upi--2020-10-15--MLB playoffs: Houston Astros narrowly edge Tampa Bay Rays 4-3 in Game 4 of ALCS

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- The Houston Astros avoided elimination and a sweep in the American League Championship Series on Wednesday night with a narrow victory in Game 4 .
Astros pitcher Zack Greinke allowed five hits and two runs and threw seven strikeouts in six innings in the 4-3 win at Petco Park in San Diego .
Jose Altuve and George Springer each homered for Houston .
`` Nobody 's ready to go home , '' Astros manager Dusty Baker told reporters .
`` I 'm not ready to go home .
Nobody 's ready to go home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to [ Arlington , Texas , for the World Series ] .
... We 're one step closer to the top of that mountain , but we have a couple steep cliffs the next couple days . ''
The Rays remain one game away from a trip to the World Series and now lead the best-of-seven ALCS 3-1 .
Tampa Bay is looking for its second American League pennant in the franchise 's 23rd year of existence .
The Rays lost in five games to the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2008 World Series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hitters in order and Altuve smashed a 400-foot solo homer to left field to give Houston an early lead in the bottom of the first inning .
Altuve then drove in another run with an RBI double in the bottom of the third to give the Astros a 2-0 lead .
Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena tied the score in the top of the next inning .
Manuel Margot struck out in the first at-bat of the inning before Austin Meadows ripped a single to right field .
Arozarena then worked an early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 3-1 Greinke curveball over the left field fence for a 375-foot , two-run homer .
Arozarena 's laser longball traveled off his bat at 102 mph and needed just four seconds to leave the field , according to Statcast .
Rays starter Tyler Glasnow retired the Astros in order in the bottom of the fourth before Houston took the lead in the next inning .
Josh Reddick began the half-inning with a flyout before Martin Maldonado singled to left field .
Springer then stepped into the batter 's box and pelted a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 405-foot , two-run homer to give Houston a 4-2 lead .
Rays shortstop Willy Adames plated Joey Wendle with an RBI double in the top of the ninth inning for the final run of the game .
Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly forced a lineout from Yoshi Tsutsugo to end the game and earn a save .
Glasnow allowed eight hits and four runs in six innings in the loss .
Altuve went 2 for 4 with two RBIs for Houston .
Springer went 3 for 4 with two RBIs and Meadows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I think I went out there with just one really good pitch , '' said Glasnow , who used a fastball as his primary offering .
`` They have a really good team and are a really good-hitting team .
`` When you go out there and have one pitch , it makes your job a whole lot harder .
It 's a matter of getting ahead and being able to throw my secondary [ pitches ] where I want them . ''
`` They are a very talented team that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defense constantly , '' Rays manager Kevin Cash said .
`` I 'm very pleased with the way we 've performed .
We are fortunate to be in the spot and we 'll get ready to play [ Thursday ] . ''
The Rays will look to clinch their second trip to the World Series in Game 5 Thursday at 5:07 p.m. EDT at Petco Park .
The teams have yet to reveal which pitchers will start .
The ALCS is being played at neutral Petco Park in San Diego , while the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Globe Life Field in Arlington , Texas .
The winner of the ALCS will face the Los Angeles Dodgers or Atlanta Braves , who lead the series 2-1 .

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Houston Astros starting pitcher Zack Greinke allowed five hits and two runs in six innings in a playoff win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday in San Diego. File Photo by Trask Smith/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The Houston Astros avoided elimination and a sweep in the American League Championship Series on Wednesday night with a narrow victory in Game 4. Astros pitcher Zack Greinke allowed five hits and two runs and threw seven strikeouts in six innings in the 4-3 win at Petco Park in San Diego. Jose Altuve and George Springer each homered for Houston. Advertisement
"Nobody's ready to go home," Astros manager Dusty Baker told reporters. "I'm not ready to go home. Nobody's ready to go home.
"We're ready to go to [Arlington, Texas, for the World Series]. ... We're one step closer to the top of that mountain, but we have a couple steep cliffs the next couple days."
The Rays remain one game away from a trip to the World Series and now lead the best-of-seven ALCS 3-1. Tampa Bay is looking for its second American League pennant in the franchise's 23rd year of existence. The Rays lost in five games to the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2008 World Series.
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Greinke retired the first nine Rays hitters in order and Altuve smashed a 400-foot solo homer to left field to give Houston an early lead in the bottom of the first inning. Altuve then drove in another run with an RBI double in the bottom of the third to give the Astros a 2-0 lead.
Rays left fielder Randy Arozarena tied the score in the top of the next inning. Manuel Margot struck out in the first at-bat of the inning before Austin Meadows ripped a single to right field.
Arozarena then worked an early lead in the count before he smashed a 3-1 Greinke curveball over the left field fence for a 375-foot, two-run homer. Arozarena's laser longball traveled off his bat at 102 mph and needed just four seconds to leave the field, according to Statcast.
Rays starter Tyler Glasnow retired the Astros in order in the bottom of the fourth before Houston took the lead in the next inning. Josh Reddick began the half-inning with a flyout before Martin Maldonado singled to left field.
Springer then stepped into the batter's box and pelted a 2-1 Glasnow fastball to left field for a 405-foot, two-run homer to give Houston a 4-2 lead.
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Rays shortstop Willy Adames plated Joey Wendle with an RBI double in the top of the ninth inning for the final run of the game. Astros relief pitcher Ryan Pressly forced a lineout from Yoshi Tsutsugo to end the game and earn a save.
Glasnow allowed eight hits and four runs in six innings in the loss. Altuve went 2 for 4 with two RBIs for Houston. Springer went 3 for 4 with two RBIs and Meadows went 2 for 4 for the Rays.
"I think I went out there with just one really good pitch," said Glasnow, who used a fastball as his primary offering. "They have a really good team and are a really good-hitting team.
"When you go out there and have one pitch, it makes your job a whole lot harder. It's a matter of getting ahead and being able to throw my secondary [pitches] where I want them."
"They are a very talented team that can put pressure on your pitching and defense constantly," Rays manager Kevin Cash said. "I'm very pleased with the way we've performed. We are fortunate to be in the spot and we'll get ready to play [Thursday]."
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The Rays will look to clinch their second trip to the World Series in Game 5 Thursday at 5:07 p.m. EDT at Petco Park. The teams have yet to reveal which pitchers will start.
The ALCS is being played at neutral Petco Park in San Diego, while the National League Championship Series is being staged at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The winner of the ALCS will face the Los Angeles Dodgers or Atlanta Braves, who lead the series 2-1.
This week in Major League Baseball


upi--2020-10-15--Watch live: Witnesses testify at final day of hearings for Amy Coney Barrett

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- A slate of witnesses are scheduled to testify before a Senate panel Thursday on the fourth and final day of confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett .
The witness testimony follows three days of Barrett appearing before the Senate judiciary committee , where members questioned the appellate judge on topics including abortion , voting rights , the Affordable Care Act and legal matters involving President Donald Trump .
Thursday 's hearing will begin at 9 a.m. EDT .
Despite repeated attempts over nearly 20 hours of questioning to gauge her political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ views on controversial issues or critique earlier court rulings , such as the landmark 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision that legalized abortion .
During questioning , Democrats zeroed in on healthcare and fears that Barrett may provide a decisive vote in striking down the ACA when a Republican-led legal challenge comes before the high court the week after the Nov. 3 election .
Republicans , meanwhile , criticized Democrats for `` playing politics '' with the hearing while praising Barrett 's character and qualifications for the lifetime appointment , Trump 's third since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first witness panel Thursday will include legal experts from the American Bar Association , who will speak to Barrett 's qualifications .
The second will be witnesses called by Democratic and Republican committee members to speak for or against Barrett 's confirmation .
It was at this stage in 2018 that Christine Blasey Ford testified before the committee that nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her decades ago .
Kavanaugh was eventually confirmed by the panel and , later , the full Senate by a vote of 50-48 .
Among those invited to speak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crystal Good , who fought in court for an abortion at age 16 , and Stacy Staggs , the mother of 7-year-old twins with pre-existing conditions who will testify about the importance of the Affordable Care Act .
Witnesses called by committee Chairman Sen. Lindsey Graham , R-S.C. , include retired judge Thomas Griffith , who has praised Barrett , and attorney Laura Wolk , one of Barrett 's former law students .
The 22-member committee is expected approve Barrett 's confirmation along party lines in a vote scheduled for next week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on her nomination on Oct. 22 .
If approved , her appointment would move to the full Senate where it needs a simple majority for final confirmation .
Democrats are hoping to compel four Republican senators to vote against her confirmation , arguing that winner of the Nov. 3 presidential election should nominate the next Supreme Court justice , who will succeed Ruth Bader Ginsburg .

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Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., (L) and ranking member Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., attend the Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting on Supreme Court justice nominee Amy Coney Barrett in Hart Senate Office Building on Thursday in Washington, D.C. Pool Photo By Tom Williams/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Overruling Democratic objections, the Republican majority of the Senate judiciary committee on Thursday said the panel will vote next week whether to advance the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett for a full floor vote. Chairman Sen. Lindsey Graham said the committee will vote on Oct. 22 at the start of the fourth and final day of confirmation hearings for Barrett's appointment. Advertisement
Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., unsuccessfully sought a postponement, calling the nomination a "sham process."
The 22-member committee is expected approve Barrett's confirmation along party lines. If approved, her appointment would move to the full Senate where it needs a simple majority for final confirmation.
Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell told reporters Thursday he plans to schedule the full Senate vote a day later, on Oct. 23. President Donald Trump has urged Barrett be confirmed before the Nov. 3 election.
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Democrats are hoping to compel four Republican senators to vote against her confirmation, arguing that winner of the Nov. 3 presidential election should nominate the next Supreme Court justice, who will succeed Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
A slate of witnesses were scheduled to testify Thursday following two days in which members questioned Barrett on topics including abortion, voting rights, the Affordable Care Act and legal matters involving the president.
Despite repeated attempts over nearly 20 hours of questioning to gauge her political leanings, Barrett refused to express personal views on controversial issues or critique earlier court rulings, such as the landmark 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision that legalized abortion.
During questioning, Democrats zeroed in on healthcare and fears that Barrett may provide a decisive vote in striking down the ACA when a Republican-led legal challenge comes before the high court the week after the Nov. 3 election.
Republicans, meanwhile, criticized Democrats for "playing politics" with the hearing while praising Barrett's character and qualifications for the lifetime appointment, Trump's third since he took office in 2017.
The first witness panel Thursday included legal experts from the American Bar Association to speak to Barrett's qualifications. The second will feature witnesses called by committee members to speak for or against Barrett's confirmation.
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It was at this stage in 2018 that Christine Blasey Ford testified before the committee that nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her decades ago. Kavanaugh was eventually confirmed by the panel and, later, the full Senate by a vote of 50-48.
Among those invited to speak by ranking Democrat Sen. Diane Feinstein are Crystal Good, who fought in court for an abortion at age 16, and Stacy Staggs, the mother of 7-year-old twins with pre-existing conditions who will testify about the importance of the Affordable Care Act.
Witnesses called by committee Chairman Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., include retired judge Thomas Griffith, who has praised Barrett, and attorney Laura Wolk, one of Barrett's former law students.
Judge Amy Coney Barrett sworn in to U.S. Supreme Court


upi--2020-10-15--Watch live: House panel examines conspiracy theories, misinformation spread online

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- The House intelligence committee will hold a hearing Thursday to examine the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories online .
The hearing , titled `` Misinformation , Conspiracy Theories , and 'Infodemics ' : Stopping the Spread Online , '' will begin at 1:30 p.m. EDT .
The panel expressed concern for exploring misinformation and conspiracy beliefs on social media and elsewhere on the Internet amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the nearing Nov. 3 election .
`` Recent trends in the spread and reach of misleading or unfounded claims online have the unsettling potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day -- particularly if the certified outcome is unknown or contested in the ensuing days and weeks , '' the committee wrote in a statement .
The panel said the hearing will discuss methods that different conspiracy and misinformation narratives interact online , the role social media platforms play in spreading and preventing such content , how foreign actors take advantage of misinformation online , steps the U.S. government and private sector should take in response and implications about `` social and political discourse '' beyond the 2020 election .
`` Although the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- ranging from baseless QAnon posts , to dangerous coronavirus skepticism and denialism , to falsehoods about mail-in ballots -- are often homegrown and amplified by American voices , the propaganda and covert influence machines of foreign adversaries have nonetheless repeated and amplified them in the service of strategic interests , '' the committee noted .
Thursday 's hearing comes after the House voted this month to condemn QAnon , a conspiracy theory that claims the world elites maintain a `` Satanic child-murdering sex cult , '' that President Donald Trump is working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been flagged by both Facebook and Twitter in recent months for spreading misinformation , including a claim last weekend that he 's now `` immune '' from COVID-19 .
Trump spent several days in the hospital and under constant medical observation and took multiple drugs , including at least one that 's not yet been approved by federal regulators , after he was diagnosed with the coronavirus disease .
The hearing will feature testimony from Dr. Joan Donovan , research director on at the Shorenstein Center on Media , Politics , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wilson Center disinformation fellow Nina Jankowicz ; Cindi Otis , vice president of the Alethea Group and Melanie Smith , head of analysis at Graphika Inc .

A man holds a QAnon conspiracy flag while walking over the All Black Lives Matter mural in Hollywood, Calif., on August 22. The QAnon conspiracy, without evidence, accuses Hollywood actors of engaging in crimes against children. File Photo by Christian Monterrosa/EPA-EFE
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Experts testified before Congress Thursday that the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories online has contributed to the "dismantling of democracy" as well as real-world violence. During the House intelligence committee hearing, titled "Misinformation, Conspiracy Theories, and 'Infodemics': Stopping the Spread Online," the panel explored the role social media platforms play in spreading such content, how foreign and domestic take advantage of misinformation online and what steps the U.S. government and private sector should take in response. Advertisement
"This is a threat that is dismantling democracy, as Americans right now exercise their democratic rights it is critical the nation is informed about how disinformation might blunt their voice and their vote," said Wilson Center disinformation fellow Nina Jankowicz.
The panel, which Republican members of the committee declined to participate in, specifically expressed concern for exploring misinformation and conspiracy beliefs on social media and elsewhere on the Internet amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the nearing Nov. 3 election.
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Following evidence of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, in part through various online misinformation campaigns, Cindy Otis, vice president of the Alethea Group, warned that more countries have adopted similar tactics.
"Perhaps inspired by Russian efforts, more countries than ever are using false information to advance both their domestic and foreign policy goals such as China and Iran," Otis said. "Many of these foreign actors are actively targeting political divisions in this country to manipulate and influence American citizens and to degrade America's standing in the world and the credibility of our institutions."
Jankowicz further warned that lawmakers and social media heads have also failed to stem misinformation spread by domestic actors.
"Not only have the U.S. government and social media platforms all but abdicated their responsibility to stop the threat of foreign disinformation, domestic disinformation now runs rampant," she said. "It is amplified in the media, online, in the halls of Congress and from the White House itself. It does our adversaries work for them, leaving us vulnerable to continued manipulation and leaving our democracy imperiled."
Thursday's hearing came as YouTube followed recent actions by Facebook and Twitter to ban content from the conspiracy group QAnon, as well as broadening its hate and harassment policies to prohibit content featuring conspiracy theories that have been used to justify real-world violence.
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The House also voted earlier this month to condemn QAnon, a conspiracy theory that claims the world elites maintain a "Satanic child-murdering sex cult," that President Donald Trump is working to bring to justice.
Melanie Smith, head of analysis at Graphika Inc., identified QAnon as "the most pressing threat to trust in government, public institutions and democratic processes."
"The real reason QAnon poses a threat is in its systematic undermining of facts and truths on topics of genuine concern, such as the integrity of elections, human trafficking and the global COVID-19 pandemic," she said.
Smith also sought to dispel a pair of misconceptions about QAnon including that it had been stoked or infiltrated by foreign actors and driven by bots or fake accounts, saying that it in reality "does appear to be a homegrown movement that engages real users."
Trump himself has been flagged by both Facebook and Twitter in recent months for spreading misinformation, including a claim last weekend that he's now "immune" from COVID-19.
Trump spent several days in the hospital and under constant medical observation and took multiple drugs, including at least one that's not yet been approved by federal regulators, after he was diagnosed with the coronavirus disease.
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The panel called on social media platforms and the government to take greater steps to prevent the spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation online.
"The leading social media platforms have all made significant changes in their policies and capabilities since 2016, but they have not changed the foundational features of their platforms that expose users and even recommend to them often extreme sensational or emotionally charged content," said Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif.
Dr. Joan Donovan, research director on at the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School said she is "very much in favor" of establishing a new agency to regulate the impact of social media regulation and provide recommendations on how to do so.
"Rather than hold on to techno-nostalgia for a time when social media was not this harmful, sometimes its worth asking: 'What would it take to uninvent social media?' so that we can chart a course for the web we want. A web that promotes safety, equity and democracy," she said.


upi--2020-10-15--WHO: Average person may wait until 2022 for vaccine

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- The World Health Organization said if there is an effective vaccine against COVID-19 next year the distribution plan prioritizes vaccinating those most at risk to the virus , forcing the average person to possibly wait for their inoculation until 2022 .
`` People tend the think 'Ah !
On the first of January or the first of April , I 'm going to get the vaccine , and then things will be back to normal , ' '' WHO 's chief scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan said .
`` It 's not going to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remark Wednesday during an online question and answer discussion hosted by the U.N. health body , explaining that if there is a vaccine by next year there will not initially be enough produced for everyone , so countries will need a plan for distributing the drug .
She said WHO 's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts has produced guidelines to help countries prioritize the allocation of a COVID-19 vaccine , but cautioned that even then hard decisions will need to be made .
`` Most people agree that it 's starting with healthcare @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there you need to define which of them are at the highest risk and then the elderly and so on , '' she said .
`` So it is important for countries to now start preparing . ''
The WHO has been leading an initiative to manufacture and provide equitable worldwide access to a vaccine and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus , the WHO director general , has said the global rollout of the drug will first be to those at highest risk with disbursement continuing on to other demographics as supplies increase .
More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initiative , called COVAX .
The plan , Tedros said , is to deliver at least 2 billion doses of a vaccine by the end of next year -- dependent on the development of an effective and safe inoculation .
Swaminathan said that there will hopefully be a vaccine next year but that the average person will probably have to wait until 2022 .
`` I think an average person , a healthy young person , might have to wait until 2022 to get a vaccine , '' she said .
`` But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can stem the acute impacts , reduce mortality , protect those who are at highest risk , start solving the acute problems and then we start by going to protect the larger percentage of the population . ''
Maria Van Kerkhove , WHO 's COVID-19 technical lead , added that there may be more than one vaccine , which may increase their ability to produce the drug .
She said that discussion around production is already occurring as vaccines are being developed , which is uncommon .
`` We 're doing this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need so many doses so quickly to focus on the high-risk workers , '' she said .
`` What we 're aiming towards with this allocation framework is that we have enough vaccine to vaccinate those most vulnerable , most at risk in every country as opposed to having vaccine for everyone in a couple of countries . ''

WHO's chief scientist Dr. Soumya said Wednesday that vaccine supplies will initially be limited once one is developed. SwaminathanPhoto courtesy of World Health Organization
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The World Health Organization said if there is an effective vaccine against COVID-19 next year the distribution plan prioritizes vaccinating those most at risk to the virus, forcing the average person to possibly wait for their inoculation until 2022. "People tend the think 'Ah! On the first of January or the first of April, I'm going to get the vaccine, and then things will be back to normal,'" WHO's chief scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan said. "It's not going to work like that." Advertisement
Swaminathan made the remark Wednesday during an online question and answer discussion hosted by the U.N. health body, explaining that if there is a vaccine by next year there will not initially be enough produced for everyone, so countries will need a plan for distributing the drug.
She said WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts has produced guidelines to help countries prioritize the allocation of a COVID-19 vaccine, but cautioned that even then hard decisions will need to be made.
"Most people agree that it's starting with healthcare workers and frontline workers, but even there you need to define which of them are at the highest risk and then the elderly and so on," she said. "So it is important for countries to now start preparing."
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The WHO has been leading an initiative to manufacture and provide equitable worldwide access to a vaccine and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO director general, has said the global rollout of the drug will first be to those at highest risk with disbursement continuing on to other demographics as supplies increase.
More than 170 countries have joined the WHO-led initiative, called COVAX.
The plan, Tedros said, is to deliver at least 2 billion doses of a vaccine by the end of next year -- dependent on the development of an effective and safe inoculation.
Swaminathan said that there will hopefully be a vaccine next year but that the average person will probably have to wait until 2022.
"I think an average person, a healthy young person, might have to wait until 2022 to get a vaccine," she said. "But, by that time, hopefully, we can stem the acute impacts, reduce mortality, protect those who are at highest risk, start solving the acute problems and then we start by going to protect the larger percentage of the population."
Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's COVID-19 technical lead, added that there may be more than one vaccine, which may increase their ability to produce the drug.
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She said that discussion around production is already occurring as vaccines are being developed, which is uncommon.
"We're doing this at the same time because we know we need so many doses so quickly to focus on the high-risk workers," she said. "What we're aiming towards with this allocation framework is that we have enough vaccine to vaccinate those most vulnerable, most at risk in every country as opposed to having vaccine for everyone in a couple of countries."


upi--2020-10-15--Shares of BTS record label Big Hit Entertainment soar on first day of trading

SEOUL , Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Shares of Big Hit Entertainment , the management agency behind K-pop sensation BTS , made a splash in their debut on Korea 's stock exchange Thursday , opening at twice the original offering price and bringing a windfall to the label 's founder and its biggest stars .
The Big Hit offering opened at $ 235 per share on the Korea Exchange , twice the price of its initial public offering of $ 117 .
It shot up another 30 % , the daily limit , after the opening bell before closing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hit ended its first day of trading valued at nearly $ 7.6 billion , creating massive wealth for its founder and co-CEO , Bang Si-Hyuk , who owns more than 36 % of the shares .
Bang 's stake is now worth some $ 2.7 billion , vaulting the 48-year-old into the ranks of South Korea 's richest individuals .
The seven members of BTS , the band that accounted for almost 90 % of Big Hit 's revenue last year , also saw their personal fortunes skyrocket , as each had been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That individual stake closed the day valued at $ 15.3 million .
BTS is a global sensation whose success helped Big Hit 's revenues nearly double last year to $ 512 million .
In September , they became the first Korean act to debut on Billboard 's Hot 100 chart with their English-language single `` Dynamite . ''
The boy band has continued its record-setting ways , currently sitting in the top two spots of the Hot 100 , with their remix of Jason Derulo and Jawsh 685 's `` Savage Love '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' at No .
2 .
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic putting a halt to most live entertainment , BTS has continued to generate revenue through high-performing online concerts , merchandise and other content over which Big Hit retains heavy control through its own streaming platform , Weverse .
Over the weekend , the K-pop stars held a two-day pay-per-view concert , `` Map Of The Soul ON : E , '' which drew nearly 1 million viewers worldwide , according to Big Hit .
Ticket prices ranged from roughly $ 45 to $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June drew over 750,000 paying fans .
The Big Hit IPO was South Korea 's largest since 2017 , raising $ 841 million earlier this month and continuing a string of successful IPOs recently launched in the country , including offerings from SK Biopharmaceuticals , an affiliate of South Korea 's massive SK Group conglomerate , and video game maker Kakao Games .
Some analysts have expressed concern about Big Hit 's heavy dependence on BTS as their main source of revenue .
One factor that could impact the band 's future is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which requires all able-bodied men to serve for nearly two years between the ages of 18 and 28 .
Defense minister Suh Wook said earlier this month that an exemption will not be possible for BTS , whose oldest member , Jin , is 27 .
However , South Korea 's military recruitment agency told parliament this week that it is working on a proposal to defer enlistment for global pop culture stars who enhance South Korea 's reputation .
BTS also finds itself at the center of a controversy in China , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ band over comments its leader RM made in reference to the shared suffering of the United States and South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War .
State-run Global Times claimed in an article published earlier this week that BTS `` hurt the feelings '' of the public by not mentioning China 's own sacrifice in the conflict , sparking a backlash and boycott calls .
Big Hit Entertainment 's Bang Si-hyuk said the company would find `` growth potential '' moving forward during a listing ceremony that was livestreamed on YouTube .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in various terms by raising profitability , growth potential and contributions to society , '' Bang said , according to news agency Yonhap .
`` We will spur efforts to become the world 's best entertainment and lifestyle company . ''

Big Hit Entertainment, the management company behind K-pop stars BTS, saw its value skyrocket on its first day of trading on the Korean stock exchange Thursday. Photo by Yonhap
SEOUL, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Shares of Big Hit Entertainment, the management agency behind K-pop sensation BTS, made a splash in their debut on Korea's stock exchange Thursday, opening at twice the original offering price and bringing a windfall to the label's founder and its biggest stars. The Big Hit offering opened at $235 per share on the Korea Exchange, twice the price of its initial public offering of $117. It shot up another 30%, the daily limit, after the opening bell before closing the day at $224. Advertisement
Big Hit ended its first day of trading valued at nearly $7.6 billion, creating massive wealth for its founder and co-CEO, Bang Si-Hyuk, who owns more than 36% of the shares. Bang's stake is now worth some $2.7 billion, vaulting the 48-year-old into the ranks of South Korea's richest individuals.
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The seven members of BTS, the band that accounted for almost 90% of Big Hit's revenue last year, also saw their personal fortunes skyrocket, as each had been given 68,385 shares of the company. That individual stake closed the day valued at $15.3 million.
BTS is a global sensation whose success helped Big Hit's revenues nearly double last year to $512 million. In September, they became the first Korean act to debut on Billboard's Hot 100 chart with their English-language single "Dynamite."
The boy band has continued its record-setting ways, currently sitting in the top two spots of the Hot 100, with their remix of Jason Derulo and Jawsh 685's "Savage Love" at No. 1 and "Dynamite" at No. 2.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic putting a halt to most live entertainment, BTS has continued to generate revenue through high-performing online concerts, merchandise and other content over which Big Hit retains heavy control through its own streaming platform, Weverse.
Over the weekend, the K-pop stars held a two-day pay-per-view concert, "Map Of The Soul ON:E," which drew nearly 1 million viewers worldwide, according to Big Hit. Ticket prices ranged from roughly $45 to $80. A previous concert held in June drew over 750,000 paying fans.
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The Big Hit IPO was South Korea's largest since 2017, raising $841 million earlier this month and continuing a string of successful IPOs recently launched in the country, including offerings from SK Biopharmaceuticals, an affiliate of South Korea's massive SK Group conglomerate, and video game maker Kakao Games.
Some analysts have expressed concern about Big Hit's heavy dependence on BTS as their main source of revenue.
One factor that could impact the band's future is South Korea's mandatory military service, which requires all able-bodied men to serve for nearly two years between the ages of 18 and 28. Defense minister Suh Wook said earlier this month that an exemption will not be possible for BTS, whose oldest member, Jin, is 27.
However, South Korea's military recruitment agency told parliament this week that it is working on a proposal to defer enlistment for global pop culture stars who enhance South Korea's reputation.
BTS also finds itself at the center of a controversy in China, after Chinese state media condemned the boy band over comments its leader RM made in reference to the shared suffering of the United States and South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War.
State-run Global Times claimed in an article published earlier this week that BTS "hurt the feelings" of the public by not mentioning China's own sacrifice in the conflict, sparking a backlash and boycott calls.
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Big Hit Entertainment's Bang Si-hyuk said the company would find "growth potential" moving forward during a listing ceremony that was livestreamed on YouTube.
"We will uphold the stockholder's value in various terms by raising profitability, growth potential and contributions to society," Bang said, according to news agency Yonhap. "We will spur efforts to become the world's best entertainment and lifestyle company."


upi--2020-10-15--Thailand issues emergency decree to ban protests

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- The prime minister of Thailand Prayut Chan-o-cha declared a state of emergency on Thursday in response to escalating protests calling for pro-democracy reforms in the kingdom .
The decree was issued after thousands of protesters on Wednesday took to the streets of Bangkok demanding the prime minister 's resignation and for a new constitution , saying it allowed Prayut , who took the helm of the country in a 2014 coup , to unfairly maintain power during last year 's elections .
The protests , which started early this summer , also call for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's royals and laws against criticizing the monarchy .
The protesters on Wednesday made their way through Bangkok and set up camp outside the prime minister 's office .
The government said in the decree that it was issued as groups of protesters `` intended to instigate an untoward incident '' near the Government House and said some had already obstructed the royal motorcade in violation of the kingdom 's law and constitution as the reason for its issuance .
`` It is , therefore , extremely necessary for an urgent measure to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation in an efficient and prompt manner , to ensure compliance with the law , and to sustain national order and public interest , '' the decree said .
The decree went into effect at 4 a.m. Thursday , banning groups of more than five and the publication and distribution of news and information `` that contains messages that could create fear or intentionally distort information '' that could threaten national security , peace and order .
Following the decree , police began enforcing it near the Government House early Thursday , arresting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Sunai Phasuk , a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch , said on Twitter .
`` Under state of emergency , police can detain them without charge up to 30 days , '' he said .
`` No lawyer access . ''
The country was already under a state of emergency due to COVID-19 .
Piya Tawichai , deputy chief of police in Bangkok , said Thursday morning that six companies of officers were deployed to end the encampment at the government house , the Bangkok Post reported .
Amnesty International warned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drastic order '' will lead to unfair arrests , detentions and prosecutions .
`` With further public assemblies expected to happen today , we urge the Thai authorities to engage in constructive dialogue with the protesters , '' said Ming Yu Hah , Amnesty International 's deputy regional director for campaigns .
Ming said the scale of the arrests on Thursday was `` completely unjustified '' as the protests the day prior were `` overwhelmingly peaceful , '' accusing the government of ruling by decree .
`` These moves are clearly designed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anyone who sympathizes with the protesters ' views , '' Ming said .
`` These arrests are sudden emergency measures announced in the middle of the night , are just the latest escalation in Thailand 's current onslaught on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly . ''

Thai anti-government protesters flash the three-finger salute during their march to the Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, on Wednesday. On Thursday, the government issued a decree to disband the protests. Photo by Narong Sangnak/EPA-EFE
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The prime minister of Thailand Prayut Chan-o-cha declared a state of emergency on Thursday in response to escalating protests calling for pro-democracy reforms in the kingdom. The decree was issued after thousands of protesters on Wednesday took to the streets of Bangkok demanding the prime minister's resignation and for a new constitution, saying it allowed Prayut, who took the helm of the country in a 2014 coup, to unfairly maintain power during last year's elections. Advertisement
The protests, which started early this summer, also call for reforms concerning the wealth of the kingdom's royals and laws against criticizing the monarchy.
The protesters on Wednesday made their way through Bangkok and set up camp outside the prime minister's office.
The government said in the decree that it was issued as groups of protesters "intended to instigate an untoward incident" near the Government House and said some had already obstructed the royal motorcade in violation of the kingdom's law and constitution as the reason for its issuance.
"It is, therefore, extremely necessary for an urgent measure to be implemented in order to end the situation in an efficient and prompt manner, to ensure compliance with the law, and to sustain national order and public interest," the decree said.
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The decree went into effect at 4 a.m. Thursday, banning groups of more than five and the publication and distribution of news and information "that contains messages that could create fear or intentionally distort information" that could threaten national security, peace and order.
Following the decree, police began enforcing it near the Government House early Thursday, arresting some 20 demonstrators, including protest leaders, Sunai Phasuk, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch, said on Twitter.
"Under state of emergency, police can detain them without charge up to 30 days," he said. "No lawyer access."
The country was already under a state of emergency due to COVID-19.
Piya Tawichai, deputy chief of police in Bangkok, said Thursday morning that six companies of officers were deployed to end the encampment at the government house, the Bangkok Post reported.
Amnesty International warned in a statement that the vague, drastic order" will lead to unfair arrests, detentions and prosecutions.
"With further public assemblies expected to happen today, we urge the Thai authorities to engage in constructive dialogue with the protesters," said Ming Yu Hah, Amnesty International's deputy regional director for campaigns.
Ming said the scale of the arrests on Thursday was "completely unjustified" as the protests the day prior were "overwhelmingly peaceful," accusing the government of ruling by decree.
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"These moves are clearly designed to stamp out dissent and sow fear in anyone who sympathizes with the protesters' views," Ming said. "These arrests are sudden emergency measures announced in the middle of the night, are just the latest escalation in Thailand's current onslaught on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly."


upi--2020-10-15--Study: Apathy may be an early sign of dementia

Older adults who are n't interested or enthusiastic about their usual activities may have a higher risk of developing dementia , new research suggests .
The nine-year study of more than 2,000 older adults -- average age 74 -- found that people with severe apathy -- a lack of interest or concern -- were 80 % more likely to develop dementia during the study period than those with low apathy .
`` Apathy is not subtle .
It 's something that families can pick up on .
More research is needed , but this is another potential red flag symptom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of dementia , '' said the study 's lead author , Dr. Meredith Bock .
She 's a clinical fellow in neurology at the University of California , San Francisco Institute for Neurosciences .
The prevalence of dementia -- including Alzheimer 's disease -- is on the rise , and researchers are trying to find new ways to identify who 's at risk of the disease .
Mood and behavior symptoms , such as depression or irritability , are examples of changes that may be clues to an impending dementia diagnosis .
Previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- a potential precursor to dementia -- and apathy , but the researchers wanted to look at a group of people who had no known memory or thinking issues yet .
The current study included people aged 70 to 79 .
None had dementia at the start .
The researchers also had medical records , including medication use , hospitalizations and cognitive testing .
To evaluate apathy levels , the study participants answered questions , such as : • In the past four weeks , how often have you been interested in leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the past four weeks , how often have you been interested in doing your usual activities ?
After nine years , the researchers found that 381 people had developed dementia .
In the low apathy group , 14 % developed dementia .
For those with moderate apathy levels , that number was 19 % .
But one in four -- 25 % -- in the severe apathy group had dementia by the end of the study .
When the researchers controlled the data for age , education , heart and blood vessel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alzheimer 's disease , they reported that people with severe apathy at the start of the study had 80 % higher odds of having dementia later in life .
Bock said by asking about apathy , doctors might be able to learn which patients have a higher risk of dementia .
The information could be particularly helpful in research trials , she added .
Rebecca Edelmayer , director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer 's Association , said , `` This type of research is critical to help us identify who is at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to identify people with a higher risk as soon as possible as we strive for treatments that will be transformational for patients and their families .
But it 's too soon to say if only looking at apathy can identify who is at risk of dementia . ''
Edelmayer explained that it can be difficult to tease out apathy from other changes that may be happening , such as depression or isolation .
She said if you have concerns about your own or a loved one 's memory or behavior , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Alzheimer 's Association 's 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900 .
The study findings were published online Oct. 14 in Neurology .
Learn more about the early signs of dementia from the Alzheimer 's Association .

Older adults who aren't interested or enthusiastic about their usual activities may have a higher risk of developing dementia, new research suggests.
The nine-year study of more than 2,000 older adults -- average age 74 -- found that people with severe apathy -- a lack of interest or concern -- were 80% more likely to develop dementia during the study period than those with low apathy.
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"Apathy is not subtle. It's something that families can pick up on. More research is needed, but this is another potential red flag symptom of the prodromal -- early -- phase of dementia," said the study's lead author, Dr. Meredith Bock. She's a clinical fellow in neurology at the University of California, San Francisco Institute for Neurosciences.
The prevalence of dementia -- including Alzheimer's disease -- is on the rise, and researchers are trying to find new ways to identify who's at risk of the disease. Mood and behavior symptoms, such as depression or irritability, are examples of changes that may be clues to an impending dementia diagnosis.
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Previous studies have also linked mild cognitive impairment -- a potential precursor to dementia -- and apathy, but the researchers wanted to look at a group of people who had no known memory or thinking issues yet.
The current study included people aged 70 to 79. None had dementia at the start. The researchers also had medical records, including medication use, hospitalizations and cognitive testing.
To evaluate apathy levels, the study participants answered questions, such as:
In the past four weeks, how often have you been interested in leaving your home and going out?
In the past four weeks, how often have you been interested in doing your usual activities?
After nine years, the researchers found that 381 people had developed dementia. In the low apathy group, 14% developed dementia. For those with moderate apathy levels, that number was 19%. But one in four -- 25% -- in the severe apathy group had dementia by the end of the study.
When the researchers controlled the data for age, education, heart and blood vessel disease, depression and genetic risk of Alzheimer's disease, they reported that people with severe apathy at the start of the study had 80% higher odds of having dementia later in life.
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Bock said by asking about apathy, doctors might be able to learn which patients have a higher risk of dementia. The information could be particularly helpful in research trials, she added.
Rebecca Edelmayer, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer's Association, said, "This type of research is critical to help us identify who is at risk. We are driving towards being able to identify people with a higher risk as soon as possible as we strive for treatments that will be transformational for patients and their families. But it's too soon to say if only looking at apathy can identify who is at risk of dementia."
Edelmayer explained that it can be difficult to tease out apathy from other changes that may be happening, such as depression or isolation.
She said if you have concerns about your own or a loved one's memory or behavior, you should speak with your doctor or call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
The study findings were published online Oct. 14 in Neurology.
More information
Learn more about the early signs of dementia from the Alzheimer's Association.
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-10-15--NASA funds Nokia plan to provide cellular service on moon

ORLANDO , Fla. , Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- NASA will fund a project by Nokia to build a 4G cellular communication network on the moon with $ 14.1 million , the space agency announced .
That project was part of $ 370 million in new contracts for lunar surface research missions NASA announced Wednesday .
Most of the money went to large space companies like SpaceX and United Launch Alliance to perfect techniques to make and handle rocket propellant in space .
The space agency must quickly develop new technologies for living and working on the moon if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have astronauts working at a lunar base by 2028 , NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a live broadcast .
`` We need power systems that can last a long time on the surface of the moon , and we need habitation capability on the surface , '' Bridenstine said .
Nokia of North America received the contract for the lunar communication project .
Finland-based parent company Nokia owns the U.S. subsidiary .
Nokia and British firm Vodafone had announced their goal for a moon mission in 2018 .
They had planned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Audi , utilizing a SpaceX rocket .
At the time , the companies said they would set down near the Apollo 17 landing site and have rovers examine the Lunar Roving Vehicle , or moon buggy , astronauts left behind in 1972 .
That launch never happened , but the new contract breathes life into Nokia 's plans for moon projects .
`` The system could support lunar surface communications at greater distances , increased speeds and provide more reliability than current standards , '' NASA noted in its contract award announcement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ support communication between lunar landers , rovers , habitats and astronauts , said Jim Reuter , associate administrator for NASA 's Space Technology Mission Directorate .
`` The system would also extend to spacecraft , '' Reuter said .
`` With NASA funding , Nokia will look at how terrestrial technology could be modified for the lunar environment to support reliable , high-rate communications . ''
Nokia did n't respond to questions about the intended landing site for the company 's first mission .
NASA has n't decided on a landing site for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bridenstine reiterated Wednesday that the target is a site near water-ice deposits on the lunar South Pole .
The contracts are geared toward NASA 's Tipping Point program , which funds technologies that , if demonstrated successfully , are likely to be adopted by private industry .
`` We want to build the [ lunar ] infrastructure ... that is going to enable an international partnership for the biggest , broadest , most diverse inclusive coalition of researchers and explorers in the history of humankind , '' Bridenstine said .
Other technologies funded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generation and energy storage .
Houston-based Intuitive Machines , for example , will develop a `` hopping robot '' that could launch and carry small payloads from one lunar site to another .
And Alpha Space , also based in Houston , will create a small laboratory that could land on the moon 's surface and allow researchers to study how the extreme temperatures and radiation affect materials and electronics .

1/3
This is an artist's conception of a lunar lander operated by Vodafone and Nokia that would bring 4G cellular communications and robotic rovers to the moon. Image courtesy of Vodafone
ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 15 (UPI) -- NASA will fund a project by Nokia to build a 4G cellular communication network on the moon with $14.1 million, the space agency announced. That project was part of $370 million in new contracts for lunar surface research missions NASA announced Wednesday. Most of the money went to large space companies like SpaceX and United Launch Alliance to perfect techniques to make and handle rocket propellant in space. Advertisement
The space agency must quickly develop new technologies for living and working on the moon if it wants to realize its goal to have astronauts working at a lunar base by 2028, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a live broadcast.
"We need power systems that can last a long time on the surface of the moon, and we need habitation capability on the surface," Bridenstine said.
Nokia of North America received the contract for the lunar communication project. Finland-based parent company Nokia owns the U.S. subsidiary.
Nokia and British firm Vodafone had announced their goal for a moon mission in 2018. They had planned to launch a lander and rovers built by Audi, utilizing a SpaceX rocket.
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At the time, the companies said they would set down near the Apollo 17 landing site and have rovers examine the Lunar Roving Vehicle, or moon buggy, astronauts left behind in 1972. That launch never happened, but the new contract breathes life into Nokia's plans for moon projects.
"The system could support lunar surface communications at greater distances, increased speeds and provide more reliability than current standards," NASA noted in its contract award announcement.
Having cellular service on the moon could support communication between lunar landers, rovers, habitats and astronauts, said Jim Reuter, associate administrator for NASA's Space Technology Mission Directorate.
"The system would also extend to spacecraft," Reuter said. "With NASA funding, Nokia will look at how terrestrial technology could be modified for the lunar environment to support reliable, high-rate communications."
Nokia didn't respond to questions about the intended landing site for the company's first mission. NASA hasn't decided on a landing site for the agency's Artemis missions, but Bridenstine reiterated Wednesday that the target is a site near water-ice deposits on the lunar South Pole.
The contracts are geared toward NASA's Tipping Point program, which funds technologies that, if demonstrated successfully, are likely to be adopted by private industry.
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"We want to build the [lunar] infrastructure...that is going to enable an international partnership for the biggest, broadest, most diverse inclusive coalition of researchers and explorers in the history of humankind," Bridenstine said.
Other technologies funded Wednesday include demonstrations of lunar surface power generation and energy storage.
Houston-based Intuitive Machines, for example, will develop a "hopping robot" that could launch and carry small payloads from one lunar site to another.
And Alpha Space, also based in Houston, will create a small laboratory that could land on the moon's surface and allow researchers to study how the extreme temperatures and radiation affect materials and electronics.
NASA's women astronauts -- at least one likely to walk on moon


upi--2020-10-15--ALCS: Astros' Carlos Correa forces Game 6 with walk-off homer vs. Rays

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Carlos Correa kept the Astros ' season alive with a walk-off home run off Rays reliever Nick Anderson , giving Houston a 4-3 win over Tampa Bay in Thursday 's Game 5 of the AL Championship Series .
It was Correa 's second career walk-off homer in the postseason , making him the third player in MLB history to accomplish that feat .
With his game-winning blast , the Astros avoided elimination and trimmed the Rays ' daunting three-game series lead to 3-2 .
Game 6 of the ALCS is set for Friday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ force a Game 6 after dropping the first three games of the series .
The 2004 Boston Red Sox are the only team in major league history to come back from a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series .
The Astros took a 1-0 lead in the first inning when George Springer belted a solo homer to left field .
The Rays answered in the third with Brandon Lowe 's solo shot to center .
In the bottom of the third , Michael Brantley plated two runs with a single off Rays reliever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-1 advantage .
Randy Arozarena made it a one-run game in the fifth with a solo shot , and Ji-Man Choi added another home run three innings later to tie the game at three runs apiece .
`` I guess we had the momentum going into the ninth , '' said Choi , who went 2 for 2 with two walks .
`` But no one said it was going to be easy . ''
After Alex Bregman popped out to begin the final inning , Correa immediately halted the Rays ' momentum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We had a meeting after we lost that third game , '' said Correa , who called the walk-off homer in the dugout .
`` We said , 'Hey , we 're not ready to go home , so we 've got to do something about it . '
But we 've still got a long ways to go .
We 've got to keep taking care of business . ''
Luis Garcia got the start for the Astros in a bullpen game and threw two hitless innings , striking out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1-0 ) tossed 1 1/3 innings and allowed one hit to earn the win .
Rays starter John Curtiss gave up one run and one hit in 1 1/3 innings .
Anderson ( 0-1 ) was saddled with the loss .

Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa smashed his second career walk-off home run in the postseason during Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays. File Photo by Trask Smith/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Carlos Correa kept the Astros' season alive with a walk-off home run off Rays reliever Nick Anderson, giving Houston a 4-3 win over Tampa Bay in Thursday's Game 5 of the AL Championship Series. It was Correa's second career walk-off homer in the postseason, making him the third player in MLB history to accomplish that feat. With his game-winning blast, the Astros avoided elimination and trimmed the Rays' daunting three-game series lead to 3-2. Advertisement
Game 6 of the ALCS is set for Friday. Houston is just the fourth team to force a Game 6 after dropping the first three games of the series. The 2004 Boston Red Sox are the only team in major league history to come back from a 3-0 deficit in a best-of-seven series.
The Astros took a 1-0 lead in the first inning when George Springer belted a solo homer to left field. The Rays answered in the third with Brandon Lowe's solo shot to center.
In the bottom of the third, Michael Brantley plated two runs with a single off Rays reliever Josh Fleming, giving the Astros a 3-1 advantage. Randy Arozarena made it a one-run game in the fifth with a solo shot, and Ji-Man Choi added another home run three innings later to tie the game at three runs apiece.
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"I guess we had the momentum going into the ninth," said Choi, who went 2 for 2 with two walks. "But no one said it was going to be easy."
After Alex Bregman popped out to begin the final inning, Correa immediately halted the Rays' momentum with his 416-foot bomb to center field.
"We had a meeting after we lost that third game," said Correa, who called the walk-off homer in the dugout. "We said, 'Hey, we're not ready to go home, so we've got to do something about it.' But we've still got a long ways to go. We've got to keep taking care of business."
Luis Garcia got the start for the Astros in a bullpen game and threw two hitless innings, striking out one and walking two. Ryan Pressly (1-0) tossed 1 1/3 innings and allowed one hit to earn the win.
Rays starter John Curtiss gave up one run and one hit in 1 1/3 innings. Anderson (0-1) was saddled with the loss.


upi--2020-10-15--Los Angeles Clippers to hire Tyronn Lue as new head coach

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue has agreed to a multiyear contract to become the next head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers .
League sources told ESPN and The Athletic that Lue is signing a five-year deal with the Clippers .
According to the outlets , the Clips and Lue 's representative in the contract discussions -- Andy Miller -- completed negotiations on a deal Thursday afternoon .
Lue is replacing veteran coach Doc Rivers , who parted ways with the Clippers last month before becoming the Philadelphia 76ers ' next head coach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received significant support from key Clippers players throughout the search process -- served as an assistant under Rivers last season .
Former NBA champion and five-time All-Star selection Chauncey Billups and veteran coach Larry Drew are expected to join Lue 's coaching staff , according to The Athletic .
Billups is still a possible candidate in the Indiana Pacers ' search for a head coach .
Lue won a championship in 2016 as coach of the Cavaliers and reached the NBA Finals in three consecutive seasons .
As a head coach , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also won two NBA titles as a player with the Los Angeles Lakers .
This past postseason , the Clippers blew a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinals , losing in seven games to the Denver Nuggets .
The team posted a 49-23 record in the regular season -- the fourth-best mark in franchise history .

Former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue agreed to a five-year deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. File Photo by Larry W. Smith/EPA-EFE
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Former Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue has agreed to a multiyear contract to become the next head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers. League sources told ESPN and The Athletic that Lue is signing a five-year deal with the Clippers. According to the outlets, the Clips and Lue's representative in the contract discussions -- Andy Miller -- completed negotiations on a deal Thursday afternoon. Advertisement
Lue is replacing veteran coach Doc Rivers, who parted ways with the Clippers last month before becoming the Philadelphia 76ers' next head coach. The 43-year-old Lue -- who has received significant support from key Clippers players throughout the search process -- served as an assistant under Rivers last season.
Former NBA champion and five-time All-Star selection Chauncey Billups and veteran coach Larry Drew are expected to join Lue's coaching staff, according to The Athletic. Billups is still a possible candidate in the Indiana Pacers' search for a head coach.
Lue won a championship in 2016 as coach of the Cavaliers and reached the NBA Finals in three consecutive seasons. As a head coach, he holds a 128-83 overall record.
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Lue also won two NBA titles as a player with the Los Angeles Lakers.
This past postseason, the Clippers blew a 3-1 lead in the Western Conference semifinals, losing in seven games to the Denver Nuggets. The team posted a 49-23 record in the regular season -- the fourth-best mark in franchise history.


upi--2020-10-15--Houston Rockets' Daryl Morey steps down as general manager

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey is stepping down from his role after 13 seasons running the franchise 's basketball operations , the Rockets announced Thursday .
After Houston 's elimination from the NBA playoffs inside the bubble in Orlando , Fla. , Morey approached team owner Tilman Fertitta about leaving the position , according to ESPN .
Both sides worked through an agreement to end his 13-year tenure as general manager and 14 years overall with the organization .
`` After discussing my thoughts with family and close friends , I 've decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rockets organization effective November 1st , '' Morey said in a statement Thursday .
`` Tilman and I have had many conversations since I returned , and his unwavering support and counsel during our time together has been critical to our success .
`` It has been the most gratifying experience of my professional life to lead the Rockets basketball organization , and I look forward to working with Tilman and the management team on the transition .
I am very confident that the future -- for the Rockets , and for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and that the Rockets will continue to perform at the highest level . ''
Morey , who has n't ruled out a future return to the NBA on the team side , will remain in an advisory role for a brief period to help in the Rockets ' head-coaching search , according to ESPN .
Former head coach Mike D'Antoni and the Rockets parted ways last month .
The Rockets are planning to promote executive vice president of basketball operations Rafael Stone to general manager .
According to reports , Houston also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manager .
`` On behalf of the entire Rockets organization , I would like to thank Daryl Morey for his hard work and dedication over the past 14 seasons , '' Fertitta said in a statement .
`` Daryl is a brilliant innovator who helped the Rockets become a perennial contender .
`` I have truly enjoyed working with Daryl and could n't have asked for a better general manager to have at the start of my ownership .
I wish him and his family all the best . ''
Under Morey , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each of the past eight seasons -- the league 's longest current streak .
That streak has included two trips to the Western Conference finals .
Despite the Rockets ' success on the court , Morey 's final season on the job became engulfed in scrutiny after his tweet supporting freedom in Hong Kong led to China pulling the NBA off its broadcasts and suspending sponsorship agreements .
China ended its one-year ban of NBA games during the NBA Finals this month .
NBA commissioner Adam Silver and Fertitta supported Morey , despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Silver later estimated that the league lost about $ 400 million in revenue due to the severed relationship with China .

Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey spent the past 14 seasons with the Rockets organization. File Photo by Aaron M. Sprecher/EPA-EFE
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey is stepping down from his role after 13 seasons running the franchise's basketball operations, the Rockets announced Thursday. After Houston's elimination from the NBA playoffs inside the bubble in Orlando, Fla., Morey approached team owner Tilman Fertitta about leaving the position, according to ESPN. Both sides worked through an agreement to end his 13-year tenure as general manager and 14 years overall with the organization. Advertisement
"After discussing my thoughts with family and close friends, I've decided I'll be stepping away from the Rockets organization effective November 1st," Morey said in a statement Thursday. "Tilman and I have had many conversations since I returned, and his unwavering support and counsel during our time together has been critical to our success.
"It has been the most gratifying experience of my professional life to lead the Rockets basketball organization, and I look forward to working with Tilman and the management team on the transition. I am very confident that the future -- for the Rockets, and for our incredible fans -- is in great hands, and that the Rockets will continue to perform at the highest level."
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Morey, who hasn't ruled out a future return to the NBA on the team side, will remain in an advisory role for a brief period to help in the Rockets' head-coaching search, according to ESPN. Former head coach Mike D'Antoni and the Rockets parted ways last month.
The Rockets are planning to promote executive vice president of basketball operations Rafael Stone to general manager. According to reports, Houston also is promoting Eli Witus to assistant general manager.
"On behalf of the entire Rockets organization, I would like to thank Daryl Morey for his hard work and dedication over the past 14 seasons," Fertitta said in a statement. "Daryl is a brilliant innovator who helped the Rockets become a perennial contender.
"I have truly enjoyed working with Daryl and couldn't have asked for a better general manager to have at the start of my ownership. I wish him and his family all the best."
Under Morey, the Rockets have reached the postseason in each of the past eight seasons -- the league's longest current streak. That streak has included two trips to the Western Conference finals.
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Despite the Rockets' success on the court, Morey's final season on the job became engulfed in scrutiny after his tweet supporting freedom in Hong Kong led to China pulling the NBA off its broadcasts and suspending sponsorship agreements. China ended its one-year ban of NBA games during the NBA Finals this month.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver and Fertitta supported Morey, despite China's calls for his firing. Silver later estimated that the league lost about $400 million in revenue due to the severed relationship with China.


upi--2020-10-15--Biden urges state, local leaders to mandate COVID-19 vaccine

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Appearing in an ABC town hall Thursday night , Joe Biden said as president he 'd lean on state and local leaders to implement COVID-19 vaccine mandates once one becomes available .
The Democratic presidential nominee opened up the town hall taking President Donald Trump to task for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and offering his own answers .
`` He missed enormous opportunities and kept saying things that were n't true , '' Biden said of Trump .
`` 'It 's going to go away by Easter .
Do n't worry about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's all going to go away like a miracle . '
He 's still saying all those things . ''
The former vice president said there should have been earlier national standards on how to limit the spread of the virus , including a mask mandate .
When asked whether he would mandate for all Americans to take a COVID-19 vaccine once one 's available , Biden said `` it depends on the state and the nature of the vaccine when it comes out and how it 's being distributed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be difficult to enforce completely , comparing it to measles vaccines required by schools .
`` We should be thinking about making it mandatory , '' he said , adding that he 'd ask governors , mayors and council members to encourage and mandate vaccines .
The former vice president 's appearance began at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC News and was expected to last for 90 minutes .
In addition to watching their local ABC channel , viewers can stream the event on ABCnews.com or the ABC mobile app .
The town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Center in Philadelphia .
Biden signed up for the ABC event after Trump refused to participate in a virtual town hall-style debate that was supposed to take place Thursday night .
The Commission on Presidential Debates made the debate virtual after Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19 .
Trump called such a virtual debate `` ridiculous '' and a `` waste of time . ''
ABC News political analyst George Stephanopoulos moderated Biden 's town hall .
The campaign said the event complied with all government and health safety recommendations .
Trump 's Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8 p.m and aired on NBC News .
The final debate between Trump and Biden is scheduled for Oct. 22 at Belmont University in Nashville .

Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden was heavy on details on a variety of subjects Thursday night -- including COVID-19, the Supreme Court, racial and LGBT equality and climate change -- at his town hall event in Philadelphia, which was broadcast by ABC News.
ABC News political analyst George Stephanopoulos moderated the 90-minute event.
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COVID-19
The Democratic presidential nominee opened up the town hall taking President Donald Trump to task for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and offering his own answers.
"He missed enormous opportunities and kept saying things that weren't true," Biden said of Trump.
"'It's going to go away by Easter. Don't worry about it. ... When the summer comes, it's all going to go away like a miracle.' He's still saying all those things."
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The former vice president said there should have been earlier national standards on how to limit the spread of the virus, including a face mask mandate.
When asked whether he would require all Americans to take a COVID-19 vaccine once one's available, Biden said, "It depends on the state and the nature of the vaccine when it comes out and how it's being distributed."
Biden acknowledged such a mandate would be difficult to enforce completely, comparing it to measles vaccines required by schools.
"We should be thinking about making it mandatory," he said, adding that he'd ask governors, mayors and council members to encourage and mandate vaccines.
He added a vaccine at the earliest may be ready by next spring but he is "worried about" the lack of a distribution plan for when one does come available.
Supreme Court
Biden offered his most complete answer to date when asked whether he would "pack" the Supreme Court if he were elected president.
Previously, he'd declined to answer the question, saying whatever answer he gave would distract voters from Republicans rushing to confirm Trump nominee Amy Coney Barett on the high court bench.
"No matter what I answer I gave you, that's the headline tomorrow," he said. "It won't be about what's going on now, the improper way they're proceeding."
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Biden did not dismiss the idea that he could possibly expand the size of the Supreme Court as president -- but promised that he would consult with members of Congress and a number of top legal experts and advisers on the matter.
Biden did say he's "not a fan" of court-packing and promised announce a full and direct answer on the question before Election Day, after the Senate concludes its confirmation process for Barrett.
Racial equality
Biden took some heated questions from the audience concerning courting Black voters and his support of a 1990s crime bill that has been widely criticized for discriminating against people of color.
A young Black student asked Biden, beside stelling them "you ain't Black," a comment the former vice president made that he has said he regrets, how will he convince Black Americans he is not part of a system that fails to protect them.
Biden responded that Black men and women could determine the outcome of this election, touting his economic and education policies as evidence of his worthiness for their vote.
"We have to be able to put Black Americans in a position to gain wealth, generate wealth," he said.
To accomplish that, he proposed increased funding for Title I low-income schools from $15 billion to $45 billion a year, allowing each teacher in those schools to earn a salary of up to $60,000. All children from the age of 3 would also go to school, which would increase their chances of graduating by nearly 60%, and more social workers and psychologists will be staffed at educational institutions, he said.
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He also said he would provide historically black universities with $70 billion in new funding to give them foundational support for endowments.
First-time home buyers will also receive a guaranteed $15,000 credit toward their down payment, he said.
"It's about accumulating wealth," he said. "You're behind an 8 ball. The vast majority of people of color are behind an 8 ball."
He then fielded a question concerning his support of the 1994 Violent Crime and Law Enforcement Act that has been widely blamed for incarcerating people of color.
Asked if his support of it was a mistake, Biden said, "Yes, it was."
He said there was some good in the bill, but that he opposes its increased funding to state prison systems.
Biden added that he also believes no one should go to jail for drug use offenses, they should undergo mandatory rehabilitation, while marijuana should be decriminalized and those arrested under such offenses should have their records cleaned.
"We got to change the system ... changing the system from punishment to rehabilitation," he said.
Foreign policy
On foreign policy, Biden said the Trump administration has made the United States less secure by isolating it more than its ever been.
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"America first has made America alone," he said. "You have Iran closer to having enough nuclear material to build a bomb. North Korea has more bombs and missiles available to it. We find ourselves with our NATO allies saying they publicly can't count on us."
He said Trump deserves some credit for bringing Israel together with its Arab neighbors, but he also "embraces all the thugs in the world" amid a rise in authoritarian regimes.
"If you take a look, we're not very well trusted around the world," he said.
Biden said Trump is "literally" laughed at when he goes to the United Nations.
"So I would respectfully suggest no, there is no plan -- no coherent plan for foreign policy," he said.
LGBTQ rights
Biden took a strong stance concerning laws Trump has made that either reverse or roll back transgender rights, stating that he would undo them.
"I would flat out just change the law," he said, responding to a question about his stance on Trump's moves that bar transgendered people from serving in the military, among others. "I would eliminate those executive orders."
He said there should be "zero discrimination," voicing support of LGBTQ rights.
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Climate change
Biden spent a segment talking about his plans for creating high-paying jobs while investing heavily in clean energies.
While saying he would not ban fracking, "it has to be managed very, very well." And he said the country would eventually have to wean itself off fossil fuels in part by ending billions in federal subsidies on oil and gas operations.
He also said again that as president he would not ban fracking and reiterated that he opposes the Green New Deal proposed by progressive Democrats, insisting that his environmental plan is better.
Biden signed up for the event after Trump refused to participate in a virtual town hall-style debate that was supposed to take place Thursday night. The Commission on Presidential Debates made the debate virtual after Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19.
Trump called such a virtual debate "ridiculous" and a "waste of time."
Instead, Trump held his own town hall in Miami, broadcast by NBC, where he was pressed by questions on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court and healthcare.
The final debate between Trump and Biden is scheduled for Oct. 22 at Belmont University in Nashville.


upi--2020-10-15--Miami town hall: Trump doesn't remember if he was tested before first debate

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump said Thursday that he does n't recall if he was tested for COVID-19 before the first debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden days before he tested positive for the virus .
Appearing in a town hall event scheduled to compete with Biden on another network after declining to participate in a digital debate , Trump said he `` possibly '' was tested before the debate but could not say for sure .
`` If you ask the doctor they 'll give you a perfect answer ... but they take a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about my business , '' said Trump .
Trump also said that he had no remaining symptoms of COVID-19 , 10 days after being discharged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he received three days of treatment for the virus .
`` I 'm great , I feel good , '' the president said , noting he has held rallies in Florida , Pennsylvania and North Carolina since his release .
Trump also did not expressly state if he experienced pneumonia after testing positive for the virus , saying doctors told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit different , a little bit perhaps infected , '' without clarifying what the infection was .
The president added that he was admitted to the hospital at the encouragement of his doctors following the positive test .
`` I did n't feel good , I did n't feel strong , I had a little bit of a temperature .
The doctors at the White House are fantastic , as you can imagine .
They really did n't want to take a chance and they said 'Let 's go to the hospital , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the event Wednesday to coincide with ABC 's town hall for Biden at the same time .
Both events are taking place when the two presidential contenders were supposed to be taking part in their second debate .
The town hall-style debate was canceled after Trump refused to participate because of format changes .
The Commission on Presidential Debates made the event virtual after Trump tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the month .
`` I 'm not going to waste my time on a virtual debate , '' Trump said .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's not acceptable to us . ''
For Trump 's event , Guthrie is positioned at least 12 feet away from the president .
The event abided by recommended distancing guidelines , the network said .
The audience was required to wear masks , answer a symptoms questionnaire and submit to a temperature check beforehand .
Dr. Clifford Lane , clinical director at the National Institutes of Health , told NBC News in a letter that he and Dr. Anthony Fauci have reviewed Trump 's recent medical data and determined `` with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president is `` not shedding infectious virus . ''

Oct. 15 (UPI) -- After backing out of a virtual debate with Democratic challenger Joe Biden, President Donald Trump participated in a town hall event in Miami on Thursday night, where he was pressed by questions on his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court and healthcare.
Trump's one-hour town hall event was held outdoors at Miami's Perez Art Museum and was moderated by NBC host Savannah Guthrie.
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Supreme Court
Trump said he shifted his opinion on Supreme Court nominations after witnessing Justice Brett Kavanaugh being "treated so badly" during his confirmation process.
Trump cited Kavanaugh's hearing, after being asked by Guthrie why he chose to nominate conservative jurist Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court after previously saying former President Barack Obama should not have made a nomination to the court before the 2016 election.
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"The whole ball game changed when I saw the way they treated Justice Kavanaugh," Trump said of the process where Kavanaugh faced allegations of sexual assault. "I have never seen any human being, and I'm not just talking about Supreme Court ... I have never seen a human being treated so badly with false accusations and everything else."
The Senate judiciary committee on Thursday set Oct. 22 as the date it will vote whether to recommend Barrett's nomination to the full chamber following four days of testimony.
Trump, when asked if he expected Barrett to vote in his favor if the result of November's election is placed before the Supreme Court said he "never asked her" about the issue.
"It would be totally up to her. I think that she would be able to rule either for me or against me, I don't see any conflict whatsoever," Trump said.
The president also answered similarly when asked if he would like to see Barrett overturn the landmark abortion case Roe vs. Wade, declining to comment as he said it would be "inappropriate" to potentially influence her ruling.
"I would like to see a brilliant jurist, a brilliant person, who has done this in great depth and has actually skirted this issue for a long time to make a decision. And that's why I chose her," Trump said. "I think she's going to make a great decision."
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COVID-19
Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden participated in competing town halls on separate networks Thursday night as the president refused to take part in a virtual debate requested by the Commission on Presidential Debates after he tested positive for COVID-19 at the beginning of this month.
"I'm not going to waste my time on a virtual debate," Trump said at the time. "The commission changed the debate style and that's not acceptable to us."
Biden participated in his own town hall in Philadelphia, broadcast by ABC in the same time slot. His conversation with participants was heavy on details on a variety of policy issues, including the Supreme Court, racial and LGBT equality and climate change and criticism of Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the Miami event, Trump said that he could not recall if he was tested for COVID-19 before the first debate with Biden in late September, days before he tested positive for the virus.
Trump said he "possibly" was tested before the debate but could not say for sure.
"If you ask the doctor they'll give you a perfect answer ... but they take a test and I leave and I go about my business," said Trump.
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Trump also said that he had no remaining symptoms of COVID-19, 10 days after being discharged from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he received three days of treatment for the virus.
"I'm great, I feel good," the president said, noting he has held rallies in Florida, Pennsylvania and North Carolina since his release.
Trump did not expressly state if he experienced pneumonia after testing positive for the virus, saying doctors told him his lungs were "a little bit different, a little bit perhaps infected," without clarifying what the infection was.
The president added that he was admitted to the hospital at the encouragement of his doctors following the positive test.
"I didn't feel good, I didn't feel strong, I had a little bit of a temperature. The doctors at the White House are fantastic, as you can imagine. They really didn't want to take a chance and they said 'Let's go to the hospital,'" Trump said.
Trump also weighed in on ongoing negotiations for another round of economic stimulus in response to the pandemic, blaming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., for the holdup but signaling that the White House is prepared for a deal.
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"Nancy Pelosi, we are ready to sign and pass stimulus," he said.
Last week, Trump called for an end to negotiations but quickly changed course, urging Republicans to "go big" and saying he would support a larger sum than both parties have proposed.
Democrats have remained steadfast in their push for a $2.2 trillion deal including funding for state and local governments, while Republicans have called for a smaller, more focused release package.
Trump on Thursday night however claimed that Republicans would support a larger bill if he and Pelosi are able to reach a deal.
"If Nancy Pelosi and I, through my representatives or directly, I don't care ... if we agree to something, the Republicans will agree to it," he said.
Healthcare
Responding to a question from a voter, Trump repeated his 2016 campaign pledge that he would "repeal and replace" the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, while promising to protect Americans with pre-existing conditions.
"The problem with Obamacare [is that] it's not good, we'd like to terminate it and we want much less expensive healthcare, that's a much better healthcare and that's what we're aiming for," Trump said.
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Guthrie questioned Trump about his administration's failure to pass a replacement for the healthcare legislation put in place by his predecessor, despite Republicans holding both chambers of Congress early in his presidency.
"If we don't succeed, we are running the remnants of whatever is left ... much better than the previous administration, which ran it very badly," Trump said.
Trump was also asked about a Supreme Court case set for a week after the election regarding a challenge to the constitutionality of the law, threatening to scrap the program and the protections for people with pre-existing conditions included in it.
He touted the removal of the individual mandate, which requires people to carry a minimum level of health insurance coverage with a tax penalty imposed against those who do not comply, as part of Trump's Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
In September, Trump signed a series of orders that "laid out his vision" for a healthcare system he called the America First Healthcare Plan, including guaranteeing care for people with pre-existing conditions that was largely seen as a symbolic gesture.
Elections
Trump on Thursday repeated claims about fraud related to mail-in ballots when asked whether he would peacefully transfer power if defeated in November's elections.
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Guthrie countered his claims, citing testimony by FBI Director Christopher Wray last month in which he stated there was no evidence of a "coordinated national voter fraud effort" and that it would be a "major challenge for an adversary" to carry out such fraud.
The president responded that if that was the case then he believes Wray is "not doing a very good job."
He also accused Democrats of spying on his 2016 campaign and decried impeachment proceedings at the beginning of the year regarding his interactions with Ukraine as an attempt to remove him from office.
"They tried to take down a duly elected, sitting president and then they talk about 'Will you accept a peaceful transfer?'" Trump said. "And the answer is yes, I will. But I want it to be an honest election and so does everybody else."


upi--2020-10-15--Fairchild, Shaw and Ellsworth AFBs make productivity gains

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- The Air Force on Thursday recognized three bases for progress on sustainment initiatives intended to increase aircraft readiness .
The sustainment initiatives were the result of the secretary and chief of staff of the Air Force 's 2019 direction to develop a better framework to improve the readiness of weapon systems and sustainment operations , according to the Air Force .
`` We developed a team to institute the Theory of Constraints on several flight lines across the service in an effort to enhance our maintenance processes , '' said Brig .
Gen. Linda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chief of staff for logistics , engineering and force protection .
`` In just six months we were already seeing results at Fairchild , Ellsworth and Shaw Air Force Bases . ''
The Theory of Constraints is a methodology for identifying addressing limitations in mission processes to improve throughput , and at each of the three bases in question , constraints in the flow of broken-to-fixed aircraft were identified and remediated .
`` You improve flow by removing unnecessary maintenance multitasking and by preparing through full kitting to begin work on maintenance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce the number of aircraft in a 'work-in-progress ' status and ultimately our broke-to-fixed aircraft timeline . ''
At Fairchild Air Force Base near Spokane , Washington , leaders increased 19 aircraft to their fleet and decreased the amount of time needed to complete inspections by pooling resources and preparing in advance .
That increased the availability of aircraft by 1,500 days , according to the Air Force .
At Ellsworth AFB near Rapid City , S.D.
, leaders worked to control work in progress and combine maintenance requirements .
The result , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in the number of flyable aircraft per day and a decrease in the maintenance deviation rate .
At South Carolina 's Shaw AFB , leaders set a goal of improving the mission capable rate through strategic combinations of maintenance requirements , with a resulting 15.8 % increase in mission capable rate and 14.4 % decrease in non-mission capable rate on the proof of concept aircraft .
`` We 've seen this model work incredibly well at depots where you do heavy maintenance repair and overhaul on the airplanes but it can work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line , particularly for scheduled maintenance activities , '' Lt. Gen. Warren Berry , deputy chief of staff for logistics , engineering and force protection , said .
`` That 's what we 're doing today , we 're taking that whole idea and pushing it to the field level and testing it . ''

A B-1B Lancer takes off from Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D., Dec. 9, 2019. Photo by Christina Bennett/U.S. Air Force
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The Air Force on Thursday recognized three bases for progress on sustainment initiatives intended to increase aircraft readiness. The sustainment initiatives were the result of the secretary and chief of staff of the Air Force's 2019 direction to develop a better framework to improve the readiness of weapon systems and sustainment operations, according to the Air Force. Advertisement
"We developed a team to institute the Theory of Constraints on several flight lines across the service in an effort to enhance our maintenance processes," said Brig. Gen. Linda Hurry, director of logistics, deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering and force protection. "In just six months we were already seeing results at Fairchild, Ellsworth and Shaw Air Force Bases."
The Theory of Constraints is a methodology for identifying addressing limitations in mission processes to improve throughput, and at each of the three bases in question, constraints in the flow of broken-to-fixed aircraft were identified and remediated.
"You improve flow by removing unnecessary maintenance multitasking and by preparing through full kitting to begin work on maintenance," Hurry said. "This will reduce the number of aircraft in a 'work-in-progress' status and ultimately our broke-to-fixed aircraft timeline."
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At Fairchild Air Force Base near Spokane, Washington, leaders increased 19 aircraft to their fleet and decreased the amount of time needed to complete inspections by pooling resources and preparing in advance.
That increased the availability of aircraft by 1,500 days, according to the Air Force.
At Ellsworth AFB near Rapid City, S.D., leaders worked to control work in progress and combine maintenance requirements.
The result, the Air Force said, is an increase in the number of flyable aircraft per day and a decrease in the maintenance deviation rate.
At South Carolina's Shaw AFB, leaders set a goal of improving the mission capable rate through strategic combinations of maintenance requirements, with a resulting 15.8% increase in mission capable rate and 14.4% decrease in non-mission capable rate on the proof of concept aircraft.
"We've seen this model work incredibly well at depots where you do heavy maintenance repair and overhaul on the airplanes but it can work just as well at the tactical flight line, particularly for scheduled maintenance activities," Lt. Gen. Warren Berry, deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering and force protection, said. "That's what we're doing today, we're taking that whole idea and pushing it to the field level and testing it."
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upi--2020-10-15--Ex-New York Jets RB Le'Veon Bell signing with Kansas City Chiefs

Oct. 15 ( UPI ) -- Former New York Jets running back Le'Veon Bell is signing a short-term contract with the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs .
League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Thursday that Bell , who was released by the Jets earlier this week , will sign a one-year deal with the Chiefs .
According to the outlets , the Pro Bowl tailback narrowed his choices to the Miami Dolphins , Buffalo Bills and Chiefs before choosing Kansas City .
The 28-year-old Bell will be required to go through five days of COVID-19 testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to league protocols , meaning he will be unavailable to play in the team 's upcoming game against the Bills on Monday .
The Jets released Bell -- who was frustrated with the organization over his lack of involvement in the offense -- on Tuesday after failing to find a trade partner for the running back .
Bell , a three-time Pro Bowl selection , was a disappointment since signing a four-year , $ 52.5 million contract with the Jets last year .
He averaged only 3.3 yards per carry , ranking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the league during that span .
In 17 games with the Jets , Bell recorded 863 rushing yards and three touchdowns .
The Chiefs lost starting running back Damien Williams before the beginning of the season when he opted out for coronavirus-related reasons .
Kansas City also has rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire , Darrel Williams , Darwin Thompson and DeAndre Washington in the backfield .

Former New York Jets running back Le'Veon Bell (26), who was released by the franchise earlier this week, agreed to a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 15 (UPI) -- Former New York Jets running back Le'Veon Bell is signing a short-term contract with the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Thursday that Bell, who was released by the Jets earlier this week, will sign a one-year deal with the Chiefs. According to the outlets, the Pro Bowl tailback narrowed his choices to the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills and Chiefs before choosing Kansas City. Advertisement
The 28-year-old Bell will be required to go through five days of COVID-19 testing before he can join the Chiefs, according to league protocols, meaning he will be unavailable to play in the team's upcoming game against the Bills on Monday.
The Jets released Bell -- who was frustrated with the organization over his lack of involvement in the offense -- on Tuesday after failing to find a trade partner for the running back.
Kansas City, #ChiefsKingdom, thank you for the opportunity let's go! pic.twitter.com/6aEY9GaoA7— Le'Veon Bell (@LeVeonBell) October 15, 2020 Advertisement
Bell, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, was a disappointment since signing a four-year, $52.5 million contract with the Jets last year. He averaged only 3.3 yards per carry, ranking 51st out of 53 qualifying runners in the league during that span.
In 17 games with the Jets, Bell recorded 863 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
The Chiefs lost starting running back Damien Williams before the beginning of the season when he opted out for coronavirus-related reasons. Kansas City also has rookie Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Darrel Williams, Darwin Thompson and DeAndre Washington in the backfield.