 8 shooting, including 1 for 1 from 3-point range in the opening frame. Everytime NC State needed to answer Pitt’s momentum with a score, Daniels was there to do it, and things could have slipped away worse in the first 20 minutes if not for his performance.<doc-sep>NC State Basketball came up short against the North Carolina Tar Heels on Tuesday night. Here’s a look at three keys to victory against Pittsburgh. After reeling off seven straight wins, the NC State Wolfpack’s winning streak came to an end on Tuesday night in an 80-72 loss to the North Carolina Tar Heels. They look to get back to their winning ways on Saturday against a guard-heavy Pittsburgh Panthers squad. The Wolfpack are still the 15th ranked team in the AP Poll and a victory here will allow that number to hold true against Pittsburgh. The Panthers are coming off an 89-86 overtime victory over the Louisville Cardinals on the road, so NC State is sure to get all they can handle. Both teams are 1-1 in ACC play as they look to create some distance in the standings between each other. The Wolfpack are 13-2 on the season while the Panthers are 11-4 on the year, with three of their four losses coming by a combined total of 12 points. The young Pittsburgh guards are sure to pose a challenge for the Wolfpack, but NC State has an experienced backcourt of their own looking to avenge their first loss in ACC play. Markell Johnson is coming off a 4-of-12 shooting performance that saw him put up just 11 points while turning the ball over five times. With four days to prepare for this one, here’s a look at three keys to victory for NC State against the Panthers.<doc-sep>RALEIGH -- The UNC loss was what it was. The Wolfpack played well, but so did the Tar Heels. Both teams traded punches back and forth, but the Pack could never deliver the knockout blow after digging itself into an early deficit on Tuesday night. Moving forward, NC State has a chance to refocus and respond in a huge way. Currently at 13-2 (1-1 ACC), the Pack is still one of the top teams in the country. And with the opportunity ahead starting with Pittsburgh coming to town on Saturday, State can't afford to sulk after the UNC loss -- something Kevin Keatts made abundantly clear following the game. "We went to Wisconsin and lost a heartbreaker similar to that," Keatts said. "You find out a lot about a team by how they bounce back. That was the last thing I talked about with them in the locker room is that we did enough to win the game. If we had cleaned up some stuff with the basketball, rebounded the basketball, and got some 50/50 balls, there would have been a different outcome tonight.” Over the next five games, the Pack will face Pitt, Wake Forest, Notre Dame, Louisville and Clemson. With a combined 10 games played in conference thus far, those five programs have a record of 2-8 in ACC play -- including a loss for Louisville recently to the Panthers. While the Pitt game on Saturday is at home, the following three games will be on the road. But after claiming a come-from-behind victory over Miami on the road already, the team has proved it can win anywhere. And despite the loss on Tuesday night, Torin Dorn had a similar message to Keatts leading up to Saturday. "I think we'll bounce back just the way we've bounced back all the time," Dorn said. "Anytime we take a loss, it's not the loss, per se, it's how you respond to it and what you do after that. So I think we'll come back, practice really hard and get ready for Pitt." So why is this such a critical stretch for the Pack? Well, the following three games after will pit the Pack against consecutive ranked opponents. Starting with No. 4 Virginia and No. 9 Virginia Tech at home, State will then conclude the stretch with No. 12 UNC again in Chapel Hill. Heading into that stretch with a record of 17 or 18 wins already in hand and multiple games above .500 in conference play would go a long way toward the ultimate goal of being one of the Top 4 programs in the ACC in March. After being tested with two tight games and multiple comebacks to start the season already, Keatts feels his team is ready for any challenge.<doc-sep>
RALEIGH -- Can NC State rebound from its first home loss of the season? Wolfpack Nation is about to find out as Pittsburgh heads to Raleigh on Saturday afternoon for its first road game in conference play. The Panthers (11-4, 1-1 ACC) are already showing vast improvement under former Oklahoma head coach and Duke assistant Jeff Capel. Pitt was blown out in its first conference matchup against UNC-Chapel Hill, 85-60, but took down Louisville at home by a final of 89-86 to move to .500 in ACC play before heading to PNC Arena. Meanwhile, the Wolfpack is coming off its first conference loss of the season as well with a hard-fought 90-82 to the Tar Heels. It was only the second loss of the season for the Pack after a seven-game winning streak following the loss to Wisconsin -- both of which came to ranked teams. Before the two teams tip off on Saturday at noon, here's a look at the full game information along with a scouting report and player to watch for the NC State vs. Pitt matchup. No. 15 NC State vs. Pittsburgh Game Info Tipoff: Saturday at noon ET Where: PNC Arena TV: RAYCOM SPORTS Live Stream: WatchESPN Live Stats: SideArm Stats Scouting Report: Pittsburgh Capel has taken a team that had the look of a perennial cellar dweller in Pittsburgh to a relatively competitive program. Led by two freshmen guards in Xavier Johnson and Trey McGowens -- who have combined to average more than 30 points per game -- Pitt relies heavily on its overall guard play to carry the team. While he doesn't average much in the main categories of points (5.5) or rebounds (4.7), Terrell Brown is a consistent defender who is averaging 2.3 blocks per game. Apart from Brown, Pitt is limited in the size department with only 6-foot-9, 225-pounder Kene Chukwuka inside playing more than 20 minutes per game this season. Pitt still ranks as a Top 5 rebounding team in the ACC at 38.5 per game, but is 10th in the conference in rebounding margin at +1.5. The Pack will have to force the issue under the basket much better than it did against UNC and will have experience on its side against a young Pitt roster. Player to Watch: Trey McGowens NC State was heavily involved in McGowens' recruitment before leaving Hargrave Military Academy for Pittsburgh -- now the Pack will get its first chance to face the former target. And given his recent streak of hot shooting, State will certainly have its hands full against the freshman guard. McGowens finished with a career-high 33 points in the overtime win over Louisville, and the Panthers needed every single one in the three-point victory. The frosh guard shot a 12-of-19 clip, including going 4-of-7 from behind the arc, in just his second ACC contest of his career. The Panthers' second-leading scorer has been on fire recently, shooting a red-hot 65.2 percent from the field and a team-high 22.5 points over the last four games. State simply can't allow McGowens to get hot if it wants to drop the Panthers to 0-3 on the season in true road games.
“Sombra is a very friendly, calm canine, and for that reason, she has no problem approaching children or people who want to say hello to her,” Oscar Favian Solarte, head of the anti-narcotics division, told El Tiempo. “She’s playful, and in fact that is part of the development of her job. Not only to look for caches of illicit drugs but also, after her work is done, to de-stress, so to speak.”<doc-sep>BOGOTA, Colombia —Sombra, a six-year-old German shepherd, has helped Colombia's police detect more than 2,000 kilos of cocaine hidden in suitcases, boats and large shipments of fruit. But as the dog sniffs her way toward record cocaine interdictions, she has also become the latest target of Colombia's most powerful drug gang. Colombian police recently revealed that the Gulf Clan, a cartel that boasts its own guerrilla army, has offered a reward of $7,000 to whoever kills or captures the savvy hound. The threat prompted officials to relocate Sombra — whose name in Spanish means Shadow — from a busy port on Colombia's Caribbean coast to the capital city, where she now uses her extraordinary talent to sniff through suspicious cargo at Bogota's El Dorado International Airport. After her six hour shift is over, Sombra is transported in a van with tinted windows back to her kennel. She is usually accompanied by two armed guards. "We are responsible for her safety," said officer Jose Rojas, Sombra's 25-year-old handler. Drug dog Sombra inspects a suitcase at the El Dorado airport in Bogota, Colombia, on July 26, 2018. Fernando Vergara / AP Sombra's detective work is needed now more than ever as Colombia wrestles with soaring coca production that is testing traditionally close relations with the United States. A recent White House report found the amount of land where peasants and drug traffickers harvest the plant used to make cocaine rose 11 percent in 2017, despite $10 billion in U.S. counter-narcotics work. "President Trump's message to Colombia is clear: The record growth in cocaine production must be reversed," warned Jim Carroll, deputy director for the drug policy office. President-elect Ivan Duque is promising a tougher approach to speed up eradication with strategies that could include aerial spraying and the use of drones. But even with advanced technology, experts say on-the-ground detective work like that performed by Sombra is critical. Some of Sombra's recent busts include uncovering over five tons of Gulf Clan cocaine destined for Europe and concealed in crates of bananas. Officers also credit her incredible nose with more than 245 drug-related arrests at two of Colombia's biggest international airports. "Her sense of smell is far beyond that of other dogs," Rojas said. Drug cartels like the Gulf Clan have taken note. After learning there was a price on Sombra's head, Colombia's national police director ordered her to be transferred to a new post earlier this year, according to local news reports. Investigators uncovered the threat against Sombra through an intercepted phone call. "Sombra the German shepherd has become the terror of criminal organizations," a recent story in Colombia's El Espectador newspaper proclaimed. On a typical day, Sombra is up by 6 a.m. and shuttled from a kennel to work at El Dorado airport inspecting packages and cargo. With her neon reflective vest, pointy ears and gaping mouth, she looks more like a beloved family pet than a veteran drug-sniffing police dog. Since she was transferred in January, the dog named Shadow has sniffed thousands of pounds of cocaine out of the dark, helping her handlers find the drug hidden in boxes full of sneakers and wooden necklaces. A few months ago, the tenacious hound also sniffed out 77 kilos of cocaine placed deep inside an industrial machine.<doc-sep>More than 10 tons of cocaine on San Diego pier The U.S. Coast Guard displays a reported 14 tons of cocaine stacked on the deck of a Cutter in San Diego Officers stand by a display of confiscated drugs in Sydney, Monday, Jan. 15, 2016. Australian Federal Police said they had seized 720 liters (190 gallons) of the illicit drug methylamphetamine worth more than 1 billion Australian dollars ($700 million). (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft) Handout picture released by the Colombian police showing eight tons of seized cocaine in Turbo, Antioquia department, on May 15, 2016. General Jorge Nieto, the head of the Colombian police, said the seized cocaine belonged to the Usuga clan. / AFP PHOTO / COLOMBIAN POLICE HO / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - MANDATORY CREDIT "AFP PHOTO /COLOMBIAN POLICE" - NO MARKETING - NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS COLOMBIAN POLICE HO/AFP/Getty Images An undated handout photo obtained on July 3, 2016, shows a large diamante-encrusted horse head from Mexico from which New Zealand police said they have seized a record 10 million USD worth of cocaine hidden inside. The largest-ever haul of the drug in New Zealand has been linked to the rebuild of the city of Christchurch, severely damaged in a 2011 earthquake, and the Australian market. / AFP / STR (Photo credit should read STR/AFP/Getty Images) Photo from U.S. Customs and Border Protection shows nine pounds of cocaine taped to suspect's leg Philippine Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, center, and National Bureau of Investigation Director Dante Gierran, 3rd from right, display nearly one metric ton of seized methamphetamine during a press conference in Manila, Philippines Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016. Aguirre II said Tuesday the 890 kilograms (1,962 pounds) of methamphetamine seized in the series of raids that started on Dec. 1 until Dec. 26 has a street value of nearly 6 billion pesos ($120 million), the biggest drug haul in the country so far. 10 people including 3 Chinese nationals were arrested during the raids. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) Australian national Maria Elvira Pinto Exposto (C) is escorted by a Malaysian custom official as she arrives at the Magistrate Court in Sepang on April 30, 2015. An Australian woman faces a possible death sentence for drug trafficking in Malaysia after a prosecutor said on April 30 a chemist's report confirmed the substance found in her bag was crystal methamphetamine. AFP PHOTO / MOHD RASFAN (Photo credit should read MOHD RASFAN/AFP/Getty Images) (CNN) — Her talent for sniffing out drugs has led to the capture of at least 245 people and the seizure of 9 tons of cocaine from the powerful Urabeños gang in Colombia. But now Sombra (Shadow, in English), a 6-year-old German shepherd who is incredibly popular among children and adults alike, is in danger. A pesar de tener 6 añitos, a la agente sombra le sobra vitalidad 🐶 ha sido reconocida porque protege la vida de los niños, niñas y adolescentes del veneno mortal de las drogas. Todos la quieren y puedes tomarte tu selfie en el aeropuerto @BOG_ELDORADO. Guao 🐶 pic.twitter.com/BTbeGXeUSx — Policía Antinarcóticos (@PoliciaAntiNar) July 24, 2018 The Urabeños mafia has put a bounty of 200 million pesos ($70,000) on her head, according to Colombian police, so the dog had to be moved to Bogota’s El Dorado airport over fears for her safety. Along with her usual handler, Jose Rojas, Sombra is now escorted by other officers to keep an eye on her, police said. Over the past three years, Sombra has become “the torment of Otoniel, seizing 9 tons of cocaine,” anti-narcotics police said in a tweet. Nuestro can "Sombra" fue la mejor durante los entrenamientos en detección de drogas ilícitas, en los últimos tres años se convirtió en el tormento de "Otoniel" incautandole 9 toneladas de cocaína #ConozcaMás a "Sombra" en el desfile #20DeJulio #COLOMBIAunasolaFuerza pic.twitter.com/a6tWpjkdiQ — Policía Antinarcóticos (@PoliciaAntiNar) July 20, 2018 Dairo Antonio Úsuga, alias “Otoniel,” is the head of the Urabeños, one of Colombia’s most powerful criminal groups and one of the country’s most wanted men. “Our German shepherd, Sombra, has participated in almost 300 operations,” Col. Tito Castellanos, the deputy director for the anti-narcotics police, told Colombian news agency RCN. She has already won two K-9 Medals of Courage for her valor and might get a third one this year, he said. CNN’s Marilia Brocchetto contributed to this report<doc-sep>A Colombian drug cartel has put out a $70,000 hit on a drug-sniffing German shepherd after she helped authorities discover nearly 10 tons of the group's cocaine. Sombra ("Shadow" in English) has been relocated by authorities after the Urabeños, which is considered to be Colombia's most powerful criminal organization, put the price on her head, the BBC reported Thursday. The 6-year-old canine has had an incredibly successful career as a drug sniffer thus far, reportedly having uncovered a record amount of narcotics. Previously, Sombra worked along the South American country's Atlantic coastline, especially in the town of Turbo. The area is well known as a key shipping area for tons of cocaine sent by speedboats—and sometimes by submarine—to Central America as well as the U.S. The dog has now been transferred to the Columbian capital, Bogotá, where she'll continue working in the El Dorado airport and can be more easily protected from the cartel's threats. While she worked along the coast Sombra managed to sniff out 5.3 tons of cocaine. She also recently discovered an additional 4 tons stored in car parts awaiting export, according to the BBC. The leader of the Urabeños, Dairo Antonio Úsuga, also known as "Otoniel," is one of Colombia's most wanted criminals. The cartel, which is also known as the Úsuga clan or Gulf clan, controls a major portion of the country's drug trafficking trade. Last June, Colombian authorities dispatched 1,000 police officers to search for Úsuga in northern Colombia. They were using black hawk helicopters and said at the time that they had "him within striking distance," Agence France-Presse reported. "He has had to run for it at the last second, more than once," Jose Angel Mendoza, head of the anti-narcotics police division, told the news agency. The U.S. government offered a $5 million reward for the drug leaders' apprehension back in 2009, after an indictment in a New York court. The State Department describes Úsuga's gang as "a heavily armed, extremely violent criminal organization comprised of former members of terrorist organizations." Urabeños has previously offered monetary rewards to anyone who kills its opponents. Back in 2012, the organization issued leaflets offering $500 for murdering policemen, the BBC reported at the time. The move was in retaliation for the death of Juan de Dios Úsuga, one of the leaders at the time. However, the hit on Sombra is exceptionally high, signaling the gang's anger over the deep financial losses the expert sniffer had caused.<doc-sep>
Colombian authorities have been forced to relocate a police dog responsible for sniffing out more than 2,000 kilos of cocaine after a drug cartel placed a $7,000 bounty on the animal. Police recently discovered that the powerful Gulf Clan – also known as the Úsugas – had offered the reward for the death or capture of Sombra, a six-year-old German shepherd. The threat prompted officials to relocate Sombra – whose name in Spanish means Shadow – from the port of Turbo on the Caribbean coast to the capital city, where she now uses her extraordinary talent at Bogotá’s El Dorado international airport. “Her sense of smell is far beyond that of other dogs,” said officer José Rojas, Sombra’s 25-year-old handler. Sombra is transported between her kennel and the airport in a van with tinted windows and is usually accompanied by two armed guards. “We are responsible for her safety,” said Rojas. Sombra looks for drugs in the cargo hold of El Dorado airport in Bogota, Colombia, on 26 July. Photograph: Fernando Vergara/AP Colombia’s soaring output of coca – the raw material of cocaine – is testing traditionally close relations with the United States. A recent White House report found the amount of land where peasants and drug traffickers harvest the plant used to make cocaine rose 11% in 2017, despite $10bn in US counter-narcotics work. President-elect Iván Duque is promising a tougher approach to speed up eradication with strategies that could include aerial spraying and the use of drones. But even with advanced technology, experts say on-the-ground detective work like that performed by Sombra is critical. Some of Sombra’s recent busts include uncovering over five tons of Gulf Clan cocaine destined for Europe and concealed in crates of bananas. Officers also credit her incredible nose with more than 245 drug-related arrests at two of Colombia’s biggest international airports. “Sombra the German shepherd has become the terror of criminal organizations,” a recent story in Colombia’s El Espectador newspaper proclaimed. After learning there was a price on Sombra’s head, Colombia’s national police director ordered her to be transferred to a new post earlier this year, according to local news reports. Investigators uncovered the threat against Sombra through an intercepted phone call. Colombia’s national police estimates that it has lost at least 1,800 officers over the past two decades and a number of dogs to the war on drugs.
Jose Canseco was right about steroids in baseball nearly 15 years ago. Time will tell about his new allegations against Alex Rodriguez. Canseco took swing after swing at A-Rod on Twitter late Sunday night, alleging that the 43-year-old has been cheating on Jennifer Lopez, with whom he announced his engagement Saturday. Canseco also challenged Rodriguez to a fight. “Watching World of Dance watching J.Lo text Alex Rodriguez little does she know that he is cheating on her with my ex-wife Jessica (Canseco) poor girl she has no idea who he really is,” Canseco said in a series of four tweets aimed at Rodriguez, who works for the Yankees as a special advisor to owner Hal Steinbrenner. Canseco admitted to using steroids throughout his 17-year career and exposed them as a plaguing the sport in his 2005 book, “"Juiced: Wild Times, Rampant 'Roids, Smash Hits & How Baseball Got Big.” Rodriguez twice admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs and was suspended all of the 2014 seasons for violating the league’s drug policy. Rodriguez since undergone a remarkable image overhaul since retiring in 2016, landing high-profile TV gigs such as a baseball analyst for ESPN and Fox. He’s been dating J.Lo for about two years. “I was there a few months back with her when he called her on her phone,” Canseco tweeted, referring to his ex-wife. “Alex Rodriguez stop being a piece of (crap) stop cheating on Jennifer Lopez,” Canseco said. “Alex Rodriguez I challenge you to a boxing match or an MMA match anytime you want.” Canseco hit 462 homers over his career. He played 37 games with the Yankees in 2000. Rodriguez won three American League MVP awards over his 22-year career. He played 12 seasons with the Yankees, helping them to a World Series win in 2009. Brendan Kuty may be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @BrendanKutyNJ. Find NJ.com Yankees on Facebook.<doc-sep>Former baseball star Alex Rodriguez made news over the weekend for getting engaged to star actress and singer Jennifer Lopez, with the ex-Yankee raising eyebrows by gifting his future bride with a strikingly enormous ring. Two days later, another ex-ballplayer and tabloid mainstay is leveling some shocking charges at Rodriguez. Jose Canseco, the controversial former baseball player, sent a tweet Sunday night making the wild charge that A-Rod is cheating on his bride-to-be- with Canseco's own former wife, Jessica. "Watching World of Dance watching J.Lo text Alex Rodriguez," Canseco tweeted. "Little does she know that he is cheating on her with my ex-wife Jessica poor girl she has no idea who he really is." The 54-year-old Canseco, in subsequent postings, went on to say that "I was there a few months back with her when he called her on her phone," and to challenge Rodriguez to a boxing or MMA match. This is not, in fact, the first time Canseco has accused Rodriguez of getting together with Jessica. He made a similar charge back in 2008, stating in his book Vindicated, and at a subsequent book signing, per the New York Post, that Rodriguez and Jessica Canseco had had an affair. Rodriguez and his first wife, Cynthia, divorced that year. Canseco, one of the top sluggers in the game in the late 1980s and early 1990s, made headlines in 2005 when he wrote a book, Juiced, in which he admitted to using steroids throughout his career, while also accusing numerous baseball contemporaries of also using performance-enhancing drugs. This caused Canseco to become something of a pariah in the game. A-Rod announces that "she said yes" as J-LO shows off huge diamond sparkler. Check out the ring! https://t.co/zCGRdTkVql pic.twitter.com/p4Zfq1ED8A — New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) March 10, 2019 A second book, Vindicated, followed three years later, in which Canseco named more names, including Rodriguez. His second wife Jessica Canseco, who was married to Jose from 1996 to 1999, went on to write a rebuttal book called Juicy: Confessions of a Former Baseball Wife, and starred in the reality show Hollywood Exes. Canseco and Rodriguez have also both been romantically linked to Madonna, although many years apart. The two players' careers overlapped for a few years, but they were never teammates. Rodriguez, who was something of a disgraced figure in baseball towards the end of his career due to his own bouts with performance-enhancing drugs (per The Inquisitr), has undergone a dramatic image rehabilitation in recent years. He's launched successful careers in business and sports broadcasting, and got together with Lopez in early 2017, leading up to their engagement this weekend.<doc-sep>Jose Canseco is back at it again, this time offering to tell Jennifer Lopez the “truth” about Alex Rodriguez, who he claims is cheating on her with Canseco’s ex-wife. It’s another week, so naturally, it is time for Jose Canseco to find his way into the news. Recently, he has offered to help Tim Tebow with his swing, claimed that if people pay to hang out with him that he will introduce them to Bigfoot and a “real” alien, and claimed to know the secrets of time travel. It is Jose Canseco after all, so insanity is part of the course. Now, with the news that Alex Rodriguez is engaged to Jennifer Lopez, Canseco has emerged from the drug induced haze that he has been hiding in. Now, he is offering to tell J-Lo the “truth about A-Rod,” and even provided his phone number for her to call him. @JLo if you want the truth about Alex Rodriguez call me 702-374-3735 — Jose Canseco (@JoseCanseco) March 11, 2019 So, now that we have all put Canseco’s number into our contact lists, it might be time to notify the former slugger that DMs don’t work like that. Of course, Canseco did not wait to hear from Rodriguez’ new fiancee, instead sharing his tale on Twitter. In a story that would be right at home in any given soap opera, Canseco claimed that Rodriguez is cheating on Lopez. Not only that, but the other woman? None other than Canseco’s ex-wife. Because why else would Canseco get involved with this situation? Watching World of Dance watching J.Lo text Alex Rodriguez little does she know that he is cheating on her with my ex-wife Jessica poor girl she has no idea who he really is — Jose Canseco (@JoseCanseco) March 11, 2019 Let’s face it – Canseco is only looking out for poor, innocent Jessica Lopez. All he wants it to open her eyes to the dastardly ways of her betrothed. In no possible way would this be a cry for attention, or a way to stay in the public eye. Even Canseco’s offer to fight A-Rod, either in a boxing or MMA match, is just his way of trying to defend J-Lo’s sensibilities. The odds of such a fight happening are fairly remote. After all, both sports have stringent PED testing, and we know both of their histories when it comes to that. Canseco even managed to become relevant once again after he blew the cover off of the PED scandal in revenge for his belief that he was blackballed from the game. Who knows? Maybe Canseco is actually right about this as well. Back when he was claiming that half the league was on PEDs, no one believed him until testing showed that drug use was actually a problem in baseball. But then again, this is also the same guy that claims aliens taught him the secret of time travel. Maybe that baseball hit Canseco off the dome harder than we realized. Want your voice heard? Join the Call To The Pen team! Write for us! Jose Canseco is trying to stay relevant. This time, he is claiming that Alex Rodriguez is cheating on Jennifer Lopez, with Canseco’s ex wife as the other woman.<doc-sep>
Jose Canseco weighed in on Alex Rodriguez’s engagement to Jennifer Lopez on Sunday, calling the former Yankee a “piece of s–t” for, Conseco alleges without any evidence, cheating on his new fiancée. Taking to Twitter, Canseco, 54, blasted Rodriguez, 43, in a series of tweets, claiming his ex-wife, Jessica Canseco, had caught the eye of Lopez’s future husband. “Watching World of Dance watching J.Lo text Alex Rodriguez little does she know that he is cheating on her with my ex-wife Jessica poor girl she has no idea who he really is,” Canseco began. see also Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez are engaged Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez have announced their engagement in... “I was there a few months back with her when he called her on her phone,” he continued. Rodriguez announced his engagement to Lopez, 49, on Saturday. “She said yes,” he shared on Instagram, in addition to a snap of Lopez’s stunning engagement ring. Canseco, who rants on Twitter about aliens teaching us time travel and has plans to search for Bigfoot, continued his war of words against Rodriguez, later challenging him to a boxing match. “I am willing to take a polygraph to prove that what I’m saying about Alex Rodriguez is 100% accurate,” said Canseco, who wrote a book in which he accused Rodriguez of PED use (before Rodriguez had admitted to it) and of hitting on Jessica, Jose’s then-wife. A pal of A-Rod’s told us of the left-field Jessica allegation: “They haven’t seen each other in years. It’s laughable, considering the source.” Meanwhile, Rodriguez and Lopez appear to be enjoying every moment of their engagement bliss.
Japan Open 2018 Badminton Highlights: PV Sindhu lost her match. (File) Japan Open 2018 Badminton Highlights: PV Sindhu lost her match. (File) Japan Open 2018 Badminton Highlights: Third seed PV Sindhu suffered a shock defeat against China’s Gao Fangjie in the Round of 16 match of the Japan Open. The ace Indian shuttler struggled to maintain her composure and committed a number of unforced errors in the second game, as she lost 18-21, 19-21 against the 19-year old opponent. HS Prannoy also crashed out of the tournament after losing 14-21, 17-21 to Indonesia’s Anthony Sinisuka Ginting. Kidambi Srikanth progressed to the quarterfinal with a 21-15 21-14 victory over Hong Kong’s Wong Wong Ki Vincent.<doc-sep>Japan Open 2018: PV Sindhu vs Gao Fangjie Second Round, Live Score and Match Updates SHARE Sindhu loses 18-21, 19-21 to go out in the second round.<doc-sep>On Friday, the World No 8 Srikanth hit yet another stumbling-block in his disjointed journey back to the top after contracting a knee injury at the French Open last November, when he went down to South Korea’s Lee Dong Keun What a sharp drop there has been in the space of just a few months, in the form of India’s top male shuttler, Kidambi Srikanth. Appearing virtually unbeatable in late-2017, after bagging four Superseries titles and one Superseries runner-up spot in a single season, the 25 year old Andhra Pradesh native has been struggling to re-ignite the spark that made him one of the most feared competitors on the international badminton circuit last year. On Friday, the World No 8 Srikanth hit yet another stumbling-block in his disjointed journey back to the top after contracting a knee injury at the French Open last November, when he went down to South Korea’s Lee Dong Keun, a player ranked 25 places behind him in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) standings, at the quarter-final stage of the Japan Open badminton championships in Tokyo. The 21-19, 16-21, 18-21 defeat in a gruelling 78-minute encounter at the Musashino Forest Sports Plaza provided a stark reminder that the Indian will need to pull up his socks in no uncertain manner if he is to be a major contender at the 2020 Summer Olympics that are to be held in the Japanese capital in less than two years’ time. It mattered little that the 27-year-old Dong Keun had blasted his far more illustrious compatriot, fourth-seeded Son Wan Ho, at 21-13, 21-13 in the pre-quarter-final. The Indian’s inability to keep his nose ahead in the match against the Korean stood out in stark contrast to the footspeed, accuracy, confidence and opportunism in closing out rallies at the slightest opportunity, that the host nation’s recently crowned world champion, Kento Momota, showed while handing five-time former world champion, Lin Dan of China, one of the most comprehensive defeats of the latter’s fabulous career. The third-seeded Japanese left-hander, who turned 24 on the first day of the running month, was utterly merciless in his clinical 43-minute 21-8, 21-10 demolition of the two-time Olympic gold medallist, giving the man widely considered to be the greatest player of all time absolutely no chance of staging one of his trademark recoveries. It is not that Super Dan played badly; but, at the ripe old age of 34, and conceding a full decade to his Japanese antagonist, the Chinese ace did not have either the pace or the penetration to put his speedy, fit rival on the back foot in front of Momota’s home crowds. In a way, it was sad to witness the on-court humiliation of one of the game’s legends, in much the same manner as 36-year-old, 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer’s sufferings at the hands of Australia's John Millman at the recent US Open. However, another player abundantly gifted in the speed department, Anthony Sinisuka Ginting of Indonesia, was not so fortunate in another quarter-final against the 2017 world champion, Viktor Axelsen of Denmark. Ginting, who had actually held match-point in the second game of his Asian Games gold-medal clash against compatriot Jonatan Christie, found the top-seeded defending champion a hard nut to crack, and capitulated by a 17-21, 15-21 scoreline in a minute shy of the hour mark. On this showing, and on the strength of his earlier performances against Hsu Jen Hao of Chinese Taipei and Kenta Nishimoto of Japan, it can be safely concluded that Axelsen is over the ankle problem that had required surgery in January this year, and on his way back to the top of the heap. The Dane’s semi-final joust with Momota on Saturday – a duel between the world champions of the past two years – is likely to decide the fate of the men’s singles trophy in this tournament, for it appears unlikely that either of the other two semi-finalists, Korean Lee Dong Keun or Khosit Phetpradab of Thailand, would trouble their winner. The latter, though, staked his credentials by downing two time former world champion and 2016 Olympic gold medallist, Chen Long of China, by a 21-19, 24-22 margin. Srikanth’s latest reverse to a far lower ranked player had signaled the end of the Indian challenge at the $700,000 prize money World Tour event. The other two main contenders, HS Prannoy and PV Sindhu, had been beaten in the second round on Thursday, by opponents they should have taken in their stride, while all the Indian doubles combinations also came to grief at the same stage of the competition. There was some cheer for Indian badminton supporters when Prannoy exacted revenge from Jonatan Christie for his loss at the Indonesian’s hands at the recent Asiad. The Kerala-born Gopichand Academy trainee downed the talented Indonesian, who will turn 21 on the day of the Japan Open semi-finals, by an impressive 21-18, 21-17 scoreline, but was then shown the exit door in the second round by Christie’s fellow-countryman, Ginting, by a depressing 21-14, 21-17 margin. As for the third-ranked Sindhu, the Indian completed another short, eminently forgettable stay in a Japan Open, by losing to up-and-coming Chinese youngster, Gao Fangjie. Sindhu had produced a rather unconvincing opening-round triumph over local girl, Sayaka Takahashi, recovering after a second-game brain-fade, for a 21-17, 7-21, 21-13 win. But 19-year-old Gao matched Sindhu in all departments of the game, particularly in retrieving the bird from tough angles, and gave the Indian a 21-18, 21-19 humbling. Although Gao forms one of the vanguard of exciting young Chinese players who could be ripe for medals by the time the 2020 Tokyo Olympics come round, Sindhu is distinctly superior on paper – a fact that was conclusively proved when the Chinese teenager was roundly thrashed at 21-14, 21-12 by Aya Ohori of the host nation in the quarter-finals. Ohori qualified to take on compatriot and 2017 world champion, Nozomi Okuhara, in one semi-final on Saturday, while reigning world champion and Japan Open defending champion, Carolina Marin of Spain, made the last-four grade in the bottom half of the draw, and will meet China’s Chen Yufei. A perusal of that line-up would instantly lead to the sixty-four thousand dollar question – what was the fate of the top two seeds in the competition, the apparently unbeatable World No 1 Tai Tzu Ying of Chinese Taipei, and the No 2 seed, Akane Yamaguchi of Japan? In what has been a tournament of shocks and surprises, resulting in the exit of the top four seeds in the women’s singles, Tai suffered a horrible day at the office in the second round itself, and was eliminated by 20 year old Chen Xiaoxin of China at 21-18, 21-14. Chen, in turn, was handily bounced out by Okuhara at the last-eight stage, by a 21-17, 21-16 scoreline, in a match that lasted 54 minutes of excruciatingly long rallies in which the staying power of the pint-sized Japanese weighed in the balance. The other Japanese girl with limitless stamina, Yamaguchi, who has the reputation of being able to keep rallies going into eternity, was tamed at 21-13, 15-21, 21-15 in 68 minutes by another Chinese youngster who has been making waves for the past two years, fifth-seeded Chen Yufei. Yufei employed deception in the best Tai Tzu Ying tradition to repeatedly send Yamaguchi the wrong way, and force her into errors. The other supremely deceptive warrior on the women’s circuit, Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand, found the scorching footspeed and superior fitness of three-time world champion Marin a mite too much to counter, and capitulated at 21-18, 21-19, in a vastly entertaining 47-minute battle of cut-and-thrust. The result meant that Marin was firmly installed as the new favourite to retain her hold on the Japan Open title this Sunday.<doc-sep>
Japan's Kento Momota outgunned Thai rival Khosit Phetpradab 21-14, 21-11 in a one-sided final to capture the Japan Open badminton title on Sunday. Tokyo: Japan's Kento Momota outgunned Thai rival Khosit Phetpradab 21-14, 21-11 in a one-sided final to capture the Japan Open badminton title on Sunday. The 24-year-old sank to his knees after a towering smash completed a comfortable win, kissing the Japanese badge on his shirt as he took another step towards redemption following a gambling scandal that threatened to ruin his career. "I was just so overwhelmed at winning and the sense of what I achieved," said Momota after becoming the first Japanese player to win the men's singles crown. "I kept telling myself 'a couple more points, a couple more points' -- and then finally it was over. The home support was a massive help." Momota, who was booted off the Japanese team for the 2016 Rio Olympics and banned for over a year for visiting an illegal casino, had been furious with himself after crashing out of the Asian Games at the semi-final stage last month. But having beaten China's two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan in the Tokyo quarter-finals and top seed Viktor Axelsen in the last four, Momota's run to the Japan Open title was fully deserved as he dominated his matches with his attacking style. "I played loose at the world championships," said Momota, who became the first Japanese man to win the world title earlier this year. "But today when I could see the finish line my hands were shaking. That's how much I wanted it. This victory is for all the people who have stood by me through everything." Olympic champion Carolina Marin retained her Japan Open women's singles title by beating local favourite Nozomi Okuhara 21-19, 17-21, 21-11. The Spanish triple world champion broke her opponent's brave resistance with a barrage of smashes that finally brought an end to an absorbing contest.
Alright stans, listen up. Madonna, after three years of musical silence (excluding a jingle about condoms and a collab with Quavo and Cardi B) following 2015's Rebel Heart, has announced her new album: Madame X. It's already clear that it's going to be a massive spectacle and a new transformation. Fans have been guessing an album announce was on the way since early April, when Madge started filling up her grid with a giant red X. A week ago, she started posting puzzle pieces tiles of a document listing the many sides of the mysterious "Madame X." In a video trailer, Madonna confirms that Madame X is the title and leading lady of the fourteenth record of her career. Here's what we know about "Madame X," the woman and the album: 'Madame X' is a concept project. The album takes place in the world of the eponymous Madame X. In the trailer, Madonna introduces us to this world, which is dark and shadowy, taking unsubtle cues from spy film (James Bond, most obviously) and noir cinema. She dramatically stubs a cigarette out in a martini glass, punches away at a typewriter in leather gloves and transforms into 10 different looks (including sunglasses and a trench, a bonnet, an eye patch and a cowboy hat — Madonna's next yeehaw moment, imminent?). The only dialogue in the clip is, "I decided to call my record Madame X," which she tells a table full of men. The clip was created by video artist Nuno Zico and photographer Steven Klein, who it seems likely she's working with on the full body of album imagery. Watch the trailer: Madame X, the character, is a Carmen Sandiego-esque international spy and femme fatale. Well, Madame X is apparently a lot of things (many hats!). Here's the full list: "I'm a secret agent. Traveling around the world. Changing identities. Fighting for freedom. Bringing light to dark places. She is a dancer. A professor. A head of state. A housekeeper. An equestrian. A prisoner. A student. A mother. A child. A teacher. A nun. A singer. A saint. A whore. The spy in the house of love. I'm Madame X." The first single is with Maluma. In a global collab fitting for an international global spy, Madonna is teaming up with the Colombian reggaeton star. Their collab is called "Medellin" (like the city) and it's out on Wednesday. Both artists shared the luxuriant single art on Instagram. "This seems incredible, I still can not believe it, but it IS a REALITY !! On April 17 we release our song called #MEDELLIN," Maluma shared. Madame X plays the accordion. Madge has shared a couple of clips of Madame X playing instruments. Sadly, they're audio-less, so our only sonic clue so far is the eerie piano song with auto-tune ripples that plays in the background of the trailer. The album was influenced by Madonna's time in Portugal. Madonna covered Vogue Italia this past summer and confirmed her new record to the magazine, explaining that it was shaped by the year time spent living in Lisbon, where she moved in 2017 so her son David could train with a Portuguese soccer club. "I've just met lots of really amazing musicians, and I've ended up working with a lot of these musicians on my new record, so Lisbon has influenced my music and my work," she said. "I don't see how I could have gone through that year without being informed by all this input of culture." Specifically, she discussed discovering traditional fado music, which originated in Lisbon. "I always say three f's rule Portugal: fado, football and Fatima." She continued, also mentioning flamenco, jazz and kuduro. "Sometimes there would be gypsies flamenco dancing, and a lot of times there would be people playing the music of Cesária Évora [editor's note, a famous Cape Verdean singer], and who knew her. You'll always hear lots of fado and lots of kuduro music from Angola. A lot of jazz also – old school jazz, which is pretty cool." It's a mystery worthy of Madame X what the accordion and reggaeton piled on top of that list of influences, plus Madonna's pop touch, will sound like, but she indicated to Vogue Italia, that she, as always, wants to do things differently. "It's also such a nice antidote to what's going on in the music business now where everything's so formulaic, and every song has 20 guest artists on it, and everyone sounds the same. Something's gotta give," she said. Fans are hoping to learn more concrete details at Madonna's upcoming show at the Eurovision Song Contest in May. Whoever she is — armed with an endless closet of disguises, Carmen Sandiego energy, accordions and flamenco — we're extremely ready for Madame X.<doc-sep>Madonna has been almost everything — that’s the party line of her nearly four-decade-long career. But on her 14th album due in June, “Madame X,” she promises to become an actual shape-shifter, a secret agent “fighting for freedom” and “bringing light into dark places” in the guises of a professor, a housekeeper, a nun, a cabaret singer and a prostitute, among others. If her overstuffed 2015 album “Rebel Heart” was a touch reflective, reckoning with elements from her past as a not-always-embraced cultural rabble-rouser, “Madame X” so far promises to be a bit of a romp. She has said the inspirations come from her adopted home, Lisbon, and her longtime fascination with Latin music, which has been a part of her aesthetic since she touched down in New York at age 19. Its first single, “Medellín,” is a spotlight for the Colombian star Maluma, who met Madonna backstage at the MTV Video Music Awards last year and cheerfully glides through the track. Though this is likely the song on which she morphs into a cha cha instructor, Madonna is playing a fantasist. The producer Mirwais, who was one of Madonna’s core creative partners from her 2000 album “Music” through “Confessions on a Dance Floor” in 2005, returns to help provide a dreamy backdrop for her carefully sung (and digitally tweaked) voyage to an alternate past: a life, and love, in Medellín. The track soars when it hits its arms-outstretched chorus and dips when it reaches its most cringe-worthy lyric, but while its missteps aren’t barbed enough to deflate a reverie, it feels more like a stride in the right direction than an emphatic stomp forward. CARYN GANZ<doc-sep>
Madonna has posted a lot of material on social media positioning the concept of her new album, “Madame X,” but until “Medellin,” the first single from the album, dropped today, there was precious little information about the album itself. We knew she’d worked with “Medellin” collaborator Maluma, longtime producers Mirwais and Mike Dean… and that’s about it. Well, now we know the album, the follow-up to 2015’s “Rebel Heart,” will arrive on June 14. The video for “Medellin” will arrive during an MTV special called “MTV Presents Madonna Live & Exclusive: ‘Medellín’ Video World Premiere,” that airs at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on Wednesday, April 24. According to the announcement, the album is “Influenced creatively by [Madonna] living in Lisbon, Portugal over the past several years” and is “a collection of 15 new songs that celebrate Madonna’s career-long affair with Latin music and culture as well as other global influences.” (The full tracklist appears below.) Along with Maluma, the album features guest spots from Migos’ Quavo, Rae Sremmurd’s Swae Lee, Brazilian singer Anitta. Madonna sings in Portuguese, Spanish and English. Along with “Medellín,” other tracks include a Jamaican dancehall-inflected song called “Future” featuring Quavo (co-produced by Diplo, who also worked on “Rebel Heart”) as well as the Mirwais collaboration “Dark Ballet.” The album was recorded over 18 months in Portugal, London, New York and Los Angeles. “Lisbon is where my record was born,” Madonna says. “I found my tribe there and a magical world of incredible musicians that reinforced my belief that music across the world is truly all connected and is the soul of the universe.” “Madame X” will come in a standard and deluxe version of the album. A Target CD version will feature the deluxe version plus an additional two tracks. A variety of special bundles of Madame X with one-of-a-kind limited merchandise, as well as special vinyl and cassette versions of the album, are available now for pre-order as well HERE. Further details regarding the album, videos and appearances will be announced in the coming weeks. Last year, she shared multiple posts from the album’s recording sessions. In one clip, her six-year-old daughter Estere plays with a keyboard while singing into a microphone. The full track listing for Madame X standard and deluxe versions are:
Three people have been found dead in the Colorado River, one woman is still missing. For days, Mohave County sheriff's deputies have searched for the victims of the two-boat collision. Law enforcement said they won't stop until the final victim, a Ventura woman who attended school in Visalia, is found. Here's what is known about the fatal collision. When did it happen? The incident that sparked the multi-agency, multi-state operation happened Saturday around 8 p.m. Mohave County Sheriff Doug Schuster said that a boat carrying 10 people and another vessel with six people on board collided head-on Saturday night on the river that borders California and Arizona. Both boats sank and passing boaters pulled victims from the water, he said. The boats collided between two popular marinas near Moabi Regional Park, a well-traveled recreation area crowded with people enjoying the Labor Day weekend, the sheriff's office said. Helicopters were deployed, and authorities scoured the shoreline to try to find the missing boaters. Divers have been sent out into the river's waters, which can range from shallow to 30 feet deep. While the cause of the collision is being investigated. Some witnesses said neither boat had lights on at the time of the collision. None of the boaters wore life jackets, which aren't required but are recommended by authorities, Schuster said. Who is involved? Mojave deputies have confirmed that at least two of the victims were from Tulare County — Chrisi Lewis and Brian Grabowski. Lewis is from Visalia and Grabowski is from Tulare. One woman, Raegan Heitzig, is still missing and has connections to Visalia. The missing woman, Raegan Heitzig, is an El Diamante High School graduate. She now lives in Ventura, according to her Facebook profile. Two other Tulare County residents were on the boat — Jordan Heitzig and Tabby Grabowski, Brian's wife, family and friends wrote on social media posts. Injuries Tabby Grabowski, a Tulare Union High School teacher, and Jordan Heitzig were airlifted to a hospital in Las Vegas. Both are expected to recover from their injuries. Eight other boaters were taken to local hospitals by ambulance, officials said. Victims Chrisi Lewis, 51, was found dead Monday morning. Lewis is the step-daughter of former Tulare County Sheriff Bill Wittman, according to Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux. She was a charge nurse at Kaweah Delta Medical Center. On Tuesday around 9 a.m., Brian Grabowski, 50, was found by Mohave County sheriff's detectives. Grabowski was a board-certified ocularist. His company, Grabowski and Associates, specializes in custom acrylic ocular prosthetics and has locations throughout California. The third victim of the fatal collision was found by Mohave Sheriff's deputies hours after Grabowski was found. Kirra Drury's body was pulled from the Colorado River Tuesday afternoon, according to the Mohave County Sheriff's Department. Search operations began this morning at 6:30 and will continue throughout the day and into the weekend, if needed. Divers and search and rescue units are on scene and drones and helicopters will be used during search efforts. Search efforts The river remains open, but boaters are being asked to remember that dive teams are in the water. "To clear up potential confusion, the River itself has not been closed. We have and will continue to stop the flow of traffic in designated search areas for the safety of the personnel involved," Schuster said. "We appreciate your ongoing cooperation while these areas are shut down." While the search has reached nearly five miles in every direction of the collision, dive teams are focusing in certain areas. "We have exhausted our broad-based dive efforts but will continue with area location dive operations along with topwater and shoreline search patterns," Schuster said. "It is our deepest desire to provide a measure of closure for the family and all involved. We will continue to do everything within our means to do so and pray for a speedy resolution."<doc-sep>A night on the Colorado River turned tragic when two boats crashed and sank, casting 16 passengers into the rushing water. Four people — three women and one man — were still missing, officials said. The collision occurred about 8 p.m. Saturday between Pirates Cove and the Topock Marina near Moabi Regional Park on the California-Arizona border, authorities said. Search-and-rescue divers were in the water searching for bodies. “I don’t want to give the interpretation that there isn’t a real possibility that they made it to shore,” Mohave County Sheriff Doug Schuster said at an afternoon news briefing. “We are actively treating this as a potential drowning.” The river was packed with holiday visitors at the time of the incident. Those aboard the boats were friends and family, some visiting from outside the area. None of them were wearing life jackets, officials said. Advertisement “It is not mandated that they do, though we encourage it,” Schuster said. It was not clear yet whether alcohol or speeding played a role in the crash, authorities said. The accident occurred just after sunset and low light conditions probably played a role. The Hallett boat carrying 10 people was headed northbound when it collided head-on with a southbound Sleekcraft boat carrying six people, authorities said. Four passengers from the Hallett boat were missing. Two people in critical condition were flown to a hospital in Las Vegas, authorities said. Nine others were taken to hospitals by ambulance. Authorities said no children were on board. “The two boats hit head on at about 50 mph,” knocking more than a dozen people into the water, according to an emergency dispatcher whose report was broadcast on local TV stations. Both boats sank and several people were pulled from the water by passing boaters. Eric Sherwin, a spokesman for the San Bernardino County Fire District, told 3TV/CBS-5 that the river moves fast and can reach depths of up to 30 feet. “We had victims of this collision that were located three to five miles downstream from the original point of impact,” Sherwin said. Advertisement Saturday night, helicopters from Care Flight, the Arizona Department of Public Safety Air Rescue and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department were deployed to the river. The search was called off about 10 p.m. before resuming again early Sunday. Schuster said officials would keep searching the water each day until dark. “We will continue to search until all those who are missing and unaccounted for have been located,” he said. A stretch of the river may be closed intermittently during the recovery effort. Advertisement Investigators at the scene Sunday of a boating accident the night before on the Colorado River north of Lake Havasu. (Mohave County Sheriff’s Office) Four people are still missing after two boats collided on the Colorado River on Saturday. (Los Angeles Times) [email protected] @LATBermudez Advertisement UPDATES: 5:50 p.m.: This article was updated with more information from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Department. 4:35 p.m.: This article was updated with new information from the Mohave County Sheriff’s Department. This article was originally posted at 12:30 p.m.<doc-sep>Family and friends of Kirra Drury and Raegan Heitzig are desperate to find the women after they were thrown from a boat in a crash on the Colorado River Two young women and a man remained missing on Tuesday after a boating accident over the weekend left one person dead and nine injured, authorities say. Close friends Kirra Drury and Raegan Heitzig, both of Ventura, California, have been missing since 8 p.m. on Saturday after a boat they were on crashed head-on into another vessel. The women, along with 14 other passengers, were thrown from the boats into the Colorado River in California. Get push notifications with news, features and more. “My heart is breaking,” Drury’s mother, Denise Olson Drury, wrote in a Facebook post on Monday. She added in a follow-up message: “We are praying for a miracle.” Officials have not publicly identified the women, but friends and family have released Drury and Heitzig’s identities in a desperate search for the friends. colorado-river-4 Credit: Instagram “There was a horrific boating accident,” a family friend of Drury’s wrote on a GoFundMe page for Drury’s mother and sister, Kaley Drury. “This is undoubtedly every mother and sister’s worst nightmare.” On Monday, search teams found the body of 51-year-old Christine Lewis, of Visalia, California, the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday. At a press conference a day earlier, Sheriff Doug Schuster said nine people were injured, two critically, in the incident. Along with Drury and Heitzig, authorities are looking for 49-year-old Brian Grabowski, of Tulare, according to KFSN. Officials with the sheriff’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE. colorado-river-3 Chrisi Lewis | Credit: Facebook As the search for the three continued on Tuesday, Drury and Heitzig’s social media accounts gives a glimpse into the womens’ friendship and their Labor Day weekend getaway. “They loving the crew,” Drury captioned a shot of herself alongside Heitzig and two friends. Heitzig shared a clip of herself attempting to nap on the boat writing, “Swipe to see what it really looks like when you pass out at the lake. expectation—->reality.” Both vessels were going 50 mph at the time of the crash, and the boaters weren’t wearing life jackets, according to ABC News. The vessels collided on a stretch of the Colorado River north near Lake Havasu. colorado-river-2 Brian Grabowski | Credit: Facebook During the press conference, Schuster said there is a “remote” possibility that Heitzig, Drury and Grabowski made it to shore but “technically it’s a dive mission looking for potential drowned victims.” On Monday, Lance Nelson, who Drury identified on social media as her boyfriend, shared an Instagram photo of him and Drury sharing a kiss.<doc-sep>
The body of one of four people missing in a California boating crash was found. One of four people missing since two boats packed with people collided on Saturday night on the Colorado River in California was recovered Monday morning, officials said. Officials said two recreational boats, one carrying 10 people and the other with six, collided head-on. Both vessels were going about 50 mph when the crash occurred, ejecting all 16 boaters into the water. As search-and-rescue crews continued to look for three other boaters who vanished in a popular section of the river near the California-Arizona border, authorities identified the body recovered Monday as Christi Lewis, 51, of California. Lewis' body was pulled from the river about 7:30 a.m. by divers, according to officials at Mohave County Sheriff's Office Division of Boating Safety. "The Mohave County Sheriff's Office will continue to patrol the Colorado River until all the unaccounted for passengers are located," the statement from the agency reads. Two other women and a man, whose names have not been released, remain missing in the Labor Day weekend tragedy. The Mohave County Sheriff's Office announced the search for the remaining three people was suspended Monday night due to "darkness, fatigue, and safety concerns." One diver was injured in the recovery efforts, the sheriff's office said Monday. The injury was termed minor and related to illness. "This detective has been very tenacious with his involvement by participating in over ten dives the last two days trying to do his best to help the family members get some sort of closure," the sheriff's office said. "He is an experienced diver and has served on the department’s dive team for over 15 years with our dive team." Temperatures reached 100 degrees on Monday in the region. The crash happened around 8 p.m. Saturday near Moabi Regional Park on a stretch of the Colorado River north of Lake Havasu. The Mohave County Sheriff's Office will continue to patrol the Colorado River until all the unaccounted for passengers are located. Two people were critically injured in the crash and flown to the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas, officials said. Another seven people were taken to hospitals by ambulance and treated for less serious injuries, officials said. None of the boaters were wearing life-jackets at the time of the crash, officials said. Following the crash, other boaters in the area rushed to pull survivors from the water, officials said.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) – Colorado Springs Police Officer Cem Duzel was shot overnight and was critically hurt in a shootout. “We like to express our gratitude for the outpouring of support from hundreds and hundreds of people from around the country,” the police department said on Facebook Thursday afternoon. “Please keep Officer Duzel and his family in your thoughts and prayers.” Duzel is a 5-year veteran of the Colorado Springs Police Department. A suspect was also shot and wounded but is expected to survive. The shootout took place at approximately 3 a.m. on the 2300 block of East Boulder Street near the intersection of Boulder Street and Bonfoy Avenue, a few blocks away from the U.S. Olympic Training Center. Police Chief Peter Carey said officers were responding to “an armed individual who was firing shots.” The suspect was standing on the street when they arrived. That suspect has been identified as Karrar Noaman Al Khammasi, 31. “When officers arrived on scene they encountered an armed suspect and there was an exchange of gunfire,” Carey said. Police asked that people avoid the area around Boulder Street, Union Boulevard and Platte Avenue while an investigation by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office takes place. “This has been an extremely difficult year with law enforcement officers being hurt or killed, in particular in our region,” Carey said. “Please keep Officer Duzel, his family and the Colorado Springs Police Department in your thoughts and prayers.” RELATED: Community Prays For Cem Duzel, Colorado Springs Officer Wounded In Shooting Duzel underwent surgery after the shooting at UCHealth Memorial Hospital. News outlets wanting to fly drones over the crime scene are interfering and hindering the investigation into the Officer Involved Shooting by EPSO. We are asking the media and citizens to keep their drones grounded until we complete our investigation. pic.twitter.com/4MT4LnRITR — EPCSheriff (@EPCSheriff) August 2, 2018 The sheriff’s office asked that people and media agencies not fly drones near the scene of the investigation. Additional Information from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office: If anyone knows Al Khammasi or has any information about him, please contact the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 719-520-6666 or Crimestoppers at 719-634-7867.<doc-sep>A Colorado man — who had just killed a home intruder moments before — was fatally shot by police after he was mistaken for a burglar. According to police in Aurora, Colo., officers responded to a call on Monday from a woman who said a man was breaking into her house. Described by police as a "very chaotic and violent scene," officers heard gunshots fired from inside the home before encountering an armed man. The man was shot and taken to the hospital where he later died of his injuries. Upon further investigation, Aurora police learned the armed man lived at the house, and had just shot and killed an intruder before encountering officers. "This is a very heartbreaking and tragic situation for everyone involved," said Nick Metz, police chief with the Aurora Police Department, in a statement. "We are providing assistance through our victim advocates to help the family of the deceased resident through this very difficult time." An injured juvenile was also found near the scene of the intruder's shooting, and taken to a local hospital for serious but not life-threatening injuries. The officer involved has been placed on administrative reassignment with pay, said the department, who is working jointly with the Denver Police Department on an investigation. Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.<doc-sep>A 73-year-old Aurora, Colo., man who fatally shot a naked intruder who broke into his home, only to be killed by one of the police officers who responded, may not have heard orders to put down his gun because of a hearing impairment, the police said Thursday. Early Monday morning, Aurora police officers approached a home in the northern part of the city where they believed an intruder was trying to drown an 11-year-old child, Police Chief Nicholas Metz said at a news conference. Officers heard gunshots from inside the home, and as they stood by the front door, they saw Richard Black Jr., a resident of the home, with a gun in one hand and a flashlight in the other, he said. Mr. Black, known as Gary, did not obey at least five commands to drop his gun, Chief Metz said. As he walked toward them, an officer fired four times, fatally shooting Mr. Black. “We don’t know why, but for whatever reason, Mr. Black did not drop the gun,” Chief Metz said. He said the family had told him that Mr. Black had a significant hearing impairment from his time in the military, and it was possible he may not have heard the officers’ orders.<doc-sep>AURORA, Colorado (WABC) -- A police officer fatally shot an armed homeowner in Colorado in an apparent case of mistaken identity after that man had killed an intruder inside his home.Police responded to reports of an intruder early Monday morning, and arriving officers heard gunfire. They confronted a man armed with a gun, and the officer shot and killed him.Authorities now say the armed man was actually the homeowner, who had just killed the intruder.Officials say the intruder was found dead on the bathroom floor. "This is a very heartbreaking and tragic situation for everyone involved," Aurora Police Chief Nick Metz said in a statement. "We are providing assistance through our victim advocates to help the family of the deceased resident through this very difficult time. "An injured juvenile was also in the bathroom. That juvenile was taken to the hospital after receiving injuries from the intruder.The police officer is on paid administrative leave.Neighbors say the homeowner was a retired grandfather who was known for tending to his garden. "Just devastating," one neighbor said. "He was our neighbor. My dad knows him. He is very friendly, you know? Every time we've seen him, he'd wave." ----------<doc-sep>
A Vietnam War veteran defending his home from an intruder was shot and killed by police who mistook the man for the assailant, Colorado authorities said Tuesday. Police responded early Monday to a call made by a woman who said a man had broken into her home, according to police in Aurora, a suburb of Denver. When an officer arrived, he heard a gunshot fired inside the residence. Once he entered the home, the officer found "a very chaotic and violent scene," according to the statement. While inside, the officer saw the armed resident, whom the officer then fatally shot. The officer then cleared the house to secure the scene. The man shot by the officer, identified by a family member to NBC affiliate KUSA of Denver as Richard Black Jr., 73, was transported to a hospital, where he died. "This is a very heartbreaking and tragic situation for everyone involved," Aurora Police Chief Nick Metz said in a statement. Police have not identified the resident or the intruder. Qusair Mohamedbhai, a lawyer representing Black's family, told KUSA that the intruder grabbed Black's 11-year-old grandson, who was sleeping on a couch, and dragged him to a bathroom, where he attacked the boy. Police confirmed that an unidentified juvenile was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening but serious injuries. Black and the boy's father tried to pull the attacker off the child, but after a struggle, Black grabbed his gun and shot and killed the man, Mohamedbhai said. Moments later, Mohamedbhai said, the Aurora officer shot and killed Black, who was licensed as a certified public accountant in Colorado from 1999 to 2008. Mohamedbhai told the station that Black's wife, Jeanette Black, gave a detailed description of her husband and what he was wearing when she called 911. He said there is evidence to suggest that while Black was inside the home, the officer who shot him was outside. The police officer has been placed on administrative reassignment with pay while the shooting is investigated, according to the statement.
Lily Allen has spoken about the state of music and politics at the Mercury Prize, ahead of the ceremony later this evening (September 20). Watch our video interview with Allen above. Speaking to NME, Allen said she would most “like to lose” to Nadine Shah because her album addresses political themes that many artists aren’t. Allen said: “I think that there is a bit of a cultural cold war thing going on at the moment…capitalism is [the] main enemy. It should be arts and culture and it feels like politics has never been in such a drastic state as it is in this country and America, lots of the Western world hasn’t been as bad as it is now for a long time.” Allen added: “I don’t know where The Clash is and I don’t know where The Sex Pistols are…but [Shah] is doing it.” Saying she didn’t “feel lucky at all” and that she “definitely [isn’t] going to win,” Allen said she was “nervous” about the performance. You can watch Allen’s comments in full here: When asked what she would do with the £25,000 prize money if she did win, Allen said she would use the money to support female artists in the industry. “I feel more like the music industry could do with a women-fronted collective, a union…I would be really happy to put that money towards starting something like that.” Today also marks the release of Allen’s tell-all memoir, ‘My Thoughts Exactly.’ When asked about the most challenging aspect of the book to deal with upon release, Allen said it was speaking about the alleged sexual assault she experienced. Allen told NME: “The sexual assault saga which is difficult to talk about at the best of times but it felt like it was something that I needed to say and its there for a reason.” Allen recently claimed in an interview with Guardian Weekend that even after the #MeToo movement, sexual abuse remains rife in the music industry as people are too scared to speak out. The singer, who has alluded to the assault before, went on to detail her own experience of abuse from a record executive. Allen says she wanted to name the exec in her book but was advised not to for legal reasons. Speaking about the award earlier today, Allen said she hoped winning the award would help her shed her “caricature image.” “There is a caricature version of myself which is portrayed in the mainstream press, and the artist part of me gets lost a lot of the time,” she told Sky News. “Already being nominated has helped with that immensely, but to win would just be amazing.” The singer, whose latest album ‘No Shame’ was released earlier this year, has previously opened up about sleeping with female escorts in the wake of the break down of her marriage and suffering from post-natal depression. Lily Allen on tour Allen’s upcoming UK and Ireland tour dates are below. Tickets are available here. Tuesday December 11 2018 – DUBLIN Olympia Theatre Thursday December 13 2018 – GLASGOW Barrowland Friday December 14 2018 – BIRMINGHAM O2 Institute Sunday December 16 2018 – MANCHESTER Albert Hall Monday December 17 2018 – LONDON Roundhouse<doc-sep>LILY Allen burst into tears after she missed out on winning last night's Mercury Prize. The singer, 33, was shortlisted for the honour but lost to Wolf Alice at the ceremony inside Hammersmith Apollo. 7 Lily Allen burst into tears after she missed out on winning the Mercury Prize After the bash Lily tweeted a video of her performance and wrote: "Someone call 999 I’ve been robbed." She received many messages of support from her fans and went on to write: "I adore @wolfalice tho, and they are very deserved winners. Next time......... imma win that b***h." Lily performed a stripped back version of her song Apples on the night from her latest album No Shame. She soon reclaimed her composure and was pictured smiling as she left the venue. 7 Wolf Alice won this year's Mercury Prize, triumphing over Arctic Monkeys and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds Credit: PA:Press Association/PA Images 7 Lily previously told Sky News of her desire to win the award, explaining: "There is a caricature version of myself which is portrayed in the mainstream press, and the artist part of me gets lost a lot of the time. "Already being nominated has helped with that immensely, but to win would just be amazing." Wolf Alice's critically-acclaimed second album Visions Of A Life bowled the judges over and landed the four-piece the £25,000 prize. Singer Ellie Rowsell said: "This means so much to pick this up with my three best friends. Guitarist Theo Ellis told the crowd about the band's struggle in the industry and a record label's negative reaction to their image. He defiantly said: "But here we are, so f**k you!” The band were the final act to perform on the night, delivering a perfect Don’t Delete the Kisses, with Ellie prancing around barefoot. 7 She soon reclaimed her composure and was pictured smiling as she left the venue, clutching her nominee award Credit: Splash News 7 Noel Gallagher with Nadine Shah and Florence Welch Credit: Rex Features 7 Florence with last year's winner Sampha Credit: Rex Features Official music video for Wolf Alice's Beautifully Unconventional MOST READ IN TV & SHOWBIZ KIM'S NEW KRUSH The men lining up to be Kim K's next partner as Kanye ‘dates Irina Shayk’ JOSS PERFECT Jac Jossa shows off her tiny waist after weight loss in pretty summer dresses 'WE'LL SEE' Louise Redknapp revealed Jamie wanted another baby when she was on Strictly GRANDE AFFAIR Ariana dazzles in white gown as she shares private pics from secret wedding a wright treat! Mark Wright gives fans tour of new £2,400 a night home with Michelle Keegan Exclusive ARG-AIN James ‘Arg’ Argent's set to reunite with 'love of his life' ex Lydia Bright Nadine Shah's album holiday destination had been the pre-ceremony favourite and from the sound of a raucous Out the Way it was easy to see why, however, it wasn't meant to be. The judging panel said of Wolf Alice: “From an incredibly broad list of remarkable music, Wolf Alice emerged as the overall winner due to their ability to deliver an album that combines the epic and intimate in equal measure. "It is a journey of a record – with euphoric festival anthems and moments of subtle beauty – it is an album articulated with confidence and adventure. For them, the world awaits!” 7 Nadine Shah's album holiday destination had been the pre-ceremony favourite Credit: Rex Features Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.<doc-sep>
Mercury Prize nominee Lily Allen says winning the award would help ditch her "caricature image" and make a huge difference to her life. Despite being one of the more established acts in the running for the prestigious music honour, the 33-year old said taking home the award would help change the public's perception of her. Allen's fourth studio record - No Shame - is one of the 12 shortlisted albums in the running for this year's Mercury Prize. Ahead of Thursday's ceremony, she told Sky News: "There is a caricature version of myself which is portrayed in the mainstream press, and the artist part of me gets lost a lot of the time. Image: Lily Allen is nominated for the Mercury Prize for her album No Shame "Already being nominated has helped with that immensely, but to win would just be amazing." No Shame was written during the breakdown of Allen's seven-year marriage to builder and decorator Sam Cooper. It also followed the poor reception to her third album, Sheezus. Allen said the writing process for her latest work was "cathartic". She told Sky News: "When things started not to go to plan with my third album, I felt like a massive failure - not just for myself, but that I'd let everybody else around me down. That was a real struggle. "This album has been about figuring out what my intentions are with this work. Image: The singer says she felt like a 'massive failure' with her third album Sheezus "It wasn't really to get on the radio or brand endorsements. "It was about explaining how I felt and putting that to music and I feel like I've achieved that." Allen says if she scoops the £25,000 Mercury Prize winnings she would spend it on forming a women-led musicians union. Fellow nominee Nadine Shah is hotly-tipped with bookies as the favourite to take home the prize. Other high profile artists vying for the best album prize include Arctic Monkeys, Florence + The Machine and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Only two debut albums have made it into the competition this year - Jorga Smith's Lost And Found and Novelist's Novelist Guy. While Richard Russell's Everything Is Recorded is technically his debut album, the music producer (who is responsible for signing Adele) is an old hand in the music industry. Other acts in the running for the prize are Everything Everything, King Krule, Nadine Shah, Sons Of Kemet and Wolf Alice. All of the acts - with the exception of Gallagher - are due to perform at the ceremony on Thursday. The winner will be announced live on BBC Four just after 10pm.
The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t take a break after they got done with what was already a busy 2018 NBA Draft night for the team, signing Malik Newman to one of their pair of two-way contracts and also adding Joel Berry II to start undrafted free agency, according to Shams Charania of Yahoo Sports. Sources: Undrafted Kansas guard Malik Newman has agreed to a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. — Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 22, 2018 North Carolina’s Joel Berry II has agreed to an undrafted free-agent deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, league sources tell Yahoo. Berry was four-year standout at UNC and part of national championship team in 2017. — Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 22, 2018 The team didn’t stop there, also signing Jeffrey Carroll of Oklahoma State to an Exhibit 10 deal, which allows the Lakers to guarantee him money while still having the freedom to convert his contract into a two-way contract before the start of the season: The Los Angeles Lakers and Jeffrey Carroll (Oklahoma State) have agreed to an Exhibit 10 deal, a league source told The Athletic. — Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) June 22, 2018 Update: Carroll confirmed that report on Twitter. Thankful for the opportunity to join the @Lakers organization! Thank you guys for the support throughout this process. It's only the beginning! #LakeShow — Jeffrey Carroll (@J30Carroll) June 22, 2018 Malik Newman appears to be pretty easily the most likely of these names to actually make an impact on the Lakers. The Kansas guard was the 58th-ranked prospect on Jonathan Givony of ESPN’s list of the top 100 2018 NBA Draft prospects, and he averaged 14.2 points five rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 46.3 percent from the field in his sophomore season with the Jayhawks. For a deeper scouting report on Newman, I reached out to Scott Chasen of 247Sports, who covered Newman locally for the Lawrence Journal-World and Topeka Capital-Journal: After transferring from Mississippi State to KU, the plan was always for Malik Newman to play one year and then go pro. He came into the season with high expectations, with some in the program believing he’d lead the team in scoring. Ultimately, he got off to a slow start, though he did hit a huge shot in the team’s second game against Kentucky. Newman broke out with a 27-point outing in conference play against Iowa State. By the time the postseason came around, he became a different player. Newman had six 20 point games in the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments. He scored 30 in the Big 12 tournament opener against Oklahoma State, went off against Seton Hall in the Round of 32 and dropped 32 against Duke in the Elite Eight. He also guarded Grayson Allen in that game and did a phenomenal job defensively. Newman can score from just about anywhere on the court. He’s a great shooter, can work in the mid-range and has a knack for getting to the rim and finishing. He didn’t draw a ton of free throws, but he developed this reputation as a guy that would get to the cup late in games when other teams would start to wear down. He isn’t a great facilitator and needs to improve his handle, but he still has time to work on those parts of his game. Defensively, Newman was inconsistent. He’s actually a pretty decent on-ball defender, but he isn’t great off-ball. He is, however, a tremendous defensive rebounder for his size. He can go up and snatch a board and then start a break, which should be a valuable tool in the NBA. All of those make Newman sound like a pretty solid get for a guy on a two-way contract, and his advanced numbers are also pretty decent: Malik Newman Top NBA comps: Cedi Osman, DeMarre Carroll, Abdel Nader, Danny Green, Kelly Oubre Jr. Offensive Role: Spot Up Wing, 44th %ile poss share CPOE: 83rd O-PIPM: 77th D-PIPM: 8th https://t.co/qg75gLgJbx — Cranjis McBasketball (@T1m_NBA) June 22, 2018 As for Berry II and Jeffrey Carroll, neither is likely to make the Lakers’ full-time roster. Carroll was the 96th overall prospect on Givony’s big board, while Berry II was not listed. Either player could potentially use a strong showing on either of the Lakers’ summer league teams to start a debate on whether or not they should play a bigger role going forward, but for now it seems safe to assume that Newman is the main get here. All stats per ESPN.com. You can follow Harrison on Twitter at @hmfaigen.<doc-sep>Bill Self knows it might not be the worst thing in the world for a player to go undrafted. "The bottom line is you'd rather get in the right situation than you would go for the number," said the KU coach following the 2018 NBA Draft. "I think [from a] pride standpoint, everybody wants to hear their name called, and who wouldn't? But for actually making the team, it's more important to have the right fit." That comment came in reference to two former KU players who went undrafted in the event. Billy Preston, who left college before appearing in a game for the Jayhawks, and Malik Newman, consistently projected as a second rounder, both were left on the board following the conclusion of the draft. Newman was quickly snatched up by the Los Angeles Lakers, reportedly signing a two-way deal to join fellow former Jayhawk Svi Mykhailiuk, who the Lakers took with the No. 47-overall pick. Still, Self was left disappointed for Newman, who he thought had worked his way into the draft with his dominant postseason performance. "I'm really disappointed for Malik. I'm disappointed. This isn't what we expected," Self noted. "I don't think it's awful. I don't think it's awful. I think it's probably very disappointing for those two, particularly Malik, to know how strong he finished the season and the value he was to us at Kansas." Sure enough, Newman scored 20 points in six of the team's eight postseason games, earning the nickname "Postseason Malik." He scored 32 points in KU's Elite Eight win over Duke and played strong defense on Duke's Grayson Allen, who scored only 12 points on 13 field-goal attempts in the contest. Allen, by the way, was selected by the Utah Jazz in the first round. However, perhaps sensing the unpredictability of the draft, Self spoke with Newman's father to discuss the very scenario that ended up happening. "There are some disadvantages of sometimes going late in the draft. Of course, it wasn't a disadvantage for [Manu] Ginobili. I think he went 59 if I'm not mistaken, but there are some times where that occurs where you'd be better off being a free agent and pick[ing]," Self said. "But the fit is much more important than the number, without question. We talked about that with his dad today." As for the other former Jayhawk, Self noted in the days leading up to the draft it was hard to get a sense of Preston's stock. Preston, a five-star recruit out of high school, sat out pending an investigation into his eligibility — centering around gaining a "clearer financial picture" into a car he was driving. He only appeared in three games for Bosnian squad BC Igokea and then returned to the U.S. after undergoing an injury. Despite being invited to the combine, Preston opted not to participate in the 5-on-5 events. That, combined with everything else, left enough uncertainty among teams to keep him from being drafted. "Billy, we talked to some people, people told us that Billy was kind of all over the board," Self said. "Everybody was really, really high on his talent. But you know, they haven't seen him much." But again, Self said, there may be a silver lining. "I would much rather be at the right place," Self said, "than be drafted by a team that really has no intention [of you] making the team — except maybe making you a two-way player or putting you in the G-league." Preston, for what it's worth, seemed to agree. "Many Blessings come in disguises," Preston tweeted. "In Due Time...#UNDRAFTED."<doc-sep>
It didn't take long for Malik Newman to catch on with an NBA team. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft, Newman reportedly signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. Yahoo Sports' Shams Charania first reported the news. The KC Star confirmed the report via Newman's father. Newman, a five-star recruit out of high school, played his first season at Mississippi State before transferring and sitting out a year in Lawrence. In his time off the court, Newman drew high expectations. KU coach Bill Self viewed him as a potential team scoring leader and All-Big 12 type talent. Despite a key performance against Kentucky in just the second game of the season — Newman scored 12 points, grabbed nine rebounds and hit a key 3 late in the contest — the redshirt-sophomore got off to a slow start, not really finding his footing until a 27-point eruption against Iowa State in the teeth of Big 12 play and back-to-back 20-plus point outings against Baylor and Oklahoma a week-and-a-half later. Newman was playing his best basketball by the end of the season. He opened up the Big 12 tournament with a 30-point outing, hitting on 11 of his 15 attempts from the floor. He scored 42 points and grabbed 12 rebounds over his next two contests at the event — helping lead the Jayhawks to the Big 12 tournament championship — and continued that string of play into the NCAA tournament. "Postseason Malik," as he became known by his teammates, scored 20-or-more points in six of his final eight games. He went off for 28 points in the team's Round of 32 win over Seton Hall and then surpassed that total, erupting for a career-best 32 points in KU's Elite Eight victory over Duke. In that game, Newman defended Duke senior Grayson Allen — the No. 21-overall pick in the draft to the Utah Jazz — holding him to 12 points on 3-for-13 shooting and defending him on the final possession of regulation. Allen put up a floater that missed off the rim and the game went to overtime. Newman finished his season averaging 14.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 41.5 percent from 3. Like the other Jayhawks in the event, he participated in a host of workouts in the pre-draft process. Newman will now join a Lakers squad that went just 35-47 last year. He won't be the only Jayhawk on the team, joining second-round pick Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk in Los Angeles. Mykhailiuk was selected with the No. 47-overall pick after wowing the Lakers in a pre-draft workout. One source, in fact, told Phog.net he had been told Mykhailiuk "had the best workout of anyone that they've brought in so far." Newman's first action, like several rookies, will likely come at the NBA Summer League. While there are smaller circuits in Utah and Sacramento — both ranging from July 2-5 — all 30 teams will be participating in the NBA's Las Vegas Summer League, which spans from July 6-17.
It’s Week 8, the halfway point of the 2018 NFL season, but for the Cleveland Browns, it’s Steelers Week. For the second (and perhaps final) time this year, the Browns take on the Steelers, this time in the not-so-friendly confines of Pittsburgh’s Heinz Field. The matchup highlights the Week 8 AFC North Roundup. However, the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals are well in the race to win the divisional crown and both have difficult matchups against NFC South opponents on Sunday. The Bengals host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers while the Baltimore Ravens head to Carolina to face the Panthers. With a close division, in which no one team can yet be ruled out, this is a crucial week for all four squads. Here’s the latest around the division for this final full week of October. Pittsburgh Steelers: Behind the Steel Curtain has a plethora of intel for Browns fans looking to scout this week’s enemy. Simon Chester breaks down how linebacker T.J. Watt has become “the Browns’ worst nightmare on defense.” And Jeff Hartman’s findings belie a warning to Cleveland defensive coordinator Gregg Williams: Blitzing quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is not going to work. On the injury front, the bye week has been helpful for the return of two Steelers defenders. Chester reports that safety Morgan Burnett and linebacker L.J. Fort were both full participants in Wednesday’s practice session. However, right tackle Marcus Gilbert sat out with a knee injury, which calls into question his availability for Sunday. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have made three roster moves thus far this week, reports Rebecca Toback. They have placed tight end Mason Schreck on injured reserve and promoted tight end Jordan Franks from the practice squad, and they signed linebacker Brandon Bell to take Franks’ spot on the practice squad. Tight end has been a snakebitten position for the Bengals this year. Tyler Eifert and Cethan Carter are both on injured reserve, while Tyler Kroft is working his way back from a broken foot. Nick Manchester looks back to Week 7 and breaks down the three things learned from the Bengals’ big loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday night. One takeaway? That quarterback Andy Dalton needs the help of his entire cast of skill players in order to perform at a high level. Meanwhile, Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has another thought on why Cincy faltered against the Chiefs: Tackling. Patrick Judis and Matt Minich report that the Bengals missed 18 tackles on Sunday night, with 12 different players missing at least one. Linebacker Vontaze Burfict led the team in misses, with four. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens have spent years trying to find at least one go-to wide receiver who quarterback Joe Flacco can trust. Baltimore Beatdown’s Jacob Loque says John Brown has taken on that role this year, writing, “It’s fair to say the Ravens haven’t seen this type of consistent effort and explosiveness from a receiver since Steve Smith Sr. had a renaissance of his own in purple and black.” This season has proven that the Oakland Raiders have been more than willing to trade even their most talented players. And that’s where Logan Levy turns when examining potential trade targets for the Ravens as the October 30 deadline approaches. He identifies two Raiders the Ravens could use, as well as the ideal compensation to send in return.<doc-sep>PITTSBURGH -- The spin move to get loose. The stiff-arm in the end zone. The "Con-ner! Con-ner!" chants from the Heinz Field crowd. James Conner is no longer a fill-in, but is a major catalyst for the Pittsburgh Steelers' 2018 season. NFL scores, standings and more Everything you need this week: • 2018 playoffs coverage » • Full schedule » | Full standings » • 2019 draft order: Every first-round pick » More NFL coverage » He can play. He has left little doubt. Conner's monstrous second half helped seal the Steelers' 33-18 win over the Cleveland Browns and strengthen their position in the AFC North. Over the span of two drives in the third and fourth quarters, Conner gashed the Browns for 95 total yards and a score. The Steelers were reeling after several mental mistakes before Conner spun his way to a 30-yard gain to start a third-quarter scoring drive. “I’m just running hard,” Conner said when asked if he’s getting stronger by the week after compiling 525 yards over a three-game stretch. Conner started the game with 36 yards on 12 carries but finished with an explosive 146 yards on 24 carries along with five receptions for 66 yards. That gives Conner a startling 404 total yards in two games against the Browns. That will do. Steelers players kept pumping up Conner publicly over the last two months, and it was not an empty proposition. They feel strongly about their running back, with or without Le'Veon Bell. He's ready for AFC North football, and so is an offensive line that has been stellar the last three weeks. “He wants to be that guy,” guard Ramon Foster said of Conner. “He plays with a passion that’s out of this world.” But the cheers for Conner and the offense sounded more like boos early on after the Steelers failed to record a first down in the first 17 minutes. Completions to the sideline to Antonio Brown and Justin Hunter loosened things up. James Conner rushed for 146 yards and two touchdowns and punished the Browns in the second half. Jeffrey Becker/USA TODAY Sports The avalanche of big plays followed. The Ben Roethlisberger-Brown improv show commenced, with the quarterback escaping the rush and throwing on the run to a sprinting Brown for the 43-yard score. Minutes later, cornerback Joe Haden went high for the interception on a Baker Mayfield deep ball. The Steelers have been brilliant all year in the two-minute offense to end the first half. A 16-play, 87-yard scoring drive spanning seven-plus minutes marked the Steelers' fourth touchdown of the season in the final two minutes before halftime. Roethlisberger capped the game with a 1-yard score to Brown on a screen pass with 8 seconds left. The Steelers gave the Browns too much life in the third quarter with four mental mistakes in a span of minutes. Pittsburgh had a 10-point lead and the ball with eight minutes left in the third, but the Browns recovered a free kick that the Steelers let drop. Returner Ryan Switzer admitted he and Brown thought the play was dead when the ball hit the ground. Fullback Roosevelt Nix appeared to call for the ball but didn’t secure it. “Just a miscommunication,” said Switzer, who stressed he has to know the rules. The Browns recovered, then marched downfield with the help of three Steelers penalties for roughing the passer, holding and pass interference. Mayfield's touchdown pass to Antonio Callaway cut the Steelers' lead to 12. On the Steelers' next offensive play, though, Conner spun off a Browns lineman, broke a tackle and pointed to the Heinz Field turf after his 30-yard game, calling it "my house." Turns out he was just getting started. He sealed the game with a 22-yard score and multiple "Let's go!" yells from the sideline. That was Conner’s seventh rush of 20-plus yards, four more than Bell recorded all of last season. “We knew the splash plays were on the way,” Conner said. Conner has 922 scrimmage yards, the second-most in franchise history through the first seven games of a season, trailing Bell’s 938 in 2014. That number pairs well with an improving defense that hasn’t allowed more than 21 points in the last three weeks. The Steelers had two sacks but should have had many more. They were hitting Mayfield early and often. The Browns had 85 second-half yards, most of which came on a last-minute drive in garbage time. The defense looks more organized after several miscommunications and missed tackles in the first month. “We decided to put all the BS aside,” said linebacker Bud Dupree, who got held in the end zone to draw a safety.<doc-sep>
The Cleveland Browns relish their "tremendous opportunity" to close ground in the AFC North Division in Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. CLEVELAND -- The race for the top spot in the AFC North Division is a tight one, and the Cleveland Browns are hoping to make it a little tighter come Sunday. After fighting to a 21-21 tie in the 2018 regular-season opener at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, the Browns get a return match against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, a place they have not won since 2003. “I think they are ready to play,” Browns coach Hue Jackson said of his players. “I think they understand what is at stake. We have not won on the road. We have not won in Pittsburgh. They hear it all. It is no question. “We understand that we are in this race. You go win this game, you are way in this race. It is a huge game. It is a tremendous opportunity for us, and it is a huge stage, so let’s go conquer this. Let’s go to Pittsburgh and play the best football game we have played all year and go win the game.” Down by a 21-7 count midway through the fourth quarter, the Browns scored 14 unanswered points to draw even with the Steelers in the waning moments of the season-opening tie. However, neither team was able to mount a drive that resulted in points in the overtime session. After forcing their sixth turnover of the game when rookie linebacker Genard Avery stripped Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger of the football on a sack, which fellow linebacker Joe Schobert recovered, the Browns had a first-and-10 at Pittsburgh’s 24-yard line. Three plays later, kicker Zane Gonzalez had a 43-yard game-winning field goal attempt blocked by Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt. “Just to see that we tied with them the first time, we definitely want to get this win,” linebacker Christian Kirksey said. “We still have not had a division loss. For us to have the opportunity to play another division opponent and with this rivalry that we have with them, it would be good to get a win and keep our momentum going. “Things in the last game could have gone different ways. I am pretty sure that they are thinking the same things. If a play or two could have gone a different way, then it could have been a different outcome of the game. This game will definitely be intense. It is a road game for us. We have to win on the road, and I think we will.” All but one of the Browns’ four losses this season have come because of a field goal in the last minute of regulation or overtime. Despite being close in three of those four losses, the Browns still find themselves two games behind the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens in the win column and two in the loss column in back of the Steelers in the AFC North Division standings. “It is a big game,” wide receiver Jarvis Landry said. “We understand that. We understand that. It is no secret. We have to win the game. We want to win the game. “That is our mindset going into the game and going against any team, but obviously, more importantly, in the division. If you can win in the division, you have a pretty good chance of making it to the playoffs. That is part of our goals and one of our goals. This is a big one for us.”
BEIJING — China reached a milestone in space exploration on Thursday, landing a vehicle on the far side of the moon for the first time in history, the country’s space agency announced. The landing of the probe, called Chang’e-4 after the moon goddess in Chinese mythology, is one in a coming series of missions that underscore the country’s ambitions to join — and even lead — the space race. China landed another rover on the moon in 2013, joining the United States and the Soviet Union as the only nations to have carried out a “soft landing” there, but the Chang’e-4 is the first to touch down on the side of the moon that perpetually faces away from the Earth. The mission “has opened a new chapter in humanity’s exploration of the moon,” the China National Space Administration said in an announcement on its website. The agency said the spacecraft landed at 10:26 a.m. Beijing time at its target on the far side of the moon.<doc-sep>China Moon mission lands Chang'e-4 spacecraft on far side Published 3 January 2019 comments Comments media caption Far side of Moon captured by Chinese spacecraft China says it has successfully landed a robotic spacecraft on the far side of the Moon, the first ever such attempt and landing. At 10:26 Beijing time (02:26 GMT), the un-crewed Chang'e-4 probe touched down in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, state media said. It is carrying instruments to analyse the unexplored region's geology, as well to conduct biological experiments. The landing is being seen as a major milestone in space exploration. There have been numerous missions to the Moon in recent years, but the vast majority have been to orbit, fly by or impact. The last crewed landing was Apollo 17 in 1972. image copyright EPA/CNSA image caption All pictures and data have to be bounced off a separate satellite The Chang'e-4 probe has already sent back its first pictures from the surface, which were shared by state media. With no direct communication link possible, all pictures and data have to be bounced off a separate satellite before being relayed to Earth. Why is this Moon landing so significant? Previous Moon missions have landed on the Earth-facing side, but this is the first time any craft has landed successfully on the unexplored and rugged far side. Some spacecraft have crashed into the far side, either after system failures, or after they had completed their mission. Ye Quanzhi, an astronomer at Caltech, told the BBC this was the first time China had "attempted something that other space powers have not attempted before". image copyright EPA/CNSA image caption The far side is not visible from the Earth due to "tidal locking" The Chang'e-4 was launched from Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in China on 7 December; it arrived in lunar orbit on 12 December. It was then directed to lower itself toward the Moon, being careful to identify and avoid obstacles, Chinese state media say. The Chang'e-4 probe is aiming to explore a place called the Von Kármán crater, located within the much larger South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin - thought to have been formed by a giant impact early in the Moon's history. "This huge structure is over 2,500km (1,550 miles) in diameter and 13km deep, one of the largest impact craters in the Solar System and the largest, deepest and oldest basin on the Moon," Andrew Coates, professor of physics at UCL's Mullard Space Science Laboratory in Surrey, told the BBC. The event responsible for carving out the SPA basin is thought to have been so powerful, it punched through the Moon's crust and down into the zone called the mantle. Researchers will want to train the instruments on any mantle rocks exposed by the calamity. The science team also hopes to study parts of the sheet of melted rock that would have filled the newly formed South Pole-Aitken Basin, allowing them to identify variations in its composition. A third objective is to study the far-side regolith, the broken up rocks and dust that make up the surface, which will help us understand the formation of the Moon. What else might we learn from this mission? Chang'e-4's static lander is carrying two cameras; a German-built radiation experiment called LND; and a spectrometer that will perform low-frequency radio astronomy observations. Scientists believe the far side could be an excellent place to perform radio astronomy, because it is shielded from the radio noise of Earth. The spectrometer work will aim to test this idea. image copyright Getty Images image caption A mock-up of the Chang'e-4 lander and rover, on display in Dongguan, China The lander also carried a container with six live species from Earth - cotton, rapeseed, potato, fruit fly, yeast and arabidopsis (a flowering plant) - to try to form a mini biosphere. The arabidopsis plant may produce the first flower on the Moon, Chinese state media say. Other equipment/experiments include: A panoramic camera A radar to probe beneath the lunar surface An imaging spectrometer to identify minerals An experiment to examine the interaction of the solar wind (a stream of energised particles from the Sun) with the lunar surface The mission is part of a larger Chinese programme of lunar exploration. The first and second Chang'e missions were designed to gather data from orbit, while the third and fourth were built for surface operations. Chang'e-5 and 6 are sample return missions, delivering lunar rock and soil to laboratories on Earth. Is there a 'dark side of the Moon'? The lunar far side is often referred to as the "dark side", though "dark" in this case means "unseen" rather than "lacking light". In fact, both the near and far sides of the Moon experience daytime and nighttime. But because of a phenomenon called "tidal locking", we see only one face of the Moon from Earth. This is because the Moon takes just as long to rotate on its own axis as it takes to complete one orbit of Earth. The far side has a thicker, older crust that is pocked with more craters. There are also very few of the "maria" - dark basaltic "seas" created by lava flows - that are evident on the near side. How will scientists keep track of the rover? In an article for the US-based Planetary Society in September, Dr Long Xiao from the China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), said: "The challenge faced by a far side mission is communications. With no view of Earth, there is no way to establish a direct radio link." So the landers must communicate with Earth using a relay satellite named Queqiao - or Magpie Bridge - launched by China last May. Queqiao orbits 65,000km beyond the Moon, around a Lagrange point - a kind of gravitational parking spot in space where it will remain visible to ground stations in China and other countries such as Argentina. What are China's plans in space? China wants to become a leading power in space exploration, alongside the United States and Russia. In 2017 it announced it was planning to send astronauts to the Moon.<doc-sep>China is aiming to send a spacecraft to Mars next year, following its successful mission to the far side of the moon. Lunar rover Jade Rabbit 2 and explorer Chang'e 4 landed on the moon in recent days and have now taken pictures of each other for scientists to study. Officials at the Chinese space agency say they now plan to send a probe to Mars in 2020 and aim to follow that up with manned missions to the planet. Chang'e 4 and its three predecessors were named after a Chinese goddess, who legend says has lived on the moon for thousands of years. According to the deputy director of the country's space agency, Wu Yanhua, the successful mission marked a turning point for Chinese space exploration. Advertisement Image: The moon lander Chang'e 4. Pic: CLEP Its first mission to Mars, Yinghuo, ended in failure in 2012 when the spacecraft carrying the probe disintegrated after failing to enter orbit around Earth. However, now the Chinese National Space Administration reports that its space missions are proceeding as planned, with the spacecraft working well after landing on the far side of the moon. Mr Yanhua said that the CNSA was keen to partner with outside organisations in the future: "We welcome international collaboration in developing devices aboard the spacecraft as well as domestic and foreign investment." The first part of CNSA's Mars mission will involve putting a probe into orbit around the planet, but not at the expense of continued lunar activity. Image: China's lunar rover Jade Rabbit 2. Pic: CLEP "We are studying the programme of sending astronauts to the moon but it's still in very early stages," said Mr Yanhua, adding: "We haven't got the approval yet." CNSA will also seek to construct a research station at the lunar south pole as China aims to assert itself as the equal of the US in space exploration. "China trailed others when it came to space missions, until Chang'e 4, humankind's first spacecraft to land on the far side of the moon," said Wu Weiren, the chief scientist of the Chang'e 4 programme. He explained the sense of national pride in the mission: "It proves that China can do something that no other country has achieved in space exploration."<doc-sep>A mural of George Floyd is shown in the intersection of 38th St & Chicago Ave on March 31, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Community members continue preparations during the third day in the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who is charged with multiple counts of murder in the death of George Floyd. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 01: President Donald Trump's lawyer and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani talks to journalists outside the White House West Wing July 01, 2020 in Washington, DC. Giuliani did an on-camera interview with One America News Network's Chanel Rion before talking to other journalists about Vice President Joe Biden and the news that Russian intelligence may have paid Taliban operatives to kill U.S. troops in Afghanistan. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) ORLANDO, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Former President Donald Trump addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference held in the Hyatt Regency on February 28, 2021 in Orlando, Florida. Begun in 1974, CPAC brings together conservative organizations, activists, and world leaders to discuss issues important to them. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Here's what reported grand jury in Trump case may look like NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 09: People walk past the Trump Tower as the impeachment trial of Donald Trump begins in Washington on February 09, 2021 in New York City. After listening to nearly four hours of legal arguments, the Senate has voted on Tuesday to move ahead with the impeachment trial of former President Trump. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Report: US companies may have benefited from forced labor of Uyghurs WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 20: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the conflict in the Middle East from Cross- Hall of the White House on May 20, 2021 in Washington, DC. Israel and Hamas announced that they would agree to a cease-fire, which will take into effect on Friday, following days of fighting that claimed more than 200 lives. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) SAN JOSE, CA - MAY 26: A view of the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light-rail yard where a mass shooting occurred on May 26, 2021 in San Jose, California. A VTA employee opened fire at the yard, with preliminary reports indicating nine people dead including the gunman. (Photo by Philip Pacheco/Getty Images) A healthcare worker prepares to administer a Pfizer/BioNTEch coronavirus disease (Covid-19) vaccine at The Michener Institute, in Toronto, Ontario on December 14, 2020. - Ontario, Canada's most populous province and one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, had 1,940 new cases and 23 deaths on Monday. The province is expected to give its next doses to nursing home workers as a priority, according to media reports. (Photo by CARLOS OSORIO / POOL / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS OSORIO/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) 'Never seen levels like this': Union president on airline passenger misconduct Memorial Day weekend will bring rain and cool air for much of the East China lands on the far side of the moon In this image provided on Jan. 3, 2019, by China's Xinhua News Agency, a simulated landing process of Chang'e-4 lunar probe is seen through the monitor at Beijing Aerospace Control Center in Beijing. A Chinese spacecraft on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, made the first-ever landing on the far side of the moon, state media said. (Jin Liwang/Xinhua News via AP) Explore humanity’s first moon landing through newly discovered and restored archival footage. CNN Films “Apollo 11” premieres Sunday, June 23 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. (CNN) — In a historic first, China has landed a rover on the far side of the moon, state media announced Thursday, a huge milestone for the nation as it attempts to position itself as a leading space power. China’s National Space Administration landed the rover at 10:26 a.m. Beijing time in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, the moon’s largest and oldest impact crater, China Central Television reported. It made its final descent from an elliptical orbit 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) above the moon’s surface, making a “smooth” and “precise” landing, according to the general designer of the probe Chang’e 4, Sun Zezhou, who added that the spacecraft pulled off a “bull’s-eye.” AP The first image of the moon's far side taken after the Chang'e 4 probe landed. State media reported that the rover, which China has named Yutu-2, or Jade Rabbit-2, transmitted back the world’s first close-range image of the far side of the moon. The rover was named in a global poll in August. In Chinese foklore, Yutu is the white pet rabbit of Chang’e, the moon goddess after which the Chinese lunar mission is named, state media Xinhua reported. Several hours after touchdown, the rover separated from the lander on the moon’s surface and began its mission. The far side of the moon is the hemisphere that never faces Earth, due to the moon’s rotation. It is sometimes mistakenly referred to as the “dark side of the moon,” even though it receives just as much sunlight as its Earth-facing side. AP Another image of the moon taken by the probe. The success of the mission represents a landmark in human space exploration. The area where the probe has landed faces away from Earth, meaning it is free from radio frequencies. As a result, it is not possible for a lunar rover to communicate directly with ground control. To overcome this hurdle, China launched a dedicated satellite orbiting the moon last year that will be able to relay information from the rover to Earth. “China is on the road to become a strong space nation. And this marks one of the milestone events of building a strong space nation,” chief designer for the lunar mission, Wu Weiren, told China Central Television. STR/AFP/GETTY IMAGES The Xichang Satellite Launch Center The lunar craft lifted off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan province on December 8, entering the moon’s orbit four days later, according to state media.<doc-sep>
See the recovery efforts in Gaza as ceasefire appears to hold 'Is everything I'm trying to do pointless? ': Syrians helpless in face of 'sham' election Report: US companies may have benefited from forced labor of Uyghurs Residents stand near stalls along a road amidst debris while strong winds batter Balasore district in Odisha state on May 26, 2021 as Cyclone Yaas barrels towards India's eastern coast in the Bay of Bengal. (Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP) (Photo by DIBYANGSHU SARKAR/AFP via Getty Images) France's President Emmanuel Macron (L) and Rwanda's President Paul Kagame speak as they walk in the grounds of The Presidential Palace in Kigali on May 27, 2021, after their press conference and prior to their official luncheon. - French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Rwanda on May 27, 2021, for a highly symbolic visit aimed at moving on from three decades of diplomatic tensions over France's role in the 1994 genocide in the country. Macron is the first French leader since 2010 to visit the East African nation, which has long accused France of complicity in the killing of some 800,000 mostly Tutsi Rwandans. (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / AFP) (Photo by LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images) China lands on the far side of the moon In this image provided on Jan. 3, 2019, by China's Xinhua News Agency, a simulated landing process of Chang'e-4 lunar probe is seen through the monitor at Beijing Aerospace Control Center in Beijing. A Chinese spacecraft on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019, made the first-ever landing on the far side of the moon, state media said. (Jin Liwang/Xinhua News via AP) Explore humanity’s first moon landing through newly discovered and restored archival footage. CNN Films “Apollo 11” premieres Sunday, June 23 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. (CNN) — As you read this, a spindly-looking silver robot with a satellite dish for a head is exploring places never seen up close before by humans. Named after the pet rabbit belonging to the mythical Chinese lunar goddess Chang’e, the Yutu 2 rover is making history as it sends back images and other data from the far side of the moon. The rover touched down Thursday, delivered to the moon by the Chang’e 4 probe, a historical first for humankind – the far side of the moon has not previously been visited – and a major achievement for China’s increasingly impressive space program. Thursday’s landing is the first time humanity has landed anything on Earth’s natural satellite since 2013. Its success “opened a new chapter in humanity’s exploration of the moon,” China’s National Space Administration said in a statement. The front page of Friday’s China Daily, a state-run newspaper, featured a large photo of scientists at the Beijing Aerospace Control Center reacting to the touchdown, alongside one of the first images sent back by Chang’e 4 of the moon’s far side. Reacting on Twitter, NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine called it a “first for humanity and an impressive accomplishment!” China was late to the space race – it didn’t send its first satellite into orbit until 1970, by which time the US had already landed an astronaut on the moon – but it has been catching up fast. Since 2003, China has sent six crews into space and launched two space labs into Earth’s orbit. In 2013, it successfully landed a rover – Yutu 1 – on the moon, becoming only the third country to do so. While the reaction to Thursday’s landing in China – where economic concerns are becoming increasingly pressing amid an ongoing trade war with the US – was more limited than for the previous lunar mission, the success of Chang’e 4, and the global acclaim it has brought, will be a significant boost to the Chinese space program. That program will need all the support it can get in coming years as it attempts to realize ambitions that are, appropriately, stratospheric. 04:29 - Source: CNN China first in history to land rover on far side of the moon Speaking to astronauts aboard the Shenzhou 10 spacecraft by video link in 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping said “the space dream is part of the dream to make China stronger.” Dreams of space “The Chinese people will take bigger strides to explore further into the space,” he added.
NEW A vastly improved search engine helps you find the latest on companies, business leaders, and news more easily.<doc-sep>Back @ gate after waiting on tarmac for 2hrs. @JetBlue pilot says all departures at #jfk over water are halted due to #GovernmentShutdown pic.twitter.com/wVeb3lx2dP — Andrew Seng (@AndrewSeng_) January 25, 2019 @LGAairport We have been sitting on the tarmac for 50 mins because of staff shortages in air traffic control. Flight landed 45 mins early too! — Stacey Carey (@SACpromos) January 25, 2019 NEW YORK -- Hours before a deal to reopen the government was reached, passengers endured delays at LaGuardia, Newark and other airports due to air traffic controller staffing shortages caused by what the FAA described as "sick leave. "FAA says a small uptick in air traffic controllers calling out sick on Friday led to the problems.The FAA tells ABC News in a statement:"We have experienced a slight increase in sick leave at two air traffic control facilities affecting New York and Florida. As with severe storms, we will adjust operations to a safe rate to match available controller resources. We've mitigated the impact by augmenting staffing, rerouting traffic, and increasing spacing between aircraft as needed. The results have been minimal impacts to efficiency while maintaining consistent levels of safety in the national airspace system. The public can monitor air traffic at fly.faa.gov and they should check with airline carriers for more information. "LaGuardia Airport in New York and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey were both experiencing delays in takeoffs.Some passengers took to social media to report delays.Staffing shortages were reported at centers in Washington and Jacksonville, an FAA spokesperson tells ABC News.The most critical staffing shortage happened in Washington, which affects NY airspace in terms of incoming and outgoing flights.Of the 13 controllers scheduled to work in the DC area center, six called out on Friday, sources told ABC News.President Donald Trump was briefed on the situation, and hours later announced a deal to reopen the government for at least 3 weeks was reached.New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says delays at East Coast airports amid a partial federal government shutdown were another symptom of the "federal madness" caused by Republican President Donald Trump. "No one could make up the situation that we're in. And it gets worse every day. Today they issue a ground stop - they halt flights leaving LaGuardia Airport. Why do they do that? Because due to the federal shutdown, there are too few staff at the FAA in Washington to adequately control air traffic and they have to reduce flights coming from airports on the East Coast like LaGuardia due to the staffing shortage," Cuomo said.His comments came at an unrelated event in Manhattan Friday morning.----------<doc-sep>At least four major airports suffered flight delays Friday because of an increase in air traffic control employees calling in sick amid the government shutdown, which ended Friday afternoon after 35 days thanks to a short-term deal. The Federal Aviation Administration’s flight delay map had showed significant departure delays at Philadelphia and Newark, New Jersey, Friday morning. Lesser delays also showed at New York LaGuardia earlier in the day. By early afternoon, “staffing” delays had dissipated at Philadelphia but had popped up in Atlanta, the world’s busiest airport. The FAA listed “staffing” as the cause and had issued a “traffic management” initiative to slow down the rates of departures. Typically, that “metering” effort helps controllers space out planes to keep the pace of either arrivals or departures from exceeding their capacity. The FAA confirmed it had initiated procedures to adjust flights because of an increase in sick calls by controllers. “We have experienced a slight increase in sick leave at two facilities,” a spokesman for the FAA said in a statement to USA TODAY. “We’ve mitigated the impact by augmenting staffing, rerouting traffic, and increasing spacing between aircraft when needed. The results have been minimal impacts to efficiency while maintaining consistent levels of safety in the national airspace system. The public can monitor air traffic at fly.faa.gov and they should check with airline carriers for more information.” More:Amid shutdown, is it safe to fly? Airlines say yes, but worry about increasing delays More:Shutdown Day 35: Senate leaders negotiate as staffing shortages cause delays at major airports More:10 percent of TSA workers call in sick as government shutdown drags on At one point Friday morning, the FAA site had listed departure delays averaging more than an hour at both Newark and Philadelphia. The Philadelphia delays had dissipated later in the morning, according to the FAA site. Just before noon ET, LaGuardia remained a trouble spot, with delays on arriving flights averaging nearly 90 minutes. Atlanta's delays, which popped up after noon, were more than an hour. Delays persisted at Newark as of 12:55 p.m. ET, though the cause was no longer staffing but "wind," according to the FAA. Flyers could face sporadic delays at those airports, and possibly others, throughout the day. The delays were caused by an insufficient number of air traffic controllers in two regional facilities near Washington, D.C., and Jacksonville, Fla., according to the FAA’s Air Traffic Control System Command Center. Those facilities help coordinate the thousands of flights that fly through an area of the East Coast that stretches from Florida to Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The news of staffing issues comes two days after leaders of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, the union which represents the controllers, held a press conference on the steps of Capitol Hill arguing that the now-ended shutdown was harming the safety of air travel in the United States. Air traffic controllers have been working without pay since Dec. 22. They have received paychecks during that time, but each check read $0.00, said Bill Striffler, the union’s representative at Newark airport. “We have a growing concern for the safety and security of our members, our airlines and the traveling public due to the government shutdown,” the union said in a statement issued prior to the end of the shutdown. “In our risk averse industry, we cannot even calculate the level of risk currently at play, nor predict the point at which the entire system will break.” Press secretary Sarah Sanders said President Trump has been briefed on the airport delays. “The President has been briefed and we are monitoring the ongoing delays at some airports. We are in regular contact with officials at the Department of Transportation and the FAA.” The travel troubles come a day after a trio of airline CEOs sounded alarms that the shutdown had reached a tipping point. The CEOs of American, Southwest and JetBlue specifically warned about the potential for flights to be delayed because a shortage of air traffic controllers would require more spacing between flights. One major airline, Air Canada, issued a rebooking waiver for customers headed to Newark and LaGuardia because of “Air Traffic Control restrictions.” So far, none of the biggest U.S. airlines were waiving fees, though they said they were monitoring the situation. “We haven’t experienced significant impacts to our operation or schedule at this point, but continue to monitor and are working closely with the FAA," American Airlines spokesman Matt Miller said to USA TODAY before the shutdown-ending deal was announced. "Our goal is to minimize disruptions for our customers and our team members taking care of our customers. In this spirit, we urge that the federal government be re-opened before shutdown impacts begin to escalate.” JetBlue Airways passengers traveling Friday may experience delays or longer-than-normal flight times due to air traffic control staffing shortages, spokesman Philip Stewart said. Customers should check their flight status at jetblue.com or on the airline's mobile app, he said. Delta Air Lines said about 200 flights at LaGuardia and other airports in the Northeast were delayed Friday morning due to the FAA's ground delay program. "Delta is working to reaccomodate customers to their destinations and encourages customers traveling on Friday to check delta.com or the Fly Delta App for their current flight status,'' spokesman Drake Castañeda said. Labor officials also began to weigh in Friday on the staffing-related issues with controllers, saying that they had already sounded the alarm for potential harm to aviation from the shutdown. "This is exactly what AFA and other aviation unions have been warning would happen,” Sara Nelson, president of Association of Flight Attendants that represents about 50,000 attendants at numerous airlines, said in a statement. “The aviation system depends on the safety professionals who make it run,” she added. “They have been doing unbelievably heroic work even as they are betrayed by the government that employs them. They are fatigued, worried, and distracted – but they won't risk our safety. So the planes will stay on the ground. This is anything but a sick out - it is only about our safety and the air traffic controllers' absolute commitment to it.” Contributing: David Jackson and Dawn Gilbertson of USA TODAY and Christopher Maag of The Record of Bergen County, New Jersey.<doc-sep>
“The President has been briefed and we are monitoring the ongoing delays at some airports. We are in regular contact with officials at the Department of Transportation and the FAA.” - @PressSec — The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 25, 2019 EMBED >More News Videos Before 2018, the federal government experienced more than a dozen prior shutdowns and funding gaps. NEW YORK (KABC) -- Delays were reported at several airports, including LaGuardia, Newark, as well as airports in Philadelphia and Florida, due to air traffic controller staffing shortages due to the government shutdown The Federal Aviation Administration said the slowdown was due to staffing shortages in Washington and Jacksonville on Friday. This was before President Donald Trump announced that he would be signing legislation to temporarily end the shutdown until Feb. 15.An FAA spokesperson told ABC News that the most critical staffing shortage was the Washington shortage, which affects New York airspace in terms of in-going and out-going flights.The slowdown impacted flights paths nationally, specifically on the East Coast. Los Angeles International airport did not immediately see any widespread delays as a result.In response to FAA staffing shortages, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Sara Nelson released the following statement:Air traffic controllers, whose numbers were already at a 30-year low, have been working without pay for 35 days, because of the partial government shutdown. "We have experienced a slight increase in sick leave at two air traffic control facilities affecting New York and Florida. As with severe storms, we will adjust operations to a safe rate to match available controller resources," FAA spokesman Gregory Martin wrote ABC News in an email. "We've mitigated the impact by augmenting staffing, rerouting traffic, and increasing spacing between aircraft as needed. The results have been minimal impacts to efficiency while maintaining consistent levels of safety in the national airspace system. The public can monitor air traffic at fly.faa.gov and they should check with airline carriers for more information," Martin said.The staffing issue had travelers at LAX wondering about safety. "The fact that people who are supposed to be responsible for our safety on planes aren't getting paid is insane. It's ridiculous," said Kelsey Worth, who was traveling through LAX on Friday.Some insist the shutdown may be worth it if it increases border security. "I'm from San Diego, a border city, and a lot of people there agree with it. The Border Patrol agree with it, a lot of the residents agree with it," said David Esquivel, who was also traveling through LAX Friday.Meantime, the Transportation Security Administration said employees who worked during this pay period and making less than $90,000 will be paid for one week. That would cover all the screeners, if they worked. This action is aimed at paying the screeners and keep them on the job as the shutdown continues, TSA officials said.In addition, employees who were exempted and not furloughed making up to $90,000 will be paid. This means that more than 51,000 TSA screeners and employees will be paid for at least one week from the past month, if they worked the week of Dec. 23 - Jan. 5.At the security checkpoint, the shutdown may be taking a toll on moral. One sure sign of that is the absentee rate - normally it hovers around 3 percent. Last week, it jumped to close to 10 percent.Some airports have seen increased passenger security check times since the shutdown started.Also, some travelers know firsthand what the federal employees are dealing with. "My dad works for the government, and it's definitely impacting my family a lot," said Worth. "He's not getting paid, and I think it's, what really bothers me the most that I get so angry about is the fact that our congressmen are still paying themselves."
The most accomplished quarterback in Penn State history has a home in the NFL. The Baltimore Ravens selected Trace McSorley with Pick 197 in Round 6 of the 2019 NFL Draft. A three-time All-Big Ten selection, McSorley started 40 consecutive Penn State games, becoming the program's all-time leader in total yards, touchdowns accounted for, and victories for a starting quarterback. He is one of 11 Big Ten players who've surpassed 11,000 total yards and one of only three who've accounted for 100-plus touchdowns, along with J.T. Barrett (Ohio State) and Drew Brees (Purdue). "If you're coming up with a list of characteristics or attributes or things that you were looking for to determine a guy's career, he's got most of the boxes checked," Penn State coach James Franklin said late in McSorley's senior season. McSorley, who finished 31-9 as a Penn State starter with wins in the 2016 Big Ten Championship and 2017 Fiesta Bowl, joins an interesting Baltimore quarterback room. The Ravens spent a first-round pick on scintillating dual-threat talent Lamar Jackson last year, though his vulnerability to hits as a runner make legitimate positional depth a necessity. Baltimore dumped former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco in a trade to Denver, leaving Robert Griffin III as the only other roster option. Despite his immense success at the college level, McSorley was not part of the discussion as draft analysts dissected the top tier of this quarterback class. There were 10 other players at the position selected ahead of him. “My career as a player isn’t over," McSorley said after his final college game, a Citrus Bowl loss to Kentucky. "... I was confident that I could play in college when I got to this level, and a lot of people didn’t think that I could. And I’m extremely confident that I can go out and perform at the next level. That’s something I’ve always dreamt of doing, and that’s something I plan on accomplishing.” McSorley suffered a foot injury in the Citrus Bowl. Penn State initially informed media members it was broken and he was absent to start the second half before returning to play through significant pain, leading three consecutive fourth-quarter scoring drives that nearly rallied the Nittany Lions out of a late 20-point deficit. "He's a guy who hates to lose, loves to win, and was willing to do anything for this team," Penn State safety Garret Taylor said afterward. "… Trace wasn’t gonna let anything get between him and a W for this program. The ultimate competitor, the ultimate teammate, and definitely a guy you strive to be like." McSorley wore a walking boot afterward while awaiting clarity from the Penn State medical staff. Eventually, he revealed things weren't as severe as initially feared before participating at the Senior Bowl three weeks later. “Not a big quarterback but a tough guy," Senior Bowl coach Jon Gruden said in his assessment of McSorley. "Got a lot of Rich Gannon, Jeff Garcia in him. Bulldog, fighter type quarterback." McSorley measured in at 6-foot, 202 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he clocked a 4.57-second 40-yard dash. He now aims to prove he can compete — and prosper — as a quarterback at the next level. During the draft process, speculation surfaced that some organizations could be interested in seeing what he can do elsewhere on the field. His history at the safety position is well documented, as that's where several college programs anticipated he would play coming out of high school. "I'm an athletic guy," McSorley last month said at Penn State Pro Day. "I can do a lot of different things. I can fill a lot of different roles for teams. ... Athletically, I probably could go out and do that kind of stuff, but I just focus so much on quarterback. ... I haven't done any backpedaling (at defensive back) in like five and a half years." After completing a career-best 66.5 percent of pass attempts in 2017, McSorley's completion percentage plummeted to 53.2 percent as a senior, when he threw for 2,530 yards, 18 touchdowns and seven interceptions. During each of the previous two seasons, McSorley surpassed 3,500 passing yards and totaled 57 scores through the air. He delivered his most productive campaign as a runner in 2018, rushing for 798 yards (4.7 per carry) and 12 touchdowns. Last October, McSorley set a Penn State record with 461 total yards during a one-point loss to sixth-ranked Ohio State. An Ashburn, Va., native who previously led Briar Woods High School to four state championship games, McSorley initially committed to Franklin at Vanderbilt before following the coach to Happy Valley in 2014 as a member of Franklin's first Nittany Lions recruiting class. "I don't think one game is going to define Trace McSorley," Franklin said when asked about the QB's legacy at Penn State. "It's the whole package. It's the running, it's the passing, it's the leadership, it's the toughness, it's the academics, it's the community service. It's all of it."<doc-sep>Say it with me, Penn State: Trace McSorley is an NFL quarterback. The Baltimore Ravens selected McSorley in the sixth round (No. 197 overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft. Baltimore’s decision to snag McSorley with its final pick of the draft was the culmination of the quarterback’s three-year term at the helm of Penn State’s offense, and it certainly quieted any doubters who thought he’d go undrafted. Plenty of McSorley’s former teammates, coaches, and Penn State fans used Twitter to express their excitement and congratulate McSorley. Tears bro…let’s go my brotha! They getting a cold hearted winner ??? https://t.co/PMLRvSPFFl — Grant Haley (@haleyboy10) April 27, 2019 Couldn’t happened to a better person @McSorley_IX the Ravens are getting the best leader and competitor I have ever been around. https://t.co/snuHDhzHo9 — JaJuan Seider (@coachseider) April 27, 2019 Ravens got a DAWG, period @McSorley_IX — Jayson Oweh (@JaysonOweh) April 27, 2019 Even McSorley’s opposition offered their congratulations on Twitter, including former Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins and Michigan offensive coordinator Josh Gattis, who served as Penn State’s wide receivers coach from 2014-2017. Leader, Winner, Great Teammate, Hard Worker ….. whatever you name he is! Congrats @McSorley_IX keep believing in you! Excited to see you in that Ravens offense! — Josh Gattis (@Coach_Gattis) April 27, 2019 Something tells me there will be a significant increase in Baltimore Ravens gear in and around State College in the next year. That said, Pittsburgh Steelers fans may not approve. hello from an airplane somewhere above pennsylvania. trace mcsorley forever, go ravens. — Bill DiFilippo (@billdifilippo) April 27, 2019 TRACE MCSORLEY IS A RAVEN! Let me know when you get your number and i will buy your jersey!!! @McSorley_IX!!! #HesAWizard #HesARaven! https://t.co/mJad8NcJh3 — Christopher Houck (@MrHouckMath) April 27, 2019 The winner gets to continue in Baltimore!! Congrats @McSorley_IX ! — Brendan Quireyns (@bquireyns08) April 27, 2019 Congratulations @McSorley_IX ! We are….so proud of you! — Marilyn Ayre (@mareayre) April 27, 2019 Congrats on the draft pick to Wings over’s #1 customer?? @McSorley_IX pic.twitter.com/JHPKrmu2bA — Glennyboy (@GlennGrasha21) April 27, 2019 i mean, i wish it wasn’t the steelers’ division rivals, but homeboy, you deserve this. we’re all so proud of you — emily maingi (@EmilyMaingi) April 27, 2019 Biggggg Ravens fan ? Congrats my brotha @McSorley_IX https://t.co/5kmGVRKboB — Mike Barta (@mbarta3) April 27, 2019 @McSorley_IX Congrats. Show everyone what they missed — Skellz (@skellz74) April 27, 2019 Ravens fans will hope to see plenty of home run celebrations from McSorley in the future.<doc-sep>
OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens drafted their No. 3 quarterback and perhaps the next Taysom Hill. The Ravens used their final pick of the 2019 draft on Penn State's Trace McSorley, selecting the dual-threat quarterback in the sixth round Saturday. While Baltimore sees McSorley as a quarterback first, the Nittany Lions' all-time leading passer might have to play different roles, as Hill did last season for the New Orleans Saints. "You saw what the Saints have done down there with their third quarterback," Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. "That's something we'll have a chance to do, too, with Trace. He's going to be able to play special teams as well. The more you can do. You want players with roles, and he's a guy that has a chance to have a big role for us." Last season, Hill proved to be the NFL's most versatile weapon. He lined up as a read-option quarterback, running back, receiver, tight end, kickoff returner and special-teams coverage specialist. McSorley, who was the fastest quarterback at the NFL scouting combine, might have to excel in a do-it-all role to make the Ravens' 53-man roster behind signal-callers Lamar Jackson and Robert Griffin III. Baltimore has carried three quarterbacks in the regular season only once in the past nine seasons. "My main thing is I feel I can be a quarterback, and that's my goal coming in is to compete and play the quarterback position," McSorley said during a conference call. "But I also know I can do some other things given the opportunity. I'm ready to go in and do anything the coaches ask me to do. I know I can do a lot of different things on the football field to make a team successful." McSorley finished as the career record-holder at Penn State for wins (31), completions (720), passing yards (9,899), touchdown passes (77) as well as rushing yards (1,697) and rushing touchdowns (30) by a quarterback. His style should mesh with the offense the Ravens are building around Jackson. But there has been skepticism whether McSorley can play quarterback in the NFL because of his lack of size (6 feet) and inconsistency throwing the ball (59.2 percent for his college career). Some teams were interested in seeing if McSorley could play safety, which is what he played in high school. McSorley declined to work out as a defensive back at the combine because he wanted to concentrate on playing quarterback. Asked what his reaction would be if the Ravens asked him to play special teams, McSorley said, "The focus [of his talks with the Ravens] was at quarterback, and at the quarterback position is what they feel I can do. If I'm in a backup role, being one of those guys that can maybe do a couple other things ... those are the things that I can be able to come in and provide help and provide support for the organization." The Ravens brought in McSorley for their local pro day and were impressed with his workout. He threw the ball well in the pocket and on the move, showing a live arm. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta called him the team's "sleeper pick." "We fell in love with the kid," DeCosta said of the 197th overall selection. "We brought him in as a quarterback but we think his skill set really does fit what we're trying to accomplish on offense. And he's got potential to do some other things, too."
Verizon is going to release an app that an block robocalls. It is expected to be available for download very soon. It will be a free version of Verizon's current call-filtering app.<doc-sep>The Michigan State Dive Team has recovered the body of Aaron Christopher Pittman below the Zilwaukee Bridge in the Saginaw River according to the Saginaw Township Police Department. Pittman was considered armed and dangerous and a suspect in the homicide that happened on May 18 at Camelot Apartments.<doc-sep>Verizon is taking new steps to combat the unrelenting nuisance of spam calls. Well, maybe not new, but you won’t have to pay extra money to tell when the robots are calling anymore. The leading US carrier has rolled out its free call filter service to both Android and iOS customers. When activated, Verizon says the filter will let customers “get alerts when a call is likely spam, report unsolicited numbers, and automatically block robocalls based on their preferred level of risk.” The company notes that “certain features will vary based on the type of phone that a customer has.” But everyone gets the core protection, as this comparison between the Galaxy S10E and iPhone XS Max shows: Unfortunately, Call Filter Free is completely unavailable to Verizon’s prepaid customers and is reserved for postpaid accounts only. A free layer of defense against spam is something that Verizon’s millions of customers have lacked until now, despite T-Mobile and other carriers already offering it. Until now, Call Filter was only available for an extra charge. That premium option actually still exists. According to Verizon, this is what paying an extra $2.99 per month on top of your phone bill will get you: This enhanced product includes all of the great features included in the free version (spam detection, blocking and reporting), plus the ability to identify unknown callers by name. There’s also more control over calls with the ability to create a personal robocall block list, access to additional insights with the robocall risk meter and a spam number lookup feature. To activate Call Filter, you can install Verizon’s dedicated app for it — here for Android and here for iOS — or just enable the protection as an account add-on in your My Verizon app or the company’s website. There’s also a guide for using Call Filter. The FCC has openly warned all major US carriers that it will take action if they fail to make satisfactory progress in thwarting spam calls this year — or at least significantly curtail the volume down from the several-a-day annoyance they’ve become for so many of us. To that end, Verizon says it has successfully completed calls using the STIR/SHAKEN call authentication technology that the industry is beginning to adopt. Before your phone even rings, STIR/SHAKEN verifies that a call is actually coming from the number it’s posing as. The system is designed to prevent spammers from spoofing your local area code to make it seem like a call might be legitimate. We all hang up as soon as we hear the robot voice threatening us on behalf of the IRS or saying our iCloud has been hacked, but those instances are still seconds wasted and an unwanted distraction. Some of Verizon’s competitors are making faster progress with STIR/SHAKEN. T-Mobile has already deployed it live on its network (albeit on less than a handful of devices), and AT&T and Comcast have reached the first deal to authenticate calls between two different providers using the tech. STIR/SHAKEN will eventually need to work across all of the major US mobile carriers if we’re ever going to find peace again. FCC chairman Ajit Pai has said “uniform adoption will help improve authentication throughout the network and make sure no consumer gets left behind.” The commission has threatened “regulatory intervention” if carriers are too slow to get there.<doc-sep>
'Whoever Is Watching This, They're Going To Get A Thrill': Willy T. Ribbs, Paul Tracy, Ernie Francis Jr. Discuss Superstar Racing ExperienceThe Superstar Racing Experience inaugural season begins on June 12 at Stafford Speedway. 'Rugrats' Voice Actors E.G. Daily And Cheryl Chase Call New Animation Style 'Brilliant': 'Every Time They Would Show Us We Would Just Gasp''In the words of Chuckie Finster, "Looks like a giant step to me" as the 90's classic Rugrats returns with all-new episodes and a slick modern animation style on Paramount+. WATCH: Caroline D'Amore Discusses 'Surreal' MTV's 'The Hills: New Beginnings' Experience & Pizza Girl BusinessThe Los Angeles native discusses what it was like to join the cast of "The Hills: New Beginnings" and her new line of sauce. SEC Football: CBS Sports Announces 2021 Schedule Including Alabama At Florida On September 18The SEC on CBS kicks off on September 18 with an SEC Championship game rematch between the Crimson Tide and Gators. Mayweather Vs. Paul: Showtime Sports Announces Broadcast Team For June 6 EventThe network announced its plans for the broadcast of the pay-per-view exhibition bout between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Logan Paul. The 74th Annual 'Tony Awards' And 'The Tony Awards Present: Broadway's Back!' Come To CBS September 26thCBS and Tony Award Productions will celebrate Broadway’s highly anticipated return to live theatre with a multiplatform event The Tony Awards Present: Broadway's Back! Sunday, September 26th (9:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT) broadcasting on CBS and available to stream live and on demand with Paramount+ or the CBS app.
UPDATED: July 26, 2018 at 5:56 p.m. EST McDonald's returned our request for comment. Brent Bohn, a McDonald's owner and operator wrote in an email, "We do not condone the behavior depicted in this video, and are currently investigating." ORIGINAL POST: July 26, 2018 at 3:20 p.m EST A video posted on Facebook and Instagram shows a disturbing physical fight between a McDonald's employee and a customer. Another customer took the video and wrote on Instagram, "The lady asked for a water cup and supervisor shut down the soda machine because she wasn't letting her get a free soda." The two Instagram videos have since been deleted, but the second one showed the exchange before the fight. The customer is sitting and yelling over at the employee, who is behind the counter. Both are shouting at each other, and then the customer throws a french fry in the employee's direction. The first clip posted shows the employee coming out from behind the counter and approaching the customer, who then throws what appears to be a milkshake in the employee's direction. When she gets close enough, the customer hits her in the face with her tray, and it really escalates from there. YouTube.com / The Sun The employee begins punching the customer repeatedly, holding her down against the countertop. Then, she yanks her and throws her into a booth. Another employee steps in at that point, and tries to drag the customer away to break up the fight. This backfires though, when the customer begins fighting that employee. Then, the second employee begins hitting the woman and soon both employees are hitting her. YouTube.com / The Sun YouTube.com / The Sun The second employee is dragged away from someone else, and the first employee yanks the customer by her hair onto a table nearby. She shoves her and begins to walk away, when the customer picks up a chair and walks toward the employee. The video ends with the employee walking away and the woman returning to her seat. YouTube.com / The Sun The whole thing is quite unbelievable — luckily it didn't seem like anyone was seriously hurt at the end, though. Delish has reached out to McDonald's for comment, and we'll update the story accordingly. Con Poulos indigo.ca Maya McDowell Maya McDowell is an Assistant Editor at HearstMade. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>Community Corner Vicious Brawl Breaks Out At McDonald's Over A Soda: Watch When a McDonald's customer tried to fill a water cup with soda, fists, tempers and words flew. Reply To be clear, we're not recommending that anyone try to pilfer a soda at a fast-food restaurant, or anywhere. You pay for what you drink. That's the rule of law. All we're saying is that random acts of petty theft, like one that recently occurred at a McDonald's restaurant and resulted in a vicious brawl, were settled without the whole world knowing about it in the days before everyone had a video camera in their hand. What Marie Dayag captured on video at a McDonald's restaurant demonstrates that clearly. People can't seem to get enough of almost everyone involved behaving badly. The video starts after a woman asked for a cup for water, which is free. When she tried to sneak soda into the empty cup, a worker shut down the soda machine. Problem solved, right? No, not even close. All hell broke loose. The video, which Dayag originally posted on Facebook and then on YouTube after Facebook took it down, begins when the fight was already in progress. It shows the customer throwing what appears to be a milkshake at the McDonald's worker. Fists started flying. The worker started punching the customer and threw her face-forward into a counter. She put up a fight, but the worker tossed her into a booth. Another customer tried to defuse the situation as another McDonald's worker forcefully walked the woman away from the situation. (Get Across America Patch's daily newsletter and real-time news alerts. Or, find your local Patch here and subscribe. Like us on Facebook. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app.) But the customer, the one who had tried to get the free soda, didn't go quietly and the situation continued to fall apart. She started throwing elbows at the employee, who retaliated with a sharp slap and grabbed her by the hair. The first employee got involved again, pulling the woman's hair and shoving her backward into a table. "My momma ain't dead, you respect my momma," the employee shouted as the woman walked away. But the brawl wasn't over yet. The customer charged back, a chair in hand and appeared to be ready to hurl it at the worker when she took it away.<doc-sep>McDonald’s Fight (I RECORDED THIS VIDEO)“This video is exclusively licensed by UNILAD. For all licensing enquiries, please contact [email protected]” So this happened at McDonald’s… the lady asked for a water cup and supervisor shut down the soda machine because she wasn’t letting her get a free soda. I’ll make a new video about the whole story tomorrow. Make sure you… 2018-07-27T00:27:05.000Z A McDonald’s employee was caught on camera brutally beating a customer after a fight broke out over a free soda. Nevada resident Marie Dayag filmed the confrontation and uploaded it to Instagram. According to Dayag, a customer, who has been identified as Sabrinah Fontelar, asked for a water cup and then allegedly tried to fill it with soda. The McDonald’s supervisor, Erika Chavolla, turned off the soda machine to prevent the woman from filling her water cup with a soft drink, which angered Fontelar. In the original footage, the Fontelar can be seen yelling “fight me,” and throwing a french fry at Chavolla shortly before the fight broke out. Chavolla steps out from behind the counter and Fontelar throws a milkshake at her and hits her in the face with a food tray right, sparking the chaos that followed. Chavolla then grabs Fontelar and starts punching her repeatedly in the face while another employee tries to break up the fight. Chavolla violently swings the woman across a table and continues to pummel her before the second employee tries to intervene. However, the second employee takes an elbow to the face by Fontelar in the process, gives up trying to restrain her, and throws a few punches herself. Chavolla takes back over, throws Fontelar on the table again and starts shouting “you talk about my mom b–ch, my mama ain’t dead, you respect my mama.” Chavolla then starts to walk away before Fontelar comes after her again, this time brandishing a chair. Chavolla takes the chair, sets it back on the floor and walks away. Video of the argument that led to the confrontation was shared by the Daily Mail Friday afternoon. In the new footage, Fontelar can be heard swearing at Chavolla as she works, before throwing a French fry at the counter. The video, obtained by the Daily Mail, shows Fontelar calling Chavolla a “b–ch,” a “fat ass,” and repeatedly telling her to “fight me. The McDonald’s location at which the fight occurred was not reported, but one report suggested the incident took place at a Las Vegas restaurant. Several users on Twitter backed Chavolla, asking McDonald’s to not fire her and claiming it was clear from the video that the customer started the confrontation. Some even told McDonald’s to give her a raise. Donta Morrison wrote: “I truly hope this worker doesn’t lose her job behind this ignorant ‘wanna be entitled at McDonald’s’ chick.” I don’t normally share fight videos. Nor do I condone violence, BUT let this be a lesson to those who start stuff they can’t finish. I truly hope this worker doesn’t lose her job behind this ignorant ‘wanna be entitled at McDonalds’ chick. https://t.co/fxQuiHzROE — Donta Morrison (@TheDontaShow) July 26, 2018 “Are you f*cking kidding me? She stated the fight, what were the employees supposed to do? It was self defense from a horrible and entitle customer. Don’t start fights you can’t finish, and the customer is not always right!” Might Boy wrote. Another Twitter user wrote: “If corporate fires the employee over the fight with the rude customer, that is very wrong on your part. They were defending themselves and the company. They should be rewarded for their actions. DO NOT FIRE OR ARREST THESE EMPLOYEES! !” @McDonalds if corporate fires the employees over the fight with the rude customer, that is very wrong on your part. They were defending themselves and the company. They should be rewarded for their actions. DO NOT FIRE OR ARREST THESE EMPLOYEES!!!! — J ! M (@jt_andrews) July 26, 2018 @McDonalds can the woman in the white shirt who got in the fight pleaseeeee be employee of the year? #mcdonalds #fight #whatwouldwendysdo — Ryan (@davidryanmartin) July 26, 2018 Others weren’t so impressed by the employee’s actions, stating she should be ashamed of herself, and fired immediately because a soda isn’t worth that kind of reaction. SalemBlueCruz wrote: “those behemoths better be fired and I hope that girl sues too! All this over soda?! ?” .10 cent cup of soda, yep good reason for a fight. Probably first time in history of McDonalds this has happened .? #fireher — Jim Mona (@scienceinvestme) July 26, 2018 Someone should SUE and somebodies should be FIRED! Soda in a water cup is not the serious!!! I’m for sure TAG-TEAM BEATDOWNS by employees are against @McDonaldsCorp @McDonalds!!! Imagine a little kids seeing this!SMDH!!! https://t.co/jmNVIzQ71T — Marie St. Lucie (@MarieStLucie1) July 26, 2018 Other Twitter users did what the internet does best and churned out memes and McDonald’s puns. “Did yall see that fight at McDonalds? I know [BurgerKing] was watching closely because that lady was throwing some whoppers,” Nick Russo wrote. “Don’t think the one girl is ‘lovin’ it,'” another user posted. Did yall see that fight at McDonalds? I know @BurgerKing was watching closely because that lady was throwing some whoppers. — Nick Russo (@Kingnickrusso) July 26, 2018<doc-sep>
Two McDonald's employees physically fought a customer on Wednesday night after she allegedly tried to fill a free water cup with soda—which customers must pay for—from the soda machine. Marie Dayag shared a video of the incident on Facebook and explained that she was at McDonald's when the customer, dressed in grey shorts and a black shirt, asked for a water cup. When she began filling it with soda, the restaurant's supervisor allegedly shut the machine down. Dayag's video begins while the argument is already in progress, and shows the customer throwing what appears to be a milkshake at the employee, who is dressed in a white shirt and black pants. The employee approached the customer, clearly irate, and began punching her. Seconds later, the employee hurled the woman face-forward into a table. Another employee, dressed in a blue shirt, intervened and grabbed the customer. A man in a dark blue shirt also got up and attempted to intervene between the customer and the employee. Then, as one employee walked the woman away, apparently attempting to defuse the situation, the woman elbowed her in the face. The employee then retaliated by slapping and punching the woman, and grabbing her by the hair. Later, the employee in the white shirt grabbed the customer by the hair and threw her backwards into a table. "My momma ain't dead, you respect my momma," the employee shouted. The customer then picked up a chair, as if to throw it at the employee in the white shirt. The employee grabbed the chair from her and the video ends with someone saying, "Don't try me." It's unclear which McDonald's the altercation occurred in. But according to Dayag's Facebook page, she lives in Las Vegas. "We do not condone the behavior depicted in this video and are currently investigating," Brent Bohn, McDonald's owner and operator, told Newsweek in a statement. The video had been viewed over 180,000 times and shared over 5,000 times by Thursday at 3:00 p.m. ET, only 12 hours after it was posted. This article has been updated to include response from McDonald's.
Follow CBSPHILLY Facebook | Twitter BURLINGTON CITY, N.J. (CBS/AP) — The man accused of taking money from a GoFundMe account set up for a homeless veteran was arrested on a traffic warrant. Officials say Mark D’Amico was arrested Monday night for an outstanding traffic warrant out of Burlington City. Police say the warrant stemmed from a motor vehicle stop that occurred last October, when D’Amico was pulled over for a broken tail lamp. During the stop, he was detained for potential outstanding warrants, for which he had the proper documentation and was released on scene. He posted his $500 bail after being held at the Burlington County Detention Center. He is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 18. D’Amico and his girlfriend, Katelyn McClure, are at the center of controversy over $400,000 raised through a GoFundMe account for homeless veteran Johnny Bobbitt. Bobbitt’s attorney claims the couple withheld most of that money. GoFundMe says Bobbitt will receive the money he is owed. The couple’s lawyer, Ernest Badway, says the two are likely to be indicted. The attorney said in a letter dated Thursday that one or both could be indicted by the Burlington County prosecutor and that he and his firm would no longer represent the couple in the lawsuit involving Bobbitt. Badway petitioned Superior Court Judge Paula Dow to pause the civil case in a letter Thursday, the same day authorities raided the couple’s home. Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina last week confirmed the criminal investigation into the couple, citing the “enormous” public interest in the case, though no charges have been brought. D’Amico and McClure have earlier denied wrongdoing or misusing the cash, which was raised on GoFundMe from 14,000 contributors. Bobbitt sued the couple over mismanagement of the funds, and Dow had ordered sworn statements to determine what happened to the cash, which attorneys say is all gone. The formerly feel-good story has turned dismal, with Bobbitt saying the couple used the funds as “personal piggy bank” to bankroll a lifestyle they couldn’t afford. Last week, investigators seized a BMW and other items from the couple’s Florence, New Jersey, property. Badway said in his letter that all the couple’s personal and business financial statements, along with jewelry and cash were seized in the official raid last week. The story goes back to 2017 when Bobbitt used $20 to help a stranded McClure get gas when her car ran out on Interstate 95 in Philadelphia. As a way to help repay his kindness, McClure and D’Amico launched a GoFundMe page that brought in just over $400,000 in contributions. The account, at first, led to appearances for Bobbitt and McClure on national TV programs, but turned into a dispute over the money. D’Amico has said Bobbitt spent $25,000 in less than two weeks last year on drugs as well as paying for overdue legal bills and sending money to family. Bobbitt’s attorney said last week Bobbitt was entering a residential program for drug treatment. The couple also bought Bobbitt a camper with some of the cash and parked it on land McClure’s family owns in New Jersey. But Bobbitt became homeless again after D’Amico told him in June he had to leave. (© Copyright 2018 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)<doc-sep>EMBED >More News Videos Police search home of GoFundMe couple in New Jersey. Katherine Scott reports during Action News at Noon on September 6, 2018. EMBED >More News Videos Investigators execute a search warrant at the home of the NJ couple accused of defrauding a homeless man. Katherine Scott reports from the scene on September 6, 2018. EMBED >More News Videos Judge Paula Dow orders couple to appear in court over a GoFundMe account that raised $400,000 for a homeless man. Watch this video from September 5, 2018. EMBED >More News Videos Judge orders couple behind GoFundMe account for homeless man to appear in court. Chad Pradelli reports during Action News at 4pm on September 5, 2018. EMBED >More News Videos Bobbitt claims he only received a small portion of the money raised. Chad Pradelli reports during Action News at 11 on August 30, 2018. From Action News reporter @chadpradelli: According to court filings in the John Bobbitt case, Mark D’Amico sent this text message to Bobbitt right after appearing on a national talk show. Here are more of today's developments: https://t.co/vA7J9jTXhT pic.twitter.com/Y6TJS572Kn — Action News on 6abc (@6abc) September 6, 2018 EMBED >More News Videos All GoFundMe money is gone, attorney for homeless man says. Chad Pradelli reports during Action News at 4:30pm on September 4, 2018. BORDENTOWN, N.J. -- Authorities have executed a search warrant at the Bordentown, New Jersey home of a couple who raised $400,000 through GoFundMe for a homeless Philadelphia man who now claims they mismanaged the cash.Investigators could be seen searching a BMW in the driveway of the Burlington County home of Kate McClure and Mark D'Amico. The vehicle was then loaded onto a truck outside the home and hauled away.Police and other investigators could be seen elsewhere on the property. "Due to the enormous public interest in this matter, I am confirming that a search warrant was executed early this morning by the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office and the Florence Township Police Department at the residence of Mark D'Amico and Katelyn McClure in connection with a criminal investigation into the Johnny Bobbitt matter," Burlington County Prosecutor Scott A. Coffina said in a statement. "As of this time, there have been no charges filed. Further updates will be provided as circumstances warrant," Coffina said.D'Amico was also at the home. He was swinging a golf club and playing fetch with a dog. A short time later, McClure got into a car and left the home, but she did not answer reporters' questions.The couple is being sued by the homeless man, John Bobbitt.McClure and D'Amico started a GoFundMe account to help Bobbitt, who spent his last $20 to help McClure after she ran out of gas on I-95 last year.At a court hearing on Wednesday, the lawyer for McClure and D'Amico, Ernest Badway, tried to assert his clients' fifth amendment right against self-incrimination.The couple was not present. Judge Paula Dow ordered McClure and D'Amico appear in court next week. Dow told Badway that she had a number of questions about the case and wanted to see the defendants herself.The couple also must give depositions about the money that was raised for Bobbitt.The judge also ordered the attorneys for both the couple and Bobbitt to get their paperwork in order, and figure out the money trail to see who spent what on both sides.The total amount raised would have been $360,000 after GoFundMe's fees.The couple claimed through their attorney they gave Bobbitt $200,000. Bobbitt pinned the figure at $75,000 in cash, goods, and services.Bobbitt's lawyer says he's been told all the money is gone. It's unclear what happened to it. McClure and D'Amico have denied wrongdoing.On a nationally broadcast talk show last Monday, D'Amico said there was $150,000 remaining. Court records reveal that D'Amico allegedly texted Bobbitt after the broadcast and wrote, in part, "Yo, I say I get rid of my team of lawyers, you get rid of yours, and Kate and I write you a check. Seriously. "The text went on to say, "They're gonna put it in a trust man. You're gonna end up with nothing. "Action News began following McClure and D'Amico's spending habits online beginning late last year, after receiving an anonymous tip they were allegedly spending the GoFundMe money.In just a few months, McClure posted pictures and videos of a New Year's Eve Bash in Las Vegas, helicopter rides, trips to New York with front row tickets to a Broadway show, and shopping excursions.How they paid for the items and trips is unclear. McClure is an administrative assistant with the state of New Jersey who makes $43,000 per year. D'Amico is a carpenter.The couple has previously denied spending any of the GoFundMe money on themselves.<doc-sep>
Police on Thursday morning descended on the home of a New Jersey couple accused of pilfering from an online fundraiser they launched that raised more than $400,000 to help a homeless veteran. A search warrant was executed at the Florence Township home of Katelyn McClure and her boyfriend, Mark D'Amico, in connection with a criminal investigation, confirmed Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina. He added that no charges were filed but "further updates will be provided as circumstances warrant." It was unclear what law enforcement agents were seeking. A local ABC reporter tweeted that a BMW belonging to the couple was seized. Last month, homeless veteran Johnny Bobbitt Jr. told The Philadelphia Inquirer that McClure, who works for the New Jersey Department of Transportation, and D'Amico, a carpenter, spent the money meant for him on a new BMW and lavish getaways to California, Florida, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Execution of the search warrant comes a day after a judge ordered McClure, 28, and D'Amico, 39, to appear in depositions next week and describe what happened to the funds from the GoFundMe account they started last November for Bobbitt. The judge said that what happened to some of the funds "lacks clarity" and that she needed to hear from the couple themselves. Chris Fallon, an attorney representing Bobbitt, told NBC Philadelphia this week that he was "shocked" and "appalled" to learn during a call with the couple's attorneys that the more-than $402,000 they raised was completely gone. Ernest Badway, their attorney, declined to comment about how much actually remains, or about Thursday's search warrant. The initially touching tale drew national attention last fall when Bobbitt gave McClure his last $20 after she ran out of gas on a freeway ramp outside of Philadelphia. To pay it forward, McClure and D'Amico later started the online fundraiser for Bobbitt, drawing donations from more than 14,000 people. But it turned into a legal dispute in late August when attorneys for Bobbitt filed a lawsuit to try to force the couple to turn over the remaining money that he said he had never received. The couple said on NBC's "Megyn Kelly Today" last week that they did not use any of the money that was raised, but believed there could be as little as $150,000 left after they claimed Bobbitt spent the funds on family, a trailer and truck, and drugs. They added that while they had set up an account for Bobbitt and he had access to the funds, the account didn't include all of the money because they feared he would spend it on drugs. They said Bobbitt had already gone through about $25,000 in 13 days. Badway previously said in court that Bobbitt received at least $200,000 of the funds, The Inquirer reported. But in court documents filed by Bobbitt's attorneys, the couple was accused of using "substantial portions of the money raised for their own personal use.” The judge who ordered them to turn over the remainder of the money said the couple must give those funds to their defense lawyer, who must then put it into an escrow account as the case continues, NBC Philadelphia reported. The judge also ordered McClure and D'Amico to provide a full accounting of the money. In a statement, GoFundMe said that it was working with law enforcement to ensure Bobbitt receives all of the funds that were raised for him and that it has given $20,000 to a bank account created by Bobbitt's legal team.
Jonathan White + FOLLOW Jonathan White joined the Post in 2017 after a decade reporting on sport from China. He originally moved to Beijing to coach football in 2007 and later spent two years in Shanghai.<doc-sep>Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho gave a sharp two-word response to journalists after Tottenham knocked the Premier League champions out of Europe. City fell to a defeat on away goals in the quarterfinal tie with Spurs after the scoreline finished 4-4 on aggregate after two legs, with a thrilling game at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night ending in heartbreak for the home side. Pep Guardiola’s men took the lead in the fourth minute on the night thanks to Raheem Sterling, but a quickfire Son Heung-min double turned the game on its head shortly after. Bernardo Silva then equalised one minute later before Sterling struck again to give City a 3-2 lead after just 21 minutes, which is how the scoreline stayed until just after the interval when Sergio Aguero fired home a fourth. Then came the controversy. Spurs substitute Fernando Llorente made it 4-3 in the 73rd minute after diverting the ball into the net via his thigh and a brush of the arm, but only after a VAR review judged that he had not handled the ball intentionally. City then relentlessly pursued the goal they needed to progress to the semi-finals and they thought they’d got it in stoppage time when Sterling netted for his hat-trick – only to be denied by VAR who correctly ruled that he had been in an offside position. According to The Daily Mirror, Fernandinho said “F*** VAR” in response to reporters asking him for comment in the mixed zone after the game, clearly shaken by the dramatic events which had unfolded in Manchester. The Brazilian’s uncharacteristic foul-mouthed outburst perfectly summed up how the squad must have been feeling, after coming so close to an incredible victory which was snatched away in cruel fashion. When Sterling fired home what City thought was the winning goal, the home stadium erupted and Guardiola ran down the touchline in delight, completely oblivious to the discussions taking place between officials. After the dust settled, the English champions were out of the Champions League and Tottenham had earned a place in the last four against Ajax – with City’s quadruple hopes up in flames.<doc-sep>Sign up to FREE email alerts from Football London - Spurs Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City played out a Champions League classic at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening, which will live long in the memory. Five first-half goals over the course of just 21 minutes were smashed home, before Sergio Aguero put the hosts 4-3 ahead on aggregate when he smashed home in the second half. But with City looking to continue their push towards an unprecedented quadruple, Tottenham threw a spanner in the works through Fernando Llorente as he bundled home from a corner. The City players were unhappy with the goal though, appealing for handball, and there was a dramatic pause as the Video Assistant Referee called the official over to the sideline to have a look. After seeing the incident for a second time, the referee awarded the goal and former Premier League official Peter Walton explained why the decision was given. “I don’t think that’s a handball. The ball has come over and you can clearly see, yes it’s come over, but it’s hit his knee," he said, speaking on BT Sport. “What I’m seeing is what I’ve seen first time, it’s come in and it’s hit his knee. If it hit his arm, I can see the referee disallowing the goal.” The goal put Spurs ahead again on away goals, but the drama was not over there as VAR was used once again in stoppage time. And on this occasion, a goal was disallowed, with Sterling denied a hat-trick and a dramatic late winner, with Walton stating that in his opinion,the right decision was made. "Absolutely correct. In the attacking phase of play, Aguero was offside when he receives the ball and the goal should not stand," the former Premier League referee said. Keep up to date with the latest Tottenham Hotspur news, features and exclusives from football.london via our free WhatsApp service . Text NEWS to 07776197989 and then add the number to your phone contacts book as spurs dot london (case sensitive, with spaces) to receive daily updates and breaking news from Alasdair Gold and the team on Spurs. Your phone number won't be shared with any other members of the group. Click here for more information on the service.<doc-sep>The use of VAR was at the centre of the thrilling Champions League quarter final second leg between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, with Pep Guardiola feeling aggrieved over the referee not using one specific angle that showed the ball hitting Fernando Llorente's arm for his decisive goal. The City boss had no issue with Raheem Sterling's late strike being chalked off courtesy of a correct VAR review but he did lament referee Cuneyt Cakir not exploring another angle for the Llorente goal. "I support VAR but maybe from one angle Fernando Llorente's goal is handball, maybe from the referee's angle it is not," Guardiola said, as per The Guardian. Advert 10 In the 73rd minute, the former Swansea City and Athletic Bilbao striker bundled the ball in past Ederson from Christian Eriksen's corner. Turkish referee Cakir went to the VAR screen and after a long wait, elected to award the goal and gestured to his hip while City players protested. However, the angle that he was not privy to, shows the ball clearly striking Llorente's arm before it hits his hip and ends up in the back of the net. Advert 10 The arm cannot have a material effect on a goal being scored. Intent or natural position do not factor in. The ref was not given this angle on his VAR check for some reason. He got the wrong angle. pic.twitter.com/dwfXy2Q4Zi - Craig Burley (@CBurleyESPN) April 17, 2019 Opinions on the decision has been split amongst fans and pundits alike but BT Sport's Rio Ferdinand was adamant that it was handball. Advert 10 "That's off his arm for me. That's hit his arm. Watch the skin on his arm, it moves,' the Manchester United defender said, to which host Gary Lineker replied: 'But even if it just flicks the arm and then goes onto the hips that's not... is it? "I'm just saying the ball's hit his arm and then it's up to the referee to determine whether its a handball or not,' Ferdinand added. "I think it's handball personally I've got to be honest." The law on handballs in the game will change as part of a number of IFAB rule changes coming into play next season, meaning accidental handball - like in the case of Llorente last night because his arm was by his side - would see the goal disallowed. Advert 10 IFAB technical director David Elleray told the BBC: "Deliberate handball remains an offence. In the past we've managed to improve the laws by focusing on outcome rather than intent.<doc-sep>
Manchester City midfielder did not hide his anger after his team were dumped out of the UEFA Champions League by English rivals Tottenham on a rollercoaster night of action at the Etihad Stadium. City beat Spurs 4-3 in Manchester but the London club progressed on away goals following their 1-0 win at home a week ago. Also on rt.com Reaction as Spurs knock Man City out on astonishing night of Champions League drama An incredible game – which featured five goals in the opening 21 minutes – made use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) at two crucial junctures. The first came when Spurs forward Fernando Llorente scored from a corner on 73 minutes, bundling the ball over the line to put the score at 4-4 on aggregate. There was the strong suggestion that the Spaniard had used his hand to do so, although having consulted VAR, referee Cuneyt Cakir was satisfied that the goal should stand. Replays showed that the ball may indeed have brushed Llorente’s arm before hitting his thigh and going in, although it was not intentional. Then came yet more drama as City thought they had won the tie in injury time when Raheem Sterling had the ball in the back of the net, sparking wild celebrations from the City players, staff and fans. But again, VAR would intervene to the benefit of Spurs, as Turkish official Cakir was informed that City striker Sergio Aguero had been offside before passing the ball to Sterling to score. All class.Pep Guardiola takes it on the chin after enduring one of the most heartbreaking ends to a football match in recent memory.#OptusSport#UCL#MCITOTpic.twitter.com/AeO6of6l41 — Optus Sport (@OptusSport) April 18, 2019 City’s Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho, a second-half substitute on the night, apparently made his feelings clear after the game about the intervention of VAR against his team. “F*ck VAR,” the 33-year-old is said to have replied when asked for comment from journalists in the mixed zone. Asked Fernandinho for a word in the mixed zone. He gave me two: “Fuck VAR.” — Simon Mullock (@MullockSMirror) April 17, 2019 City boss Pep Guardiola was somewhat more diplomatic in his post-match press conference, but still lamented what he felt was the injustice of the Llorente goal. "I support VAR, absolutely, if just to see the goal from Llorente 's handball; from one angle it's handball, but from the angle the referee saw, it's not,” the Spaniard said. “I'm a fan for the fair football, the fair decisions. The referee must be helped sometimes, and if he's [Aguero’s] offside, he's offside, what can I say?” Guardiola added when discussing the injury-time drama. Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino paid tribute to his team of “heroes,” who got the job done despite the absence of star striker Harry Kane, who injured himself in the first leg. "I am more than happy, I am more than proud. To be in the semis was a dream. Now we are there. My players are heroes," the Argentine said. Tottenham will be appearing at this stage of Europe’s top club competition for just the second time in their history, and will meet a young Ajax team equally as unfancied to have come this far in the tournament. Elsewhere, Liverpool set up a quarter-final meeting with Spanish giants Barcelona. Jurgen Klopp’s Premier League stars, beaten finalists last season, eased past Porto 4-1 away from home to win their tie 6-1 on aggregate.
The New York Rangers get their first win at the Traverse City Tournament defeating Minnesota 4-2. The New York Rangers followed up a bad loss on Friday night to Dallas with an encouraging 4-2 win over the Minnesota Wild. Jeremy Brodeur, on a tryout invite, made 24 saves for his first win. Ville Meskanen, two goals in two games, Brett Howden, Tim Gettinger and Ryan Lindgren recorded goals in the game. Lindgren’s goal was set up by a great pass by Jakob Stukel allowing Lindgren to skate in alone on the Minnesota goalie and finishing the play to give the Rangers a 1-0 lead. Timmy Getts gets the first one in Traverse City. How beautiful is this, watching a hockey highlight? #NYRpic.twitter.com/sOnEiO9q8i — Elite Sports NY (@EliteSportsNY) September 9, 2018 Brett Howden, who continued his scoring touch from Friday night where he had two assists, scored in the game on Saturday to give the Rangers a two-goal lead. Ty Ronning and Dawson Leedahl had the assists. Five minutes later Filip Chytil hit Ville Meskanen with a quick backhand pass to give the Rangers at 3-0 lead. Chytil, the Rangers first round pick last year, has looked good in the two games the team has played in. Chytil missed last year’s tournament due to injury. The Rangers specialty team was the story of the night as the team went six out of seven on the PK. The Rangers killed off three consecutive penalties, including two separate five on three opportunities. Lias Andersson laid his body in front of shots on the penalty kill which was appreciated by his fellow teammates. “Guys were willing to block shots,” Lindgren said to Matt Calamia of NHL.Com. “You saw Andersson go down to block a big one on the five-on-three. Guys just doing what it takes to get the puck out.” The Rangers will not play a game tomorrow as they prepare for a showdown against the Detroit Red Wings on Monday afternoon at 4 p.m. ET. The team will play their final game on Tuesday, time and opponent to be determined after all of Monday’s game is concluded.<doc-sep>Rangers prospects got pummeled by Detroit in their third Traverse City game on Monday, losing 5-0. They got outshot 34-to-14, and to be blunt there were not many positive takeaways. Here are a few nonetheless. One thing that has been encouraging to see throughout the tournament is Chytil’s play away from the puck. An impressive aspect of his game is that he immediately engages in forechecking mode when there is a turnover in the offensive zone. Here is one extended shift where you see this twice. He knows exactly where to go in order to take away the outlets. Chytil has the ability to make skilled plays, and that’s course very important. The ability to extend shifts in the offensive zone by recycling possession (and preventing the opposition from pushing up the ice themselves) is what he will need to do in order to become a complete first-line center. Ty Ronning always hustles, but in this game particularly his effort stood out. Though it amounted to nothing on the scoreboard, he worked hard to win puck battles behind the goal line. He also showed off why, despite his size, he could become a good penalty killing option in the NHL. Check out this incredible read by him in the neutral zone on one penalty kill. Though this game was a mess defensively for the Rangers (more on this later), I thought Joey Keane was the lone bright spot in the back. He rushed the puck well, tried to make plays in the offensive end, and defended one-on-one very well. Watch this shift carefully (Keane is #82 in white). He stands up his man immediately upon the initial zone entry. Then, despite losing his stick, he completely erases elite offensive winger Filip Zadina along the boards and creates another turnover. Finally, I’ll say that both Brett Howden and Lias Andersson showed their polish. Andersson in particular showed his defensive chops, while Howden made another quality pass off the rush. Before I get to the ugly bits, I want to again send a reminder that this is a ragtag group of players still on their summer legs. They’re barely using organized tactics, they just met the guys they’re sharing the ice with, and a third of the roster consists of fringe prospects or guys on tryouts. There have been moments where Libor Hajek has looked very good. There have, however, been less optimal moments. After Friday’s game I highlighted an example of a poor turnover by Hajek, which is something that plagues his game. He did it again against Detroit, and this time it cost the Rangers on the scoreboard. Hajek has also taken four separate penalties through three games. That would have been more understandable from one of the younger players. Given Hajek’s pedigree, though, the Rangers probably expect a bit better. It’s a similar situation for Ryan Lindgren. He too is a veteran and has taken four different minor penalties. In my prospect rankings I wrote that I think his lack of offensive ability significantly limits his upside, in my view. A common refrain has been that it’s not Lindgren’s job, as a defensive defenseman, to put up points. Here are two Lindgren (#55) clips to elaborate on my point. Lindgren is actually decent enough at skating with the puck, and his defensive outlets are okay. But he struggles when it comes to contributing to possession in the offensive zone. Twice here you can see how uncomfortable he is on the puck with any sort of pressure. On both occasions his misplays end the team’s possession in the offensive zone and Detroit is able to push the puck into the Rangers’ zone. It’s not solely about goals and assists, though that certainly is a part of it. But can Lindgren improve his poise on the puck in order to keep shifts in the offensive end instead of defensive end? Finally, 2018 4th-round pick Nico Gross (#41) got exposed on a few occasions. Twice here you can see him drift to his defensive partner’s side. Detroit makes a rudimentary pass across, and because Gross leaves such a massive gap it’s basically a free zone entry. Then, on the first clip he awkwardly bends over and pretty much takes himself out of the passing lane. Detroit scores. On the second, he gets burned clean on the outside lane and allows a scoring chance. Gross is just an 18-year-old in his first camp of this kind, so his rawness is understandable. I also think this is a correctable issue, as Gross is a good skater. He has the athletic ability to play a tighter gap. Some work on technique and time in the video room could do the job here. It’s a big problem, but not necessary a lost cause. The Rangers finish the tournament today against St. Louis at 3 pm EST.<doc-sep>The New York Rangers 2018 Traverse City Tournament continues at 4:00pm ET against the baby Detroit Red Wings. So far, the Rangers and Detroit are both 1-1 in the tournament. The Rangers kicked things off with a 7-5 loss to the Dallas Stars, which Adam recapped, and followed that up with a 4-2 win over the Minnesota Wild. After a day off yesterday, today’s matchup is the last of the round robin for the Blueshirts. There are a few lineup changes, including Drew Melanson and Nico Gross drawing in, Jakob Stukel being scratched, and Gabriel Fontaine moving to the second line. Jeremy Brodeur gets starts his second consecutive game in net. Today's #NYRTCT lineup that will face Detroit at 4 pm. pic.twitter.com/7HWUCRkgkd — New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 10, 2018 Live stream on Fox Sports Go and here<doc-sep>
The Rangers kicked off their Traverse City tournament last night with a 7-5 loss to the Dallas Stars and look to bounce back this evening against the Minnesota Wild. Adam has your recap of the first game here, noting that both Brett Howden and Filip Chytil starred for the Blueshirts. Here’s how the first day of the tournament went for all the teams participating 2018 Prospect Tournament day one results: STL - 1 vs. CAR - 4 CHI - 3 vs. CBJ - 4 DAL - 7 vs. NYR - 5 DET - 2 vs. MIN - 4#DRWPT #LGRW — Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) September 8, 2018 The Rangers posted some highlights of game 1, along with some thoughts from Brett Howden and Lias Andersson, both had multi-point efforts against the Stars. “As the game went on, I think we found what makes our game tick a little bit.” Hear @B_Howdy21 and @liasandersson give their thoughts on last night's #NYRTCT matchup against Dallas. pic.twitter.com/m7dHJ6tejm — New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 8, 2018 And here’s a look at all five of the Rangers’ goals from last night all 5⃣ #NYRTCT goals from last night's game against the Stars. pic.twitter.com/mRlbNdgnFD — New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 8, 2018 As for Minnesota, they took on Detroit’s prospects in their first game and picked up a 4-2 win. For tonight’s contest the Rangers have moved some pieces around How the #NYRTCT lines will look tonight against Minnesota. pic.twitter.com/tCNB3NUbpd — New York Rangers (@NYRangers) September 8, 2018 Sean Day and Nico Gross come out of the lineup, Jeremy Brodeur gets the start in net, while Libor Hajek moves to the right side of the defense, and the offense remains the same. Live stream here
Kairana bypoll: Combined opposition dents BJP MEERUT: After Gorakhpur and Phoolpur loss, BJP faced its second successive defeat in bypolls after it conceded the Kairana Lok Sabha seat to grand alliance candidate in a fierce electoral battle.RLD candidate Tabassum Hasan defeated her nearest rival BJP's Mriganka Singh by over 55,000 votes. SP candidate Naimul Hasan won in Bijnor's Noorpur by 6,211 votes defeating Avani Singh of BJP, adding to the party's humiliating defeat in bypolls barely a year away from general elections.Riding on polarisation and sympathy votes, BJP was served a blow both in Kairana and Noorpur - where opposition had come together to field a common candidate, an experiment that had tasted success in Gorakhpur and Phoolpur earlier this year.Both western UP seats had fallen vacant after the death of sitting BJP legislators in MP Hukum Singh of Kairana (who died of ill-health) and MLA Lokender Singh of Noorpur who passed away in an accident.In order to garner sympathy votes, BJP had fielded daughter and wife of the deceased leaders.Kairana has been the most watched constituency with huge political relevance so much so senior leaders including CM Yogi visited repeatedly for campaigning in this region.Even PM Modi chose to inaugurate Eastern peripheral expressway just a day before bypoll in the neighbouring district Baghpat drawing great amount of criticism from opposition that even rushed to EC to get it cancelled in order to prevent its influence on bypoll.Kairana Lok Sabha constituency comprises five assembly seats – Kairana, Shamli, Thanabhawan, Nakud and Gangoh. Out of these five BJP could win only in Shamli and Kairana with a margin of 414 and 14,203 votes but lost in the remaining three. In Shamli it lost by 16,336 votes. In Gangoh and Nakud which fall in Saharanpur district, BJP lost by 12,263 and 28,117 votes respectively.One of the BJP poll supervisors -- Muzaffarnagar MP Sanjeev Balyan -- conceded defeat stating, "We respect decision of voters and cannot question that. We went into the masses with records of our good work but many a times, politics of religion and caste spoils things. We will sit and analyse where we failed and work accordingly. "Tabassum Hasan meanwhile declared victory and stated, "The truth has won eventually and indication of what is going to happen in 2019."<doc-sep>The BJP knew the importance of sugarcane as a political issue in Uttar Pradesh and Kairana during the 2017 Assembly elections, but its failure to fulfill the promises it made in the 2017 Assembly elections in the Uttar Pradesh Facilitating purchase of all sugarcane produce and timely payment of arrears to sugarcane farmers was one of the key poll-promises of the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh, but the government failed to keep the farmers satisfied, especially in Kairana, the result of which was BJP's crushing defeat in the Kairana Lok Sabha constituency, reports have claimed. That BJP's Jinnah politics failed against the Opposition parties ganna politics. Interestingly, apart from being one of the largest growers of sugarcane, Uttar Pradesh also pays the highest State Advised Price (SAP) for sugarcane. Unlike Maharashtra or Karnataka where rates are way lower and closer to the rate fixed by the central government, Uttar Pradesh in 2017 had announced an SAP of Rs 315. Then why are farmers in Uttar Pradesh, or Kairana, not happy? And how did it lead to the BJP's defeat in the Kairana by election? Can the Yogi Adityanth government be blamed for the bypoll results? Ever since the Adityanath government came to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2017, the ruling party has been in (ill)famously in news for things like banning cow slaughter, closing unlicensed meat shops, its ministers making communally flaring comments on the Ram Mandir or inter-faith marriages, and for atrocities against Dalits — now defined as "everyday communalism" to keep the Hindutva politics alive. Solving pertinent issues doesn't seem to be on the mind of the state government. One such issue is the sugarcane problem in the state. In other words, the Adityanath administration has been busy doing everything except administering the state. Sugarcane is a major cash crop in Uttar Pradesh. It accounts for roughly Rs 30,000 crore worth of direct economy and has over 40 lakh rural households engaged in various activities including farming. Sugarcane, thus, is a politically sensitive issue, and any decision around it can make or break the goodwill among voters, especially in communally sensitive western Uttar Pradesh. Kairana being one of the Lok Sabha constituencies in the region. The BJP knew it very well, and therefore, in its 2017 poll manifesto, the party made two poll promises — payment to farmers within 14 days of selling sugarcane, and second, ensure mills purchase all the sugarcane produced. In November 2017, it announced that sugarcane will be purchased at an SAP of Rs 315 per quintal and that farmers will be paid in one installment by sugar mills. According to India Today, state sugarcane minister Suresh Rana, and an MLA from Thana Bhavan, one of the Assembly constituencies that are part of the Kairana parliamentary constituency, had even said that there would be no piling up of arrears this season due to stricter monitoring and structural changes, including the provision of a joint escrow account, under which 85 percent of the money received by mills on account of the sale of sugar would be diverted for settling farmers’ dues automatically. By March 2018, with sugarcane crushing still in progress, Uttar Pradesh had already clocked a record production of sugar with almost 9 lakh tonnes. Though this was a good production year for Uttar Pradesh sugar mills, it also meant a piling up of arrears to be paid to farmers also since sugar prices in India haven't risen vis-a-vis to sugarcane prices, especially in Uttar Pradesh. Despite assurances by the Adityanath government, payment of arrears remained slow. By March 2018, sugar mills in Uttar Pradesh reportedly owed Rs 9,600 crores (Rs 12,000 crores according to India Today) in arrears to farmers. In Kairana alone, the arrears due were at Rs 1,000 crore. The fact that Uttar Pradesh sugarcane prices — Rs 315 for common variety (used for sugar production) as fixed by the government — was way higher than sugarcane prices in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka doesn't help the case either. Interestingly, while Maharashtra and Karnataka use a revenue-sharing formula where sugarcane is purchased as per fair and remunerative price (FRP) fixed by the Centre. The FRP for the ongoing season is Rs 255 which was Rs 230 in the previous years. The Adityanath government not only failed to fulfill the promises made in its poll manifesto, that it continued with the methods of the Akhilesh Yadav government shows a lack of interest in bringing the change that it promised. In the end, BJP's poll promise led to its defeat in Kairana by-election. And it did so, without taking any significant efforts to resolve Uttar Pradesh's sugarcane problem. That the Adityanth government had lost the plot when it came to Uttar Pradesh's sugarcane problem was clear when it ordered a CBI inquiry into the sale of 21 sugarcane mills by the then Mayawati government. While tjhe BJP hoped to deflect the attention to the Opposition, the move backfired as the probe dashed the hopes of the mills' revival in their future. Even Modi's visit to Baghpat to inaugurate an expressway just a day before Kairana went to polls didn't help BJP. "Ganna" eventually even beat BJP's development agenda. With inputs from PTI<doc-sep>Lok Sabha Bypoll Results 2018 Live: The bye-election on four parliamentary seats were held on May 28. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav) Lok Sabha Bypoll Results 2018 Live: The bye-election on four parliamentary seats were held on May 28. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav) Electoral success continued to evade BJP in the face of an united opposition in Uttar Pradesh bypolls as the saffron party was trounced by RLD in Kairana Lok Sabha seat, while Samajwadi Party gave it the blues in Noorpur assembly constituency. RLD candidate Tabassum Hasan, who was backed by SP and Congress and tacitly supported by BSP, defeated BJP’s Mriganka Singh by over 50,000 votes. Singh, the daughter of late BJP leader Hukum Singh, whose death in February necessitated the bye-election, conceded defeat and said the alliance had emerged strong. “Many voters did vote for BJP but with a lead of some thousand votes, the alliance has won. I would like to congratulate the candidate. The alliance has emerged strong and now we have to prepare better for future,” Singh said. Read | How to check bye-election results on Election Commission of India website Meanwhile, in Mahatashtra, BJP retained the Palghar Lok Sabha seat while NCP won in Bhandara-Gondiya constituency. BJP’s Rajendra Gavit defeated his nearest rival, Shriniwas Wanga of Shiv Sena, the son of sitting MP Chintaman Vanga, whose death in January had necessitated the bypoll, by over 29,000 votes. However, Shiv Sena claimed there was discrepancy in the counting of votes in a few rounds in Palghar and demanded recounting. Sena has shot off a letter to the election officials. In Bhandara-Gondiya seat, which the BJP had won in the 2014 elections, the NCP’s Madhukar Kukade has established a lead of 16,112 votes over the BJP’s Hemant Patle. Follow Kairana Lok Sabha bypoll results 2018 LIVE Coming to the eastern region, Tokheho Yepthomi, fielded by the ruling People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA), is leading over his lone rival of the opposition NPF for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Nagaland. LIVE | Assembly Bypoll Results 2018<doc-sep>The Samajwadi Party has won the Noorpur Assembly seat by 6,678 votes. Meanwhile, RLD's Tabassum Hasan is leading with 3,60,821 votes in Kairana. Auto refresh feeds Earlier in March, the saffron party had suffered defeats in the bypolls held in Gorakhpur and Phulpur Lok Sabha seats after two opposition parties – BSP and SP – joined hands. The united opposition will treat the bypolls as a pilot project, which if successful, will surely be replicated in 2019 to stop the BJP from coming back to power. All eyes will be on the Kairana Lok Sabha seat and Noorpur Assembly constituency as counting is set to begin in a few hours. The outcome of the polls is crucial for both, the BJP and the Opposition. While the saffron party needs to prove that the mandate is pro-incumbency in Uttar Pradesh, all eyes will be on the combined Opposition candidates in the fray to see if they can uproot the BJP. The counting of votes will start from 8 am in both the constituencies on Thursday. The results are expected to be out by late afternoon. Moreover, malfunctions were reported in 384 VVPAT (Vote Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) machines. Of this 29 were in Noorpur (Bijnor). Apart from this, three EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) also malfunctioned in Shamli. Following these reports, repolling was conducted at 73 polling booths in Kairana on Wednesday, with 61 percent voter turnout. At the end of polling, Kairana Lok Sabha constituency recorded a polling percentage of 54.17, while in Noorpur Assembly constituency, the figure was 61 percent, Joint Chief Electoral Officer, Ramesh Chandra Rai, said. The bypolls in both seats were marred by controversy over malfunctioning EVMs, election malpractices, while the troubles of the parties were compounded by a low voter turnout. The Kairana seat fell vacant after the death of BJP MP Hukum Singh, whose daughter Mriganka Singh is now the party candidate. She is fighting Rashtriya Lok Dal's Tabassum Hasan, who is also supported by the Congress, the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party. Just ahead of the polls, Lok Dal candidate Kanwar Hasan retired from the contest and joined RLD, further boosting Hasan's chances. Mriganka had also contested the Assembly elections in Kairana in 2017 but she lost heavily to Samajwadi Party's Nahid Hasan, who is the son of party's former MP Munawar Khan. In Noorpur by-election, the main contest is between BJP and Samajwadi Party. The BJP has fielded Avani Singh, the wife of the deceased MLA from the seat Lokendra Singh Chauhan as its candidate, while the Samajwadi Party has given a ticket to Naeemul Hasan. The polls were necessitated after the death o Chauhan. The outcome of the Kairana bye-election on Thursday will show if the ruling BJP manages to break its losing streak this year in Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha bypolls or hands over a hat-trick to the Opposition. The counting of votes for the Noorpur Assembly constituency in the state will also be taken up on Thursday. The counting of votes will begin at 8 am. Voting for the Kairana Lok Sabha seat was held on 28 May and re-polling on Wednesday due to dysfunction of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), VVPAT machine at 73 booths. The counting for the Kairana Lok Sabha seat will be done at Saharanpur while for the Noorpur Vidhan Sabha seat, counting will take place in Bijnor. It is scheduled to start at 8 am. The Lok Sabha seats include Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, Palghar, and Bhandara-Gondiya in Maharashtra and the sole parliamentary constituency in Nagaland. The Assembly consituencies are Noorpur (Uttar Pradesh), Shahkot (Punjab), Jokihat (Bihar), Gomia and Silli (Jharkhand), Chengannur (Kerala), Palus Kadegaon (Maharashtra), Ampati (Meghalaya), Tharali (Uttarakhand) and Maheshtala (West Bengal). The counting of votes for 10 Assembly constituencies and four Lok Sabha seats across 10 states will be held on Thursday. The seats had gone to polls on 28 May. Counting of votes for the crucial Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh has begun on Thursday. The results of these seats are important for both the BJP and the Opposition. While the saffron party needs to prove that it hasn't lost its magic of the previous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, all eyes will be on the combined Opposition candidates in the fray to see if they uproot the BJP. Naeem Ul Hasan, who is contesting on the Samajwadi Party ticket from the Noorpur Assembly seat, is leading with 1,264 votes. After the second round pf counting, the Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate from Noorpur, Naeem Ul Hasan is leading. According to News18 , BJP candidate Mriganka Singh is leading in early trends. Kairana is one of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh and is located in the western region of the state. As per early trends, joint opposition candidate Tabassum Hasan, contesting on a Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) ticket, for the Kairana Lok Sabha seat is leading. Shamli collector Indra Vijay Singh informed the media that the first round of counting has been completed with tabulation underway. "Congress candidate Tabassum Hasan has received 3,700 votes and BJP's Mriganka Singh has received 3,746 votes," he siad. Since the early 1990s. the families of Hukum Singh and Munawwar Hassan have been locked in a see-saw tussle for Kairana in Uttar Pradesh. Even after their deaths, their political legacies have been handed over to people from their families for the last two decades. Since 1991, every Kairana MLA has been from either of these two families, according to News18 . Hassan passed away in a road accident in Haryana’s Palwal in 2008. Singh passed away 10 years later of a prolonged illness. But the rivalry didn’t die with them. Naeem Ul Hasan of Samajwadi Party leading in Noorpur Assembly seat after the fifth round with 4,385 votes. According to News18 Hindi , RLD candidate Tabassum Hasan is leading in Kairana by 30,085 votes after the fourth round of counting. BJP's Mriganka Singh received 15,095 votes. Following the third round of counting, RLD's Tabassum Hasan has garnered 55,082 votes while BJP candidate Mriganka Singh is trailing at 45,300 votes.<doc-sep>
Voting in Kairana on Monday was hit by snags in the voting machines. Highlights BJP trails in the Kairana Lok Sabha seat in Uttar Pradesh RLD's Tabassum Hasan is also backed by Congress and SP in Kairana Kairana bypoll is being seen as another test for opposition unity The opposition today wrested Kairana from the ruling BJP in Uttar Pradesh, where the parliamentary by-poll became a massive battle for pride in an election year leading up to the 2019 national polls.Tabassum Hasan, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) candidate, won against her BJP rival Mriganka Singh.Ms Hasan, a former lawmaker, was supported by the Congress and Samajwadi Party ; she also claimed the support of Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). The by-poll was pitched as another test of opposition unity against the BJP after the Samajwadi Party and BSP pooled their resources to defeat the ruling party in its strongholds Gorakhpur and Phulpur in March.The opposition hopes to evolve a successful template for joining forces to take on the BJP in state elections later this year and the 2019 national polls.By-polls were held in Kairana because of the death of Mriganka Singh's father, BJP parliamentarian Hukum Singh, in February.In the Noorpur Assembly seat, which was also left vacant after the death of a BJP legislator in a road accident, the Samajwadi Party has won. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav said the opposition's win in Kairana and Noorpur was a win for the farmers, the neglected, the poor and the Dalits. He also thanked all opposition parties for coming together and ensuring the win in the bypolls. "Farmers were told their loans would be waived, but they lost lives instead. Voters made it a point to bear whatever the circumstances to come out just to teach a lesson to the BJP. I also thank all other political leaders who came together and stood together to ensure that we win," he said.Voting in both Kairana and Noorpur was hit by complaints of snags in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and VVPATs or or Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail machines that produces slips to confirm to the voter that his choice has been recorded correctly. Repolling was held at 73 polling stations in Kairana yesterday.
Johnny Manziel made his second-career Canadian Football League start on Saturday night. The former Heisman Trophy winner had an improved outing after his disastrous first start last weekend. The Montreal Alouettes lost to the Ottawa Redblacks, 24-17, but Manziel was much more accurate and had no turnovers. Manziel finished the game 16-of-26 for 168 yards. He also ran the ball three times for 36 yards. He admitted that it was better than his previous performance, but it didn’t take much for that to be the case. “I mean, we didn’t turn the ball over, we didn’t throw four picks in the first half,” Manziel said. “Anything is better than last week.” Manziel did take a brutal hit near the goal line. It was tough to watch. After Manziel took this hit last night #AlsMTL went 2 & out five straight possessions to finish the game. Excluding the final play where #Redblacks were in prevent Johnny was 3/7 for 12 yards in those five possessions. #CFL pic.twitter.com/cA9PAkRWyj — Marshall Ferguson (@TSN_Marsh) August 12, 2018 Yikes. Thankfully, he appeared to come out of the game feeling OK.<doc-sep>OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — Johnny Manziel eliminated the interceptions but couldn't generate enough offense for the Montreal Alouettes in a 24-17 loss to the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday night. After throwing four first-half interceptions last week in his Montreal debut, Manziel was 16 of 26 for 168 yards without an interception. He also ran three times for 36 yards, with his fumble at the goal line recovered for a third-quarter touchdown by center Kristian Matte. "I want to be fighting with these guys. I want to be their quarterback and the quarterback of this team in this city," said Manziel, sporting a big welt on his chin. "I've been sitting out for a long time and waiting for another opportunity. It sucks when you don't see results. It's hard when you don't see results. But at the end of the day when you have faith in the guy to the left or right of you, your brothers on this team, we'll be OK." Ottawa broke a tie with 15 seconds left on William Powell's 10-yard touchdown run. Montreal is 1-7 this season and has won just once in 19 games going back a year. "It sucks to lose the game, and I'm not sitting here saying I'm happy with the outcome of the game . but as far as improvement we're close," he said. "We're a lot closer than we were a week ago and if we continue to make those strides, we'll be OK." The welt on Manziel's chin came on the touchdown play where he fumbled. "Ran into a brick wall," Manziel said. "That defense was fast, that defense was big and aggressive. They hit hard, they're quick. But like I told these guys, you're not going to take me out like that." The Alouettes acquired Manziel from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats three weeks ago. The 2012 Heisman Trophy winner at Texas A&M, played in two exhibition games for Hamilton, but couldn't get on the field behind starter Jeremiah Masoli in the regular season. Montreal's 50-11 home loss to Hamilton last week was his first regular-season action since December 2015 with the NFL's Cleveland Browns. "I thought he came in and threw the ball well, made some really good decisions," Alouettes coach Mike Sherman said. "I thought he did a good job and he'd just be better and better." Trevor Harris was 44 of 54 for 487 yards and a touchdown for the East-leading Redblacks (5-3). He threw a second-quarter interception that Chris Ackie returned for a touchdown. Powell had 17 carries for 104 yards and caught two passes for 21 yards.<doc-sep>AP For those wishing we would ignore Johnny Manziel, well, you’ll have to wait at least another week. Manziel made his second start in the Canadian Football League with nowhere to go but up after a four-interception game in his Montreal Alouettes debut. The former Heisman Trophy winner completed 16 of 26 passes for 168 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 36 yards on three carries, with one of those resulting in a touchdown after he fumbled into the end zone and a teammate recovered. Still, the Alouettes lost to Ottawa 24-17, getting outgained 601 yards to 271. Ottawa scored with 15 seconds remaining after the Alouettes punted with 2:42 left. Manziel was “humbled” by his former team a week ago, finishing 11-for-20 for 104 yards, with no touchdowns and four interceptions, plus two rushes for 4 yards, in a 47-3 loss to Hamilton.<doc-sep>
After a dismal Canadian Football League (CFL) debut a week ago in which he threw four interceptions, Johnny Manziel received another shot on Saturday. After recently being traded from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to the Montreal Alouettes, the former Texas A&M standout saw his first-ever regular season action north of the border last Friday against his former team. Things did not go well as Montreal fell to Hamilton, 50-11, with Manziel recording the aformentioned four picks. The one-time Heisman Trophy winner did not have a touchdown pass in the contest. Eight days later, Manziel had his second start for the Alouettes on Saturday night as Montreal looked to improve on a league-worst record. Though Montreal still took the loss, falling 24-17 to the first-place Ottawa Redblacks on a last-minute touchdowns, Manziel looked much improved. He still has yet to throw a touchdown pass, but he did not have any turnovers this time either. The first-ever freshman Heisman Trophy winner and former Cleveland Browns first-round selection from 2014 finished the game 16-26 passing for 168 yards. He also showed off his scrambling ability, running for 36 yards on three carries. However, Montreal's defense did not have an answer for Trevor Harris on the other side of the ball. The Ottawa quarterback finished one completion shy of a CFL record with 44 to go along with 487 yards. Still, it was not until a William Powell touchdown run with 15 seconds left in the game that the Redblack were able to secure the victory. Montreal, under first year head coach Mike Sherman, is now 1-7 on the season. With not much on the line, it is likely Manziel will receive plenty more opportunities under his former college coach. The Alouettes play next on Sat., Aug. 18 vs. the Edmonton Eskimos. The game will air nationally across the United State on ESPN2.
They say kitchens sell houses. Can a tailgate sell a truck? The calling card of the 2019 GMC Sierra isn’t the hulking engine or the trademark grille, but the six-way MultiPro tailgate, GMC’s attempt to turn the ordinary up-or-down tailgate of old into a multitool meant to get you in and out of the bed easier and help you do more with the back of your pickup. MultiPro is one of several new technologies meant to give the new full-size truck more wow factor, and also to make the Sierra feel like a truly elevated truck (and not a rebadged Chevrolet Silverado, a stereotype GM is trying to shed). Motoring around the rugged, tree-lined island of Newfoundland in a ’19 Sierra Denali, we saw what this high-tech truck can do and tested out the four features you need to know. MultiPro Tailgate Andrew Moseman The idea to reinvent the tailgate was born from GMC’s innovation lab, what the company describes as its own private version of Shark Tank where engineers can pitch any new idea no matter how strange. The project spent two years in R&D to be ready for its star turn as a standard item on the SLT and Denali variant of the new Sierra, and also on AT4, GMC’s newly introduced off-road truck. The MultiPro can fold straight down like a typical tailgate would, but also has a secondary hinged piece that can stand upward at the end as a catching, allowing a person to carry longer items than the 5-foot-8-inch box could normally accommodate. Or a piece can fold downwards in the middle, creating a lower step for easy access when climbing up (there’s a hand grab bar that folds out, too, to help you pull yourself up). Three more configurations are available by leaving the main gate upright but pulling down the smaller “inner gate” as shown below above. In this way you can create a flat surface to work on while standing behind the truck, or raise a stop in back to catch items at a different height (it’s built with four-foot-wide cargo such as sheets of plywood in mind). GMC loaded our truck with a Newfoundland assortment of payload—cod boxes, lobster traps—to show off try a person might want a transformer tailgate. It’s complicated, but frankly, it’s cool. “We will absolutely sell trucks based on the innovation in that tailgate,” GMC’s Phil Bloom says. Rear-View Camera The outgoing Sierra features the first-generation of this option. Basically, push back a tab on the rearview mirror and it switches from a real mirror into a digital display showing the feed from a rear-facing camera mounted on the truck’s exterior. Under normal driving conditions, it’s frankly difficult to use; a person’s eyes must adjust to looking at the real world to looking at a digital screen every time they gaze up there. The idea, though, is that a camera feed would be useful anytime you’re hauling a bed full of gear or a trailer or anything else that obstructs the view backward, and to that end, the second-gen camera in the new Sierra features options to make the screen brighter or dimmer or to adjust the zoom to help you see more of what’s behind you. ProGrade Trailering GMC High-end trucks are getting tech-heavy. Trailers? Not so much. That bed for your boat remains rooted in dumb technology and old-school skill and patience. Since it doesn’t build the trailers, GMC is trying to hack some additional smarts into the truck. The new Sierra comes with a center console app full of checklists to make sure you don’t miss any steps when attaching a trailer. A seasoned driver may not need such guidance, but might welcome some of the other included tricks. The just-discussed rearview camera has Hitch Mode to show you exactly how far off you are from the trailer ball, plus a kind of steering guidance overlay suggesting which way to cut the wheel. GM’s OnStar theft deterrence extends to the trailer itself now, meaning it will sound the car alarm if somebody tries to detach your boat. Perhaps most helpful is a feature that auto-engages the parking brake once you’re perfectly positioned to prevent the truck from rolling a few inches and screwing it all up. CarbonPro Box CarbonPro box. GMC The meek won’t inherit the Earth—cockroaches and carbon-fiber truck beds will. That’s GMC Chief Engineer Tim Herrick’s favorite joke about this project, and while it may be exaggeration in the name of salesmanship, it demonstrates how much the brand is thinking about integrating carbon fiber components sooner rather than later. The CarbonPro (yes, GMC loves to call things “Pro”) won’t be available as an option until sometime in 2019. But when it arrives it will be what GMC calls a nigh-indestructible bed, resistant to the dings and scratches you might get in, say, steel. How the CarbonPro box is made. GMC Now, you don’t need a truck bed made with carbon fiber, and you might look upon truck bed scratches as the earned stripes from a life of hard work. Plus, CarbonPro is bound to be a pricey option (the exact figure hasn’t been announced yet) just to shave 62 lbs. and have the coolest bed on the block. This tech feels like a play toward the future, a way for GMC to figure out how to manufacture the lightweight carbon fiber parts that will infiltrate future trucks the way aluminum has become the material of today. The Rest of the Ride Two things strike you upon climbing into the 2019 Sierra. First, it’s spacious. Even in the back it feels cavernous. GMC Second is the heads-up display that glows before your eyes. Such a bright display is a bit jarring, especially if you’re accustomed to driving cars that don’t project a bunch of charts and numbers into your field of view. Thankfully, a few buttons to the left of the wheel will reposition the HUD, brighten or darken it, and toggle through its modes. For driving the twisty roads of foggy Newfoundland, all you need is the speedometer and the lane-keeping assist to let you know when the truck drifts to close to the edge. Charging up a hill during the brief off-road demo, it’s handy to have the data-rich display that also shows the truck’s angle of incline. All automakers are turning to clever bits of engineering to shave weight without losing power. It’s especially crucial for trucks, which need to make better MPG but can’t sacrifice the torque their drivers demand. GMC’s take on cylinder deactivation (closing off some of the engine’s cylinders when they’re not needed to save gas) is called Dynamic Fuel Management, using technology from Tula that we covered earlier this month. The 6.2-liter V8 in our Sierra Denali could change 10 times per second into one of 17 different configurations, in some cases using as few as two of the eight cylinders. Interestingly, GMC chose not to display this information in the dash, though one of its engineers plugged a monitor into the OBD II port to show us the switching in action. For everyday drivers, Dynamic Fuel Management will do its business invisibly. 2019 GMC Sierra AT4. Andrew Moseman Even with such fuel-saving tactics, the Sierra has got plenty of muscle to move you. Sport mode, in particular, impressively tightens the steering and throttle response. I wasn’t expecting a full-sized truck to corner with so much agility as Canada’s constricted byways snaked through Heart’s Delight, Carbonear, and, of course, the town of Dildo, Newfoundland. What a country. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>The 2019 GMC Sierra is basically the luxury-branded version of the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado, offering number of fun tech goodies that the Chevy doesn’t. But as fun as those are, it’s really the styling of the off-road model, the AT4, that makes the Sierra stand out. Advertisement (Full Disclosure: GMC flew me to St. John’s, Newfoundland in Canada, put me up in a nice hotel, and fed me foods that had to be described at length by waiters prior to consumption.) The GMC brand is an odd one, with all of its vehicles being based on the same platforms as Chevrolets, but with unique styling and a few features that GMC hopes will help its products look a bit more “premium” than the ones with bowties on their grilles. It works, too. These things sell like hotcakes. The 2019 GMC Sierra, for example, is built on the very same bones as the Silverado, and is powered by the same engines. But to make it stand out, the “professional grade” truck has some fun tech features like a crazy multi-mode tailgate and a fancy carbon fiber bed . (Expect a bigger deep dive into the tailgate soon.) But as cool as I found them to be , the one thing that would compel me to snag the GMC over the Chevy isn’t the gizmos. Advertisement What Is It? GMC claims that the new Sierra has been more differentiated from its Silverado chassis-mate than ever before, with the luxury-branded truck getting a unique hood, unique fenders, a different front fascia, a special box, and GMC-tailored rear lights. The only major body parts shared with the Silverado, GMC representatives told me, are the cab and the rear doors. On top of that, the GMC gets a bunch of fancy features not available in the Silverado, like an available adaptive damping suspension setup, that optional carbon fiber box, and of course the ridiculously complex six-position MultiPro tailgate. Plus , the Sierra can be had with a special ProGrade Trailering System that includes cameras and apps to ease the burden of towing. As far as mechanical bits go, the GMC gets the same powertrain options as the Silverado. There’s the old 4.3-liter V6 and 5.3-liter V8 from the outgoing generation of trucks, both of which are bolted to six-speed automatics. Plus there’s a new 2.7-liter turbo inline-four and an updated 5.3-liter V8, which are both hooked up to eight-speed autos. Advertisement And there’s an updated 6.2-liter V8 and a fresh new 3.0-liter turbo diesel inline-six, which both spin input shafts of 10-speed autos. The updated 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter now have what GMC calls “Dynamic Fuel Management,” which is an advanced cylinder deactivation technology that—instead of switching between eight and four cylinder modes—actually allows the two motors to run in 17 different patterns between two and eight cylinders in order to optimize efficiency. Also new for the 2019 Sierra is an “AT4" trim level, which represents GMC’s version of the Chevrolet Silverado’s “Trail Boss,” and which, like the Chevy, gets unique styling to separate it from other trim levels. Like the Silverado, the AT4 also gets a two-inch lift, underbody skid plates, Rancho monotube shocks, optional Goodyear Duratrac all-terrain tires, and—most importantly—a locking rear differential. Advertisement What’s Great I’ll begin by saying that the AT4 Sierra is just a sharp looking truck. It takes the standard Sierra, throws some black chrome in the fog lamp bezels, fender surround, and grille insert, plus it turns the grille surround, door handles, and bumpers body-color—a huge improvement over the gaudy chrome that accentuates the weird shape of the grille on other trims. On top of that, the AT4 trim slaps on some red tow hooks onto the lower fascia and bolts on unique 18-inch or 20-inch wheels. GMC says the AT4 offers “authentic off-road capability,” and while that’s totally subjective, I will say that there were three features that—based on the extremely light off-roading during my time with the truck—really help the AT4 when it comes to wandering off the trail Advertisement The optional Goodyear Duratrac tires not only look great, but they are just fantastic, and highly respected in the off-road scene. The rear solid axle, as you can see in my little flex above, offers an impressive amount of articulation, even if the front independent suspension setup does not. Plus, the two-speed transfer case’s low-range gearing (activated through a simple switch on the left side of the steering wheel, shown below) made crawling a breeze. I’ll also say that the two-inch lift kit—which, it’s worth mentioning, is surprisingly bone-simple, consisting of a two-inch block in the rear and lifted spring perches up front—yielded respectable ground clearance, even if that front fascia’s chin is a bit closer to the dirt than I might like. I only drove the 6.2-liter V8 during my time with the GMC Sierra. The motor makes a solid 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, and lugs around about 5,400 pounds of weight respectably, making a pleasant growl with the pedal mashed to the floor. Sure, it only manages about 15 MPG in the city and between 19 and 21 on the highway depending on trim, but the power is worth the thirst. (These are good words to live by). Advertisement The 10-speed automatic—the same one used in the Chevy Camaro and GMC Yukon, though calibrated differently—shifted nicely and felt like it was always in the right gear at the right time. And, to be honest, when I wasn’t deep on the throttle, I just forgot about it and that big V8, as the cabin isolated me into a cocoon of comfort. Speaking of comfort, I can’t say the Adaptive Ride Control made the Sierra’s ride any nicer than that of the latest Ram 1500 I drove, but it actually did a decent job shrugging off the the heavily-potholed roads in Newfoundland, especially for a heavy body-on-frame, leaf-sprung pickup. Another area where the Sierra excelled was in the clarity of its Cameras. The backup camera, the Surround Vision “bird’s eye” camera, and even the rearview mirror camera were all beautifully sharp. Advertisement The picture on that rearview camera can even be tiled and zoomed in, and though I found myself just using the standard mirror, there’s no denying that this camera was well executed. The trailer hitch camera on the tailgate gave a nice view just above the center of the hitch, and though I didn’t have a chance to actually back up and hook up a trailer, this is one of those features that seems like it’ll be a godsend when trying to pick up a project car with a U-Haul. Image: GMC I did use the big three-inch by seven-inch head-up display pretty much the entire time, and thought it was great, giving me the speed limit and navigation information I needed without being overly obtrusive. Plus, the gauge cluster was also crystal clear and easy to read. Advertisement Plus, I found the truck’s MultiPro tailgate, which can be configured into six different positions, to be intuitive and a hell of a lot of fun, even if I don’t think buyers of $45,000 to $70,000 trucks are necessarily going to take advantage of the added utility. (A full review on the tailgate will come later). What’s Weak I spent much of my time driving the nearly $70,000 GMC Sierra Denali, and as nice as the interior was comfort wise, I didn’t find the design particularly appealing. The dashboard looks like it’s giving birth to the chunky center console (sorry for that image everyone), the dual gloveboxes with their huge handles aren’t particularly pretty, and the eight-inch infotainment screen is just a little boring. Advertisement By comparison, I recently sat in a Ram 1500, and just look at how well FCA hid the second glovebox by using a button instead of a handle. And check out that impressive display in the center that reminds you that yes, this is an expensive-ass truck. The GMC Sierra is also an expensive-ass truck, but despite the aluminum bits and the nice leather trim, GMC’s devotion to looking “professional grade” (i.e. chunky) yields an interior design doesn’t make that obvious enough. I also wasn’t particularly impressed by the automatic rear locker, which required quite a bit of wheelspin before actually locking up—that’s not something you want when traversing a technical rock-bed. Advertisement The underbody skid plates also looked a bit modest, with GMC saying there’s just a front oil pan skid plate (that silver thing shown above, presumably), and a transfer case skid plate. The fuel tank, I noticed, was unprotected. Early Verdict GMC Pickups GMC Pickups Sierra Denali & AT4 Sierra Denali & AT4 For Daily Driving...B It's comfortable enough, powerful enough, and practical enough. Though a bit thirsty. For The Enthusiast...B The AT4 and Denali will tow 9,300 pounds and carry over 1,600 pounds of payload. Vehicle Type Pickup Truck Powertrain 6.2-liter V8 Power 420 horsepower Weight ~5,300-5,400 Price ~67,000 (Denali) Data Via GMC The GMC Sierra can be had with a lot of fun features, like a wacky and fun multi-mode tailgate, a carbon fiber bed (which I didn’t get a chance to really put to the test), a crystal clear rearview mirror camera, a big head-up display, and adaptive damping. These features aren’t only fun, they do a decent job at masking the fact that, at its core, this truck is a basic machine with a pushrod V8 sending power through a solid axle connected to a frame via leaf springs. But in the end, to me, what makes the Sierra compelling isn’t all the tech, it’s something a lot simpler: the styling. (The new, controversial Silverado is growing on me too, I’ll admit.) In AT4 guise, the Sierra is a sharp looking machine. That more than anything, along with its general competence, is what draws me to it. Advertisement Correction Aug. 31, 2018: The 3" x7" head-up display is not a GMC-exclusive feature; it’s also available in the Silverado, as is the rearview camera mirror.<doc-sep>
Arguably the biggest feature that distinguishes the 2019 GMC Sierra from the Chevrolet Silverado other than the styling is the fancy “MultiPro” tailgate, which I had a chance to spend an entire day with last week. My conclusion: Even if it’s more of a novelty feature than it is an essential bit of tech, the MultiPro tailgate is still plenty of fun. (Full Disclosure: GMC flew me to Newfoundland, fed me seafood, and put me up in a hotel—all so I could drive the new Sierra.) Though I’ve played with the 2019 GMC Sierra’s MultiPro tailgate before, I recently had a chance to spend hours with one and actually use it for a bit of work, and I came away a fan. Mostly because it’s just downright weird. It’s literally a tailgate within a tailgate within a tailgate—here’s a look at this tailgate-ception in action: I’ll begin by saying that I’m into the general concept, mostly because I’m the kind of person who spends money on fancy pocket knives, ridiculously ornate anodized aluminum flashlights and other crap . So this kind of mechanical nerdiness is right up my alley. The first of the GMC Sierra’s MultiPro tailgate’s six positions (which I enumerate in my MultiPro tailgate explainer) that I had a chance to put to use was the work surface created by clicking the top button on the tailgate and folding only the inner section. Someone apparently took a photo of me, so here I am doodling pictures of Jeeps—I mean writing notes—as GMC execs talked about their new truck: The surface is exactly at the right level for someone of my height (I’m 5'8"), and though it’s ribbed and coated with a textured bedliner, using my notebook’s cardboard backbone made this a supremely comfortable place to scratch down some ideas for my postal Jeep project—I mean a few words about the Sierra’s “bold” design. I will say that folding the tailgate down would have done the job, too. Sure, it would have been a bit lower and not quite as comfortable, and I’d likely have sat on it and written off to the side, but for temporary use like reading maps and quickly writing a few notes, a standard tailgate suffices. So I’d say the work surface is helpful, but maybe not entirely necessary unless for some reason you need to stand and write notes or type on your truck for multiple hours. Next, I dropped the main tailgate, and tried out the “easy access” position, which dropped the center section of the gate out of the way to let me push a few items farther into the bed, and to more easily snag stuff from the front of the bed. It seemed fairly straightforward, and helped get my reach about a foot farther in. I will say that, as I noticed during the initial reveal, trying to find the button that drops the center section of the tailgate when the main gate is in the down position takes a bit of getting used to, as there’s no visual indicator of where that switch is. With the inner tailgate down, folding the step simply requires pressing the button at the center of the tailgate, pointed out above. I found that that button, especially when pressed to deploy a load stop—also took a bit of getting used to, as it had to be pushed in rather far, and could only be pressed by my fingers. I’ll also say that the step isn’t particularly low, requiring me to bend my knee over 90 degrees. The cut-outs in the corners of the rear bumper appeared to be only maybe an inch or so higher, and I found that using it while grabbing onto the bedside wasn’t much more difficult than using the fancy tailgate step. I’ll admit, though, that when coming down off the bed, especially while carrying a heavy load, the tailgate step is much friendlier than trying to use those steps in the bumper. This is probably a good place to mention the MultiPro side steps, which aren’t new to the 2019 GMC Sierra, but are still incredibly useful. Just kick a button on the back side of the side steps, and they come out, and rearward. Especially because they’re lower than the tailgate step, they make getting things from the front of the bed a breeze. I found myself using this feature more frequently than the tailgate for throwing things into the bed, and snagging them back out.
But the president has wide latitude on clearances, and courts are reluctant to overrule presidents on national security matters, Mr. Smith said, so there is probably little the former officials can do to block the move if the White House moves forward. Mr. Clapper declined to discuss the threat in detail but repeated comments he first made in an interview on CNN: “This is just a very, very petty thing to do. And that’s about all I’ll say about it.” Another former official being targeted, Michael V. Hayden, the former head of the C.I.A. and National Security Agency during the George W. Bush administration and a principal at the Chertoff Group who just wrote a book, said the removal of his security clearance would not affect “what I say or write.” He added on Twitter that he does not go to the White House for classified briefings. As unusual as the suggestion was, it reflected an equally remarkable dynamic that has taken hold in the Trump era: the fact that so many former senior intelligence officials are willing to regularly criticize the sitting president in public. Senior intelligence officials generally consider themselves, and the information they provide, nonpartisan. During past administrations, they have attempted to maintain an apolitical posture once they left the government, limiting their public criticism of successors. But Mr. Trump has routinely attacked intelligence agencies, portraying them as part of a so-called deep state, an unelected cabal seeking to steer United States policy and undercut him. Last year after a meeting with Mr. Putin, Mr. Trump called Mr. Brennan, Mr. Clapper and Mr. Comey “political hacks” as he cast doubt on Russia’s interference. After Mr. Trump again stood alongside President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia in Finland last week and sided with him over the intelligence community to cast doubt about the campaign meddling, the trio renewed their denunciations.<doc-sep>“When you have someone with their knowledge and experience,” he said of the former officials, “regardless of whether you agree with them or not, you typically want them to have access in the event that they need to be called back for something critical.”<doc-sep>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House on Monday threatened to strike back at critics of President Donald Trump’s contacts with Russia by revoking the security clearances of six former U.S. officials, drawing accusations that he was abusing his power and aiming to stifle dissent. Trump has targeted the former U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said, because they have “politicized and in some cases monetized their public service and security clearances, making baseless accusations of improper contact with Russia or being influenced by Russia.” Among them is John Brennan, who headed the CIA under Trump’s predecessor Barack Obama and was one of the most vocal critics of Trump’s performance at his summit last week with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki. After Trump gave credence to Putin’s denial of meddling in the 2016 U.S. election despite findings by the U.S. intelligence community, Brennan called the Republican president’s remarks “nothing short of treasonous.” Trump’s threat against Brennan and former U.S. officials James Comey, James Clapper, Michael Hayden, Susan Rice and Andrew McCabe represented an extraordinary politicization of the U.S. government’s security clearance process. Critics called it petty and unprecedented. “An enemies list is ugly, undemocratic and un-American. Is there no length Trump will not go to stifle opposition?” asked U.S. Representative Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee. Sanders, who said Trump is “exploring the mechanisms” to remove the security clearances, made reference to Brennan’s treason comment in explaining the president’s threat. Asked if Trump was punishing the former officials because of their criticism, Sanders said, “No, I think you are creating your own story there.” Trump came under criticism after Helsinki, including from many fellow Republicans. One of the few who publicly sided with him last week, Senator Rand Paul, said he met with Trump on Monday and asked him to revoke Brennan’s security clearance. ‘A TERRIBLE PRECEDENT’ Many former U.S. officials retain security clearances after leaving government service because they continue to advise their former agencies or because it is a condition of employment as government contractors or consultants. Stripping the clearances also would represent a public rebuke of the officials and sever a connection with the intelligence community. Slideshow ( 3 images ) “Clearances are taken away for security violations, usually after an investigation,” former deputy CIA director John McLaughlin said on Twitter. “These people do not talk classified publicly. It would be political punishment infringing on first amendment rights. It’s something Putin would do.” The U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment protects free speech. Some of targeted officials appeared to no longer have security clearances. Comey, who Trump fired as FBI director last year, has said he does not have one, his friend Benjamin Wittes said on Twitter. Comey has become a prominent critic, calling Trump “morally unfit to be president.” Clapper, who stepped down as director of national intelligence before Trump took office last year, called revoking security clearances “just a very, very petty thing to do.” “There is a formal process for doing this, but you know I guess legally the president has that prerogative,” Clapper said on CNN. “He can suspend or revoke clearances as he sees fit, and if he chooses to do it for political reasons, well I think that’s a terrible precedent. And it’s a very sad commentary. And it’s an abuse of the system.” Hayden, a former director of the CIA and National Security Agency and a retired four-star Air Force general, said he was unbowed. “I don’t go back for classified briefings,” he wrote on Twitter. “Won’t have any effect on what I say or write.”. Rice was former President Barack Obama’s national security adviser. McCabe, who as the former No. 2 FBI official was involved in the agency’s investigation of Russia’s role in the 2016 U.S. election, was fired by Attorney General Jeff Sessions in March. Slideshow ( 3 images ) A spokeswoman for McCabe, Melissa Schwartz, wrote on Twitter his security clearance was deactivated when he was terminated, according to what they were told was FBI policy. Robert Mueller, the special counsel appointed by the Justice Department after Comey’s firing, is investigating Russia’s role in the 2016 election and whether Trump’s campaign collided with Moscow. Trump has called the probe a witch hunt and denied collusion. Both the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which oversees all U.S. intelligence agencies, said they had no comment on Trump’s threat. Some Democrats criticized the proposal as a deflection tactic to change the conversation around what Trump may have agreed with Putin in their two-hour, one-on-one meeting. “This is absolute nonsense, and we shouldn’t fall for it,” said Rachel Cohen, spokeswoman for Senator Mark Warner, the senior Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee. Democratic Senator Mazie Hirono was one of the fiercest critics, writing on Twitter, “This is what totalitarianism looks like.”<doc-sep>
House Speaker Paul Ryan on Tuesday suggested that President Donald Trump's threats to revoke the security clearances of several Obama administration-era former intelligence chiefs is "trolling". "I think he's trolling people, honestly," Ryan, R-Wis., said during a news conference at the Capitol Tuesday morning. “This is something that's in the purview of the executive branch," he explained, deferring the issue to the White House. "I think some of these people have already lost their clearances. Some people keep their clearances. That's something that the executive branch deals with. It's not really in our purview.” On Monday, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders confirmed that Trump is weighing revoking the security clearances of John Brennan, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, James Comey, a former FBI director who Trump fired last year, Jim Clapper, the former Director of National Intelligence, Michael Hayden, a former Director of the National Security Agency, Susan Rice, a National Security Advisor, and Andrew McCabe, the former deputy director of the FBI. The move follows criticism of the president's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin last week in Helsinki, Finland, where Trump seemed to cast doubt on the U.S. intelligence community's conclusion that Russia meddled in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Brennan, in a tweet, said Trump's "press conference performance in Helsinki rises to & exceeds the threshold of 'high crimes & misdemeanors.' It was nothing short of treasonous. Not only were Trump’s comments imbecilic, he is wholly in the pocket of Putin. Republican Patriots: Where are you???" After the president extended an invitation for Putin to visit the White House later this fall, Ryan slammed the door on an invitation to address Congress but acknowledged he is “comfortable” with presidents having one-on-one meetings with foreign leaders. “We will certainly not be giving him an invitation to do a joint session. That's something we reserve for allies,” Ryan said. “What I think matters is the message, and if the message is stop meddling in our country, stop violating our sovereignty, then I support that, but it's the message that counts.” “I think we always can be firmer on that message,” he added.
Brighton beat Millwall 5-4 on penalties at the Denafter coming back from 2-0 down in the FA Cup quarter final. Alex Pearce and Aiden O'Brien put the hosts into a 2-0 lead with just 11 minutes remaining before Jurgen Locadia halved the deficit with two minutes remaining and Solly March's free-kick was fumbled in by Lions keeper David Martin. Glenn Murray missed the opening penalty after a goalless extra-time period, but Mahlon Romeo and Jake Cooper missed their spot-kicks as Brighton progressed to the semi-finals. Read how all the action unfolded on Sportsmail's live blog. If you are using the app, please click here to view today's live blog<doc-sep>If Brighton are looking for a good FA Cup omen, then they may at least draw some comfort from the fact they beat Manchester City 4-0 on the way to the 1983 final. Their last semi-final appearance came in the same year and Chris Hughton’s men will have to knock out City again if they are to reach the final for only the second time in their history. But, for now, they are just relieved to be in the last four after coming back from the dead to knock-out professional giant-killers Millwall. Goals from Alex Pearce and Aiden O’Brien had put Millwall on course for victory in normal time, but Brighton substitutes Jurgen Locadia and Solly March shocked the noisy home crowd by levelling the tie late on. When a last-gasp extra-time goal from Locadia was incorrectly ruled out and Glenn Murray hit the bar with the first penalty of the shootout, everything started to point to yet another Millwall shock. But Brighton refused to become the sixth Premier League club to be dumped out of the competition at the Den and goalkeeper Mat Ryan saved from Mahlon Romeo before Jake Cooper missed the 12th penalty of the shootout to send Hughton’s men through. Having witnessed one miracle of sorts on Sunday afternoon, Hughton is not discounting another against City in the semi-finals.<doc-sep>Brighton completed a remarkable comeback to win on penalties and reach the FA Cup semi-finals. The Seagulls looked to be heading out of the competition as they found themselves two down to plucky Millwall at the Den. But an injury-time error from Lions keeper David Martin gifted Brighton an equaliser, before Jake Cooper fired his spot kick over to win the shootout for the visitors. Alex Pearce had headed Millwall into the lead, before Aiden O'Brien doubled his sides advantage moments later. Brighton pulled one back through a fine strike by Jurgen Locadia, before Martin's howler. Solly March delivered a curling free kick which looped over Martin, who took his eye off the ball and helped it into the net. Extra time couldn't bring a winner, but did bring a red card for Millwall's Shane Ferguson for a deliberate stamp on Lewis Dunk. The Seagulls then missed their first penalty of the shootout as Glenn Murray smacked his effort off the crossbar. Mathew Ryan then saved from Malhan Romeo before Dunk gave Brighton the lead in sudden death prior to Cooper's miss. Chris Hughton's side now have the reward of a tie at Wembley against Manchester City in the semi-finals.<doc-sep>Every club that wins the FA Cup can point to a game, perhaps a moment, when they could have gone out of the competition. If Brighton end up hoisting the trophy, this was the game and there was more than one moment. They were seconds from elimination when substitute Solly March’s free kick deceived Millwall goalkeeper David Martin to send the match into extra-time. And when top scorer Glenn Murray hit the crossbar with the first kick in the penalty shoot-out, they looked on the way out again. But Mathew Ryan saved Millwall’s fourth kick, taken by Mahlon Romeo, and in sudden death Millwall defender Jake Cooper blasted the ball high into the Brighton end to send the Seagulls into the semi-finals for only the second time in their history. It was hard on the Championship club, who had led 2-0 with two minutes left and finished the game with ten men after the late dismissal of Shane Ferguson as fatigue and frustration took hold. They went into this match having won their previous five FA Cup home matches against Premier League clubs and Brighton, 25 league places above the London side, could have had few complaints if they had been added to the list that includes Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Watford, Leicester and Everton, who succumbed here in this season’s fourth round. Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals Show all 21 1 /21 Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1997: Chelsea 2-0 Middlesbrough A game that will go down in the history books for Roberto Di Matteo’s thunderbolt inside a minute. Ruud Gullit became the first black manager to win a major English trophy. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1993: Arsenal 2-1 Sheffield Wednesday Sheffield Wednesday’s most recent FA Cup was lost after extra time and a replay. Ian Wright and Chris Waddle took the game to extra time before Andy Linighan’s header in the final moment. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2002: Arsenal 2-0 Chelsea A closely fought match was separated by two stunning strikes to the top corner. Individual brilliance from Ray Parlour and Freddie Ljungberg. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1976: Manchester United 0-1 Southampton Finishing sixth in the second division, Southampton were massive underdogs heading into the match against third in the top flight Man United. Bobby Stokes left-footed volley was the winning goal on 83 minutes. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2017: Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea An early goal from Alexis Sanchez amid offside claims was cancelled out by Diego Costa. Just three minutes later, Gunners had their record 13th title secured by another Aaron Ramsey Wembley goal. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1980: West Ham United 1-0 Arsenal West Ham hero Trevor Brooking scored the only goal after 13 minutes in the last FA Cup Final to be won by a team outside the top flight. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1966: Everton 3-2 Sheffield Wednesday Everton reached the final without conceding a goal, but Wednesday were two up with half-an-hour to play. The Toffees became the second side ever to come from two goals down and win the final. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2014: Arsenal 3-2 Hull City (AET) Hull City were two goals up inside eight minutes against Arsenal but could not hold on. Goals from Santi Cazorla and Laurent Koscielny took the game to extra time before Aaron Ramsey stabbed home to break Hull hearts. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2016: Crystal Palace 1-2 Manchester United (AET) Alan Pardew danced on the touchline when Jason Puncheon put Palace up but Juan Mata took the game to stoppage time before Jesse Lingard thumped into the top corner, securing United’s 12th FA Cup. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1973: Leeds United 0-1 Sunderland Leeds were a dominant force in English football when second division Sunderland became the first tem outside the top flight to lift the trophy since West Brom in 1931. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1990: Crystal Palace 3-3 Manchester United (AET) In the first all-seater final at Wembley, Ian Wright and Mark Hughes bagged braces for their respective clubs in an enthralling match that resulted in a replay – won 1-0 by United. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2013: Manchester City 0-1 Wigan Athletic Ben Watson’s 91st minute header against Premier League champions from the previous year made Wigan the first ever club to win the FA Cup be relegated in the same season. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1979: Arsenal 3-2 Manchester United The ‘Five-minute Final’ embodies the sentiment that frantic finishes are a staple of the FA Cup. Arsenal threw away a two-goal lead with four minutes left and Alan Sunderland still grabbed the winner. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1989: Liverpool 3-2 Everton (AET) Five weeks after the Hillsborough disaster, Liverpool and Everton met in the FA Cup Final. A 90th minute Toffees equaliser took the fixture to extra time at 1-1 before a brace from substitute Ian Rush won the cup for Liverpool. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 1988: Liverpool 0-1 Wimbledon Wimbledon’s one and only FA Cup triumph came courtesy of a Lawrie Sanchez header. The club had only been in the Football League for 11 years when they beat the reigning English champions. Getty Images Ranking the 20 greatest FA Cup finals 2001: Arsenal 1-2 Liverpool The first FA Cup Final held at the Millennium Stadium was enthralling as Michael Owen scored two in five minutes to cancel out Freddie Ljungberg’s opener, winning the game at the death.<doc-sep>
Brighton & Hove Albion's FA Cup quarter-final tie at Millwall on Sunday afternoon will play its part in when Tottenham Hotspur's new stadium will open. Spurs' new stadium will host its first test event on March 24 - an U18s match against Southampton with a capacity of around 30,000, kicking off at 3pm. Then six days later on March 30, around 45,000 people will be allowed to enter Tottenham's new 62,062-seater stadium for a Legends match, kicking off at 5.30pm. The aim of the two test events is to gain the required safety certificates for the stadium to open fully. UEFA also wanted Tottenham to play at least one Premier League match before they can hold their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Manchester City there. That means discussions took place with both Brighton and Crystal Palace to ensure, if the safety certificates are gained, that one of those two sides will be the first Premier League side to open the stadium. What it means is that if Chris Hughton's men win their FA Cup quarter-final match at Millwall then Tottenham will play Crystal Palace on Wednesday April 3 in a midweek opener for the stadium and then Brighton at home later in month the April 23rd/24th. However, if Brighton lose their FA Cup quarter-final match today then former Spurs legend Hughton will be the first opposition manager for a senior competitive game at the new stadium on April 6 - due to the Champions League match on April 9 - and then it will be Palace who play there on April 23/24. Keep up to date with the latest Tottenham Hotspur news, features and exclusives from football.london via our free WhatsApp service. Text NEWS to 07776197989 and then add the number to your phone contacts book as spurs dot london (case sensitive, with spaces) to receive daily updates and breaking news from Alasdair Gold and the team on Spurs. Your phone number won't be shared with any other members of the group. Click here for more information on the service.
IAF Air Strike in Pakistan: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for an emergency meeting (File) IAF Air Strike in Pakistan: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for an emergency meeting (File) IAF Surgical Strike: Hours after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan asked the armed forces and the people of Pakistan to remain “prepared for all eventualities,” it summoned the Acting Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad. The Pakistani government condemned the air strikes conducted by the IAF in Balakot calling it the “violation of its territorial sovereignty” by fighter jets, PTI reported. “The Acting Foreign Secretary summoned the Indian Acting High Commissioner and strongly condemned the Indian violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the Foreign Office said in a statement. The statement came after an emergency meeting to review the situation, PTI reported. Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said India has committed “aggression” by violating the LoC and Islamabad has “right to self-defence”. “This action has been done for domestic consumption being in an election environment, putting regional peace and stability at grave risk. The claimed area of the strike is open for the world to see the facts on the ground. For this domestic and international media is being taken to the impact site. The forum concluded that India has committed uncalled for aggression to which Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing,” Dawn quoted a government statement. Read in MALAYALAM, BANGLA, TAMIL “He [Prime Minister Khan] decided to engage with global leadership to expose irresponsible Indian policy in the region,” the statement further reads. EXPLAINED | After India strike, what can be Pakistan’s options? “It has been decided that international leadership will be engaged with through the foreign office and prime minister. At the request of Pakistan, there is an OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) conflict group emergency meeting underway [in Jeddah], and Tehmina Janjua is representing Pakistan there. We will present Pakistan’s point of view at that forum,” Pakistan said in a statement. India early Tuesday morning carried out a “non-military, preemptive action” against a major terror camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot. The strike was conducted after the government received credible information about “another suicide terror attack” by JeM in various parts of the country. The JeM claimed the responsibility for the Pulwama attack in Kashmir that killed 40 CRPF officers. #India has committed uncalled aggression to which #Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing. This was told to a special meeting of the National Security Committee chaired by the Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad today. pic.twitter.com/xqgXtKkCtw — Govt of Pakistan (@pid_gov) February 26, 2019 “First, they committed aggression against Pakistan today. It is a violation of the LoC. I consider it a violation of the LoC, and Pakistan his right to give a suitable response in self-defence,” Qureshi told reporters after an “emergency meeting” with high-level officials at the Foreign Office (FO) for consultations. He also added that Pakistan had repeatedly warned the world against India’s reaction. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, right, heads an emergency meeting in Islamabad. (AP) Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, right, heads an emergency meeting in Islamabad. (AP) Asking Pakistani’s to remain calm, Qureshi said, “Nation should not be worried over the Indian act as the defenders of the country are fully prepared to respond to any misadventure.” He also added that Pakistan is a “peace-loving” nation and has “registered successes in the war on terrorism,” reported Radio Pakistan. He also briefed Khan after the meeting. Read | IAF strikes JeM camp in Balakot: Full text of India’s statement Senator Sherry Rehman, a leading opposition leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party, said that “Indian incursion” across the LOC is strategically “ill-advised and tactically pointless”. “Such moves only ratchet up tensions in a region bristling with anger. “Obvious that (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi’s election wardrums make prospects for talks collateral damage. India’s ruling party sees no other way to win the elections hence, itching for war,” Rehman said in a tweet. Meanwhile, India’s Opposition leaders congratulated the Indian Air Force on the strike. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, party leader Shashi Tharoor, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal, tweeted congratulating the armed forces for striking terror camps.<doc-sep>BALAKOT, Pakistan/NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India said its warplanes killed “a very large number” of fighters when they struck a militant training camp inside Pakistan on Tuesday, raising the risk of conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors, although Pakistan officials denied there had been casualties. Pakistan said it would respond at a time and place of its choice, with a military spokesman even alluding to its nuclear arsenal, highlighting the escalation in hostile rhetoric from both two sides since a suicide bombing in Kashmir this month. The spokesman said a command and control authority meeting, which decides over the use of nuclear weapons, had been convened for Wednesday, adding: “You all know what that means.” The air strike near Balakot, a town 50 km (30 miles) from the frontier, was the deepest cross-border raid launched by India since the last of its three wars with Pakistan in 1971 but there were competing claims about any damage caused. The Indian government, facing an election in the coming months, said the air strikes hit a training camp belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), the group that claimed a suicide car bomb attack that killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary police in Kashmir on Feb. 14. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said “a very large number” of militants were killed in the strikes in northeast Pakistan. “The existence of such training facilities, capable of training hundreds of jihadis, could not have functioned without the knowledge of the Pakistani authorities,” Gokhale said. Pakistan denies harboring JeM. A senior Indian government source said that 300 militants had been killed in the strikes and that the warplanes had ventured as far as 80 km (50 miles) inside Pakistan. But no evidence was provided to back up the claims of casualties. The government said the action was ordered as India said it had intelligence that Jaish was planning more attacks. Pakistani officials dismissed the Indian claims, saying the Indian aircraft had dropped their bombs in a wooded area, causing no damage or casualties. Villagers near the town of Balakot were shaken from their sleep by the air strikes. They said only one person was wounded in the attack and they knew of no fatalities. “We saw fallen trees and one damaged house, and four craters where the bombs had fallen,” said Mohammad Ajmal, a 25-year-old who visited the site. A resident, who did not want to give his name, said there was a nearby madrasa Islamic college run by Jaish, though most villagers were guarded in talking about any militant neighbors. JeM is a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al Qaeda and has been on a U.N. terrorist list since 2001. In December 2001, Jaish fighters, along with members of another Pakistan-based militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba, attacked India’s parliament, which almost led to a fourth war. HOSPITALS ON ALERT There has been mounting impatience in India to avenge the Feb. 14 attack, which was the most deadly seen in Kashmir during an insurgency that has lasted three decades, and as news of the raid broke, celebrations erupted across the country. “I want to assure you our country is in safe hands,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to cheers at a rally in western India hours after the raid. “I won’t let the country down.” Slideshow ( 4 images ) Pakistan’s top civilian and military leaders rejected India’s comments that it had struck a “terrorist camp” inside Pakistan, warning that they would retaliate. Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC), comprising top officials including Prime Minister Imran Khan and army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, said Khan would “engage with global leadership to expose irresponsible Indian policy”. It also warned that “Pakistan shall respond at the time and place of its choosing” to Indian aggression. China, Pakistan’s long-time ally, and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged both countries to exercise restraint. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement issued in Washington that he had talked to Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi separately and encouraged both countries to “exercise restraint ... and avoid further military activity.” Slideshow ( 4 images ) He said he had underscored to Qureshi “the urgency of Pakistan taking meaningful action against terrorist groups operating on its soil.” Swaraj said she had spoken to Pompeo and Indian diplomats had met foreign ambassadors to assure them no escalation was planned. But as fears grew that the conflict could escalate, hospitals in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province were ordered to set a quarter of beds aside for “a national cause”, officials said. “We put all hospitals in the province on high alert due to the present situation on the border with India and issued directives to all heads of the hospitals to be prepared for any sort of emergency,” provincial secretary health Dr Farooq Jameel told Reuters. Indian and Pakistan troops exchanged gunfire along several sectors of their contested border in Kashmir later on Tuesday and local officials on the Pakistani side said at least four people had been killed and seven wounded. Giving the Pakistan military’s account of the Indian incursion, spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said Pakistani aircraft were patrolling and identified Indian jets on the Indian side of the border near Okara and Lahore in Punjab as well as Muzaffarabad where they crossed and were engaged. They left Pakistani airspace after only four minutes. He denied the incursion had caused any damage, saying there was no debris, “not even a single brick” and no casualties. “You have proved you are not a democracy, you have chosen the path of war,” he said, addressing his remarks to India.<doc-sep>Both India and Pakistan claim all of Muslim-majority Kashmir, but control only parts of it. The nuclear-armed nations have fought three wars and a limited conflict since independence from Britain in 1947 - and all but one were over Kashmir.<doc-sep>Imran Khan had asked the armed forces and the people of Pakistan to be prepared for "all eventualities." Highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting with top officials Amid rising tension, many airports in north India shut down Pakistan has also stopped flights from Islamabad and Lahore In an escalation of hostilities a day after Indian Air Force Jets crossed the Line of Control and struck a terror training camp, Pakistan claimed "strikes across Line of Control from within Pakistani airspace". There were reports of Pakistani fighter jets violating Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri sectors. A Pakistani F-16 aircraft crashed on its territory, in the Lam Valley area along the Line of Control. Prime Minister Narendra Modi left an event early and met with top officials including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Defence and Foreign Secretaries and intelligence officials. Amid rising tension, India will avoid the Pakistani airspace, said officials. Eight airports in north India, including Amritsar, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Jammu, Srinagar and Leh, were declared shut by the Airports Authority of India, but the order was withdrawn within hours. Pakistan has stopped flights from Islamabad and Lahore. The area near the Line of Control has been on high alert amid warnings of retaliation by Islamabad after India's fighter jets destroyed a terror camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot, around 80 km from the Line of Control. India said it was a "non-military and pre-emptive" strike based on credible inputs that Jaish was training suicide bombers for more attacks like Pulwama. Over 40 soldiers were killed on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide bomber attacked a security convoy. In a press release titled "Pakistani Strikes Back", Islamabad said on its strike claim: "This was not retaliation to continued Indian belligerence. Pakistan has therefore, taken strikes at non-military target, avoiding human loss and collateral damage. Sole purpose being to demonstrate our right, will and capability for self defence. We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced into that paradigm. That is why we undertook the action with clear warning and in broad daylight." Amid the worst escalation between the two countries in decades, several countries have urged restraint. This morning, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said during a trilateral meeting in China that India wants to avoid any "further escalation of the situation". "The limited objective of that pre-emptive strike was to act decisively against the terrorist infrastructure of Jaish-e-Mohammed in order to pre-empt another terror attack in India," Sushma Swaraj said in Wuzhen. "India does not wish to see further escalation of this situation. India will continue to act with responsibility and restraint," she stated.<doc-sep>
Military tensions between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan have sharply escalated after an airstrike across the Pakistani border prompted an angry vow of retribution. Late on Tuesday, India’s foreign secretary claimed the country’s air force had launched strikes against a militant camp in Pakistani territory, with an Indian government source saying 300 militants had been killed. Pakistan has denied any casualties, but said it will act “at the time and place of its choosing” in response to the incursion. India said the airstrikes hit a training camp used by Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), the group that claimed credit for a suicide car bomb attack killed at least 40 Indian paramilitary police in Kashmir on February 14. The air strike was ordered as India said it had intelligence that JeM was planning more attacks. “In the face of imminent danger, a pre-emptive strike became absolutely necessary,” Vijay Gokhale, India’s top diplomat, said. “The existence of such training facilities, capable of training hundreds of jihadis could not have functioned without the knowledge of the Pakistani authorities.” Breaking: Delhi, Mumbai and five other cities have been put on the "highest alert" for the next 72 hours in anticipation of possible terror attacks in the region by militant groups. (Via Times of India) — PM Breaking News (@PMBreakingNews) February 27, 2019 Pakistan denies harbouring JeM, a primarily anti-India group that forged ties with al-Qaeda and has been on a UN terror list since 2001. In December 2001, Jaish fighters, along with members of another Pakistan-based militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba, attacked India’s parliament. That almost led the two countries to go to war for a fourth time. Mr Gokhale said “a very large number” of militants were killed in the strike on a training base in Balakot, a town in a remote valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, but did not provide a precise figure for the casualties. The camp commander was Maulana Yusuf Azhar, a brother-in-law of JeM leader Masood Azhar, Mr Gokhale said. Pakistan downplayed the severity of airstrike, saying its own warplanes had chased off the Indian aircraft, which had released their “payload” in a forested area, causing no casualties and no serious material damage. Pakistani military spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor said on Twitter “facing timely and effective response from Pakistan Air Force”, the Indian aircraft “released payload in haste, while escaping, which fell near Balakot. No casualties or damage”. Payload of hastily escaping Indian aircrafts fell in open. pic.twitter.com/8drYtNGMsm — Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor (@OfficialDGISPR) February 26, 2019 A meeting of Pakistan’s National Security Committee, which includes Prime Minister Imran Khan, later warned that Pakistan would “respond at the time and place of its choosing”. Analysts have alleged Pakistani militants have their training camps in the area, although Pakistan has always denied the presence of any such camps. Australia’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne urged Pakistan to take action against extremist groups, including JEM and Lashkar-e-Taiba. “It can no longer allow extremist groups the legal and physical space to operate from its territory,” Senator Payne said on Tuesday night. She also echoed calls from the European Union and China for calm in the region. “Australia urges both sides to exercise restraint, avoid any action which would endanger peace and security in the region, and engage in dialogue to ensure that these issues are resolved peacefully,” she said. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who faces a tight election in coming months, has vowed a strong response to the February 14 attack, the deadliest single assault on Indian forces in 30 years of insurgency in Jammu & Kashmir, India’s only Muslim-majority state. -with AAP
Lest we forget about large sedans in our lust for crossovers, the updated 2019 Dodge Charger reminds us the segment is still kicking. Although power hasn't changed, the sedan receives performance upgrades and cosmetic enhancements to keep it fresh. See all 11 photos See all 11 photos As we already knew, higher-performing versions of the 2019 Charger receive a new grille. This grille, affixed to the R/T Scat Pack and Hellcat, has dual air inlets. The two models also receive standard Launch Assist, which detects driveline-damaging wheel hop at launch, and in milliseconds, modifies the engine torque to regain grip. Newly standard line lock is for perfect burnouts. Taking a page from the Challenger SRT Demon, the Charger SRT Hellcat gets an After-Run Chiller as well as Torque Reserve. The hotted-up model also receives new instrument badging as well as a host of new options, including Brass Monkey 20-inch forged wheels, a Satin Black hood, and an Alcantara package that brings the suede-like material to the seats and steering wheel. On the Charger R/T Scat Pack, buyers can now opt for a Bilstein adaptive damping suspension with Auto, Sport, and Track modes. New exterior color options are available, and there's a new Launch Control switch on the dash. See all 11 photos See all 11 photos See all 11 photos See all 11 photos Less powerful Chargers receive a host of updates, too. The base SXT is now available with all-wheel drive, and there is a new GT rear- drive model. On the GT and R/T, buyers receive the performance hood, fascia, side sills, and spoiler from higher models. The two trims also receive a standard performance suspension, improved steering, Dodge Performance Pages with the 8.4-inch Uconnect screen, performance bolstered seats, and 20-inch Satin Carbon wheels and Black Noise wheel options. Top speed has increased to 130 mph for the GT and 150 mph for the R/T. Rounding out the updates, a new cold weather package (heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and heated mirrors on the SXT) is offered on the SXT, SXT AWD, GT, and R/T models. You can also get Houndstooth cloth performance seats, which are standard on the GT, R/T, and Scat Pack models. A Houndstooth seating option is available on the SXT and SXT AWD. Models equipped with leather receive new stitching on the dash and doors. As before, the Charger comes available with many different engines ranging from the base 292-hp V-6 to the roaring 707-hp Hellcat V-8. See all 11 photos See all 11 photos<doc-sep>For 2019 Dodge repositions the Charger lineup with a new SXT all-wheel drive model along with a Charger GT rear-wheel-drive performance model, powered by the 3.6-liter 300-horsepower Pentastar V-6 which delivers up to 30 mpg on the highway. Performance is on the agenda for the Charger GT and R/T models which receive race-bred chassis upgrades along with performance-focused exterior modifications that include a performance hood with functional air intakes, restyled fascia, sculpted side sills, and a decklid spoiler. On the inside, the seats get new trim that improves an already outstanding interior. But for most Mopar Muscle readers, greatest interest lies with the R/T Scat Pack and the SRT Hellcat models, the world's best value four-door sedan capable of 200 mph, New standard equipment on both models includes new performance grilles and a new Launch Control switch on the R/T Scat Pack model. On the 202 mph-capable SRT Charger Hellcat, new standard equipment includes Line Lock, Torque Reverse, and an After-Run Chiller. With its 470-horsepower 392 V-8, the 2019 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack, still based priced at under $40,000, represents the most bang for the buck in the entire muscle car universe. Equipped with popular options like the easy-to-use 8.4 uConnect infotainment/navigation system, distance sensing speed control, and 20-inch wheels, it's still possible to drive off from dealers spending less than $50,000. The interior features new instrument panel badging, a Satin Black painted hood option, available Brass Monkey 20-inch forged wheels, and an Alcantara interior package are also new to Charger SRT Hellcat for the 2019 model year. Dealer orders for the 2019 Dodge Charger open in late June 2018 and vehicles are scheduled to arrive in Dodge dealerships in the third quarter of 2018. More details follow in the official Dodge press release following the image gallery. June 28, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Dodge//SRT continues to run at full throttle in the North American large sedan segment, revamping the entire Charger lineup for 2019. As America's only four-door muscle car and the sales leader in the segment five years running, Dodge continues to charge ahead of its competition with upgrades both inside and out. New for 2019, Dodge is repositioning the Charger lineup into six distinct, attitude-infused models that offer a range of performance and powertrain options for every modern muscle-car customer. The lineup ranges from the 707-horsepower Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan in the world to the efficient V-6 power of the new Charger GT RWD performance model and the all-wheel-drive capability of the new SXT AWD model. "Despite a shift toward utility vehicles in the United States over the past decade, the Dodge Charger and Challenger continue to buck the trend," said Steve Beahm, Head of Passenger Car Brands, Dodge//SRT, Chrysler and FIAT FCA North America. "Charger and Challenger retail sales have increased 70 percent since 2008, and since the launch of Scat Pack in August 2014, high-performance model sales increased from 4 percent to more than 25 percent. Charger is on track to lead the large car segment in the United States for the fifth straight year in 2018, and we intend to keep that string alive by updating the product to deliver the performance and capability that our customers demand." Dealer orders for the 2019 Dodge Charger open in late June 2018 and vehicles are scheduled to arrive in Dodge dealerships in the third quarter of 2018. Charger SRT Hellcat See all 11 photos See all 11 photos The 2019 Charger SRT Hellcat remains the quickest, fastest and most powerful sedan in the world with the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 that delivers 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to the quick-shifting TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. See all 11 photos See all 11 photos New for 2019, the Charger SRT Hellcat features a new performance grille with dual inlets that feed cooler, outside air into the engine compartment. Bolstering the performance is the addition of four race-inspired technologies that come standard on Hellcat, including: Launch Assist, which uses wheel speed sensors to watch for driveline-damaging wheel hop at launch and, in milliseconds, modifies the engine torque to regain full grip Line Lock, which engages the front brakes to hold the Charger SRT Hellcat stationary, but leaves the rear wheels free for a burnout to heat up and clean the rear tires After-Run Chiller, which keeps cooling the supercharger/charge air cooler after the engine is shut off Torque Reserve, which closes a bypass valve to prefill the supercharger and manages fuel flow and spark advance to balance engine rpm and torque, generates a reserve of torque that is delivered upon acceleration from a standing stop See all 11 photos See all 11 photos New instrument panel badging, a Satin Black painted hood option, available Brass Monkey 20-inch forged wheels and an Alcantara interior package are also new to Charger SRT Hellcat for the 2019 model year. Charger R/T Scat Pack The 2019 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack is the most muscle for the dollar, powered by the naturally aspirated 392 HEMI V-8, it delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, priced less than $40,000. New for 2019, Launch Assist and Line Lock are now standard features on the R/T Scat Pack for optimum performance at launch from a standstill. A new switch on the dashboard provides quick access to initialize Launch Control, which coordinates the engine, transmission, driveline and suspension for an optimal launch and consistent straight-line acceleration. R/T Scat Pack features the same new performance grille with dual air inlets as the SRT Hellcat and adds a new Scat Pack bee badge on the decklid, replacing the R/T badge. New Dark Dub Plate instrument panel and Houndstooth cloth performance seat with an added Scat Pack bee logo are also standard. Dual Carbon stripes, a Satin Black-painted hood and Bilstein three-mode Adaptive Damping Suspension are added to the available options. Charger R/T<doc-sep>The more lively Scat Pack and Hellcat Chargers will get more significant upgrades including a line-lock system, revised launch control, and dual cold air ducts in their grills. The Hellcat will receive an After-Run Chiller that continues to cool the Hemi's supercharger after the engine has been shut off, and it will also have a "torque reserve" mode that pre-loads the supercharger for quicker acceleration off the line. Power figures for the Scat Pack (485 horsepower, 475 pound-feet of torque) and Hellcat (707 hp, 650 pound-feet) variants remain unchanged from the outgoing model year. New interior options will also be offered across the lineup, including a cold weather package with heated cloth seats. Quotable: In Dodge's press release, FCA Representative Steve Beahm said, "Despite a shift toward utility vehicles in the United States over the past decade, the Dodge Charger and Challenger continue to buck the trend. Charger and Challenger retail sales have increased 70 percent since 2008, and since the launch of Scat Pack in August 2014, high-performance model sales increased from four percent to more than 25 percent. Charger is on track to lead the large car segment in the United States for the fifth straight year in 2018, and we intend to keep that string alive by updating the product to deliver the performance and capability that our customers demand.” What You Need to Know: While Fiat Chrysler hasn't reinvented the now 12-year-old sedan, it's added a suite of small upgrades that should benefit the performance-minded customer. Dodge will be taking orders for its new Charger at the end of June, and they will be shipped out to dealers in Q3 2018. Base MSRP starts at around $29,000 while Hellcat pricing is expected to go up slightly from its current $67,995 entry point.<doc-sep>The 2019 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat. Image : FCA The street-legal dragster of a Dodge Challenger SRT Demon may be dead, but its tricks sure aren’t. The 2019 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is here, with the same 707 horsepower as it had before but some new features inspired by the Demon. It also comes with the option of a satin-black hood, for looks. Advertisement The 2019 Charger Hellcat isn’t a drastic change in looks from the 2018 model year, as we could tell even in the teaser photos from May. The big difference was the addition of those two giant air intakes on the nose, which we thought could be extra cooling for a more powerful engine. Alas, not everything is meant to be, and the Charger Hellcat will stay at 707 HP, 650 lb-ft of torque and will come with an eight-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters. Image : FCA (This also might give us permission to make educated guesses on power for the yet-to-debut Challenger Hellcat, since its teaser photos had big new intakes, too.) But even though the power figure on this Hellcat’s 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 is staying the same, as if we actually needed more power from a vehicle that comes with a key to tone down its existing 707 HP, it does have some cool new features. The Hellcat will get the Demon’s After-Run Chiller and Torque Reserve features, with the chiller continuing to cool the supercharger and charge air cooler after the engine turns off. The Torque Reserve, as its name suggests, creates a reserve of torque for use upon acceleration from a standstill. Image : FCA Advertisement There are also the Launch Assist and Line Lock features, with the Launch Assist there to help prevent wheel hop and any subsequent damage upon launching the car and the Line Lock there to, well, keep the car in place while you’re doing a burnout with the rear wheels. All of the other new additions to the car are appearance things, like the option to get the hood painted in satin black, a new wheel selection and an Alcantara package for the interior. Advertisement Image : FCA Fiat Chrysler Automobiles didn’t mention any price figures in its announcement of the car, but did say the 2019 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack will give a buyer 485 HP and 475 lb.-ft. of torque for under $40,000. Details on the 2019 versions of the million—alright, alright, six—other Charger trims can be read here. Advertisement Sedans aren’t dead yet, at least. Holler when your crossover can do all of this. Update, 12:22 p.m. The 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye and Hellcat are out. The Hellcat Redeye will get 797 HP, and the Hellcat will get 717 HP—up from the typical 707 HP of the Hellcat name.<doc-sep>
Good news for fans of all things rear-wheel-drive and powerful: the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat has been refreshed for the 2019 model year -- as we'd seen in a teaser photo -- and it's got even more features to help you go as fast as possible. The visual upgrade for the SRT Hellcat is not exactly transformative, but you will spot a new grille with two new air inlets that are designed to help funnel cool air to the big 6.2-liter supercharged V8 (as before, it makes 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque). A satin-black hood is now an option, as are "Brass Monkey" 20-inch wheels and an Alcantara interior package. The new grille design is also applied to the Charger R/T Scat Pack, which has a 485-hp 6.4-liter V8 engine. Dodge What's even more exciting, though, is that the 2019 Charger Hellcat gets several new performance tricks learned from its rambunctious cousin, the Challenger SRT Demon. Those include an After-Run Chiller, which keeps pumping coolant through the charger air cooler to bring down supercharger temperatures and thus increase horsepower, and Torque Reserve, which works with the launch control to precharge the supercharger by closing its bypass valve and deliberately misfiring the engine. The 2019 Charger Hellcat also adds electronic line lock, which locks the front brakes. That's great, because heretofore it was so very difficult to do a burnout in a 707-hp, rear-wheel-drive car. Line lock is also offered on the Demon, as well as cars like the Ford Mustang. In addition, Launch Assist is an enhancement to the car's launch and traction controls that aims to prevent axle hop by proactively adjusting engine output. The charger R/T Scat Pack also adds line lock and Launch Assist as standard. The rest of the Dodge Charger lineup continues with fewer changes for 2019, albeit with a handful of minor trim and equipment updates. The Charger R/T continues to use a 5.7-liter V8 with 370 horsepower, the GT has a 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and the base Charger SXT continues with a 292-horsepower version of that engine. There is, however, one slight change to the lineup: all-wheel-drive will now be offered only on the Charger SXT, whereas previously it was exclusive to the GT. Order books for the 2019 Dodge Charger are open now, with the first cars scheduled to hit showrooms in the third quarter of this year.
This obfuscation is made possible by the fact that there are two towns by the name of Balakot - one just across the LoC from the Indian town of Poonch, and the other deep inside Pakistan in its Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The BBC reports that the strikes were in the latter, where local villagers say they heard explosions.<doc-sep>Both India and Pakistan claim all of Muslim-majority Kashmir, but control only parts of it. The nuclear-armed nations have fought three wars and a limited conflict since independence from Britain in 1947 - and all but one were over Kashmir.<doc-sep>Imran Khan had asked the armed forces and the people of Pakistan to be prepared for "all eventualities." Highlights Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting with top officials Amid rising tension, many airports in north India shut down Pakistan has also stopped flights from Islamabad and Lahore In an escalation of hostilities a day after Indian Air Force Jets crossed the Line of Control and struck a terror training camp, Pakistan claimed "strikes across Line of Control from within Pakistani airspace". There were reports of Pakistani fighter jets violating Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri sectors. A Pakistani F-16 aircraft crashed on its territory, in the Lam Valley area along the Line of Control. Prime Minister Narendra Modi left an event early and met with top officials including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Defence and Foreign Secretaries and intelligence officials. Amid rising tension, India will avoid the Pakistani airspace, said officials. Eight airports in north India, including Amritsar, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Jammu, Srinagar and Leh, were declared shut by the Airports Authority of India, but the order was withdrawn within hours. Pakistan has stopped flights from Islamabad and Lahore. The area near the Line of Control has been on high alert amid warnings of retaliation by Islamabad after India's fighter jets destroyed a terror camp of the Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot, around 80 km from the Line of Control. India said it was a "non-military and pre-emptive" strike based on credible inputs that Jaish was training suicide bombers for more attacks like Pulwama. Over 40 soldiers were killed on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide bomber attacked a security convoy. In a press release titled "Pakistani Strikes Back", Islamabad said on its strike claim: "This was not retaliation to continued Indian belligerence. Pakistan has therefore, taken strikes at non-military target, avoiding human loss and collateral damage. Sole purpose being to demonstrate our right, will and capability for self defence. We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced into that paradigm. That is why we undertook the action with clear warning and in broad daylight." Amid the worst escalation between the two countries in decades, several countries have urged restraint. This morning, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said during a trilateral meeting in China that India wants to avoid any "further escalation of the situation". "The limited objective of that pre-emptive strike was to act decisively against the terrorist infrastructure of Jaish-e-Mohammed in order to pre-empt another terror attack in India," Sushma Swaraj said in Wuzhen. "India does not wish to see further escalation of this situation. India will continue to act with responsibility and restraint," she stated.<doc-sep>The Cross Border terror attack in Pulwama was a reality. The Balakot Operation was India’s Anti- Terror preemptive… https://t.co/uOD2rgn3Z4 — Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) 1551284990000 Mr. Jaitley, It’s BJP & its leadership who require real introspection. Entire opposition stood as one backing the… https://t.co/hbsURC96eZ — Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) 1551286345000 Opposition lauds IAF strikes, condemns politicisation of strike by ruling party NEW DELHI: The joint statement of 21 opposition parties expressing anguish over what they alleged was “blatant politicisation” by the Modi government of the sacrifices of the armed forces has found an echo in Pakistan. During these times of heightened tensions between the two countries, the current political debate in India on the fallout of the air strikes is also being used in Pakistan as part of the propaganda war.On Wednesday, the 21 opposition parties met in Parliament Library to discuss the Pulwama attack on a convoy of CRPF personnel on February 14 and its aftermath. They issued a joint statement after the meeting and which was also read out to the media by Congress president Rahul Gandhi .The statement condemned the “dastardly” Pulwama terror attack by “Pakistan-sponsored” terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). The leaders paid homage to the soldiers killed in the attack and expressed solidarity with the armed forces.However, they also expressed anguish over what they alleged was “blatant politicisation” of the sacrifices of armed forces. Expressing concern over the prevailing security situation in the country, the statement said, “Anguished over blatant politicisation of sacrifices of armed forces by the ruling party. Urge the government to take the nation into confidence on all measures to protect India’s sovereignty, unity and integrity.”“National security must transcend narrow political considerations,” the joint statement added.It also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has “regrettably” not convened an all-party meeting as per established practice.This statement was immediately used by the Pakistan government to allege that India was divided over security issues.In a television interview, Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi alleged that for the first time the Indian opposition parties have openly have exposed the intentions of the ruling party.“What will we (in Pakistan) gain from by doing this? But India was bent upon drawing political mileage out of the Pulwama incident. The joint communique which the (Indian) opposition parties have issued says the ruling BJP government is using Pulwama to meet its own political ends,” Qureshi said.Even as Pakistan used the opposition statement for its own propaganda, Finance minister Arun Jaitley took exception to the opposition’s charge and also the manner in which it was being misused in Pakistan. He charged that the opposition’s “ill-advised” statement was being used by Pakistan to bolster its case.In three tweets, he said, “The cross-border terror attack in Pulwama was a reality. The Balakot Operation was India’s anti-terror preemptive strike to defend its sovereignty… The whole nation has spoken in one voice. Why, then is India’s opposition alleging that the government is politicising our anti-terror operations?”Making an appeal to India’s opposition, Jaitley said, “Let the country speak in one voice. Please introspect. Your ill-advised statement is being used by Pakistan to bolster its case.”However, Congress’s chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala quickly issued a riposte. In a tweet, he said, “Mr Jaitley, It’s BJP & its leadership who require real introspection. The entire opposition stood as one backing the armed forces and the government. Still, (BJP president) Amit Shah and the entire BJP resorted to credit-seeking for the sacrifice of our martyrs and indulged in blaming the Congress provocatively.”<doc-sep>
BJP leaders criticised Mamata Banerjee for "doubting the success of Air Force's strikes. BJP National General secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya hit out at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today for "doubting" success of the Indian Air Force strike targeting Jaish-e-Mohammed's terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot. "It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics; a chief minister doubts our armed forces. The entire nation stands by them. We condemn such statements," he said in Kolkata. Targeting Ms Banerjee, state BJP president Dilip Ghosh said it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike. "Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Mr Ghosh said. Yesterday, Ms Banerjee had said the nation has a right to know what actually happened after the IAF's strike since foreign media reported that not much damage had been done. "We have the right to know. The people want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?" she had asked. Mr Vijayvargiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from Pakistan was Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic victory. "For the last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been trying to talk to our prime minister but they said they have to release our pilot first," he said. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured on Wednesday after India and Pakistan's engaged in an air battle following Pakistan's attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes.
Three Dolphins players either knelt, or raised a fist during the playing of the national anthem on Thursday night. Dolphins wide receiver Kenny Stills and newly acquired receiver Albert Wilson knelt during the anthem, while defensive end Robert Quinn raised his fist, Pro Football Talk reported. In July, the NFL decided to suspend its new anthem policy which required all players on the field to stand for the national anthem. Instead, the league opted to join with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) to come up with a joint policy. However, three weeks into those negotiations, a resolution has still not been produced and player protests have continued. The league and the NFLPA have just over a month to form a new policy before the start of the regular season. Follow Dylan Gwinn on Twitter @themightygwinn<doc-sep>In his continued attack on the NFL’s protest movement, Donald Trump ripped players who took a knee during the national anthem in Thursday night’s preseason games. That includes Miami Dolphins receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson, who did so at Hard Rock Stadium before their exhibition against the Buccaneers. Trump mocked their "outrage" and accused players of protesting "something most of them are unable to define" before calling for the league to suspend them. "The NFL players are at it again - taking a knee when they should be standing proudly for the National Anthem," he wrote this morning. "Numerous players, from different teams, wanted to show their ‘outrage’ at something that most of them are unable to define. They make a fortune doing what they love...... "....Be happy, be cool! A football game, that fans are paying soooo much money to watch and enjoy, is no place to protest. Most of that money goes to the players anyway. Find another way to protest. Stand proudly for your National Anthem or be Suspended Without Pay!" It's a familiar opinion from Trump, who last year referred to any protesting player as a "son of a bitch" that should be kicked out of the league. Stills began kneeling in 2016, along with other Dolphins players, and he had decided to stop doing it at the beginning of last season before Trump’s comments in September. Wilson kneeled at least once while playing for Kansas City last year. Miami defensive end Robert Quinn also demonstrated during the national anthem by raising his right fist, though he specified after the game he considers it a call for unity rather than a protest. He also shook his head during the song’s line referring to America as "the land of the free." "The message that needs to be spread is peace, love and happiness," Quinn said. "Until people start understanding peace, love and happiness, we’re just gonna be in a negative world... As a teammate and a play on this Dolphins team, I don’t want to be a distraction, but at the same time, as a black man in this world, I’ve got an obligation to raise awareness to the world, and that’s to bring heaven here on earth." Quinn, Stills and Wilson each indicated they will continue to demonstrate the rest of the season. That’s where the issue could eventually get more complicated with the NFL. The league owners enacted a policy this offseason that bars players from kneeling and requires they stay out of sight if they refuse to stand for the national anthem. The NFL reiterated those rules in a statement Thursday night, but it is currently not enforcing penalties for violations while it discusses possible alternatives with the NFLPA. If the original policy is upheld, teams can be fined by the league when players kneel, and those teams can respond by punishing the players. Dolphins coach Adam Gase has said his preference is to stay out of this issue and focus fully on football. He did not address the anthem with his players prior to the game. "I didn’t talk to him beforehand, but after the fact, we spoke," Stills said. "He supports what I’m doing." All three players did extended media availability after the game to explain their stances, expressing opposition to racial inequality in America. Stills took it a step further by inviting those who disagree with him to engage in conversation. "If you misinterpret what we’re doing, reach out to me," he said. "Look at my website, look at my Twitter and all my social media platforms. You’ll get a better idea why we’re doing what we’re doing and maybe you’ll come to the other side and start supporting us." The Dolphins’ demonstration was not coordinated among the three players, who are in their first year playing together. They are united in their desire for equality, though, and by their persistence. None of them are likely to be deterred by Trump’s latest barbs. "You get a lot of backlash for doing it," Wilson said. "Nobody wants to bring that kind of negative attention to themselves, but when you have a platform like this and you’re able to speak on certain situations that can cause an effect, you want to do that." [Photos from the Dolphins' preseason opener against Tampa Bay] [Everything is lining up for Dolphins DE Robert Quinn to make a big comeback] [National anthem protests continue for Miami Dolphins in 2018] [Jameis Winston remains a puzzle for the Buccaneers] Check out The Palm Beach Post's Miami Dolphins page on Facebook.<doc-sep>Miami’s Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson knelt during the preseason opener. (AP) Miami Dolphins wide receivers Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson knelt during the national anthem on Thursday night in the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Not to mention, Dolphins defensive end Robert Quinn raised his right fist. The actions to protest social injustices were the first of the preseason in the NFL. And, according to Mark Maske of The Washington Post, Philadelphia Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins and cornerback DeVante Bausby also raised fists ahead of their preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Dolphins' Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson were kneeling during national anthem before tonight's games. Eagles' Malcolm Jenkins and De'Vante Bausby each raised a fist. — MarkMaske (@MarkMaske) August 9, 2018 It has been nearly two years since former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick first knelt during the anthem in protest of social injustices, sparking a movement among players like Stills and Wilson. Earlier this spring, the NFL imposed a rule requiring players to stand for the anthem. Dolphins defensive end Robert Quinn (94) raises his right fist during the singing of the national anthem on Thursday. (AP) The league has since put the rule on hold. The NFL released a statement on the protests shortly after on Thursday night, too, reiterating that no discipline can be enforced for violating the anthem policy while it continues discussions with the NFLPA. NFL statement on at least two players, #Dolphins WRs Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson, kneeling during the national anthem tonight. No clubs can implement discipline while talks with union continue. pic.twitter.com/dx22XiNYhN — Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 10, 2018 “The NFL has been engaged in constructive discussions with the NFL Players Association regarding the anthem and issues of equality and social justice that are of concern to many Americans,” the statement read. “While those discussions continue, the NFL has agreed to delay implementing or enforcing any club work rules that could result in players being disciplined for their conduct during the performance of the anthem. Story continues “Meanwhile, there has been no change in the NFL’s policy regarding the national anthem. The anthem will continue to be played before every game, and all player and non-player personnel on the field at the time are expected to stand during the presentation of the flag and performance of the anthem. Personnel who do not wish to do so can choose to remain in the locker room. “We remain committed to working with the players to identify solutions and to continue making progress on important social issue affecting our communities.” Stills was awarded the Dolphins’ community service awards the past two years. He participates in a number of youth organizations and was a team captain last year. He was asked by reporters earlier this spring whether he would kneel. “When the time comes where I have to make a decision,” Stills told the Palm Beach Post, “I’ll make a decision.” Now, it is clear he has. More from Yahoo Sports: • Dan Wetzel: Don’t let NCAA fool you with its rule changes • LeBron shows off Lakers uniform while giving Kobe a shoe shoutout • Ump pulls giant bug out of ear during MLB game • Terez Paylor: Bears bring ‘fun-n-gun’ offense to NFL<doc-sep>
Week 1 of the NFL preseason got underway Thursday night and of the 12 games, four games included some form of player protest during the national anthem. In Philadelphia, Malcolm Jenkins and De'Vante Bausby raised their first before their game against the Steelers; the Jaguars' Telvin Smith, Jalen Ramsey, Leonard Fournette and T.J. Yeldon waited in the tunnel before facing the Saints; the Seahawks' Quinton Jefferson, Branden Jackson and Duane Brown did the same before kickoff against the Colts. The Dolphins' Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson were the only players to kneel during the anthem, while teammate Robert Quinn raised his fist before facing the Buccaneers. President Donald Trump wasted little time blasting the players, something he has done repeatedly since last September. "Quite frankly, guys in our league don't like being told what to do, what they can and can't do," Jenkins told Philly.com. "We don't have this type of policies for the other causes we support, whether it be our 'Salute to Service,' or breast cancer awareness, or anything else. It's just when you start talking about black folks, quite frankly. It's disheartening, but we'll continue to be creative." Meanwhile, Stills said he and Wilson didn't coordinate their decision to kneel. "It just happened that way," Stills said, adding that he had the support of coach Adam Gase. "When I'm on a knee, most of the time I'm praying, and thank God for having Albert next to me. Being a part of this protest hasn't been easy. I thought I was going to be by myself out there. Today I had an angel with me with Albert being out there. I'm grateful he sees what's happening, and he wants to do something about it as well." Stills expects to protest during the regular season, and it would take "a lot" for him to stop. "A good first step as a league would be acknowledging what they're doing to Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid," Stills said, via USAToday.com's Lindsay Jones. "You can't say as a league you support the players and the protests, but blackball the players that initially started the protests." Colin Kaepernick, who in August 2016 was the first player to kneel during the anthem to protest social injustice and was out of the league all last season, tweeted his support of Stills on Thursday. The latest protests come after the league issued a controversial new anthem policy in late May that was widely criticized. The policy was shelved in late July so the NFL and NFLPA could work jointly on a solution. The NFL said in a statement following Thursday night's protest that no players would be punished. "The NFL has engaged in constructive discussions with the NFL Players Association regarding the anthem and issues of equality and social justice that are of concern to many Americans," the statement read. "While those discussions continue, the NFL has agreed to delay implementing or enforcing any club work rules that could result in players being disciplined for their conduct during the performance of the anthem. "Meanwhile, there has been no change in the NFL's policy regarding the national anthem. The anthem will continue to be played before every game, and all player and non-player personnel on the field at that time are expected to stand during the presentation of the flag and performance of the anthem. Personnel who do not wish to do can choose to remain in the locker room."
Celebrity Beauty Emma Corrin Got Curtain Bangs — & The New Look Is So ’90s The Crown‘s Emma Corrin has taken inspiration from the boy bands of the ’90s, showing off a new, bleached-blonde haircut with long curtain bang<doc-sep>(CNN) — The next time you see Lauren London, she wants you to remember the love of her life, Nipsey Hussle. Hours after the rapper’s public memorial service on Thursday, the actress revealed her new tattoo to honor Nipsey. “Real Love Never Dies,” London said on Instagram. “When you see me, you will always see him #LoveYouHussle #TMC.” Nipsey was gunned down March 31 in Los Angeles near a clothing store he owned. He was known not only for his music but for the contributions he made to his community. The couple had been been together for more than five years and had one of hip hop’s most romantic fairytale love stories. London had friends and family by her side at the funeral as she spoke about Kross Asghedom, the young son she and Nipsey shared. “My pain is for my 2-year-old who probably won’t remember how much his dad loved him,” London said with tears in her eyes.<doc-sep>Lauren London is saying a painful goodbye to Nipsey Hussle. Just one day after the late rapper’s “celebration of life” memorial service, his girlfriend inked Hussle’s face on her arm. “Real love never dies. When you see me you will always see him,” she captioned a photo of a new tattoo, a large portrait of his face with the words “God will rise” underneath — the same phrase the rapper had tattooed next to his right eye. The actress, 34, spoke at the rapper’s funeral at LA’s Staples Center, telling the 21,000 attendees that he was the “love of my life.” She also read aloud a text message she wrote to her late partner. “I want you to know I feel real joy in my heart when I’m around you. I feel safe around you. Protected. Like a shield over me when you’re around, I am totally myself when I’m with you,” London wrote. “You’ve made me into more of a woman. You’ve given me an opportunity to really love a man.” London isn’t the only one remembering Hussle with permanent ink: NBA player JR Smith and rapper The Game also had his face inked onto their bodies recently. Barack Obama, Drake and Kanye West have all spoken out about Hussle’s passing. After the fatal shooting, London broke her silence on Instagram. “I am completely lost, I’ve lost my best friend, My sanctuary, My protector, My soul….,” she wrote. “I’m lost without you, We are lost without you babe, I have no words.” The two were together for six years and share a 2-year-old son, Kross. Hussle also leaves behind a daughter, Emani Asghedom, from a previous relationship. London has another son, 9-year-old Cameron Carter, with rapper Lil Wayne. Hussle, whose real name was Ermias Asghedom, was gunned down last month outside his clothing store in the Hyde Park neighborhood of his native Los Angeles. The suspect, Eric Holder, has been charged with one count of murder, two counts of attempted murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.<doc-sep>Lauren London is wearing her heart on her sleeve, memorializing her longtime partner Nipsey Hussle forever in ink. The actress and mother to Hussle's 2-year-old son Kross Asghedom debuted a new tattoo on Instagram Thursday, shortly after speaking at the rapper's "Celebration of Life" memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. "Real Love Never Dies," she captioned a picture of her black-and-white tattoo of Hussle's face on the inside of her forearm. "When you see me, you will always see him." London's tattoo includes the words "God will rise," along with Hussle's signature checkered flags that he had inked on his neck. She concluded her post with the hashtag, "Love You Hussle." Nipsey Hussle memorial: Slain rapper's parents speak, Obama praises his impact During the "Celebration of Life," London praised Hussle, whose real name was Ermias Asghedom, as a partner, father, "majestic soul" and relentless seeker of knowledge. "He researched everything," she said. "Completely self-taught. He went to bed reading audiobooks, which I said was nerdy but thought was secretly cool." She noted that "grief is the final act of love," and invoked his words: "Until we meet again, the marathon continues." Contributing: Carly Mallenbaum and Jayme Deerwester Related: Nipsey Hussle's parents speak out and Lauren London vows to 'always represent for my king'<doc-sep>
Nipsey Hussle will always be with Lauren London. The 34-year-old actress took to Instagram on Thursday to share a photo of her new tattoo of her late partner, Hussle. The rapper died on March 31 after being shot outside of his Los Angeles clothing store; Thursday marked his star-studded Celebration of Life service at L.A.'s Staples Center. "Real Love Never Dies," she captioned the pic, which showed Hussle's face displayed across her arm, above the phrase, "God will rise." "When you see me, you will always see him #LoveYouHussle #TMC." London's touching tribute was met with praise from celebs like Nene Leakes, Eniko Hart, Evan Ross and Tamera Mowry-Housley. She also shared a post saying she will love him "forever and even after that." The Game also honored his late friend with some ink, debuting a chest tattoo of Hussle on Wednesday. London got emotional during her speech at Hussle's memorial on Thursday, during which she called the rapper the love of her life. London had been dating Hussle since 2013. The two shared a 2-year-old son together, Kross, and the rapper was a father figure to her 9-year-old son, whom she shares with ex Lil Wayne. Hussle was also father to a 7-year-old daughter, Emani, from a previous relationship. "I've never felt this type of pain before, but I know God is alive," London said, clearly emotional. "My pain is for my 2-year-old son, who probably won't remember how much his dad loved him." "My heart hears you," she later said, in a message to Hussle. "I feel you everywhere. I love you beyond this earth and until we meet again, the marathon continues." See more in the video below. GET THE ET NEWSLETTER Email By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy RELATED CONTENT: Nipsey Hussle Celebration of Life Memorial Service: Stevie Wonder Calls Rapper's Death 'So Unnecessary' Nipsey Hussle Fans Praise Heartwarming Memorial Service Lauren London Cries at Nipsey Hussle Memorial: 'I've Never Felt This Type of Pain Before'
Rio de Janeiro is in crisis. Growing violence, a deep economic decline and political corruption have combined to make the city a shadow of what it once was. It was only in 2016 that it was hosting the Olympic Games - an event into which Brazil poured billions of dollars.<doc-sep>Throughout the day, firefighters, investigators and even museum staff have been going into the building and every so often they have brought out bits of artefacts or anything they think they can salvage from the rubble.<doc-sep>Funding cuts and inadequate maintenance have been blamed for a devastating fire that tore through Brazil’s oldest and most important historical and scientific museum, and is feared to have destroyed much of its archive of 20m items. The blaze at the 200-year-old National Museum of Brazil in Rio de Janeiro began at about 7.30pm local time and raged into the night. There were no reports of injuries, but senior staff have described the loss to Brazilian science, history and culture as incalculable. By Monday morning, the flames had been extinguished, leaving museum directors to survey the smouldering ruins of Brazil’s heritage. Although they were initially wary of calculating losses, the gutted building suggests the toll will be immense. As the day progressed, ever more people tried to enter the park in which the building is housed to get a glimpse of its burned husk, and police eventually opened the gates. At one point, officers in riot gear fired teargas into a small, angry crowd of protesters who had gathered outside the park’s entrance. The museum was home to Egyptian and Graeco-Roman artefacts, fossils, dinosaurs and 12,000-year-old “Luzia” – the oldest human skeleton in the Americas. But perhaps the greatest blow is the likely destruction of indigenous artefacts, which showed how millions of people lived in pre-colonial times. José Urutau Guajajara, who studied his community’s history at the museum, said: “This is the greatest loss of indigenous writing in Latin America. Our memory has been erased.” Mércio Gomes, an anthropologist and a former president of Brazil’s indigenous agency, Fundação Nacional do Índio (Funai), compared the loss to the burning of the Library of Alexandria in 48BC. “We Brazilians have only 500 years of history. Our National Museum was 200 years old. Our memory is small, but that’s what we had, and it is lost for ever,” he wrote on Facebook. “We have to reconstruct our National Museum.” Brazil’s culture minister, Sérgio Leitão, told the Estado de S Paulo newspaper that the blaze was likely caused by either an electrical short-circuit or a homemade, paper hot-air balloon that may have landed on the roof. While the cause of the blaze is still under investigation, government cuts and inadequate fire protection systems have been cited as key factors. Rio’s fire chief, Roberto Robaday, tsaid the two hydrants nearest the museum were dry, delaying efforts to douse the flames. In recent years, the government has spent billions on the Olympics and major construction projects that generated kickbacks for politicians, but slashed spending on culture and education in the name of austerity. People watch fireworks over the Maracanã Stadium at the start of the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Photograph: Andrej Isakovic/AFP/Getty Luiz Duarte, one of the museum’s vice-directors, said politicians were to blame for failing to support the museum and letting it deteriorate. No state ministers appeared at its 200th birthday celebrations in June. “For many years, we fought with different governments to get adequate resources to preserve what is now completely destroyed,” he said. “My feeling is of total dismay and immense anger.” Duarte said the museum had just closed a deal with the Brazilian government’s development bank, BNDES, for funds that included a fire-prevention project. “This is the most terrible irony,” he said. The Brazilian president, Michel Temer, who has presided over cuts to science and education, called the losses “incalculable”. “Today is a sad day for all Brazilians,” he tweeted. “Two hundred years of work, research and knowledge were lost.” Leitão acknowledged that the fire was a “tragedy [that] could have been avoided”, but said the problems of the museum, which is part of the Federal University (UFRJ), had been “piling up over time”. He tweeted: “They didn’t start this year. In 2015, for example, it was closed for lack of resources for its maintenance. Revitalisation was due to begin now, with BNDES sponsorship. The project included fire protection.” People console each other outside the museum the day after the devastating blaze. Photograph: Carl de Souza/AFP/Getty Marina Silva, a former environment minister and a candidate for the presidential election to be held in October, said the fire was like “a lobotomy of the Brazilian memory”. She tweeted: “Unfortunately, given the financial shortages of the UFRJ and the other public universities in the last three years, this was a tragedy foretold.” On Sunday night, as the blaze crackled through the former palace, sending smoke and embers billowing into the sky, curators and firefighters had managed to salvage a few boxes, some jars of biological specimens and a microscope. Some items had also been stored in a separate building. When firefighters searched the charred remains of the immense collection the following morning, the only item that appeared to have survived was a chunk of meteorite from what had been Brazil’s biggest collection of items that fell from outer space. Some held out hope that the collection might have been digitised, but this possibility gave little solace to those whose identities were shaped and bolstered by the tangible presence of sacred or historically significant items. Dozens of people demonstrate in front of the museum, which had an archive of 20m items. Photograph: Antonio Lacerda/EPA Several indigenous people gathered at the scene and criticised the fact that the museum containing their most precious artefacts had burned down, seemingly because there was no money for the maintenance of hydrants, yet the city had recently managed to find a huge budget to build a new “museum of tomorrow”. Several dozen people congregated outside the gates, several of whom were clearly distraught. Others blamed the government’s austerity policies and corruption. Some Brazilians saw the fire as a metaphor for their country’s traumas as it struggles with rising levels of violent crime and the effects of a recession that has left more than 12 million people unemployed. Bernardo Mello Franco, one of Brazil’s best-known columnists, wrote on the O Globo newspaper website: “The tragedy this Sunday is a sort of national suicide. A crime against our past and future generations.”<doc-sep>
A 200-year-old museum in Rio de Janeiro has been engulfed by flames. The National Museum of Brazil houses more than 20 million items, ranging from archaeological findings to historical memorabilia. Firefighters are tackling the fire, which broke out after visiting hours. Image: The museum is housed in a palace where the Portuguese royal family lived in the 19th century Image: The museum houses millions of items related to the history of Brazil and other countries Sergeant Moises Torres from the state's firefighting headquarters said firefighters were dispatched at 7.30pm. He said there was no immediate information about any injuries. It is not known what the extent of the damage is, nor what the cause of the fire is. Brazil's President Michel Temer said on Twitter it was a "sad day for all Brazilians". He added: "The value of our history cannot be measured by the damage to the building." Image: Brazil's President Michel Temer said it was a 'sad day for all Brazilians' Image: The fire could be seen from miles away The museum is the oldest scientific institution in Brazil and one of the largest museums of natural history and anthropology in the Americas. It houses several landmark collections including Egyptian artefacts and the oldest human fossil found in Brazil. The museum, which is tied to the Rio de Janeiro federal university and the Education Ministry, was founded in 1818. The museum is housed in the Paco de Sao Cristovao, a palace where the Portuguese royal family lived in the 19th century.
Nearly seven years after construction began, the world's longest sea crossing is set to open. Key points: The bridge is the sixth-longest to be built in the world The bridge is the sixth-longest to be built in the world Over 400,000 tonnes of steel has been used to build the structure Over 400,000 tonnes of steel has been used to build the structure China has plans to use the cities which are linked as a huge economic and business hub China's engineering feat that links Macau, Hong Kong and the mainland China city of Zhuhai is to begin operating on Wednesday, with Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the ceremony. The crossing, built from 400,000 tonnes of steel, spans 55 kilometres across the Pearl River Delta with a 22.9-kilometre bridge over the sea (the world's sixth-longest) and a 6.7km tunnel. The bridge has also been designed to withstand earthquakes and seasonal typhoons that lash cities around the Pearl River estuary each year. The longest sea crossing the world has ever seen is ready to open for business. ( Reuters: Bobby Yip It also includes two artificial islands and is expected to drastically cut commute times for the combined populations of the three cities — in the vicinity of 9.6 million people — with trips to take 45 minutes, a journey up to three hours shorter than previously possible. The opening will not be without its dramas though, with several transport operators claiming they are not ready due to a lack of communication from the government. Matthew Wong Leung-pak, chairman of Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings, is one executive with such a complaint. "[The announcement] was out of our expectation," Mr Wong told the South China Morning Post. "The government had said it would give us a two-month notice for preparation but it came all in a sudden." How the world's longest crossing looks from afar. ( Reuters: Bobby Yip The crossing is not only a major feat of engineering but is also part of an ambitious plan for China to create an economic hub in its "Greater Bay Area". It will play a key role in the transport of goods made on the west side of the Pearl River to the east side, where they will be exported. The Bay Area, according to Chinese government forecasts published in the South China Morning Post, will have a GDP of $US4.6 trillion ($6.46 trillion) by 2030 when it is hoped that 29,000 vehicles a day will use it.<doc-sep>Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday opened the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau, the world's longest sea-crossing bridge that links the semi-autonomous cities of Hong Kong and Macau with the city of Zhuhai on the Chinese mainland. Construction began in 2009 but the project has been dogged by corruption prosecutions and the deaths of workers. Delays and cost overruns caused the final price tag of the 55-kilometer (34-mile) bridge to total around $20 billion (€17.5 billion). Read more: China: World's longest glass bridge closes Chinese President Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony The bridge passes through the Pearl River Delta, an important manufacturing region, and is set to cut the time taken to cross the area from several hours to 30 minutes. Authorities will restrict access to the bridge to drivers who have applied for special permits. China hopes the bridge will bolster economic growth in the region and promote integration between the mainland and the two semi-autonomous cities. Critics have denounced the project's impact on local wildlife. Hong Kong and mainland China are already linked by a high-speed railway that opened in September. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Above and under water On October 23, 2018, Chinese President Xi Jinping inaugurated the 55-kilometer (34-mile)-long sea bridge that connects Hong Kong and Macau to the sprawling Pearl River delta economic zone via the Chinese mainland city of Zhuhai. The remarkable structure consists of a meandering bridge and a 6.7-kilometer underwater tunnel between two artificial islands. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Previous record holder Previously, the 42-kilometer-long Jiaozhou Bay Bridge, or the Qingdao Bay Bridge, was the longest sea bridge. It is located in Shandong Peninsula and connects the cities of Qingdao and Huangdao. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Parking islands The Hong Kong-Macau sea bridge cost the Chinese government 120 billion yuan, equivalent to about €15 billion ($17.2 billion), and its construction took almost a decade. From this artificially created island in Hong Kong, the structure plunges under water. In addition, car and truck drivers can stop here. At least 60,000 cars and 250,000 people are estimated to use this connection daily. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Expected economic boom The Chinese government hopes that connecting Hong Kong and Macau to the Pearl River delta area would boost economic activity in the region. Until now residents of Zhuhai, Macau and Hong Kong have used ferries to commute between the three cities. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Time is money At a speed of 100 kilometers per hour, the journey time between Hong Kong and Macau should be reduced from three hours by ferry to less than 30 minutes by car. But this is not a bridge anyone can just drive on — for now only the rich or politically well connected residents of Hong Kong and Macau will be able to take their private cars across the bridge. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Several delays The bridge should have been officially inaugurated by the end of 2016, but it took longer than expected to open it. The bridge will be open to regular traffic from October 24, 2018. The structure will last up to at least 120 years and can also withstand typhoon winds of up to 340 kilometers per hour. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge A steel and concrete giant About 400,000 tons of steel was used in the construction of this gigantic bridge. That is 4.5 times more steel than what was used in building the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Chinese authorities say the bridge can not only withstand a magnitude-8 earthquake but also survive collisions with cargo ships. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge Two driving systems Border controls have been built on crossings in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau. One of the problems that drivers face along the bridge deals with right- and left-hand driving systems. The drivers must also have two valid licenses to cross the bridge. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau: China opens world's longest sea bridge A controversial 'white elephant' The construction of the bridge was delayed due to rising costs, fatal accidents of laborers and corruption allegations. Hong Kong residents fear Beijing will attempt to undermine their partial autonomy through this bridge. Environmentalists warn it would have a devastating impact on endangered pink dolphin species in the Pearl River estuary. Critics also say that the bridge is a waste of money. Author: Sabrina Müller-Plotnikow (shs) The United Kingdom handed over control of Hong Kong to China in 1997 under an agreement that the city would retain partial independence from Beijing until 2047. Portugal transferred sovereignty over Macau to China in 1999. amp/rt (AP,AFP) Each evening at 1830 UTC, DW's editors send out a selection of the day's hard news and quality feature journalism. You can sign up to receive it directly here.<doc-sep>
55-km-long sea bridge connecting Hong Kong to Macau and the mainland Chinese city of Zhuhai China on Tuesday opened the 55-km-long sea bridge connecting Hong Kong to Macau and the mainland Chinese city of Zhuhai. It is said to be the world's longest bridge. President Xi Jinping inaugurated the USD 20 billion bridge at a special ceremony held in Zhuhai, in southern China's Guangdong Province, attended by about 700 guests, including the leaders of Hong Kong and Macau. It was opened with a one sentence speech by Xi, the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported. The construction of the bridge started in December 2009 and was to be completed in 2016. Situated in the Lingdingyang waters of the Pearl River estuary, it will be the world's longest sea bridge, the state-run Xinhua news agency said. China claims credit for building the world's longest bridge, the 164.8-km-long Danyang–Kunshan Grand viaduct on the Beijing- Shanghai high speed railway. The 55-kilometre crossing, which includes a road bridge and underwater tunnel, links Hong Kong's Lantau island to Zhuhai and the gambling enclave of Macau, across the waters of the Pearl River Estuary. The bridge, which will be opened for regular traffic from Wednesday, will slash the travel time between Hong Kong and Zhuhai from three hours to just 30 minutes, it said, adding it will further integrate the cities in the Pearl River Delta. Chinese Vice-Premier Han Zheng said the bridge would bring Hong Kong and mainland China closer in terms of economic and trade activities. Describing the bridge as a sign of successful cooperation between the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau he said, it is a demonstration of China's engineering capabilities. Han, Beijing's man in-charge of regional economic integration, said that the 55-km-long bridge could facilitate the development of "one country, two systems", a framework that allows Hong Kong and Macau a certain degree of autonomy. He said it was the first time the three sides had worked together on a major infrastructure project. "It opens up all three places for greater exchange in trade and economics. It also enhances the competitiveness of the Pearl River Delta," the Post quoted him as saying. The bridge would help Hong Kong and Macau be integrated to mainland China, he added. Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor highlighted the three cross-border infrastructure projects – the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong express rail link, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge and the Liantang/Heung Yuen Wai boundary control point which will open early next year. But, the critics have called the bridge a "white elephant" and a "blood and sweat project", noting 10 workers have died and more than 600 were injured during its construction, the Post reported. Additional concerns surfaced earlier this year when officials revealed that estimates for the amount of traffic expected for the bridge had been cut. A 2008 consultancy study had predicted that 33,100 vehicles and 1,71,800 passengers would cross the bridge daily by 2030. But the estimate was lowered to 29,100 vehicles and 1,26,000 passenger trips in a 2016 study, down 12 per cent and 26 per cent respectively, the report said. ( With inputs from PTI ) Latest World News
The new series of The Only Way Is Essex has finally arrived, and our Sunday night TV lineup is once again complete. The ITVBe show is back for a 24th series, and this time the vajazzled shenanigans have kicked off in Thailand, where the cast are enjoying a glamorous getaway before returning to the Essex motherland later in the season. Viewers may have spotted some new faces among the usual gang, but who are the new TOWIE cast? As reported by the Daily Mail, the show has introduced a brand spanking new lineup for 2019, which consists of eight additional cast-members. The news comes after producers dropped a whopping ten previous TOWIE stars, however long-standing names such as Pete Wicks, Dan Edgar, Liam 'Gatsby' Blackwell, Tommy Mallet and Georgia Kousoulou have returned to the new series. Those joining the show will replace former TOWIE cast-members including Dan Edgar's ex Amber Turner, Adam Oukhellou, and Myles Barnett and his girlfriend, and ex-Love Island star Kady McDermott. According to TellyMix, a spokesperson for the broadcaster discussed the reasons behind the major shake-up. They said "It’s how TOWIE has stayed so fresh and exciting for nearly a decade. We remain grateful to every single cast member that has featured in TOWIE and contributed to its huge success." So, if you're wanting to find out more about the Essex newbies, here's everything you need to know about the The Only Way Is Essex's new castmembers. Kelsey Stratford ITV At 18 years old, Kelsey is one of TOWIE's youngest stars, and outside of the reality TV bubble, she works as a one-one tutor. Although single, according to the Daily Mail, Kelsey isn't looking to commit to a relationship anytime soon, and hopes to spend some quality time with the girls. Tom McDonnell ITV Tom McDonnell, 23, works as a personal trainer and is a self-confessed mummy's boy. According to The Sun, he also describes himself as a wind-up, and says that he enjoys being single too much to have a girlfriend. Ella Wise ITV Ella Wise is an 18 year-old hairdresser, and has been dating her boyfriend, Jack, for over two years. According to OK!, Ella's friends describe her as one to watch out for on a night out — and say that her honesty can sometimes get her into trouble. Jayden Beales ITV According to the Daily Mail, Jayden is a 20 year-old part-time model. He is described as being mischievous and cheeky, and claims to keep women at a distance because of his aversion to serious commitments. Jayden also told The Sun he believes he can get away with murder due to his "cute looks and floppy hair." Chloe Brockett ITV Hairdresser Chloe Brockett, 18, has been single for over a year after splitting with her "boring" ex-boyfriend. She is described as being the Queen Bee of her friendship group, which includes fellow cast-mates Ella and Joey. According to OK!, Chloe's mother will also be starring in the new season, which brings us to the next TOWIE newbie. Clare Brockett ITV Clare Brockett, 42, is a black cab driver, and mother to fellow cast-mate Chloe. As reported by the Daily Mail, Clare is currently single and enjoys dating life. However, before she commits to anyone, she will look for the seal of approval from her 18 year-old daughter. Joey Turner ITV Fashion school dropout Joey Turner, 17, is the youngest member of The Only Way Is Essex cast. According to The Sun, Joey has no problem stirring the pot, and claims to out friends who talk about people behind their backs. Joey's mum is also thought to be joining the cast later in the series — so in the future he might just have to bite his tongue if he doesn't want a telling off from his mum. Harry Lee ITV Harry Lee is a 23 year-old recruitment consultant and footballer from Essex, reports Telly Mix. Harry apparently loves a bit of female attention, but after a previous heartbreak, he has been reluctant to find love again. Will Harry find his new sweetheart within the new TOWIE cast? We'll have to watch and find out. The Only Way Is Essex continues every Sunday at 9p.m. on ITVBe.<doc-sep>Get the latest news from across Ireland straight to your inbox every single day Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Sign up! Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice The Only Way Is Essex have reportedly drafted in some sexy new cast-members. The hit ITV show, which is currently filming in Thailand, is said to have recruited a new bunch of "super hot" 18-year olds to shake up the show. According to The Sun , the younger signings already have huge followings on social media, and their arrival is said to have left some of the existing TOWIE cast feeling "threatened". The publication claim that the influencer newbies are already filming for the show, but have so far been kept separate from the original cast – who are "desperate" to meet them. (Image: Instagram) (Image: Instagram) The news comes after it was announced that 10 huge stars of the show, including James Lock, Myles Barnett, Jon Clark and Chloe Lewis would not be returning for the new series. Some of the axed reality stars had been on the show since 2015, and were staple cast members. Discussing show bosses' decision to draft in the newbies, an insider said: "They are already keeping the old cast members on their toes following the big cull. "The rest of the cast were told there was a new group of signings on the first night of their Thailand trip, but they don't know who they are yet." (Image: Instagram) (Image: Instagram) The TOWIE originals were said to have had mixed reactions when learning of the newbies. "Half felt threatened by having a new group of younger, fresher Essex newbies stealing the headlines while the other half were excited to have fresh meat to crack on to and pull," the source added. It is not yet known who the fresh faced cast members are. Mirror Online have contacted TOWIE for comment.<doc-sep>
Who Are The New TOWIE Cast Members? Meet The 2019 Line-Up For Season 24 Chloe Brockett (right) and Kelsey Stratford (left) star in the new TOWIE series. Picture: Instagram The Only Way Is Essex has returned for another season - bringing with it a fresh batch of drama and some brand new faces. The 24th season of TOWIE dropped on ITVBe last night. And following the show's mass cull of ten cast members last year, we're about to meet eight new faces. As the eight newbies were spotted filming around Essex, we take a look at the new line-up... QUIZ: Match The Classic Quote To The TOWIE Cast Member Who are the new TOWIE cast members? Chloe Brockett Chloe Brockett is an eighteen-year-old hairdresser. Her glamorous mum Clare has also joined the crew. Ella Wise Also joining the TOWIE cast is eighteen-year-old Ella. Like Chloe, Ella is a hairdresser. As she's in a relationship, it's doubtful she'll be on the pull. Kelsey Stratford One-to-one tutor Kelsey, also 18, works with children with special needs. She has described herself as single and said she's not ready to settle down anytime soon. Harry Lee 23-year-old Harry is a recruitment consultant and footballer hailing from Essex. Tom McDonnell Personal trainer and self-confessed wind-up merchant Tom, 23, is bound to get a few laughs. Jayden Beales Model Jayden Beales also joins the TOWIE line-up. Picture: Instagram Jayden, 20, is a part-time model is also set to star in the brand new series of The Only Way Is Essex. Joey Turner Speaking to The Sun, Joey says he isn't afraid to "stir the pot" and will out anyone who goes behind another's back. There're also rumours that Joey's mum will make an appearance in the show later in the series. Chloe Lewis, James Locke, Myles Barnett and Jon Clark were all axed from the show, as well as Kady McDermott, Dean Ralph and Jazmin Oukhellou. When is TOWIE season 24 on TV? The new series kicked off on Sunday, 17 March. You can catch all the action every week at 9pm on ITVBe.
The train came to a halt at Chamraula, just before dawn, 18 km ahead of Tundla station, after its wheels started skidding reportedly after it ran over some livestock. The train came to a halt around 5.30 a.m. near Chamraula station, according to railway officials. After some checking, the train started its onward journey but slowly and haltingly before it came to a stop. A couple of hours later, it left for Delhi after 8.30 a.m. Officials said the braking system could not cope with the speed of the train and so the on-board mechanical engineers decided to put a halt to the train and engaged in a complete check. Northern Railway spokesperson Deepak Kumar said, "There was some communication and electrical failure due to which the brakes of the train got jammed." He said that the wheels of the affected coaches started skidding. However, the train later resumed its journey after the on-board engineers fixed the problem, Kumar said. The Vande Bharat Express, which is scheduled to start its commercial run from Sunday, arrived in New Delhi around 1 p.m. on Saturday, seven hours behind schedule. The new train had started its return journey from Varanasi on Saturday night at 10.30 p.m., 45 minutes after it had reached the parliamentary constituency of the Prime Minister on its inaugural run. Railways spokesperson Smita Vats Sharma said that this was not a scheduled commercial run. "Commercial operation of Vande Bharat Express starts from February 17," she said. "The train resumed its onward journey for Delhi at around 8.15 a.m from Chamraula," she said. On Saturday, the train was flagged off by Modi from New Delhi Railway Station at 11.20 a.m. The 16-coach train will have two executive compartments with 52 seats each and chair car coaches with 78 seats each.<doc-sep>A day after its inauguration, India’s first semi-high speed train, Vande Bharat Express (also known as Train 18) broke down on Saturday, 16 February, The Indian Express reported. According to the newspaper report, Vande Bharat express was being brought to Delhi from Varanasi but began making a suspicious sound as the wheels of the train skid and the breaks jammed in one of the trailing coaches. Soon after this, the electricity in four coaches went off – forcing loco pilots to halt the train nearly 15 km away from Tundla junction in Uttar Pradesh. “Vande Bharat Express was standing 15 km away from Tundla since 6:30 am. There seems to be disruption due to a possible cattle run over,” an official told ANI. Officials have rushed to the spot to figure out the next course of action. It is likely that Vande Bharat Express will be taken to the nearest maintenance station. The train is not yet opened for commercial run.<doc-sep>Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor<doc-sep>
India's semi-high speed train Vande Bharat Express which was flagged off by PM Narendra Modi yesterday, breaks down around 5.30 am this morning on its return from Varanasi to Delhi. According to railway officials who didn't want to be identified, there was a major technical fault that led to break locking and wheel friction. To add on there was complete power failure to four coaches. Till 7.50 am the Indian Railways failed to identify and rectify the problem. On the question of whether the Train 18 or Vande Bharat Express was fit for commercial run tomorrow, railway officials were mum. Notably, Train 18 is completely booked and has waiting list till February 24. Vande Bharat Express is expected to start it's commercial operations tomorrow. The reporter who was on board along with few other media officials felt sudden breaks being applied around 5.30 am at Barhan around 18 km from Tundla station. A railway official on condition of anonymity said, "If the engineers are unable to rectify the problem, the train would be towed using another engine. But there would be problem in attaching engine. Engine coupler is covered and the coupler cover needs to be removed. He added that it is still unclear if commercial operations will be started from Sunday onwards. The train resumed it's operations around 10.30 am and reached New Delhi railway station at 1pm. According to railway officials the train was driven at speed of around 100km/h on enroute to Delhi after rectifying the fault. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics
A US Republican congressman, Devin Nunes, is suing Twitter and a number of its users for $250 million (€220.2 million) in damages, accusing them of defamation and negligence. Nunes' suit alleges that Twitter "shadow bans" conservatives to try and make their messages less visible and that it failed to crack down on parody accounts such as "Devin Nunes' Mom" and "Devin Nunes' cow" — both of which are anonymous and accused him of obstructing investigations into the president. Shadow banning, as described by Trump and other conservatives, purportedly involves restricting the visibility of prominent US Republicans' messages on the social media site; Twitter disputes the allegations. Read more: 15 years on, is it time to #DeleteFacebook? The complaint highlighted many tweets, including one from the Devin Nunes' Mom account stating: "Are you trying to obstruct a federal investigation again? You come home right this instant or no more Minecraft!" Other tweets accused the lawmaker of having "white supremacist friends" and distributing "disturbing inflammatory racial propaganda." The suit said that Twitter was "knowingly hosting and monetizing content that is clearly abusive, hateful and defamatory." Liz Mair, one of the account-holders named in the suit, said on Twitter that she would not comment in detail as she was a defendant in the case, "but suffice it to say that I have a very different view on the applicable law (including the First Amendment) than Rep. Nunes." The First Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees free speech. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Dan Coats Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats resigned from his post, which oversees and coordinates all 17 US intelligence agencies, in July 2019. Coats clashed with Trump on Russia, taking a harder line on Vladimir Putin than the president. He also contradicted Trump's assertion that North Korea no longer posed a threat. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Alexander Acosta Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta announced his resignation in July 2019, after criticism of a legal deal made years ago that led to financier Jeffrey Epstein only serving 13 months in jail for child sex abuse. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Rod Rosenstein Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein submitted his resignation at the end of April 2019, after a two-year run defined by his appointment of a special counsel, Robert Mueller, to investigate connections between Donald Trump's 2016 campaign and Russia. The move made Rosenstein a frequent target for Republican wrath and angry Trump tweets. Indeed, he often appeared to be on the edge of being fired. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Randolph Alles Randolph Alles, a former Marine who reached the rank of major general, resigned as the head of the US Secret Service in early April 2019. Although initial news reports suggested he had been "fired," he later said he had been notified of changes to senior security positions and that he resigned voluntarily. He had previously served as acting deputy commission of US Customs and Border Protection. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Kirstjen Nielsen Kirstjen Nielsen announced her resignation as secretary of homeland security in early April 2019. She had previously served in other administration positions, including deputy White House chief of staff. Nielsen, a hard-line border security advocate, is best known for her controversial policy of separating children from their migrant parents at the US border. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Bill Shine Bill Shine announced his resignation as White House communications director in early March 2019. The former Fox News executive may be leaving his post, but he's not completely out of a job. The White House has said he will be working on Trump's 2020 reelection campaign. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Brock Long Brock Long announced his resignation as the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) mid-February 2109. Long is best known for managing the agency's response to historic wildfires in California and major landfalls of powerful hurricanes. However, his resignation came shortly after he was told to reimburse the government over the misuse of government vehicles. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Brett McGurk Appointed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama in 2015, McGurk was the US envoy to the coalition fighting "Islamic State" terrorists and was influential in shaping US policy in northern Syria. He was due to end his tenure in February 2019 but stepped down days after Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, largely due to Trump's sudden decision to take US soldiers out of Syria. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Jim Mattis Defense Secretary Jim Mattis abruptly announced his retirement in late December 2018 after Trump ignored his advice and announced the complete withdrawal of US troops from Syria. Mattis' resignation letter laid bare the growing divide between them, criticizing his boss for his treatment of allies. Mattis was a keen supporter of NATO and traditional US alliances, putting him at odds with Trump. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Ryan Zinke Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke resigned in December 2018 as pressure mounted from more than a dozen investigations into various aspects of his tenure and private business. The former Navy SEAL was a leading advocate of expanding domestic energy production, opening up vast swathes of the country for exploration. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties John F. Kelly In December 2018, Trump announced that John Kelly, his third chief of staff, would step down at the end of the year. He had been brought in to establish order in the Trump White House but found the job arduous, and his relationship with his boss soured. The retired four-star Marine Corps general was replaced by budget director Mick Mulvaney, after several candidates turned down the job. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Jeff Sessions Attorney General Jeff Sessions was fired in November 2018 after several months of abuse from Trump. Despite being an early supporter, he attracted the wrath of his boss early on by recusing himself from the Justice Department investigation into collusion. He was replaced with a loyalist who shares Trump's concerns about the investigation. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Nikki Haley United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, one of the administration's few high-profile women, announced her resignation in October 2018. She said her resignation was long-planned, but the announcement took most senior politicians by surprise. She lent international legitimacy to the administration as she attempted to provide a coherent message. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Marc Short The White House director of legislative affairs announced he would leave his post effective July 20, 2018. Short, one of the administration's longest-serving members, was also one of its most visible, pushing Trump's legislative agenda on TV. But his work was frequently undercut by the president, who complained about deals the team had negotiated, preferring instead to go it alone without them. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Scott Pruitt It remained a mystery to many how Pruitt could hang on for so long, but the president seemed to like him. Many on the left cringed at his every move as head of the Environmental Protection Agency. He was also embroiled in various ethics scandals. Nevertheless, Trump took to Twitter to thank Pruitt for doing an "outstanding job" at the EPA. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Ty Cobb One of Trump's top lawyers in the ongoing special counsel investigation into Russian involvement in the 2016 presidential election, Cobb said he simply wanted to retire. But many believe he was forced out by Trump and others in his legal team for his lack of aggression in Robert Mueller's Russia probe. Cobb was said to have been increasingly uneasy about Trump's Twitter attacks on Mueller. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Tom Bossert White House Homeland Security Adviser Tom Bossert, who had worked for George W. Bush, was reportedly pushed out in the shake-up that occurred after John Bolton replaced H.R. McMaster as national security adviser. It is said that Bolton had no issues with Bossert, but that he wanted his own team in place. The White House thanked Bossert for his "patriotic service" and wished him well. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties David Shulkin Though the White House said Shulkin resigned, he says he was fired. A holdover from the Obama administration, he was appointed to run the Department of Veteran's Affairs by Trump. His downfall came amid a travel expense scandal involving his wife. He criticized the atmosphere in the administration as "toxic, chaotic, disrespectful and subversive," claiming he was the victim of political intrigue. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties H.R. McMaster In a tweet on March 22, 2018, US President Trump announced he was replacing H.R. McMaster with John Bolton as his national security adviser. A respected general, McMaster said he would retire from the US army and public service. McMaster's departure was not a complete surprise, as he and Trump are reported to have had conflicting views on a number of US policies. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Rex Tillerson A former Exxon executive, Tillerson had served as secretary of state for a little over a year. Donald Trump ousted Tillerson in order to form a "new team" ahead of talks with North Korea, adding that he and Tillerson "disagreed on things." The relationship between them is said to have deteriorated after Tillerson reportedly called Trump a "moron" in October 2017. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Gary Cohn A Goldman Sachs veteran, Gary Cohn served as Donald Trump's top economic adviser at the head of the National Economic Council. He helped push through controversial tax reforms in 2017. However, Cohn stepped down in March 2018 after failing to persuade Trump to give up his idea of imposing tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Hope Hicks Hope Hicks resigned from her post as the White House communications director in late February 2018. A day before resigning, she testified before US lawmakers on Russian interference. She admitted to telling "white lies" for Donald Trump, but not related to Russia. The White House insisted her resignation was not linked to the testimony. The 29-year-old was among Trump's closest aides. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Rob Porter The White House staff secretary handed in his resignation after his ex-wives accused him of domestic abuse. Despite resigning, Rob Porter denied the allegations as "simply false." Trump initially defended Porter, and the US media questioned how Porter passed his background check for the job. Recently, reports surfaced of a romance between Porter and Trump's longtime aide Hope Hicks. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Stephen Bannon He played a key role in getting Donald Trump into the White House, but even chief strategist Stephen Bannon was ousted within a year. Bannon was a champion of economic nationalism and Trump's "America First" strategy. After the fallout of white supremacist violence in Charlottesville mid-August, Bannon agreed to leave the administration. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Anthony Scaramucci The 53-year-old former hedge fund investor nicknamed the "Mooch" was communications director for just 10 days. The colorful New Yorker filled a dream role that had been vacant for months, but was forced out on the same day that straight-shooting former Marine Corps general John Kelly became chief of staff. Trump was displeased with his infamous expletive-laden rant against other senior staff. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Walter M. Shaub Jr. Walter Shaub, the former director of the Office of Government Ethics, resigned in July 2017 after clashing with the White House over Trump's complicated financial holdings. Shaub reportedly called Trump's administration a "laughingstock." 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Reince Priebus Reince Priebus, former White House chief of staff, was forced out just six months into his tenure after a public feud with Anthony Scaramucci, the White House communications director. Priebus was reportedly among those West Wing staffers who had opposed hiring Scaramucci. 'You're fired' — Trump administration casualties Sean Spicer Sean Spicer, who had a fraught relationship with the president and the press, resigned after telling Trump he vehemently disagreed with the selection of Anthony Scaramucci as White House communications director.<doc-sep>California GOP Rep. Devin Nunes, who has opened a $250 million lawsuit against Twitter alleging that the social media company negligently failed to remove defamatory and malicious tweets against him and his family, told Fox News on Monday that the lawsuit will be "the first of many." Appearing on Fox News’ "Hannity," Nunes said he was going after Twitter first because they “are the main proliferator” of “fake” and “slanderous” news. “The case we’re basically making is this was an orchestrated effort. So people were targeting me, there were anonymous accounts that were developed … and these accounts are not supposed to exist. Twitter says that they don’t have accounts that do this,” he said. NUNES SUES TWITTER, SOME USERS, SEEKS OVER $250M ALLEGING ANTI-CONSERVATIVE 'SHADOW BANS,' SMEARS Nunes' lawsuit accuses Twitter and a handful of its users of "shadow-banning conservatives" -- including himself -- to influence the 2018 election by censoring opposing viewpoints. Acknowledging the role that Twitter plays in modern politics, Nunes accused the social media platform of “gaslighting” for all of the news and “proliferating” only the content they supposedly agree with. “And when they’re regulating us, they're regulating what people can see on my tweets – which they’ve done – and then they’re proliferating out things that they agree with the algorithms that they develop," he said. "They need to come clean. They’re not a public square. They are content developers.” Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey testified before Congress last year that his platform is a kind of "digital public square," although he has insisted that Twitter, as a private company, retains the right to censor speech. TWITTER CEO: PLATFORM WAS PROBABLY 'WAY TOO AGGRESSIVE' IN BANNING ACCOUNTS Nunes, accused Twitter of a double standard, questioning why the company would allow certain accounts -- which, by its own terms of service, he said shouldn't exist in the first place -- to attack him "hundreds of times a day." "I guarantee you, if I put something out that was sexually explicit or attacked someone personally they would stop it," Nunes said. "They never did that to any of the people that were coming after me or other conservatives." Twitter did not comment on the suit when reached earlier by Fox News. Nunes' lawsuit alleges defamation, conspiracy and negligence, seeking not only damages, but also an injunction compelling Twitter to turn over the identities behind numerous accounts he says harassed him and deliberately interfered in his investigation as House Intelligence Committee chair into corruption and Russian involvement in the 2016 Presidential Election. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP "This is part of the continuing Russia investigation. We're not going to just let all these fake news stories that were written about this investigation, about this hoax -- that were lies -- we're going to challenge every single one of them in court. We're just starting with Twitter," Nunes said. Fox News' Gregg Re contributed to this report.<doc-sep>
CEO of ADL: Seeing a 'blitzkrieg of anti-Jewish' acts across US 'Stay out': Fulton County official reacts to potential GOP visit during audit Dana Bash: This is so telling about where the Republican party is NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 24: Trump Tower stands on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on August 24, 2018 in New York City. Following new allegations over hush money that former Trump attorney Michael Cohen paid to an adult-film actress, the Manhattan district attorneyÕs office in New York City may seek criminal charges against the Trump Organization in the coming days. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Why GOP is standing in the way of Capitol riot investigation WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 08: US Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John Warner (R-VA) remarks on the resignation of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld at the US Capitol November 8, 2006 in Washington, DC. Warner said he supports President George W. Bush's nomination of former CIA Director Robert Gates for Secretary of Defense. Warner said he anticipates Gates' confirmation before the end of the year. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), joined by Senate Assistant Minority Leader John Thune (R-SD) (L) and Senate Minority Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO), speaks following a Senate Republican Policy luncheon at the Russell Senate Office Building on May 18, 2021 in Washington, DC. Hear what Matt Gaetz said about Paul Ryan before his speech Former GOP senator: If McConnell said this, 'it's shameful' 'Some people have no shame': Biden calls out GOP lawmakers with list Rep. Devin Nunes (R-CA) leaves while Senior Advisor Jared Kushner leaves meets with the House Intelligence Committee on Capitol Hill July 25, 2017 in Washington, DC. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan Smialowski (Photo credit should read BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images) (CNN) — California Republican Rep. Devin Nunes is suing Twitter and three individual Twitter users, accusing them of defaming him in order to derail his re-election campaign and deter him from the Russia investigation. Nunes, an ally of President Donald Trump and former chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, filed the complaint Tuesday in Virginia state court, seeking $250 million in damages and $350,000 in punitive damages. READ: Devin Nunes’ defamation lawsuit against Twitter, users who criticized him The California congressman accuses Twitter of allowing the users to spread “false and defamatory statements” about him, alleging that the company harbors a political agenda against conservatives. “As part of its agenda to squelch Nunes’ voice, cause him extreme pain and suffering, influence the 2018 Congressional election, and distract, intimidate and interfere with Nunes’ investigation into corruption and Russian involvement in the 2016 Presidential Election, Twitter did absolutely nothing,” the complaint says. The lawsuit was first reported by Fox News, which posted a draft copy of the complaint on Monday. CNN has reached out to both Nunes’ congressional office and lawyer. Twitter declined to comment on the lawsuit. Nunes named Republican strategist Liz Mair and two other parody accounts – Devin Nunes’ Mom (@DevinNunesMom) and Devin Nunes’ Cow (@DevinCow) – in his lawsuit. He accused Mair and the two other accounts of engaging in a “concerted defamation campaign” to “cause immense pain” and divert his attention from leading the House Intelligence’s probe into Russian meddling in the 2016 election. Nunes pointed to several tweets that he said falsely accused him of federal crimes and includes vulgar language. “Devin’s boots are full of manure. He’s udder-ly worthless and its pasture time to move him to prison,” reads one tweet from Devin Nunes’ Cow. The Twitter account @DevinNunesMom was suspended after Nunes’ real mother complained, the complaint said. @DevinCow remains active and has gained followers since Nunes’ complaint was made public. The account posted Monday, “I’m not quitting my day job” in response to the lawsuit. Nunes has asked the court to reveal the users behind the two parody accounts. Nunes told Fox News on Monday that the lawsuit will be “the first of many.” “We’re actually going after Twitter first because they are the main proliferator and they spread this fake news and this slanderous news,” Nunes told Fox News. Mair, who has been outspoken against the President and in 2015 set up an anti-Trump super PAC called “Make America Awesome,” said on Twitter that she is “declining comment on this for now.” Nunes’ lawsuit also accuses Twitter of “shadow-banning conservatives” – where a user is unaware his posts aren’t viewable by others except him.
This week is the start of the Fortnite week seven challenges for season eight. This fresh set of challenges revolves around that same pirate theme that is at the heart of Battle Royale season eight and is the first week in a while to dive into it since the buried treasure challenge a few weeks back. Unfortunately, though, that doesn’t mean the challenges are great for this week. They’re actually pretty lame. Fortnite week 7 challenges The season eight, week seven challenges are probably one of the worst sets of challenges this entire season. They’re all pretty lame challenges that we have seen a million times before. Even the best pirate-themed challenge this week is just a slight rework of a challenge we already did at the very beginning of the season. As always, there are a total of seven new challenges for players to take on this week. Of those challenges, three of them are available to all players regardless of owning the season pass or not. However, the four other ones are only for players who own the Battle Pass for this season, which you might have gotten for free if you did the overtime challenges last season. If you want to know what all seven challenges are, check out our handy dandy screenshot above. Fortnite week 7 challenges: Visit 3 pirate camps As for the big challenge this week, it’s a simple one that might look familiar to diligent season eight Battle Royale players. The task is to find and visit three different pirate camps on the map but the catch is that you must visit all three of them within the same exact match. This makes this otherwise simple challenge a much more difficult one. Luckily, we have all the locations of the pirate camps on the map as well as some important tips for completing this challenge. Fortnite week 7 challenges tips First and foremost, you will absolutely need to do this challenge in Team Rumble or one of the big team modes. This is because it gives you ample amount of time to find all three before the storm completely closes in. In addition, there are respawns so if you are killed by an enemy while you are doing the challenge, you won’t lose all progress. Another reason why you should do it in Team Rumble is that the teams are much larger than usual but there are still fewer players in total and fewer enemies to worry about than in other modes. You will also want to find a vehicle like the new Baller so that you can quickly zip around the map and reach all three pirate camps in time before it’s too late. If you can’t find a vehicle, be sure to stock up on building resources along the way so you can build yourself a ramp, jump, and deploy your parachute to travel more quickly across the map. Alternatively, you can also make use of the volcano vents, like the one seen above, to boost you quickly into the air. Those vents were the only reason we were able to visit the third location before the circle closed in completely. Last but not least, make sure to turn on Party Assist mode in the challenges tab of the main menu so your teammates can help you do this challenge, too. Fortnite pirate camps: Lazy Lagoon Let’s go over the three pirate camps that we recommend you visit for this season eight, week seven challenge. These three locations are closest together so it’s not as hard to visit them in a single match of Team Rumble. The first location up is near Lazy Lagoon. If your battle bus gives you the chance to land here first, we highly recommend you do so. This is because there are some Baller vehicles you can find at the fort or in an area nearby that you can use to get to the other locations. However, it is a popular spot so you might not make it to the vehicles before your teammates do, which was the case for us. The exact location of this particular pirate camp can be found just to the west and slightly northwest of Lazy Lagoon. It is northwest of the huge pirate ship and the little town in Lazy Lagoon. Its location on the grid map is right on the border of the E2 and F2 squares. Head here and get close enough to the camp so that you see a notification pop up in the top left corner of your screen, letting you know that you’ve reached the pirate camp. Now, grab a Baller if there are any left and start heading southeast. Fortnite pirate camps: Volcano For the second pirate camp, head directly southeast from Lazy Lagoon. This pirate camp is located right near the base of the unnamed volcano location. It is a bit of a walk, which is why building a ramp or using a vehicle will do you a lot of good here. You will need to go past the town in Lazy Lagoon all the way to the west side of the volcano. The exact location of this volcano pirate camp is just southwest of the main volcano itself. It is also north and west of the lava river that flows from the volcano. You can see this pirate camp’s little mark on the main map. If you’re looking at the grid map, it can be found on the border of the G4 and H4 squares. Once you arrive at this location, get close enough so that you can see the notification. Now, it’s time to head to the third and final pirate camp that we recommend you visit. Thankfully, the volcano pirate camp is on a steep cliffside you can easily jump off of and glide for a bit. Face southwest towards Dusty Divot and let’s head to the final location for this challenge. Fortnite pirate camps: Dusty Divot The third and final location we recommend you visit is the Dusty Divot pirate camp which is just southwest of the previous one. Its exact location is ever so slightly northwest of Dusty Divot itself and directly north of the big hill in the middle of the island. You can also see this pirate camp on the map as it is massive in size. If you’re looking at the grid map, you can find this camp right on the border of the E5 and F5 squares. Head here and get close enough so that you see the notification. All other Fortnite pirate camps If the battle bus happens to take you elsewhere, here are the locations of the four other pirate camps in Fortnite: Pleasant Park: Located slightly southwest of Pleasant Park and below the huge mountain near there. You can find it in the B4 square. Tilted Towers: Southwest of Tilted Towers and in the snowy biome. It can be found in the C6 square. Salty Springs/Fatal Fields: Southwest of Salty Springs and northeast of Fatal Fields. It’s right on top of the huge hill here that you can’t miss. Paradise Palms: Northwest of Paradise Palms in the desert. It’s located right on the border of the desert and grassy areas in the H7 square on the map. Fortnite week 7 challenge reward Your reward for completing this season eight, week seven challenge is 10 whopping Battle Stars. That’s enough to guarantee an entire tier level up so don’t miss out on this reward. Editors' Recommendations<doc-sep>Update: It's your last chance to complete the Buccaneer's Bounty challenges in Fortnite, as the limited-time event is scheduled to end today, April 15. Each task you complete will earn you a special pirate-themed reward, and if you clear all four of them before the event ends, you'll receive an Epic-tier emote. You can see the full list of challenges and rewards below. The original story follows. Fortnite's 8.30 update is now live across PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile. Not only did the latest patch introduce Reboot Vans to the battle royale game, it also marked the start of a new limited-time event called Buccaneer's Bounty, which features its own unique set of challenges and rewards. However, your time to complete these challenges is running out. Buccaneer's Bounty runs until April 15. Each day of the event, Epic is featuring a different limited-time mode, and there will be a new challenge to complete and cosmetic reward to unlock. If you manage to complete all four of the Buccaneer's Bounty challenges before the event ends, you'll also earn a special reward: an Epic-tier emote. The first Buccaneer's Bounty challenge is fairly straightforward: visit a Pirate Camp in different matches. You'll need to travel to 10 of these camps to complete the mission. Fortunately, the Pirate Camps are always located in the same spots, so with a little persistence you should be able to complete this challenge without too much difficulty. Be sure to check out our Pirate Camp location guide if you need help finding them. The second challenge is likewise self-explanatory: search one Buried Treasure. Once that's completed, you'll unlock a special Pirate Parrot spray. For the third challenge, all you need to do is place in the top 10 in Squads and you'll earn an uncommon banner. Last but not least, you'll need to fire yourself out of five Pirate Cannons in different matches to earn 1,000 XP. You can see all of the Buccaneer's Bounty challenges so far below. Fortnite Buccaneer's Bounty Challenges Visit a Pirate Camp in different matches (10) -- Plunder glider Search Buried Treasure (1) -- Pirate Parrot spray Place Top 10 in Squads with a friend -- Banner Shoot yourself out of a Pirate Cannon in different matches (5) -- 1,000 XP In addition to the Buccaneer's Bounty challenges, Week 7's challenges are also now live. This week's tasks run the gamut from visiting three Pirate Camps in a single match to eliminating opponents in named locations and searching chests at Loot Lake or Snobby Shores. Once those are completed, you'll be another step closer to unlocking the Legendary Ruin skin in Week 8.<doc-sep>
Season 8 of Fortnite: Battle Royale brought with it many new things, including changes to the map--among them, the introduction of pirate camps. Just after these were utilized once again for a special, limited-time Buccaneer's Bounty event challenge, Week 7 challenges have come online and again want you to go to a pirate camp. Here's what you need to know and where to go. For the Week 7 challenge, you have to head to three pirate camps in one match. That's not terribly difficult, although given how much traffic they're seeing, you still will need to be careful to ensure you aren't killed before reaching three of them. The first of the four Buccaneer's Bounty challenges is pretty simple: it asks you to visit a pirate cap in different matches 10 times. That means you'll need to play at least 10 matches in order to get it done, but what you're being asked is fairly simple--if you know where the pirate camps are located. Below, you'll find their locations and a map along with some tips regarding the existing challenges that involve the pirate camps. If you haven't already done them, this is an ideal time to double- or triple-dip and knock them all out at the same time. Additional Buccaneer's Bounty challenges will open up over the next few days. For a Week 5 challenge, you'll need to secure three eliminations while inside a pirate camp. This is fairly simple, but your best bet is to hurry to a pirate camp as quickly as possible. Doing so will hopefully allow you to find a weapon before anyone else, giving you the upper hand. You'll only need three kills total, and thankfully, these don't need to be racked up in the same match. To help you out, we've put together a quick guide that will direct you to exactly where these camps are located. Simply use the map below to head to the marked locations. You'll also be able to complete a Week 1 challenge if you haven't already done it; that involves visiting each pirate camp, which might temporarily be a touch more difficult thanks to the newer challenges ensuring you're going to run into kill-hungry players. Fortnite Pirate Camp Locations Northwest of Lazy Lagoon Just south of the volcano Northwest of Paradise palms South of Salty Springs West of Dusty Divot Southwest of Tilted Towers West of Pleasant Park One thing to be aware of with challenges starting in Season 8 is that you can now complete them with friends. Using the Party Assist feature, you can select a challenge so that you and your squadmates contribute progress toward it together. However, this doesn't work in larger team modes, nor does it allow you to work together with strangers who fill your squad. Still, it is a way to speed up the process and hopefully earn rewards more quickly and painlessly. As noted above, Fortnite is now home to an Apex Legends-like respawn system. Deceased teammates in most modes will now drop an item that allows them to be revived at a Reboot Van. While it's very similar to Apex, one key difference is that the revived player is not unarmed when they come back to life, though they don't keep their existing gear and building materials, either.
Suits season 8 Netflix FREE now for the biggest moments from morning TV SUBSCRIBE Invalid email Sign up fornow for the biggest moments from morning TV When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Suits season 8 behind the scenes trailer Suits fans rejoice, the new season of the long-running legal series is back this week. Episode one of season eight will premiere in the US on the USA Network tonight, Wednesday, July 18. Season eight marks the first time the Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle won’t be appearing in the drama as Rachel Zane since marrying Prince Harry earlier this year. A brand new character called Samantha Wheeler played by Grey’s Anatomy actress Katherine Heigl is set to be a huge payer in the upcoming season. SUITS SEASON 8, EPISODE 1 PREVIEW What time will Suits season 8, episode 1 drop on Netflix? Suits season eight episodes will be added to Netflix UK weekly. The show airs on Wednesday nights on the USA Network in the States so will be available the next day on Netflix. New episodes will be available to watch from 8am on Thursday mornings in the UK. Sp episode one will be available to watch on the streaming platform from 8am on Thursday, July 19. Episode two will be dropping on the site on Thursday, July 26 and so forth. SUITS SEASON 8 RELEASE DATE Suits season 8 is back this week This is the same format as other shows which are added weekly to Netflix like Riverdale, Designated Survivor and Better Call Saul. As a rule, 8am is usually the time that new shows are available on the streaming site in the UK, whether they are Netflix Originals or series from other networks. This is because of the time zone difference between the UK and Netflix’s California headquarters. New shows are added to the site at 12.01am Western Time and when it is midnight in San Fransisco it is 8am in London. WILL MEGHAN MARKLE RETURN TO SUITS? Season 8 will be dropping on Netflix weekly What will happen in Suits season 8? Suits season eight is settee pick up from the events of the last run which were a complete game changer for the direction of the show. Now that Rachel and Mike (Patrick J Adams) are gone Pearson Specter Litt will see some big changes. Speaking ahead of the premiere Sarah Rafferty who plays Donna Paulsen said: “Donna is going to be missing Rachel, that’s her best friend and Harvey’s (Gabriel Macht) best is Mike, so these characters are still really with us as we move forward and inform their choices that we made.” Gabriel Macht added: “There so much opportunity for these stories to continue to grow and develop and bring you a whole new world in a way.” DO HARVEY AND DONNA END UP TOGETHER? Sarah Rafferty in season 8 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures Mon, March 26, 2018 Suits series 7: As Meghan Markle and Patrick J Adams prepare to exit the legal drama we take a look at Rachel Zane and Mike Ross' love story so far. Play slideshow USA Network 1 of 19 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures<doc-sep>Suits season 8, episode 2 will be even more explosive FREE now for the biggest moments from morning TV SUBSCRIBE Invalid email Sign up fornow for the biggest moments from morning TV When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they'll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time. Suits season 8 behind the scenes trailer What will happen in Suits season 8, episode 2? Episode two is called Pecking Order and will be airing in America on The USA Network on Wednesday, July 25. Netflix will be releasing the episode on the following day (Thursday, July 26) for British viewers to watch from 8am. A short summary for the next episode in season eight states: “Harvey (played by Gabriel Macht) and Donna (Sarah Rafferty) get their first taste of how Samantha (Katherine Heigl) operates. Alex (Dulé Hill) tries to impress Robert (Wendell Pierce).” Suits has also dropped a short promo for the forthcoming episode which is going to be an explosive one. The trailer starts with a confrontation between the firm’s chief operating officer Donna and Samantha. SUITS SEASON 8 RELEASE DATE “I am on this team now and I have got its best interests at heart,” Samantha tells Donna. But Donna is less than impressed and hits back: “Well, you’ve got a funny way of showing it.” Elsewhere, there is unrest in the firm as Louis Litt (Rick Hoffman) angrily tells Robert and Harvey: “You better pull up a seat for me at that table or I will break that whole goddamn thing in two!” Managing partner Robert in turn is seen blasting Samantha following Louis’ rant. “I asked you to help him not p*** him off!” Robert tells Samantha, who looks annoyed. Harvey also admonishes Samantha: “The next move you’re going to make behind my back is finding yourself a new job.” HOW MANY EPISODES ARE IN SUITS SEASON 8? Suits season 8, episode 2 will be even more explosive Suits season 8, episode 2 will be even more explosive As the title of the episode suggests, it looks like Samantha will be trying to climb up the ranks as she backstabs her colleagues. However, her Machiavellian backstabbing could lead to her downfall and put her job on the line if she continues down this path. The promo comes as Suits made its highly-anticipated return to screens this week following the exit of Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams. Episode one saw no-nonsense attorney Samantha Wheeler embedding herself in the newly-merged firm and putting noses out of joint in the process. Speaking about the joint departure of the long-standing characters, Rafferty told Today: “It was definitely hard to say goodbye but we’re a family, we still have relationships with these people outside of work which is great.” Reflecting on her Suits character, Heigl said: “She’s got this hidden past but she’s fierce and strong-willed and smart and a bit conniving and definitely has an agenda.” WHERE IS SUITS SEASON 8 FILMED? Samantha Wheeler clashes with Donna Paulsen in Suits season 8 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures Mon, March 26, 2018 Suits series 7: As Meghan Markle and Patrick J Adams prepare to exit the legal drama we take a look at Rachel Zane and Mike Ross' love story so far. Play slideshow USA Network 1 of 19 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures<doc-sep>SPOILER ALERT: This story contains details of tonight’s Suits Season 8 premiere. Suits 2.0 launched tonight with the season premiere of USA Network series’ eighth season, the first without original co-stars Patrick J Adams and Meghan Markle. The new opening sequence reflected the new setup — an ensemble legal drama led by Gabriel Macht and a regular cast featuring three original members, Macht, Rick Hoffman and Sarah Rafferty, and three new ones, Katherine Heigl and newly promoted Dule Hill and Amanda Schull. The Season 8 premiere established the battle lines at the newly merged Zane Specter Litt, with Harvey Specter (Macht) and Heigl’s Samantha Wheeler going at each other as part of a wager between Harvey and Robert Zane (Wendell Pierce) over who will be managing partner. And while the managing partner question was answered by the end of the premiere, with Harvey handing the reins to Robert, the episode put Alex and Katrina on a collision course as each had been promised — by Harvey and Robert, respectively — that they would become name partner next. In an interview with Deadline, Suits creator Aaron Korsh talks about the revamp and the impact of Samantha’s arrival, Wendell Pierce’s presence on the show, the conflicts that will be brewing in Season 8, possible new romance (and a baby? ), which characters’ family members will be making an appearance and will Adams’ Mike, Gina Torres’ Jessica, who is headlining her own spinoff series, or Abigail Spencer’s Scottie come back for a visit? Korsh also discusses attending the Royal Wedding between Markle and Prince Harry, the large Suits contingent there and the one guest he was stoked to meet there. Additionally, eight seasons in, Korsh also talks about when the legal series may end. DEADLINE: Let’s start with Robert Zane, who is very prominent in the season premiere and the second episode, and is now managing partner. Will Wendell Pierce be available with his Amazon series Jack Ryan renewed for a second season? Is he in the entire eighth season, at least the summer portion? Photo by: Shane Mahood/USA Network KORSH: Wendell, because he is such a great actor, is in tremendously high demand. If I could have Wendell, I would use him in every episode. Unfortunately, I can’t because he is in such high demand, but the people at Jack Ryan, Amazon and the production, have been incredibly generous with giving us Wendell as much as they have. So, he’s not in every episode, but he’s in most episodes. DEADLINE: I thought that the battle over who’s going to be managing partner would go on for a number of episodes. Why did you decide to resolve that right off the bat in the season premiere? KORSH: In Suits, as it often happens, just because that question is put to bed at the end of the first episode does not mean it will not rear its head again. So Harvey could change his mind and want to be managing partner again, but even in spite of that, even if it is Robert that’s going to be managing partner, they’re still going to disagree over the direction of the firm and decisions that need to be made within the firm, and just because Robert is managing partner doesn’t mean Harvey isn’t going to want to have his way. DEADLINE: What other conflicts will be dividing the partners for the rest of the season? We have Harvey’s promise to Alex that his name would go up on the wall next and Robert’s identical promise to Samantha. Photo by: Shane Mahood/USA Network KORSH: Obviously, they cannot both keep those promises, and that combined with the who’s running the firm, who’s really got the final say, regardless of who is technically managing partner, those things are going to be brewing throughout the season. But I would also say, unlike in some of the previous seasons, there isn’t necessarily just one overarching thing that is going on. This is almost a little bit more like a Season 1, where while all that stuff is going in in the background and definitely is always there, and we do build to a big brouhaha at the end of episode 10, there are a lot of other things that we have room to explore this year, and a lot of that has to do with Robert and Samantha and Alex and Katrina and obviously Harvey, Donna, and Louis. DEADLINE: You made the comparison to Season 1, and to me, having seen the first two episodes, it seems that the show is a lot more procedural this season, with more self-contained, case of the week episodes, like Season 1. Will that continue? KORSH: Look, it is possible that our most procedural episodes were in the first season. I would not describe, necessarily, episode 1 and 2 as that much more procedural, but there is, to some degree, more procedure. I would say, yes, there is, but if you look at Louis’ story in episode 2, it’s not really procedural. It’s a very personal story with Sheila about are they on the same page relationship-wise, and I think even the ones that are a little bit more procedural, they are designed to get to know how, for example, Samantha Wheeler operates. With the procedure in episode 2, Zane is trying to get Harvey to appreciate what he sees in Samantha Wheeler, because he’s made this promise to her. So, the procedure is a vehicle for that, which is a little bit of throwback to season 1. DEADLINE: Speaking of Louis and Sheila, will we have the first Suits baby soon? KORSH: Well, we’re trying. Let me put it this way, Nellie, we’re trying. DEADLINE: You mentioned Samantha Wheeler. It seems like she’s been positioned as Harvey’s new sparring partner. They don’t seem to agree on anything now but will they eventually resemble what Harvey and Mike had as a dynamic? KORSH: I’ve gotten a lot of questions over the last year of “how are you going to replace the bromance with Mike and how are you going to replace the romance of Mike and Rachel with someone or something like that?” To me, I don’t think of it as like anybody is replacing the dynamics of someone else, because they’re different. Harvey and Mike were, to me, like brothers, a big brother and a little brother because there’s a 10-year age difference. So, to me, Samantha Wheeler in no way can be like a little brother to Harvey. Having said that, their push and pull, I just think it’s going to be what it is. I hope to just be good. I don’t need it to replace something or not replace something, because I think it would be tough to replace Mike. It’s more just like instead of Mike, we have a myriad of other new relationships. I really like Samantha’s relationship with Robert Zane and what it does to illuminate his character that obviously they have some sort of history that you don’t know that we will reveal over time. I also like her relationship with Donna, over the course of the 10, and with Alex Williams. We’re basically setting up a competition between her and Alex, and who’s going to get their name up next, and they have a good push-pull. So I love the dynamic she brings. DEADLINE: Samantha and Alex’s rivalry resembles the first season of The Good Wife when Alicia and Cary competed for one opening. Will Samantha and Alex at one point realize that they’re competing for one spot? Photo by: Ian Watson/USA Network KORSH: Yes. They will. It’s going to be stages of that happening because I don’t think it’s that difficult for them each to realize that they’re rivals with each other because they’re basically in the same spot. Episode 1’s title is Right-Hand Man, my script coordinator came up with that title. I thought it was great because it has a triple meaning.<doc-sep>
Suits stars Gabriel Macht and Katherine Heigl Suits trailer promises a ‘steamy’ season 8 Episode one of Suits season eight will be broadcast by The USA Network tomorrow (Wednesday, July 18) in America. Netflix is expected to be dropping the season eight premiere the following day (Thursday, July 19) for British viewers. There will be another 16 episodes in season eight with the show taking a midseason break halfway through. Season eight will mark a change for the show with the joint departure of Meghan Markle as Rachel Zane and Patrick J. Adams as Mike Ross. Grey’s Anatomy actress Katherine Heigl will be joining the firm as bolshy attorney Samantha Wheeler and will be shaking things up with her brash style. SUITS SEASON 8 RELEASE DATE Ahead of season eight, The USA Network shared a short preview giving fans a taster of what’s to come. Speaking in the preview video, actress Sarah Rafferty - who plays Donna Paulsen - explained: “Donna is going to be missing Rachel, that’s her best friend and Harvey’s best is Mike, so these characters are still really with us as we move forward and inform their choices that we made.” She continued: “You could being Suits now with season eight, you could as a new viewer. But our loyal fans will still see their familiar friends, so it’s great.” Harvey Specter star Gabriel Macht added: “There so much opportunity for these stories to continue to grow and develop and bring you a whole new world in a way.” Meanwhile, Rick Hoffman, who portrays hothead lawyer Louis Litt, revealed that there would be a shift in his character and that he would change in the way he handled “certain situations”. WILL MEGHAN MARKLE RETURN TO SUITS? Gabriel Macht talks about Suits season 8 Katherine Heigl is joining as Samantha Wheeler in Suits season 8 Hoffman admitted that Louis and Harvey’s dynamic would also change now that Mike had left the firm. Newcomer Heigl described her character as “smart and charismatic” but confessed that Samantha was coming in to “stir the pot”. We can expect Alex Williams (played by Dulé Hill) and Harvey to be challenged by Samantha and even torn apart as she muscles her way into the firm. Suits creator Aaron Korsh previously said that Samantha would be challenging the “status quo” at the firm. Amanda Schull is going to be taking on a much bigger role as Katrina Bennett and fans will see how her role within the newly-merged firm will play out. DO HARVEY AND DONNA END UP TOGETHER? Sarah Rafferty talks about Suits season 8 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures Mon, March 26, 2018 Suits series 7: As Meghan Markle and Patrick J Adams prepare to exit the legal drama we take a look at Rachel Zane and Mike Ross' love story so far. Play slideshow USA Network 1 of 19 Suits: Mike Ross and Rachel Zane's love story in pictures
"A sarcophagus with this kind of weight and a lid that heavy is made for one reason - to keep whatever spirit in there from ever getting out," a person wrote on Egypt's Ministry of Antiquities (MOA) Facebook page. The trepidation stems from what's known as the 'Curse of the pharaohs'. The most notable is perhaps that attributed to King Tutankhamun - a number of people involved in the excavation of his tomb in 1922 died early deaths in the following decade. MOA says the 20-tonne sarcophagus will be opened in the next couple of days. If the world survives, what happens next will depend on what's inside. "If nothing was found inside the sarcophagus and we did not find any inscriptions on the coffin's body, we will keep it in place until it can be lifted later," MOA spokesman Waad Allah Abu al-Ela told Egypt Independent. It's the largest ancient coffin ever found in the region. One expert told National Geographic its size suggests it contains the remains of someone very important. Another said as it was pretty close to the surface it's likely to date to the Ptolemaic period, which ran from 305BC to 30BC. This post-dates the reign of Alexander the Great, but it's possible the sarcophagus was carried from an earlier resting place to where it was uncovered, two millennia later. But many on social media are hoping for someone who died much more recently. "They open the mysterious black sarcophagus and inside it's David Bowie, alive and well," wrote Twitter user @iucounu, in a post that's been retweeted thousands of times. "He then sets about repairing the timeline using the occult knowledge he won through trickery in the Underworld."<doc-sep>Egyptian archaeologists have discovered a massive 2,000-year-old sealed tomb and now they want to open it to see what (or who) is inside – much to the horror of easily-spooked tweeters. The black granite sarcophagus was uncovered in a tomb deep beneath the Egyptian city of Alexandria in early July. It’s believed to be the largest sarcophagus ever discovered in Alexandria, at 9ft long, 5ft wide and 6ft deep, says Mostafa Waziri, general secretary of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. Look, I realize that by saying this I am dooming myself to be among the first victims of whatever ancient beast emerges from it, but I don't buy the idea that there's anything in that sarcophagus other than a very old mummy. OF COURSE they should open it. — Mike Madden (@MikeMadden) July 17, 2018 The sarcophagus discovery, while intriguing, has raised many questions about why a person would require such a large tomb, what artifacts it could be hiding, and what opening the vault could unleash. An all black sarcophagus was discovered in Egypt. It dates back ~2000 years and was found with an alabaster head. Alexander the Great’s body was never found and was rumored to be buried in this area…. I wonder…? pic.twitter.com/uoXwuCp0wR — abdul (@Advil) July 12, 2018 Egypt after opening that mysterious Black Sarcophagus pic.twitter.com/GQfIX2Tn0U — F.A.C. (@ROTLD_2) July 17, 2018 This is probably fine, and definitely not the thing that happens right before the foolhardy archaeologists ignore the ancient prophesy and unleash our doom.https://t.co/PTmcZfkT8H — Robert McNees (@mcnees) July 11, 2018 READ MORE: The mummy returns: Ancient remains found in ‘empty’ coffin stored for 150 years (PHOTOS) Interestingly, the sarcophagus is also covered in a thick layer of mortar, suggesting it has not been opened since the Ptolemaic period to which it dates back – between 305BC and 30BC. That means whatever is inside; a person, jewelry, clothing and anything else, would still be intact. And that was a fact not well received by some very alarmed netizens. They found this black granite sarcophagus in Alexandria and that’s really cool and all but if the movies have taught me anything…guys…don’t open that. Just don’t. Leave it alone. pic.twitter.com/l770a8hT3T — Catherynne Valente (@catvalente) July 12, 2018 If we've learned anything from every Mummy movie of the last 100 years, its that this sarcophagus must not be opened. https://t.co/aLuliTBBlb — Jeet Heer (@HeerJeet) July 11, 2018 They open the mysterious black sarcophagus and inside it's David Bowie, alive and well. He then sets about repairing the timeline using the occult knowledge he won through trickery in the Underworld — iucounu (@iucounu) July 11, 2018 Also discovered in the tomb was the alabaster head of a man which some believe may represent the person buried in the coffin. Most ancient tombs discovered in Egypt were looted in one era or another, often leaving archaeologists with a limited understanding of the person inside. This untouched artifact gives the eager team a rare opportunity to uncover the mummy for themselves. Some people suggested the sarcophagus coupled with the recent discovery of a Neolithic henge in Ireland is either a sign of an impending apocalypse… or a very extravagant marketing scheme for a new Indiana Jones movie. Mexican earthquake reveals new Mayan Temple, drought shows up massive Neolithic henge in Ireland and then there’s the enormous black sarcophagus found in Egypt. It’s either the end of days or a really cunning promotion campaign for the next Indiana Jones movie — Kate Griffin (@KateAGriffin) July 18, 2018 Black sarcophagus in Egypt. Unknown henge surfacing in Ireland. I dunno, you wait around for ages for an apocalypse and then they all turn up at once. — Adrian Bott (@Cavalorn) July 11, 2018 READ MORE: 5,000yo Irish tomb’s winter solstice magic to be livestreamed (VIDEO) Spooky guesses aside, the greatest hurdle might be figuring out how to open the tomb at all. Estimated to weigh some 30 tons, moving the vault will be no easy feat. Experts will have to either surround it with some protective dirt and lift the entire thing with a bulldozer, or open the coffin in situ and remove the lid and base separately, according to Waad Abul-Ela, head of the projects sector at the Ministry of Antiquities. So as not to cause damage to the contents, archaeologists are considering using X-rays, computed tomography scans or other scientific means to get a glimpse of the inside before opening the lid. Like this story? Share it with a friend!<doc-sep>Egyptian archaeologists are preparing to open a huge black sarcophagus unearthed in Alexandria, the city founded by Alexander the Great and where the legendary conqueror himself may be buried. The almost three-metre long by two-metre high sarcophagus was discovered in a long-concealed tomb below the earth during a survey of a plot of land for a building construction. An alabaster bust, its features eroded over the centuries, was found in the tomb. While the tomb likely belonged to a noble man, not a king, its discovery gave hope to experts who believe that the tomb of Alexander might one day be found in modern Alexandria, which is built on top of ancient city he founded. The Egyptian antiquities ministry said the sarcophagus had remained sealed for more than 2,000 years, with an undisturbed layer of mortar between the lid and the body of the massive stone coffin. Without opening the sarcophagus, there are few clues about the identity of the man entombed inside. His bust is worn beyond recognition and the sarcophagus has no writings to indicate its owner. Archaeologists believe, however, that it belonged to a noble or wealthy man of the Ptolemaic Period, between 323 BC and 30 BC, when Rome seized Egypt following the death of Queen Cleopatra.<doc-sep>
Archaeologists are preparing to open a large black granite sarcophagus unearthed in the Egyptian port city of Alexandria. At almost two metres high and three metres in length, the sarcophagus is the largest of its kind to be discovered intact in the ancient city. It was found alongside a large alabaster head believed to represent the inhabitant of the tomb, which had remained untouched for thousands of years. Alabaster head found in ancient Alexandrian tomb. Photograph: AFP/Getty Images The sarcophagus, discovered during construction work, has become a source of excitement for archaeologists because a layer of mortar between the body and the lid indicates its contents have lain undisturbed since it was buried. It is believed to be from the early Ptolemaic period, which began after the death of Alexander the Great in 323BC. “We are hoping this tomb may belong to one of the high dignitaries of the period,” said Ayman Ashmawy, the head of ancient Egyptian artefacts at the Egypt’s ministry of antiquities. “The alabaster head is likely that of a nobleman in Alexandria. When we open the sarcophagus, we hope to find objects inside that are intact, which will help us to identify this person and their position.” But opening it for the first time will require extensive work to be done in advance. “It’s risky to open it directly – we need to prepare,” said Ashmawy, explaining that the sarcophagus would be opened on site. “It’s difficult to move it intact and open [it] in a museum,” he said. “It’s five metres underground and the whole thing weighs over 30 tonnes. The lid alone is 15 tonnes.” In the coming weeks, a team of engineers will visit the site to provide heavy lifting equipment and structural supports to allow archeologists to remove the sarcophagus lid. Once inside, mummification and restoration specialists will be on hand to ensure the contents, exposed for the first time in millennia, are preserved.
Egypt v Uruguay Betting Tips: Latest odds, team news, preview and predictions With Salah struggling for fitness, Al Hain-Cole is backing La Celeste to easy to victory against Cuper's weakened team in their World Cup opener Egypt and Uruguay will be hoping to get their World Cup campaigns off to a winning start when they come face-to-face at the Ekaterinburg Arena on Friday. The Pharaohs have never won a match in the competition and have qualified for the first time since 1990. Latest Odds With this in mind, they are 6/1 (7.00) outsiders with bet365 to make history by coming out on top in their opening clash. Meanwhile, Oscar Tabarez's team have reached the latter stages in each of the last two editions, and are 8/13 (1.62) favourites to make their experience count by emerging victorious. The African side drew with both the Netherlands and Republic of Ireland in their last World Cup appearance, and you can get odds of 11/4 (3.75) on them starting this campaign with another stalemate 28 years on. Team News Mohammed Salah faces a race against time to prove his match fitness after the shoulder injury sustained in last month's Champions League final, with Ramadan Sobhi likely to take the star man's place should he fail to recover. Arsenal target Lucas Torreira is likely to start on the bench for La Celeste, while Gaston Silva will compete for the left-back spot with the experienced Martin Caceres. Egypt to struggle As the standout star and top-scorer in African qualification, it is hardly an exaggeration to suggest that Egypt's hopes rest mainly on Salah's injured shoulders. Hector Cuper's team scored just a single goal in their three warm-up matches without the Liverpool forward, drawing a blank in their most recent two. Even should Salah be deemed fit to start, he is unlikely to be at his sharpest as he takes on an opposition defence built around Atletico Madrid's solid partnership of Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez. Predictions Having conceded just once in their last five games and boasting the attacking talents of Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani up front, odds of 6/5 (2.20) seem generous on Uruguay proving superior at both ends and winning to nil. Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly. Uruguay to win to nil at 6/5 (2.20) with bet365 for a 2pt stake<doc-sep>Sports Mole provides predicted lineups, team news and a full match preview of the World Cup Group A match between Egypt and Uruguay. Egypt kick off their third World Cup adventure with a match against Uruguay, a nation which has won the tournament twice and hosted its first ever instalment in 1930. The two sides will be hoping to get their Group A campaign off to a positive start as both have been tipped to challenge hosts Russia for the top spot and a more favourable draw in the last-16 of the competition. Egypt © Reuters Hector Cuper's Egypt may have won the Africa Cup of Nations a record seven times, but they are relatively inexperienced when it comes to the World Cup, and that could well be a deciding factor against a seasoned Uruguay side. The Pharaohs are making their first appearance at international football's premier competition since 1990, and they may have to play their opening match without the man who sent them there. Free-scoring Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah buried a dramatic late penalty against Congo last October to fire his country to the finals in Russia, but has been struggling with a shoulder injury since the Champions League final. Inspired by Salah, the Pharaohs qualified for the World Cup as group winners ahead of Uganda, Ghana and Congo with a game to spare, but have struggled in recent fixtures without him. Cuper's men head to the finals on a winless run spanning six matches, although they did impress during a narrow 2-1 defeat to Portugal and a goalless draw with fellow World Cup qualifiers Colombia. Cuper, however, has instilled defensive discipline into his side since taking charge in 2015 and has lost just one match by more than a single-goal margin during his tenure. The Pharaohs' problems at present lie very much at the other end of the field, since they have scored only once in four matches since Salah sustained injury, and that came in a 1-1 draw with Kuwait. Without their talismanic forward, Egypt head into the match against Uruguay as the underdogs and may need to rely on results against Russia and Saudi Arabia to stand any chance of making it through the group stage. Recent form: DLLDDL Uruguay © Reuters As two-time World Cup winners, Uruguay are technically the most successful team in Group A, though it should be pointed out that the last time they lifted the trophy was back in 1950. Their best performance since then was in 2010 when they reached the semi-finals, losing 3-2 to beaten finalists the Netherlands before ending up on the wrong side of the same scoreline against Germany in the third-place playoff. La Celeste are the favourites to top Group A, not least because of their front pairing of Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez, who scored a combined total of 71 goals in 99 matches between them at club level last season. Barcelona forward Suarez has 51 goals in 98 games for his country, and can equal the national record for World Cup strikes if he scores at least three in Russia. On the whole, La Celeste's form is solid heading into the tournament, with just one defeat and three clean sheets in their last six matches. That reverse was a 2-1 loss away to Austria, and Oscar Tabarez's charges have since put it behind them with 3-0 drubbing of Uzbekistan in their final warm-up game. Uruguay have reason to be confident in their opener against Egypt, having never lost to African opposition in a World Cup fixture. Recent form: WDWDLW Team News © Reuters Ahead of kickoff, whether Salah will be fit to take part in the match has dominated the headlines. A number of outlets are reporting that the Uruguay game will come too soon for him, but it sounds like the Liverpool winger could return for one of Egypt's other group games. In Salah's absence, Huddersfield Town's new signing Ramadan Sobhi is likely to make the starting XI, and he will receive support from creative playmaker Abdallah El-Said. Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal is almost certain to be handed a key role in the Pharaohs' midfield, where he will line up alongside Tarek Hamed in what is expected to be a 4-2-3-1 formation. Uruguay, meanwhile, are expected to make minimal changes to the side which defeated Uzbekistan last time out, although winger Cristian Rodriguez is likely to get the nod ahead of Nahitan Nandez. Tabarez has options at left-back but may opt for the experience of Martin Caceres over Gaston Silva. Up front, Cavani is expected to spearhead the attack in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Suarez sitting slightly deep as an advanced playmaker. Rising Sampdoria star Lucas Torreira is likely to start the game on the bench. Egypt possible starting lineup: El Hadary; Abdel-Shafi, Gabr, Hegazy, Ahmed Fathi, Hamed, Elneny, Sobhi, Said, Warda; Mohsen Uruguay possible starting lineup: Muslera; Caceres, Gimenez, Godin, Pereira; Bentancur, Torreira; Rodriguez, Arrascaeta, Suarez; Cavani Head To Head Egypt and Uruguay have met only once before, and that was in an international friendly in 2006. The South American side's current captain Diego Godin scored the opener that day before Abdelzaher El Saqqa put through his own net to condemn the Pharaohs to a 2-0 defeat. We say: Egypt 1-3 Uruguay Egypt have struggled since losing Salah to injury and things will not get any easier for them against a highly-fancied Uruguay side. Between Suarez and Cavani, La Celeste will do damage to their opponents, while the Pharaohs will struggle to find a way past defensive duo Godin and Jose Gimenez without Salah.<doc-sep>
Egypt v Uruguay Friday, 13:00 Live on BBC One Tough opener for Pharaohs Egypt are competing in only their third World Cup and should be coming in with realistic hopes of qualifying from their group. The Pharaohs reached the African Nations Cup final last year and coach Hector Cuper, who has twice taken teams to Champions League finals, has the experience and tactical nous to ensure Egypt are dangerous opponents. Much of their threat obviously comes through Mohamed Salah with the Liverpool forward enjoying an astonishing 44-goal season for the Premier League club. His fitness is a question mark after suffering a shoulder injury in the Champions League final which means he could be held back for their crucial match against Russia. Without their talisman, Egypt's challenge against Uruguay becomes a great deal harder. Uruguay have the talent for extended World Cup run Uruguay have an excellent pedigree in the tournament with two trophy victories and the South Americans could have another extended run in the World Cup this summer. Oscar Tabarez remains in charge of the team after guiding them to fourth place in 2010 and the experienced coach will expect his players to qualify from the group after reaching the last 16 four years ago. There is a huge amount of talent, especially in attack, for Uruguay with a front line of Barcelona's Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani one of the most potent in the competition. But there is also plenty of quality behind them with Atletico Madrid's brilliant defender Diego Godin marshalling the back line. With the ability in their squad, Uruguay should finish top of this modest group and have no excuses for failing to qualify. Favourites well worth backing Uruguay are 1.645/8 favourites for their World Cup opener and you cannot really quibble at this price. With a wealth of experience and several world class players in their side, Uruguay should have too much for their opponents and I expect them to make a winning start. The odds are fair but there are alternative ways of adding value to a Uruguay win. Egypt should not be written off for qualification but this looks a very tough start for the Pharaohs. Salah's fitness remains in doubt and even if he does feature it would be a surprise if he is in peak condition. Egypt are 7.87/1 outsiders for this match but there is little interest in backing them to win for the first time in a World Cup match. The draw is available at 3.7511/4 and this is likely to be a target for Cuper's Egypt. He is expected to set up his team with a defensive strategy designed to frustrate the Uruguayans. That said, the South Americans should have enough firepower to open Egypt up and are fancied to start with a win. Low-scoring Uruguay win looks likely With a defensive gameplan from Egypt anticipated, Uruguay may have to be patient in breaking them down and it could prevent them from recording a big victory. The favourites are backed to claim the win but there could be value in combining this with under 2.5 goals. Uruguay should be able to prevent their opponents from netting and a low-scoring victory could be the most likely outcome. Cavani goal could add value to Uruguay win Cavani was the top scorer in the South American qualifiers with ten goals and the Paris Saint-Germain striker, who scored 37 club goals this season, is worth backing to net in this game. With the new Same Game Multi feature in the Sportsbook, you can get 2.53 on Cavani scoring in a Uruguay win which looks a tempting bet. Follow Simon's bets on Twitter @watfordtipster *** The Racing Post's chief football tipster Mark Langdon provided his best World Cup bets at Betfair's recent Preview Night...
A CELTIC fan hurled vile abuse and "tried to attack" former Rangers favourite Nacho Novo. It came after video footage emerged of the supporter singing "hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo" as he arrived at Belfast international airport. 5 Nacho Novo confronted the Celtic fan who hurled abuse at him Novo was in intensive care earlier this year after suffering from a near-fatal heart attack. The 39-year-old and Celtic supporter confronted each other outside the airport with Novo asking: "Why you disrespect me like that? "What have I f****** done to you?" The man then steps forward and raises his hands to Novo's stomach before replying "on you go son." Sign up for Dream Team 2018/19 now Dream Team is back and better than ever ahead of the new Premier League season ahead of the new Premier League season Completely free to play to play £400k jackpot up for grabs across the season up for grabs across the season REGISTER FOR DREAM TEAM 2018/19 HERE 5 The pair squared up to each other as tempers threatened to boil over 5 Nacho Novo won three league titles with Rangers Credit: PA:Press Association Novo initially took the vile song in good spirits and was seen smiling to the camera but obviously lost his patience with the fan when they stepped outside the airport. Novo took to Twitter to share his version of the story. Responding to the video out the pair outside, he said: "Arrived at Belfast international airport tonight to support the local community for all sides of the divide. "As soon as I walked out of the airport I was surrounded by over Celtic supporters that hurled abuse and tried to attack myself. 5 Nacho Novo initially took the vile chant in good spirits but finally ran out of patience 5 Rangers vs Osijek clash sees mass brawl erupt in streets outside Ibrox before the game "I would like to thank genuine Celtic supporters." Novo is a huge fan favourite at Rangers having made 255 appearances and winning three league titles during his six years at the club. In January he was fighting for his life after suffering a heart attack while playing for a team of Rangers legends in Berlin.<doc-sep>The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Join thousands of others in getting the stories that matter to you sent straight to your inbox. Invalid Email Something went wrong, please try again later. Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice A Belfast football club has said it was unacceptable that former Rangers player Nacho Novo was subjected to sectarian abuse at an airport in the city. Novo confronted a Celtic fan at Belfast International Airport who was singing: "I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo." The incident was filmed and footage posted on social media . A statement from East Belfast FC said: "We feel it essential that we highlight the sectarian abuse and threats made to Nacho Novo. "While travelling to Belfast from Glasgow to support our kids he found himself on a plane with Celtic supporters returning home from their game yesterday and was threatened, abused and disgusting things were also said about his family. "This is not acceptable in this day and age." (Image: Internet Unknown) The Spaniard had travelled to Belfast to attend East Belfast FC academy's prizegiving day for players aged 11 and 12. He suffered a suspected heart attack earlier this year during a tournament in Berlin. The club called on the Police Service of Northern Ireland to investigate. Novo played for east Belfast side Glentoran in 2016-17. East Belfast FC said in a Facebook post: "We would like to express our deep gratitude to Nacho Novo for making his way to Belfast to present all the 06 section with their trophies and also delivering what was an amazing day for many kids connected with East Belfast FC. "Not many sporting heroes go out of their way to travel from another country to do what Nacho did, the smiles on the kids faces spoke a million words and Nacho has promised to continue his support for our club."<doc-sep>The Spaniard initially smiled and appeared to laugh it off, but an angry Novo later confronted the fan outside the airport doors, swearing and demanding to know why he had been "disrespected".<doc-sep>
A man at the centre of a social media storm after he was filmed in a confrontation with former Rangers star Nacho Novo last night expressed his deep regret over the incident. Novo (39) appears in two videos circulating on social media, the first of which shows him walking through arrivals at Belfast International Airport on Saturday as the man in a Celtic tracksuit top sings “I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo”. Novo, who played for Glentoran and is a frequent visitor to Northern Ireland, initially laughs off the abuse. However, in a second clip, taken outside the airport, Novo is seen approaching the man and asking him why he “disrespected” him, saying he had done nothing to deserve the abuse and that he “was not scared of him”. Last night the Celtic fan said he wanted to apologise unreservedly to Novo for his “indefensible behaviour”. He said: “I had been over to watch football and had returned on the same day and I was the worse for drink. That is not an excuse but it is true. I’ve let myself down. “Since the incident went viral, I’ve had an insight into the effects of abusive behaviour. Threats have been made online and I can appreciate how upsetting the original incident was.” Novo, posting on social media later that evening, said: “Arrived at Belfast International Airport tonight to support the local community for all sides of the divide. “As soon as I walked out of the airport I was surrounded by Celtic supporters that hurled abuse and tried to attack myself. I would like thank genuine Celtic supporter.” Novo was left fighting for his life in January after suffering a heart attack while starring in a Rangers legends tournament in Germany. The star received thousands of goodwill messages.
The preseason has arrived! The San Francisco 49ers host the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1 of the preseason.This is your fourth quarter open thread. I’ve included a few helpful links, and also embedded the 49ers media Twitter list if you want to see what the media has to say during the game. NFL.com score center 49ers roster sortable by uniform number, position 49ers depth chart Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA Game time: Thursday, August 9, 7:00 p.m. PT TV channel: NFL Network/KPIX CBS5 locally Online streaming: NFL Game Pass, DirecTV Now, Sling TV (all free 7-day trials) Radio: 680-AM, 107.7 (Bob Fitzgerald, Keena Turner) | Full listings<doc-sep>SANTA CLARA—The San Francisco 49ers welcomed their favorite foe, the Dallas Cowboys to kick off the NFL pre-season on Thursday, August 9 at the gorgeous Levi’s Stadium. Although the Boys struck first, the 49ers rallied from eleven points in the closing minutes, scoring the game winning TD with only 18 seconds remaining in the game, earning a 24-21 victory. On the opening drive, Cowboys Quarterback Dak Prescott looked sharp in limited action. Going 3 for 3 including a 30 yard touchdown strike to rookie wideout, Michael Gallup. The Cowboys lost Tight-End Jason Witten, who retired as well as Wide Receiver Dez Bryant, released this off-season, leaving fans and pundits to wonder who will become Dak’s guy. Prescott is entering his third season, and his support of standing during the National Anthem has angered some fans and players. An artist from Dallas named Trey Wilder painted a giant mural depicting the Cowboys QB, a tear streaming down his eye, with the words, “Get Out.” This is the ugly side of when sports and politics collide, the media assumes every single player ought to have an opinion on every social issue. Football, and sports in general, must remember these games are an opportunity to escape the conflict and divisive nature encompassing Washington D.C. The 49ers first possession proved Head Coach Kyle Shanahan has plenty of work to do. The 49ers gave Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo a huge contract earlier this year. In his only possession, he was 3 for 6 for 34 yards. His best moment was a third down pass to Wide Receiver Marquise Goodwin as the Cowboys defensive line was right about to smother Garoppolo in the turf. Dallas Cowboy Linebacker Jayon Brown was sensational, his lateral speed should restore the D, which was plain awful in 2017. Next week, the 49ers will visit the Houston Texans, where Garoppolo will play a majority of the first half. Pre-season means nothing, try telling that to the five fallen 49ers who went down early with injuries Thursday night. Tight end George Kittle hits the turf, then has a Cowboys defender land on top of him. He left the game with a shoulder injury and did not return. Others to leave Thursday night included defensive end Solomon Thomas (concussion symptoms), offensive tackle Garry Gilliam (concussion symptoms), linebacker Eli Harold (lower leg), running back Matt Breida (shoulder), and linebacker Malcolm Smith (hamstring). After the game, head coach Kyle Shanahan said he didn’t know for sure the extent of every injury, but said of Kittle and Breida, “I have a feeling it could be some time. I’d be surprised if they were around next week. But I didn’t get anything official there, I just know that from the game.” SF 49ers Kicker Robbie Gould trimmed the lead, 14-10 in the third quarter, the Cowboys quickly answered with a 73-yard drive. Culminating with a two yard TD pass, extending the lead to 21-10. The 49ers refused to surrender. Remember for a second, these men are fighting for a spot on the 53 man roster, and frankly, most of them won’t make the team unfortunately. For these third stringers, this is their one shining moment, their Super Bowl if you will, to impress the coaching staff. Case in point, 49ers backup Nick Mullens pulled a Joe Montana comeback out of his hat the final two minutes, scoring two touchdowns, the game winning 1 yard TD pass to Richie James sealed the deal with just with only 18 seconds left. The fans were losing their minds, pace yourself guys and gals, it’s only August. Anytime the 49ers defeat the Cowboys, it’s a big deal.<doc-sep>The preseason has arrived! The San Francisco 49ers host the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1 of the preseason.This is your second quarter open thread. I’ve included a few helpful links, and also embedded the 49ers media Twitter list if you want to see what the media has to say during the game. NFL.com score center 49ers roster sortable by uniform number, position 49ers depth chart Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA Game time: Thursday, August 9, 7:00 p.m. PT TV channel: NFL Network/KPIX CBS5 locally Online streaming: NFL Game Pass, DirecTV Now, Sling TV (all free 7-day trials) Radio: 680-AM, 107.7 (Bob Fitzgerald, Keena Turner) | Full listings<doc-sep>We'll have to wait a little while longer to see Richard Sherman wear a red and gold jersey on game day. Sherman will reportedly sit out the next week of camp, and according to Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area, that means he will also be out for the 49ers' preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Sherman landed in San Francisco on a three-year $39.15 million deal (up to $19 million guaranteed) earlier this offseason. He had previously been cut by the Seahawks, the only team for which he had played during his spectacular seven-year NFL career. The Seahawks elected to cut ties with Sherman after he tore his Achilles down the stretch of the 2017 season. He was having another strong campaign, coming on the heels of five consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, but he was not necessarily still at his peak. Sherman had 26 interceptions from 2012 through 2016, eight more than the next-closest cornerback and four more than the next-closest player overall (safety Reggie Nelson). His 80 passes defensed during that five-year span were second in the NFL to only Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. He had two interceptions and seven passes defensed at the time of his injury last season. The Seahawks have been remaking their defense throughout the offseason, with players like Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, and Kam Chancellor being cast aside in addition to Sherman. The only member left of the Legion of Boom is Earl Thomas, and he is refusing to report to camp as he is locked in a contract stalemate with the team. The 49ers were happy to snatch Sherman up just a day after the Seahawks released him. He seems likely to start across from Akhello Witherspoon in the defensive backfield once the season begins, assuming this hamstring issue does not keep him out for too long.<doc-sep>
Finally! We are heading into game week for the San Francisco 49ers, with them hosting the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday evening. As always, it’s the Cowboys, and we know the history the 49ers have with them. Anytime the 49ers have a chance to do anything to the Cowboys, it’s got me watching TV. Just one problem: It’s preseason. As much as we want to get into the competitive spirit against the Cowboys, that backdrop kind of ruins things a little bit. Still, it’s 49ers, and football. And football, even bad preseason football against a rival where it doesn’t matter is enough to get me tuned in. So I guess now it’s like any other 49ers preseason game: what should we watch for? Personally I’d like to see how Jimmy Garoppolo does in his first series. It’s a coin flip if he even plays, oftentimes teams will rest a good deal of their starters in Week 1 of the preseason, but if we can get a series or two out of Garoppolo, I’d be happy. There is no game planning, but just seeing him calling plays would be nice. Behind him, I’d love to see C.J. Beathard’s development as a quarterback into year two. Beathard got some starting time as a rookie in between the transition from Brian Hoyer to Jimmy Garoppolo and while he was impressive as a rookie, he also showed he was a rookie. Beathard earned the respect of the locker room in his starts, so it will be interesting to see how he is in his second year. Beyond the quarterbacks, show me the wide receivers and the cornerbacks. Both of those groups are young and full of rookies. It will be interesting to see how the young ones do in their first (kinda/sorta) glimpse of in-game action. But again, it’s the Cowboys. So even though I’m looking more at 49ers development, I still would love to see some chaos on the field. Last time the 49ers had the Cowboys in preseason, I got both as I got to watch the 49ers embarrass the Cowboys special teamers with a rugby player who had no idea how to play football. It was not only insightful and enjoyable, but watching the Cowboys players—players who have played football their whole lives—struggle against someone who never played football before was therapeutic. So here we go into a bittersweet preseason week. What are you watching for from the 49ers?
“For a long time, I’ve been wanting to get off my chest my disgust with this idea that every time something tragic happens, no matter what it may be, that in any way touches sports, there’s a chorus of people saying, ‘you know, this really puts it in perspective.’ Which is a bunch of nonsense, because if that was true, we wouldn’t have to have that perspective adjusted every time the next tragedy occurs. It’s a bunch of nonsense,” Costas told “The Dan Patrick Show” that year. “And what I was trying to say was, that if you want some perspective on this, there are a number of issues related to this that we could begin to talk about and think about. The problem was that I didn’t have enough time to get to many of them. And that, I think, was my mistake, to be quite honest, Dan. A friend of mine in broadcasting pointed this out to me yesterday, and I agree with him. He said, ‘you violated your own rule.’ Because we have had this discussion before: I’ve always said, if you’re going to get into touchy topics, nuanced topics, make sure that you have enough time to flesh them out … or save them for forums where you do. In this particular situation, the timeliness of it was, if you’re going to comment on it at all, it had to be this Sunday.”<doc-sep>After nearly four decades, it appears time for a change. Bob Costas, who has worked at NBC since 1979, is in talks to leave the network before his current contract runs out in 2021, according to New York Post's Andrew Marchand. The 66-year-old Costas has had a reduced role at the network the past few years, including ceding his job as Olympics host to Mike Tirico. "There was a very long period of time when NBC's programming suited my interests and abilities very well, from (late-night talk show) Later, to the news magazines, to baseball, the NBA and the Olympics," Costas told USA Today. "And after deciding on my own to leave the Olympics after having done a dozen of them, you just look around and say, 'What was once a perfect fit no longer fits that description.'" He has been more outspoken about football in recent years, opting against hosting the Super Bowl preview show and noting at a speaking engagement that the game "destroys people's brains." Of course the NFL and NBC have quite the partnership, and that contract runs through 2022. Costas also calls games for MLB Network, and plans to continue doing that. The longtime broadcaster has hopes of still doing "thoughtful discussions, reasonable commentaries and essays," something that could appear on subscription platforms like HBO or Netflix.<doc-sep>Bob Costas is in talks to leave NBC. Only the peacock has served NBC Sports longer. Costas, his representatives and NBC have held discussions that could result in the longtime face of NBC Sports being let out of a contract that currently runs through 2021, a person with knowledge of the conversations told USA TODAY Sports. The person requested anonymity because of the sensitive nature of the discussions. NBC declined to comment on Costas’ potential departure. Costas declined to comment on the specifics but offered some general comments in a pair of brief phone calls with USA TODAY Sports. “There was a very long period of time when NBC’s programming suited my interests and abilities very well, from (late-night talk show) Later, to the news magazines, to baseball, the NBA and the Olympics,” Costas said. “And after deciding on my own to leave the Olympics after having done a dozen of them, you just look around and say, ‘What was once a perfect fit no longer fits that description.’ ” Costas, 66, has worked at NBC since 1979 in starring roles as lead announcer on the Olympics, World Series and Super Bowls. More recently, he took on a sort of emeritus role at NBC Sports — of the sort that Tom Brokaw fills for NBC News — where he is on air mainly for major news events, such as the death of Muhammad Ali. “It would be as if NBC suddenly lost the rights to hockey,” Costas said. “They wouldn’t think any less of Mike Emrick, and he wouldn’t think any less of them, but he’d have to go find a place to do what he does best.” By that, Costas doesn’t mean baseball. He already broadcasts games for the MLB Network. The New York Post, which first reported the talks between Costas and NBC, reported that Costas wants to pursue a journalism show that includes news-making interviews and commentaries, some of which might extend beyond sports. That’s the sort of show that might appeal to pay networks such as HBO and Showtime, or streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon. Costas declined comment on those possibilities, but he is known for outspoken commentary. He spoke at the University of Maryland in 2017 and said of football: “The reality is that this game destroys people’s brains.” The NFL is a business partner with NBC on Sunday Night Football, which has been the top-rated program in prime time for the last seven seasons. Costas was at home Tuesday fighting a head cold. He cited “a great deal of mutual appreciation for everything that I was a part of at NBC for nearly 40 years.” MORE:Bob Costas on the future of football: 'This game destroys people's brains'<doc-sep>
Bob Costas is in talks to negotiate an early exit from his contract at NBC Sports, where he has had a sparse presence on air during the past two years, according to a report published Tuesday by USA Today. An NBC employee for nearly 40 years, Costas’ current deal with NBC runs through 2021. NBC declined to comment while Costas could not immediately be reached for comment. Costas in 2017 announced his retirement from NBC Sports’ Olympics coverage. He has also stopped covering NFL games amid his growing criticism of the toll the game takes on brains and bodies of pro football players. Those decisions have left Costas with little to cover for the Peacock. Costas did not comment on his status at NBC. But he did tell USA Today that he was interested in seeking other opportunities. “There was a very long period of time when NBC’s programming suited my interests and abilities very well, from (hosting the 1988-93 late-night talk show) ‘Later,’ to the news magazines, to baseball, the NBA and the Olympics,” Costas told USA Today. “And after deciding on my own to leave the Olympics after having done a dozen of them, you just look around and say, ‘What was once a perfect fit no longer fits that description.’ ” There’s speculation Costas could be a fit with an interview series for Netflix, HBO or another streaming platform. Costas is a 28-time Emmy winner who is known for his outspoken views and in-depth coverage of sports and its impact on culture.
Democratic presidential hopeful Andrew Yang made the case for an ombudsman to monitor malicious speech in the US. "We have to be able to sort out people who are maliciously informing the American people and that to me is a much greater danger than we face now," he said. He brought up the UK and how it monitors certain speech. Yang said they had something equivalent to an ombudsman, where complaints are filed and taken under review. "So if they can do that, why can't we?" Yang asked. Yang said foreign actors are investing money to maliciously doctor information to corrupt US democracy and "then frankly having a good laugh about it." "Right now we're on the verge of a difficult time. So Americans can't trust what we see," he said.<doc-sep>With astonishing speed, a near-total unknown has climbed to the top ranks of the Democratic presidential primary: Andrew Yang. Yang, a startup veteran and founder of the nonprofit Venture for America who has never run for elected office before, has made a $12,000-per-year basic income for all American adults the centerpiece of his campaign. He averages 1 to 2 percent in public opinion polls, but as of this writing, he’s surged on prediction markets, with bettors giving him better odds than Beto O’Rourke or Amy Klobuchar. Some of that momentum can be traced to his appearance on comedian Joe Rogan’s wildly popular podcast (the above YouTube clip of his appearance has more than 2 million views). After his appearance on the show, small donations started to stream in. As of early March, Yang had exceeded 65,000 donors, thus clearing a threshold the Democratic National Committee has set for eligibility in the first two debates. Was considering celebrating hitting 65,000 donations by flossing but found out it wasn’t cool anymore. Thank you all for getting us this far! pic.twitter.com/7j7aAm6tvS — Andrew Yang (@AndrewYangVFA) March 11, 2019 His campaign manager, Zach Graumann, told the Daily Beast that the campaign had already obtained at least 200 donors per state in at least 20 states, clearing another DNC threshold. “Everything is up and to the right since the Joe Rogan podcast. That was the key. That was the moment,” Graumann told the Daily Beast’s Sam Stein and Will Sommer. Achieving mass popularity through interview podcasts — Yang has also appeared on Sam Harris’s show, Freakonomics, and Vox’s Ezra Klein Show — is not a traditional path to a successful campaign. Nor are appearances on Tucker Carlson’s Fox News program the norm in a Democratic primary. But as was seen in the 2016 election, a lot can happen when an unexpected person does well in a debate. Exceeding expectations — whether on a debate stage or a podcast — can build name recognition and can help candidates who are strikingly different from the rest of their field (like Donald Trump or Bernie Sanders) stand out. And successful or not, Yang is a fascinating cultural phenomenon. He blends a traditionally left-wing platform (a mass expansion of the safety net and a big new value-added tax, or VAT, to pay for it) with massive appeal to the young, predominantly male, and, in their unique way, socially conservative audiences of people like Joe Rogan and Sam Harris. This meme, showing an angry, MAGA hat-wearing Trump supporter transforming into a blissful, basic income-enjoying Yang backer, is a good illustration of how certain Reddit/4chan denizens think Yang’s message will penetrate on the right: Found this on the Yang subreddit. Could someone explain to me why Trump fans would turn into Yang fans? pic.twitter.com/zqZVNPReiz — JD-800 (@thejd800) March 7, 2019 Indeed, Yang is already winning the 2020 meme wars by a wide margin, and on the strangest accounts: Did Trump just lose the 2020 meme war? Memers flock to @andrewYangVFA's campaign centered around AI mass job loss requiring universal basic income (UBI) after mentions on @JoeRogan and @WikiLeaks. See #Yanggang and #yanggang2020 for thousands of examples. pic.twitter.com/n7vxeMN4l2 — WikiLeaks (@wikileaks) March 8, 2019 4chan is a particularly prominent hotbed for the Yang Gang, which could cause his campaign some problems given the site’s popularity among some white nationalists; one backer posted an innocuous tweet from Yang about the opioid crisis with the caption “Andrew Yang cares about white people.” Yang, of course, totally rejects support from white nationalists. But the mainstream Yangsters who make memes? He’s a fan. “If you excise any racist white nationalist, bigotry leanings, I find the whole thing hysterical,” Yang told me in a phone call, audibly laughing. “You know what I mean? Imagine seeing your face on dragons and whatnot. The whole thing is funny.” He continued, “I wish I could just jump up and down about how funny it is, but obviously there’s an element of it that’s intertwined with some terrible beliefs. Anyone who spends, like, five seconds looking into me or my background or my beliefs or my platform would be like, ‘This guy is the least white nationalist dude ever.’” Message received! So what does Yang stand for — and what does his online success mean for the 2020 race going forward? Who is Andrew Yang? Yang, 44 and the son of Taiwanese immigrants, worked as a corporate lawyer (“for five unhappy months,” he told Klein) after Brown and Columbia Law, before going into startups. His first one was called Stargiving and aimed to “raise money for celebrity-affiliated nonprofits,” Yang writes in his book Smart People Should Build Things, a kind of unofficial manifesto for his nonprofit Venture for America, which places recent grads of elite schools in startups in cities like Detroit and Baltimore. “It was extraordinarily difficult. My company failed spectacularly, but I recovered,” he writes. “I went to work for a mobile software company, Crisp Wireless, and then a health care software company, MMF Systems, over the next five years, eventually becoming the CEO of a test-prep company, Manhattan GMAT, in 2006,” he continues. Manhattan GMAT is now known as Manhattan Prep, and has expanded from offering prep for the GMAT (the standard business school admissions test) to offering GRE and LSAT prep as well. A few years after Yang took over, the test prep giant Kaplan (owned by the then-named Washington Post Company) bought Manhattan Prep. In 2011, Yang started Venture for America (VFA), an effort to try to prevent elite colleges and universities from funneling graduates toward safe options (like jobs in finance, management consulting, or big law) by enlisting teams of fellows to move to cities across America and work for local startups. As detailed in a 2013 New York Times profile, the group offers recent graduates a five-week boot camp on entrepreneurship, and then sets them up with startup jobs at companies that “must be less than 10 years old and employ less than 100 people. Starting salaries are $33,000 to $38,000.” The target fellows are people from selective schools who could easily be making six figures at other jobs straight out of college. The profile, by Hannah Seligson, paints VFA as a darling of wealthy startup founders like Tony Hsieh of Zappos (based in Las Vegas, a VFA city) and Dan Gilbert of Quicken Loans (based in Detroit, another VFA city). And if you read Smart People Should Build Things, that cultural milieu shines through. It’s not the work of a radical socialist firebrand. It speaks the language of startup founders and TED talk speakers, and directly targets an audience of fellow elite college grads in service of trying to spread economic growth more evenly across the US. “We’re using educational attainment as an imperfect proxy for ‘smart’ and talking about people who get tracked, sorted, and aggregated throughout their adolescence into various universities and courses of studies,” Yang writes in the introduction. And, unsurprisingly given his organization’s name, “Venture for America,” the book largely equates creating value in overlooked parts of the US with starting businesses there. Examples Yang touts include Kickboard, a VFA partner company “that provides a software application to help teachers track student performance,” and ShapeUp, which “helps individuals promote health and wellness through social networking and goal measurement.” “People and companies around the country are solving real problems right now,” Yang concludes, and those kinds of firms are what he means. The Freedom Dividend: Yang’s universal basic income plan The centerpiece of Yang’s campaign is his call for a universal basic income (UBI) that he calls the Freedom Dividend (he told Klein, in a bit of characteristic bluntness, that he calls it that because it “tests better” as a term than “universal basic income”). The Freedom Dividend, outlined in Yang’s second book The War on Normal People, is a $1,000-per-month (or $12,000-per-year) check mailed to every adult American age 18 to 64, no strings attached. It’s a pure universal basic income, with no phaseouts for top earners or work requirements.<doc-sep>CEO of ADL: Seeing a 'blitzkrieg of anti-Jewish' acts across US 'Stay out': Fulton County official reacts to potential GOP visit during audit Dana Bash: This is so telling about where the Republican party is NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 24: Trump Tower stands on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on August 24, 2018 in New York City. Following new allegations over hush money that former Trump attorney Michael Cohen paid to an adult-film actress, the Manhattan district attorneyÕs office in New York City may seek criminal charges against the Trump Organization in the coming days. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Why GOP is standing in the way of Capitol riot investigation WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 08: US Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John Warner (R-VA) remarks on the resignation of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld at the US Capitol November 8, 2006 in Washington, DC. Warner said he supports President George W. Bush's nomination of former CIA Director Robert Gates for Secretary of Defense. Warner said he anticipates Gates' confirmation before the end of the year. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), joined by Senate Assistant Minority Leader John Thune (R-SD) (L) and Senate Minority Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO), speaks following a Senate Republican Policy luncheon at the Russell Senate Office Building on May 18, 2021 in Washington, DC. Hear what Matt Gaetz said about Paul Ryan before his speech Former GOP senator: If McConnell said this, 'it's shameful' 'Some people have no shame': Biden calls out GOP lawmakers with list 2020 hopeful wants holograms to campaign in multiple cities (CNN) — Democratic presidential hopeful Andrew Yang is taking campaigning to new heights, recently unveiling his plan to use a 3D hologram to campaign remotely in two or three places at once. Yang revealed his campaign strategy on “TMZ Live” Wednesday, appearing in a video alongside a hologram of rapper Tupac Shakur. Me trying out being a hologram with hologram Tupac 👍 pic.twitter.com/IclQvAa27z — Andrew Yang🧢🗽🇺🇸 (@AndrewYang) April 11, 2019 “I was doing a demo of what a hologram would consist of in order to send the hologram me to campaign in Iowa and other battleground states,” Yang explained. Yang, who has centered his campaign around a universal basic income plan, said his team is working with a hologram company and may debut his 3D image as early as June, according to the Carroll Times Herald. “We are exploring rolling a truck out that would enable someone to see a hologram of me that is three-dimensional give my stump speech,” Yang told the newspaper. “And, also, if I were in a studio, which we could set up very easily, I could beam in and take questions live.” Yang told the Carroll Times Herald the 3D hologram is a “fun way” to be in multiple places at once but also ties to his presidential message that times are changing. “We can’t just keep doing the same things over and over again and expect it to achieve the results we need,” Yang said. Despite his new campaign approach, Yang told the newspaper he plans to continue scheduling in-person campaign stops. CNN has reached out to Yang’s presidential campaign for comment.<doc-sep>
NEW YORK, NY - AUGUST 24: Trump Tower stands on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on August 24, 2018 in New York City. Following new allegations over hush money that former Trump attorney Michael Cohen paid to an adult-film actress, the Manhattan district attorneyÕs office in New York City may seek criminal charges against the Trump Organization in the coming days. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 08: US Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John Warner (R-VA) remarks on the resignation of Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld at the US Capitol November 8, 2006 in Washington, DC. Warner said he supports President George W. Bush's nomination of former CIA Director Robert Gates for Secretary of Defense. Warner said he anticipates Gates' confirmation before the end of the year. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), joined by Senate Assistant Minority Leader John Thune (R-SD) (L) and Senate Minority Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO), speaks following a Senate Republican Policy luncheon at the Russell Senate Office Building on May 18, 2021 in Washington, DC. Editor’s Note: On Sunday, April 14, at 7 p.m. ET, CNN will host a town hall with Andrew Yang, an entrepreneur, former ambassador for global entrepreneurship under the Obama administration and 2020 presidential candidate. The views expressed in this commentary are his own. View more opinion on CNN. (CNN) — I never thought I’d run for president. My parents were immigrants to this country – and leader of the free world was not on the list of careers presented to me as a skinny Asian kid growing up in upstate New York. Instead, I became a lawyer for five unhappy months and then an entrepreneur. In 2011, I started a nonprofit organization, Venture for America, to help bring talented young entrepreneurs to create thousands of jobs in Detroit, Cleveland, St. Louis, Birmingham, Baltimore and other cities around the country. I chose those cities because there I experienced the aftermath of automation and witnessed the devastating effect it had on people’s lives. And then Donald Trump became President. Clara Lu Andrew Yang For Americans who are still trying to figure out why Trump is President, the answer is simple – we automated away millions of manufacturing jobs in the Midwest, and Trump spoke directly to the fear and anger of those voters. He promised them that he would restore those jobs – a promise on which he has notably failed to deliver. Here’s the reality, though: The financial crisis of 2008 brought our 14 million manufacturing jobs (itself a low plateau from the 17 million in 2000) down to 11.4 million, and 10 years of expansion has only brought us back up to 12.8 million. But what happened to manufacturing workers will soon happen to retail workers, call center workers, fast food workers, truck drivers and others, as the next Industrial Revolution takes hold of our economy. Bain, a leading consulting firm, projects automation will disrupt jobs at about three times the rate of the Second Industrial Revolution, which sparked thousands of strikes and mass riots at the turn of the 20th century. If you doubt that this is already happening, consider that America’s labor participation rate (the ratio of people who are working compared to the total population aged 16 and over) today has fallen to 63%, about the same level as Ecuador and Costa Rica. In the US, almost one out of five prime, working age men have not worked in the past year, and our life expectancy has declined for the past three years, in part due to surges in drug overdoses and suicides. This is before a projected 33% of American malls and retail stores may be forced to shutter their doors, and it might not be long before truck drivers are replaced with self-driving trucks. The challenge for the Democratic Party is to solve the problems that got Trump elected. However, when I went to Washington in 2017 to meet with lawmakers on this issue, no one wanted to touch automation and the changing state of our economy. But here’s the reality: We are undergoing the greatest economic transformation in our history, and we are dealing with it by pretending nothing is happening. I have two young children, and I have no intention of leaving the country in shambles for them. We need to wake up to the fact that it is not immigrants who are causing economic dislocations.
Following the Mets’ win over the Yankees in the opening game of the Bronx edition of the Subway Series, Yoenis Cespedes told reporters that the root of all of his health issues over the past couple of years has been calcification in both of his heels. Cespedes added that surgery could be necessary for the problem and would come with an expected 8-to-10 month recovery time. Acquired by the Mets at the trade deadline in 2015, Cespedes has been nothing short of outstanding since joining the team. The biggest issue for him over the last calendar year-plus has been staying on the field and off the disabled list, but in total—coming into the Friday night game—he’s played 307 games for the Mets with a .281/.345/.541 line and a 137 OPS+. In 2016, Cespedes played 132 games as the Mets earned a spot in the National League Wild Card game, but last year, he played in just 81 games. And so far this year, he’s played in 38 games—including the Friday night victory.<doc-sep>The Mets have a small army of doctors, physical therapists and conditioning coaches at their disposal, along with being affiliated with the Hospital for Special Surgery, one of the best orthopedic treatment facilities on the planet. Yet somehow, Yoenis Cespedes still was to able to shock everyone late Friday night by saying that he’s suffering from twin-heel “calcifications,” a condition that he insisted needs surgery to fix and would require eight to 10 months of rehab. After hearing this, and then listening to Mickey Callaway stunningly claim to be unaware of Cespedes’ bombshell the very next morning — at his regularly scheduled, daily media briefing — we don’t know which is worse: The Mets mistakenly operating under the belief that Cespedes could play through his debilitating heel issues, or not knowing the longer-term severity of his medical problem. Either one reflects poorly upon the organization, and the bad optics of the Cespedes situation only got worse Saturday, with the Mets letting Callaway fend for himself at the microphone. Not a great strategy. Callaway has enough on his plate without having to play doctor at his news conferences. But the Mets refused to make any of their three acting GMs available Saturday to address the Cespedes issue, choosing to punt until Sunday afternoon, when John Ricco is expected to provide some answers about the slugger’s prognosis before the Subway Series finale in the Bronx. No wonder this has spiraled into the mess it’s become. A day after returning from the disabled list, and then going back on the bench, Cespedes was unavailable to be used as a pinch hitter Saturday in a situation that was begging for him during a ninth-inning rally in the Mets’ 7-6 loss to the Yankees. Afterward, Callaway said that maybe he could play Sunday (we say no chance) — but wouldn’t see a specialist or get an MRI until early next week. Aside from being totally backward, how could Cespedes be allowed on the field again before getting further medical clearance? And why did he get green-lighted in the first place? “We thought his heels were in a really good spot coming in or wouldn’t have activated him,” Callaway said. “So he was good to go.” Subscribe to Newsday’s sports newsletter Receive stories, photos and videos about your favorite New York teams plus national sports news and events. By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy. Apparently not. When Callaway stepped to the podium at 10:30 Saturday morning, the first question lobbed at him was predictable: What was his reaction to Cespedes’ surgery-related comments from the previous night? His response was hard to believe. Or not, considering the Mets. “I didn’t get to read any of the stuff he said or hear it, so, you know, I’m not quite exactly sure of what he said,” Callaway said. “I just know that he came in pretty sore today and we’re not going to start him.” It’s not that we always expect Callaway to pick up a newspaper on his own or check out a few web sites before facing a few dozen media members. But there’s no way the Mets could have allowed him to sit in that chair without briefing him first, and playing dumb is never a good look for a manager — even if Callaway was advised to do so. And would it be too outlandish for Callaway to maybe check in with Cespedes to get his side of the story beforehand? This was an epic fail all-around, and not just from a PR standpoint. Nine weeks on the DL, under the scrutiny of all those medical personnel, and Cespedes can just spring that heel disaster on everyone at his locker, seemingly out of the blue? Truth is, the heel condition is hardly a new ailment, despite the Mets describing his injuries as everything from hamstrings to quads to hip flexors. It’s all part of the same kinetic chain, and the lingering heel problem has been in the background throughout. A year ago, Sandy Alderson made the first reference to Cespedes’ sore heels. Earlier this month, on July 6, Ricco said that his chronic issues were heel-related more than anything else. Despite being inserted back into the lineup Friday night at DH, and homering in his second at-bat, Cespedes complained of his heels hurting midway through the 7-5 victory over the Yankees. That frustration is likely why Cespedes lashed out at his locker afterward, complaining of the social-media perception that he wasn’t trying hard enough to come back from the DL. “It’s bad that you’re doing your best and working hard every day and people are saying things that are not correct,” Cespedes said late Friday night through his interpreter. “I am not going to go down and lower my level to their level.” Maybe Cespedes felt pressured to return despite still feeling pain, and one source said Saturday that he’s been dealing with the heel condition for the past year. Cespedes has played in only 46 percent of the Mets’ games since they made him the sport’s highest-paid outfielder with that four-year, $110-million contract, so that’s not ideal for the organization either. The Mets weren’t supposed to be having these embarrassingly high-profile medical episodes anymore. But if dysfunction is a disease, this franchise is a long, long way from finding a cure.<doc-sep>Mike Stobe/Getty Images New York Mets outfielder Yoenis Cespedes said Friday that he is considering offseason surgery to repair calcification in both of his heels, according to SNY's Steve Gelbs. Cespedes added that surgery is the only way to fix his issues, although it will take eight to 10 months to recover. When asked if he can make it through the remainder of the 2018 season, he said he didn't know. On Friday, Cespedes played in his first game since May 13. He went 2-for-4 with a home run in a 7-5 win over the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. The 32-year-old has been limited throughout the 2018 campaign with a hip injury that caused an extended stretch on the disabled list. He also had problems with his quad after a wrist injury slowed him down in spring training. A hamstring injury ended his 2017 season after just 81 games. Considering he missed 30 contests in 2016 as well, this hasn't been a positive trend for a veteran player. His performance has also been up and down in 2018 even when on the field, as he's produced a .262 batting average to go with nine home runs and 29 RBI in 38 games. Video Play Button Videos you might like Of course, the slugger is a game-changing player when he is at his best. He earned MVP votes in each of his first two seasons with the Mets and has two All-Star selections, one Gold Glove and one Silver Slugger award. Although his injury problems have led to more at-bats for younger outfielders such as Michael Conforto and Brandon Nimmo, New York will hope the highest-paid player on the roster can figure out how to stay healthy.<doc-sep>
Rich Schultz/Getty Images New York Mets manager Mickey Callaway said Saturday he feels bad for outfielder Yoenis Cespedes since it's been "extraordinarily tough for him to be on the field" because of lingering injuries. Anthony DiComo of MLB.com passed along comments from the Mets skipper after Cespedes hinted Friday he could need surgery to alleviate long-term heel pain. "That's concerning," Callaway said. "I feel bad for the guy. He has worked so hard. If you see the stuff he has to go through to get back—he worked so hard this winter. We talked about everything that he tried to do to put himself in a good spot to come out and be healthy for the team." Cespedes, who returned Friday from a nine-week stay on the disabled list because of hip and quad issues, said he's not sure he'll be able to finish the season, per DiComo. Heel surgery would lead to a recovery timetable of eight to 10 months. The 32-year-old Cuba native played 159 games split between the Mets and Detroit Tigers in 2015 and appeared in 132 contests during his first full season in New York. He's struggled to stay on the field over the last two years, though. He played 81 games last season and has made just 38 appearances so far in 2018. Video Play Button Videos you might like "I realize what is causing my problems are my heels," Cespedes told reporters through a translator Friday. "When I feel some pain on my heels, I started to modify my walking, my running, even my standing. That's the main cause I am having [of] these problems in my leg." If he's planning to undergo surgery, the Mets would likely be better off if he had the procedure soon. They are already fading from this year's playoff race with a 40-55 record, and the projected timetable could put him on track to potentially return for Opening Day next year. If Cespedes waits until the offseason, he'd likely remain sidelined until at least May and possibly all the way through the 2019 All-Star break before rejoining the lineup.
Image 1 of 16 Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 2 of 16 Anthony Roux (Groupama-FDJ) takes the sprint for third (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 3 of 16 Bauke Mollema, Julian Alaphilippe and Anthony Roux on the podium in San Sebastian (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 4 of 16 Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 5 of 16 Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 6 of 16 Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) celebrates on the podium (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 7 of 16 Anthony Roux (Groupama-FDJ) takes the sprint for third (Image credit: Getty Images) Image 8 of 16 Stunning scenes at the Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 9 of 16 The bunch during the 2018 Clasica San Sebastian (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 10 of 16 The bunch during the 2018 Clasica San Sebastian (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 11 of 16 The 2018 Clasica San Sebastian gets underway (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 12 of 16 Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 13 of 16 Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 14 of 16 Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 15 of 16 Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Image 16 of 16 The peloton roll through at the Clasica San Sebastian 2018 (Image credit: Tim de Waele/Getty Images Sport) Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) carried his superb Tour de France form into this weekend, winning the San Sebastian Classic after a two-up sprint with Bauke Mollema (Trek Segafredo). The pair escaped on the final climb of the race and were never in danger of being caught by a chase group that contained many of the other pre-race favourites. Alaphilippe and Mollema established a 30-second lead inside the final 8km of racing and the Frenchman controlled the sprint from start to finish, with Mollema forced to settle for second. Anthony Roux (FDJ) finished third. The race was overshadowed by a crash with just under 20km remaining. Both Egan Bernal (Team Sky) and Mikel Landa (Team Movistar) were placed in neck-braces and taken to hospital. For Alaphilippe the win cemented his ever-growing reputation as one of cycling's most multi-talented riders. The Frenchman won two stages and the king of the mountains jersey at the Tour de France, and can came into San Sebastian as a leading contender. "I knew that the race suited my characteristics, but I honestly didn’t expect to win today," Alaphilippe said. "I didn’t feel very good, as I was tired after a long and hard Tour de France, but stayed focused in the final and made my effort at the right time, using the last climb as launch pad. "I want to say a big thank you to my teammates, who protected and helped me throughout the day, believing in my chances. I am very happy after this win, because San Sebastian is a special race which I like a lot and it means a lot to conclude this part of the season with another beautiful victory." The race effectively came down to a battle on the final climb after several early breaks were neutralised thanks to work from BMC Racing, Astana, Trek Segafredo and Bahrain Merida. The penultimate ascent of the Arkale softened up the remnants of the main bunch but it was Mollema - a previous winner - and his Trek teammates who took control on the final climb of Murgil Tontorra. The Dutchman's team thinned out the bunch to less than 20 riders before Astana moved to the front. However, it was LottoNL Jumbo's talented young climber Antwan Tolhoek who created the first significant split with Rudy Mollard the only rider able to match the young Dutchman as the road began to rise to over 15 per cent. Bahrain Merida looked to bring the pair back but with the leaders in sight, Mollema made his attack and quickly moved into the race lead. Just as the Dutchman looked to be in ascendancy Alaphilippe made contact, with a trailing Van Amermaet and the rest of the bunch unable to respond. "I felt good," Mollema said. "But then on the top Alaphilippe was with me. We worked well together – it was one kilometer flat at the top, so we went pretty fast there and had a big gap already. And then we went down also fast and then it was just the two of us, but you know he is also fast in the sprint. I tried to hang on a bit and let him do the work the last 2kms especially, but still, he was faster than me." The leading duo established a 15-second lead at the top of the climb and that soon doubled thanks to their combined efforts on the descent, and a lack of collaboration from the chasers. With the line in view, Alaphilippe moved to the front before using his convincing sprint to take another impressive win. If you've ever wanted to know what it feels like to be part of a top-level cycling team, and to be on the ground, inside the barriers, at the Tour de France, then RUNNING WITH WOLVES will take you there. It is available to rent for $3.99 USD or buy for $6.99 USD. You can also still purchase our first two films, THE HOLY WEEK and CRESCENDO, on Vimeo. RUNNING WITH WOLVES from Cyclingnews Films on Vimeo, produced by La Pédale and a special thanks to Quick-Step Floors. Full Results # Rider Name (Country) Team Result 1 Julian Alaphilippe (Fra) Quick-Step Floors 6:03:45 2 Bauke Mollema (Ned) Trek-Segafredo 3 Anthony Roux (Fra) Groupama-FDJ 0:00:16 4 Greg Van Avermaet (Bel) BMC Racing Team 5 Julien Simon (Fra) Cofidis, Solutions Credits 6 Rigoberto Uran (Col) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale 7 Ion Izagirre (Spa) Bahrain-Merida 8 Robert Gesink (Ned) LottoNL-Jumbo 9 Steven Kruijswijk (Ned) LottoNL-Jumbo 10 Antwan Tolhoek (Ned) LottoNL-Jumbo 11 Rudy Molard (Fra) Groupama-FDJ 0:00:20 12 Daniel Martin (Irl) UAE Team Emirates 0:00:43 13 Toms Skujins (Lat) Trek-Segafredo 0:00:48 14 Igor Anton (Spa) Dimension Data 0:00:49 15 Daryl Impey (RSA) Mitchelton-Scott 0:00:51 16 Viacheslav Kuznetsov (Rus) Katusha-Alpecin 17 Diego Ulissi (Ita) UAE Team Emirates 18 Pello Bilbao (Spa) Astana Pro Team 19 James Knox (GBr) Quick-Step Floors 20 Jelle Vanendert (Bel) Lotto Soudal 21 Nicolas Edet (Fra) Cofidis, Solutions Credits 22 Alex Aranburu Deba (Spa) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA 23 Pieter Serry (Bel) Quick-Step Floors 24 Omar Fraile (Spa) Astana Pro Team 0:00:52 25 Mikel Nieve (Spa) Mitchelton-Scott 26 Jonathan Castroviejo (Spa) Team Sky 0:01:13 27 Steve Morabito (Swi) Groupama-FDJ 28 Julien Bernard (Fra) Trek-Segafredo 29 Simon Clarke (Aus) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale 30 Daniel Martinez (Col) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale 31 Jack Bauer (NZl) Mitchelton-Scott 0:01:40 32 Jay McCarthy (Aus) Bora-Hansgrohe 0:02:22 33 Nikita Stalnov (Kaz) Astana Pro Team 34 Jan Polanc (Slo) UAE Team Emirates 35 Kristijan Durasek (Cro) UAE Team Emirates 36 Anthony Perez (Fra) Cofidis, Solutions Credits 37 Ilnur Zakarin (Rus) Katusha-Alpecin 38 Sergio Pardilla Bellon (Spa) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA 39 Daniel Navarro Garcia (Spa) Cofidis, Solutions Credits 40 Rémi Cavagna (Fra) Quick-Step Floors 41 Andrey Amador (CRc) Movistar Team 42 Aleksandr Riabushenko (Blr) UAE Team Emirates 0:03:32 43 Nicholas Schultz (Aus) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA 44 Hermann Pernsteiner (Aut) Bahrain-Merida 45 Jonathan Lastra Martinez (Spa) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA 46 Louis Meintjes (RSA) Dimension Data 47 Jesus Ezquerra Muela (Spa) Burgos BH 0:04:24 48 Mikel Iturria Segurola (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias 49 Jhonatan Narvaez (Ecu) Quick-Step Floors 0:04:26 50 Koen de Kort (Ned) Trek-Segafredo 0:04:49 51 David De La Cruz (Spa) Team Sky 52 Bob Jungels (Lux) Quick-Step Floors 53 Rafael Valls Ferri (Spa) Movistar Team 54 Jetse Bol (Ned) Manzana Postobon 0:05:21 55 Michael Matthews (Aus) Team Sunweb 0:05:47 56 Jai Hindley (Aus) Team Sunweb 57 Michael Schär (Swi) BMC Racing Team 0:06:43 58 Martijn Tusveld (Ned) Team Sunweb 0:06:55 59 Bakhtiyar Kozhatayev (Kaz) Astana Pro Team 60 Merhawi Kudus (Eri) Dimension Data 0:07:54 61 Dario Cataldo (Ita) Astana Pro Team 62 Jan Hirt (Cze) Astana Pro Team 63 Benjamin King (USA) Dimension Data 0:08:37 64 Ian Boswell (USA) Katusha-Alpecin 65 Victor De La Parte (Spa) Movistar Team 66 Pavel Kochetkov (Rus) Katusha-Alpecin 67 Cyril Barthe (Fra) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias 0:09:21 68 Jordi Simon Casulleras (Spa) Burgos BH 69 Sergio Rodriguez Reche (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias 70 Miles Scotson (Aus) BMC Racing Team 71 Matteo Fabbro (Ita) Katusha-Alpecin 72 Willie Smit (RSA) Katusha-Alpecin 73 Nelson Oliveira (Por) Movistar Team 74 Julen Amezqueta Moreno (Spa) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA 0:10:15 75 Tao Geoghegan Hart (GBr) Team Sky 0:10:29 76 Christopher Hamilton (Aus) Team Sunweb 77 Winner Anacona (Col) Movistar Team 78 Kasper Asgreen (Den) Quick-Step Floors 79 Vegard Stake Laengen (Nor) UAE Team Emirates 80 Hubert Dupont (Fra) AG2R La Mondiale 0:11:35 81 Pablo Torres Muiño (Spa) Burgos BH 0:13:31 82 Tiago Machado (Por) Katusha-Alpecin DNF Egan Bernal (Col) Team Sky DNF Vasil Kiryienka (Blr) Team Sky DNF Sebastian Henao (Col) Team Sky DNF David Lopez Garcia (Spa) Team Sky DNF Tony Gallopin (Fra) AG2R La Mondiale DNF François Bidard (Fra) AG2R La Mondiale DNF Mathias Frank (Swi) AG2R La Mondiale DNF Alexandre Geniez (Fra) AG2R La Mondiale DNF Pierre Latour (Fra) AG2R La Mondiale DNF Matteo Montaguti (Ita) AG2R La Mondiale DNF Miguel Angel Lopez (Col) Astana Pro Team DNF Manuele Boaro (Ita) Bahrain-Merida DNF Gorka Izagirre (Spa) Bahrain-Merida DNF Ramunas Navardauskas (Ltu) Bahrain-Merida DNF Luka Pibernik (Slo) Bahrain-Merida DNF Kanstantsin Siutsou (Blr) Bahrain-Merida DNF Patrick Bevin (NZl) BMC Racing Team DNF Simon Gerrans (Aus) BMC Racing Team DNF Francisco Ventoso (Spa) BMC Racing Team DNF Loïc Vliegen (Bel) BMC Racing Team DNF Christoph Pfingsten (Ger) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Felix Grossschartner (Aut) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Gregor Mühlberger (Aut) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Juraj Sagan (Svk) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Aleksejs Saramotins (Lat) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Andreas Schillinger (Ger) Bora-Hansgrohe DNF Jorge Cubero Galvez (Spa) Burgos BH DNF José Mendes (Por) Burgos BH DNF Diego Rubio Hernandez (Spa) Burgos BH DNF Luis Guillermo Mas Bonet (Spa) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA DNF Nelson Andres Soto Martinez (Col) Caja Rural-Seguros RGA DNF Loic Chetout (Fra) Cofidis, Solutions Credits DNF Michaël Van Staeyen (Bel) Cofidis, Solutions Credits DNF Garikoitz Bravo Oiarbide (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias DNF Aritz Bagues Kalparsoro (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias DNF Mikel Bizkarra Etxegibel (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias DNF Julen Irizar Laskurain (Spa) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias DNF Arthur Vichot (Fra) Groupama-FDJ DNF David Gaudu (Fra) Groupama-FDJ DNF Matthieu Ladagnous (Fra) Groupama-FDJ DNF Jérémy Roy (Fra) Groupama-FDJ DNF Tim Wellens (Bel) Lotto Soudal DNF Frederik Frison (Bel) Lotto Soudal DNF Tomasz Marczynski (Pol) Lotto Soudal DNF Remy Mertz (Bel) Lotto Soudal DNF Maxime Monfort (Bel) Lotto Soudal DNF Tosh Van Der Sande (Bel) Lotto Soudal DNF Luke Durbridge (Aus) Mitchelton-Scott DNF Michael Hepburn (Aus) Mitchelton-Scott DNF Mathew Hayman (Aus) Mitchelton-Scott DNF Svein Tuft (Can) Mitchelton-Scott DNF Mikel Landa (Spa) Movistar Team DNF Marc Soler (Spa) Movistar Team DNF Stephen Cummings (GBr) Dimension Data DNF Tom-Jelte Slagter (Ned) Dimension Data DNF Jacques Janse Van Rensburg (RSA) Dimension Data DNF Matti Breschel (Den) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale DNF Lawson Craddock (USA) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale DNF Sebastian Langeveld (Ned) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale DNF Tom Van Asbroeck (Bel) EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale DNF Primoz Roglic (Slo) LottoNL-Jumbo DNF Bert-Jan Lindeman (Ned) LottoNL-Jumbo DNF Paul Martens (Ger) LottoNL-Jumbo DNF Bram Tankink (Ned) LottoNL-Jumbo DNF Simon Geschke (Ger) Team Sunweb DNF Chad Haga (USA) Team Sunweb DNF Edward Theuns (Bel) Team Sunweb DNF Eugenio Alafaci (Ita) Trek-Segafredo DNF Michael Gogl (Aut) Trek-Segafredo DNF Markel Irizar (Spa) Trek-Segafredo DNF Manuele Mori (Ita) UAE Team Emirates Mountains classification # Rider Name (Country) Team Result 1 Cyril Barthe (Fra) Euskadi Basque Country-Murias 31 pts 2 Pablo Torres Muiño (Spa) Burgos BH 15 3 Julian Alaphilippe (Fra) Quick-Step Floors 5 4 Jonathan Castroviejo (Spa) Team Sky 4 5 Bauke Mollema (Ned) Trek-Segafredo 3<doc-sep>Mikel Landa's participation in the 2018 Vuelta a España is in serious doubt after he sustained an injury in a late crash in the 2018 Clásica San Sebastián on Saturday. The Basque rider was brought down after Ben King (Dimension Data) fell at the front of the peloton on the approach to the final climb with 19km to go. Landa looked in immediate trouble after hitting the ground, and though he remained conscious, was unable to get up as medics rushed to attend to him. >>> Julian Alaphilippe continues exceptional season with victory at Clásica San Sebastián 2018 He was put in a neck brace and on to a stretcher and taken by ambulance to the hospital in Donostia Hospital, where it was confirmed he had a "fracture without displacement of the spinous process in his lumbar vertebra L1." His Movistar team confirmed that he would return home and require two to three weeks of complete rest, with the Vuelta a España just a few weeks away, starting on August 25. The 28-year-old, who had a disappointing Tour de France campaign, was aiming to help deliver an overall win for his team alongside Nairo Quintana and Alejandro Valverde. Movistar did not confirm if he would definitely miss the start of the Vuelta. 5 August 2018 28th Clasica San Sebastian BERNAL Egan Arley (COL) Sky Photo : Yuzuru SUNADA (Image credit: Yuzuru SUNADA) Meanwhile, Team Sky's young superstar Egan Bernal was also brought down and injured in the same crash. Like Landa, he was unable to move and was loaded on to a stretcher by medics before being moved to hospital. See more The Colombian suffered serious facial trauma in the crash which required surgery, with scans revealing a nasal fracture and a maxillary injury. Sky confirmed that he would be assessed by maxillofacial specialists and Bernal later confirmed on Twitter that he had undergone successful surgery. Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step) won the 221km Clásica San Sebastián, attacking with Bauke Mollema (Trek-Segafredo) on the steep final climb before beating the Dutchman in a two-up sprint for the line.<doc-sep>
Julian Alaphilippe (Quick-Step Floors) continued his exceptional season with yet another big win at the Clásica San Sebastián 2018. Following on from his win at Flèche Wallonne in the spring, and riding on the wave of stunning form that saw him claim two Tour de France stage wins and the king of the mountains jersey, the Frenchman again rode imperiously to seal his eighth victory of the season. He beat 2016 champion Bauke Mollema (Trek-Segafredo) in a two-man sprint, while Anthony Roux (Groupama-FDJ) came out on top of the sprint for third place some 16 seconds behind. Alaphilippe and Mollema both launched explosive attacks on the final climb, the Murgil Tontorra. They managed to catch the dangerous duo of Rudy Molard (Groupama-FDJ) and Antwan Tolhoek (LottoNL-Jumbo) - who had attacked further down the climb - just before the summit, which they crossed together. They worked together well, and Mollema happy to take turns setting the pace, and Alaphilippe happy to lead out the sprint. Ultimately the sprint did feel like a foregone conclusion, with Alaphilippe using his superior kick to win comfortably. Earlier, in the run-in to the Murgil Tontorra, a huge crash disrupted the peloton, when a touch of wheels right at the front caused a chain reaction that saw several pre-race favourites fall. They included: Tour de France star Primož Roglič (LottoNL-Jumbo) ex-winner Tony Gallopin (Ag2r La Mondiale), home favourites Gorka Izagirre (Bahrain-Merida) and Mikel Landa (Movistar), and Sky’s Egan Bernal. All were taken out of contention for the win, but it was Landa and Bernal who fared worse, with both needing to be placed carefully onto stretchers before being moved off the road. How it happened A break of six rode clear at the start of the stage, consisting entirely of non-World Tour teams: Pablo Torres (Burgos-BH), Lluis Mas (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), Loic Chetout (Cofidis), plus three riders from the local Basque Euskadi-Murias team, Aritz Bargues, Cyril Barthe and Sergio Rodriguez. They were let free by a satisfied peloton, and built a gap of over seven minutes. That lead had shortened to just 2-40 when the break - led by Barthe - reached the summit for the first of three times up the Jaizkibel, the climb the race is most associated with. In the aftermath of the climb the gap again went out to about four minutes, only to tumble to under two minutes on the next climb, the category three Arkale, once the race among the favourites began to heat up, with an attack from Movistar’s Winner Anacona. Going over the summit, Barthe and Torres detached themselves from the rest of the break. Then on the next climb - the second ascent of the Jaizkibel - the rest of the group splintered into bits, while Barthe dropped Torres to strike out alone. Back in the peloton, Sky took to the front with a train of five riders, in a sight reminiscent from last month’s Tour de France. They upped the pace and managed to swallow up all the other remaining riders from the break, as well as Anacona, leaving Barthe as the last survivor with a slender lead of around 15 seconds over the summit. He held on gamely for a while, but was inevitably caught with just under 40km when attacks started to fire off the front of the peloton. Movistar were again the instigators, with Anacona again going up the road, only this time with Ian Boswell (Katusha-Alpecin) and Kanstantsin Sivtsov (Bahrain-Merida) for company. A large counter-attack followed shortly on the second time up the Arkale, stringing the bunch out into a long line of before everything came back together. Pierre Latour (Ag2r La Mondiale) was the next to have a go, but was joined by more and more riders on the descent until the whole peloton had caught back on. The lull that followed was ended abruptly by the aforementioned crash that took down Landa and Bernal among others, which prompted a reorganisation in the bunch as teams reassessed the new situation. Trek-Segafredo and Astana took turns to set the pace on the lower slopes of the climb, stringing out the bunch with a searing pace. However, it was a LottoNL-Jumbo rider who made the first attack in the form of Tolhoek, with Molard chasing onto his wheel. Once their gap had reached a dangerous distance with the summit approaching, a group of favourites burst out of the significantly-reduced peloton, including Alaphilippe, Mollema, Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) and Ion Izagirre (Bahrain-Merida).
The Toronto Raptors announced their roster for the 2018 Las Vegas Summer League on Friday. The roster is as follows: NO. PLAYER POS HT WT BIRTHDATE PRIOR TO NBA/HOME COUNTRY NBA EXP. 1 Rawle Alkins G 6-5 220 10/29/1997 Arizona/USA R 3 OG Anunoby F 6-8 232 7/17/1997 Indiana/England 1 25 Chris Boucher F 6-10 200 1/11/1993 Oregon/Canada 1 32 Fuquan Edwin F 6-6 213 9/17/1991 Seton Hall/USA R 15 Tryggvi Hlinason C 7-1 260 10/28/1997 Valencia (Spain)/Iceland R 6 Augusto Lima C 6-10 235 9/17/1991 UCAM Murcia (Spain)/Brazil R 18 Jordan Loyd G 6-4 210 7/27/1993 Indianapolis/USA R 34 Alfonzo McKinnie F 6-8 215 9/17/1992 Wisconsin-Green Bay/USA 1 13 Malcolm Miller G-F 6-7 210 3/6/1993 Holy Cross/USA 1 11 Codi Miller-McIntyre G 6-3 205 6/1/1994 Wake Forest/USA R 20 Giddy Potts G 6-2 220 8/8/1995 Middle Tennessee/USA R 22 Malachi Richardson G 6-6 205 1/5/1996 Syracuse/USA 2 30 Andrew Rowsey G 5-11 180 6/18/1994 Marquette/USA R 12 Marquis Teague G 6-2 180 2/28/1993 Kentucky/USA 3 27 Shevon Thompson C 7-0 242 6/10/1993 George Mason/Jamaica R The Summer League team will be coached by Nick Nurse himself. Their schedule for the tournament is as follows: Friday, July 6 – 12pm PT vs. New Orleans (ESPNU) Sunday, July 8 – 12pm PT vs. Minnesota (NBA TV) Monday, July 9, 12:30pm PT vs. Oklahoma City (NBA TV) From there, teams will be bracketed based on record and point differential. Every team is guaranteed at least five games in total, so the Raptors will be in Vegas until at least July 13 and possibly as late as July 17 if they make a run to the championship. Coaches Nick Nurse: Following in the footsteps of a few other first-time NBA head coaches, Nurse has made the decision to coach the Vegas squad himself, surrounded by a still-developing staff. This makes a ton of sense on several fronts, and it’s a great sign of Nurse’s desire to hit the ground running that he’s opted to do so. While Nurse has head coaching experience, it’s been several years since he was in the driver’s seat, and five or six games of reps ahead of the preseason should help him shake any rust off with the process of calling the shots himself. It’s also a good way to help build chemistry within the staff ahead of the regular season, and for him to begin developing a rapport with a number of Raptors who are on the Vegas roster. It should also give us a glimpse into the kind of tweaks and experiments Nurse has planned – it’s still too early for wholesale changes, and Nurse doesn’t have the personnel here he will in Toronto, but this should be a nice peak into his thinking for the year ahead. Raptors OG Anunoby: This is a great opportunity for Anunoby, who is probably a little too advanced for the Vegas stage impact-wise but who hasn’t had the chance to play a featured role as he will here yet. Anunoby missed all of Summer League last year following knee surgery and was relegated to strength and conditioning work and set shooting. He also didn’t see any time with Raptors 905, immediately jumping into the NBA rotation. Here, the team can funnel more possessions his way to expedite his development and experiment with his face-up game and ability to create in the pick-and-roll. Last summer, Pascal Siakam wowed with the progress he’d made in a similar opportunity, and Anunoby will get his first chance to make a case for a larger share of the offense here. This might be the team’s biggest window yet into just how much higher Anunoby’s offensive ceiling can push than was originally expected before the 2017 draft. Malachi Richardson: This will stand as an interesting look at the Raptors’ player development incubator. So far, they’ve been the ones identifying, signing/drafting, and developing talent, and they’ve had a great deal of success. Richardson is the first real piece they haven’t had their fingerprints all over, and how he’s progressed since coming over from Sacramento’s woeful development setup at midseason will be worth monitoring. If he suddenly looks like a potential NBA player – he has not, through two years, looked the part with any consistency – then the Raptors’ confidence in their ability to develop distressed prospect assets could grow, providing more market opportunity moving forward. Richardson has great size for the two and a sweet-looking stroke, so his progress will be a matter of conditioning and beginning to think and read the game at a higher level within the Raptors’ system. Alfonzo McKinnie: With a July 20 guarantee date on his deal – essentially a team option for the minimum for 2018-19 – perhaps nobody has more to lose at Summer League than McKinnie, who turned his audition here last year into an NBA contract with a sizable guarantee. His progress stagnated a little bit this past season, as he spent the bulk of his time with Raptors 905 and didn’t take a major step forward as an outside shooter, the one biggest skill he needs to discover to stick as a 3-and-D weapon in the NBA. There’s still plenty to like, as McKinnie is hyper-athletic, a solid defender at either forward position, and an absolute hawk on the offensive glass or in transition. There’s not a lot of downside to locking in a minimum-salaried 25-year-old, so his goal here will be showing enough shooting and playmaking progress to warrant keeping him over the flexibility of an open roster spot to sign a different minimum player. Malcolm Miller: It’s possible that Miller and McKinnie are in a bit of a competition here (and maybe through Rawle Alkins in, too) as the team looks to fill out the back of the roster with versatile wings. Miller got the chance to show he can excel in the role he’ll be asked to play in the NBA last year, proving the best individual defender on the 905 and even stepping into some starts with the Raptors.<doc-sep>The Toronto Raptors announced Friday their 15-man roster for NBA Summer League 2018 in Las Vegas. Raptors head coach Nick Nurse will serve as the team’s head coach for the tournament. With all 30 NBA teams participating for the first time, NBA Summer League 2018 will expand to 12 days (July 6-17) and 82 games. Teams will compete in three preliminary games before being seeded in a tournament that culminates with the championship game on Tuesday, July 17. Each team will play at least five games and as many as eight. This year marks Toronto’s 11th appearance at NBA Summer League in Las Vegas (2006, 2008-10, 2012-18). The Raptors finished NBA Summer League 2017 with a 3-2 record after reaching the second round of the tournament. Toronto holds an overall mark of 27-23 (.540) at the event. The Raptors open the preliminary round Friday, July 6 vs. the New Orleans Pelicans at Thomas & Mack Center (12:30 p.m. PT / 3:30 p.m. ET).<doc-sep>CLEVELAND, OH - MAY 5: Malcolm Miller #13 and Malachi Richardson #22 of the Toronto Raptors looks on prior to Game Three of the Eastern Conference Semi Finals of the 2018 NBA Playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 5, 2018 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) The Raptors are ready for the next step in the year-round NBA dance. This one is Summer League, and our team should be competitive. The Toronto Raptors released their roster for the 2018 NBA Summer League [SL]. The Las Vegas-based tournament (it’s not a League, NBA execs…please rename) begins on July 6 and wraps on the 17th. I’m most surprised to see OG Anunoby listed. He started 62 NBA games last season for a 59-win team, so seeing him among the G League hopefuls is strange, and worrisome. Even if he’s there for a conditioning assignment, I can think of safer places for him to spend the summer. If OG blows out his previously injured knee or otherwise becomes damaged goods, there will be hell to pay. The youngest player is an Icelandic giant, Tryggvi Hlinason. One of our FanSided colleagues, Mike Oppland at Sir Charles in Charge, put together an admirable analysis of this fellow. I strongly recommend you have a read if Hlinason intrigues you. I’ll be watching to see if he can keep pace with the fleet-footed swingmen he’ll be opposing, and whether he has any offensive capability at all. He’s a sign and stash candidate. Marquis Teague surely didn’t expect to be job-hunting after three NBA seasons. He’s worn a lot of jerseys in his far-flung pro career, and will need a spike in performance if he’s ever to return to the bright lights. As of this writing, he’s an undersized combo guard who can’t shoot. The intriguing trio of Malachi Richardson, Malcolm Miller and Alfonzo McKinnie will be trying to distinguish themselves enough to earn invitations to Raptors training camp. Richardson is the youngest, so should have the highest ceiling. However, it’s tough to tell, as he’s had so few NBA minutes. Miller started four games for the Raptors last season. He has a Qualifying Offer in his pocket from the team, so has some security. He might make the big team, but I believe a return to the 905 is the most likely outcome. If he enjoys a dominant SL run, I could change my mind. Take advantage, young men I’ve already written about swingman Rawle Alkins, and I’m looking forward to getting a closer look. He’s a dark horse who could crash the party – we’ll see. Nick Nurse is taking this event seriously enough to name himself the team’s coach. The youngsters can’t complain they didn’t get a proper look if the head man is in charge. Of course, on a 15-man roster, minutes are going to be precious. We’ll get a sense of who Nurse likes from who enjoys the most playing time, particularly late in games. I doubt we’ll see many of the older guys receive so much as a contract offer from the 905. A few of them might receive training camp invitations, but it’s too early to say who. We’ll be watching these games with considerable interest. The depth of the Raptors was a critical element of team success last season. This SL group could offer up a few useful people to power that depth for 2018-19 and beyond.<doc-sep>The Toronto Raptors kick off the 2018 summer league Friday July 6th against the New Orleans Pelicans. Here are the five things to watch for this summer. The NBA Summer League means different things to different people. For high draft picks it is a chance for them to get their feet we at a professional level and test their previously unstoppable moves against higher competition. For second round picks and undrafted rookies it is an opportunity to impress a front-office and try to earn a coveted roster spot. For NBA fans and Media, it is a chance for us to watch prospects in a professional, competitive setting, and of course overreact. A list of former summer league MVPs shows that a good performance in Las Vegas certainly does not mean a player is ready for the NBA. Although a player’s performance doesn’t correlate perfectly to NBA success, there is plenty that can be learned in the week-and-a-half spent in Sin City. Last season we saw Jaylen Brown take a huge leap in development, Kyle Kuzma had the potential* to be the steal of the draft, and that Lonzo Ball for all of his flaws was at minimum a great passer. Watching a player dominate summer league is a good sign, it just needs to be taken with a grain of salt. So what can we learn about the Toronto Raptors this Summer League? We take a look starting with the potential emergence of OG Anunoby.<doc-sep>
The Raptors announced on Friday the 15-man roster for the 2018 Las Vegas Summer League. OG Anunoby is the headlining player on the roster, which includes Malcolm Miller, Alfonzo McKinnie and Malachi Richardson — who was acquired from the Sacramento Kings at the trade deadline in exchange for Bruno Caboclo. One interesting detail of note here is that Nick Nurse, who was officially promoted to head coach just over two weeks ago, will coach the Summer League squad. It’ll be a great opportunity to test out a few looks from his playbook, and should be a great primer before the preseason begins on September 27th. Aside from the four players carrying over from last season, the team also includes undrafted rookie guard Rawle Alkins from Arizona, and Brazilian-born centre Augusto Lima, who also went undrafted in 2013, but has spent the last five years in EuroLeague play with Zalgiris Kaunus and most recently, UCAM Murcia of the Spanish league Liga Endesa. Alkins is a multi-dimensional 6’5”, 220 pound guard who missed almost half of the season with a foot injury (which was ultimately surgically repaired) early in the 2017-18 campaign, but a player who clearly impacted the game when he was able to see the floor after getting healthy. The injury and subsequent time missed impacted his draft status, as the one-time projected second-round pick was ultimately passed over entirely in the 60-pick draft. The Raptors do have a knack for finding unpolished gems during the summer months, so if there is one player to keep an eye on before training camp, it’s Alkins. Overall, Nurse will have a chance to test out the shiniest of his new toys, perhaps by featuring Anunoby in a variety of offensive sets. Being an offense-focused coach, fans should expect to see Nurse use Anunoby in creative ways, especially since this will be their first opportunity as a head coach-player duo. The Vegas Summer League kicks off on July 6th, and will play through to July 17th, for a total of 12 days. The Raptors open with a game on July 6th against the New Orleans Pelicans, in the Thomas and Mack Center, at 12:30 p.m. local time, and 3:30 p.m. Eastern Standard.
Freya Lewis, who was injured in the Manchester Arena concert attack, and Jenny Grant, the nurse who treated her, spoke at the service.<doc-sep>The boss of the NHS has lauded the service as an enduring “unifying ideal” for people across Britain, as politicians, staff and patients queued up to pay tribute to the health service on its 70th birthday. At a service of celebration at Westminster Abbey for 2,200 NHS staff, Simon Stevens, the NHS England chief executive, quoted the archbishop of Canterbury’s view that the NHS was “the most powerful and visible expression of our Christian heritage” because it “sprang out of a concern that the poor should be able to be treated as well as the rich”. Stevens said: “This has become a unifying ideal, across this nation and down the generations. A health service that belongs to us all. To those of all faiths and of none.” Martin Griffiths, a trauma surgeon who also spoke at the event, said: “The NHS is a grand lady who watches over us every day.” Freya Lewis, 15, who underwent 13 operations and more than 70 hours of surgery after being seriously injured in last year’s Manchester Arena bombing, recalled how staff at the city’s children’s hospital had helped her to walk again. “The NHS saved my life and got me back to normal. The NHS is the best thing in the world,” she said. Thousands of tea parties were held on Thursday to mark the 70th anniversary of the creation of the NHS on 5 July 1948 by Clement Attlee’s postwar Labour government. Buildings including town halls, York Minster and Everton football club’s Goodison Park stadium were lit up in blue – the NHS’s colour – in celebration. Sophie, Countess of Wessex, represented the royal family at the abbey, where Attlee is buried. Jeremy Hunt, the health and social care secretary, and Philip Hammond, the chancellor, represented the government, which recently agreed to give the NHS in England a £20bn funding boost by 2023-24. Doctors, nurses and many other staff, some in uniform, and patients, some on crutches and others in wheelchairs, formed the congregation at the service. NHS staff pose for a selfie on their arrival at Westminster Abbey. Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA In a message to guests in the order of service, Theresa May thanked “one of our nation’s most precious institutions” and its staff now and down the years. “My own personal thanks go to all those who support me in managing my diabetes,” the prime minister added. Guy Opperman, the Conservative MP for Hexham in Northumberland, marked the anniversary by writing in Newcastle’s Evening Chronicle about the “incredible debt” he owed to the NHS after it twice saved his life. On the first occasion he had fallen and been crushed by a horse while competing as a jockey in a race at Stratford. “My entire left side was staved in, giving me 14 broken ribs, a kidney cut in half, a perforated spleen and a pneumothorax – when you pop a rib through your lungs.” The second time was when he collapsed in the House of Commons in 2011 and was found to have “a brain tumour the size of a woman’s fist”. On both occasions, he wrote, he was saved by the skill of NHS doctors and surgeons. Lauren Turner Photograph: Alicia Canter/The Guardian Away from the events and the tributes, at King’s College hospital in south London, Sister Lauren Turner was seeing patients through A&E. As nurse-in-charge, she was assigning staff to all the patients being treated, trying to keep on top of the four-hour target. “We’ve had someone removed already for threatening behaviour,” she said. “That’s not the best part of the job. It can just be so busy, and you still have keep people safe. I never want to see people waiting for seven hours, elderly people who need to see a doctor.” At her unit, the day had also seen a cardiac arrest, a patient in resuscitation, another sent to intensive care, but also minor limb injuries where staff can “patch them up and send them home”. The department has seen three major incidents in the past year, the Westminster and London Bridge terror attacks and the Grenfell Tower fire. “When they declare a major incident, we have to clear the whole department. It’s stressful but it’s also why so many of us work here, it’s the kind of people we are, the drama, the life-saving element. That’s why we do the job,” said Turner.<doc-sep>Why does our society provide health services collectively rather than privately? Why don’t we all simply, as individuals, buy what we need (medicines, consultations, treatments, operations, etc) as and when we need them, rather than funding it all through the tax system? What makes buying healthcare so different from buying groceries or flights abroad? We don’t have a national supermarket service, or a national holiday service. So why do we have a national health service? Why not let the market work its magic, balancing supply and demand, sending price signals, driving efficiencies and forcing up quality? Unless you’re a market fundamentalist or a libertarian ideologue, the answers to these questions probably seem obvious. Yet they are nevertheless worth asking as the NHS turns 70 this week, since the answers can help us to appreciate the reasons for its foundation, to grasp the ways in which it falls short and also to see what we need to do to put the health service on a stable footing for the future. First the economics. Health costs can be large and are often random. We don’t know when we might get sick and how much we might need to pay for treatment. Those features make the overwhelming case for some kind of insurance system, where such financial risks are socially pooled. NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary Show all 18 1 /18 NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary Labour Party leader, Jeremy Corbyn, addresses demonstrators following the march AFP/Getty NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary EPA NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary Reuters NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary REUTERS NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary EPA NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary REUTERS NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary PA NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary REUTERS NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary REUTERS NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary PA NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images NHS at 70: demonstration and celebration march to mark anniversary AFP/Getty Images This doesn’t need to be done through a fully taxpayer-funded, publicly-owned, centralised system like the NHS. Several European countries have social insurance systems, where employees and employees make contributions and a diverse array of specialist independent health companies and hospitals supply the care in return for funds from the communal pot. But if you want everyone to have access to healthcare, regardless of ability to pay, there does need to be a large element of taxpayer subsidy, non-discrimination regulation and a compulsion to participate in an insurance scheme. Leave it to “the market” and the market will fail, as the American experience shows. The US has a vast private health insurance infrastructure, but those features of compulsion, non-discrimination and redistribution are lacking or incomplete, with the result that some 30 million working age Americans go without the health coverage they need. It was to end this kind of grotesque inequality in access to healthcare that the NHS was founded by Labour in 1948. There are very good reasons for pride in that historic achievement. Seventy years ago it was not outlandish to suggest that the NHS was, in the words of its founder Nye Bevan, the “envy of the world”. But is that true today? A report from various UK think tanks, including the King’s Fund and the Institute for Fiscal Studies, last week highlighted evidence that the NHS is lagging behind other systems on a number of health outcome indicators, ranging from cancer survival rates, to managing those with pulmonary disease to post-heart attack mortality. ✕ NHS to scrap 'unnecessary or risky' procedures A major cross-country study last year of amenable mortality – measuring the rate at which people die of conditions that could feasibly have been treated – showed the UK performing poorly relative to several other developed countries. Critics are probably right to say that paeans from politicians to the glories of the NHS unhelpfully distract us from this sobering reality. The important question is whether more money for the health service will improve outcomes, or whether there’s some kind of structural impediment. We do spend less on health as a proportion of GDP than the likes of Germany, France, Japan and Sweden – countries that have tend to have better outcomes. It’s not unreasonable to hypothesise that we could get better results if we spent more, particularly on equipment such as scanners. The last eight years of gross underfunding for the health service relative to the demands being placed on it by an ageing population certainly provides powerful evidence that if we don’t significantly increase its resources, outcomes will deteriorate further. It’s often asserted by right-wing newspapers and libertarian pressure groups that social insurance systems are much more efficient than the centralised “bureaucratic” NHS, with the implication that we can wring out better results without spending more if we would only commission more private providers, or impose radical structural reforms. Yet, as last week’s think tank report also crisply spelled out, the NHS is actually very efficient relative to other systems, including those that have adopted the social insurance model. Despite the perennial complaints about managers, the NHS spends less on administration than comparable systems. It also prescribes more generic medicines, keeping the overall drugs bill down. There is certainly scope for the NHS to learn from other successful health systems around the world.<doc-sep>He said: "The NHS is something that we can too easily take for granted. It's been there for me throughout my life and has also saved many of my family members lives."<doc-sep>
Staff and patients are set to join celebrations across the UK on Thursday to mark the 70th birthday of the NHS. Services will be held at Westminster Abbey and York Minster to commemorate 70 years to the day that Aneurin Bevan, then the health secretary, launched the NHS at Park hospital, Manchester (now Trafford General hospital). Thousands of tea parties will take place to raise money for NHS charities and dozens of landmark buildings will be bathed in blue light, including Blackpool Tower, Gateshead Millennium Bridge and the London Eye. As it enters its eighth decade, the NHS faces pressing questions about its sustainability, with record numbers of people waiting at A&E and for treatment. Aneurin Bevan launched the NHS at the 400-bed Park hospital in Davyhulme, Manchester, on 4 July 1948. Photograph: Alamy But Thursday will be an opportunity to celebrate its achievements, which have seen it grow to be the world’s largest publicly funded health service, dealing with more than 1 million patients every 36 hours and sharing out over £100bn a year. Simon Stevens, the NHS England chief executive, said: “The reason why the health service does so well is frankly due to the brilliance of the staff … And it’s frankly because of the staff that the nation has just recommitted to the idea of a health service [that is] there when you need us, based on how sick you are, not whether you can afford us – a principle that has stood the test of time.” On Wednesday night Theresa May told a gathering of NHS staff at Downing Street that the UK was marking “a very special birthday of a very special institution. In a world that has changed almost beyond recognition [since 1948], the vision at the heart of the NHS – of a tax-funded service that is available to all, free at the point of use, with care based on clinical need and not the ability to pay – still retains near-universal acceptance.” She credited the role of a politician from each of Britain’s three main political parties in the creation of the NHS: William Beveridge (the Liberal who in 1942 set out how the government could fight the five “giant evils” of want, disease, ignorance, squalor and idleness); Nye Bevan (the health minister in Clement Attlee’s postwar Labour government regarded as the NHS’s founding father); and the little-known Sir Henry Willink who in 1944, as the health minister in Winston Churchill’s wartime government, unveiled a health policy white paper that first set out the government’s intention to create a national health service along the lines that were established in 1948. Theresa May speaks to assembled guests as she hosts a reception to mark the 70th anniversary of the NHS at 10 Downing Street. Photograph: Tolga Akmen/AFP/Getty Images Teenager Freya Lewis, a survivor of the Manchester terror attack who suffered 29 separate injuries, and Dr Martin Griffiths, a leading NHS trauma surgeon who led a team treating victims of the London Bridge attack, will be among those taking part in the Westminster Abbey service, which begins at noon. Freya paid tribute to the “incredible care” she received at the Royal Manchester children’s hospital. “What happened last May showed the very darkest side of humanity but so many things that I have experienced since have shown me and my family how amazing people can be,” she said. Singer Linda Nolan, who is being treated for breast cancer, will host a choral concert at York Minster. She will be joined by 15-year-old Eve Senior, another survivor of the Manchester Arena attack, who wants to become a nurse, and Amen Dhesi who – aged 13 – became a carer for his dad who has bipolar disorder. The services will be attended by about 3,000 NHS staff from across the country as well as representatives of charities, councils, and other key NHS partners. The NHS is one of the world’s largest employers, with more than 1.5 million staff, among them Aileen Coomber, 81, a mental health nurse at Sussex Partnership NHS foundation trust, whose employment in the service has spanned 65 years so far. She will carry in the manifest at the Westminster Abbey service. Coomber still remembers life before the NHS when her mother could not always afford to take her to the doctor.
Aretha Franklin's casket just arrived for a public viewing in Detroit -- where the Queen of Soul will lie in state for a couple of days -- and massive lines are already starting to form. Crowds swarmed and lines stretched around the block of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Tuesday morning to catch a glimpse of Aretha and pay last respects to the legendary singer. Her body was on display in an open casket ... surrounded by a beautiful floral arrangement. We broke the story ... there is going to be a plethora of big music acts performing at Aretha's memorial Thursday, including names like the Four Tops, Ron Isley and many, many others. This is a copy of the program for her funeral service Friday at Greater Grace Temple ... where Stevie Wonder and Jennifer Hudson, among many others, will perform.<doc-sep>SOUL sensation Aretha Franklin is proving she is still a true diva even in death - by wearing a string of fashionable outfits in the run up to her star-studded burial. The funeral home in charge of the Queen of Soul's final farewell has announced the star will don different dresses daily during her very public farewell to fans. 26 Aretha Franklin in her open casket presented in Christian Louboutin five-inch patent heels Credit: AP:Associated Press Aretha died last week at the age of 76 from pancreatic cancer in Detroit, where she began her career as a child singing gospel in the New Bethel Baptist Church choir. Now Linda Swanson of Swanson Funeral Home has revealed her family want the legend's wardrobe to be swapped every day ahead of Friday's service - which will be livestreamed around the world What she will be wearing is a "surprise," Swanson told the Detroit Free Press, but added the outfits clothing will be "just natural changes in wardrobe that a queen would make." The star's body arrived in a shining gold casket at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in her Detroit, Michigan, on Tuesday for the start of her two-day public viewing. 26 Franklin will be wearing different dresses everyday in the run up to her funeral Credit: AP:Associated Press 26 People wait in a long line to get the chance to say goodbye to the Queen of Soul Credit: Reuters She was wearing Christian Louboutin five-inch patent leather pumps that match a ruby red dress made of lace - with a full skirt and chiffon overlay. The dress has beading on the bodice and shoulders, and a boat neck collar with a chiffon bell sleeve altered by Swanson, who is also a seamstress. The music legend was also wearing custom-designed beaded earrings. She is resting in a solid bronze Promethean casket plated in 24-carat gold. It is the same type of coffin in which singers James Brown and Michael Jackson were buried. 26 The soul legend was laid out in a gold coffin, wearing a lace-trimmed red suit and surrounded by flowers Credit: Reuters 26 She is resting in a solid bronze Promethean casket plated in 24-carat gold Credit: Reuters 26 The people of Detroit have turned out to say goodbye to the superstar they loved Credit: Reuters The Detroit diva was transported to the museum in a classic white LaSalle Sedan as part of a regal send off. The same Cadillac was used to transport her father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, when he died in July 1984. It was also used to transport Rosa Parks' body when she died in 2005. Her shiny casket - inscribed inside with “The Queen of Soul” in small gold letters - was surrounded by a spray of soft-pink and lavender-coloured roses. The flowers were said to reflect her love for them and her propensity to send arrangements "in grand fashion". 26 A woman holds a a flower made from paper and US currency as she waits to view the body of US singer Credit: EPA 26 Thousands are expected to turn up to pay their regards to the singing legend Credit: Reuters And her legs were said to have been crossed at the ankles, to remember someone who was comfortable with being a strong woman. Franklin reportedly wore red as it is symbolic of her membership in the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, which fights for the rights of African American women. Meanwhile its ornamental elements and sheer netting fabric paid homage to something she would wear onstage. Sabrina Owens, Franklin's niece, who was among those organising the event, confirmed the dress was "something she would have selected for herself". 26 The stunning flower display is symbolic as is everything else in the display Credit: AFP or licensors 26 Posters signed by fans of Aretha Franklin sit outside of the Charles H. Wright Museum Credit: Getty Images - Getty She said: "After all she gave to the world, I felt we needed to give her an appropriate send-off that would match her legacy. She loved the city of Detroit and the city of Detroit loved her." Aretha's soaring voice also poured out from loudspeakers outside the museum, stirring fans arriving to pay their respects to sway and sing along and others to weep. Franklin died last week at the age of 76 from pancreatic cancer in Detroit, where she began her career as a child singing gospel in the New Bethel Baptist Church choir. Hundreds of music lovers slept on the sidewalk overnight to ensure they were among the first to say a farewell to the global star. 26 Legions of fans have been queuing up for hours to pay tribute Credit: Getty Images - Getty Officials made mourners put away their cell phones before viewing Aretha and quickly ushered them along. Tammy Gibson, 49, of Chicago said she arrived about 5.30 a.m. She came alone but made fast friends with others who sang and reminisced. Growing up, Gibson said she heard Franklin's music "playing all the time" by her parents, who "told me to go to bed it's an adult party." Outside the museum, she said: "I know people are sad, but it's just celebrating people dancing and singing her music." Indeed, a group of women were singing her hit "Freeway of Love." Franklin had been a constant in Gibson's life. 26 The gold casket carrying Franklin is taken to a resting place where it will be displayed for two days Credit: Reuters Iconic singer Aretha Franklin's legendary hits 26 It has now emerged that the mega-star did not leave a will to her $80m estate Credit: AFP or licensors "I saw the gold-plated casket it dawned on me: She's gone, but her legacy and her music will live on forever." Multiple life-sized posters of her flanked the entrance and exit of the building - which was soon mobbed with fans. Museum board member Kelly Major Green said the goal was to create a dignified and respectful environment akin to a church, the place where Aretha got her start. “What we wanted to do is be reflective of the Queen,” Ms Green said. “It’s beautiful. She’s beautiful.” 26 The singing star will lie in state for two days of public viewing in Detroit Credit: Reuters 26 Aretha was transported to the museum in a 1936 white LaSalle sedan Credit: AFP or licensors 26 Aretha on the set of the movie 'Blues Brothers 2000' Credit: The Hollywood Archive/KGC Photo Agency LLP The high-heel scarlet shoes, in particular, show “The Queen of Soul is diva to the end,” Ms Green said. “She is just iconic. The way she loved and treated individuals, and she always remained down to earth,” said Mary Jones, who wore an"'I love Aretha' t-shirt and made the four-hour drive from Ohio to pay her respects. “It’s unreal that I’m going to get to say goodbye to her now. It’s amazing.” The Wright Museum previously hosted a similar public viewing for civil rights icon Rosa Parks after her 2005 death. Aretha sang at Parks’ funeral and the singer will be entombed in the same cemetery as Parks. 26 A fan sits inside a pink Cadillac parked outside the museum Credit: EPA 26 Aretha's star-studded funeral is set to take place on Friday Credit: Reuters 26 Fans queued overnight to ensure they were among the first to say their farewells Credit: AFP or licensors 26 Aretha at the 2016 White House Correspondents Association Annual Dinner Credit: Alamy It has now emerged that the mega-star did not leave a will - despite having tens of millions stashed in the bank. Court documents show the 'I Say a Little Prayer ' legend had no will at the time of her death, reports US entertainment website TMZ. The singer's four sons - Clarence, Edward, Teddy White Jr. and Kecalf - will now share equally in her estimated $80m estate, in accordance with Michigan state law. Aretha's funeral is due to take place on August 31, at at 10am Eastern Standard Time, which is 3pm in the UK, when her body will be entombed at a family gravesite. 26 The 'Queen of Soul', pictured in the 1960s, is considered one of the greatest singers ever Credit: Alamy Aretha Franklin's 'Respect' (Original Version, 1967) 26 People hold cards with the image of Aretha Franklin as they wait in line Credit: Reuters It will be held at the Greater Grace Temple in Detroit, Michigan and her body will be entombed at the Woodlawn Cemetery. The funeral will see the legendary artist's family and closest friends say goodbye to the singer in the private event. Former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton are also due to attend. More than 100 pink Cadillacs are expected to line up outside the church to pay homage to Franklin's song Freeway of Love, in which she sings about a pink Cadillac. 26 The Queen of Soul will by lying in state for the next two days Credit: AP:Associated Press 26 Aretha's close friend Stevie Wonder is reported to be performing at her funeral service Credit: AP:Associated Press Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Holliday, Jennifer Hudson and Yolanda Adam are set to perform at the service, according to CNN. Others performing are Faith Hill, Chaka Khan, classical artist Audrey DuBois Harris, soprano Alice McAllister Tillman, Franklin's son Edward Franklin, the Aretha Franklin Orchestra and the Aretha Franklin Celebration Choir. Music producer Clive Davis is also planning a tribute concert to honour the legend at New York City's Madison Square Garden in November. 26 Aretha passed away from advanced pancreatic cancer on August 16 Credit: AFP or licensors 26 A fan sheds a tear for the star in her adopted home of Detroit Credit: AFP or licensors MORE ABOUT ARETHA FRANKLIN DEMANDING RESPECT Aretha Franklin’s sons file FOURTH will they claim will split $80M estate 'WHOA!' What to know about Aretha Franklin and Glynn Turman’s wedding SOUL QUEEN Aretha Franklin grew up in 'sex circus', was pregnant at 12 but never found love SOUL SISTER Aretha Franklin's siblings - from younger sister Carolyn to half-sister Carl LOVE ON TOUR All about Aretha Franklin's tour manager and lover Ken Cunningham FAMILY TIES Aretha Franklin's mother and father - Barbara Siggers and C. L. Franklin N-O R-E-S-P-E-C-T Aretha Franklin's family slams National Geographic's new biopic of singer WAR OF WILLS Who is Edward Jordan Sr? Father of Aretha Franklin's first child Clarence IMPORTANT WORK What to know about Aretha Franklin and Martin Luther King Jr's relationship FIRST BORN SON All about Aretha Franklin's first child who she had aged just 12 The singer was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but moved to Detroit when she was five. Rolling Stone magazine recently named her the greatest singer of all time. Aretha’s dazzling music career included classic songs (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and RESPECT. The mum-of-four died surrounded by loved ones in the town where she grew up, publicist Gwendolyn Quinn announced.<doc-sep>
Aretha Franklin, known for floor-length mink and jewels, is glamorous in life and death. On the first day of a two-day public viewing at Detroit's Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Queen of Soul is wearing Christian Louboutin 5-inch patent leather pumps that match a tea-length ruby red dress made of lace — with a full tulle skirt and chiffon overlay, said Linda Swanson, executive vice president of Swanson Funeral Home. The dress has beading on the bodice and shoulders, and a boat neck collar with a chiffon bell sleeve altered by Swanson, who is also a seamstress. The music legend is wearing custom-designed beaded earrings. Franklin's family selected the ensemble. "She is presented in a way that reflects her life and her legacy," Swanson said. "She is, indeed, resplendent in repose, as a queen should be." The vibrant red signaled Franklin's distinguished status as an honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., the public service sorority that bade a moving farewell to Franklin with an Omega Omega final rite ceremony in Detroit on Tuesday. She is resting in a solid bronze Promethean casket plated in 24-karat gold. It is the same type of coffin in which singers James Brown and Michael Jackson were buried, according to The Telegraph of Britain. Aretha Franklin dressed in rose gold for final viewing at church Visitation day 2: Powder blue, vendors line up Aretha's funeral will be livestreamed and broadcast on TV Aretha's funeral: List of performers revealed Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members say final farewell to Aretha Franklin The casket is lined with champagne velvet; her name "Aretha Franklin" is embroidered in gold metallic thread with "Queen of Soul" beneath. Funeral arrangements were not directed by Aretha Franklin, Swanson said. "She never talked about death. She was very much all about life." Hundreds of fans lined up to pay their respects from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, a schedule that will continue Wednesday at the museum. The funeral is Friday. O'Neil D. Swanson began Monday at 6 a.m. making preparations to get the 18-time Grammy winner from the funeral home to Midtown Detroit in his vintage 1940 Cadillac LaSalle hearse. He also handled services for his good friend, the Rev. C. L. Franklin. "I go way back with her father," said Swanson, president of Swanson Funeral Home. "He was a close friend of mine. He meant so much to this community." The Swansons talked of feeling honored to know the Franklin family over the years, and earn their trust to coordinate arrangements during this time of grief. Linda Swanson authorized information provided to the Free Press with the Franklin family. Trust is essential during times like these, Swanson said. She disclosed a big secret: Aretha Franklin will wear different clothing in coming days. "It's a surprise," Linda Swanson said. "Just natural changes in wardrobe that a queen would make." Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: [email protected] or 313-222-6512. Follow her on Twitter @phoebesaid
Mothers who drink alcohol during lactation could be affecting their breastfed baby’s cognitive abilities, according to a new study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The study found that when infants were exposed to alcohol through their mother’s breast milk, the child had a dose-dependent reduction in his or her cognitive ability by ages 6 and 7. By ages 10 and 11, though, this reduction was no longer evident. Louisa Gibson, a co-author of the study, said that while she wasn’t able to measure the cognitive reductions in a child once they reached 10 or 11 years old, that “doesn’t mean that the child has grown out of it, or that the effects of the mother’s alcohol consumption aren’t there anymore.” When measuring alcohol intake, Gibson gave the mothers a score based on two things: the amount of alcohol consumed and the pattern in which it was consumed. If the latter was deemed “risky,” it could contribute to a higher overall drinking score. “One woman could have one drink a day, leading to seven drinks per week,” Gibson explained, “whereas someone else can have seven drinks a week but drink them all on a Saturday within 10 minutes.” Gibson found that the higher the mother’s drinking score, the lower the child’s abstract reasoning ability, such as problem solving and thinking through a situation. The children’s cognitive abilities were observed and scored on a test called Matrix Reasoning. The child is presented with a complicated visual puzzle — a pattern with a piece missing. The child has to choose the missing piece from multiple-choice-style options. Gibson noted the difficulty of the test but said that it is a “fair measurement for actualizing a child’s cognitive ability.” She also gave the test to children who had never been breastfed. “The amount of alcohol (the nonbreastfeeding mother) drank was not related to the child’s scores on the cognitive test in any way,” said Gibson. “What that means is that the dependent responses we saw (with mothers who did breastfeed), we didn’t see that in babies who were never breastfed.” Gibson went on to reiterate that this finding gives “pretty good evidence that drinking while breastfeeding does affect the child.” Dr. Daniel Robinson, assistant professor of pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, says the study “provides more supportive evidence that the early childhood frame, especially during infancy, is critical for brain development.” “I do think that this study contributes to this notion that how and what we provide to babies — the nutrition we provide them — in that early time frame has long-lasting implications,” said Robinson, who has an expertise in infant nutrition and breast milk feedings. More than 5,100 Australian infants participated in the study, along with their caretakers. The babies began the process in 2004 and were tracked every two years, which Gibson says is a standard time frame. “Two years is a good time frame to where kids have developed enough, and it can be measured,” she said. “If you do too much time, you can miss out on a lot of the development. Any shorter, you will get so much data, and also for families, it tends to be too demanding.” Data for Gibson’s study were sourced from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, an ongoing study conducted by the Australian government examining how social and cultural variables affect physical and psychological development. She analyzed the data to answer her own question, how drinking does or does not affect breastfed babies. “The Growing Up in Australia researchers were interested in how much moms were drinking and also were interested in how children were developing over time,” said Gibson, “but they weren’t exactly asking the same question as me.” So she linked the two sets of data. Aside from the long-term cognitive effects, Robinson noted other outcomes of drinking alcohol during lactation. Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... “Both drinking and smoking can alter the quality and odour of the breast milk, and this can have implications on the feeding patterns of the baby,” he said. “Babies seem in tune to the smell of breast milk, and the feeding patterns can change including the number of sucks a baby makes, as well as the total amount of milk ingested.” Robinson also mentioned the effects alcohol has on sleeping. “The alcohol itself has been shown to alter sleep patterns in babies, and when you think about anyone’s cognitive function, we know reducing quality of sleep can have negative effects on brain function. What we’re doing early on is setting these kids up on a trajectory one way or another.”<doc-sep>No alcohol is safe while breastfeeding, new research suggests. Exposure to booze in breast milk reduces children's thinking and reasoning skills at six-to-seven years old, a study found. Alcohol is thought to damage babies' brain cells or could make breast milk less nutritious, leading to deficiencies, the researchers believe. Study author Louisa Gibson, from Macquarie University, Sydney, said: 'The safest option is to abstain from alcohol completely during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. 'This study suggests that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, with every extra drink causing a little bit more harm.' No alcohol is safe while breastfeeding, new research suggests (stock) DOES BREASTFEEDING AFFECT WOMEN'S RISK OF CANCER? Breastfeeding reduces a woman's risk of breast cancer, a report suggested in August 2017. For every five months a woman breastfeeds, her risk of developing breast cancer is lowered by two percent, a study review found. Researchers believe breastfeeding protects women against the condition as it makes them temporarily stop getting periods, which reduces their lifetime exposure to the hormone oestrogen. High oestrogen levels have previously been linked to developing breast cancer. Breastfeeding may also help to remove cells with damaged DNA that may otherwise lead to tumor onset. The researchers, from the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund, analysed 18 studies that examined breastfeeding. Of these, 13 investigated the effects of the length of time spent lactating. The report also found that carrying excess weight after menopause increases a woman's risk of developing breast cancer, yet it is protective while women are still able to conceive. For both pre- and postmenopausal women, alcohol increases their risk of breast cancer and exercise reduces it, the report adds. Babies who are breastfed are also less likely to gain weight in later life, the study found. Study author Alice Bender said: 'It isn't always possible for moms to breastfeed but for those who can, know that breastfeeding can offer cancer protection for both the mother and the child.' Advertisement How the research was carried out The researchers analysed more than 5,000 mothers and babies, born in 2004, from Australia. Every two years, the youngsters were assessed. The findings were published in the journal Pediatrics. Alcohol affects babies' abilities to sleep and eat Results further suggest children's thinking and reasoning skills are not affected if their mothers drank during their infancy but did not breastfeed. Ms Gibson said: 'This lack of association in babies who had never been breastfed suggests that the reduction in [thinking and reasoning] abilities was a direct result of the alcohol in the breast milk, and not because of other social aspects related to drinking.' Alcohol may also affect babies' abilities to feed and sleep, making them less responsive to environmental stimulants. Dr Ron Marino, from NYU Winthrop Hospital, argues this could affect communication between infants' brain cells. The findings further suggest such children's thinking and reasoning skills are no longer affected by the time they turn 10, as well as implying smoking while breastfeeding does not impact youngsters' cognitive abilities. Experts argue, however, the latter is unlikely due to cigarettes being known to affect foetal health. Breastfeeding reduces women's risk of pain after a C-section This comes after research released in June last year suggested breastfeeding reduces the discomfort of painful C-sections. Mothers who breastfeed for at least two months after a C-section are three times less likely to experience persistent pain than those who do so for a shorter period of time, the study by Our Lady of Valme hospital, Seville, found. Some 23 per cent of women who breastfeed for less than two months report pain at the site of their C-section versus just eight per cent who breastfeed for longer, the research adds. Anxiety significantly increases a woman's risk of suffering discomfort after the operation, the study also revealed.<doc-sep>
We may need to rethink the whole "some alcohol while breastfeeding is OK" idea. At least that's what a new study is saying. Before we go further, let us make this very clear: This article is not meant to mom shame. We just want to let you know what the experts are finding. And this one is interesting. But keep in mind, this is one study in what will likely be many, many more. New research shows drinking while breastfeeding may negatively impact children's cognition The journal "Pediatrics" released a study this month called "Drinking or Smoking While Breastfeeding and Later Cognition in Children." The study examined 5,107 Australian infants starting in 2004. They checked in every two years until the kids were 11 to assess relationships between drinking and smoking habits of breastfeeding mothers and children’s "abstract reasoning." At the biennial meetings, mothers answered questionnaires about their alcohol consumption and smoking practices while breastfeeding. Children completed three tests to evaluate their cognitive abilities. The study found that "increased or riskier maternal alcohol consumption" while breastfeeding was associated with reduced abstract reasoning in children ages 6 and 7. That link was not present, however, in children ages 8 to 11. The study said that may be because of the children's increased education at that age. The link was also not present in 6- and 7-year-olds who had never been breastfed, "suggesting a direct relationship between alcohol exposure through breastmilk and decreased cognition." There was no link associated between smoking and children's cognitive development. That doesn't necessarily mean it's safe to smoke while breastfeeding, though. This study only analyzed cognition, not the impacts on overall health and wellbeing. What do other sources say? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "not drinking is the safest option for breastfeeding mothers." But about one adult beverage per day is generally "not known to be harmful," the CDC says, "especially if the mother waits at least two hours after a single drink before nursing." Once a mother's alcohol consumption exceeds one drink a day that it is known to negatively impact a child's "development, growth and sleep patterns." Mothers who drink alcohol excessively could also experience reduced milk production. Should moms pump and dump? If you're looking to reduce the amount of alcohol in your breastmilk, pumping and dumping will not do that. Only waiting until the alcohol has left your system will. "The alcohol level in breast milk is essentially the same as the alcohol level in a mother’s bloodstream," the CDC says. So if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is high, the level of alcohol in your milk will be high. If you pump within two hours of consuming a serving of alcohol, it may be best to dump it to reduce your "infant's exposure to alcohol...Breast milk continues to contain alcohol as long as alcohol is still in the mother's bloodstream." Like All the Moms? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter. READ MORE:
Who will emerge victorious and claim the trophy on Sunday evening? That is the question we pose every year as the U.S. Open approaches. Though the field may be 156 competitors deep, less than one-third of those participating in this nation's championship truly have an opportunity to emerge as a major title holder. Will Tiger Woods win his first event in five years? Is it time for Phil Mickelson to finally compete the career slam at a course he knows quite well at Shinnecock Hills in Southampton, New York? Perhaps one of the young 20-something golfers tearing up the PGA Tour make a name for himself during the second major of the year. Narrowing all of this down to a champion and top finishers is a tough task, but we here at CBS Sports are certainly up to it. Let's take a look at our staff's expert picks and predictions for the 118th edition of the U.S. Open. 2018 U.S. Open predictions Kyle Porter, golf writer Winner -- Rickie Fowler: I have agonized over this. I picked Dustin Johnson on our First Cut podcast, which was recorded on Monday of U.S. Open week, but I'm officially changing it to Fowler the day before the event. He checks every box for me this week. He'll be patient on a tough course. He can handle the wind and changing conditions. He's top 10 on the PGA Tour in scrambling. Everything clicked into place for him at Augusta National (where I also picked him). It just makes sense to me that Fowler would win this event in this year. Everything else has felt like a crescendo. Somebody please remind me of this when D.J. rolls by seven on Sunday! Top 10 lock -- Jason Day: I don't love the strokes gained on approach shots (outside the top 150 is not a great look), but boy is he tough at U.S. Opens. Top 10 in four of the last five and five of the last seven, and he he already has two wins this year to prove that he's on current form. Best short game in the business right now, which will come in handy after how hard and fast the greens and run-off areas get later on this week. Sleeper -- Luke List (150-1): The top eight golfers from tee to green on the PGA Tour this year are Johnson, Justin Thomas, Henrik Stenson, Jordan Spieth, Tiger Woods, Adam Scott, Justin Rose ... and List. That's a pretty incredible list (pun intended) to be slicing down the middle as List is in centered in that pack. As is the case with most great ball-strikers, if he putts, he could have a chance. Top 5 in order: Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson, Justin Thomas, Tommy Fleetwood, Jason Day Bold prediction: Rory McIlroy misses his third straight U.S. Open cut. I'm certainly not hoping for this, but he's struggled the last two years with U.S. Opens after a furious finish at Chambers Bay in 2015. I'm fascinated to see if he can solve a complex puzzle in Shinnecock. Recent form says he can, but I think his brawl with this track will be short and swift. Lowest round: 65 (-5) Winning score: 276 (-4) Winner's Sunday score: 69 (-1) Chip Patterson, writer Winner -- Dustin Johnson: Instead of the hand-wringing necessary to choose another golfer, we can make this simple: the 2018 U.S. Open runs through Dustin Johnson. There's not another golfer on the planet who has been better over the last three years than DJ, but his "athletically arrogant swing" (copyright Kyle Porter) and dominant distance off the tee is not the reason to like him at Shinnecock Hills. It's the short game, particularly getting up-and-down, that looks dialed in and can help him win his second national championship in three years. Top 10 lock -- Rickie Fowler: Compared to 2017, Fowler's statistics alone would suggest a bumpy start to the year, not the blazing performance at Augusta and a top-10 finish at the Memorial. Where last year's U.S. Open at Erin Hills was a wide-open, high-octane race to the lowest score, we're anticipating more U.S. Open-like scores this week and I think Fowler's game is in a position to grind out a top-10 finish for sure, and possibly a win. Sleeper -- Kyle Stanley (150-1): There are two areas where Kyle Stanley, runner-up to Bryson DeChambeau at the Memorial, has shown a strength in his game that I think is going to benefit him at Shinnecock Hills: driving accuracy and greens in regulation. Stanley is fourth on the PGA Tour in both statistics, converting at a more than 70 percent clip in both categories. With penal rough added in the last year to the fairways and run-off areas that are going turn birdies into bogeys, Stanley's ball-striking could make him a surprise at this year's championship. Top 5 in order: Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm, Rickie Fowlerr, Justin Thomas, Phil Mickelson Bold prediction: Louis Oosthuizen finishes top 10. If you can't hold the greens at Shinnecock Hills, you better be good around the green and no one has been better at scrambling this season than Oosty. A runner-up in four majors since winning the The Open Championship in 2010 -- twice in a playoff -- it's time we start considering the South African with a sharp short game as an annual threat at any of these top-tier tournaments. Lowest round: 65 (-5) Winning score: 273 (-7) Winner's Sunday score: 69 (-1) Who will win the 2018 U.S. Open, and which long shots are set to stun the golfing world? Find out by visiting SportsLine now to see the U.S. Open projected leaderboard from the model that's nailed four of the last five majors heading into the weekend. Matt Norlander, writer Winner -- Jon Rahm: Let's have some fun with this one. Rahm's controversial propensity for unleashing his passion and frustration on the course is hard to turn away from. Still, he's damn good. He finished fourth at The Masters in April and already owns five professional tour wins. You realize he's only 23, yes? Shinnecock's a fantastic U.S. Open course because of its no-size-fits-all setup. No one player has a game that can fully take advantage of what this course provides. Because of that, I think it's particularly tough to project a winner this year. I'll go with Rahm on the belief that his natural talent and consistency in winning tournaments gives him a nice shot at another finish in a major near or at the top of the leaderboard. Top 10 lock -- Justin Thomas: The No. 1 player in the FedEx Cup standings at this point, and a top-three player in tee-to-green in 2018. Month to month, he's as good and consistent as any player not named Dustin Johnson. I think Thomas is more reliable in a big spot than Johnson. I think he's a very safe pick to finish in the top 10. Sleeper -- Webb Simpson (66-1): Very tempting pick. His season-long stats give him a great case as a dark horse to take this tournament. First of all, the 32-year-old has won this event before (2012). He enters this week's Open tournament by ranking fourth in PGA Tour scoring average, second in scrambling and fifth in putting efficiency. In May, he won the Players with an aggregate 18-under. The window is very much open for him if he putts to the best of his ability. Top 5 in order: Jon Rahm, Adam Scott, Webb Simpson, Jordan Spieth, Dustin Johnson Bold prediction: The course winds up being the star of the event. Shinnecock Hills is held in high regard among golf purists, and after a botched hosting job at the 2004 U.S. Open, there's a lot riding on this year's tournament. Fairways have been reshaped, a return to fescue grass has been made, the pin positions should be better and the greens much more forgiving than 14 years ago. You won't see any trees, which will give it a British Open-type of feel as you watch on television. The players who can take advantage of their creativity with shots and aggressiveness in approaching the greens will be the ones atop the leaderboard on Sunday. Playing it safe is a guarantee to not winning the trophy. Lowest round: 66 (-4) Winning score: 275 (-5) Winner's Sunday score: 68 (-2) Adam Silverstein, assistant managing editor Winner -- Justin Thomas: I was having a hard time deciding between Johnson, Fowler and Rahm ... and then I saw those above already claimed all three. Fine. While everyone focuses on D.J. and Tiger Woods over the first two rounds, Justin Thomas will be right there in the threesome knocking in birdies and pars. He is long off the tee and calm under pressure. Considering the difficulties it appears Shinnecock Hills will throw at these golfers, I'll look for Thomas to win his fifth event and second major in the last 10 months. I wonder if Jordan Spieth feels Thomas running down his golden boy crown from behind? Top 10 lock -- Dustin Johnson: If I'm not picking D.J. to win, you can bet I'm sliding him in here as an absolute lock to finish among the top 10 on the leaderboard Sunday. The No. 1 golfer in the world will be giving that title right back to Thomas after taking it from him just last weekend, but that's OK. He's longer off the tee than Thomas and has just as good of a short game, if not better. Still, we all remember what happened in 2014 and 2015, right? Johnson did pick up his first and only major win one year later, but he missed the cut in 2017 and has not finished better than eighth in a major since that U.S. Open. Sleeper -- Adam Scott (66-1): It took a big-time effort for Scott to sneak into the field and continue his major streak, but he qualified and will have an opportunity to surprise this week. Scott also has an extra club in the bag, so to speak, after hiring Lenny Bummolo as his caddie for the tournament. Who is Bummolo, exactly? He's a 60-year-old native of East Islip, New York, who previously caddied for Scott at Shinnecock when the 2013 Masters champion shot a 63. There's too many fun storylines here for Scott not to be in the conversation on Sunday. Top 5 in order: Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Rickie Fowler Bold prediction: Tiger Woods will be inside the top 10 and within four strokes of the lead at some point during Round 3. We have seen Woods get off to slow starts and even struggle to make the cut in his first full season back, but when he gets an opportunity on Moving Day ... he moves. Woods will ultimately fall out of contention and not be in one of the final few pairings on Sunday, but he will surprise and excite at some point this week just as he always seems to. Lowest round: 65 (-5) Winning score: 273 (-7) Winner's Sunday score: 67 (-3)<doc-sep>Here are the Post’s pick for this week’s U.S. Open at Shinnecock: Mark Cannizzaro Jason Day: Yes, he hasn’t won a U.S. Open. But he’s played in seven of them and finished in the top-10 five times. He’s also a great driver with one of the best short games in the land, and he’s leading the PGA Tour in strokes gained putting. That all should lead to a second career major for the popular Aussie. Dustin Johnson: The 2016 U.S. Open winner won last week in Memphis, so he’s in form, and he’s one of the longest drivers in the game. Shinnecock will favor the long hitters this week. Phil Mickelson: The runner-up in 2004 the last time the Open was played at Shinnecock, has been targeting this week all year. Expect him to be in the mix on the weekend. Whether he has the stamina to pull it off on Sunday is the question. Justin Rose: The 2013 U.S. Open winner is in form, having won three weeks ago in Texas, his second win of the year. Rafael Cabrera-Bello: Top-10 finishes in his past two starts and his caddie is Colin Byrne, Retief Goosen’s caddie when Goosen won the 2004 U.S. Open at Shinnecock. Karma pick here. Brett Cyrgalis Jordan Spieth: Maybe the putter hasn’t been great as of late, but his innate ability to scramble and to stay patient will pay off. Justin Rose: The pure ball striking will give him an advantage from tee-to-green, and a recently hot putter should help. Rickie Fowler: Either the recent engagement to his girlfriend is going to free his mind, or it’s going to bury him. Thinking the former. Justin Thomas: The young gun has gotten over the major hump winning last year’s PGA Championship, and playing with idol Tiger Woods will only get him more excited. Dustin Johnson: The long-bomber is always going to have an advantage off the tee, but his recent form with his approach shots will be the key in the wind. Mike Vaccaro Justin Thomas: No better time or place to make the sport his own. Jordan Spieth: Could really use “next major” as much as most need “first major.” Dustin Johnson: If he plays four rounds at the top of his game the rest of the world is fighting for second. Rickie Fowler: It’s going to happen for him one of these days; why not these four days? Patrick Reed: If he ever recaptured the magic of Augusta the New York crowd will adopt him in a second. George Willis Dustin Johnson: The world No. 1 not only has the long game to overpower Shinnecock, but the short game that will be needed to win. Justin Thomas: He should be in the mix come Sunday and has already proven he can capture a major win. Louis Oosthuizen: He has the experience, patience and solid all-around game needed to survive the most grueling test in golf. Tommy Fleetwood: The Englishman keeps knocking on the door to announce his arrival. This could be the weekend. Patrick Reed: Captain America figures to feed off a crowd that won’t be shy about cheering on the Masters champion.<doc-sep>
While it's true that 156 golfers will tee it up at the 2018 U.S. Open this week in Southampton, New York, that does not mean any golfer in the field can win the 118th edition of our nation's championship. There are probably 20 or 30 -- or maybe 50 -- who have a real chance at taking the second major of 2018. And even then, I would say the bottom 40 have an equivalent chance of winning as the top 10. That's why you end up with gambling props like this one projecting the U.S. Open champion. D. Johnson/Spieth/McIlroy/Thomas/Day/Fowler/Rahm/Rose/Woods: -115 Field (Any Other Player): -115 The last seven U.S. Open champions have been, in order: Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Martin Kaymer, Justin Rose, Webb Simpson and Rory McIlroy. That's a murderer's row of greatness, and it speaks to how difficult it is for anyone outside the top 10 or 20 in the world to emerge as champion of this event in this week. Shinnecock, too, has produced sublime leaderboards. The last two winners -- Corey Pavin in 1995 and Retief Goosen in 1994 -- have both been ranked in the top 10 in the world at the time they won here. Take a look at the top 10 from the last three U.S. Opens here. Shinnecock is a winnowing fork of sorts. It might not show through 18 holes or even 36, but by the time that 72nd hole rolls around on Sunday, this course will deliver a world class board rife with the best players on the planet. Based on all of this information, here is the pool of nine golfers from which I think the eventual winner is coming (in no particular order). Phil Mickelson We're at the point of the week where I've legitimately talked myself into Mickelson finishing what he started in 2004 and finally winning his first U.S. Open. My biggest concern for Lefty this week is that this is his third event in a row, and he's struggled in the past few years with physical and mental energy. Rickie Fowler This U.S. Open feels very Fowler-ish. Potentially windy, difficult conditions at a place where patience through 72 holes is rewarded and shot-making is paramount? Maybe the buildup over the past 10 years has all been pointing to this. Justin Thomas Because Shinnecock tests every aspect of your game, Thomas should probably be next-closest favorite to Dustin Johnson. We think of him in terms of a bomber off the tee, but every part of his game is solid, including his ability to get up and down (9th on the PGA Tour), which could prove monumental this week given how many greens these guys are going to barely miss. Jason Day Speaking of guys who can get up and down! Day ranks No. 4 in that category so far this season, and (somewhat interestingly for someone who traditionally hits the ball like he does) I'm actually more concerned about his ball-striking. He's 177th on the PGA Tour in strokes gained on approach shots so far in 2018. If that trend continues this week, he'll have absolutely no chance. But four top 10s in his last five U.S. Opens (as well as two wins so far this calendar year) put me at ease. Dustin Johnson He's the best player alive: No. 1 in scoring average, strokes gained off the tee, strokes gained from tee to green and strokes gained overall. He's also top 10 in scrambling and No. 20 in putting. The U.S. Open runs through Johnson. Jordan Spieth I had Jon Rahm in this slot because he's hotter coming in, but shame on me for ever excluding Spieth on any list of nine guys who can win any major championship for the next decade. That's how historically good he has proven to be. Brooks Koepka I worry about the driving inaccuracy a little bit, but he's only percentage points behind D.J. in this category, so it's not a massive concern. I also get dubious about guys going back to back at the U.S. Open in this era. It hasn't happened in 30 years, and it's nearly impossible because of the depth of these fields. Still, he's among the nine with a real chance after the way he's played since coming back from injury (two top-12 finishes in five starts). Tommy Fleetwood Two Englishmen to close, both of them ball-striking savants.
It's a date that Islanders fans have likely had circled on their calendars for a long time, but Thursday will mark the first time that John Tavares returns to Long Island as a visiting player. The Islanders and Maple Leafs met once earlier this season in Toronto, but this will be the first matchup between the two teams on Long Island. It marks the long-anticipated return of Tavares, the former Islanders hero who became a villain to many when he left the team this past summer. Thursday's matchup -- which can be streamed in the N.Y. market via fuboTV (Try for free) at 7 p.m. ET -- brings one of the most intriguing storylines of the entire regular season, so here's what you need to know about the situation as the Isles and Leafs prepare to face off at Nassau Coliseum. Why is it a big deal? To put it simply, Tavares was the Islanders' most important player for most of the past decade. After being drafted first overall by the team in 2009, Tavares went on to become the captain and face of the franchise over the next nine seasons. He put up impressive numbers during his tenure with the Isles, scoring 272 goals (seventh-most in franchise history) and 621 points (fifth-most), all before hitting the age of 28. He was on pace to become an Islanders legend. But for all his personal achievements, the Isles didn't experience much team success during Tavares' tenure. They reached the playoffs just three times in those nine years, winning only one postseason series during that stretch. As the Islanders struggled in the standings once again last season, there were many questions about Tavares' impending free-agent status and his future with the club. During the season, though, Tavares maintained that he was committed to the Islanders and that his focus was on making the playoffs with New York. (They ultimately missed the postseason.) After the season, Tavares was heavily courted by interested teams, including the Islanders, during his free agency tour. New York revamped its leadership in hopes of convincing Tavares to stay, hiring head coach Barry Trotz immediately after he won the Stanley Cup behind the Capitals' bench and signing veteran exec Lou Lamoriello to lead their front office. Ultimately, despite saying several times in the past that he wanted to retire an Islander, Tavares ultimately chose the team that he felt gave him the best chance to win and signed a seven-year, $77 million deal with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs. How will he be received? Many Islanders fans felt betrayed and spurned by Tavares' departure, especially considering his comments regarding his commitment to the team and retiring on Long Island, and have villainized the former captain for not being transparent enough throughout the process. Perhaps the eight months separating Tavares' free agency decision and this reunion in Long Island have helped to reduce the bitterness for some. But considering this "Dear John" video that was released this week in anticipation of Thursday's game, there's still plenty of animosity held by some. With that in mind, there should be plenty of boos for Tavares when he takes the ice at Nassau Coliseum on Thursday night. However, there are also a number of Islanders fans who are able to put aside their disappointment over Tavares' departure and recognize his contributions to the franchise over the past decade. Many of those fans also acknowledge that the front office didn't do enough to build a winning team around Tavares and convince him to stay on Long Island. As such, I'd expect a pretty mixed reaction from the home crowd on Thursday, though boos often tend to be a bit louder than appreciative cheers. Where are they now? The Islanders have fared surprisingly well without Tavares this season and head into Thursday's game with 79 points in the standings, tying them with Washington for the top spot in the Metropolitan division. (New York has played two less games than Washington, making them the first-place team in regards to point percentage.) Under the leadership of Trotz, the Islanders have gone from the league's worst defensive team a season ago to the NHL's top defensive squad this year. The Isles are allowing a league-low 2.32 goals against per game this season. Twenty-one-year-old Sophomore phenom Mat Barzal leads all Islanders in points this year with 51 (17 goals and 34 assists). As for the Maple Leafs, it enters Thursday with 82 points on the year, which trails Boston by a single point for second-place in the Atlantic division. The Leafs rank top-ten in both goals per game (fourth) and goals against per game (eighth) and, despite some struggles with consistency, are considered one of the most dangerous and explosive teams in the league. Tavares has fit in very well in his first season with Toronto and he's currently second on the team in points with 68. His 36 goals on the year lead the team, with 29 of those tallies coming at even-strength. He's projected to finish the year with 47 goals, which would be the first time in his career that he's hit the 40-goal mark. All things considered, both sides are in a pretty great spot as we head into this long-awaited reunion. What are they saying? Islanders coach Barry Trotz: Toronto Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock: Tavares himself:<doc-sep>Islanders fans flocked to NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum for the Islanders' game against John Tavares and the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. It's Tavares' first game back at the Coliseum since leaving the Islanders in free agency on July 1, 2018. Islanders fans cheer after a goal in the first period against the Maple Leafs at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Islanders fans cheer after a goal in the first period against the Maple Leafs at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. John Tavares of the Maple Leafs warms up before a game against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Patrick Dowd of Bay Shore holds a banner in reference to former New York Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Fans pose for a photograph in front of a banner in reference to former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Nick Martorano of Lindenhurst poses for a photograph with a jersey of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Steven Silverman, left, of Cedarhurst and Charlie Summers of Rockville Centre pose for a photograph wearing jerseys of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Christian Forte of East Quogue poses for a photograph with a jersey of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Islanders fans arrive for a game against the Maple Leafs at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Islanders fans arrive for a game against the Maple Leafs at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. Islanders fans arrive for a game against the Maple Leafs at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. An Islanders fan wears a jersey of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. An Islanders fan wears a jersey of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. John Tavares of the Maple Leafs warms up before a game against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. John Tavares of the Maple Leafs warms up before a game against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019. An Islanders fan wears a jersey of former Islander John Tavares, who will be playing for the Maple Leafs in his first game back on Long Island against the Islanders at NYCB Live's Nassau Coliseum on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019.<doc-sep>UNIONDALE, N.Y. — It had been 242 days since John Tavares signed a seven-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. It had been 242 days since he left New York and Islanders fans behind. They did not welcome him back with open arms. "I expected it was coming," Tavares said. "No one has walked in my shoes so I know that and I tried to be open and honest. Obviously, no one has to like my decision but I just tried to explain what it is and how I got to that point. So, it is what it is. I made my decision. I moved forward so just going to try and go out there and play. " The atmosphere inside the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum was intense. Chants resonated throughout the Old Barn from the moment Tavares hit the ice for warmups as fans expressed their dismay with Tavares' decision to leave. "I thought the energy was spectacular in warmup, at the start of the game," Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock said. "The whole thing. You must be a real special player, a real special person for them to honor you like that because they only boo if you're important." DEADLINE WINNERS & LOSERS Blue Jackets, Golden Knights go big; Flames go home empty-handed The booing continued during a video tribute in the first period that was shown on the Jumbotron, completely drowning out the audio. To his credit, Tavares watched the entire presentation along with both benches and acknowledged the crowd after. "They’re obviously a passionate fan base," noted Zach Hyman, who scored the Leafs' lone goal in a lopsided 6-1 loss. "Would rather play in a game like that than a game that’s quiet. It’s good for us, it’s a good learning experience. This is what playoff hockey is like, it’s loud, fans are in your face, it’s passionate, it’s exciting. We were embarrassed tonight but we’ll learn from it." Every Maple Leaf who spoke postgame, including Babcock, said the team wanted to win the game for Tavares. Unfortunately, the team was on the second night of a back-to-back and came up short as turnovers and poor puck management in the neutral zone plagued it. "We really wanted it for John," said Justin Holl, who suited up for only the third time this season. "He’s a huge part of our team and a great guy, so this was one that we really wanted. It’s disappointing but at the same time it’s one game in a season of 82, so it’s just time to bounce back." Sporting News provided updates from John Tavares' first game back on Long Island. Maple Leafs vs. Islanders: Score, highlights (All times Eastern) 9:50 p.m. — During Tavares' postgame presser, a fan can be heard yelling into the tunnel, "John, you suck!" 9:39 p.m. — Robin Lehner, Brock Nelson and Casey Cizikas earn stars of the night. Lehner throws a puck and his stick into the crowd. Fans chant "MVP" during Cizikas' postgame interview. Final: Islanders 6, Maple Leafs 1 9:34 p.m. — Fans chanting, "Let's go Islanders." 9:32 p.m. — Fans chanting, "Na-na-na-na, na-na-na-na, hey hey hey, goodbye." 9:30 p.m. — The fans' creativity on the Island knows no bounds. Ruthless Islanders fans chant “It’s your bedtime” and “Where’s your jammies?” during the third period of Tavares' return to Long Island pic.twitter.com/GWqYdf66Il — Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) March 1, 2019 9:21 p.m. — Fans came dressed. 9:15 p.m. — Fans possibly chanting, "Who's your daddy?" 9:14 p.m. — GOAL. Jordan Eberle with time behind the net feeds a crashing Brock Nelson, who buries it. Fair to say, the Islanders are showing John Tavares they definitely don't need him. A quick reminder, though: The Leafs are on a back-to-back and down two defensemen. Islanders lead 6-1. 9:13 p.m. — Fans are cheering, this game is pretty much over. 9:02 p.m. — GOAL. The Islanders extend their lead as Nick Leddy scores. Islanders lead 5-1. End of second period: Islanders 4, Maple Leafs 1 8:41 p.m. — Johnny Boychuk pinches Mitchell Marner skating down the boards and Marner's skate comes up and clips Boychuk. The defenseman immediately grabs his neck and skates off. 8:40 p.m. — GOAL. Scramble in front and Valtteri Filppula sends the puck over Sparks. Competing "We don't need you" erupt. Islanders lead 4-1. 8:32 p.m. — Coliseum erupts; not for a goal, but for The Karate Kid himself, Ralph Macchio. May have been the biggest roar of the night. 8:30 p.m. — Fans chanting, "We don't need you." 8:29 p.m. — GOAL. Casey Cizikas, short-handed, steals the puck from Tyler Ennis above the circle on the boards, skates down and beats Sparks five-hole. Islanders lead 3-1. 8:27 p.m. — Leafs back on the power play. 8:21 p.m. — At the whistle, pushing and shoving. Justin Holl with the facewash on Cal Clutterbuck, who throws a punch and rips Holl's helmet off. No penalties. Chippiness level elevated. 8:17 p.m. — Goal is waved off. Wes McCauley (of course) with the dramatic pause before saying "offside" and the crowd erupts. 8:17 p.m. — Hold on, the goal is being reviewed. Looks like Hyman may have been offside. Islanders lead 2-1. 8:15 p.m. — GOAL. Mitchell Marner skates across the ice in the offensive zone, drawing both defensemen to him and leaving Zach Hyman all alone for the easy goal. Hyman's second of the night. Game tied 2-2. 8:14 p.m. — Tavares almost scores off his leg as Scott Mayfield cross-checks him 8:10 p.m. — "Let's Go Islanders" chants erupt. 8:09 p.m. — GOAL. Brock Nelson feeds the captain Anders Lee who scores easily past a diving Garret Sparks. The Old Barn erupts. Islanders lead 2-1. The @NYIslanders captain gives the home team the lead after a sweet dish from Brock Nelson!!! #Isles pic.twitter.com/aCzrtUcWuF — MSG Networks (@MSGNetworks) March 1, 2019 8:07 p.m. — Tavares behind the goal line takes a couple of cross-checks from ex-teammate Mat Barzal. 8:02 p.m. — The answer is "No". Tavares lines up for faceoff deep in own end to boos.<doc-sep>The boos drenched John Tavares the moment he emerged from the tunnel and stepped out on the ice for warm-ups. Then a fan threw an Islanders jersey at him on the way off. When the game began, the boos from Islanders fans echoed throughout the Coliseum every time he touched the puck. And then there were the chants from the loud, hostile crowd: “We don’t need you.” “You’re a li-ar.” “JT sucks.” Subscribe to Newsday’s sports newsletter Receive stories, photos and videos about your favorite New York teams plus national sports news and events. By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy. The Metropolitan Division-leading Islanders beat Toronto, 6-1, on Thursday night, keeping Tavares off the scoresheet, and the fans showed no mercy toward the former captain as he returned for the first time against his old team. He wasn’t expecting a loving, welcome-back embrace. “No one’s walked in my shoes,” Tavares said. “I know that. I tried to be open and honest. Obviously, no one has to like [it].” A video tribute rolled during a stoppage about midway through the first period. The highlights appeared from Tavares’ nine years with the Islanders, clips of his on-ice work, his hospital visits, his interactions with kids. But the soundtrack was drowned out by a mix of boos and chants, including one not fit for print. The tribute closed with the words “Thank You John” on the screen. More loud boos. “Obviously, it would be nice to take a moment to recognize, but obviously they have their feelings,” Tavares said. While the fans didn’t appreciate the video tribute, Tavares did. “Obviously, he made an impression on the fan base,” teammate Patrick Marleau said. “If they didn’t care, they probably wouldn’t do anything.” This return had been anticipated since July 1, when Tavares bolted as a free agent for the team of his childhood dreams. He made the point clearly that day by posting a photo on Twitter of himself as a kid sleeping between a Maple Leafs sheet and blanket. Tavares asked the Islanders not to trade him at the deadline last February. Throughout last season, he sounded as if he hoped to re-sign. So when he decided to go play near where he grew up on a seven-year, $77 million deal, the fans felt led on and abandoned. “As I’ve said, it was probably the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make in my life and obviously it took me some time to do it because of how difficult it was, and I wasn’t really sure what I really wanted to do until I obviously made the decision,” Tavares said. He had a message for the Islanders’ fan base: “I loved it here and gave it everything I had.” Tavares gave the Islanders 272 regular-season goals and 11 playoff goals, including the double-OT clincher in the first round against Florida in 2016. The 28-year-old center is having another big season, contributing 36 goals and 32 assists for Toronto, which sits third in the Atlantic Division. “The reality is he’s not a kid,” coach Mike Babcock said. “I don’t know whether he’d tell you or not, but he’s happy with what he’s decided to do, and it’s all part of life.” While Tavares has moved on, he hasn’t forgotten what it meant to him to be an Islander. “It meant the world to me,” he said. “I took a lot of pride in playing here and being an Islander and being the captain and doing everything I could to help this team get to where we wanted to get to. Unfortunately, we didn’t accomplish that. They are nine years I’ll never forget, a big part of my life and a big part of who I am, too.”<doc-sep>
Not even the angriest among the sellout crowd of jilted fans on Thursday night at NYCB Lives Nassau Coliseum likely could have imagined it going so well for their Islanders. Ex-captain John Tavares made his first return to his former home rink after bolting via free agency for a seven-year, $77 million deal with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs. The miserable homecoming had less to do with booing and often-profane chants and all to do with how well the Islanders played. Helped by a three-goal second period, the Islanders thrashed the Maple Leafs, 6-1, before a deafening roar from 13,917. I think we kind of expected a little bit of that, center Mathew Barzal said of the charged, playoff-like atmosphere. I didnt think it was going to be like that. It was something Ive never played in before. It was one of the coolest moments of my life, said goalie Robin Lehner, who made 34 saves. Im going to remember this for a long time. I go out in warmups and I always listen to music and try and get into the game. But I couldnt hear it. It was so loud during warmups. It was a crucial win for the Metropolitan Division-leading Islanders (37-19-7). They moved two points ahead of the second-place Capitals who will visit on Friday night after opening this five-game homestand with a 3-1 loss to the Flames on Tuesday night. Subscribe to Newsday’s sports newsletter Receive stories, photos and videos about your favorite New York teams plus national sports news and events. By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy. It marked the Islanders second dominant performance against the Maple Leafs after a 4-0 win at Toronto on Dec. 29. The teams will play in the Islanders home finale on April 1. The atmosphere was definitely up there, said Casey Cizikas, whose goal gave him a career-high 18. Thats what you strive for in the playoffs. You want home-ice advantage because you want atmospheres like that on your side. Garret Sparks made 31 saves for the Maple Leafs (39-21-4), who beat the visiting Oilers, 6-2, on Wednesday night. The fans showed their spirited displeasure in many ways. Some plastic snakes were hurled onto the ice during warmups, and there was loud booing every time Tavares touched the puck. The Maple Leafs arrival on the ice was preceded by We Dont Need You chants fans held signs saying the same as well as less-wholesome screaming. As Tavares left the ice after warmups, an Islanders jersey was thrown at him. Some fans wore Islanders No. 91 jerseys with Tavares nameplate replaced by, among others, Traitor and Pajama Boy. Outside, some Tavares jerseys were burned in garbage bins. Another fan ran over a Tavares jersey with an SUV. I did expect it was coming, said Tavares, who had five shots on goal in 17 minutes of ice time. No one has walked in my shoes. I know that. I tried to be open and honest. Obviously, no one has to like it. Not even a classy tribute at 9:59 of the first period, which was drowned out by booing and cursed chants, mollified the crowd. Tavares skated a lap after the 90-second video highlighting his nine seasons with the Islanders, including his community work, and raised his stick in appreciation to the crowd as players from both teams tapped their sticks in respect. That only brought a JT Sucks chant, followed by Youre a Liar. They could have maybe given him a round of applause, Cal Clutterbuck said. He put everything he had into winning here. But I understand both sides. The Islanders led 4-1 through two periods after a potential Maple Leafs equalizer was overturned on an offside challenge. Anders Lee made it 2-1 off the rush at 4:49, and after Zach Hymans potential goal was waved off at 7:12, Cizikas shorthanded goal made it 3-1 at 13:40. That brought the loudest We Dont Need You chant. Valtteri Filppula pushed it to 4-1 at 19:00 and Nick Leddys slap shot made it 5-1 just 33 seconds into the third period (Cizikas originally got credit for the goal). Nelson scored at 8:41 and the crowd chanted Whos Your Daddy? Tavares was on the ice for both first-period goals as Hyman made it 1-0 at 13:33 and Anthony Beauvillier tied it at 16:16 off a three-on-one rush.
TOKYO – The sights and sounds of the baseball day were anything but usual for the Mariners on Sunday at the Tokyo Dome, where they took on the Yomiuri Giants in the first of two exhibition games leading up to their season opener against the A’s Wednesday night (or early Wednesday morning back in Seattle). Drayer: Ichiro’s future the focus at Tokyo Dome When the team arrived at the Tokyo Dome, the Giants were holding batting practice, which in Japan is a two-cage event. Two pitchers throw to two hitters in side-by-side gold batting cages on the field. The hitting is not just limited to the in-play area, as batters hit into a net behind the cages at home plate as well. While the Mariners worked out with just one hitting cage on the field, they did utilize the batting practice catchers the Giants provided in addition to the ball boys in the outfield, who recovered any baseballs the players did not go after and deposited them into a small cart. The show during batting practice was once again Ichiro. Fans arrived at the park two hours early to watch batting practice and lined the lower rows of the stadium the entire time. They oohed and ahhhed every time a ball was hit in Ichiro’s direction, and much like he did on Sunday morning home games last year at Safeco Field, Ichiro put on a little show from time to time, going for behind-the-back catches much to the crowd’s delight. Throughout batting practice and the game, it appeared safety was of the utmost importance. Whistles were blown when it looked like a ball could leave the field of play – fair or foul. Announcements of “Please watch out for foul balls” were made during the game every time a foul ball went into the stands. An announcement about what to do in the case of an earthquake (stay in the Tokyo Dome, it is very safe) was made multiple times throughout the game. While there was safety in the dome from a potentially shaking earth, walking the concourse was a different hazard altogether. While the announced crowd of 46,315 was about 9,000 shy of capacity, every seat with the exception of the suite level appeared to be taken, and standing room only areas behind the lower bowl were lined up 4-5 deep. Concession lines were long and the smoking room, a glassed-in enclosure in the middle of the main concourse, was full. Different sights and sounds at every turn. When the game started, the home team fans took over, quiet when the Mariners not named Ichiro (who went 0 for 3) were batting, loud when it was their guys’ turn to step to the plate. The cheering section in right field featured trumpets, drums and three large flags that were waved in unison when the ‘band’ struck up. The fans had individual cheers and songs for each player and they were in as full voice, if not more, in inning nine as they were in the first. “These fans really bring it every night. It is fun to play here,” said Mariners center fielder Mitch Haniger, who played in a three-week Japan Series last November. “I feel very fortunate and lucky to be here and see it. It was pretty amazing. It was awesome,” said first baseman Jay Bruce, who continued his hot hitting with his third home run of the spring. While enjoying the spectacle, Haniger, Bruce and the rest of the team were able to get their work in during a 6-4 win. Haniger, Bruce and Dee Gordon all homered, and Domingo Santana, who leads the Mariners in hits this spring, went 3 for 5. Mike Leake gave up three runs on six hits and two walks and struck out four, and he looked very Mike Leake-like in his five innings, allowing a ton of baserunners but escaping most of the trouble. A changeup that leaked out over the plate left the field of play courtesy of Yomiuri shortstop Hayato Sakamoto, and it was a pitch Leake wouldn’t mind having back. “It was right down the middle,” Leake admitted. “It was a mistake, but he was there ready. It was the pitch I wanted, just not where I wanted it.” Relievers Cory Gearrin, Zac Rosscup and Hunter Strickland, the latter of whom was pitching in a game for the first time since being sidelined with back problems March 4, combined to throw three scoreless innings. “Hunter threw the ball well today,” said manager Scott Servais, who has Strickland tabbed to start the season as the Mariners’ closer/late-inning leverage pitcher. “He certainly had a lot of life on his fastball, his breaking pitch has been outstanding, he’s executing his pitches. It’s great to see. He hasn’t been out there for a while but he looks healthy. It’s great to have him today and heading into the series against Oakland.” Just one more tuneup before two games against Oakland that count. Felix Hernandez takes the hill on Monday night (3:05 a.m. Monday Pacific time) against the Giants. Drayer: Kikuchi ready for unique M’s debut in Japan<doc-sep>","providerName":"Twitter","providerUrl":"https://twitter.com","type":"rich","width":550,"__typename":"ExternalEmbedContent"},"$ROOT_QUERY.getForgeContentBySlug({\"locale\":\"en-us\",\"slug\":\"ichiro-suzuki-celebrated-by-tokyo-fans\",\"type\":\"story\"}).parts.3":{"data":{"type":"id","generated":true,"id":"$ROOT_QUERY.getForgeContentBySlug({\"locale\":\"en-us\",\"slug\":\"ichiro-suzuki-celebrated-by-tokyo-fans\",\"type\":\"story\"}).parts.3.data","typename":"ExternalEmbedContent"},"type":"oembed","__typename":"ExternalEmbed"},"$ROOT_QUERY.getForgeContentBySlug({\"locale\":\"en-us\",\"slug\":\"ichiro-suzuki-celebrated-by-tokyo-fans\",\"type\":\"story\"}).parts.4":{"content":"But this spring hasn’t been kind to the 45-year-old Ichiro at the plate, where he’s now 2-for-28 with three walks and nine strikeouts. “I don’t think Ichiro is under any pressure,\" Servais said. \"He’s certainly earned the right to partake in this series. He’s off to a slow start this spring, but I thought his timing was better today. He just missed a ball he pulled down the right-field line that was foul. I thought his swings were fine and he made a nice catch in the outfield early in the game, so he’ll be in there again tomorrow.” The Mariners have given Ichiro the opportunity to return to his homeland this spring and he’ll be in the starting lineup for Wednesday’s [Opening Day game](https://www.mlb.com/gameday/mariners-vs-athletics/2019/03/20/566083#game_state=preview,game_tab=box,game=566083) against the A’s in one of the corner outfield spots, where he’ll no doubt be even more of a favorite as the Japanese fans won’t have their own team to root on in that Major League contest. While the Mariners aren’t expected to keep Ichiro on their 25-man roster once they have to whittle down from the 28 players allowed for the two-game Opening Series, they’ve given Ichiro and the Japanese fans a unique opportunity and both have embraced the moment. Ichiro played to the crowd prior to the game while running in the outfield and then signing autographs for some of the luckiest. The Japanese TV broadcast followed his every move and the fans – many wearing Ichiro gear – held their breath in unison during every at-bat. “I only threw fastballs to Ichiro,” said Giants starter Nobutaka Imamura. “It was a special moment and very good experience.”","type":"markdown","__typename":"Markdown"},"$ROOT_QUERY.getForgeContentBySlug({\"locale\":\"en-us\",\"slug\":\"ichiro-suzuki-celebrated-by-tokyo-fans\",\"type\":\"story\"}).parts.5.data":{"html":"<doc-sep>
Later this week, the Seattle Mariners and Oakland Athletics will open the 2019 regular season with a pair of games in the Tokyo Dome. The Mariners and A's are in Japan now and have already played two exhibition games against the Yomiuri Giants and Nippon Ham Fighters, respectively. According to Jason Coskrey of the Japan Times, Mariners manager Scott Servais confirmed Ichiro Suzuki will be in the starting lineup in his home country when the regular season begins later this week. From Coskrey: "Ichiro is going to start for us in the first games against the A's," Servais said. "He's playing fine in the outfield, obviously he showed plenty of arm strength tonight on that one throw to third base. He'll start the game and we'll see how it plays out from there. "I'm excited for him. It hasn't been a great spring training for him offensively, but if there's anybody who can turn it on for a few days it's certainly Ichiro." The Mariners re-signed Ichiro to a minor league contract a few weeks ago and GM Jerry Dipoto said at the time he would be on the roster for the Japan Series. Now we know he'll be in the starting lineup. Ichiro is 0 for 6 at the plate through two exhibition games against Yomiuri, though he did unleash this vintage throw Monday: Your browser does not support iframes. Ichiro, 45, hit .205/.255/.205 in 15 games with Seattle last season before transitioning into a unique front office role that saw him travel with the team and take batting practice throughout the season. It was a way to keep him around but out of the lineup. Over the years Ichiro has said he would like to play until he's 50, though that seems unlikely given the age-related deterioration of his skills and baseball's widespread aversion to older players. Ichiro has not addressed his future recently. Going out with two games in his home country would be pretty cool though. The Mariners and Athletics will play regular season games Wednesday (5:35am ET) and Thursday (5:35am ET) this week, then return to the United States to continue the regular season next week. They will be allowed to use 28-man rosters during the two games in Japan.
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in Mumbai are nothing short of magic and taking part in it with great enthusiasm are our favourite Bollywood stars. While the festival lasts for 11 days, one can do a visarjan sooner too. Shilpa Shetty Kundra and Arpita Khan Sharma held their Ganesh visarjan on Friday amid much fanfare. Shilpa, known for her superb dancing skills, was in great mood as she along with her family took part in the visarjan ceremony at her home in Mumbai. Surrounded by drums, swaying and dancing to the beats were Shilpa and husband Raj Kundra. Draped in a lehariya saree, in shocking pink and white with a white floral printed blouse, Shilpa was in a delightful mood. Her son, Viaan Raj Kundra, was there too, dressed in a bright red kurta. In a video shared by the actor, Shilpa can be seen beating a drum while Raj smashes a coconut on the ground. Joining the revelry are Shilpa’s sister Shamita Shetty and mother Sunanda. Videos of Shilpa and Raj doing an aarti at their home too is online. Shilpa Shetty and her family at the Ganesh visarjan. Viaan Kundra too tries to dance. Shilpa dances to the beats of the drums. Also bidding adieu to Ganpati was Salman Khan’s kid sister Arpita. While Arpita could be seen dressed in a pale pink salwar kameez, her husband Aayush Sharma was seen in a dark deep blue kurta pyjama. At Arpita’s visarjan, also seen were actor Sohail Khan with his son. Earlier, Arpita’s Ganesh Chaturthi festivities at her home saw the who’s who of Bollywood queue up for darshan. There was the entire Salman Khan parivaar including Salim Khan, Arbaaz Khan who came in with his rumoured girlfriend Giorgia Andriani, his ex wife Malaika Arora was there too with her mother Joyce and sister Amrita Arora. Katrina Kaif, a great favourite of the Khan household was present too. She came in with her sister Isabelle Kaif. Soha Ali Khan came for a darshan with her daughter Inaaya Naummi Kemmu and husband Kunal Kemmu. Sohail Khan, Arpita Khan, her son Ahil and Sohail’s son at the visarjan. Aayush Sharma carries Ganpati for visarjan. Arpita Khan busy with the visarjan function. Many more stars made it to Mukesh Ambani’s Ganpati party as well. These included Amitabh Bachchan who came in with his daughter Shweta, Shah Rukh Khan and wife Gauri, Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Karisma Kapoor, Karan Johar, Kiara Advani, Yami Gautam among others. (All pictures by Viral Bhayani) Follow @htshowbiz for more ott:10<doc-sep>After celebrating the Ganesh Chaturthi festival and seeking blessings from Bappa, celebs are now bidding their portly deity farewell. We spotted Shilpa Shetty Kundra and family as well as Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansali saying goodbye to Lord Ganesha. Check out the pictures It’s the second day of the ten-day extravaganza Ganesh Chaturthi festival and yesterday people across welcomed Bappa abode with much gusto and fervour. Among others who welcomed Bappa, it was celebs who added glitz and glamour to the festival. We bought several pictures to you of how the celebs enjoyed the festivity with friends and family. And now the time has come to bid Bappa adieu. Among others, we spotted Shilpa Shetty Kundra and Sanjay Leela Bhansali bidding farewell to their portly deity. Donning a reddish pink saree, Shilpa looked beautiful at the Visharjan. Accompanying her was her husband Raj Kundra, son Viaan as well as Sister Shamita Shetty along with others. The Ganpati Visharjan for Kundra-Shetty family was full of fun, dance and music. The actress also shook a leg to the tune of popular Bollywood numbers and dhol tasha. Her son Viaan also seemed to be enjoying the festivity wearing a red traditional kurta-pyjama. Check out the pictures below. We also spotted Sanjay Leela Bhansali bidding farewell to the Ganpati idol. The filmmaker was spotted carrying his Ganesha idol and leading the Ganesh visarjan procession from his home in Mumbai. While Shilpa Shetty celebrated the Ganesh Chaturthi festival with her family, other Bollywood celebrities weren't far behind. Salman Khan welcomed Ganesha at his sister Arpita Khan's house where his family including Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, sister Alvira Agnihotri, Katrina Kaif, Iulia Vantur were in attendance. We also spotted several actors at Ambani’s Antilia to seek blessings from Bappa. Read More<doc-sep>It is that time of the year when Lord Ganesha comes to every Mumbaikars’ home and heart. It is as if the whole of Mumbai adorns a festive look. Joining the revelry and spirit of devotion are our favourite Bollywood stars too. Sanjay Dutt and Shilpa Shetty were among those who brought home ‘the remover of all obstacles’, Vignaharta Ganesha. Shilpa Shetty and husband Raj Kundra leave after buying an idol of Lord Ganesha for installation on the eve of Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai, Wednesday, Sept 12, 2018. (PTI) Shilpa was snapped wearing a pink salwar kameez with a printed dupatta, carrying the statue into her residence, with her husband Raj Kundra. Sanjay too was seen bringing home the lord along with his children Shahraan and Iqra. He was spotted in his car with the statue of Ganesha in his hand. Actor Daisy Shah too welcomed the lord into her home. In all these cases, what was evident was that they all brought home eco-friendly statues. In fact Shilpa’s Instagram story was also about Ganesha festival. She shared a story on Ganesha Chaturthi celebration at her home with Mid Day. In it, she says that at their home even god is on diet. The modaks (laddoo) that gets made in their home is made of coconut, sugar and jaggery. “For beverages, I keep lassi, kesar ka doodh, filter coffee and kulhad chai ready. I have a chaat corner, and also serve idli, kulfi and rabdi jalebi. But I make things with sugar alternatives. When it comes to festive food, it’s best when people enjoy it,” the Mid Day report quotes her as saying. The report goes on to say that for three years now, the Kundras have been bringing home eco-friendly Ganesha statues. Daisy too shared an Instagram picture where Ganesha statue sits, with its face covered till the festival actually begins, at her decorated home pandal. Sharing it, she wrote: “He is here.” On Wednesday, Madhuri Dixit shared a picture of herself paying obeisance to the lord, dressed in festive finery. Sharing it, she wrote: “Modaks, family gatherings, dance, music... Everything about #GaneshChaturthi makes me happy I wish this festive season brings you all countless blessings! #GanpatiBappaMorya.” Sharing another picture of herself, she wrote: “My favourite festival is here! #GanpatiBappaMorya #Modaks.” Madhuri looks stunning in a shimmery yellow and gold sari with a deep green silk blouse. She teams it with heavy gold jewellery. Follow @htshowbiz for more ott:10<doc-sep>Take a look at Shilpa Shetty and Ananya Pandey’s latest style file. (Designed by Rajan Sharma/Indian Express) Take a look at Shilpa Shetty and Ananya Pandey’s latest style file. (Designed by Rajan Sharma/Indian Express) The rendezvous between Ganesh Chaturthi and Bollywood has always been a glamorous one, thanks to the celebrities, who celebrate the festival every year with much pomp and glam and leaves no stones unturned when it comes to levelling up their fashion game. Recently, we spotted Shilpa Shetty Kundra looking lovely in a hot pink and white striped sari from Devnaagri that she teamed with a floral print blouse. For the accessories, stylist Sanjana Batra picked statement earrings with a matching necklace and a nose pin. A neutral palette with well-defined eyes and wavy hairdo rounded off her look well. Shilpa Shetty during Ganesh Chaturthi. (Source: Express Photo by Varinder Chawla) Shilpa Shetty during Ganesh Chaturthi. (Source: Express Photo by Varinder Chawla) ALSO READ| Mukesh Ambani’s Ganesh Chaturthi bash: Kareena, Katrina, Madhuri, and others arrive in style Malaika Arora celebrated the occasion clad in a lime green, embellished sharara from Simar Dugal teamed with a silver bag from Vipul Shah. She further styled her outfit with silver jhumkas and matching rings. A nude make-up palette and marsala lips gave finishing touches to her look. ALSO READ| Ganesh Chaturthi 2018: Here’s how Bollywood stars dressed up for the occasion Huma Qureshi chose an ice blue, embroidered lehenga from Anita Dongre’s ‘Songs of Summer’ collection. Stylist Mohit Rai rounded off her look with silver jewellery from Silver Streak Store while neutral make-up and a neat bun tied with a gajra completed her look. Ananya Pandey, who is soon to debut in Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year 2 made quite a statement in a hot pink sharara from Manish Malhotra. The embroidered outfit was teamed with a beige dupatta. We like the fact the youngster chose to give accessories a complete miss otherwise it might have looked overdone. A dewy sheen with red lips accentuated her look well. Who look do you prefer? Let us know in the comments section below.<doc-sep>
It's Ganesh Chaturthi 2018 tomorrow and Bollywood celebrities are gearing up to welcome Lord Ganesha to their homes. Today, Shilpa Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra welcomed Ganpati Bappa to their abode. It's that time of the year again when Lord Ganesha arrives as a guest to people's home and stays for 10 long days much to the happiness of several families. Tomorrow (September 12, 2018) is Ganesh Chaturthi and many Bollywood celebrities are gearing up to welcome Ganpati Bappa at their homes. The Bollywood celebrities leave no stone unturned in celebrating the festival and they enjoy it to the fullest with pomp and perseverance. A few celebrities bring Lord Ganesha idols a day before so as to kickstart the festival during midnight hours. Today, and her husband Raj Kundra welcomed Lord Ganesha at their home and the paparazzi clicked them while doing so. In the photos, Shilpa was seen wearing a pink salwar kameez and a sheer floral printed complimentary dupatta. While Raj was seen in a white kurta and a pair of black jeans. Shilpa and Raj were seen performing puja and also chanted the famous mantras before taking Ganpati idols to their homes. Check out the photos below and tell us about it in the comments section. Talking about Ganesh Chaturthi, until the festival ends, Ganpati's idol is treated with sweets, fruits and people even perform pujas at regular intervals. Moreover, many common people and even celebrities visit Ganpati pandals around the city to witness the biggest and the smallest idols of Lord Ganesha. The idols are indeed a beautiful sight. Talking about Shilpa, the actor is not only an actor but is also a proud mother to her baby boy Viaan. Credits :Manav Manglani Read More
Alex Ovechkin has been with the Washington Capitals for 13 years after going No. 1 overall in the draft. He's been their captain since 2010. So who else was going to win the Conn Smythe Tropy for the Capitals after their first Stanley Cup victory? Ovechkin capped a postseason that Capitals fans will remember forever by winning the NHL's postseason MVP award. And the moment that he touched the trophy, it solidified a career that needed no validation. Throughout the postseason, Ovechkin led the NHL with 15 goals, the 15th coming in Game 5. He was second on the team in points with 26. And, above all else, he continued to be the lifeblood of the Washington Capitals. In five games against the Golden Knights, Ovechkin put up three goals and two assists. He had a point in every game for Washington. And his presence was felt constantly. Ovechkin's trophy case is filled to the brim. He has three Hart Memorial Trophies for league MVP, seven Maurice Richard Trophies as the leading goal scorer in hockey, and an Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's leading scorer. All of those, however, built up to this: Ovechkin winning the Conn Smythe as the player that led his team through the NHL Playoff gauntlet. It's a career in the making, and much like Ovechkin hoisting the Cup, it's one of the iconic moments that we've seen from the Capitals on Thursday.<doc-sep>The Washington Capitals are the 2017-18 Stanley Cup champions, but that wasn’t the only trophy awarded on the ice for their historic win. There was the little matter of who would receive the Conn Smythe Trophy as the 2017-18 Stanley Cup playoffs MVP. Though a strong case could be, and was, made for Evgeny Kuznetsov, realistically there was no other choice but to award it to Alex Ovechkin. Video Over the course of the playoffs, Alex Ovechkin tallied 15 goals — tying Sidney Crosby’s record from the 2009 postseason — and 12 assists. One of those goals came during their crucial Game Five win. But, more than that, Ovechkin has been a crucial part of pulling this Washington Capitals team together. From his assertion that they were “not going to be suck this year,” to openly celebrating and supporting his teammates throughout their Cup run, it couldn’t have gone to anyone else. Ovechkin becomes just the fourth player in NHL history to recieve three or more Hart trophies (awarded to the regular-season MVP) as well as a Conn Smythe. He’s also the second Russian-born player to ever win it. Evgeni Malkin was the other (2009). Alex Ovechkin is the second Russian-born player in NHL history to earn the Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player to his team in the playoffs. #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/Ct7cB8FLdT — NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) June 8, 2018 Though we all know which trophy Ovechkin was eagerly anticipating lifting over his head. "this is not the stanley cup, take it" pic.twitter.com/5twGNquYNW — Cristiano Simonetta (@CMS_74_) June 8, 2018 Full Coverage of Game Five<doc-sep>“Just like all great goaltenders, you go through some dry spells in your game where you lose your way a little bit and your foundation,” Trotz said. “We had a conversation and he was very respectful. He understood that he wasn't going to start in the playoffs. And he said, `If I get a chance to go back in, I'm gonna be really good for you.’ And he was.”<doc-sep>"It's unbelievable. I'm just happy," Ovechkin said. After defeating the Golden Knights and winning the Stanley Cup on Thursday night, Conn Smythe winner Alex Ovechkin confirmed that he and his wife, Nastya, are expecting their first child. During a postgame interview with Sportsnet, Ovechkin was asked, "Okay, you’re married now, you and Nastya are expecting your first child, you’ve got the Stanley Cup: could life be any better than it is tonight?" Ovechkin did not reference his child specifically, but answered about how happy he felt. "It's unbelievable. I'm just happy," Ovechkin said. Ovechkin also went on to share a message with Capitals fans over the historic win. "Fans, we did it," he said. "Get some beers. Start celebrating. We're the Stanley Cup champions." The Capitals won their first Stanley Cup in franchise history after defeating the Golden Knights 4-3 in Game 5 on Thursday night.<doc-sep>
LAS VEGAS — Alex Ovechkin’s NHL legacy swelled considerably Thursday when he added a Stanley Cup championship and the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP. As the greatest goal scorer of this generation, Ovechkin was already destined to be recognized as one of the best players in NHL history. But before Thursday, he was also on the list of top players never to win the Stanley Cup. Ovechkin led the Capitals with 15 playoff goals, including one in the clinching game Thursday. "Man, did Ovi play well and he produced," Washington defenseman Matt Niskanen said. "He ran people over. He blocked shots. He led the charge. He was really consistent and he scored big goals at big moments." His victory against teammate Evgeny Kuznetsov in the Conn Smythe vote is presumed to have been close because Kuznetsov was the Capitals’ offensive catalyst, leading all NHL playoff scorers with 32 points in 24 games. The Conn Smythe winner is selected by a panel of members from the Professional Hockey Writers Association. D.C. sports curse over:Capitals capture first Stanley Cup in Game 5 win Stanley Cup mania:Pandemonium in Washington as Capitals win first title Terrible timing:Clock freezes in final minutes of Stanley Cup Final Kuznetsov’s 1.35 points-per-game average was Mario Lemieux-like by today’s lower- scoring standards. But Ovechkin was both a dominant offensive player (15 goals, 26 points) and inspirational leader. He is the first Russian to captain his team to a Stanley Cup championship. Ovechkin played a tough, physical style and the Capitals seemed to feed off his focus and passion. Previously, Ovechkin had won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, three Hart trophies as regular-season MVP, the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy seven times as goal scoring champion and the Art Ross trophy as scoring champion once. He also won the Ted Lindsay Trophy, the players’ MVP award, three times.
By Tulay Karadeniz and Roberta Rampton ANKARA/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia is preparing to acknowledge the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in a botched interrogation, CNN and the New York Times said on Monday, after U.S. President Donald Trump speculated "rogue killers" may be responsible. Trump dispatched Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to meet King Salman over the case that has strained the Americans' relationship with the Saudis, carefully cultivated by the U.S. president. Khashoggi, a U.S. resident, Washington Post columnist and leading critic of the powerful Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, vanished after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul two weeks ago to get marriage documents. Turkish officials say they believe he was murdered there and his body removed. Citing two unidentified sources, CNN reported on Monday that Saudi Arabia is preparing a report that would acknowledge Khashoggi was killed as the result of an interrogation that went wrong. The Saudi government could not be reached immediately for comment on the CNN report. “I heard that report, but nobody knows if it’s an official report,” Trump told reporters, without elaborating. The New York Times, citing a person familiar with the Saudi plans, reported the crown prince had approved an interrogation or rendition of Khashoggi back to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government, it said, would shield the prince by blaming an intelligence official for the bungled operation. The case has provoked an international outcry against Saudi Arabia, the world's top oil exporter, with more media and business executives pulling out of a planned investment conference there this month. While organizers said Monday the conference will go on, the Saudis canceled an annual diplomatic reception in Washington set for later this week. Many members of the U.S. Congress, which has long had a testy relationship with Saudi Arabia, have issued strong criticism of the kingdom over the case. Turkish authorities have an audio recording indicating that Khashoggi was killed in the consulate, a Turkish official and a security source told Reuters, and have shared evidence with countries including Saudi Arabia and the United States. They provided no further details. Saudi Arabia has strongly denied killing Khashoggi and has denounced such assertions as "lies," saying he left the building shortly after entering. "The king firmly denied any knowledge of it," Trump told reporters after speaking with King Salman. "He didn't really know, maybe - I don't want to get into his mind but it sounded to me - maybe these could have been rogue killers. Who knows?" The U.S. president gave no evidence to support the theory. Democratic lawmakers criticized Trump for using the term "rogue killers". "Been hearing the ridiculous ‘rogue killers’ theory was where the Saudis would go with this," Democratic U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said on Twitter. "Absolutely extraordinary they were able to enlist the President of the United States as their PR agent to float it." KING ORDERS INVESTIGATION Trump called Pompeo on Sunday night and asked him to have face-to-face meetings with the Saudi leaders, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said. Trump said Pompeo may go to Turkey after Saudi Arabia. Turkish police investigators entered the Istanbul consulate late on Monday. A Turkish diplomatic source had earlier said a joint Turkish-Saudi team would search the building - the last place Khashoggi was seen before he vanished on Oct. 2. "It has been 13 days since the event, so surely proving some of the evidence might be difficult" the Turkish official said. A Saudi official, not authorized to speak publicly, told Reuters that the king had ordered an internal investigation based on information from the joint team in Istanbul. Trump has threatened "severe punishment" if it turns out Khashoggi was killed in the consulate, although he has ruled out cancelling arms deals worth tens of billions of dollars with Saudi Arabia. European allies have urged "a credible investigation" and accountability for those responsible. Khashoggi, a familiar face on Arab talk shows, moved to the United States last year fearing retribution for his criticism of Prince Mohammed, who has cracked down on dissent with arrests. A pro-government Turkish daily published preliminary evidence last week from investigators who it said had identified a 15-member Saudi intelligence team that arrived in Istanbul on diplomatic passports hours before Khashoggi disappeared. The Saudi consulate referred Reuters to authorities in Riyadh, who did not respond to questions about the 15 Saudis. Saudi Arabia has responded to Western statements by saying it would retaliate against any pressure or economic sanctions "with greater action," and Arab allies rallied to support it. The Saudi riyal fell to its lowest in two years and its international bond prices slipped over fears that foreign investment could shrink amid international pressure. The Saudi stock market had tumbled 7.2 percent over the previous two trading days but rebounded 2 percent on Monday. Concern over Khashoggi's disappearance has prompted media organizations and a growing number of guests to pull out of a "Davos in the Desert" investment conference set for Oct. 23-25, which has become the biggest show for investors to promote Prince Mohammed's reform vision. (Additional reporting by Yara Bayoumy, Lesley Wroughton, Doina Chiacu in Washington, Rob Cox of Breakingviews, Steve Holland in Macon, Georgia; William James in London, and Dominic Evans in Istanbul; Writing by Stephen Kalin and Doina Chiacu; Editing by Mary Milliken, Alistair Bell and Howard Goller)<doc-sep>President Donald Trump said Monday Saudi Arabia's King Salman denied knowing what may have happened to missing Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump said on Twitter he spoke to the king Monday morning and that he is "immediately" sending Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to meet with him. Executives including JPMorgan Chase & Co.'s JPM, -0.01% Jamie Dimon have dropped out of an upcoming investment conference in Saudi Arabia following Khashoggi's disappearance.<doc-sep>President Trump said Monday he is “immediately” sending Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Saudi Arabia to meet with King Salman to discuss the disappearance of Saudi activist Jamal Khashoggi. “Just spoke to the King of Saudi Arabia who denies any knowledge of whatever may have happened ‘to our Saudi Arabian citizen.’ He said that they are working closely with Turkey to find answer. I am immediately sending our Secretary of State to meet with King!” Trump tweeted Monday morning. Speaking to reporters before leaving Washington to tour hurricane damage in Florida, Trump vowed, "We are going to leave nothing uncovered." But he also noted the Saudi king strongly denied knowledge, while suggesting the possibility of outside involvement. "Maybe these could have been rogue killers -- who knows," Trump said, " ... but his was a flat denial." The State Department issued a brief statement saying Pompeo will travel Monday to Riyadh at Trump's request. Khashoggi, a contributor to The Washington Post, was last seen nearly two weeks ago. Turkish officials say they believe Khashoggi was killed inside his country’s consulate in Istanbul after he visited to obtain a document required to marry his Turkish fiancée. Saudia Arabia has denied the allegations and dismissed them as “baseless.” Trump was asked in an interview on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” Sunday whether he thought the Saudis murdered Khashoggi and did not rule out the possibility. “Nobody knows yet, but we’ll probably be able to find out. It’s being investigated. It’s being looked at very, very strongly. And we would be very upset and angry if that were the case,” Trump explained. “As of this moment, they deny it. And deny it vehemently. Could it be them? Yes.” Trump added: “There’s a lot at stake. And maybe especially so because this man was a reporter. There’s something—you’ll be surprised to hear me say that. There’s something really terrible and disgusting about that, if that were the case.” Trump said the U.S. would “get to the bottom of it” and noted there would be “severe punishment” for the Saudis if evidence proved they were involved in the murder of Khashoggi. Turkish media have published images from Oct. 2 of an alleged 15-member Saudi “assassination squad” and video of suspicious movements at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul after Khashoggi’s disappearance. Several Republicans and Democrats on the Foreign Relations Committee sent a letter to Trump requesting he “make a determination on the imposition of sanctions … with respect to any foreign person responsible for such a violation related to Mr. Khashoggi.” The letter triggered an investigation under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. That requires the administration to sanction those found responsible of a gross violation of human rights against someone exercising freedom of expression. The Saudis pushed back, warning that the Kingdom would “respond with greater action” should any sanctions or political decisions be made based on the “false accusations.” “The Kingdom affirms its total rejection of any threats and attempts to undermine it, whether by waving economic sanctions, using political pressure, or repeating false accusations,” the country said in a statement released by the Saudi Press Agency. “The Kingdom also affirms that if it receives any action, it will respond with greater action, [and] that the Kingdom’s economy has an influential and vital role in the global economy.” The State Department called the bipartisan effort premature. “We don’t know the facts of this case just yet. So I think they’re getting ahead of themselves at this point,” said Heather Nauert, the State Department’s spokesperson. “We will watch the situation very carefully, very closely, wait for the facts to come out, and then we’ll get there.” Fox News’ Adam Shaw and Rich Edson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.<doc-sep>President Trump Donald TrumpTrump lashes out after grand jury seated for New York criminal probe Schumer tees up vote on Jan. 6 commission bill Senators struggle to save Jan. 6 commission MORE said Monday he's sending Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Mike PompeoThe Memo: Media face hard questions on Trump, Wuhan lab Trump on Wuhan lab: Now everyone agrees 'I was right' With denuclearization stalled, Biden should focus on human rights reform in North Korea MORE to meet with King Salman of Saudi Arabia after the king denied knowing about the disappearance of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. "Just spoke to the King of Saudi Arabia who denies any knowledge of whatever may have happened 'to our Saudi Arabian citizen,' " Trump wrote in a tweet, referring to Khashoggi without using his name. "He said that they are working closely with Turkey to find answer. I am immediately sending our Secretary of State to meet with King!" Trump added. Just spoke to the King of Saudi Arabia who denies any knowledge of whatever may have happened “to our Saudi Arabian citizen.” He said that they are working closely with Turkey to find answer. I am immediately sending our Secretary of State to meet with King! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 15, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT Trump told reporters outside the White House a short time later that Pompeo was departing "within an hour or so," and could visit Turkey as part of his trip as well. Trump's phone call with King Salman, 82, comes three days after the president said he intended to speak with the king "very soon" after Khashoggi's disappearance. Though Trump spoke with the king, much of the focus in Khashoggi's disappearance has been on Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the heir apparent to the throne who holds significant power in the country. Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and Saudi dissident, first went missing two weeks ago. He was last seen entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul and was not seen leaving. Turkish officials have said they have audio and video that proves Khashoggi was killed at the consulate. Senators on Sunday indicated that it's looking increasingly likely that Khashoggi was murdered there. Saudi Arabian officials have said they do not know what happened to Khashoggi. Turkey and Saudi Arabia formed a joint working group to investigate the matter. CNN reported on Monday that Saudi Arabia has granted investigators permission to search the consulate in Istanbul. Trump warned in a "60 Minutes" interview broadcast Sunday that Saudi Arabia would face "severe punishment" if it's proven the country was involved in Khashoggi's disappearance, but was reluctant to alter arms deals between the U.S. and the Saudis. Khashoggi is an American resident living in self-imposed exile from Saudi Arabia, as he has been a frequent critic of the country's leadership. On Monday and in Oval Office remarks last week, Trump has made a point to note that Khashoggi is not an American citizen. While Trump has insisted the U.S. has yet to determine what happened to Khashoggi, lawmakers have been united in their outrage over his disappearance and vowed Saudi Arabia would face consequences in the matter. Senators invoked sanctions legislation last week to compel Trump to conduct an investigation into the issue. Sens. Bob Corker Robert (Bob) Phillips CorkerCheney set to be face of anti-Trump GOP How leaving Afghanistan cancels our post-9/11 use of force The unflappable Liz Cheney: Why Trump Republicans have struggled to crush her MORE (R-Tenn.), Marco Rubio Marco Antonio RubioFlorida state senator announces bid for Demings's House seat GOP senators introduce resolution condemning antisemitic violence amid 'horrific' spike in attacks The Hill's Morning Report - Presented by Uber - One year later — has George Floyd's killing changed the world? MORE (R-Fla.) and Jeff Flake Jeffrey (Jeff) Lane FlakeWhy Republican politicians are sticking with Trump The Hill's 12:30 Report - Presented by Facebook - Republican reactions to Cheney's removal Flake: No greater offense than honesty in today's Republican Party MORE (R-Ariz.) have all said in recent days that Saudi officials' denials don't hold up under scrutiny, particularly their claim that the cameras at the consulate did not record video around the time Khashoggi was last seen. "So, the only two things that could have happened is, he's alive and somehow still in there, or he's dead and the Saudis are the ones who did it," Rubio said. "There's no other explanation for it, because if there was video of him leaving, they would have shown it by now." "I believe the Trump administration will do something," Rubio added. "The president has said that. But, if he doesn't, Congress will. That, I can tell you with 100 percent certainty." Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin Steven MnuchinDemocrats justified in filibustering GOP, says Schumer Yellen provides signature for paper currency Biden's name will not appear on stimulus checks, White House says MORE is scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia next week for an economic summit. The White House has said Mnuchin is monitoring developments in Khashoggi's disappearance but still plans to attend.<doc-sep>
President Donald Trump said Monday morning that he would send Secretary of State Mike Pompeo "immediately" to meet with the Saudi king as the international outcry continued to grow over missing journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump tweet The president also said King Salman denied knowledge of anything regarding the writer's fate. "His denial to me could not have been stronger," Trump told reporters later Monday morning. The president also suggested that "rogue killers" might have murdered Khashoggi, a Saudi national and critic of the royal family who was living in the U.S. under self-imposed exile. Trump said Pompeo would be departing for the kingdom on Monday morning. The State Department confirmed the top diplomat would be leaving Monday. "At the request of President Trump, Secretary of State Pompeo will travel to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia today. The President has called for a prompt and open investigation into the disappearance of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi," the department said in a statement. The White House didn't immediately respond to CNBC's request for further comment on the president's tweet. In a readout of the king's call with Trump, the Saudi government said the president "praised the joint Saudi-Turkish cooperation in the investigation into the disappearance of Jamal bin Ahmed Khashoggi and the keenness of the Kingdom's leadership to clarify all relevant facts." Saudi Arabia is the world's biggest oil exporter, and a standoff with the royal family could create turbulence for the global economy, particularly in crude markets. The Trump administration is relying on Saudi Arabia to pump more oil to compensate for the loss of Iranian supplies due to U.S. sanctions on Iran, OPEC's third largest crude producer. The sanctions are poised to remove about 1 million barrels a day from the market, or roughly 1 percent of global oil demand. Oil prices initially rose on Monday after Saudi Arabia vowed on Sunday to retaliate against any sanctions or other measures taken against the kingdom. The statement raises concerns that Saudi Arabia could respond to international punishment by allowing oil prices to drift higher. Crude futures turned negative following Trump's tweet and his comment regarding "rogue killers." Trump's tweet came after King Salman ordered an investigation into Khashoggi's disappearance. The journalist, a critic of the Saudi royal family who wrote columns for The Washington Post, was last seen Oct. 2, when he entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. While Salman is the official head of state, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has exerted extraordinary influence over the country's defense, intelligence and economic policy and strategy. The Turkish government believes Khashoggi was murdered. Turkey has reportedly informed the U.S. that it has video and audio evidence showing the journalist was killed inside the consulate. Saudi Arabia denies wrongdoing, a point Trump stressed in his Monday morning tweet. "Just spoke to the King of Saudi Arabia who denies any knowledge of whatever may have happened 'to our Saudi Arabian citizen,'" Trump wrote, noting again that Khashoggi is not an American.
Sales usually rise in Southern California between November and December, with an average increase of around 12 percent, so this was clearly a huge aberration. From November to December, sales of new and existing houses and condominiums in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, San Bernardino and Orange counties dropped 8.2 percent. Home sales in the region fell 20.3 percent year over year in December, according to CoreLogic. That is the lowest December sales pace since 2007. "Last month's sharp drop in home sales stands out in several ways," said Andrew LePage, a CoreLogic analyst, noting that it was the slowest pace in 11 years and the largest decline for any month in more than eight years. "This drop in activity reflects a variety of factors. Mortgage rates hit a 2018 high in November, affecting December closings, and stock-market volatility created an additional headwind in high-end markets. Meanwhile, some would-be buyers remain priced out or unwilling to buy amid concerns that prices have overshot a sustainable level." The median price paid for all Southern California homes sold in December was $515,000, up 1.1 percent year over year. When adjusted for inflation, the December 2018 median was still 13.2 percent below its peak in July 2007. "The roughly 1 percent annual increase in Southern California's median sale price last month marked the lowest such gain in the uninterrupted string of year-over-year increases each month that began in April 2012," LePage said. "The median's annual increases have declined over the past year as home sales slowed and inventory rose. The median's tiny annual gain last month also reflects a shift in market mix, where higher-end sales represented a slightly lower share of all activity compared with December 2017." Sales of newly built homes fared particularly badly, down more than 50 percent from their average over the last 30 years. Much of that is because builders are still building far fewer homes since the housing crash, and part is because prices for newly built homes continue to soar. "Half of America can only afford a $230,000 mortgage, and the builders in good locations just can't get down to anywhere near that," said John Burns, CEO of California-based John Burns Real Estate Consulting. "Eleven of the top 19 builders, their average sales price is above 400 grand." WATCH: Affordability affecting the housing market<doc-sep>The housing market’s chill grew colder in December, as sales plunged across Southern California and home prices barely rose. The number of closed deals fell 20.3% compared with a year earlier, hitting the lowest level for a December since the start of the Great Recession and marking the sharpest percentage drop since 2010, according to a report out Wednesday from CoreLogic. The six-county region’s median price, meanwhile, inched up 1.1% from a year earlier, to $515,000. The 12-month price increase is the smallest since prices started their steady upward climb in April 2012, after declining slightly a month earlier. And December’s median price is now $22,000 below June’s all-time high of $537,000. Advertisement Although the median — the point at which half the homes sold for more and half for less — can fluctuate month to month, Wednesday’s report is the latest indication of a substantial market shift as buyers balk at the high cost of housing. “The affordability issue,” said Leslie Appleton-Young, chief economist for the California Assn. of Realtors, “is finally taking its toll.” The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller index, for example, provides a delayed look at home prices but is widely considered to be the gold standard of measurements. On Tuesday, data for November were released, showing prices in Los Angeles and Orange counties rose 4.4% in November — also the lowest rise since 2012. The slowdown has multiple causes, agents and economists say. Some potential buyers can simply no longer afford a home after years of steady price increases. Others can still swing a mortgage at today’s prices but worry about buying at the top. As sales decline, inventory is swelling, further limiting the ability of sellers to command top dollar. Last month in L.A. County, the number of homes for sale rose 22% from a year earlier, while in Orange County, listings surged 30%, according to online brokerage Redfin. Despite the cooling market, economists generally don’t expect a housing market crash coupled with plunging prices, pointing to strong job growth and a rate of home building that’s below historical levels. Some experts, however, do think values could dip under current economic conditions, arguing home prices have simply outpaced incomes for too long. Richard Green, director of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, has said prices could fall 5% to 10% over the next two years. The Realtors group predicts prices across the state will be essentially flat this year, falling 0.2% from 2018. “The market is going to settle out,” Appleton-Young said. “You are seeing a big pause.” Advertisement The pause can be seen throughout the region. Sales fell in all six Southern California counties last month compared with a year earlier, ranging from a 13.5% drop in Ventura County to a 26% decline in Orange County. Still, there was enough demand to send prices a bit higher in all counties. The median rose 2% to $581,500 in Los Angeles County; 1.6% to $708,500 in Orange County; 4.1% to $380,000 in Riverside County; 2.1% to $329,750 in San Bernardino County; 1.9% to $550,000 in San Diego County; and 2.1% to $575,000 in Ventura County. Many first-time buyers would be thrilled to see declines, not just slowing price appreciation. But it’s unclear if that will happen. Advertisement CoreLogic analyst Andrew LePage said one reason for the weak December median-price gains was a smaller share of high-end deals, which may indicate a volatile stock market spooked wealthy investors. A clearer picture should emerge in the traditional spring buying season. And some agents say demand is already seeing a bit of a boost after a recent pullback in mortgage rates. December’s report, with its large sales decline and meager price appreciation, reflects sales that closed escrow in December. That means many buyers signed contracts in October and November, when rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage were at recent highs. Since the peak, rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage have fallen by 0.49 percentage point to an average 4.45% last week, according to Freddie Mac. Advertisement Stuart Gabriel, director of the Ziman Center for Real Estate at UCLA, said the Federal Reserve’s announcement Wednesday that it would be “patient” in enacting additional rate increases may help prevent mortgage rates from drifting higher. But at the same time, there are concerns over global growth and the cost of housing is already too high for many. “Where do we go from here?” Gabriel said. “The [spring] selling season will be a very important indication.” Tregg Rustad, a Rodeo Realty agent, said buyers are still willing to pull the trigger if a home isn’t significantly overpriced, at least by Los Angeles standards. For example, in mid-January he listed a five-bedroom house in Mid-City for $1.76 million and said it’s now in escrow for about 3% above that amount. A year ago, he and the seller may have set the list price even higher, knowing there was a good shot home seekers would bite. Advertisement “Buyers are going to be careful” this year, he said. “They are tired of paying for more than a house is worth.” Times staff writer Jim Puzzanghera contributed to this report. [email protected] Twitter: @khouriandrew<doc-sep>Bloomberg (Bloomberg) -- Hedge funds often measure their investments in minutes, not decades; but for Anchorage Capital Group, its long-held stake in Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. is proving that patience can also be profitable.The New York-based money manager stands to make roughly $2 billion on its investment in the film and TV producer, one that began almost 11 years ago with MGM in bankruptcy court. Amazon.com Inc. agreed to buy the company for $8.45 billion Wednesday, a price that includes just under $2 billion in debt.The deal is in many ways a vindication for Kevin Ulrich, the former Goldman Sachs Group Inc. trader who co-founded Anchorage in 2003 and was part of a group of distressed debt investors that took control of MGM as it went through the restructuring process. In recent years the stake looked to be an albatross for the fund, one that came with significant drama in its own right.Ulrich brought in and later fired a high-profile chief executive officer, resisted efforts by activist investor Carl Icahn to take control, and held out for a bigger payday after years of considering various exit strategies. By selling now, as demand for media content from entertainment and technology companies alike is booming, he’s proving his long-held faith in the investment was justified.“There was a lot of maneuvering, a lot of financial engineering,” said Steven Azarbad, chief investment officer at New York’s Maglan Capital, an MGM investor who sold his shares four years ago. “But they’ve done great.”A representative for Anchorage declined to comment.When Ulrich first invested in MGM, he was new to Hollywood. He helped pick Gary Barber, a South African-born producer of films such as “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” as chief executive officer of the storied but debt-laden studio. Barber brought to the table a shrewd business sense, and connections into a world Ulrich long admired from afar.Barber shepherded MGM’s development of “The Hobbit” franchise, a co-production with Warner Bros., that became a global smash hit. He helmed the release of the James Bond film, “Skyfall,” which generated over $1 billion at the box office, and he revived the studio’s work in television. Barber also brokered a deal to bring on TV super producer Mark Burnett, which gave MGM access to reality show hits like “Survivor” and “The Apprentice,” but would ultimately become personally troublesome.In 2012 the company bought back Icahn’s stock for $590 million. It also filed paperwork for a possible public offering of shares, and considered other options, such as a sale.As Barber boosted MGM’s film and TV pipeline, Ulrich was increasingly entranced by the allure of Hollywood. He became a regular at movie premieres in Los Angeles and New York, and frequented industry parties in the Hamptons and elsewhere. He became active in creative decisions after becoming chair of MGM’s board -- somewhat unusual for a non-executive lacking Hollywood experience -- even getting involved with business granularities like casting.Growing RiftBut over the following years a rift began to open up between Barber and Ulrich. When it was time to renew Barber’s contract in 2017, Ulrich conducted an extensive search for a new CEO. When it ended, he ultimately chose to sign Barber to a new five-year deal. Yet around the same time, the pair split on whether to sell the company, with Ulrich wanting to hang on to the studio and Barber saying it was time to find a buyer.The company would hold buyout talks with Apple Inc. as well as Chinese investors that would ultimately prove fruitless.Only months after renewing Barber’s deal, Ulrich fired him. The shock departure meant the company had to pay Barber for five years of salary and buy out his equity, a package totaling $260 million. In the three years since Barber left, Ulrich hasn’t replaced him, instead operating an “office of the chief executive officer,” comprised of various people that each have their personal vision for MGM.Barber declined to comment via his spokesperson.Bounce BackAfter the initial period of success following the restructuring, the gains became harder to come by, as they did in Anchorage’s overall credit-focused business. Two senior managers left the firm in January 2020, and another in November. Anchorage’s flagship strategy, with about $8.5 billion under management, returned just 0.6% in 2018, 1.5% in 2019 and 4.4% in 2020, according to people familiar with the matter.In December, MGM hired investment bankers for a potential sale.MGM only released one film in theaters in 2020. Its biggest potential hit, the latest Bond film, “No Time to Die,” was pushed from last year to this October as a result of the pandemic.Yet the value of MGM’s library rose as everyone from media companies to technology giants have sought to build video streaming platforms that can compete with industry leader Netflix Inc. Earnings jumped 48% last year, to about $307 million, even as sales declined.Anchorage holds a roughly 30% stake in MGM, worth about $2.5 billion in the sale, said people with knowledge of the matter. Anchorage invested around $500 million in the company more than a decade ago. Including the MGM stake, Anchorage’s flagship fund is up 18% this year, the people added. The fund has gained about 8% in 2021 not counting the studio.More stories like this are available on bloomberg.comSubscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source.©2021 Bloomberg L.P.<doc-sep>The numbers: Pending-home sales slid 2.2% in December to a reading of 99, and were 9.8% lower compared to a year ago, marking the 12th straight month of annual declines, the National Association of Realtors said Wednesday. That’s the lowest reading since April 2014. What happened: NAR’s index, which tracks home contract signings, missed the Econoday consensus for a 0.3% monthly increase. Given all the headwinds facing the housing market at the end of last year, that forecast may have been too rosy. In December, the pending home sales index for the Northeast was up 2%. The index for the West were also up moderately, by 1.7%. But pending sales plummeted in the South by 5%, and in the Midwest by 0.6%. See also: Outside-the-box alternatives for home buyers in a tough housing market Big picture: The Realtor group named a litany of culprits for the steep decline in December: the stock market SPX, +0.19% correction, high home prices and mortgage rates, lean inventory, and even the government shutdown. Contract signing usually precede closing by about 45 days, so the pending home sales index is a leading indicator for upcoming existing-home sales reports. Market reaction: The Dow Jones Industrial Average DJIA, +0.03% was little changed after the NAR release. The Dow has climbed over 5% this month. Read:Home price growth skids to a 4-year low, Case-Shiller says<doc-sep>
House hunters signed 2.2 percent fewer contracts to buy existing homes in December, according to the National Association of Realtors. These so-called pending sales are a future indicator of closings in one to two months. The Realtors' pending home sales index was also down a dramatic 9.8 percent compared with December 2017. This marks 12 straight months of annual declines. It is also the lowest December sales reading since 2013. Some observers expected sales to get a boost in December from a drop in interest rates. Mortgage rates moved markedly lower to end 2018, with the average rate on the popular 30-year fixed loan falling from just over 5 percent in mid-November all the way to 4.61 percent by Dec. 31, according to Mortgage News Daily. Buyers had been struggling with high prices and higher rates for most of last year, and home sales declined as a result. "The stock market correction hurt consumer confidence, record high home prices cut into affordability and mortgage rates were higher in October and November for consumers signing contracts in December," said the Realtors' chief economist, Lawrence Yun, in a release, suggesting that perhaps buyers were not aware of the lower rates. The partial government shutdown, which concluded last week after a record-long 35 days, would not have figured much into these numbers, as it didn't begin until toward the end of December. "Seventy-five percent of Realtors reported that they haven't yet felt the impact of the government closure. However, if another government shutdown takes place, it will lead to fewer homes sold," Yun added. President Donald Trump and lawmakers agreed to reopen the government until Feb. 15, with the intention of reaching a longer-term funding deal before that deadline. Regionally, pending home sales in the Northeast rose 2.0 percent month to month, and were 2.5 percent below a year ago. In the Midwest, sales fell 0.6 percent monthly and 7.2 percent annually. Sales in the South fell 5 percent monthly and 13.5 percent annually, and in the West sales increased 1.7 percent monthly but were 10.8 percent lower compared with December 2017. Closed sales of existing homes, which represent contracts signed in October and November, were also sharply lower in December, as the median home price hit a new high. The housing market has been plagued by a very tight supply of entry-level homes as well as very low levels of new construction. While the supply of homes for sale is increasing slightly, the growth is mostly at the move-up and luxury levels.
NEW DELHI: All eyes will be on the Supreme Court on Wednesday when a five-judge constitution bench led by CJI Dipak Misra delivers the judgment on constitutional validity of Aadhaar, challenged by 31 petitions on grounds that it violated the right to privacy of citizens.The SC order will have implications for linking Aadhaar to government welfare and financial inclusion schemes, bank accounts and PAN cards, UID authentication by private entities and also address concerns over exclusion, privacy and security as regards storage and use of biometric data of 122 crore individuals currently enrolled by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).A bench of CJI Misra and Justices A K Sikri, A M Khanwilkar, D Y Chandrachud and Ashok Bhushan will determine if use of Aadhaar violates right to privacy and should be struck down. On an alternative, there is a possibility the SC could uphold validity of Aadhaar and yet call for robust data protection regime to safeguard personal data linked to Aadhaar and rule out a big brother regime.On August 24 last year, while delivering its ruling giving right to privacy the status of a fundamental right, the SC had said the Centre may have justifiable reasons, apart from security concerns, for collection and storage of data. If on one hand, the SC rejected the Centre's argument that privacy could not be treated as a fundamental right to scuttle right to food of millions through Aadhaar-linked welfare schemes, it conceded the need for collection of personal data to ensure essential items reached needy.Justice Chandrachud, writing the main judgment in the right to privacy issue, had said, “In a social welfare state, the government embarks upon programmes which provide benefits to impoverished and marginalised sections of society. There is a vital state interest in ensuring that scarce public resources are not dissipated by diversion of resources to persons who do not qualify as recipients.”But the fate of Aadhaar remains in the realm of speculation till the five-judge bench delivers its verdict on Wednesday. The government has argued that Aadhaar linkage will curb tax evasion and crime as use of multiple PAN cards and fictitious bank accounts will be checked by UID’s near-foolproof identity authentication.Wednesday will be a mega day in the Supreme Court as it would also deliver a verdict on whether to refer to a seven-judge bench the request for reconsideration of the 2006 judgment in the Nagraj case, in which the apex court had inserted three caveats while upholding validity of quota in promotion for Scheduled Castes and Tribes government employees.The Supreme Court will also give its decision on PILs seeking live streaming of court proceedings. During the hearing, the court had agreed with attorney general K K Venugopal to start delayed live streaming on an experimental basis in the Chief Justice of India’s courtroom pertaining to important constitutional issues.The court will also give its verdict on another PIL filed by NGO ‘Lok Prahari’ demanding that once an MP, MLA or MLC was convicted and sentenced to two or more years of jail and so disqualified, no court should stay conviction in the interim stage of appeal to permit a convicted politician to resume membership of the House.The Supreme Court will also pronounce on a petition by Congress leader Ahmed Patel, who has sought dismissal of a petition in Gujarat high court challenging his election to Rajya Sabha in August last year.<doc-sep>The Supreme Court struck down the national security exception in the Aadhaar Act, the scheme's enabling law, as well as Section 57 of the Act, which permits private entities to avail Aadhaar data. The Supreme Court on Wednesday said Aadhaar, the ambitious public scheme that uses biometric data to generate unique identification numbers for citizens, is constitutionally valid. Delivering the majority opinion of the five-judge Constitution bench, Chief Justice Dipak Misra, Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri and Justice AM Khanwilkar said there was a "sufficient defence mechanism" for authentication in the scheme. Justice DY Chandrachud dissented, and Justice Ashok Bhushan concurred with the majority judgment. Aadhaar means unique, and it's better to be unique than being the best, the court said. It struck down the national security exception in the Aadhaar Act, the scheme's enabling law, as well as Section 57 of the Act, which permits private entities to avail Aadhaar data. We welcome the Supreme Court's decision to strike down Section 57 of the Aadhaar Act. Private entities are no longer allowed to use Aadhaar for verification purposes. #AadhaarVerdict Congress (@INCIndia) September 26, 2018 The court said it wasn't mandatory to link Aadhaar to bank accounts or mobile numbers, but that that the identification was compulsory for the filing of I-T returns and for the allotment of Permanent Account Numbers (PAN). It said no child can be denied benefits of any schemes if he or she can't produce an Aadhaar number. The CBSE, the NEET, and the UGC can't make Aadhaar mandatory, and the scheme isn't compulsory for school admissions, the court said. The court also directed the government not to to give illegal immigrants Aadhaar. THE VERDICT IN A NUTSHELL The Supreme Court said there was nothing in the Aadhaar Act that violates a person's right to privacy, while striking down a couple of its provisions. Three judges delivered the majority judgment. The court said it isn't mandatory to link Aadhaar to bank accounts or mobile numbers, and upheld the passing of the Aadhaar Bill as a Money Bill by the Lok Sabha. Justice Chandrachud (who wasn't one of the judges who delivered the majority opinion), said the collection of data may lead to the individual profiling of citizens. It's impossible to live in India without Aadhaar, and it's violative of Article 14, he said. The Constitution bench had reserved its verdict on May 10. It heard petitions challenging Aadhaar's constitutional validity on grounds that it violated the fundamental right to privacy. Today's verdict concludes a 38-day hearing held over four months, the second-longest oral hearing in history, and concerns a programme that already covers more than 122 crore Indians. A number of services, such as government welfare schemes, require Aadhaar authentification. The Aadhaar project has received praise on one hand -- Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, for example, has said it "leads to good governance and savings" -- but likened to a mass surveillance system on the other. Data protection and security have been hot topics in recent months. Women standing in a queue to get themselves enrolled for the Unique Identification database system in Rajasthan's Merta district, on February 22, 2013. (Photo: Reuters) CONTROVERSIAL SCHEME Aadhaar has a long history that can traced back to the Kargil War (read more here). In recent years, it has faced multiple challenges in the Supreme Court, including one based on the argument that privacy is a fundamental right. Last year, a nine-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court held that privacy was a fundamental right. Justice DY Chandrachud then said the state "may have justifiable reasons for the collection and storage of data" -- reasons apart from national security -- and that there was "a vital state interest in ensuring that scarce public resources are not dissipated by the diversion of resources to persons who do not qualify as recipients." At the same time, he said, the data collected "has to be utilised for legitimate purposes of the state and ought not to be utilised unauthorisedly for extraneous purposes." Inputs from agencies WATCH | Aadhaar is constitutionally valid, Supreme Court rules in landmark decision<doc-sep>Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor<doc-sep>
SC upholds validity of Aadhaar scheme: Aadhaar's outreach explained Watch: Aadhaar's outreach explained SC upholds validity of Aadhaar; Aadhaar empowers marginalised section of society NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday declared the Centre's flagship Aadhaar scheme constitutionally valid in a 4-1 judgment. The apex court's five-judge Constitution bench said Aadhaar means unique and it is better to be unique than being best.Three sets of judgments were pronounced in the matter. The first one was pronounced by Justice A K Sikri who wrote the judgement for himself, the CJI and Justice A M Khanwilkar. Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justice Ashok Bhushan, who were also part of the bench, wrote their individual opinions.Here are the key highlights of the verdict:* The Supreme Court upheld the validity of Aadhaar saying sufficient security measures are taken to protect data and it is difficult to launch surveillance on citizens on the basis of Aadhaar. A five-judge bench led by CJI Dipak Misra asked the government to provide more security measures as well as reduce the period of storage of data. * The SC asked the Centre to bring a robust law for data protection as soon as possible. * Aadhaar is mandatory for PAN card linking, said the apex court. * The SC said no person will be denied benefits under social welfare scheme because of failure of authentication through Aadhaar. * The top court said Aadhaar cannot be made mandatory for openings of a bank account and for getting mobile connections. * The SC said that Aadhaar must not be made compulsory for school admission and the administration cannot make it mandatory. * The SC directed the government to ensure that illegal migrants are not issued Aadhaar to get benefits of social welfare schemes. * Private companies can't ask for Aadhaar, said the top court. * Justice Sikri while reading out the verdict on the constitutional validity of Aadhaar said that there is a fundamental difference between Aadhaar card and identity. Once the bio-metric information is stored, it remains in the system, he said. * The apex court struck down the provision in Aadhaar law allowing sharing of data on the ground of national security. * The SC said there is a fundamental difference between Aadhaar and other identity proof as Aadhaar cannot be duplicated and it is a unique identification. It added that Aadhaar is to empower the marginalised sections of the society, and it gives them an identity. * Aadhaar satisfies the doctrine of proportionality, said justice Sikri, adding, "It is better to be unique than to be best. "* The constitutional validity of Aadhaar was challenged by 31 petitions on grounds that it violated the right to privacy of citizens.
LOCUST VALLEY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – Two men from New York were among the Marines killed in a roadside bombing Monday in Afghanistan. Staff Sgt. Christopher Slutman, an FDNY firefighter, and Cpl. Robert Hendricks, a 25-year-old from Locust Valley, lost their lives in the bombing near their military base. Sgt. Benjamin Hines, 31, of York, Pennsylvania, was also killed. U.S. officials said a convoy of American vehicles was passing a car on the side of the road when the car exploded, killing the service members. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. “Marine Forces Reserve is deeply saddened to confirm the death of three of our Marines who were killed in an attack while deployed to Afghanistan as part of Georgia Deployment Program-Resolute Support Mission. Our focus in the wake of this attack is to support the family, friends and loved ones of our fallen Marines. These Marines are honored for their extraordinary bravery and for their direct contribution to the defense of this nation,” the Marines said in a statement Wednesday. “The circumstances surrounding the attack are still under investigation, with no specific details yet available.” Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered flags to be flown at half staff in their honor. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of two members of the family of New York, Cpl. Hendriks and FDNY member Staff Sgt. Slutman, while they were serving our country in Afghanistan,” he said in a statement. “Their deaths are a tragic reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of our service members, who put their lives in harm’s way to protect our values and way of life. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my condolences to their friends and loved ones, and I am directing that flags be lowered in their honor.” Web Extra: FDNY Ladder 27 honors fallen firefighter Christopher Slutman: A moving ceremony was held Tuesday outside Ladder Company 27 in the Bronx, where Slutman served as a firefighter before being deployed last spring. “Everything he did, he did top notch with full effort. Like I said, he relocated here to fulfill his dream of being a New York City firefighter and shortly thereafter he enlisted in the Marine Corps,” said Bobby Eustace, of Ladder Co. 27. “He was a great man, good friend, phenomenal firefighter and great American.” Slutman, 43, was a decorated 15-year veteran of the FDNY. In 2014, he was recognized for saving a woman from a Bronx fire. “Came up here to his dream job with the FDNY… defended his country as a Marine and, unfortunately, gave his life in that capacity,” UFA President Gerard Fitzgerald said. “He represents the very best of us, all the bravest of the brave,” FDNY Chief John Sudnick said. “We are forever grateful for his service. Our thoughts and our prayers go out to his family.” PHOTOS: Tribute To Christoper Slutman From Kentland Volunteer Fire Department In Maryland Slutman leaves behind a wife and three young daughters. “He was always positive, he was always doing things for people. So you felt good after you were with him. And if you were having a problem, he could help you,” said his father, Fletcher Slutman. Web Extra: FDNY moment of silence for fallen Marines killed in Afghanistan: Hendricks celebrated his 25th birthday last month and was expected to return home in a few weeks, his mother told CBS2. Now his younger brother, who followed him into service, will escort his remains back to Long Island. “Monday evening, the knock on the door no parent ever should hear came. We are inconsolable and broken into a million pieces, but I am, and always will be, proud to call my sons United States Marines,” his mother said in a statement. Hendricks graduated from Locust Valley High School in 2012. “Our staff members remember his kindness, passion for service, and commitment to friends, family, and our country. Following graduation, he immediately enlisted in the Marines and sacrificed everything for others,” the school said in a statement. “As a school community, we understand that we are all able to be here today, to live our lives, and to have opportunities and experiences each day due to the sacrifices that have been made by Marine Corporal Robert Hendricks and other Americans serving in our armed forces.” Funeral services for the men are pending.<doc-sep>Two of the three U.S. Marines killed in a Taliban attack on Monday in Afghanistan were deployed from a home station in Harrisburg. Staff Sgt. Christopher Slutman and Sgt. Benjamin S. Hines were reservists assigned to the 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, in Harrisburg, according to Department of Defense spokesman Maj. Roger Hollenbeck. Hines was a 2006 graduate of Dallastown High School in York County. Slutman is from Newark, Del., and was a New York City firefighter. Slutman’s father lives in York County, the York Daily Record reports. Cpl. Robert A. Hendriks, who was also killed in the attack, was a reservist with the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment in Garden City, N.Y. Three other U.S. service members were wounded in the attack. “The Marines were part of the Georgia Deployment Program-Resolute Support Mission, a reoccurring, six-month rotation between U.S. Marines and Georgian Armed Forces that contributes to NATO’s Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan,” Hollenbeck said in an email. Previously reported by the AP: Monday’s U.S. fatalities bring to seven the number of U.S. soldiers killed so far this year in Afghanistan, underscoring the difficulties in bringing peace to the war-wrecked country even as Washington has stepped up efforts to find a way to end the 17-year war, America’s longest. There are about 14,000 U.S. forces in Afghanistan, supporting embattled Afghan forces as they struggle on two fronts — facing a resurgent Taliban who now hold sway over almost half the country and also the Islamic State affiliate, which has sought to expand its footprint in Afghanistan even as its self-proclaimed "caliphate" has crumbled in Syria and Iraq. Last year, 13 U.S. service members were killed in Afghanistan. The Taliban have continued to carry out daily attacks on Afghan security forces despite holding several rounds of peace talks with the United States in recent months. The Taliban have refused to meet with the Afghan government, which they view as a U.S. puppet.<doc-sep>They were killed by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan on Monday. Three U.S. Marines were killed by an improvised explosive device in northern Parwan province in Afghanistan on Monday, according to the U.S. military. On Tuesday evening, the Defense Department identified the three Marines as Cpl. Robert A. Hendriks, 25, of Locust Valley, New York; Sgt. Benjamin S. Hines, 31, of York, Pennsylvania; and Staff Sgt. Christopher K.A. Slutman, 43, of Newark, Delaware. They were all from the 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve. Three other Americans service members and an Afghan contractor were also wounded in the attack, which occurred near Bagram Air Base. The wounded were evacuated and receiving medical care. Early reports on Monday from U.S. Forces Afghanistan incorrectly identified the contractor as an American who had also been killed, but an updated statement on Tuesday corrected that the contractor was actually an Afghan civilian who was alive and "treated along with other injured civilians." “We feel and mourn the loss of these Americans with their families and loved ones. They volunteered to protect their country. We will continue our mission,” said Gen. Scott Miller, Commanding General of Resolute Support and U.S. Forces Afghanistan. In a congressional hearing on Tuesday, Navy Secretary Richard Spencer confirmed that the three dead American service members were Marines. The Kentland Volunteer Fire Department identified one of those Marines Monday as Staff Sgt. Christopher Slutman, who served in their department as well as the New York City Fire Department for 19 years. "Through this trying time, we will remember Chris for the father, husband, brother, son, and friend that he was, the moral character he displayed daily, and the courage and conviction to serve his fellow Americans, both at home and abroad," the department wrote in a Facebook post. "We ask for your thoughts and prayers for his firehouse brothers, his fellow Marines, his friends – but most of all, his family," the post read. Prior to Monday's attack, there had been a total of four American troops killed in Afghanistan in 2019: Sgt. Cameron Meddock, Staff Sgt. Joshua Z. Beale, Spc. Joseph P. Collette, and Sgt. 1st Class Will D. Lindsay. There are 14,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan, many of whom train, advise and assist Afghan forces in their fight against the Taliban. In February, acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said he had not received orders from President Donald Trump to reduce the number of U.S. troops in Afghanistan by half, but U.S. military planners had been tasked with a possible troop reduction after internal discussions began late last year, according to U.S. officials. U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Amb. Zalmay Khalilzad has led direct talks with the Taliban which resulted last month on an agreement "in draft" related to American troop withdrawal and the Taliban's commitment to deny safe haven to terror groups. However, no final decisions have been made.<doc-sep>The U.S. service members killed in an improvised explosive device attack in Afghanistan on Monday were Marines, the Navy secretary said Tuesday, marking the first combat casualties for the service in more than three years. The Marines were killed by an IED attack on their vehicle near Bagram Airfield, north of Kabul. A contractor, an Afghan citizen who was initially reported dead, survived the attack, and three other U.S. troops were hurt in the blast. Navy Secretary Richard V. Spencer asked members of Congress to pause in honor of the Marines during a hearing on Capitol Hill. "It is still a very risk-filled world out there," Spencer told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. The Marines' identities have not yet been released by the Defense Department, pending family notification. One of the Marines was identified as Staff Sgt. Christopher Slutman by the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department in Maryland where he served for 19 years, according to a statement from Fire Chief Oleg Pelekhaty. “Through this trying time, we will remember Chris for the father, husband, brother, son, and friend that he was, the moral character he displayed daily, and the courage and conviction to serve his fellow Americans, both at home and abroad,” the statement reads. “… We ask for your thoughts and prayers for his firehouse brothers, his fellow Marines, his friends -- but most of all, his family.” The deaths mark the first combat casualties for the Marine Corps in more than three years, according to Defense Department casualty reports. In March 2016, Staff Sgt. Louis Cardin was killed in northern Iraq from wounds he suffered when members of the Islamic State group attacked his unit with rocket fire. The Taliban claimed responsibility on Twitter for Monday's attack. The insurgents were traveling with a vehicle-borne IED that hit the U.S. armored vehicle during a security patrol, Fox News reported. Officials did not immediately respond to questions about how many Marines are currently operating in or around Bagram Air Base. As of last summer, some members of I Marine Expeditionary Force were operating in and around Bagram, where they were training Georgian soldiers, who provide base security there. There are about 41,000 Marines forward-deployed in at least 60 countries around the world, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Robert Neller said Tuesday. "Some in harm's way, as we found out all too well yesterday," he said. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins.<doc-sep>
The Department of Defense identified the three U.S. Marines who were killed in a improvised explosive device attack near Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. They were assigned to 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve: Cpl. Robert A. Hendriks, 25, of Locust Valley, New York Sgt. Benjamin S. Hines, 31, of York, Pennsylvania Staff Sgt. Christopher K.A. Slutman, 43, of Newark, Delaware "Marine Forces Reserve is deeply saddened to confirm the death of three of our Marines who were killed in an attack while deployed to Afghanistan as part of Georgia Deployment Program-Resolute Support Mission,” Maj. Roger Hollenbeck said in a statement. “Our focus in the wake of this attack is to support the family, friends and loved ones of our fallen Marines. These Marines are honored for their extraordinary bravery and for their direct contribution to the defense of this nation.” Maj. Hollenbeck said the attack is still under investigation. “The Marines were part of the Georgia Deployment Program-Resolute Support Mission, a reoccurring, six-month rotation between U.S. Marines and Georgian Armed Forces that contributes to NATO's Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan,” he explained. The Marines came from all walks of life and had big impacts in their civilian life. “I am the proudest dad on Earth,” Erik Hendriks, the father of Cpl. Hendriks, told the New York Post. “It is going to sound like a cliche but he was the perfect son. He never caused me one problem.” SSgt. Slutman was a New York City firefighter who was attached to Ladder Company 27 in the South Bronx. “Firefighter Slutman bravely wore two uniforms and committed his life to public service both as a New York City Firefighter and as a member of the United States Marine Corps,” said New York Fire Department Commissioner Daniel Nigro. “The hearts and prayers of the entire Department are with his loved ones and with the families of his fellow service members who lost their lives in service to our nation.” Sultman leaves behind a wife and three daughters, a former Marine in his platoon revealed to Stars & Stripes. Friends of Sgt. Hines said he was always upbeat and was a fun person to be around. “He was all around a great guy with an upbeat attitude who loved the Corps through and through. He never treated you like a subordinate. You were always an equal and friend, Marine veteran and squadmate Sam Belli told Stars & Stripes. Kyle Moyer, a friend and Marine veteran, said Sgt. Hines and SSgt. Slutman were scheduled to come back to the U.S. in a week and a half.
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have really struggled badly in ACC play this season, thanks to injuries and an odd youth movement for a Mike Brey team. It didn’t get any better on senior night inside Purcell Pavilion as the Irish lose to the Clemson Tigers in the final seconds. The Irish had a rough start to the game and quickly arrived at the point where they were playing from behind for most of the first half. Huge scoring droughts have plagued Notre Dame all season, and this game was no different as they went 8 minutes with a bucket at one point. Amazingly enough, the Irish fought back to tie the game heading into the half, and it looked like tonight might be different. The Irish actually built up a 4 point lead late in the second half, but they turned the ball over, took bad shots, and got lost on defense enough for Clemson to come back to take the lead. With 3 seconds left in the game, Nate Laszewski went to the line for a 1 and 1 with the Irish only down two. Nate hit the first one, but rimmed the second. Clemson went back to the free throw line with 2 seconds left and made the first shot, and then missed the second shot. The ensuing full court lob found nothing but air. John Mooney had a huge game with 18 points and 20 rebounds. T.J. Gibbs added 14 more on a night the Irish were down their usual number and also Nikola Djogo and D.J. Harvey. Freshman Dane Goodwin had 12 points and his classmate, Prentiss Hubb added 7 more. It was all about droughts, untimely turnovers, and Clemson playing extremely well against the zone. Notre Dame has just 3 ACC wins this season, and will try to close out the regular season with a 4th against the Pittsburgh Panthers in Pittsburgh.<doc-sep>OMAHA, NE - MARCH 23: Head coach Brad Brownell of the Clemson Tigers reacts against the Kansas Jayhawks during the second half in the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Midwest Regional at CenturyLink Center on March 23, 2018 in Omaha, Nebraska. The Kansas Jayhawks defeated the Clemson Tigers 80-76. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) Clemson Football: Trevor Lawrence discusses why he won’t sit out his CFB career by Shawn Spencer There’s one week of the regular season remaining for the Clemson basketball team. Here’s the Tigers’ path to the NCAA Tournament after a tough loss to UNC. The Clemson basketball team suffered yet another heart-breaking loss this past weekend, this time at the hands of the North Carolina Tarheels. The Tigers competed with the Tarheels- a top-five team in the nation- but came up just two points shy with a questionable no-call to end the game. With the loss, Clemson basketball fell to 7-9 in the ACC with just two games remaining before the beginning of the conference tournament. Despite the loss- which was the fourth loss by two points or less in conference play this season- the Tigers still have tournament hopes alive. What will it take? Here’s a look. The Path to the NCAA Tournament… For Clemson basketball to feel good about its chances, the Tigers need to win the final two games of the regular season and then one game in the ACC Tournament. Clemson plays @ Notre Dame tonight and then plays Syracuse at home this weekend to close out the season. The Tigers should be able to beat both of those teams and will need to, in my opinion. If they win those two, they could basically lock up a berth in the NCAA Tournament with a win over, presumably, NC State in the ACC Tournament. This would the 8-vs.-9 game in the conference tournament. A loss in one of these three games doesn’t necessarily knock the Tigers out, though. The bubble this season is very weak and there’s a chance that a few other teams could play the Tigers into the field. What Clemson can’t have happen is to have teams- like Wofford- from one-bid conferences lose. That would create less at-large bids and, as a result, make the chances much less likely. In the end, it really comes down to this week. The Tigers can get into the NCAA tournament with a couple of quality wins to close out the season. They’ll have a chance to make some noise in the conference tournament, as well, but it’s going to come down to their mindset. There’s certainly not any room for error, but the season isn’t over. Clemson is more than capable of winning these next three games- two in the regular season and one in the conference- but it’s best to just take it one game at a time. It all starts tonight with Notre Dame.<doc-sep>
Clemson bounces back with close win at Notre Dame TigerNet Staff by Few things have come easy for Clemson men's basketball this season but the Tigers turned a close game in their favor to a 64-62 win at Notre Dame Wednesday. Clemson (18-12, 8-9 ACC) jumped out to six-point lead five minutes into the second half and maintained that edge almost seven minutes in. Notre Dame and Clemson then kept it to a two-possession - and mostly one-possession - game into the final stretch. Marcquise Reed, who scored a game-high 22 points, keyed the Clemson effort down the stretch. The Tigers jumped on top by one with under a minute to go with a Reed jumper. Reed then swooped in for a steal after Notre Dame called a timeout to gameplan and went to the free throw line, hitting both to extend the edge to three points. Notre Dame (13-17, 3-14) answered with a drive to the hoop from Prentiss Hubb and then Clemson's Shelton Mitchell went to the line. He hit 1-of-2 but sent the Irish to the line with a foul on the baseline. There, Notre Dame's Nate Laszewski stepped to the charity stripe and returned the favor with a miss on his second attempt to effectively seal the game. Clemson led by as much as nine points in the first half but the Fighting Irish closed the gap to even at the break, 32-32. The Tigers improved to 2-5 in games decided by three points or less with the effort. Elijah Thomas (14) and Shelton Mitchell (11) joined Reed in double-figures scoring. John Mooney led Notre Dame with 18 opints. The win keeps Clemson in the NCAA Tournament hunt, projected on the last four in and first four out depending on where you look. The Tigers close the regular season slate at home versus Syracuse on Saturday (noon, CBS).
WASHINGTON – Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh argued in 1998 that President Bill Clinton could be impeached for lying about his affair with Monica Lewinsky. For much of the next decade he worked inside the White House for President George W. Bush, where he came to the conclusion that "the job of president is far more difficult than any other civilian position in government." Thus it was that in 2009, after Barack Obama won the presidency, he suggested that presidents should be immune from criminal investigations and prosecutions, as well as personal civil suits, until after leaving office. "I believe it vital that the president be able to focus on his never-ending tasks with as few distractions as possible," he wrote. Kavanaugh's evolving views on executive power through the past three presidencies are supported by mainstream conservatives today. But they are viewed with suspicion by some who believe the presidency has grown more powerful than the framers of the Constitution intended. And Democrats are concerned that President Donald Trump's nomination of Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court is a reward for his espousal of presidential powers. Should he win confirmation, some of them say, he should recuse himself from cases involving Trump. "The president of the United States should not be above the law. The president of the United States should not be beyond a criminal investigation," said Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J. "The president of the United States should not be able to pick the judge that will preside over questions involving his investigation." While Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has said the focus of his party's effort to defeat Kavanaugh will be the judge's views on abortion and health care, his position on executive power is quickly emerging as a third front in the confirmation war. More:Will Brett Kavanaugh deliver the change conservatives crave? More:Brett Kavanaugh is President Trump's nominee for the Supreme Court More:For Trump, nomination may hinge on Kavanaugh's risks and rewards Like many conservatives, including most of those on the Supreme Court, Kavanaugh objects to one form of executive branch power: that exercised by federal regulators and, in particular, independent agencies. He is wary of green-lighting most agency rules under a 1984 Supreme Court decision, a process that has come to be known as "Chevron deference." Just this year, Kavanaugh dissented from a U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruling that upheld the structure of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, an independent agency created by Congress in 2010 in the wake of the financial crisis on Wall Street. He called such agencies "a headless fourth branch of the U.S. Government" that "hold enormous power over the economic and social life of the United States." Protecting the president For a primary author of independent counsel Kenneth Starr's occasionally explicit report detailing Clinton's transgressions, Kavanaugh traveled a long way to his 2009 article in the Minnesota Law Review recommending that presidents be free from prosecution. "This is not something I necessarily thought in the 1980s or 1990s," he wrote. But "looking back to the late 1990s, for example, the nation certainly would have been better off if President Clinton could have focused on Osama bin Laden without being distracted by the Paula Jones sexual harassment case and its criminal-investigation offshoots." Kavanaugh did not suggest that judges treat presidents differently, however. He said Congress should pass a law providing that civil suits and criminal investigations be deferred while the president is in office. If the president acts "dastardly," he said, "the impeachment process is available." The law review article – which also included recommendations for making agencies more accountable to the president and, interestingly, streamlining the judicial confirmation process – is certain to be a focus when Kavanaugh goes before the Senate Judiciary Committee later this summer or fall. Former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, who supervised Kavanaugh in the White House counsel's office, said the nominee is "probably right" that a sitting president should be immune from indictment and prosecution while in office. "If appointed and this issue were to come before the court, I think it likely Brett would recuse on this issue," Gonzales said. 'Enormous concentration of power' In hundreds of opinions and dissents at the powerful appeals court, Kavanaugh has backed the president's national security powers and has defended the use of military tribunals for terrorism suspects. “Especially on national-security-related areas, he is likely to be with the more pro-executive power folks on the current court,” said Jonathan Adler, an expert on administrative law at Case Western Reserve University School of Law. That would not represent much of a change at the high court, where conservative justices usually support the president on matters involving national security. Just last month, the court ruled 5-4 – with retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy in the majority – that Trump acted legally and constitutionally in banning travelers from five predominantly Muslim nations. On domestic issues, Kavanaugh often rules against federal agencies seeking to regulate commerce and industry. A recent example was his 2017 dissent from the appeals court's decision not to hear a challenge to the government's "net neutrality" rule, which sought to block internet service providers from offering faster access to some customers. The Federal Communications Commission reversed the rule this year. His support for a "unitary executive" model of government, in which the president wields more power, worries some conservatives in an era when those powers have expanded to areas such as immigration and the war on drugs. “Such an enormous concentration of power is dangerous," says Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School. "It enables one person to dictate how all kinds of things are regulated and controlled." Contributing: Nicole Gaudiano and Deirdre Shesgreen<doc-sep>At Brett Kavanaugh’s Supreme Court nomination ceremony Monday night, the Trump nominee told the country little about his actual views on the law. Naturally, Kavanaugh paid lip service to textualism and originalism, the faddish interpretive theories that currently dominate the conservative legal academy. But his substantive musings were limited to a suggestion that he, like Justice Anthony Kennedy before him, would devote his career to “securing liberty.” As slight as this statement might seem, it may have been the only illuminating part of the whole Kabuki theater. Kavanaugh’s promise is entirely in line with the jurisprudence that he has laid out during his 12 years on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The judge is prone to wax poetic about liberty—then selectively apply this constitutional value in a manner that aligns perfectly with the Republican Party platform. Liberty for undocumented minors and Guantanamo detainees? No. Liberty for predatory lenders, industrial polluters, telecom monopolies, religious employers, Abu Ghraib abusers, and assault-weapon enthusiasts? Absolutely. Kavanaugh’s record exposes a judge eager to impose his conservative policy preferences upon the country under the guise of constitutional law. In other words, he is the perfect nominee to accelerate the Supreme Court’s slide into a new Lochner era of systematic judicial assaults on financial regulations, gun safety laws, environmental protections, and organized labor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At his confirmation hearings to the D.C. Circuit, Kavanaugh disavowed the infamous Lochner ruling in a prickly exchange with Sen. Chuck Schumer. The 1905 decision, in which the Supreme Court struck down New York’s maximum-hour rule for bakery employees, remains the most notorious case of a 40-year period during which the court invalidated all manner of progressive legislation. Health and safety regulations, minimum wage laws, and federal limits on child labor all fell in the Lochner era, under the theory that workers have a constitutional “liberty of contract” to sell their labor under any conditions, and the federal government has little authority to regulate business. During his hearing, Kavanaugh disavowed Lochner, calling it a “classic example of judges superimposing their personal views on the decision-making process in an improper manner.” Advertisement Kavanaugh has illustrated a similar indifference toward mass-shooting survivors. Yet after ascending to the D.C. Circuit in 2006, Kavanaugh proceeded to follow the example of the Lochner justices. In a ghastly 2009 decision, he cast the decisive vote blocking lawsuits by Iraqis who claim to have been beaten, electrocuted, and raped by private contractors at Abu Ghraib prison. No federal statute shields contractors from civil suits under state law. Yet the majority concocted a “federal common law” to protect private contractors, then used this fabricated rule—derived from no statute or constitutional provision—to toss out the victims’ claims. In a seething dissent, Judge Merrick Garland castigated his colleagues for deploying a “vague and amorphous” standard to write their “policy concerns” into law. The ruling was Lochner on an international scale, with devastating consequences for torture victims. Advertisement Advertisement Kavanaugh has illustrated a similar indifference toward mass-shooting survivors and a fervor to safeguard gun sellers as vigorously as he defended violent military contractors. In a 2011 dissent, Kavanaugh declared that D.C.’s ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines ran afoul of the Second Amendment. The district contended that the ban would save lives, since these firearms are disproportionately used to shoot dozens of people in just minutes. Kavanaugh, however, claimed that the government may not prohibit semi-automatic rifles under the Supreme Court’s decision in D.C. v. Heller, which struck down D.C.’s ban on semi-automatic handguns. Bizarrely, Kavanaugh proclaimed that there “is no meaningful or persuasive constitutional distinction between semi-automatic handguns and semi-automatic rifles.” Really? As the Trace’s Alex Yablon has pointed out, the most common semi-automatic handgun bullet exits the muzzle with 300­–400 foot-pounds of kinetic energy—while the most common semi-automatic rifle bullet exits the barrel with up to 1,600 foot-pounds of kinetic energy. As survivors of the Parkland, Florida, mass shooting know, the bullets of assault weapons are far more devastating to the human body. An ER doctor who treated these patients explained that, unlike handgun bullets, this high-velocity ammunition leaves “a swath of tissue damage that extends several inches from its path. It does not have to actually hit an artery to damage it and cause catastrophic bleeding. Exit wounds can be the size of an orange.” Advertisement Advertisement Yet to Kavanaugh, the astonishing lethality of these weapons as compared to handguns did not justify the district’s ban. And he didn’t stop there: He also would’ve struck down a straightforward law directing gun owners to register their weapons with the government. Neither of these positions can be plausibly derived from the Supreme Court’s ruling in Heller. Instead, they appear to be a reflection of Kavanaugh’s personal belief that mass shootings are simply the price we pay for liberty. In a quartet of opinions issued over the past few years, Kavanaugh cemented his position as a judge keen to defend corporations with Lochner-esque zeal. In 2015, he dissented from a decision holding that the Obama administration could ask religious employers to exempt themselves from the contraceptive mandate by simply signing a sheet of paper. Compelling companies to sign this form, Kavanaugh asserted, violated their religious liberty under federal law, because it made them “complicit in facilitating contraception.” Two months later, he wrote an opinion blocking new limits on air pollution that cross state lines—a sequel to an earlier, more sweeping ruling in which Kavanaugh struck down federal regulations of cross-state emissions, only to be reversed by the Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Then, in 2017, Kavanaugh struck his most radical stance yet: He proclaimed that net neutrality violates the First Amendment. In a lone dissent, Kavanaugh compared internet service providers to “publishers, newspapers, and pamphleteers” who apply “editorial discretion” to their content. Internet service providers, Kavanaugh wrote, have a free-speech right to throttle the websites of their competitors, just as newspaper editors have a right to select their preferred op-eds.<doc-sep>He maintained that the government was within its bounds to choose a transfer to a sponsor instead of “forcing the minor to make the decision in an isolated detention camp with no support network available.” Judge Kavanaugh accused the majority of wrongly inventing “a new right for unlawful immigrant minors in U.S. government detention to obtain immediate abortion on demand.” He said that barred the government from intervening to connect minors with their immigration sponsors before making such a serious life decision. “The majority’s decision represents a radical extension of the Supreme Court’s abortion jurisprudence,” he wrote. Religion Judge Kavanaugh disagreed with his colleagues in a 2015 case about a part of the Affordable Care Act that required insurers to cover contraception. Under the law, employers must provide insurance to their workers or pay a fine. But employers who oppose contraception on religious grounds can bypass the requirement by submitting a form to their insurers, which then cover the workers’ contraception at no expense to the employers. Some religious organizations challenged that arrangement, contending that even submitting the form made them complicit in providing contraception. An appeals court panel rejected their argument, and the full appeals court decided not to rehear it — over Judge Kavanaugh’s objections. Forcing employers to submit the form violated their religious liberty, he wrote, though he acknowledged a Supreme Court precedent that strongly suggested that the government “has a compelling interest in facilitating access to contraception for the employees of these religious organizations.” The same outcome could be achieved, he contended, if employers instead only had to notify the government of their objections and let the government deal with the insurers. Separately, in a 2010 case, some atheists challenged the saying of a prayer at presidential inaugurations and the phrase “so help me God” in the presidential oath of office. A three-judge panel dismissed the lawsuit. But while the other two judges merely said the plaintiffs had no standing, Judge Kavanaugh weighed in on the merits. He upheld the practice as constitutional, citing the principle that government-sponsored religious speech or prayer at public events where prayers were traditionally said do not violate the First Amendment’s prohibition on establishment of religion, so long as the prayers are “not proselytizing (seeking to convert) or otherwise exploitative.”<doc-sep>WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 26: U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) attends a lunch meeting for Republican lawmakers in the Cabinet Room at the White House June 26, 2018 in Washington, DC. The president called the Supreme Court's 5-4 ruling in favor of the administration's travel ban a "tremendous victory," according to published reports. (Photo by Al Drago-Pool/Getty Images) Neil Gorsuch, U.S. Supreme Court nominee for U.S. President Donald Trump, is sworn in during a Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Monday, March 20, 2017. Gorsuch goes before a Senate committee as a heavy favorite, given Republican control, to win confirmation to a lifetime seat on the nations highest court. Photographer: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images Justices of the US Supreme Court sit for their official group photo at the Supreme Court in Washington, DC, on June 1, 2017. Seated (L-R): Associate Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Anthony M. Kennedy, Chief Justice of the US John G. Roberts, Associate Justices Clarence Thomas and Stephen Breyer. Standing (L-R): Associate Justices Elena Kagan, Samuel Alito Jr., Sonia Sotomayor and Neil Gorsuch. / AFP PHOTO / SAUL LOEB (Photo credit should read SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images) WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 15: Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh walks to a meeting with Se. Joe Donnelly (R-IN) on August 15, 2018 in Washington, DC. Kavanaugh is meeting with members of the Senate after U.S. President Donald Trump nominated him to succeed retiring Supreme Court Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy. (Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images) UNITED STATES - MAY 09: Brett Kavanaugh is sowrn-in at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on his nomination to be U. S. Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit. (Photo By Chris Maddaloni/Roll Call/Getty Images) Editor’s Note: Trevor Burrus is a research fellow in the Cato Institute’s Robert A. Levy Center for Constitutional Studies and managing editor of the Cato Supreme Court Review. The views expressed in this commentary are solely his. (CNN) — Brett Kavanaugh is Donald Trump’s nominee to fill Justice Anthony Kennedy’s “swing” seat on the Supreme Court, known as such for how often his vote was the deciding one on behalf of either the liberal or conservative cohorts of the court on issues ranging from same-sex marriage to the travel ban. c/o Cato Institute Trevor Burrus With the Kavanaugh pick, many on the left are now concerned that a more conservative Supreme Court could result in harm to civil liberties and the rolling back of federal programs. While those concerns are not unreasonable, they shouldn’t be apocalyptic. The reality is that gay marriage isn’t going anywhere, Roe v. Wade will probably not be overturned, and a court with a Justice Kavanaugh could help rein in an executive branch that has become too powerful. I am a libertarian, and Kennedy’s votes aligned with my philosophy more often than any other justice’s – albeit often accompanied by somewhat inscrutable judicial opinions. In addition to his stalwart defenses of free speech (Texas v. Johnson) and federalism (NFIB v. Sebelius) Kennedy was the swing vote in all the major gay rights cases of the past 25 years. When Kennedy arrived on the bench in 1987, same-sex intimacy was illegal in many parts of the country. When he left, gay marriage was legal everywhere. That’s a legacy for which he will be justly celebrated. Yet Kennedy did not so much lead that parade rather than join it. The growing social acceptance of gay rights is one of the great civil rights stories of all time, and it didn’t happen because the Supreme Court told us to do it. According to Pew, in 2001, 57% of Americans opposed gay marriage; in 2017 only 32% did. Those numbers matter to justices, even ones like Kavanaugh. Disrupting expectations and going against widespread public opinion is not something that any justice is likely to do. Overturning gay marriage would require invalidating hundreds of thousands of marriages, and it would wreak havoc with tax statuses, inheritances, property ownership and dozens of other legal relationships that extend from marriage. Moreover, overturning gay marriage would cause public opinion to shift against the Supreme Court, imperiling the legitimacy of an institution that depends upon the perception of legitimacy to function effectively. According to Gallup, the court hasn’t had an approval rating over 50% since 2010. While justices should theoretically do their jobs without concern for public opinion, all the justices are aware that the court could suffer lasting institutional damage if public opinion falls to a level like Congress’ dismal 19% approval rating. No one is more aware of that than Chief Justice John Roberts, and there’s no justice on the court that Kavanaugh resembles more than Roberts. Roberts’ controversial vote upholding the Affordable Care Act could be explained as a vote to preserve the perceived legitimacy of the court. And, despite voting against gay marriage in Obergefell, Roberts joined a subsequent six-justice majority in smacking down the Arkansas Supreme Court when it seemed to be dragging its feet on implementing the decision. Obergefell was the law, even if he didn’t vote for it, and Roberts thought it important that the court — his court — clearly tell the lower courts to follow it. Even more conservative justices, such as the liberal bête noire Justice Antonin Scalia, were reticent to overturn settled precedent, disrupt expectations, and imperil the legitimacy of the court. Scalia had a theory that some precedents, even if wrong in his view, were so thoroughly a part of our law that justices shouldn’t overturn them. As he quipped, “I am an originalist, not a nut.” Kavanaugh is a judge who adheres to a similar mantra. For all these reasons, Roe v. Wade is likely not in peril, either. Recent public opinion polls show that 57% of Americans believe abortion should be legal in all or most cases. Kavanaugh is perhaps the most mainstream conservative of any judge that Trump could have picked, and Scalia’s philosophy of judicial restraint has become mainstream conservative thinking. Roe is likely safe. So, if Roe and Obergefell are safe, what positives might we see from a more conservative court?<doc-sep>
Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Brett Kavanaugh meets with Senator Rob Portman on Capitol Hill, July 11, 2018. (Leah Millis/Reuters) He did not ‘try and prevent’ an alien girl from having an abortion; he simply applied the law as written. Since Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his retirement from the Supreme Court late last month, abortion activists and liberal politicians and pundits have warned that President Donald Trump’s pick will put Roe v. Wade at risk. Now that liberals have a name to put on the protest placards, the attacks are focused on the record of Trump’s nominee, Brett Kavanaugh. Within hours of Trump’s Monday-night announcement that he had selected the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals judge to fill the high-court vacancy, the barrage had begun. Planned Parenthood issued a press release demanding the Senate reject Trump’s nominee, claiming that: Judge Kavanaugh has already ruled to limit access to safe, legal abortion — just last year, he used his judicial power to try and prevent a young, undocumented woman in U.S. custody from accessing the safe, legal abortion she had asked for. In fact, Kavanaugh would have allowed the government to delay the young woman’s abortion by more than one month, pushing her pregnancy into the second trimester. Fortunately, the full court on which Kavanaugh sits intervened and allowed the young woman to access the health care she needed. Senator Kamala D. Harris likewise declared her opposition to the Trump nominee in a press release but proved more circumspect in naming abortion as the reason: Judge Kavanaugh has consistently proven to be a conservative ideologue instead of a mainstream jurist. As recently as last year, he disregarded Supreme Court precedent and opposed the health care rights of a vulnerable young woman. That ruling was overturned by a sitting of all the judges on his court. Behind Harris’ “health care” euphemism, however, lies the same unnamed case highlighted by Planned Parenthood — Garza v. Hargan — and the same deceptive talking points pushed by the nation’s largest abortion provider. Unless dispelled, the Left’s false narrative of Kavanaugh’s Garza decision will quickly take hold in the public’s conscious. So let’s set the record straight. The Garza case first made headlines in October 2017, when the ACLU filed suit against the Trump administration on behalf of Jane Doe, represented at the time by her guardian, Rochelle Garza. Doe, an unaccompanied pregnant minor from Central America illegally present in the United States, sought release from the federal shelter where she was being detained to obtain an abortion. The government, through Eric Hargan, the acting secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, maintained it had no obligation to facilitate Doe’s abortion, stressing that Doe had the option of returning to her native country or, alternatively, being released to a sponsor. The government maintained it had no obligation to facilitate Doe’s abortion, stressing that Doe had the option of returning to her native country or, alternatively, being released to a sponsor. A federal trial judge ruled in Doe’s favor, finding that the government’s refusal to release a minor from custody constituted an “undue burden” on Doe’s constitutional right to an abortion. The Trump administration appealed to the D.C. Circuit, and on appeal, Judge Kavanaugh authored the majority opinion reversing the lower court’s decision. The majority opinion began by assuming an illegal alien detained at the border holds a constitutional right to an abortion under Roe and Planned Parenthood v. Casey. The Hargan majority then analyzed the government’s position — that the constitution did not require the government to facilitate Doe’s abortion, because Doe had the option of returning home or being placed with a sponsor. While no sponsor had been found to date, the government represented to the federal appellate court that it had identified a potential sponsor for Doe. Writing for the court, Kavanaugh concluded that “so long as the process of securing a sponsor to whom the minor is released occurs expeditiously,” the government does not unduly burden the minor’s right to an abortion under Roe and Casey. The opinion then gave HHS twelve days to release Doe to a sponsor. The ACLU immediately asked the full D.C. Circuit to reconsider the Garza holding, and without hearing argument in the case, the full court rejected Judge Kavanaugh’s view and ordered the government to immediately release Doe to obtain an abortion. Kavanaugh dissented from the full court decision, and two other circuit-court judges joined his dissent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating illnesses that sickened dozens of passengers on three separate international flights headed into the US this week. It looks like many of the sick passengers were traveling from Mecca, where the Hajj was recently underway, and massive crowds of millions of people gathered. Public health experts say this was a lucky break. The incident points to how we may not be prepared for a worst-case scenario with a different bug. There have been a lot of coughing, feverish, sickly passengers flying into the US this week. First, there was an Emirates flight from Dubai that landed at JFK airport Wednesday morning and had to be quarantined. Nearly a dozen passengers on board that flight were hospitalized and given anti-viral drugs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said "preliminary tests indicate that some patients tested positive for influenza and/or other common respiratory viruses." But the agency isn't quite sure this was the common flu. Then, on Thursday, two flights coming in to Philadelphia from Paris and Munich were briefly held upon arrival because of passengers on board with sore throats and coughs. As NBC reported, those sick passengers were all traveling from Mecca, Saudi Arabia where the annual Hajj pilgrimage was underway in late August. It's not too far from where the first plane took off (in the United Arab Emirates). If a more serious illness showed up at a gathering like the Hajj, it could quickly spell disaster. "This is kind of a warning shot," Marc Lipsitch, a professor of epidemiology at Harvard who studies infectious diseases, told Business Insider. "It, fortunately, arrived in a place that was about as well prepared as any place could be," Lipsitch said of JFK airport, which has its own quarantine station. James Steckelberg, a Mayo Clinic doctor who's also a flu expert, told Business Insider in an email that it looked like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) did a pretty good job "getting on top of it." Had the illness been something more deadly, or had the planes flown off to a different destination, the experts agree: this could have been a nightmare scenario. "Public health experts have been saying for years that, first, there's inadequate surveillance around the world of human illness to really detect infections," Lipsitch said. "Large gatherings, including the Hajj, which may be involved here, are particular points of risk." Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are home to laboratory-confirmed Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), a viral illness which includes symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Death rates from MERS are much more concerning than a seasonal flu: about 4 in 10 who contract the illness die, according to the CDC. You can pick it up just from being in the line of an infected person's cough. "Imagine that it was MERS, and it arrived in an airport where nobody recognized it, and then those people all went, scattered," Lipsitch said. "I do wonder why we've seen relatively few transports or movements of the really scariest diseases." A perfect breeding ground of global diseases The Hajj gathers between two and three million people from around the globe every year to meet in Mecca, the holiest Muslim city. MERS and the flu aren't the only deadly viruses that may circulate there. Not everyone who travels to Mecca can afford to get vaccinated before they go, and people traveling from countries dealing with dengue fever, schistosomiasis, and leprosy send nearly 700,000 pilgrims to the religious site every year, as a 2018 study in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases points out. This happens at other religious sites too. In 2017, researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic found that flu outbreaks over an eight year period (2009-2017) tracked closely with Hanukkah in Israel, as well as with the Hajj in the Middle Eastern countries of Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, and Qatar. The danger doesn't disappear after the holiday is over. The flu has a range of incubation times, and some people won't show symptoms until four days after they've contracted the illness. Sharing a plane with a sick person is arguably one of the safest ways to travel with them; the state of the art air filtration systems aren't like the ones you'll find on the ground, once the flight is over. How to protect from future outbreaks The CDC warns travelers to the Hajj from the US that "because of the crowds, mass gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah are associated with unique health risks." The agency advises getting a checkup and making sure you're up to date on shots before you go, while the Saudi Ministry of Health encourages some medically vulnerable travelers — such as pregnant women, elderly adults, children and terminally ill people — to avoid the pilgrimage altogether. Lipsitch says one of the best ways for the world to prepare for future outbreaks would be to have more health care professionals around the world trained to identify and report illnesses, sending in samples for testing before sicknesses head off into airplanes buzzing about the globe. "When the people disperse, it becomes a multi-point outbreak, which is much harder to control," he said. That's especially true in the case of a respiratory infection like MERS, which can be passed around easily through coughs and shared airspace. "One thing we can't stop doing is breathing," Lipsitch said.<doc-sep>NEW YORK (AP) — The Latest on the emergency response around a plane carrying sick passengers (all times local): 6:41 p.m. The 10 passengers and crewmembers who were hospitalized in New York City after arriving sick on a flight from Dubai appear to have the flu. New York City health officials say they obtained respiratory samples from the patients and their symptoms look like influenza. They say they won't know for sure until they get final results. All of the patients were listed in stable condition. The Emirates flight was quarantined after landing a Kennedy Airport Wednesday morning. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about 100 of the 520 people aboard the plane had complained of illness, including cough and fever. ____ 3:30 p.m. An airliner from Dubai with 10 passengers and crew members who were hospitalized with flu-like symptoms was carrying 1990s rapper Vanilla Ice. A manager for the rapper confirmed on Wednesday that he was on the Emirates flight that landed at New York's Kennedy Airport. Ice, whose real name is Robert Van Winkle, used Facebook to post a video of the emergency response to an initial report that dozens of people could be sick. On Twitter, he described looking out the window to see several ambulances, firetrucks and police vehicles converge on the plane. He also said he was thankful he was on the top deck to the twin-deck jumbo jet. He said the sick people were on what he called the "bottom floor." ___ 2 p.m. Fire officials say 10 of the people who arrived sick to New York City on a flight from Dubai have been taken to a hospital. Emirates airline says they included seven crew members and three passengers. The plane was quarantined Wednesday at Kennedy Airport. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about 100 of the 520 people aboard the plane had complained of illness, including cough and fever. Medical workers in masks and gloves took passengers' temperatures on the tarmac while evaluating them. Story continues News helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by ambulances, vehicles and airport personnel. ___ Noon A plane was quarantined at New York's Kennedy Airport amid reports of numerous ill passengers aboard a flight from Dubai. There were conflicting reports about how many people were sick aboard the Emirates flight, which landed around 9:10 a.m. Wednesday. The airline says about 10 passengers were ill and got medical attention "as a precaution." The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says about 100 of the 520 people aboard the plane were being evaluated after complaining of illness, including cough and fever. Video from news helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by ambulances, vehicles and airport personnel. Passengers were exiting the plane with their luggage and getting on to buses. A New York police counterterrorism division tweeted it appeared to be a "medical situation." ___ 11:10 a.m. A plane has been quarantined at New York's Kennedy Airport when about 10 passengers became ill aboard a flight from Dubai. The Emirates flight landed around 9:10 a.m. Wednesday. The airline says the passengers were getting medical attention "as a precaution." Video from news helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by ambulances, vehicles and airport personnel. Passengers were exiting the plane with their luggage and getting on to buses. Representatives of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were on the scene. A New York police counterterrorism division tweeted it appeared to be a "medical situation." ___ This story has been corrected to delete a reference to an erroneous tweet from the mayor's spokesman saying the flight stopped in Mecca. ___ 10:40 a.m. A plane has been quarantined at New York's Kennedy Airport amid reports of ill passengers aboard a flight from Dubai. The Emirates flight landed around 9:10 a.m. Wednesday. The airline says about 10 passengers were sick and were getting medical attention "as a precaution." Video from news helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by ambulances, vehicles and airport personnel. Representatives of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were on the scene. Eric Phillips, a spokesman for Mayor Bill de Blasio, tweeted that the flight stopped in Mecca, which is experiencing a flu outbreak, and "early indications point to that as a possibility." A New York police counterterrorism division tweeted it appeared to be a "medical situation." ___ 10:30 a.m. The New York City mayor's office says a plane has been quarantined at New York's Kennedy Airport amid reports of numerous ill passengers aboard a flight from Dubai. The Emirates flight landed around 9:10 a.m. Wednesday. Video from news helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by ambulances, emergency vehicles and airport personnel. Eric Phillips, a spokesman for Mayor Bill de Blasio, says representatives of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were on the scene. Phillips tweeted that the flight stopped in Mecca, which is experiencing a flu outbreak, and "early indications point to that as a possibility." Airline representatives did not immediate respond to an email. A New York police counterterrorism division tweeted it appeared to be a "medical situation." ___ 10:20 a.m. The New York City mayor's office says a plane has been quarantined amid reports of numerous ill passengers aboard a flight from Dubai that arrived at New York's Kennedy Airport. The Emirates flight landed at about 9:10 a.m. Wednesday. Video from news helicopters showed the jet sitting on the tarmac surrounded by emergency vehicles and ground control personnel. A spokesman for New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio says representatives of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were on the scene. Airline representatives did not immediate respond to an email requesting information. A New York Police Department counterterrorism division tweeted that it was monitoring what appeared to be a "medical situation."<doc-sep>THE initial reports were alarming: 100 passengers on an Emirates Airlines flight from Dubai to New York had taken ill, and the plane was in quarantine at New York’s JFK Airport. That was probably an exaggeration. A spokesman for New York’s mayor later reported that 19 people were ill; ten of them were taken to a nearby hospital, and the other nine refused treatment. (Other reports said 11 were taken to the hospital.) The sick passengers appeared to have flu-like symptoms. Planes are widely regarded as flying disease-incubators. If one passenger is sick with a contagious disease and coughing those germs into the air, it makes sense for fellow-flyers to feel that the germs will simply be inhaled by everyone else on the flight, since there is nowhere else for the things to go. In reality, though, the situation is not that bad. Allen Parmet, a former US Air Force flight surgeon who serves as an aerospace medicine consultant, explained recently to The Verge, a technology and science news site, that infections actually don’t spread well on planes. The reason is the very dry air in the cabin. Many bacteria die in the low humidity. As for viruses, they travel on water droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. But these water droplets also evaporate in the low humidity, and the plane’s fast airflow from ceiling to floor prevents them from travelling far. The downside is that people do cough more on planes, due to the same low humidity. People are also likely to sneeze more, due to the presence of allergens. Cat allergy problems are particularly common, said Mr Parmet, since cat owners have dander all over their clothes, and neighbors who are allergic to the dander end up sneezing. But it is unlikely that a particularly scary disease like Ebola will spread on a plane. Precautions around this are high in countries with serious epidemics. In much of southern Africa, due to the Ebola outbreak in Congo, all outbound passengers walk through thermal scanners to determine whether they have a fever. Elsewhere, visibly sick passengers are sometimes denied boarding. The greater danger is when a plane lands, because the airflow stops, the humidity may rise, and diseases can begin to spread more effectively. This is when public health officials must make quick decisions about whether and how to isolate sick passengers or those who were sitting near them. But in the absence of a major outbreak like Ebola, it can be hard to compel passengers to be screened or quarantined, although at this point the risk can be more about introducing new diseases in the arrival country than about fellow-passengers getting sick. On the Emirates flight, all 549 passengers underwent a medical screening before entering the Airport, according to the Centres for Disease Control. An epidemiologist told Popular Science that the procedure was not really a true quarantine, which would require isolating everyone involved from the general population, but rather a temporary detention for a few hours to allow for testing and treatment. Given the long distance from Dubai to New York, it might seem possible for disease to spread and incubate on board. But most viruses take days to show symptoms, and there were indications that the illness was contracted by people before they boarded the plane. This tale will probably end the usual way. A few passengers, by the laws of probability, will get sick in the coming week, and they will assume it had something to do with all the germs floating around the plane. It may not be true, but it is for them a satisfying enough explanation.<doc-sep>
Story highlights There's a complex international network in place at all times, combating the spread of infectious diseases Twenty US ports of entry are prioritized for the CDC (CNN) — At least four times this week, in the span of just two days, health officials jumped into action to greet sick flight passengers. An Emirates flight from Dubai landed at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport on Wednesday morning with more than 100 passengers reporting symptoms including coughing, vomiting and fever. Eleven were taken to the hospital. That story got the most attention, but it didn’t stand alone. An ASL Airlines France flight from Algeria to Perpignan in France was briefly quarantined Wednesday when a child aboard was suspected of having cholera. And two American Airlines international flights into Philadelphia on Thursday – one from Paris, the other from Munich – landed with a combined 12 passengers who were evaluated by health officials for influenza and respiratory problems. When contagious disease symptoms present in the air, how do officials mobilize on the ground? What response mechanisms are in place? And how often are they activated? There’s a complex international network in place at all times, combating the spread of infectious diseases. This includes the global reporting of diseases, how and where they spread and the integration of data. It involves international, federal, state and local partners that, among other things, engage in surveillance of the travel experience, whether that be by land, air or sea, explained Dr. Marty Cetron, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Global Migration and Quarantine. Cetron cited a “prescient report” released in 1992 by the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academy of Medicine) as the impetus for the network’s development. That report signaled that globalization, increases in international trade and travel, migration patterns, world conflicts and more would lead to emerging infectious diseases. And so, since 1996, the CDC has been part of a mobilized effort to detect, protect and respond. Twenty US ports of entry – those with the highest volume of passenger arrivals and international travelers, including animals – are prioritized. But all ports of entry have points of contact. What unfolded at JFK was part of a usually “hidden network of protection,” Cetron said. It’s one that, day to day, “is relatively silent to the US public, as it should be.” It’s not entirely rare to see a medical response at an airport, he explained. New York City Acting Commissioner of Health Dr. Oxiris Barbot said her city sees five or six instances a year. But Cetron said the bulk of cases come up after passengers have moved on. In most cases, 80% to 90% of the time, Cetron said, the CDC and its partners are working to re-create history after a flight. Someone ends up in a hospital with the measles, for example, and a health care provider concludes from the patient’s travel history that other flight passengers may have been at risk. That’s when the network kicks into gear, tracking down where the patient has been and who needs to be notified and screened. It’s the same system that swung into action in 2014 after nurse Amber Vinson was diagnosed with Ebola she had contracted from caring for a patient in Dallas who later died from the disease. Vinson had flown from Dallas to Cleveland before her symptoms began and before she was diagnosed. Still the CDC and Frontier Airlines contacted all of the passengers on that flight about their health and well-being. Sometimes, as was the case on the Emirates flight, Cetron said, a call came in to JFK 30 minutes before the plane landed. The airport, in turn, contacted the CDC. Enough people on the flight – many of whom were returning from the Hajj, the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca – were exhibiting symptoms to cause alarm. And as they were coming from the Arabian Peninsula, the worst fear was the emergence of Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS. An organized system was ready to respond. The jet was not brought to the gate, to prevent the possible spread of disease. A team of officials boarded to do an assessment. Specimens were collected. EMS, fire and rescue workers were there in case they were needed. All 549 people on board, passengers and crew, had a temperature check before most were free to go, said Caitlin Shockey, a CDC spokeswoman.
Kensington Palace has released a statement regarding the gender of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's royal baby – saying that recent reports that Meghan plans to raise her child gender fluid are "totally false". An article in Vanity Fair claimed that the Duchess had told friends that she planned to raise her child in a gender-neutral way, with sources stating that Meghan had used the word 'fluid' to describe her plans. The magazine piece notes that there are "multiple possible interpretations" behind the claims. A palace spokesman said on Saturday: "This story is totally false." The palace have denied recent reports about Meghan and Harry's parenting plans The royal couple are set to welcome their first baby in the coming months, with speculation swirling as to whether they will have a boy or a girl. Fans were convinced it will be a little girl following Meghan's New York baby shower, for which some of the sweet treats and decorations were pink, though there were in fact a range of neutral colours at the affair. Meghan Markle's horoscopes for March ahead of the royal baby It's unknown when Meghan will officially take her maternity leave, though she shows no sign of slowing down as yet, continuing to attend official engagements and overseas visits. Harry and Meghan are expected to make the move to Windsor imminently, as they relocate from Kensington Palace to Frogmore Cottage to settle into their new family home. Loading the player... The renovation work has been tipped to cost some £3million – with the building work covered by the Sovereign Grant, while Harry and Meghan will foot the bill for the interiors. It's been reported that the home will include a private yoga studio, an eco-friendly nursery and luxurious décor by Vicky Charles, Soho House's top interior designer. No doubt the couple are looking forward to making it their own. William, Kate, Meghan and Harry pay tribute following sad palace news Harry and Prince William are thought to be splitting their royal households within weeks, too. A natural move since both have families of their own and increasingly different responsibilities, the change will see them separate courts and divide their staff.<doc-sep>Wellness Why Wasn’t I Warned How Much My Brain Would Change During P... Emma Jane Unsworth is an award-winning novelist and screenwriter whose novel Animals is now a major motion picture. In her first nonfiction work, After The<doc-sep>England’s Kensington Palace shot down the latest report that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would raise their baby "gender fluid." The royal residence put out a statement over the weekend denying a recent Vanity Fair report that alleged the royal couple wouldn’t "impose stereotypes” on their first child, expected in April. "This story is totally false,” Kensington Palace said in a statement to the The Sun. ADVERTISEMENT Friends of Markle’s told Vanity Fair that Markle planned to raise the baby in a “fluid" way, but it was unclear what specifically that was in reference to. The magazine notes that there could be "multiple possible interpretations.” Numerous reports as to how the royal couple will raise their first child have circulated as more states in the U.S. adopt policies allowing for a third, unspecified gender option on birth certificates and driver’s licenses. Colorado, Oregon, Maine and other states recently added an “X” option for nonbinary or transgender individuals on their state driver’s licenses. New Jersey, California and Washington have also included gender-neutral options on birth certificates.<doc-sep>The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, pictured in Morocco, reportedly do not know the sex of their unborn baby [Photo: Getty] Kensington Palace has denied claims that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are planning to raise their baby gender fluid. Speculation began after Vanity Fair reported last week that Meghan and Harry wanted to bring up their child gender-neutral. A source is said to have told the magazine: “Meghan has been talking to some of her friends about the birth and how she and Harry plan to raise their baby. Her exact word was fluid. “She said they plan to raise their child with a fluid approach to gender and they won’t be imposing any stereotypes.” However Kensington Palace have refuted the claims, according to Hello! magazine. A palace spokesman said on Saturday: “This story is totally false.” Meghan and Harry are expecting their first child in April [Photo: Getty] READ MORE: Meghan Markle pregnant: Baby due date, possible names and latest news There’s no doubt gender-neutral parenting has been creating quite the buzz of late, but what exactly does it mean to raise a child gender-free? In basic terms the parenting practice is about breaking away from traditional gender stereotypes children are often exposed to and instead allowing them to explore what they like to do, play with, wear. Paloma Faith, Kate Hudson and Russell Brand are among the celebrities who are raising their kids without gender stereotypes. READ MORE: Paloma Faith is raising her child as gender-neutral, but what does that mean? Meghan and Harry are expecting their first child together in April and reportedly want to keep the sex of their child a surprise. The couple will join the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at a reception at Buckingham Palace to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the investiture of the Prince of Wales on Tuesday.<doc-sep>
Kensington Palace has released a statement regarding the gender of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's coming royal baby – dispelling recent reports that Meghan will raise her child gender fluid as "totally false". An article in Vanity Fair claimed that the 37-year-old royal told friends she would raise her child in a gender-neutral way, with sources stating that Meghan had used the word 'fluid' to describe her plans. The article also noted that there are "multiple possible interpretations" behind the assertions. A spokesman for the palace confirmed on Saturday, March 2 that "this story is totally false." Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will not be raising their baby 'gender fluid' As the royal baby’s due date grows closer, everyone is buzzing about the soon-to-be revealed gender. Meghan is set to welcome her first baby in the coming months, having recently celebrated with a swanky baby shower in NYC. As photos surfaced, fans were convinced it was a little girl due to some of the sweets and decorations being pink, though there were in fact a range of neutral colors at the affair. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to welcome thier first child in April It's unknown when Meghan will officially take her maternity leave, though she shows no sign of slowing down. The former actress has continued to attend official engagements and overseas visits, including a recent tour of Morocco. The Duke and Duchess are expected to make the big move to Windsor imminently, as they relocate from Kensington Palace and settle into Frogmore Cottage as their new family home. RELATED: Meghan Markle's baby shower swag revealed - how much it was all worth! The renovation work has been estimated to cost almost four million dollars, with the building work covered by the Sovereign Grant, while Harry and Meghan foot the bill for the interiors. It's been reported that the home will include a private yoga studio and an eco-friendly nursery, among other amenities. It will be seamlessly done up in luxurious décor by Soho House's top interior designer Vicky Charles. Sounds like a nice way to kick-off starting a family!
Jun 13, 2018, 01:41PM IST Source: TNN Just when the craze of fitness challenge started by Union sports minister was dying down that Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave it a fresh lease of life with this video. The 67-year-old has been practicing Yoga for decades and it didn’t come as a surprise that he chose to do some related exercises. He was also instrumental in the first International Yoga Day being recognised by the UN on June 21, 2015. Modi’s list of nominations has a surprise name – Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy along with Manika Batra and all IPS officers above the age of 40.<doc-sep>India Narendra Modi Virat Kohli Modi Dear @narendramodi ji I am honoured& thankU very much for d concern about my health I believe physical fitness is i… https://t.co/qTylPnNxk3 — CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) 1528865630000 The 'Hum Fit TohFit' challenge has been reignited once again after Prime Ministerresponded to Indian cricket team captain's nomination. On Wednesday morning, PMposted his morning fitness regime that helps him lead a better lifestyle. Apart from Yoga, his daily routine includes everything from breathing exercises to walking on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas.In a series of tweets, the leader added that he rejuvenates himself by paying an ode to "Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu and Aakash" - the five elements of nature. As the challenge follows, his next tweet nominated Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, Goldcoast Commonwealth Games 2018 gold medallist Manika Batra and the entire fraternity of IPS officers with special emphasis to those above the age of 40.Accepting PM Modi's challenge in a heartbeat, CM Kumaraswamy further thanked him for being concerned about his health, adding that physical fitness is important.He further went on to urge the nation to devote some of their time towards fitness. He believes that the combination of comfort and fitness will help in bringing out a positive, fitter India. With the upcoming International Yoga Day, the month of June is definitely taking up a healthier spin to this year.The #HumFitTohIndiaFit challenge was first conceived by Union Minister and Olympic medallist Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. The campaign soon went viral when celebrities and popular athletes took up the challenge, urging the public to abandon an unhealthy lifesyle. From Bollywood stars like Sonam Kapoor Ahuja to cricketers like Yusuf Pathan, the campaign went viral. Skipper Virat Kohli garnerned public attention when he nominated PM Modi, along with his wife Anushka Sharma and cricketer MS Dhoni, after completing his challenge.<doc-sep>Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice breathing exercises. #HumFitTohIndiaFit pic.twitter.com/km3345GuV2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2018 Prime Minister Narendra Modi accepted Virat Kohli’s fitness challenge quite a while ago, on May 24. People have been eagerly awaiting videos of the PM’s fitness regime since then. Well, the wait is over and Modi has finally posted a video (above) of his extensive morning exercise routine. “Here are moments from my morning exercises,” wrote Modi on Twitter, adding more details and also (for those who are interested in such things) spelling “practice” as a verb the American rather than the British way. In the video, can be seen walking, doing yoga and stretching on a rock, walking along a narrow path, walking barefoot on a foot reflexology path, and doing some breathing exercises. Several camera angles are featured. The routine is decidedly less energetic than Kohli’s, who had posted a video of himself doing 20 spider planks (below) and tagging Modi. The Prime Minister passed on the challenge to HD Kumaraswamy, the Chief Minister of Karnataka, who, however, tweeted that he is more concerned about the fitness of his state.<doc-sep>#HumFitTohIndiaFit 🇮🇳🏆 Post pictures and videos of how you keep yourself fit and send a #FitnessChallenge to your… https://t.co/i4XiXIwMBG — Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) 1526967594000 This initiative makes me so proud ! Bravo @Ra_THORe #HumFitTohIndiaFit #FitnessChallenge this is how I commute to… https://t.co/wIH5DyrsC4 — Hrithik Roshan (@iHrithik) 1527005376000 I have accepted the #FitnessChallenge by @ra_THORe sir. Now I would like to challenge my wife @AnushkaSharma , our… https://t.co/aRUYRfDLne — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) 1527086028000 Challenge accepted, Virat! I will be sharing my own #FitnessChallenge video soon. @imVkohli #HumFitTohIndiaFit https://t.co/qdc1JabCYb — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) 1527130300000 Fabulous campaign by Sports Minister @Ra_THORe on #HumFitTohIndiaFit I accept #FitnessChallenge of @jayantsinha🙏 He… https://t.co/U5AYH5iGRi — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) 1527083891000 Yoga keeps me fit and helps me remain positive throughout the day. #HumFitTohIndiaFit is a great initiative by our… https://t.co/fEFlTVe3xB — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) 1527079326000 Thank u so much @Ra_THORe sir for challenging me 😁..#HumFitTohIndiaFit 🇮🇳🏆 Post pictures and videos of how you kee… https://t.co/FnoWrytQTV — Saina Nehwal (@NSaina) 1526982852000 Thank u @NSaina for the challenge #HumFitTohIndiaFit Post pictures and videos of how you keep yourself fit and… https://t.co/fr7WKeWbXj — Pvsindhu (@Pvsindhu1) 1527059803000 In March this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a "Fit India" movement, focusing on the benefits of yoga, in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, a radio programme in which he addresses the nation.Rajyavardhan Rathore, the recently appointed the minister for information and broadcasting, seems to have taken a cue from the PM to take the initiative forward. On May 22, he tweeted a video of himself doing push-ups with the hashtag .#HumFitTohIndiaFit.In his tweet, he asked India cricket captain Virat Kohli , Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan and Badminton player Saina Nehwal to take up the challenge. Twitterverse went into a spin with Rathore’s tweet garnering over 10,000 retweets and over 280,000 views.The first to accept the challenge was Hrithik Roshan. The actor posted a video of himself commuting to office on a cycle.The next day, cricketer Virat Kohli posted a video doing planks — complete with knee bends — calling it his “favourite core workout”. He also challenged his actor wife Anushka Sharma, PM Narendra Modi and former India cricket captain MS Dhoni to post their videos.PM Modi responded to Kohli's challenge by promising to share a fitness video of himself soon. “Challenge accepted, Virat! I will be sharing my own #FitnessChallenge video soon. @imVkohli #HumFitTohIndiaFit”, he tweeted today.How did #HumFitTohIndiaFit fire up the social media platform? An analysis of how the tweets worked and propelled the message further shows that Hrithik Roshan’s tweet led to an immediate spike in the number of related tweets. This was around 9PM on May 22.The next day, India woke up to the buzz, which led to another spike. Virat Kohli’s tweet later in evening saw another surge in traffic with the #HumFitTohIndiaFit hashtag .This morning, the Prime Minister tweeted his response accepting the challenge, which led to another massive spike in the hashtag’s popularity on Twitter .Of course, a number of sportspersons, politicians and celebrities have been tweeting with the hashtag and posting their own videos and tweets. Among them are minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju, who performed a series of push ups.While railway minister Piyush Goyal posted an image of himself doing yogaSeveral other BJP ministers and politicians joined in to promote the message.Olympic medalists Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu also took up the challenge.Other sportspersons who joined in included captain of the Indian women's cricket team, Mithali Raj, cricketer Gautam Gambhir, wrestlers Babita Phogat and Sangram Singh as well as sprinter PT Usha.<doc-sep>
Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing Hum Fit Toh India Fit challenge which was earlier posed to him by Indian skipper Virat Kohli. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has finished the "Hum Fit Toh India Fit" challenge which was earlier posed to him by Indian skipper Virat Kohli. In an around the two-minute long video posted by the official handle of Mr Modi he has shown his routine exercises which involve yoga and a walk on the grass that enhances body's flow and involves all the five elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Sky. In his tweet, Prime Minister wrote: "Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice breathing exercises. #HumFitTohIndiaFit" Watch the entire video here: Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice breathing exercises. #HumFitTohIndiaFit pic.twitter.com/km3345GuV2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2018 Prime Minister Narendra Modi was nominated by Virat Kohli. The Delhi dasher had picked PM Modi, his wife Anushka Sharma and former Indian captain MS Dhoni for the fitness challenge. “I have accepted the #FitnessChallenge by Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore sir. Now I would like to challenge my wife @AnushkaSharma, our PM @narendramodi ji and @msdhoni bhai for the same. #HumFitTohIndiaFit #ComeOutAndPlay,” Virat had tweeted. The Prime Minister had earlier replied to Kohli that he has accepted the challenge and told will post a video soon. The Indian skipper was initially nominated by Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore who had started this fitness challenge keeping in mind to motivate youth to stay healthy. Rathore had urged Indians to shoot a video of their “fitness mantra” and share it on social media to raise awareness.
Nearly a year has passed and little has changed at the home on Espanola Drive in Northwest Dallas, where a natural gas explosion killed 12-year-old Linda Michellita Rogers. Saturday, friends and family members remembered Rogers at a service at the family's church, Cristo Rey Presbyterian Church, on Northwest Highway. It's located five minutes from the home that exploded. The family is suing Atmos Energy accused it of gross negligence. As a lawsuit makes its way through the court system, what's left of the house still stands in ruins – a daily reminder of the young life lost. "Every day I look out and I see this," said neighbor Deanna Ward who still cries when she thinks of the Rogers family. "I just feel so sorry for them," said Ward After the explosion, Ward said she moved out of her house for a couple of weeks. Tired of staying in a hotel, she eventually returned home and lived without hot water and heat for around six weeks. "One day the plumber would be here for about an hour then he would go to another house without finishing here. It just took a while," Ward explained. Wednesday, Atmos Energy Corporation told NBC 5 in an email it has replaced 98 miles of pipe in the City of Dallas since the explosion on Feb. 23, 2018. The utility company says that’s 75 percent more lines replaced than 2017. The company said it also on-boarded 75 contract crews and filed plans to completely remove cast iron pipe by Dec. 2021. The pipe running along the homes in the Rogers neighborhood was not cast iron. The pipe was made of steel. And two other homes exploded one street over from the Rogers' home days before Feb. 23. Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said Atmos has more work to do to replace cast iron and older steel pipe. "These pipes are getting older, the ground is moving and we have to move to the newer pipe that is more forgiving and is not made out of metal that will corrode and weaken," said Jenkins. "We have to keep up the pressure to try to work with everyone to get the replacement expedited." Jenkins said he's called on Atmos to bring on additional contractors, even offering to host a job fair for eligible workers. He also wants to see Atmos provide current tracking of leaks and make it available to the public. "I'd like a real time map where you can plug in your address and see what the leaks are out there. We don't have that right now. I think if neighbors knew that, they'd feel a lot more confident in their safety," Jenkins explained. At the state level, State Rep. Rafael Anchia filed 11 bills that aim to increase oversight of natural gas companies. Jenkins said people concerned about the pipeline in their neighborhoods should reach out to state lawmakers and urge them to support legislation that would call for more accountability among utilities. In northwest Dallas, Ward said she feels safer knowing the pipeline in her neighborhood has been replaced. But, believes she'll always be extra cautious. "If I smell something that does not smell right, especially when I walk by my meter, I get a little nervous," Ward said. NBC 5's Meredith Yeomans contributed to this report.<doc-sep>Advertisement Family releases video of daughter's final moments before deadly house explosion Share Shares Copy Link Copy The family of a 12-year-old girl who died in a natural gas explosion at her Dallas home has released cellphone video the girl recorded in the minutes leading up to the blast.Linda “Michellita” Rogers is shown in three separate short videos last year preparing her hair and wearing her uniform in preparation for a cheerleading event.She speaks quietly so as not to wake her family in the early-morning hours. The last video, shot in hyper speed as she braided her hair, was recording when the explosion occurred Feb. 23.Her mother and three other family members escaped the rubble of the home with injuries. Michellita died at a hospital after being carried from the debris.Her autopsy report indicated she was in the living room at the time of the blast and exposed to its full force, The Dallas Morning News reported. Family members were in bedrooms with walls protecting them.The National Transportation Safety Board found that Atmos Energy had received complaints weeks before the explosion of gas leaks in the neighborhood. The company in a court filing has denied it failed to adequately respond to leaks in the area.“The heartbreaking incident on Espanola Drive that resulted in the death of 12-year-old Linda Rogers continues to weigh heavily on everyone at the company,” Atmos President and CEO Mike Haefner said in a statement Wednesday. “We live in the same communities where we work. Our families, friends and neighbors live in the very homes we serve. We are intensely dedicated to safety.”The family has sued Atmos for $1 million in damages and that lawsuit is pending.Atmos crews had been in the neighborhood several times in the week leading to the explosion, the newspaper reported, and there were two fires at houses that shared an alley with Michellita’s home.The incidents eventually led authorities to evacuate the neighborhood and Atmos shut off service to about 2,800 homes. At least 28 natural gas leaks were discovered in the area.Atmos said at the time that heavy rain, shifting clay soil and aging, inflexible steel pipes contributed to the leaks.Michellita was one of nine people who have died since 2006 when two dozen homes serviced by Atmos pipelines blew up in North and Central Texas, according to the newspaper. At least 22 more people were badly injured.Trending on AP NewsUS: Alabama woman who joined Islamic State is not a citizenOakland, California diocese names 45 accused of sexual abuseIowa governor opts not to appeal fetal heartbeat law rulingby Taboola<doc-sep>Stars Use 4-Goal Second Period To Dominate Blue Jackets 5-1Joe Pavelski scored his team-high 18th goal of the season as one of five Dallas players with a goal and an assist, and the Stars scored four times in 6½ minutes in the second period to beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 5-1 on Saturday night.<doc-sep>Linda "Michellita" Rogers, 12, was recording herself getting ready for a cheer competition when her house blew up. Her family wants her death to be a call to action for Atmos to fix its gas lines. DALLAS — It's before sunrise, but Linda "Michellita" Rogers is already up. She’s talking in a near whisper, not wanting to wake her family. She’s hours away from a big cheerleading competition. It's Feb. 23, 2018. “Good morning,” she says in a 32-second video she's recording on her phone. “It’s 6:02 a.m. Friday. … I’m going to get ready. I'm going to start with hair, turn on my lamp because I don't want to turn on all of the lights...” In the second video, she’s dressed in her cheerleading uniform and still trying to contain her excitement. “OK, so I'm sorry if you guys can't hear me,” Michellita says in a near whisper. “But they're all sleeping.” The images of an excited 12-year-old happily chatting as she makes videos on her cell phone are heartbreaking to watch. Michellita Rogers has no idea her life is about to end. She’s fixing her hair in the third video, which is a time lapse. Three seconds in, there’s a flash of light, and one split-second frame of what appears to be a shower of sparks. It is the last image you see before the video fades to black. In that instant, her house explodes, and Michellita is fatally injured. (Click above link if viewing on mobile app) Over the course of three days, Atmos Energy’s leaking natural gas pipes caused three homes to explode last February. Michellita’s home was the last. Her family authorized the release of the videos to WFAA. As the first anniversary of her daughter’s death approaches this Saturday, Michellita’s mom Maria Rogers agreed to speak to WFAA hoping to spur lawmakers to make changes to prevent anyone else from dying in an explosion. State. Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas, has filed a series of bills intended to strengthen the state's oversight of natural gas companies like Atmos, and make Atmos accelerate its replacement of aging cast iron, wrought iron and bare steel pipes in its sprawling system. “I don't want this to happen to another family,” Maria Rogers said. The National Transportation Safety Board issued a preliminary report that found Atmos was aware of leaks in the neighborhood for nearly two months prior to the series of explosions. NTSB investigators found a crack around a two-inch line behind Michellita’s home on Espanola Drive. The pipe failed pressure tests, the report said. “There’s been nine homes that have exploded in the Dallas area since 2006,” said attorney Ted Lyon, who along with attorney John Barr, represents the family in a lawsuit filed against Atmos. “Twenty people have been seriously burned and several have been killed," Lyon said. "They are consciously not taking care of their business. The only time they take care of business is when somebody burns to death or some house explodes.” After Michellita’s death, Atmos did evacuate thousands of neighbors and began a massive project to replace dozens of miles of pipe in that area of Dallas. Atmos blamed unusually heavy rains that they said caused significant underground shifting that resulted in numerous leaks. In a recent request to raise rates, Atmos said it had replaced almost 100 miles of aging steel and cast iron pipe in Dallas, but hundreds of miles of aging pipe still remain. “They’re gambling with people’s lives,” Lyon said, adding that this is the time of year when natural explosions often occur. This past November, a WFAA investigation revealed that Atmos lost, or can’t account for, tens of millions of dollars of natural gas flowing through its system. In Dallas County alone, since 2010, that's about $100 million worth of natural gas in its pipelines lost or unaccounted for, according to Atmos' own reports. State law allows the company to “recover” the cost for much of the lost or unaccounted for gas — specifically, the cost of gas lost or unaccounted for up to a 5 percent leak rate. “It incentivizes them to lose gas,” Lyon said. “It is a very bad system.” Atmos has previously offered condolences to the Rogers family. Beyond all the lawsuits and investigations, Maria Rogers is a grieving mother still overwhelmed by the loss of her child. Linda "Michellita" Rogers 1/8 2/8 3/8 4/8 5/8 6/8 7/8 8/8 1 / 8 “Michelita was a princess,” she told WFAA. “Everybody loved Michellita.” Michellita had big dreams. She wanted to be a doctor. She wanted to cure cancer. She wanted to help people who couldn't afford to pay for medical treatment. “She says she wants to be the top, top, top doctor,” her mom said. Asked what she missed most about her daughter, she said: “Everything. Her heart. Her kisses. Her loss. Everything.” As she spoke, her husband put his arm around her and her eyes brimmed with tears. She could not bring herself to talk in detail about the events of that fateful February morning. Before their house exploded, the family said there was no inkling of the danger in their northwest Dallas neighborhood. She said she knew that a house on the street behind them had exploded one day earlier. She saw Atmos Energy trucks all over the neighborhood. “They never go house to house and knock on the door and say 'you need to get out because there's danger here,'” she said. Maria Rogers, her husband, teenage son and Michellita’s grandmother were in their beds asleep when the house exploded on Feb. 23, 2018. None of them smelled a thing. In several natural gas explosions, victims have told WFAA that they did not smell the natural gas. Experts call the phenomenon odor fade. Natural gas has no smell when it comes out of the ground. Companies like Atmos add a chemical to the gas giving it a smell like rotten eggs. But studies have found that, over time, as leaking natural gas travels through the soil, the smell can fade. In the aftermath of the explosion, Maria’s husband found Michellita’s body in the front yard.<doc-sep>
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM/AP) – Newly released videos show Linda Rogers, 12, getting ready for a cheerleading competition on the morning of Feb. 23, 2018. In a time lapse video she is doing her hair, then the first moment of an explosion before the camera goes to black. Her family wanted to share it with the public, hoping to urge Atmos Energy to improve safety. Mother Of Child Killed In House Explosion 1 Year Ago: ‘First Thing I Thought, Atmos Killed My Daughter’ The 12-year-old’s parents and brother were able to escape from the rubble of the home in the 3500 block of Espanola Drive. Rogers’ family’s attorney said the house filled up with natural gas. Dallas Fire-Rescue said two other house caught fire on the same block were Linda lived. Those are also blamed on gas. Three days after Linda’s death, Atmos Energy started evacuations and turning off the gas to eventually close to 3,000 homes. One year later, Atmos tells CBS 11 it’s replaced 98 miles of pipes in that neighborhood. “The way I see it, yes, it’s nonstop. Now I think they’re overdoing it,” said nearby neighbor Sergio Barragan. Barragan said he doesn’t believe Atmos’ version of events. Atmos said the pipe system in the Northwest Dallas neighborhood was performing properly before the explosion and heavy rains and shifting soil conditions in that neighborhood put enormous pressure on the pipes. Atmos said it continues to work in this neighborhood and across Dallas to replace cast iron pipeline and has accelerated those plans beyond what it would normally do. The National Transportation Safety Board found that Atmos had received complaints weeks before the explosion of gas leaks in the neighborhood. The report also confirmed that it was a cracked gas pipe behind the Rogers’ home that caused the deadly explosion. The company in a court filing has denied it failed to adequately respond to leaks in the area. (© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
CHAMPAIGN, IL - JANUARY 30: The Lou Henson signature is seen on the court before the start of the Big Ten Conference college basketball game between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the Illinois Fighting Illini on January 30, 2018, at the State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) The Illinois basketball team will soon find out if they have landed one of their main targets for the class of 2019. On Saturday night, EJ Liddell took to Twitter to announce that he will be committing to a program on Monday night at 6:00 PM Central Time. This is when he will make a decision between either Missouri, Ohio State and Illinois. Liddell is a 6-foot-7, 220-pound power forward from Belleville West High School in Belleville, Illinois. He is rated as a four-star recruit who is the No. 48 player in the class of 2019 and the No. 10 power forward in the nation. This isn’t just any regular recruit for the Illini, though. They need Liddell for many reasons. The Illini need size in the paint, and Liddell would be able to play the No. 4 position for this program moving forward. He isn’t your typical bigger player either. This kid can jump out of the gym and create some serious mismatches for the opposing team. I think this decision is massive for the Illini because of the impact it would have on recruiting. Not only would Liddell be a big commitment on the court but if he does pick Illinois, that would give Brad Underwood the top overall recruit in the state of Illinois for back-to-back classes. In the class of 2018, Underwood was able to snap Ayo Dosunmu who was ranked No. 1 player in the state. Liddell would be the next big in-state recruit. He is also rated No. 1 overall in the class of 2019. That recruiting impact on the program would be invaluable. Monday night is going to either go down as a great moment for the Illinois basketball team and their fan base, or it is going to go down as a bad moment where most fans will worry about what is going to happen for the class of 2019. Some people will also question what Underwood is doing as a coach. I sure hope it is a great night for the Illini. We need to add to the class of 2019 and starting with Liddell would be huge. This could be the start of something special.<doc-sep>Belleville (Ill.) West power forward E.J. Liddell is prepared to announce his verbal commitment at 7 p.m. Eastern/6 p.m. Central tonight on Twitter. The 6-8, 220-pound Liddell is ranked as the nation’s No. 48 prospect overall, No. 10 power forward and No. 1 in Illinois, according to the 247Sports Composite. Liddell made official visits in recent weeks to Ohio State (Aug. 31), Missouri (Sept. 7) and Illinois (Sept. 21). OSU already has verbals from a pair of national top-30 prospects in Carton (ranked 21st) and Gaffney (29th). The OSU class is currently ranked 13th nationally and first in the Big Ten. A Liddell verbal would likely move OSU into the top 10. "EJ Liddell is one of the toughest kids in the entire country," said 247Sports basketball recruiting analyst Brian Snow. "He plays as hard as any player in this class, and has good athleticism. He is an undersized power forward more than he is wing, but his toughness and production are second to known. If he can improve his perimeter skills he has a chance to be special. Even if he doesn't, he is the type of high level four year contributor that coaches love." OSU head coach Chris Holtmann has one scholarship available for 2019 signees and was said to be looking for a “versatile forward.” Liddell helped Belleville West post a 31-2 record and win the Illinois Class 4A state championship. The Maroons defeated Chicago Whitney Young 60-56 in the championship game as Liddell had 17 points and 10 rebounds. That was after a 24-point, seven-block effort in a state semifinal win over Elgin Larkin. For the year, Liddell averaged 20.9 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists. He was the Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year and was named to the MaxPreps All-American third team. Belleville West won its first-ever state basketball title and ended the year ranked 13th nationally in the MaxPreps rankings. “I want to keep improving on everything – my scoring, my rebounding, blocking shots and my passing,” Liddell said previously. “I’m doing everything I can to get better for next year. I want to go back out and win the state championship again. I want to be the Gatorade Player of the Year again, win Mr. Basketball and be an All-American based on my performance.” Liddell’s stock rose this spring as he played for the Bradley Beal Elite team, which went 11-5 in Nike EYBL play. Over 16 games, Liddell averaged 14.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. He shot 52 percent from the floor (74 of 143) and 67 percent at the foul line (69 of 103). He was in double figures in 14 of those 16 games, including two 20-point games. He had 20 points, five rebounds and five blocks against Woodz Elite and 17 points and 13 rebounds against MEBO Team Hood. In five games at the Nike Peach Jam, Liddell averaged 13.8 points and 9.2 rebounds. Appearing in The 8 tournament in Las Vegas in July, Liddell had 29 points in one game and 21 points in another. The Buckeyes began practice for the 2018-19 season last week. Stay tuned for more preseason coverage in the days ahead as well as coverage of the Liddell verbal tonight.<doc-sep>ESPN 100 forward E.J. Liddell announced his commitment to Ohio State on Monday. Liddell chose the Buckeyes over Missouri and Illinois. The 6-foot-7 Belleville West (Illinois) product was considered to be leaning toward Ohio State coming out of the summer but took official visits to all three of his finalists. At times over the past month, both Illinois and Missouri seemed to have an edge for Liddell's commitment. But coach Chris Holtmann and the Buckeyes won him over with their consistent and lengthy pursuit. Ranked No. 44 in the ESPN 100, Liddell is a productive and physical power forward who prefers to do most of his work around the basket. He averaged 14.0 points and 6.7 rebounds for Brad Beal Elite on the Nike EYBL circuit last spring and summer, while also blocking nearly 2 shots per game. Liddell is the third ESPN 100 commitment for Ohio State in the 2019 class. He joins five-star point guard D.J. Carton (No. 24) and four-star wing Alonzo Gaffney (No. 29), making the Buckeyes the lone program in the country with three top-50 prospects already in the fold.<doc-sep>Finally, after taking official visits to all three finalists, it’s time for E.J. Liddell to make a decision — and Ohio State is right in the mix, if not the favorite. The four-star forward has Illinois, Missouri and the Buckeyes in his top three entering Monday. A 6-foot-7, 220-pound power forward from Belleville, Illinois, Liddell is the No. 48 overall player in the nation, the 10th-best power forward and the top player in his home state. Liddell, who has stayed silent about his recruitment since beginning to take visits to his three finalists, took an official visit to Ohio State on Aug. 31. One week later, he took his official visit to Missouri. Two weeks after that, he took his final official visit to see Illinois, his hometown school. And now, it’s decision time. Liddell will announce his decision at 7 p.m. Monday (6 p.m. central). It’s hard to overstate how big of a recruiting win snagging Liddell would be for Chris Holtmann, just a little more than one year removed from leaving Butler to take the Ohio State job. Ohio State already has commitments from five-star guard D.J. Carton and four-star forward Alonzo Gaffney. Though both Gaffney and Liddell are long, 6-foot-9 wings, Holtmann wants as many lanky wings as possible, so both would fit on the Buckeyes if Liddell opted to commit to them. A commitment from Liddell would give Ohio State three top-50 prospects — a five-star and two high four-stars — and bump its recruiting class up from No. 13 to No. 4 in the country, behind USC, Louisville and Kentucky. It would be the first time in nine years, since the Buckeyes landed Jared Sullinger, Deshaun Thomas and Jordan Siebert, that they signed three top-50 prospects. Even without Liddell, no recruiting class in the Big Ten has a higher-ranked group of 2019 prospects, so this would just strengthen its already top-ranked conference class. All three commitments would be higher-ranked prospects than the four the Buckeyes landed in their 2018 recruiting class, Holtmann’s first as head coach. Ohio State has been involved in his recruitment for a while. Holtmann’s program offered him a scholarship in January. Liddell has been in constant contact with the coaching staff since then. In April, Liddell tweeted out a photo of him standing with Holtmann and assistant coach Ryan Pedon, with the caption saying, “Great first home visit with Ohio State.” On his official visit, Liddell attended the season-opening football game against Oregon State with the entire basketball team with Gaffney and Carton. The day Carton committed, he told Adam Zagoria of the New York Times that he’s trying to recruit Liddell to join him at Ohio State. Two-and-a-half months later, that might happen. Ten of the 11 predictors on 247Sports expect Liddell to choose Ohio State. Late Sunday night, four-star Zeke Nnaji announced his top-five schools. Though it could just be a coincidence that the Buckeyes were not in the mix for the 6-foot-11 2019 forward with offers from top-level programs, such as Arizona and Kansas, it might mean he knows the spot Ohio State was recruiting him for will not longer be open, as of 7 p.m. Monday night. Ohio State’s recruiting “bread basket” Liddell lives a 6-hour, 20-minute drive from Columbus, which puts him right in Ohio State’s “bread basket,” a term Holtmann referred to at media day on Wednesday to describe the program’s recruiting base. Holtmann defined the “bread basket” as anywhere within a five-to-seven-hour radius of Columbus. “That's really what is extremely important for us to recruit, and to recruit well,” Holtmann said. “It is this bread basket of five to seven hours where we can recruit in the midwest. Certainly, we want to recruit Ohio well. We really need to recruit Ohio, those two things together effectively. And then, occasionally, you'll go outside of those areas to recruit.” There will “occasionally” be some “national guys” that Ohio State hopes to land, Holtmann said. Luther Muhammad, a freshman guard, hails from New Jersey and fellow freshman Jaedon LeDee is from Texas, well outside of the “bread basket.” But, most of the team’s recruits live in the targeted area, especially in the 2019 class. Liddell? Bread basket. Gaffney, who attended Garfield Heights High School until transferring to Brewster Academy in New Hampshire? Bread basket. Carton, a 7-hour drive from Columbus in Bettendorf, Iowa? Bread basket. Ohio State’s successful first season under Holtmann that took nearly everyone by surprise didn’t necessarily give the program an edge in recruiting simply due to its finish in the conference and the NCAA tournament. Holtmann said the two biggest positive impacts on the recruiting trail that came out of last season were the “validation” of his pitch to recruits and Keita Bates-Diop becoming the Big Ten Player of the Year. “They don't get you a recruit,” Holtmann said. “But, they grab the attention of the families when they see the development of a player. But, at the end of the day, they're not doing the work for you.”<doc-sep>
Ohio State's already impressive 2019 basketball recruiting class just got even better. Head coach Chris Holtmann and the Buckeyes landed a commitment from four-star forward EJ Liddell Monday — giving the program its third verbal and rounding out the 2019 class alongside Alonzo Gaffney, who committed in April, and DJ Carton, who committed in July. The Liddell File CLASS : 2019 : 2019 SIZE: 6-foot-7, 220 pounds 6-foot-7, 220 pounds POS : PF : PF SCHOOL : Belleville West (IL) : Belleville West (IL) COMPOSITE RATING : ★★★★ : ★★★★ COMPOSITE RANK: 48 After making an unofficial visit to Columbus in June, Liddell included the Buckeyes in his top five choices on Aug. 13 alongside Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin and Kansas State. He cut the list to three finalists — Ohio State, Missouri and Illinois — and took official visits to each program, beginning with Ohio State on Aug. 31. Then, on Monday, that list dwindled to one. At 6-foot-7, 220 pounds, Liddell was named Illinois Mr. Basketball and earned Gatorade Player of the Year honors at Belleville West High School last season. He averaged 20.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game as a junior and holds school records for points in a season (708) and points in a career (1,759). 247Sports has Liddell ranked as the top player in the state of Illinois and the 10th-best power forward in the nation. Liddell looks to join a team that currently features freshmen Justin Ahrens and Jaedon LeDee, sophomores Kaleb Wesson and Kyle Young and junior Andre Wesson at the forward position. Gaffney is also a forward. While at Belleville West, Liddell has shaped his reputation on a physical presence in the post with the ability to shoot on the perimeter. His versatility is expected to be the perfect compliment to balance out Gaffney and Carton.
Update, 10/12: Maid of honor Princess Beatrice has arrived to the royal wedding wearing a cobalt blue skirt ensemble by Ralph & Russo. She accompanied her mom, Sarah, Duchess of York, to enter the chapel. YouTube YouTube YouTube Update, 10/10: It's official! Princess Beatrice will serve as her younger sister Princess Eugenie's wedding this Friday. In honor of the announcement today, the royal family shared sweet throwback photos of the sisters on Instagram. This content is imported from Instagram. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. Original story, 8/2: Princess Eugenie's October 12 royal wedding to Jack Brooksbank is quickly approaching, but does she have a maid of honor helping her prep for the big day? Although the role is uncommon for British weddings, will she go the Kate Middleton route and break tradition? Or will she pull a Meghan Markle and not have a maid of honor at all? In a new interview, Princess Eugenie revealed that she will have a maid of honor, and her only sibling and sister, Princess Beatrice, will take on the role, according to People. Getty Images This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. "I’m not stressed at all," the bride-to-be said of wedding planning. "It’s nerve-racking because you want it to be perfect, but then you realize that you’re going to be with the person you love forever and nothing else really matters." Expect to see other royal family members involved in the nuptials too; Princess Charlotte will be a flower girl and Prince George will be a page boy. The tots have already had plenty of wedding experience thanks to their uncle Prince Harry, who got hitched in May, and aunt Pippa Middleton, who got married last year. Getty Images Like Eugenie, Prince Harry was speculated to choose his only sibling as his best man, and the groom ultimately did select the Duke of Cambridge for the role. Markle, on the other hand, didn't have a maid of honor because "she didn’t want to choose one over another," a palace spokesperson said ahead of the ceremony. However, her friends still helped her prepare for the wedding. Her bestie Jessica Mulroney, for example, assisted in choosing the wedding day wardrobe. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>This year has been dominated by one royal wedding—the one of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry—but it is the previous one that is still fresh on the minds of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Seven years ago, the royals eighth and ninth in line for the throne became household names when they arrived at their cousin Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton. And, they haven’t stopped thinking about it since. While the viral moment is somewhat iconic, the princesses didn’t see it that way after reading about the nasty reactions to their elaborate hats, designed by Philip Treacy. “There was a horrible article that had been written about Beatrice, and she got really upset,” Eugenie told British Vogue, via Express. “We were just about to step out, and she had a bit of a wobble and cried. I was looking after her. And then about an hour later, I had a wobble and started crying, and Bea was there for me.” Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie leave Westminster Abbey. David Jones/PA Images via Getty Images Ultimately, though, they’re happy with their public images, which, they say, mirror who they really are. “We want to show people who we are as working, young, royal women, but also not to be afraid of putting ourselves out there,” Beatrice said. “Nowadays it’s so easy to recoil when you see a perfect image on Instagram—but it’s important that it’s real. We’re real.” Being real means figuring it out as they go, which Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie say has been their approach. “It’s hard to navigate situations like these because there is no precedent, there is no protocol,” Beatrice said. “We are the first: We are young women trying to build careers and have personal lives, and we’re also princesses and doing all of this in the public eye.” No doubt the public eye will be even more trained on them come October 12, when Princess Eugenie marries her longtime love, Jack Brooksbank, at the same wedding venue Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wedded, Windsor Castle. But they’re not sweating it yet. “I’m not stressed at all,” Princess Eugenie said. “It’s very nerve-racking because you want it to be perfect, but then you realize that you’re going to be with the person you love forever and nothing else really matters.” For this royal wedding, the attention will be all on their union, rather than her hat.<doc-sep>Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie shocked the world when they arrived to the 2011 royal wedding wearing those hats, but they also received a fair share of backlash over the surprising accessory choice. In fact, the criticism was so harsh at one point that it left them very emotional. "There was a horrible article that had been written about Beatrice and she got really upset," Princess Eugenie said in a recent interview, recalling their infamous fascinators. "We were just about to step out and she had a bit of a wobble and cried," she added, per Cosmopolitan. "I was looking after her. And then about an hour later, I had a wobble and started crying and Bea was there for me." Pascal Le Segretain Getty Images This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. For those who don't recall, the sisters wore one-of-a-kind fascinators by royal-favorite hat designer Philip Treacy to Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding seven years ago at Westminster Abbey. Eugenie's was a blue headpiece with a massive purple flower topped with a white feather, which she wore with a Vivienne Westwood ensemble. Beatrice's was beige with an upright oval design and ribbon features that matched her nude Valentino Haute Couture dress. The siblings landed on worst-dressed lists and the Daily Mail called their looks "outlandish," but Beatrice seemed to get the brunt of the backlash. A Facebook page called Princess Beatrice's ridiculous wedding hat was created. (It doesn't seem to be available anymore.) WPA Pool Getty Images This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. This year, however, the siblings went the subtler route when choosing their royal wedding hats. Eugenie went for a retro-inspired Gainsbourg dress and Fiona Graham pillbox hat, and Beatrice wore a beaded Roksanda dress with a Stephen Jones hat so minimal it almost looked like a headband. Beatrice added in the interview that she and Eugenie want to present themselves as working young royals and "real" people who aren't "afraid of putting ourselves out there." It looks like that applies to fashion, too. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice gave a very rare interview to Vogue UK for its September issue, in which they touched on just how deeply the backlash to the hats they wore at Prince William and Kate Middleton's wedding—particularly Beatrice's by Philip Treacy—affected them. Both cried during a garden party in Buckingham Palace. “There was a horrible article that had been written about Beatrice, and she got really upset," Eugenie said, via Express. “We were just about to step out, and she had a bit of a wobble and cried. I was looking after her. And then about an hour later, I had a wobble and started crying and Bea was there for me.” Mike Marsland Getty Images Additionally, Eugenie said she's "not stressed" about her October wedding, and Beatrice admitted that despite their closeness, they do fight sometimes. “One of the biggest fights we ever had was about a pair of Converse trainers,” Beatrice joked. “We have the same size feet and both of us had identical pairs. One pair got trashed and the other sister may have swapped them.” Alyssa Bailey News and Strategy Editor Alyssa Bailey is the news and strategy editor at ELLE.com, where she oversees coverage of celebrities and royals (particularly Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton). This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io<doc-sep>
Most remember Kate Middleton and Prince William's wedding day as a happy and celebratory occasion. But, unfortunately for the Duke of Cambridge's cousins Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, the day wasn't quite as joyful as they had hoped. You might remember the tabloids taking aim at both princesses of York for their bold Philip Treacy fascinators. Some called their hats and outfits "outlandish" and "ludicrous" while others created Facebook pages mocking the head pieces. Despite the fascinators getting so much negative attention at Kate and Will's wedding, Beatrice tried to make the buzz positive by auctioning hers off for charity. Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice came under fire for their fascinators at Kate and Will’s wedding at Westminster Abbey in 2011. Getty Images Still, Beatrice couldn't help but feel hurt over the nasty things being written and said about her. Her sister, Eugenie, revealed to British Vogue in a new interview that the two had a moment where they both broke down in tears during a garden party at Buckingham Palace. There was a horrible article that had been written about Beatrice and she got really upset. We were just about to step out and she had a bit of a wobble and cried. I was looking after her. And then about an hour later, I had a wobble and started crying and Bea was there for me. Thankfully, Beatrice says the sisters are extremely close and have each other to lean on no matter what happens or how they're perceived. “One of the biggest fights we ever had was about a pair of Converse trainers,” Beatrice joked with the magazine. On another positive note, the sisters have Eugenie's wedding to Jack Brooksbank to look forward to on Friday, October 12. According to Vogue, Eugenie has been going crazy on Pinterest in prep for the big day. But when asked if she's nervous and/or freaking out about it, the princess says she's actually keeping her cool. "I'm not stressed at all [about the wedding]," she said. "You want it to be perfect but then you realize you're going to be with the person you love forever and nothing else really matters." Eugenie is so right about that.
Brie Larson not only has the success of Captain Marvel to take pride in, but now she can add a director’s credit to her resume with her feature directorial debut, Unicorn Store, now streaming on Netflix. The idea of unicorns existing in this reality comes across as a silly and ultimately distracting thought from the real world. Unicorns have a definite shape to them, according to their lore, and it would seem like a reasonable thing to believe in, but alas, the mythical beings are mostly viewed as figments of a lost imagination. It’s that imagination that Brie Larson’s character, Kit, attempts to regain in her personal journey towards not being a “disappointment to others” with her feature directorial debut, Unicorn Store. Written by Samantha McIntyre, Unicorn Store presents itself as something of a quirky comedy-drama, finding both the heartbreak and humor in growing up and becoming an adult in the ‘real world’. Ironically, this film had its own troubles being recognized in the real world, having essentially been in limbo for 2 years, with no distributor willing to pick it up for release. Considering how utterly baffling the main concept of the film is, it’s understandable that studios wouldn’t see people flocking to this movie. But Netflix, scalding hot after their major success at the Oscars this year, threw its name into the mix and now Unicorn Store now bears the label of a Netflix Original. Some might see this as a sign of doom, what with Netflix’s infamous dumping site mentality with its programming, but with a star like Brie Larson starring AND directing, it’d doubtful that this will be a movie forgotten by Netflix viewers. Having directed some shorts in the past, Larson has an inkling of experience when it comes to directing, but Unicorn Store is her first stab at directing a full-length feature movie. Not only that, but her role as main protagonist, Kit, has her pulling double duty by watching both hers and the rest of the cast’s performances. A tough job for sure, but Larson is confident and that confidence shines through in her debut here. But is confidence the only thing the film has going for it? Disappointment to others Unicorn Store sets itself up not only as a strange comedy-drama paying homage to creativity, but also as an intimate experience for Brie Larson, who went in and added home footage of her own childhood to connect it to Kit’s own childhood, adding in a meta-narrative about Larson’s relationship with adulthood. Larson’s natural personality seeps through in Kit, who is introduced as a whimsical and energetic artist, going to town on her paintings and letting her creativity run wild. All of this comes at the expense of her placement in art school after her art professors silently trash her work and consider her not to be worthy of the school. Now living back at home with her parents, Kit attempts to conform with what she considers adulthood by applying for an office job at a temp agency. But the story of Unicorn Store isn’t necessarily about her experience at her temp job. It’s about unicorns, or A unicorn to be specific. No, the title isn’t simply there for looking cool. In the film, the Unicorn Store is very much a real (ish) place that Kit visits after receiving a mysterious invitation from it. In it, she finds an eccentric salesman (Samuel L. Jackson in an utterly delightful charmer of a performance) that promises her that he can sell her a unicorn, which she has always wanted. It’s something hinted at pretty clearly in the home videos of Kit/Brie, making the narrative a little extra meta in the process. From there, Unicorn Store balances a comedy that deals with Kit trying her best to meet all of the qualifications to own a unicorn while simultaneously trying to bring a little life and color to her office job. There’s always something for Kit to do and learn, from meeting new people to gaining new opportunities for her creativity to shine at work and it makes for both a pleasant and emotional ride that’s seemingly small in scope, but encompasses a world much larger than Kit’s own. The perils of growing up Kit, portrayed fantastically by the actor/director, is an adult woman who hasn’t quite matured in a way that could keep her going in life. She’s more likely to have longer conversations with her stuffed animals over her own parents and she possesses a somewhat selfish attitude towards how she chooses to chase her desires. Kit defines herself by what she believes other people see her as, using this as her personal motivation to try to be an “adult” with a boring office job. Unicorn Store puts us in the shoes of Kit and identifies with her mindset, but in no way does it imply that Kit is absolutely right in her assessment of the world and the people around her. The plot involving the unicorn, though crucial when it needs to be, functions almost entirely as a secondary addition to the real story of the film: Kit’s personal journey to adulthood and the complex nature of creativity. Unicorn Store‘s world is larger and much more complicated than Kit has ever imagined, being enlightened in a way with her school failure at the beginning of the movie. “Not everything can go your way” is a motto that Kit seems to adopt after moving back home, but the film suggests that one shouldn’t be miserable and conform to the barriers of ‘boring’ adulthood even if some things don’t go as planned. Through the use of multiple interesting set designs and vast array of characters with their own unique take on adulthood, Unicorn Store demonstrates a detailed and realistic world that isn’t always out to get you or some part of a large conspiracy to keep creativity down. There are characters that are actively ignorant of an artist’s passion in this film, but they are hardly the focus of the film.<doc-sep>All that glitters is not gold in the Netflix original film “Unicorn Store,” a sickly-sweet monument to arrested development, built around a failed artist who never grew past the mythical, magical, one-horned creature that enchanted her as a child. She also likes sticking Bugles on her fingertips, consulting with a shelf of Care Bears and a color palette that suggests an explosion at the Skittles factory. Not that there’s anything wrong with that — at least not according to Samantha McIntyre, who wrote the script, and Brie Larson, who directs and stars, earnestly championing a dreamer that others might dismiss as childish or ridiculous. In fact, “Unicorn Store” becomes an argument for itself: If such a tacky fantasy can get produced, then clearly it’s a viable enterprise for grown-ups.<doc-sep>Fighting with My Family coming to DVD and Blu-ray in May 2019 by Alexandria Ingham Brie Larson’s Unicorn Store is now on Netflix. One thing Prime subscribers will want to know is whether it will be on Amazon Prime Video. Netflix’s big movie release for the weekend is Unicorn Store. Starring and directed by Brie Larson, fans around the world will tune in, especially those who have just seen her in Captain Marvel. Now Prime subscribers will want to know if they can watch through Amazon Prime Video. What about Amazon Channels? The answer to both questions is “no.” As it’s a Netflix Film, the only place you can watch Unicorn Store right now is on Netflix. It will not be on Amazon Prime Video. Unless something changes between the two companies (and our recent post about Amazon and Netflix merging was purely an April Fools’ prank), there is no way that the movie will be available on Prime Video as part of your subscription. Nor will it be available on Amazon Video to stream. What about on DVD and Blu-ray? This is a little trickier to answer. Some Netflix Originals do make their way to DVD and Blu-ray. This is more common with TV shows than the movies, so you’ll be able to get the likes of House of Cards, Fuller House, and The Last Kingdom on DVD. The Netflix movies don’t tend to get the DVD releases, because Netflix wants to make its subscription service valuable with exclusive content. The need to make it valuable is more important now than ever before. With Disney and WarnerMedia creating new subscription services and removing content from the streaming site, we may see fewer Netflix Originals make it to DVD and Blu-ray. This is bad news for those of you who prefer Amazon or want to own Unicorn Store on DVD and Blu-ray. However, Netflix is the only place for it. What movies are you excited to come out? Which movies and shows would you like to see come to Amazon Prime Video? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Watch 1000s of TV shows and movies with a 30-day FREE trial of Amazon Prime<doc-sep>Did you ever want a pet unicorn when you were a kid? We didn’t, but we’re pretty sure we knew kids who did (we also know a lot of little ones now who would love to have one). Usually those dreams fade when you grow up and realize that unicorns, you know, don’t exist. But what if a person grew up still believing, and actually getting a chance to get her wish? It’s the subject of Unicorn Store, which is produced and directed by its star, Oscar winner Brie Larson. Read on for more on this whimsical film… UNICORN STORE: STREAM IT OR SKIP IT? The Gist: Kit (Brie Larson) is a young woman who has always believed in the power of mystical things like unicorns. Even into her adulthood, she still likes to talk to her Care Bears and watch Rainbow Brite reruns. But she ends up flunking out of art school because she continues to paint murals with rainbows and wizards and unicorns instead of what her teachers consider “real” art. Even now, she wishes she had her very own pet unicorn, even though she knows they don’t exist. Back home with her parents, Gene (Bradley Whitford) and Gladys (Joan Cusack), she finally decides to buckle down and get a temp job. She gets one at a PR agency, whose vice president, Gary (Hamish Linklater), takes a creepy shine to her. He wants to see what she can do with a deadly boring vacuum cleaner campaign. While she works on that, she keeps getting colorful invitations to visit a place called “The Store,” which promises exactly what she wants. When she gets to The Store, she meets a pink-clad salesman (Samuel L. Jackson) with tinsel in his hair. He says he can sell her a unicorn, and shows her around to rooms where the unicorns are cleaned (it looks like a girl’s bedroom), fed (looks like a restaurant) and more. Kit so wants that unicorn that she’ll follow the salesman’s rules. She meets a hardware store employee named Virgil (Mamoudou Athie), who agrees to build a stable for her, knowing nothing about how to build stuff. But the salesman also requires a good home environment, which becomes difficult to achieve when she tells her parents the truth during a “truth circle” on one of their camping trips with at-risk teens. Will she even believe in unicorns by the time one is ready for her? What Movies Will It Remind You Of? : Imagine Big, but the person who hasn’t grown up emotionally is actually a real grown-up, not a kid who wishes he were grown-up. Performance Worth Watching: Joan Cusack, as usual, does the most with a thankless role. As Kit’s mom Gladys, she takes the brunt of her daughter’s immaturity, having to watch her 27-year-old daughter not just express herself artistically like an 11-year-old, but pout and argue like one, too. In a scene after Kit’s campfire freak-out, Gladys reassures Kit that “the most grown-up thing you can do is fail at things you really care about.” Cusack has two Oscar nominations for playing roles like this, and for good reason; she completely holds her own with Larson, who won an Oscar for Room three years ago. Memorable Dialogue: The salesman: “Here we have our fine dining establishment, or ‘haysturant’, we like to call it.” Single Best Shot: After the talk with her mom, Kit decides to be herself including caking the vacuum cleaner she’s writing the campaign for in paint and glitter. She also comes to the presentation in a spectacular, fringe-filled outfit. Sex and Skin: Nah, not in this film. Our Take: Unicorn Store is Brie Larson’s first directorial effort; the movie is written by Samantha McIntyre. If you see reviews that say that the film is a reunion of Larson and Jackson after they starred together in Captain Marvel, then they have it backwards; this movie was first shown at TIFF in 2017, with Netflix buying the distribution rights and finally releasing it now. Which makes us wonder: A newly-minted Oscar winner is starring, directing and producing this film that also has Sam Jackson in it. Why hold it for a year-and-a-half? Probably Captain Marvel‘s release had something to do with it, to get some juice from that. But it’s likely because Unicorn Store is a deeply strange movie that has some inspired moments, some thuddingly dull moments, and some other moments that are just headscratchers. How could we not love Jackson as the salesman, who is supposed to be this lighthearted and friendly guy, but also says things like the unicorns are covered in “leaves and berries and shit” when they arrive? We’ve already talked about Cusack, and Whitford is solid as usual. We’re even impressed with Athie as Virgil, who goes along with Kit’s whims even though he’s much more grounded than she is. The problem, and we hate to say this, is with Larson, both in front of and behind the camera. We know how good of an actress she can be, and in some scenes — like the one with Cusack we mention above — we see that come out. But it’s one thing to play Kit as an adult who refuses to grow up (most of us who are much older than she is are in her boat), but it’s another thing to play her as someone who has the emotional capacity of a preteen. Instead of making Kit look whimsical and unique, she makes Kit look petulant and in need of some serious therapy. Having Kit talk about her “famous temper tantrums” while seeing the face of a person who is almost 30 is just disconcerting. And there are some editing issues, at least when it comes to the movie’s storytelling, which speaks to Larson’s inexperience as a director. When she presents her vacuum cleaner idea, she’s accompanied by Sabrina (Martha MacIsaac) and mailroom guy Brock (Ryan Hansen), who are enthusiastic about the presentation, and we’re not sure why.<doc-sep>
Unicorns are almost universally associated with girlhood. The desire for the horned creature to be real stems from the same impulse that gives us “horse girls,” sent Robot Unicorn Attack viral, and popularized Lisa Frank. That level of fantasy — those bright colors, that glitter — can only exist free of the responsibilities and monotony of adulthood. Adult women wear suits, take their lives seriously, eat kale, and long for “bikini-ready” bodies. Or so Netflix’s Unicorn Store would have you believe. The ambition behind Brie Larson’s directorial debut is admirable. Learning to grow up while still being yourself is an endlessly repeatable lesson where movies are concerned, and it’s told less often from the perspective of young women. However, the script, written by Samantha McIntyre (and which Larson actually auditioned for — and failed to get — some years ago), is so intent on embracing the “be yourself” ethos that it exposes the limitations of its own message. The very first scene of Unicorn Store — a montage of home videos of a precocious child melts into footage of Kit (Larson), now grown, energetically painting the wall — sets the tone for everything that follows. By the end, there’s colorful paint splotched perfectly over her face and clothes, and she finishes off her masterwork by blowing glitter onto the canvas. When she turns around, it’s revealed that she’s in the middle of an art class. Everyone else has painted within the canvas, and has dressed in dark colors in contrast to Kit’s white or rainbow-patterned clothing. Her instructor gives her a failing grade, and disapprovingly shakes his head. It’s a quick, easy way of communicating Kit’s free spirit, but also the kind of signalling that inherently devalues the characters around her. For better or worse, Unicorn Store feels like a movie made at least a decade too late, plucked from a time before Garden State, before the “manic pixie dream girl” trope was re-evaluated, and before “geek girl vs. cheerleader” was recognized as unnecessarily pitting women against each other. When Kit finally gets a job as an office temp, her female coworkers are either mousy or mean girls, and implicitly derided for their modest ambitions. Naturally, Kit is meant for more than office work. Multiple colorful envelopes arrive to invite her to “The Store,” where she discovers that her favorite childhood animal, the unicorn, may actually be within her reach. The mysterious Salesman (Larson’s Captain Marvel and Kong: Skull Island co-star Samuel L. Jackson) offers to sell her one — so long as she meets a certain set of conditions, including providing a negativity-free environment and a suitable stable. To have a unicorn, she has to prove that she deserves one. Though the unicorn may be a fantastical creature, it can’t be everything the film is asking it to be. The creature stands for the promise of companionship, for embracing one’s unique voice, for never letting go of one’s inner child ... and for the compromises necessary in growing up? In trying to flesh out the characters around Kit — her emotional support camp-running parents (Bradley Whitford and Joan Cusack), her two nice co-workers (Martha MacIsaac and Ryan Hansen) — Unicorn Store is forced to use more colors than the black and white demanded by Kit’s unassailably loud personality. These are characters who have accepted some measure of compromise in their lives, and not necessarily for the worse. To put it differently, adulthood means that no one can monitor how much candy you eat anymore — but if you eat too much, you’ll make yourself sick. The problem is that Unicorn Store is built on a foundation of “all candy, all the time.” The best parts of the movie are either insufficiently explored (Kit’s sense that she’s a disappointment to her parents, which most of us are familiar with); tertiary (Jackson’s brightly patterned suits); or regrettably male-centric in a movie about a young woman’s coming of age (Hamish Linklater and Mamoudou Athie deliver standout performances as Kit’s creepy boss and the hapless hardware store employee roped into helping her build a stable). On top of it all, the sense that the gung-ho energy Kit projects is not necessarily tenable ends up coming true in the film’s final moments, shattering the film’s own messaging and stranding Larson as a director. There’s no room for her to do anything particularly interesting given how much energy has to be spent just holding the movie together.
Engines revved, hoods popped and crowds gazed Saturday as the 2018 Woodward Dream Cruise took over one of metro Detroit's major traffic arteries. The partly-cloudy skies and warm weather made for ideal conditions as sports cars, hot rods, antiques and more drew crowds along Woodward Avenue between Ferndale and Pontiac. The annual event drew as many as 1.5 million people and 40,000 classic cars. In addition to traditions such as Mustang Alley — a line of Ford Mustangs new and old parked along 9 Mile in Ferndale — a number of off-beat automotive enthusiasts joined the parade of shiny, waxed fenders and rumbling exhaust pipes. Among them: the classic hearses and ambulances with the Professional Car Society. The international group brought its annual meeting, including about 100 people with their cars, to this year's Dream Cruise. It meant more "Ghostbusters"-style vehicles in the mix than perhaps ever before. Also seen were an upside-down van, a Coca-Cola-themed convertible with a large, open umbrella, and a golf cart customized to look like a classic car with little headlights and flame decals. More on 2018 Woodward Dream Cruise: Your guide to the Dream Cruise this weekend Is that a hearse at the Woodward Dream Cruise? How businesses cash in on Dream Cruise See top car designers' art before Dream Cruise 5 best places to watch the Dream Cruise<doc-sep>The Woodward Dream Cruise is Pure Michigan. Rich Lytle’s rolling recliner is pure Dream Cruise. So is a dad explaining an automotive camel to his kids, and a Rolls Royce with a trunk full of toy sharks, and just about everything else associated with a long, loud, deliciously Metro Detroit day. Maybe you could see some of it somewhere else, but you wouldn’t see all of it in the space of a few miles. Lytle of Warren parked his custom motorized scooter on the corner of Cambourne and Woodward in Ferndale. He mounted a recliner on the scooter, fixed a cooler to the back, and rolled through Ferndale before finding a spot to post up. Thinking you might want something like it for next August? The chair is for sale, he said — even though “I usually have the best seat.” Ever wonder if the Joker really got away after the Batmobile lost its wheel? Well, wonder no longer as the Dark Night apparently got a Polaris Slingshot and was seen chasing his nemesis down Woodward near College Street in Ferndale. Elsewhere, Jeff Taylor of Northville was sharing his expertise — and more important, his enthusiasm — with his 9-year-old son. First he took Brady to the forward end of a Chevrolet El Camino parked on Old Woodward in Birmingham, which was closed to traffic south of Maple. “It looks like a car in front and a truck in back,” Taylor said. “Isn’t that cool?” Brady agreed that it was. “That’s the experience I want to share with him,” said Taylor, a middle school science and math teacher who uses car concepts like brakes and friction in the classroom. “Both of his grandfathers are car guys, too, so he’s hooked. He’s in.” Taylor’s teal 1992 Camaro was parked down the block. He bought the car with his dad when he was 17, and it has finally aged into officially being a historic vehicle. The Camaro carried Taylor and his wife, Jennifer, to their high school prom. “You can go and buy a $70,000 Corvette,” he said, “but you can’t duplicate that,” any more than you can copy the glee of a car guy and a car kid surrounded by hoopla and history. Peter Kohnken of Highland Township arrived at Dream Cruise by himself, but he’s a kid at heart. A mildly delinquent kid. Kohnken has a sticker on the rear bumper of his car: “Live simply so that others may simply live.” The car is a maroon and taupe 1957 Rolls Royce, and above the bumper was an open trunk full of stuffed sharks singing “One Way or Another.” “They’re my lawyers,” said Kohnken, 78, a retired EPA enforcement officer. As for the bumper sticker, the satchel full of fake money on the passenger seat and the jar of Grey Poupon on a shelf next to the right-hand-drive steering wheel, “I’m crazy. That’s why.” “I’m an in-your-face guy,” he explained further — but also a softie. He was giving the plush sharks away to any little kid who showed an interest in them. Also in the kid-at-heart category, as well as the kid-on-Woodward category, was Robin DeDecker. She lives in Gibraltar and takes owning a real-life Transformer as a calling. With her husband, Mark, at the wheel, she was peering out the window of their limited edition Chevrolet Camaro wearing a Bumblebee mask. Even the heat couldn’t stop her. The Camaro is a limited edition 2010 modeled after the car from the movie — in bumblebee yellow, of course. “She’s a trooper for putting that helmet on,” Mark DeDecker said. “Every year we try to do something different.” Their car is one of just 300 made. The engine is emblazoned with the movie character and the advisory, “bee powered.” The personalized license plate leaves no doubts either: "BEE PWR." Five stories above Woodward but not far from the spirit of the day, Swedish auto executive Bo Andersson and some of his friends watched the cruise from one of the two penthouse patios of his apartment in Birmingham’s Greenleaf Trust building. Former Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander used to live one floor down, if that helps give a sense of the loftiness. The rent is $15,000 a month, a friend says. That’s about a tenth of what you’d pay in Manhattan — and in New York, they don’t even have a Dream Cruise. Staff writers Ian Thibodeau and Lauren Abdel-Razzaq contributed.<doc-sep>
Automotive freak flags were flying at this year's Woodward Dream Cruise with the annual parade of oddities sprinkled among the Motor City's finest. Dave Fawcett of Independence, Kentucky, came to the Dream Cruise for the first time this year with his 1961 International Scout. It's usually a brand for farm equipment and tractors, but Fawcett has held onto this gem of a truck for nearly 30 years, waiting for the right time to restore it. The unique and boxy red ride is a tribute to his father, who he calls "the best man in the world." Over at the Performance Park show in Royal Oak, a 1970s racecar opens like the jaws of an alligator to welcome the driver. The "Color Me Gone" 1977 Monza Funny Car, owned by Jim Matuszak of Caro, Michigan, is a restored "flopper." Matuszak doesn't race the car — it's restored exactly to its 1977 specs, so it's missing some safety requirements for today's track — but he revved the engine for the crowd every hour or so during the Cruise. Then there's the "Ratillac," a matte black 1988 Cadillac Brome customized by Alan Cleland of Warren. He found the old Caddy on Craigslist a year ago and spent the last 12 months customizing it from top to bottom. From the black paint job to the skeletons in the front seat, Cleland has only one explanation for his customization: “I just wanted something kinda different,” he said. At the other end of the spectrum is Pat Wiegand's 1955 Ford Thunderbird. The Macomb Township resident refers to it as “the Barbie car.” “It’s a color that was in my poodle-skirt,” she said. "A lot of attention for the pink car. I let the little girls sit in it. They get dragged here and don’t want to come, but then they see it and they get excited." Every aspect of the '55 T-Bird is sweet as candy. Her license plate says QT 1955, Barbie is on the dash, a Lamb Chop puppet is on the gear shifter and a few other pink stuffed animals are arrayed in the car. Last but not least is a 1992 Michigan State Police Service Package Mustang, parked Saturday in Mustang Alley in Ferndale. Owned by Ann and Mike Patterson, the car was in service from 1992-1997. It has a 5.0-liter, 225-horsepower engine mates to a four-speed automatic transmission. Staff writers Ian Thibodeau and Lauren Abdel-Razzaq contributed. [email protected] Twitter: @NoraNaughton