thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Cosmetology students, hairstylists describe a race divide

NEW YORK - After repeatedly being denied service by high-end salons because her hair was perceived as “ too difficult ” to style , Kanessa Alexander took an unusual step .
She opened a shop of her own in a predominantly white Boston neighbourhood with four Black stylists serving all hair textures .
“ I wanted to be someplace where we existed but were not represented , ” the African American cosmetologist said of her decision five years ago to set up Perfect 10 in West Roxbury , near where she grew up .
“ So many salons were just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racial reckoning unfolds around the globe , Alexander and more than a dozen other people of colour in the beauty industry trace such bias and discrimination in mostly white salons to the sidelining of formal education on tightly curled , coiled or kinky hair .
The lack of experience , or interest , is particularly acute when it comes to hair worn naturally , a growing trend among African American women who want to celebrate both personal identity and Black culture .
“ They didn ’ t learn Black hair .
They ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Alexander said .
“ Nobody will come in here and hear that their hair is too difficult.
” About 25 miles from Alexander ’ s salon , in mostly white Westborough , Massachusetts , Damalyn Matthews knows the struggle firsthand .
Matthews , who is white and Native American , has three children with her African American husband .
She recently sent her two oldest , ages 7 and 5 , to her regular salon , a Supercuts , with her 21-year-old niece , who is white .
A white stylist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should have been disclosed when the appointments were made because : “ We don ’ t cut Black people ’ s hair here , ” Matthews said .
While service wasn ’ t denied , the remark and others like it made by the stylist led to her termination and an apology from the salon .
“ The part that bothered me the most is there were two other hairstylists standing there .
Neither one of them said anything , nor reported it , ” Matthews said .
“ It ’ s heartbreaking.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from outright refusals to botched treatments and cuts by stylists who don ’ t know what they ’ re doing but are reluctant to say so , fearing legal retribution or out of embarrassment or guilt .
Some cosmetology schools include educators with experience on a range of textured hair , but they ’ re often stymied by other priorities .
While textbooks include pages on all hair types , students said highly textured hair is often barely mentioned during training .
Mannequins of colour are not routine .
It ’ s possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process conducted by the states , without ever touching a Black head .
Kayla Naclerio , 23 , of Albuquerque , New Mexico , is enrolled in beauty school near her home .
She plans to graduate in September .
“ They don ’ t really tend to teach ethnic hair , ” said Naclerio , who is white .
“ I would like to learn how to do Black hair .
I don ’ t really see why there seems to be such a big lack of education on Black hair.
’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her own mannequin of colour .
Tammy Jolivette , a Ph.D. candidate at Walden University , studies the psychological roots of biases against natural hair and how those biases affect communities of colour .
She ’ s also a Houston hairstylist who specializes in working with curly hair , particularly Black hair .
“ Cosmetology programs typically only teach styles and looks for people of European descent .
This serves as a tactic of segregation against African Americans .
If the salon stylists do not know how to do Black hair , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black people , ” Jolivette said .
Serving Black people in the beauty business has become increasingly lucrative .
In 2018 , the Black hair care industry raked in an estimated $ 2.51 billion as Black consumers have progressively made the switch from general products to those that cater specifically to them .
Black women spend nine times more on ethnic-targeted beauty and grooming products than the average for all consumers in the hair sector , according to Nielsen .
Kari Williams in Los Angeles has a seat on the California Board of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and licenses in the state .
A licensed barber , cosmetologist and salon owner , she specializes in natural hair care .
Williams said few states have licensing and certifications for natural hair , braiding , locing and twisting .
Most beauty schools focus on salon safety and sanitation , and the use of heat styling tools and chemicals for straightening , coloring , perming and relaxing .
“ When you have a stylist going through 1,100 hours of training , when it comes to Black hair , they ’ re learning how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
” They ’ re not learning how to maintain and style Black hair in its natural state.
” In Fort Lauderdale , Florida , 30-year-old Britany Bain graduated in 2014 from Aveda Institute South Florida , one of more than 60 independently owned and run Aveda schools in the U.S. considered among the top in the industry .
“ The education for textured hair was just completely zero , ” said Bain , who is Black .
“ Whenever we touched on textured hair as a topic it was just like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come from the natural hair world .
It got to the point where I was saying , ` No , we need to use this , or can I bring this in ?
’ It was always ` No , what we teach you here is the standard and you just use what we teach you to figure it out when you get into the world.
’ This is supposed to be the Harvard of cosmetology.
“ Kevin Molin , vice-president of Aveda Global Education for Aveda Corp. , said the company released @ @ @ @ @ @ @ styling of curly and coily hair in 2012 .
A substantial expansion is launching next month , he said , the “ start of our long-term commitment to create an Aveda experience that is fully inclusive.
” Students at Paul Mitchell Schools , another top name in cosmetology education , have made similar complaints .
The schools , most also independently owned , recently announced initiatives aimed at including “ all hair types as standard learning , not specialized.
” One of the changes is getting practice dolls with a wider range of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ambassador John Mosley , a Black barber in Dallas .
“ I feel their pain , and I understand where they ’ re coming from , ” he said of dissatisfied students , including several of colour who took to KSNV-TV in Las Vegas to object .
Brittany Johnson is the senior content manager for Mayvenn , a company that connects Black hairstylists and clients .
She earned her cosmetology license in California in 2010 after attending beauty school in San Jose .
“ All the mannequins had names .
The ones that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Mia .
The one male mannequin was named Jake .
The only Black mannequin there , they labeled her Overly Curly .
It was the only one there that didn ’ t have a name , ” she said .
When it came time to work on live clients , those of colour were sent to the Black students , Johnson said .
“ On one hand , I wanted to service these clients because I wanted them to feel comfortable and not have someone who was going to struggle with their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand , I ’ m like , ` Well all these other students should learn , too , ’ ” she said .
In the Paul Mitchell curriculum , Mosley said , hair is broken down as “ straight , wavy , curly and extra curly , ” along with “ fine , medium and coarse.
” Extra curly , he said , can cover a broad range of textures and curl patterns .
“ I think it is , ” Mosley said .
“ Hair is hair , not a skin tone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changes to be able to instruct on more of it.
” A note on AP style on Black and white : https : //apnews.com/afs : Content:9105661462


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Trump again pushes unproven drug as COVID-19 treatment

WASHINGTON - A week after appearing to project a more serious tone about the coronaviru s , President Donald Trump is back to pushing unproven claims that an anti-malaria drug is an effective treatment and challenging the credibility of the nation ’ s leading infectious disease expert .
Dr. Anthony Fauci pushed back Tuesday , saying he will keep doing his job .
Numerous studies , meanwhile , have shown that the drug , hydroxychloroquine , is not an effective treatment for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
And the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently withdrew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s use as a emergency treatment for COVID-19 .
Yet overnight , after returning from a trip to North Carolina where he promoted efforts to develop a COVID-19 vaccine , Trump retweeted a series of tweets advocating for hydroxychloroquine .
The president also shared a post from the Twitter account for a podcast hosted by Steve Bannon , a former top White House adviser to Trump , accusing Fauci of misleading the public over hydroxychloroquine .
Fauci , a leading member of the White House coronavirus task force , pushed back Tuesday during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Good Morning America.
” “ I go along with the FDA , ” said Fauci , the longtime director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
“ The overwhelming prevailing clinical trials that have looked at the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine have indicated that it is not effective in coronavirus disease.
” It ’ s not the first time Fauci has come under attack from Trump and those close to him .
The president ’ s top trade adviser , Peter Navarro , who has clashed with Fauci over hydroxychloroquine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doctor that was published by USA Today .
The newspaper later said the opinion piece did not meet its standards .
In recent nationally televised interviews , Trump himself has described Fauci as “ a bit of an alarmist ” and accused him of making “ mistakes ” in his coronavirus guidance to the American people .
Asked if he can continue to do his job when Trump continues to publicly question his credibility , Fauci said Tuesday he ’ ll press ahead “ no matter what “ because of the stakes involved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I don ’ t even read them , so I don ’ t really want to go there , ” Fauci said .
“ I just will continue to do my job no matter what comes out because I think it ’ s very important .
We ’ re in the middle of a crisis with regard to an epidemic , a pandemic .
This is what I do .
This is what I ’ ve been trained for my entire professional life and I ’ ll continue to do it.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ misleading the public , Fauci said : “ I have not been misleading the American public under any circumstances .
”

Darlene Superville - The Associated Press

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thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Iran fires missile at mock aircraft carrier amid US tensions

TEHRAN , Iran - Iran ’ s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard fired a missile from a helicopter targeting a replica aircraft carrier in the strategic Strait of Hormuz , state television reported on Tuesday , an exercise aimed at threatening the U.S. amid tensions between Tehran and Washington .
The drill , in a waterway through which 20 % of all traded oil passes , underlines the lingering threat of military conflict between Iran and the U.S. after last summer saw a series of incidents targeting oil tankers in the region .
In January , a U.S. drone strike killed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responded by firing ballistic missiles targeting American forces in Iraq .
While the coronavirus pandemic has engulfed both Iran and the U.S. for months , there have been increasing signs of a confrontation as America argues to extend a yearslong U.N. weapons embargo on Tehran that is due to expire in October .
A recent incident over Syria involving an American jet fighter approaching an Iranian passenger plane also has renewed tensions .
Iranian commandos fast-roped down from a helicopter onto the replica in the footage aired Tuesday from the exercise called “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fast boats encircling the mock-up , kicking up white waves in their wake .
Iranian troops also fired anti-aircraft batteries at a drone target in the exercise from a location that state television described as being near the port city of Bandar Abbas .
Troops also fired missiles launched from trucks on land and fast boats at sea , as well as shoulder-fired missiles .
The Guard will use “ long-range ballistic missiles with the ability to hit far-reaching aggressor floating targets ” during the drill , said Abbas Nilforoushan , the Guard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to Guard website sepahnews.com .
That suggests the drill could see a repeat of what happened in 2015 , when the Guard mock-sunk a replica .
It wasn ’ t immediately clear if all the footage was from Tuesday , as one overhead surveillance image that appeared to be shot by a drone bore Monday ’ s date .
The exercise had been expected as satellite photos released Monday showed the fake carrier being moved into place by a tugboat .
“ Our policies to protect the vital interests of the dear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sense that we will not invade any country from the beginning , but we are completely aggressive in tactics and operations , “ Gen. Hossein Salami , the head of the Guard , was quoted as saying .
“ What was shown today at this exercise at the level of aerospace and naval forces was all offensive.
” State TV footage also showed Guard scuba forces underwater , followed by a cutaway to a blast hole just above the waterline on the replica carrier .
That appeared to be a not-so-subtle reminder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ planted limpet mines on passing oil tankers near the strait , which exploded on the vessels in the same area .
Iran has repeatedly denied the actions , though footage captured by the American military showed Guard members remove an unexploded mine from one vessel .
The replica used in the drill resembles the Nimitz-class carriers that the U.S. Navy routinely sails into the Persian Gulf from the Strait of Hormuz , the narrow mouth of the waterway .
The USS Nimitz , the namesake of the class , just entered Mideast waters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , likely to replace the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Arabian Sea .
It remains unclear when or if the Nimitz will pass through the Strait of Hormuz or not during its time in the Mideast .
The USS Abraham Lincoln , deployed last year as tensions initially spiked , spent months in the Arabian Sea before heading through the strait .
The Eisenhower came through the strait early last week .
To Iran , which shares the strait with Oman , the American naval presence is akin to Iranian forces sailing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coast of Florida .
But the U.S. Navy stresses the strait is an international waterway crucial to global shipping and energy supplies .
Even as America now relies less on Mideast oil , a major disruption in the region could see prices rapidly rise .
Cmdr .
Rebecca Rebarich , a spokeswoman for the U.S. Navy ’ s Bahrain-based 5th Fleet that patrols the Mideast , said officials were aware of the Iranian exercise involving “ a vessel similar to a motionless aircraft carrier.
” “ The U.S. Navy conducts defensive exercises with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of freedom of navigation whereas Iran conducts offensive exercises , attempting to intimidate and coerce , ” Rebarich told The Associated Press .
“ While we are always watchful of this type of irresponsible and reckless behaviour by Iran in the vicinity of busy international waterways , this exercise has not disrupted coalition operations in the area nor had any impacts to the free flow of commerce in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters , ” she added .
Gambrell reported from Dubai , United Arab Emirates .
Associated Press journalist Mohammad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to this report .

Amir Vahdat And Jon Gambrell - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Fauci says Marlins’ virus outbreak could endanger MLB season

MIAMI - The Miami Marlins ’ coronavirus outbreak could endanger the Major League Baseball season , Dr. Anthony Fauci said Tuesday , although he doesn ’ t believe games needs to stop now .
More than a dozen Marlins players and staff members tested positive for COVID-19 , stranding the team in Philadelphia and raising anew questions about MLB ’ s attempts to conduct a season .
“ This could put it in danger , ” said Fauci , the nation ’ s top infectious disease expert .
“ I don ’ t believe they need to stop , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see what happens with other teams on a day-by-day basis.
” “ Major League Baseball — the players , the owners , the managers — have put a lot of effort into getting together and putting protocols that we feel would work , ” Fauci said .
“ It ’ s very unfortunate what happened with the Miami ( Marlins ) .
” Their outbreak continued to disrupt Major League Baseball ’ s schedule Tuesday , the sixth day of the pandemic-delayed season , with the Marlins ’ home game against Baltimore postponed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was also called off , as was the Yankees ’ series opener Monday at Philadelphia , where New York would have been in the same clubhouse the Marlins used last weekend .
Nine Marlins players on the 30-man roster , two taxi squad players and two staff members tested positive , a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press , speaking on condition of anonymity because the results hadn ’ t been publicly disclosed .
“ Obviously , we don ’ t want any player to get exposed .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commissioner Rob Manfred said on the MLB Network .
“ But I don ’ t see it as a nightmare .
... We think we can keep people safe and continue to play.
” The Orioles , who made a trip to Miami without playing a game , are scheduled to host the Marlins in a two-game series starting Wednesday .
“ If the testing results are acceptable , the Marlins will resume play in Baltimore on Wednesday against the Orioles , ” Manfred said .
Meanwhile , Chicago White Sox manager Rick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team after experiencing a “ slight cough and nasal congestion , ” general manager Rick Hahn said .
Tests were planned .
The Marlins ’ outbreak was the talk of baseball , and Washington Nationals manager Dave Martinez choked on his words as he discussed the situation .
Martinez missed time last season because of a heart condition , and the Nationals are scheduled to play in Miami this weekend .
“ I ’ m going to be honest with you : I ’ m scared , ” Martinez said .
“ My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight to a 12 .
I mean this thing really hits home now .
...
I got guys in our clubhouse that are really concerned , as well.
” The Marlins placed infielder Garrett Cooper , outfielder Harold Ramírez and right-hander José Ureña on the injured list .
They claimed right-hander Justin Shafer and left-hander Josh Smith off waivers from Cincinnati , and will likely rely heavily on reinforcements from their training camp in Jupiter , Florida .
Manfred said there are factors that would force MLB to alter plans .
“ A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rendered it completely non-competitive would be an issue that we would have to address and have to think about making a change , ” he said .
“ Whether that was shutting down a part of the season , the whole season , that depends on the circumstances .
Same thing with respect to league-wide .
You get to a certain point league-wide where it does become a health threat , and we certainly would shut down at that point.
” MLB and the union held talks Monday after aspects of the protocols @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s first four days , such as the prohibitions on high-fives and other physical celebrations .
The NBA and NHL plan to resume their seasons in bubble environments , with basketball at Lake Buena Vista , Florida , and hockey at Edmonton , Alberta , and Toronto .
“ The NBA and the NHL have an advantage : smaller numbers of players , shorter period of time , ” Manfred said .
“ I understand why they did what they did .
I ’ m just not sure it was workable for us.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ create a bubble environment as training camps open for the coming season .
“ It might be that they have to go in a bubble , ” Fauci said , “ but I think they ’ re conscientious enough and want to protect their players and protect the personnel that they will do the right thing.
” Associated Press writers Ronald Blum in New York and Howard Fendrich and Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Technology infuses ancient hajj rites amid global pandemic

DUBAI , United Arab Emirates - The vast white marble floors surrounding Islam ’ s holiest site , the cube-shaped Kaaba in Mecca , would normally be packed with hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the world the day before the hajj .
On Tuesday , however , only a few officials and workers putting last minute preparations in place were seen at the Grand Mosque housing the Kaaba .
In place of the 2.5 million pilgrims who preformed the hajj last year , only a very limited number of faithful — anywhere from 1,000 to 10,000 — are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is largely a symbolic pilgrimage amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The select few approved for this year ’ s hajj have been tested for the virus and are self-isolating in hotel rooms in Mecca , where they will experience an ancient pilgrimage — albeit tailored this year for a modern-day global pandemic .
Amr Al-Maddah , the chief planning officer at the Ministry of Hajj , is helping incorporate the latest technology into the pilgrimage such as thermal scanners and electronic ID cards .
“ Right now , technology is our black horse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said al-Maddah , an electronics engineer with a Ph.D. in robotics and artificial intelligence .
“ We are taking every step possible to make sure that this hajj will end with zero cases of COVID-19 and also with zero deaths in our total hajj numbers , ” he told The Associated Press .
Before pilgrims could even enter Mecca , they were given wristbands by the Saudi health ministry to monitor their movements and ensure the mandatory quarantine was observed .
Thermal scanners are being used across the holy sites to monitor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is assigned to a group of around 20 others .
A group leader will guide them throughout the hajj to each destination at a specified time , to avoid crowding in places like the Grand Mosque , where Muslims circle the Kaaba and follow a path travelled by the Prophet Abraham ’ s wife , Hagar , who Muslims believe ran between two hills searching for water for her dying son .
While on Mount Arafat , where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon nearly 1,400 years ago and where pilgrims will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the pilgrims will be wearing high-tech ID cards that connect to an application on their phones .
The card and app allows the government to easily monitor the pilgrims , and gives them a way to reach out to their group leader and make special meal requests .
The card stores the pilgrims ’ personal information , health status , residence and other hajj-related details .
In the future , al-Maddah said the cards will be fitted with a location tracker to follow individual pilgrims ’ movements .
The tracker will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be used as a pay card in place of cash .
Pilgrims have also been given special attire to wear during the hajj laced with silver nano technology that helps kill bacteria and makes clothes water resistant .
Al-Maddah said the measure is a precaution , “ even if it can affect almost nothing “ or has a minimal chance of “ improving health conditions.
” It ’ s all part of the special treatment pilgrims are receiving this year .
Other perks — all meals , hotel accommodation , transportation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saudi government .
Typically , the hajj can cost thousands of dollars for pilgrims who save for a lifetime for the journey .
This year marks the first time in nearly a century of Saudi rule over Mecca that people from outside the kingdom will not take part in the five-day hajj , which is a once in a lifetime requirement of Muslims .
Al-Maddah , who sits on the hajj planning committee , said allowing people to enter Saudi Arabia from abroad would have posed a global health risk .
Two-thirds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Saudi Arabia from among the 160 different nationalities that would have normally been represented at the hajj .
The other one-third are Saudi security personnel and medical staff .
All pilgrims had to be between the ages of 20 and 50 with no terminal illnesses and showing no symptoms of the coronavirus .
Each year , the hajj poses a massive logistical challenge for Saudi authorities .
As recently as 2015 , a stampede and a crush killed more than 2,400 people .
Crowd control measures require the use of thousands of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movements of the more than 2.5 million people densely packed into narrow streets , walkways and paths of Mecca and Mina .
Facial recognition technology and other high-tech security systems have to be advanced enough to decipher between pilgrims , dressed in nearly identical terry white cloth garments .
“ For us , safety comes first , ” al-Maddah said .
“ We are employing technology to make sure that these services and these precautions are met and delivered in the highest standard .
”


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Australian park owner to plead guilty after 4 die on ride

BRISBANE , Australia - The company that owns an Australian theme park where four people died on a river rapids ride will plead guilty to charges stemming from the 2016 tragedy , a lawyer said on Wednesday .
Two men and two women died in Dreamworld park on Queensland state ’ s Gold Coast when their raft flipped on the Thunder River Rapids ride .
Ardent Leisure Group has been charged under workplace safety laws with failing to comply with its health and safety duty and exposing individuals to a risk of serious injury or death .
But Dreamworld executives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ avoided individual prosecution .
Ardent ’ s lawyer Bruce Hodgkinson told a Gold Coast court on Wednesday that the Sydney-based company , which also owns assets in the United States and New Zealand , will plead guilty to all three charges .
Each charge carried a potential maximum fine of 1.5 million Australian dollars ( $ 1.1 million ) .
A coroner ’ s report that was referred to prosecutors cited a “ systemic failure ” in safety at Dreamworld with “ frighteningly unsophisticated ” procedures and a failure to provide the training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk .
It said no thorough engineering risk assessment had been done on the Thunder River Rapids ride in the 30 years it was open to the public .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Asia Today: China, South Korea see upticks in virus cases

BEIJING - China reported more than 100 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday as the country continues to battle an outbreak in Xinjiang .
The 101 new cases was China ’ s highest daily increase in weeks .
The northwestern region of Xinjiang accounted for 89 , with another eight in the northeastern province of Liaoning and one in Beijing .
Another three cases were brought from outside the country by returning Chinese citizens .
Outside of Xinjiang , the virus has been largely contained in mainland China with the death toll from COVID-19 remaining at 4,634 among 84,060 cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the central city of Wuhan late last year .
Hospitals are treating 482 people for the disease , with another 274 in isolation while being monitored for showing signs of infection or for having tested positive for the virus without displaying symptoms .
Xinjiang ’ s outbreak has centred on the region ’ s capital and largest city of Urumqi , where authorities have isolated some communities , restricted public transport and ordered widespread testing .
In other developments around the Asia-Pacific region : — South Korea reported 48 additional cases , maintaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday the additional figures took the country ’ s total to 14,251 with 300 deaths .
Fourteen of the new patients were locally infected while the rest 34 came from overseas .
South Korea has been reporting roughly 20-60 new cases every day since it eased its strict social distancing rules in early May .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--States resist mask rules as Midwest virus uptick stirs alarm

JACKSON , Miss .
- The baseball season descended deeper into crisis Tuesday , states like Mississippi and South Carolina cast about for more hospital beds , and governors in some of the hardest-hit places staunchly resisted calls to require masks , despite confirmed cases of the coronavirus soaring .
Major League Baseball suspended the Miami Marlins ’ season through Sunday because of an outbreak that has spread to at least 15 of the team ’ s players , and a series of games this week between the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies was called off as a precaution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas are in dire condition , and the virus also has been spreading farther north in recent days , causing alarm among public health officials who fear states are not doing enough to avoid catastrophic outbreaks like those in the Sun Belt .
“ We are watching very carefully California , Arizona , Texas , and most of Florida , “ President Donald Trump said at a news conference .
“ It ’ s starting to head down to the right direction.
” Florida , however , reported another one-day high for COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded 104 , and Arkansas had a daily record of 20 .
While the White House has begun to feel cautiously optimistic that the resurgence has begun to stabilize in parts of the Southwest , fears are growing about the potential for a significant uptick in the Midwest , including Minnesota , Wisconsin , Ohio , Indiana and Colorado , according to a Trump administration official who wasn ’ t authorized to publicly discuss private conversations .
It ’ s fueled largely by a rise in cases among young adults , who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs again .
Over the past two weeks , Wisconsin ’ s rolling average number of new confirmed cases has increased by 31 % .
Minnesota reported its largest one-day case count Sunday , with more than 860 cases .
The virus is blamed for over 4.3 million confirmed infections and about 150,000 deaths in the U.S. , according to the tally kept by Johns Hopkins University .
Globally , more than 16.5 million people have been infected , and more than 655,000 have died .
The numbers are thought to be higher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governors in Tennessee , Mississippi , Missouri and South Carolina have all resisted calls to close bars and gyms or issue statewide mask requirements , though local officials have imposed some of their own restrictions .
“ My reaction is that I ’ m disturbed .
I ’ m disturbed by it , ” said Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation ’ s top infectious-diseases expert .
Those two efforts and other best practices would help “ prevent the resurgence that we ’ ve seen in some of the other Southern states.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s biggest hospitals had no open intensive care beds as of Monday , and officials are considering opening pop-up facilities .
More than 24 % of coronavirus tests have come back positive in Mississippi over the past week , the highest rate in the nation and triple the national average .
Republican Gov .
Tate Reeves has gone so far as to argue that because mask-wearing has become political , a statewide mandate could actually discourage people from covering their faces .
Instead , he is requiring masks only in the most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general manager of Fondren Fitness in Jackson , said a statewide requirement would be “ the right thing to do.
” “ I know it ’ s a hot topic , but if we can all just wear masks and really do right for a month , it would help a lot to try and slow this down in Mississippi , ” he said .
“ If we don ’ t , it ’ s not going to slow down.
” In Missouri , larger cities are growing rattled by a spike in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It reported another daily record in cases , with nearly 1,800 .
St. Louis is curtailing bar hours and reducing restaurant seating capacity starting Friday , and Kansas City may follow suit .
GOP Gov .
Mike Parson has repeatedly refused to enact a statewide order requiring masks , citing relatively few cases in most of the state compared with hot spots in bigger cities .
Parson said last month that he didn ’ t believe the governor has personal responsibility for any virus , and compared the illness that has killed over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flu .
He said no one would expect him to take responsibility if someone were involved in an accident on a Missouri road .
The uncertainty has put restaurant owners in a difficult position .
Brian Schmitz , co-owner of The Bellwether and the Polite Society in St. Louis , closed the two restaurants temporarily after a guest expressed concerns Sunday that another diner recently made a social media post about testing positive for COVID-19 .
Schmitz said the buildings have been deep-cleaned and he ’ s testing staff before reopening , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ the stakes are higher than money , ” he said .
“ Money hurts , don ’ t get me wrong .
But we all work to live , not the other way around , and this puts that in stark contrast.
” In Tennessee , the situation is precarious enough that Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House coronavirus task force travelled to Nashville to implore leaders to close bars and residents to wear masks .
But Republican Gov .
Bill Lee has vowed he won ’ t shut down the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nearly 1,100 people were hospitalized with confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Tennessee , the highest seen there in the past two weeks .
Intensive-care units are running at 86 % capacity .
Nearly 70 % of the state has issued some sort of mask mandate .
However , enforcement has varied , with some officials hesitating to issue citations .
In Nashville , the city ’ s famous honky tonks have seen large crowds despite a strict 10 p.m. curfew that began last week .
Nursing homes in more than 70 counties have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In Oklahoma , Gov .
Kevin Stitt returned to his office Monday after two weeks of isolating at home following a positive coronavirus test .
It came on the same day the state reported over 1,400 new confirmed cases — the second consecutive day of record highs .
Hospitals looked to increase capacity .
The Regional Medical Center in Orangeburg , South Carolina , began setting up tents outside for recovering patients .
“ We saw an uptick , and we wanted to be ahead of it , ” said Dr. John Samies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical staff .
In Georgia , 88 % of critical care beds were taken Tuesday , tying the highest level since the pandemic began , though not all critical care patients have COVID-19 .
Texas Gov .
Greg Abbott worried that the virus could spread even further after Hurricane Hanna over the weekend forced people to gather together indoors .
The storm pounded the Rio Grande Valley , where hospitals have been overwhelmed .
“ We ’ re in a dire situation , ” Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villarreal said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , countless more lives will be lost.
” In Europe , rising infections in Spain and other countries are causing alarm , weeks after nations reopened borders to revive tourism .
“ Let ’ s be absolutely clear about what ’ s happening in Europe , amongst some of our European friends , ” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said .
“ I ’ m afraid you are starting to see in some places the signs of a second wave of the pandemic.
” Forliti reported from Minneapolis , and Hollingsworth from Mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lemire in Washington contributed .

Amy Forliti, Leah Willingham And Heather Hollingsworth - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Experts worry about errors if census schedule is sped up

ORLANDO , Fla. - After asking for coronavirus-related deadline extensions in April , the Trump administration now appears to be abandoning that request by asking Congress for extra funding to wrap up the 2020 census “ as quickly , and safely as possible “ in a move that could help ensure the number-crunching for redrawing congressional districts takes place on President Donald Trump ’ s watch .
Census Bureau officials had warned as recently as early July that it was already too late to have the numbers ready without an extension .
And outside experts predicted Tuesday that speeding up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head count that misses people in hard-to-count minority communities .
“ It would be like giving an expectant mother in the early stages of pregnancy a lot of money to have the baby in 4.5 months , “ said John Thompson , a former Census Bureau director in the Obama administration .
The Census Bureau is in the middle of the 2020 census , and some of the bureau ’ s 500,000 door-knockers started heading out this month to households that haven ’ t yet answered the questionnaire .
With the new coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration asked Congress to extend the deadlines required for the U.S. Census Bureau to turn in the head count data used for redrawing congressional district and legislative districts .
The Census Bureau also postponed finishing field operations for the 2020 census from the end of July to the end of October .
The Democratic-controlled House agreed to the extensions as part of coronavirus-relief legislation , but the Republican-controlled Senate has yet to do so .
Senate Republicans on Monday instead proposed an additional $ 448 million in funding for the 2020 census @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding would allow for additional hiring , staffing resources , and replenished contingency funding to provide schedule flexibility as the Census Bureau conducts its largest field operation , nonresponse followup , “ the Census Bureau said Monday on its website .
“ This flexibility is critical to helping the Census Bureau operate in the midst of unprecedented public health crisis , including trying to wrap up field data collection as quickly , and safely as possible , while ensuring a complete and accurate count .
“ When asked about the status of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Majority Leader Mitch McConnell referred to existing policy for the census timeline and said it had nothing further to add .
Historically , the Census Bureau is required to turn over numbers for apportionment , the process of divvying up congressional seats , by Dec. 31 , and the numbers used for redrawing legislative districts by March 30 .
The deadline extensions would push back the apportionment deadline to April 30 and the redistricting deadline for state and local districts to July 31 .
If the deadline extension for the apportionment numbers is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a chance the final months of the data-crunching would take place under a new administration if presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden defeats Trump , a Republican , in the November election .
Wary of what they see as Trump ’ s attempts to politicize the 2020 census , House Democrats say Senate Republicans should approve the request for deadline extensions .
“ Otherwise , American taxpayers would be forced to pay for the most expensive and potentially least accurate census in our nation ’ s history , “ said U.S. Rep. Carolyn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Reform .
Earlier this month , House Democrats asked U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to withdraw two appointees from top positions at the U.S. Census Bureau , claiming they represented the latest effort by the Trump administration to politicize the 2020 census .
Then last week , Trump issued a memorandum seeking to exclude people in the country illegally from being included during the process for redrawing congressional districts .
Civil rights group have filed multiple lawsuits challenging the memorandum as unconstitutional and an attempt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immigrants of colour .
Two more lawsuits were filed Tuesday , including one by California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and several California cities , which said California stood to lose a congressional seat if Trump ’ s order succeeds .
“ The timing of the executive memorandum issued last week coupled with what now appears to be abandonment of the request to push back the reporting deadlines clearly suggests that the White House wants to ensure that the president receives the numbers for apportionment while he is still in office .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ said Terri Ann Lowenthal , a census expert who worked on census issues as a congressional aide .
More than 62 % of households had responded to the census as of Sunday , leaving about 55 million households that will require visits by census takers .
A Pew Research Center survey taken in June highlights the difficulties already facing census takers , with 40 % of adults who say they have not yet responded to the census answering that they wouldn ’ t be willing to open their door for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday that it will start sending out emails to residents in neighbourhoods with low response rates , encouraging them to fill out the questionnaire .
Talking to reporters at the beginning of the month , Al Fontenot , the bureau ’ s associate director for decennial programs , said the bureau was “ past the window of being able to get those counts “ by the end of the year .
Kenneth Prewitt , who served as a Census Bureau director in the Clinton administration , said an accelerated census in the middle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explained politically.
“ “ I believe the odds of being able to produce the census between now and the end of the year is extremely low .
COVID is in charge .
The Census Bureau is not in charge , “ Prewitt said .
“ To finish the census by the end of the year , COVID has got to go away , and it ’ s not.
” AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro in Washington contributed to this report .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Kansas agency balks at releasing records for slain child

BELLE PLAINE , Kan. - Kansas ’ child welfare agency balked at releasing records about a 3-year-old girl whose battered body was found this month , despite a 2018 law that aimed to make such documents more transparent .
That law says Kansas Department for Children and Families ’ documents are public records in the event child abuse or neglect results in a child fatality or near fatality .
However , the agency declined to release to The Associated Press records pertaining to Olivia Ann Jansen , saying it is still investigating whether Olivia ’ s death was a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charged Olivia ’ s father and his girlfriend with murder .
“ Much to my dismay DCF continues to handle protective services as a confidential undertaking and it shouldn ’ t be , “ said state Rep. John Carmichael , a Wichita Democrat .
“ The safety of our children is something all Kansans are entitled to know details and , if there has been malfeasance on the DCF , people need to know that.
” Olivia ’ s remains were found in a shallow grave on July 10 , after her father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported the Kansas City , Kansas , girl missing .
According to a probable cause affidavit , Olivia ’ s body was covered with bruises and she died of a brain bleed .
The girl ’ s grandparents said they had raised concerns about her safety with child protective services .
The AP filed a request with the Department of Children and Families on July 13 seeking copies of any records concerning reports of alleged abuse or neglect about the girl .
The agency told the AP in a July 27 email that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public because it has not completed its investigation of whether Olivia died as a result of child abuse or neglect .
Ron Keefover , president of the Kansas Sunshine Coalition for Open Government , called the refusal to release the records based on the agency ’ s own ongoing investigation “ a shameful attempt to dodge public scrutiny.
” “ Clearly , law enforcement , the district attorney , and a judge who signed the warrant in the court case have made a determination of child abuse , ” Keefover said .
Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday that the agency is working with law enforcement to investigate .
Deines said the Wyandotte County district attorney ’ s office just recently released redacted affidavits that the child welfare agency will use to complete its investigation and “ render a finding in the very near future.
” If the agency makes a finding substantiating that Olivia ’ s death was the result of child abuse or neglect , the agency will release a summary and begin the process for the records release , he said .
“ The intent ( of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as reasonably possible release that information so that we could do our best as a state to try to put in place procedures to prevent future cases of abuse and neglect , ” said state Rep. Fred Patton , of Topeka , the Republican chairman of the House Judiciary Committee .
Carmichael , who also serves on the judiciary committee , said it appears the agency is “ stonewalling once again ” and lawmakers can try next year to impose more strict legislation .
The Legislature had passed the open records law after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It sounds like now we have a new bag of tricks and that even though law enforcement has brought charges the agency claims it has not completed its investigation , ” Carmichael said .
“ We thought we had solved the problem , but obviously we haven ’ t , ” he said .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Trump administration won’t accept new DACA applications

CHICAGO - The Trump administration said Tuesday that it will reject new applications and shorten renewal periods for an Obama-era program that shields young people from deportation , taking a defiant stance after the U.S. Supreme Court refused to let it be scrapped completely .
The move , detailed in a memo from Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf , ended a month of uncertainty about how the administration would respond to its Supreme Court defeat in an election year that has President Donald Trump looking for ways to energize his base .
Wolf said the administration may try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program again , casting it as a law enforcement issue that could contribute to illegal immigration .
He said the federal government needs more time to consider next steps , presenting the measures as a temporary change .
“ DACA makes clear that , for certain large classes of individuals , DHS will at least tolerate , if not affirmatively sanction , their ongoing violation of the immigration laws , ” Wolf wrote in the memo .
About 650,000 people are part of DACA , which allows young immigrants who were brought to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and shields them from deportation .
Roughly 66,000 people meet age requirements to apply , according to the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute .
The government will deny all new applications , limit renewals to one year instead of two , and deny requests by DACA recipients to visit their home countries unless there are “ exceptional circumstances.
” Recipients may seek permission to return home for family events , such as funerals or weddings , and other reasons , though the Trump administration has generally denied them .
The Supreme Court ruled last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedures when he tried to end the program , but the justices kept a window open for him to try again .
The White House has been devising plans to make another push to end DACA , though it was not immediately clear whether he would make the politically sensitive move before November ’ s election .
Democratic rival Joe Biden wants to keep DACA unconditionally .
A federal judge in Maryland ruled earlier this month that the program should be restored to its original form , but the administration was mum until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new applications .
The White House anticipates legal challenges .
The administration ’ s monthlong silence had unnerved many DACA recipients and those who wanted to join .
U.S. District Judge Paul Grimm of Maryland , an appointee of President Barack Obama , has given the administration until the end of Friday to update the U.S .
Citizenship and Immigration Services ’ website and start adequately explaining why applications are rejected .
Legal experts were skeptical of the Trump administration ’ s authority to roll back parts of the program .
“ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling and a federal court ruling , ” said Shoba Sivaprasad Wadhia , an immigration law professor at Penn State Law in University Park , Pennsylvania .
“ It ’ s a lawless landscape that we are in.
” The Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition accused the administration of further marginalizing immigrants .
The American Business Immigration Coalition called it economically harmful .
And the American Civil Liberties Union vowed to continue its yearslong fight to prevent the program ’ s demise .
Laura Mendoza , a program manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joined DACA in 2013 and will have to renew next year .
She said the $ 495 annual renewal fee would be difficult for many to pay .
“ It ’ s infuriating that we continue to be the punching bag for the administration , ” she said of fellow DACA recipients .
“ The administration is slowly dismantling the program.
“ Wolf , the Homeland Security chief , acknowledged that the $ 495 renewal fee will be a burden on DACA recipients who will have to apply annually instead of every other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said the department would consider lowering the fee .
Trump has tried unsuccessfully to work with Congress on a broader immigration package that would couple DACA with tougher enforcement measures .
He has said lately that he would announce sweeping new steps on immigration , a promise he reiterated Tuesday .
“ We ’ re going to work with a lot of people on DACA , ” Trump told reporters .
“ And we ’ re also working on an immigration bill , a merit-based system , which is what I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump said he would make DACA recipients “ happy ” without saying how .
Top Democrats urged for a legislative solution that would allow for a pathway to U.S. citizenship .
“ With the presidential election just three months away , it ’ s clear the president will do everything possible to rally his supporters at the expense of Dreamers , ” according to a statement from U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein , the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee , referring to the name often used for DACA recipients .
“ They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the constant fear that DACA protections will be ripped away at any moment.
” Spagat reported from San Diego .
Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report .

Sophia Tareen And Elliot Spagat - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--High-ranking Chicago officer dies, apparently shot himself

CHICAGO - A high-ranking member of the Chicago Police Department who was promoted earlier this month was found dead Tuesday morning after he apparently shot himself in a station on the city ’ s West Side , authorities said .
An autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday at the Cook County Medical Examiner ’ s Office on the remains of Deputy Chief Dion Boyd .
If the autopsy confirms that the 57-year-old Boyd fatally shot himself , he would become at least the ninth member of the department to die by suicide in the last two years .
Police Superintendent David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boyd ’ s death .
But the department confirmed that it believes Boyd fatally shot himself , and Brown made sure to reach out to officers and plead with them to seek help if they need it .
“ There is no shame in reaching out for help , ” Brown said during a press briefing during which he announced Boyd ’ s death .
“ Please , officers , please , stay humble , stay human , stay safe and stay well.
” Boyd , who had been with the department for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deputy chief of criminal networks on July 15 , one of several promotions Brown has made .
During the course of his career , Boyd worked as an undercover officer in narcotics , homicide detective and internal affairs officer before moving into command ranks .
Boyd ’ s death is the latest blow to a police force that has seen more than its share of suicides .
In a 2017 report about the department ’ s policing practices , the US .
Justice Department reported that the suicide rate among officers in Chicago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average of 18.1 per 100,000 .
“ To every officer , we want you to know that you are deserving of help and healing , and no one needs to struggle alone , “ Mayor Lori Lightfoot wrote on Twitter while offering condolences to Boyd ’ s family .
” This City has a fundamental obligation to support each of you , and over the coming weeks , we will be taking steps to bolster our support network so that every first responder understands that help is available.
” Boyd ’ s body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office by ambulance in a procession that included a fleet of Chicago police vehicles to the medical examiner ’ s office , where dozens of officers had converged in a show of respect .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Technology infuses ancient hajj rites tailored for pandemic

DUBAI , United Arab Emirates - The vast , white-marble floors surrounding Islam ’ s holiest site , the cube-shaped Kaaba in Mecca , would normally be packed with hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the world the day before the hajj .
On Tuesday , however , only a few officials and workers putting last-minute preparations in place were seen at the Grand Mosque housing the Kaaba .
In place of the 2.5 million pilgrims who performed the hajj last year , only a very limited number of faithful — anywhere from 1,000 to 10,000 — are being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ largely a symbolic pilgrimage amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The select few approved for this year ’ s hajj have been tested for the virus and are self-isolating in hotel rooms in Mecca , where they will experience an ancient pilgrimage — albeit tailored this year for a modern-day pandemic .
Amr Al-Maddah , the chief planning officer at the Ministry of Hajj , is helping incorporate the latest technology into the pilgrimage such as thermal scanners and electronic ID cards .
“ Right now , technology is our black horse to developing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ al-Maddah , an electronics engineer with a Ph.D. in robotics and artificial intelligence .
“ We are taking every step possible to make sure that this hajj will end with zero cases of COVID-19 and also with zero deaths in our total hajj numbers , ” he told The Associated Press .
Before pilgrims could even enter Mecca , they were given wristbands by the Saudi health ministry to monitor their movements and ensure the mandatory quarantine was observed .
Thermal scanners are being used across the holy sites to monitor people ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a group of around 20 others .
A group leader will guide them throughout the hajj to each destination at a specified time , to avoid crowding in places like the Grand Mosque , where Muslims circle the Kaaba and follow a path travelled by the Prophet Abraham ’ s wife , Hagar , who Muslims believe ran between two hills searching for water for her dying son .
While on Mount Arafat , where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon nearly 1,400 years ago and where pilgrims will spend Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pilgrims will be wearing high-tech ID cards that connect to an application on their phones .
The card and app allows the government to easily monitor the pilgrims , and gives them a way to reach out to their group leader and make special meal requests .
The card stores the pilgrims ’ personal information , health status , residence and other hajj-related details .
In the future , al-Maddah said the cards will be fitted with a location tracker to follow individual pilgrims ’ movements .
The tracker will be managed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used as a pay card in place of cash .
Pilgrims have also been given special attire to wear during the hajj laced with silver nano technology that helps kill bacteria and makes clothes water resistant .
Al-Maddah said the measure is a precaution , “ even if it can affect almost nothing “ or has a minimal chance of “ improving health conditions.
” It ’ s all part of the special treatment pilgrims are receiving this year .
Other perks — all meals , hotel accommodation , transportation and health care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Typically , the hajj can cost thousands of dollars for pilgrims who save for a lifetime for the journey .
This year marks the first time in nearly a century of Saudi rule over Mecca that people from outside the kingdom will not take part in the five-day hajj , which is a once in a lifetime requirement of Muslims .
Al-Maddah , who sits on the hajj planning committee , said allowing people to enter Saudi Arabia from abroad would have posed a global health risk .
Two-thirds of pilgrims this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arabia from among the 160 different nationalities that would have normally been represented at the hajj .
The other one-third are Saudi security personnel and medical staff .
All pilgrims had to be between the ages of 20 and 50 with no terminal illnesses and showing no symptoms of the coronavirus .
Each year , the hajj poses a massive logistical challenge for Saudi authorities .
As recently as 2015 , a stampede and a crush killed more than 2,400 people .
Crowd control measures require the use of thousands of cameras and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the more than 2.5 million people densely packed into narrow streets , walkways and paths of Mecca and Mina .
Facial recognition technology and other high-tech security systems have to be advanced enough to decipher between pilgrims , dressed in nearly identical terry white cloth garments .
“ For us , safety comes first , ” al-Maddah said .
“ We are employing technology to make sure that these services and these precautions are met and delivered in the highest standard .
”


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Hundreds wait hours for coronavirus care in Ecuador capital

QUITO , Ecuador - Hundreds of people with breathing problems waited for hours in long lines in Ecuador ’ s capital Tuesday seeking medical attention and tests to determine if they were infected with the new coronavirus .
Hospitals and funeral homes have been overwhelmed for weeks in Quito , where city officials have reported 12,747 confirmed cases and 605 deaths so far in the pandemic .
The result is that long lines of people observing social distancing snake from hospitals , with waits of up to four hours before they can undergo clinical examinations and a quick coronavirus test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demand for hospital beds and beds that have been adapted to care for critical patients who require ventilation and intensive care beds , ” he said .
“ We are in a position that doesn ’ t compare in any way to what is happening in the rest of Latin America.
” Infections have escalated since authorities decided to loosen social isolation measures at the beginning of June and eased up even more earlier this month .
For Ecuador as a whole , 82,279 confirmed cases have been reported since the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was detected .
COVID-19 has killed 5,584 people , by the official tally , though experts say 3,353 more deaths probably were caused by the virus .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--‘Miracle’: 2 hurt when plane crashes in Houston neighbourhood

HOUSTON - Two people were injured when a single-engine airplane crashed in a residential area in Houston early Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ hit a tree and landed in a front yard shortly before 2 a.m. Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ two people were taken to a Houston hospital , including one person who had to @ @ @ @ @ .
Texas Department of Public Safety Sgt .
Richard Standifer told the Houston Chronicle that @ @ @ @ @ call after the plane lost power .
Houston TV station KHOU reported that the aircraft @ @ @ @ @ school and plane rental company that operated out of the Sugar Land airport , southwest @ @ @ @ @ showed that the plane was travelling from Tyler to Sugar Land at the time of @ @ @ @ @ reported .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Biden vows to fight racial inequality with economic agenda

WILMINGTON , Del .
- Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden promised Tuesday that his economic agenda would combat long-standing racial inequalities as he sought to draw another sharp contrast with President Donald Trump .
Biden said the Republican president is exacerbating social discord across the country , including by sending federal authorities into major cities under the pretense of addressing crime .
And he said Trump has little interest in addressing the racism that Biden said has been laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic , which disproportionately claims people of colour as its victims , or in an election-year reckoning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ He can ’ t turn the economy around .
He ’ s determined to stoke division and chaos , “ Biden said , speaking in a community centre gymnasium in his hometown of Wilmington , Delaware .
” It ’ s not good for the country , but Donald Trump doesn ’ t care .
His campaign is failing and he ’ s looking for a lifeline.
” Biden countered with a litany of proposals to steer federal money and tax credits to small business and economic development programs for minority-owned firms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ d encourage home ownership to help close wealth gaps among minority communities and push the nation ’ s banking system , including the Federal Reserve , to more directly address economic inequality .
Many of his proposals — and the billions in federal spending needed to pay for it — had already been promised as part of previous , larger Biden plans to jump-start the economy when the coronavirus outbreak begins to recede .
But as protests against institutional racism and police brutality have swept the country in recent months , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to show voters that he ’ s committed to implementing specific remedies that can promote racial and economic equality should he win the White House in November .
Biden ’ s speech and his subsequent question-and-answer session with reporters – just his third extended news conference in four months – come as he nears a decision on a running mate .
Biden came prepared to talk about at least one of the top contenders : California Sen. Kamala Harris .
An Associated Press photographer captured Biden ’ s handwritten notes with talking points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was Harris .
A recent Politico story alleged that Biden ’ s longtime friend and vetting committee leader Chris Dodd , a former Democratic senator like Biden , had raised concerns about Harris going after Biden last summer on the debate stage and showing “ no remorse ” in conversations with Biden ’ s campaign .
On Biden ’ s notepad , he ’ d written below Harris ’ name : “ Do not hold grudges ” and “ Great respect for her.
” Biden did not field a question specifically about Harris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and he ’ s confirmed in recent weeks that his short list for vice-president includes several women of colour .
His decision is expected to have unusual importance given his age , 77 , and the fact that he ’ s a white man leading a diverse party .
Recent polls have shown Biden leading Trump nationally and in many competitive states that determine the Electoral College outcome .
But Biden ’ s aides are keenly aware that Hillary Clinton lost key battleground states four years ago in part because of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what President Barack Obama drew in 2012 .
As part of his attacks on Trump ’ s approach to race , Biden blasted the president for ordering federal authorities to intervene against protesters in places like Portland , Oregon , and Chicago , while small businesses around the country continue to struggle or shut down because of the coronavirus .
The president , Biden said , is trying to distract and scare voters .
Biden said most demonstrators are “ peaceful protesters ” who don ’ t require a response from the federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be prosecuted , ” Biden said , and “ local law enforcement can do that.
” Still , Biden said , “ This election is not just about voting against Donald Trump .
It ’ s about rising to this moment of crisis , understanding people ’ s struggle and building a future worthy of their courage and ambition to overcome.
” And he said that means thinking about every policy debate in terms of structural inequalities .
Maurice Mitchell , a prominent figure in the Movement for Black Lives and national director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are some “ promising items ” in Biden ’ s proposals , but added , “ There ’ s more we need.
” Looking beyond the campaign , Mitchell said , “ It ’ s not a matter of what ’ s in Biden ’ s platform.
” Instead , he said , “ The power of the movement in the streets will dictate the results of a Biden administration .
Fortunately , the movement for racial justice has never been stronger.
” Specifically , the former vice-president wants to take $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the federal investment he ’ s already promised as part of larger economic plans , and funnel it into a “ Small Business Opportunity Fund ” designed to leverage $ 5 of private investment for minority owned enterprises for each $ 1 in public funds allocated .
He also plans to spend $ 50 billion to provide startup capital to help entrepreneurs of colour start businesses in disadvantaged areas .
To encourage home ownership , the plan would create a $ 15,000 federal tax credit to help low- and middle-income families cover down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also pledges to build 1.5 million new homes and public housing units in hopes of addressing the nation ’ s affordable housing crisis .
Biden also said the Federal Reserve ’ s mission should be revised to specifically charge the central bank with addressing “ persistent racial gaps ” in economic opportunities and wealth , rather than a more general focus on maximum employment and stable pricing .
Biden similarly vowed to undo Trump administration regulatory changes that the Democratic presidential nominee says “ gutted ” Obama administration rules preventing housing discrimination and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plan doesn ’ t endorse legalizing marijuana , though it seeks to clear court hurdles so states can better identify nonviolent offenders whose records they might opt to expunge .
Black and Hispanic Americans often face far harsher penalties for crimes involving marijuana possession than white people do .
The Democratic National Committee ’ s convention platform committee voted by a wide margin on Monday to keep language calling for legalization of marijuana nationwide out of the party ’ s platform .

Will Weissert And Bill Barrow - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--McConnell: No room for new FBI building in virus aid bill

WASHINGTON - The Senate ’ s top Republican said Tuesday that he opposes a push by President Donald Trump to include nearly $ 1.8 billion in a new coronavirus aid package to rebuild the FBI headquarters on its current site in downtown Washington .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters he opposes inclusion of the FBI money and all other measures not related to the government ’ s response to the virus .
“ When we get to the end of the process , I would hope all of the non-COVID-related measures are out , ’ ’ McConnell said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in at the start.
” McConnell ’ s comments came after Democrats accused Trump of self-dealing with his push on the FBI building , which sits across the street from a downtown hotel that Trump owns on Pennsylvania Avenue , blocks from the White House .
The Trump International Hotel could face competition if the FBI moves from the site and another hotel is developed on the property .
Before running for office , Trump expressed interest in redeveloping the FBI property himself , and he has taken a strong personal interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ They don ’ t have money for food stamps , but they have money for an FBI building just so that they can diminish competition for the president ’ s hotel , ” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Monday night .
“ More than 150,000 Americans have died from coronavirus , millions are unemployed ... and Mitch McConnell and Donald Trump are more concerned about protecting Trump Hotel .
That is shameful , ’ ’ Rep. Gerry Connolly , D-Va. , also said Monday .
The White House defended the spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , the FBI desperately needs a new building and this measure provides critical funding for this project that would keep the building responsibly near the Department of Justice , ’ ’ spokesperson Judd Deere said Tuesday .
Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Richard Shelby said the administration requested money for the FBI building , adding : “ The reason is , it is needed.
’ ’ Shelby , an Alabama Republican , acknowledged that the plan “ might have trouble ” getting through Congress .
“ Some of the Virginia people want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new FBI building built there , ’ ’ he said Tuesday before McConnell spoke , citing an earlier , failed proposal to move the FBI building from downtown Washington .
Senate Judiciary Chair Lindsey Graham , R-S.C. , said he did not know why money for the FBI building was included in the virus relief bill .
“ That makes no sense to me , ’ ’ Graham told reporters Tuesday .
” I ’ d be fine , okay with stripping it out ” of the bill .
Asked why the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus aid bill , White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said , “ Well , it ’ s just a pressing need , so whether it ’ s this bill or ( another spending bill ) later , it ’ s just a pressing need.
” The current J. Edgar Hoover building , built in 1974 , is crumbling badly .
The space is not big enough to consolidate all FBI personnel , and advocates of a suburban location say it would be less expensive and more efficient to rebuild outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s inspector general is investigating the cancellation of the original plan .
That investigation remains ongoing more than a year later .
Democrats said they only found out about the FBI plan after the GOP bill was released .
“ They managed to have enough money for $ 2 billion for the FBI headquarters that benefits Trump hotel , and they say they have no money for food assistance .
What the heck is going on ?
” said Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer .
Trump said last week that a new FBI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be near the Justice Department headquarters on Pennsylvania Avenue .
“ The site they have now is better ’ ’ than any alternative , Trump said Thursday .
Sites in Maryland or Virginia “ would ’ ve been too far away , ’ ’ he said .
The government faces a choice , Trump said : “ You can renovate the existing building — but it ’ s not a good building — or you could take it down and build a great building for the FBI for 100 years and have it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , D-Md.
, said lawmakers agree with Trump that the FBI needs a new headquarters , “ but to suddenly slip this ill-suited and unworkable downtown proposal as part of a COVID-19 relief package is the height of absurdity .
”


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Police: Mom charged in wilful crash that killed her baby

ATLANTA - A woman accused of intentionally crashing her car into another vehicle carrying her 3-month-old daughter and the child ’ s father has been charged with felony murder in the infant ’ s death , Atlanta police said Tuesday .
Titayanna Phillips , 21 , also was charged with aggravated assault in the crash Monday evening that also injured the father , news outlets reported .
The infant was identified in reports as Khy ’ undra Henderson .
Police said the child ’ s father , Undra Henderson , 27 , had just placed his daughter in a car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in northwest Atlanta when Phillips rear-ended his car with her SUV several times around 7 p.m. Monday .
Authorities said Henderson lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a telephone pole .
When officers arrived , first responders had to pry the injured occupants out of the vehicle , according to police .
Police spokesman Officer Steve Avery said the infant later died in a hospital .
The father was in the hospital Tuesday in stable condition , news outlets reported .
Neighbour Tarangela Jones said Phillips stood by after the crash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s unclear whether Phillips had an attorney who could comment on her behalf .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Norwegian flag mistaken for Confederate flag removed

ST. JOHNS , Mich. - Owners of a Michigan bed and breakfast have removed a Norwegian flag outside of their business after being accused of promoting racism from people who think that it is a Confederate flag .
Kjersten and Greg Offenecker , owners of The Nordic Pineapple , hung the flag opposite of the American flag after they moved into the Civil War-era mansion in 2018 , the Lansing State Journal reported .
They took both flags down last week .
The red flag , with a blue cross superimposed on a white cross , is a nod to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was born in Norway .
The Norwegian flag has the same colours as the Confederate flag , but the patterns and symbols are different .
The Confederate flag is red with a blue “ X ” containing white stars .
The couple said they never would have thought anyone would mistake the Norwegian flag for something else .
“ I don ’ t see it because I grew up with the Norwegian Flag , ” Kjersten Offenbecker said .
“ To me , they are two distinct flags.
” Several community members have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flag back up , but the Offenbeckers say they won ’ t until they can figure out a way to make sure it is not mistaken for the the Confederate flag .
The couple wrote in a July 20 post on The Nordic Pineapple ’ s Facebook page : “ We love being members of the St Johns community and are heartbroken to have had to make this decision .
Given the current cultural climate and the idea that people are judging us based on the misconception of the national Norwegian flag vs. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is best for our family and our Inn.
” The couple , who has two Black children , said they are have done their best to help their children navigate racism in America and the aftermath of George Floyd ’ s death in Minneapolis .
Floyd died after an officer pressed his knew into Floyd ’ s neck for nearly eight minutes .
The death of Floyd sparked protests worldwide against racial injustice and police brutality .
“ It ’ s more than this one instance for Black people , ” Kjersten Offenbecker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just this one person .
This was the straw that broke the proverbial back .
”


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Biden’s notes: ‘Do not hold grudges’ against Kamala Harris

WILMINGTON , Del .
- Joe Biden was uncharacteristically tight-lipped on Tuesday about the final stretch of his search for a vice-president .
But the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee seemed prepared to talk about at least one leading contender : California Sen. Kamala Harris .
As he took questions from reporters on Tuesday , Biden held notes that were captured by an Associated Press photographer .
Harris ’ name was scrawled across the top , followed by five talking points .
“ Do not hold grudges.
” “ Campaigned with me & Jill.
” “ Talented.
” “ Great help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her.
” Those are all observations Biden has made about Harris before .
But they take on new significance following a recent Politico report that one of Biden ’ s closest friends and a co-chair of his vice-presidential vetting committee , former Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd , still harbours concerns about Harris ’ tough debate stage performance and that she hasn ’ t expressed regret .
The comments attributed to Dodd have drawn condemnation , especially from influential Democratic women who maintain that Harris is being held to a standard that wouldn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president .
The debate-stage skirmish was one of the seminal moments of the Democratic primary .
Harris , who is Black , said Biden made “ very hurtful ” comments about his past work with segregationist senators before she slammed his opposition to busing as schools began to integrate .
“ There was a little girl in California who was a part of the second class to integrate her public schools , and she was bused to school every day , ” she said .
“ And that little girl was me.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments “ a mischaracterization of my position.
” Their relationship has become considerably more amicable .
Biden has praised Harris publicly many times and noted that he ’ s thought highly of her personally and professionally since she became close to his late son , Beau Biden , when both were state attorneys general .
It is common for high-profile politicians to take notes with them to the podium , either handwritten additions to formal remarks or a bullet-point list like what Biden held on stationery featuring his full name : Joseph R. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the coronavirus pandemic , President Donald Trump ’ s notes were photographed to show “ Chinese ” written over “ corona , ” part of the president ’ s efforts to blame the pandemic on a foreign adversary .
Last year , as Trump faced impeachment for pressuring Ukraine officials to help his reelection by finding dirt on Biden , the president had notes that read : “ I want nothing ” and “ I want no quid pro quo.
” Biden ’ s list , at the least , suggests that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his relationship with Harris .
As reflected in his notes , Harris has become a reliable surrogate for Biden , appearing with him in online fundraisers amid the unusual social distancing standards forced on the campaign by the COVID-19 pandemic .
As recently as last week , Harris headlined her own event for Biden , one focused on the Raleigh area in North Carolina , a battleground state where Harris ’ dual appeal to Black voters and college-educated white women could boost Democrats ’ prospects .
Biden ultimately did not field a question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Harris did not immediately respond to a request for comment .
In just his third extended news conference in four months , Biden also sidestepped specific questions about the timing of his decision on a running mate , an approach reflected in another entry on Biden ’ s notepad .
Under the heading “ VP , ” Biden wrote “ highly qualified ” and “ diverse group , ” signifying his intention not to tease out any more details .
Beyond vice-presidential politics , Biden ’ s topics included the Justice Department , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testifying Tuesday on Capitol Hill .
His notes did not name Barr , but Biden referenced “ the people ’ s lawyer … not the president ’ s lawyer , ” echoing his previous assertions that Barr has used his post as the latter .
On the “ Last 100 days ” of the campaign , Biden wrote that he ’ d be “ offering clearest contrast , ” “ tell the truth , ” “ take responsibility ” and “ listen to the scientists ” – all swipes at Trump .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Biden ’ s campaign : “ Restore soul ” of the nation , “ Rebuild MC ” ( the middle class ) and “ unite country .
”

Bill Barrow And Andrew Harnik - The Associated Press


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Prosecutors: ‘Alarming’ that Maxwell may publicize victims

NEW YORK - Some witnesses in the criminal case against Jeffrey Epstein ’ s former girlfriend may face harassment and intimidation and could be reluctant to co-operate with the government if defence attorneys are allowed to discuss them publicly , prosecutors said Tuesday .
Prosecutors asked a Manhattan federal court judge to block lawyers for British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell from publicly identifying women who have already spoken about the financier or Maxwell on a public forum .
“ The victims of Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein have suffered enough , “ prosecutors said , urging privacy for accusers except for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the criminal case against Maxwell .
Defence lawyers said Monday that banning them from publicly identifying alleged victims or potential witnesses in the case will hinder their ability to investigate , prepare witnesses for trial and advocate on Maxwell ’ s behalf .
“ Permitting defence counsel to publicly identify witnesses who have not identified themselves on the record in this case risks subjecting witnesses to harassment and intimidation , with no conceivable benefit to the defence other than perhaps discouraging witnesses from co-operating with the Government , “ prosecutors wrote in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they believed they could reference victims by name publicly prior to trial because the individuals had gotten a “ benefit “ by publicly identifying themselves .
“ Beyond the offensive notion that victims of sexual abuse experience a ‘ benefit ’ by making the incredibly difficult decision to share their experience publicly , the suggestion that victims who receive this supposed ‘ benefit ’ should receive fewer protections than the law ordinarily offers to victims in criminal cases is alarming , “ prosecutors wrote .
The dispute arose as lawyers on both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of secrecy about evidence prior to a July 12 trial , when Maxwell will face charges that she recruited three teenage girls for Epstein to abuse in London and the United States in the 1990s .
Maxwell , 58 , incarcerated since her July 2 arrest at her New Hampshire estate , has pleaded not guilty to charges alleging she sometimes joined in the abuse of the girls , which included one who was 14 .
Epstein , 66 , was facing sex trafficking charges in Manhattan when he killed himself last August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believes it should not be restricted from publicly disclosing or disseminating the identity of any alleged victims or potential witnesses referenced in the discovery materials who have already identified themselves by speaking on the public record , “ defence lawyers wrote in their submission .
Prosecutors , though , said “ victims should be able to continue to come forward , in the ways and in the venues they themselves choose , without fear of reprisal , shaming , or other consequence arising from having their identities broadcast by defence counsel in this @ @


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Judge lifts ban on NYCLU releasing police discipline records

NEW YORK - Reversing her initial ruling , a federal judge cleared the way Tuesday for a civil rights organization to provide the public with disciplinary records it obtained from New York City ’ s police watchdog agency .
Judge Katherine Polk Failla said the new ruling pertaining to the state ’ s chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union will take effect Wednesday afternoon , giving public safety unions challenging the release of such records 24 hours to appeal .
Failla had halted the release of disciplinary records last week after the unions sued to block Mayor Bill de @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change in state law to start posting misconduct complaints on a government website .
“ We ’ re pleased with today ’ s ruling and plan to release the information we have as soon as the 24-hour stay expires , ” NYCLU legal director Christopher Dunn said .
“ The database will reveal a wide swath of information about police misconduct at a moment when the nation is debating police accountability.
” Failla had also barred the NYCLU from publicly releasing records it obtained from the city ’ s Civilian Complaint Review Board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ acting in concert ” with city government .
In revising her decision Tuesday , Failla said it was impossible for her to reach back and prevent the release of records that the NYCLU received before the unions filed their lawsuit on July 15 .
She faulted the unions for not suing sooner .
A message seeking comment was left with a spokesperson for the unions .
In their lawsuit , they argue that allowing the public to see unproven or false complaints could sully officers ’ reputations and compromise their safety .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ public view since the repeal last month of a law that had kept them secret for decades .
ProPublica on Sunday published a database containing complaint information for thousands of officers , while news outlets including The Associated Press have published numerous stories based on newly public disciplinary documents .
The rest of Failla ’ s temporary restraining order , halting the CCRB and police department ’ s disclosure of disciplinary records , is likely to remain at least until an Aug. 18 hearing in the union case .


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Texas AG says schools trump health officials on class start

AUSTIN , Texas - Local health officials in Texas do not have the authority to close schools to prevent spread of the coronavirus , state Attorney General Ken Paxton said Tuesday , pushing that decision solely into the hands of school officials .
Paxton issued a “ legal guidance ” letter on schools amid fierce debate among local governments , health officials , parents and teachers on when schools should open in a state that has become one of the nation ’ s hot spots in the pandemic .
Texas has seen new confirmed virus cases , hospitalizations and deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas reported 164 new deaths , bringing the state total to nearly 5,900 , with nearly 10,000 COVID-19 patients in the hospital .
Dozens of cities , counties and school districts — including in the most populous areas — have already decided to delay school reopenings for the upcoming academic year .
In Dallas , health officials have prohibited in-person classes until at least Sept. 8 and similar orders are in place in Houston .
Paxton ’ s letter sent them scrambling to check its impact on their decisions and set up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions to save lives from this crisis should be guided by public health , science , and compassion for the health and safety of our residents — not politics , ” said Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo .
Paxton , a Republican , said local health officials ’ authority is limited to addressing “ specific , actual outbreaks of disease.
” He previously said local health orders closing schools didn ’ t apply to private religious schools .
“ While playing an important role in protecting the health of school children and employees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sweeping orders closing schools for the sole purpose of preventing future COVID-19 infections , ” Paxton said .
The Texas Education Agency , which oversees public schools , meanwhile piled more pressure on , telling schools they risk losing state funding if they close campuses to comply with any order from local health authorities .
Republican Gov .
Greg Abbott , who toured parts of South Texas hit by Hurricane Hanna , didn ’ t address Paxton ’ s guidance directly when speaking with reporters in Corpus Christi .
But he said school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ education officials with input from health authorities .
“ We have a duty to ensure we do not lose a generation of students because of this pandemic , “ Abbott said .
“ We have an obligation to step up and make sure they are educated about reading , arithmetic , and things like that , but also they are educated in how to respond to challenges that may come their way in life .
Pediatricians all recommend the best learning environment for a child is going to be in the classroom.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paxton .
“ We trust health experts , not the attorney general , when children ’ s lives are at stake , ” the group said in a statement .
Abbott also went to the Rio Grande Valley , which remains one of the nation ’ s worst hot spots for the virus and where the weekend storm made getting patients to treatment difficult .
Abbott said the state is pushing hard to meet the medical needs of the region , and announced the McAllen Convention Center would be converted into a hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other nearby communities will get temporary “ step down ” facilities for up to 40 patients who are recovering from COVID-19 .
Starr County had more than 1,800 COVID-19 patients as of Tuesday , with the most recent being as young as 5 years old .
The county ’ s only hospital , which has fewer than 50 beds and no intensive care unit , has been at capacity for weeks .
Hanna ’ s lashing winds and rain grounded medical transport helicopters for days , leaving doctors with no ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re in a dire situation , ” Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villarreal said .
“ If we continue on the same trajectory , countless more lives will be lost.
” Local officials have pleaded with Abbott for weeks to allow them to use tougher enforcement measures to force the use of face masks and business closures .
Abbott said local governments already have the authority of civil fines .
The governor has resisted calls to impose a new statewide lockdown and said Tuesday that there are signs his previous orders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
While deaths remain high , Texas has reported fewer than 10,000 new daily confirmed cases since July 18 and the rolling positivity rate has dropped under 13 % for the first time since late June .
“ We are seeing positive results from the executive orders that I put into place that did not force people into poverty , by forcing them to lose their job , losing their income and prevent them from putting food on the table , ” Abbott said .
Associated Press reporter Paul J. Weber contributed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @


thetorontostar--2020-07-28--Brazil virus payout cuts extreme poverty to least in decades

BRASILIA , Brazil - Brazil ’ s extreme poverty has plunged due to a monthly federal handout during the coronavirus pandemic , but threatens to bounce back once the government ceases the stopgap welfare program , a report said Tuesday .
The study by the Getulio Vargas Foundation , a university and think-tank , said the number of Brazilians living in extreme poverty fell to 6.9 million in June , or 3.3 % of Brazil ’ s population — the lowest level since the late 1970s .
As this year began , 6.2 % Brazilians were in extreme poverty , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t directly compare the figures because of recent methodological changes on the government ’ s database , we can say it ’ s one of the lowest proportions ever recorded , ” Daniel Duque , the study ’ s author , said by phone from Rio de Janeiro .
He used the World Bank standard that classifies anyone earning less than $ 1.90 a day to be in extreme poverty .
The federal government since April has doled out $ 115 monthly to informal-sector workers and micro businesses affected by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Duque and other experts say that helped alleviate poverty in a nation riven by inequality , with average monthly income last year at $ 280 , according to the statistics institute .
The experts warned , however , that the relief is temporary and the number of impoverished Brazilians will rise after the last payment , currently slated for August .
“ No question we are in a transitory situation .
We won ’ t have this volume of income transfer forever , “ Duque said .
” I think it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ poverty levels .
I fear we can go back to even worse levels if the labour market doesn ’ t recover.
” The payments have already cost the government more than $ 32 billion and President Jair Bolsonaro ’ s economy minister , Paulo Guedes , has said its coffers can ill afford to maintain the program much longer .
Loose fiscal policy and rising government debt as a percentage of GDP prompted a slew of credit rating downgrades in recent years , and Guedes assumed his position with pledges to slash spending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We can ’ t continue for long .
It ’ s 50 billion reais per month ( around $ 10 billion ) .
It ’ s not money we have to spare .
We are increasing our debt with it , ” Bolsonaro said early in July .
The benefit was initially planned to last until June , but the president extended it by two months .
Bolsonaro ’ s political allies have started pressuring for another extension , arguing the payments help prevent further loss of support stemming from the president ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Latin America ’ s largest nation has confirmed more than 2.4 million infections and 88,000 dead — the second highest totals in the world .
Bolsonaro has consistently downplayed the virus ’ severity , arguing that the impact of restrictions on economic activity will prove far more damaging .
Economists surveyed by Brazil ’ s central bank expect the economy to shrink 5.8 % this year .
“ Without controlling the epidemic there is no economic recovery , ” Marcelo Medeiros , a visiting professor at Princeton University ’ s Brazil LAB who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from New Jersey .
“ Brazil hasn ’ t controlled the disease , so now the recovery will take much longer and the damage will be greater.
” While the rollout of the social program was marred by widespread difficulties for beneficiaries in accessing the funds , today the payout directly or indirectly reaches half of Brazil ’ s population of 210 million , according to the citizenship ministry , which is doling out the amounts .
Rogério Barbosa , an economic inequality researcher at the University of Sao Paulo , said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who may soon find themselves unassisted .
“ When the benefit is over , there will be no work for them , ” Barbosa said in a phone interview .
Official data say nearly 8 million people lost their jobs during the pandemic ’ s first three months , and the statistics institute hasn ’ t yet published employment data for June .
The economy minister has said he intends to launch a new social program to substitute for the temporary benefit , but the plan and the amount of money it would @ @ @ @ @ @ @