upi--2020-07-22--Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun testifies China is working to steal U.S. COVID-19 technolog

Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun testifies China is working to steal U.S. COVID-19 technologies

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun testified Wednesday that China has been working to steal U.S. technologies to treat COVID-19 and arresting those who speak up about the threat of the virus .
Responding to questions by Sen. Cory Gardner , R-Colo. , Biegun cited Justice Department indictments unsealed Tuesday , alleging Chinese hackers sought to steal U.S. intellectual property including COVID-19 research .
`` We have firm evidence to suggest that Chinese hackers working in close association with Chinese national security institutions have in fact been trying to steal information related to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
Biegun also referred to an extensive history of the Chinese government silencing dissenting voices when asked if they were `` disappearing '' health officials and others who warned of the dangers of the coronavirus outbreak .
`` China has been arresting dissenting voices for my entire career but in recent months we have seen , in particular , this focus has turned against those who spoke up -- particularly early on -- about the COVID virus in Wuhan , absolutely , '' he said .
Biegun added he believes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being `` severely mistreated '' but stopped short of declaring the treatment torture , despite a push from Gardner .
`` Torture is a legal definition and I do n't simply have the evidence available to me to make that statement as a legal matter , '' he said .
Biegun was sworn in to his deputy post in December .
He was special representative for North Korea for 16 months in 2018 and 2019 .
U.S.-China relations have declined since President Donald Trump took office in 2017 .
A lengthy trade conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the origins of the coronavirus pandemic have soured political ties .
Earlier Wednesday , Beijing condemned the Trump administration for closing a Chinese consulate in Houston -- a move the State Department said was intended to `` protect American intellectual property and Americans ' private information . ''
The Chinese government promised `` legitimate and necessary '' countermeasures if the consulate is n't allowed to reopen .
Sen. Bob Menendez , D-N.J. , questioned the administration 's approach on China saying it `` labors under the mistaken belief that just being confrontational is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while referencing the decision to close the consulate .
`` I 'm all for safeguarding our national security , I understand the importance of being tough with China , but being tough is the means , not the ends , '' he said .
`` So while there may be a reason for taking this action ...
I want to understand better not just the tactical considerations , but how this measure advances our strategy . ''

U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on January 15. Diplomacy between Washington and Beijing is the topic of a hearing Wednesday in the Senate foreign relations committee. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun testified Wednesday that China has been working to steal U.S. technologies to treat COVID-19 and arresting those who speak up about the threat of the virus. Responding to questions by Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., Biegun cited Justice Department indictments unsealed Tuesday, alleging Chinese hackers sought to steal U.S. intellectual property including COVID-19 research. Advertisement
"We have firm evidence to suggest that Chinese hackers working in close association with Chinese national security institutions have in fact been trying to steal information related to the development of technologies to treat coronavirus," he said.
Biegun also referred to an extensive history of the Chinese government silencing dissenting voices when asked if they were "disappearing" health officials and others who warned of the dangers of the coronavirus outbreak.
"China has been arresting dissenting voices for my entire career but in recent months we have seen, in particular, this focus has turned against those who spoke up -- particularly early on -- about the COVID virus in Wuhan, absolutely," he said.
Biegun added he believes the Uyghur Muslim population in China is being "severely mistreated" but stopped short of declaring the treatment torture, despite a push from Gardner.
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"Torture is a legal definition and I don't simply have the evidence available to me to make that statement as a legal matter," he said.
Biegun was sworn in to his deputy post in December. He was special representative for North Korea for 16 months in 2018 and 2019.
U.S.-China relations have declined since President Donald Trump took office in 2017. A lengthy trade conflict, accusations of theft and implications over the origins of the coronavirus pandemic have soured political ties.
Earlier Wednesday, Beijing condemned the Trump administration for closing a Chinese consulate in Houston -- a move the State Department said was intended to "protect American intellectual property and Americans' private information."
The Chinese government promised "legitimate and necessary" countermeasures if the consulate isn't allowed to reopen.
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., questioned the administration's approach on China saying it "labors under the mistaken belief that just being confrontational is the same thing as being competitive" while referencing the decision to close the consulate.
"I'm all for safeguarding our national security, I understand the importance of being tough with China, but being tough is the means, not the ends," he said. "So while there may be a reason for taking this action ... I want to understand better not just the tactical considerations, but how this measure advances our strategy."


upi--2020-07-22--Ex-officer Derek Chauvin, wife face tax fraud charges

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The former Minneapolis police officer accused of second-degree murder in the death of George Floyd was charged with tax fraud Wednesday .
Derek Chauvin and his wife , Kellie Chauvin , each face nine counts of tax fraud for allegedly underreporting their income by nearly $ 500,000 from 2014 to 2019 .
Washington County prosecutors said the couple did n't file any tax returns from 2016-18 .
The couple allegedly owe the state of Minnesota more than $ 21,000 in taxes as well as a $ 17,000 penalty .
`` When you fail to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay taxes , you are taking money from the pockets of citizens of Minnesota , '' said Washington County Attorney Pete Orput .
`` Our office has and will continue to file these charges when presented .
Whether you are a prosecutor or police officer , or you are doctor or a realtor , no one is above the law . ''
The Chauvins ' taxes came under scrutiny after Derek Chauvin was arrested for his involvement in Floyd 's death on May 25 .
He was recorded on video kneeling on Floyd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Floyd repeatedly said he could n't breathe .
Derek Chauvin and three other Minneapolis officers were arrested Floyd for allegedly attempting to use a counterfeit $ 20 bill at a food store .
The other former officers -- J. Alexander Kueng , Thomas Lane and Tou Thao -- face charges of aiding and abetting second-degree murder and manslaughter .
All four men were fired the day after Floyd 's death .
The incident sparked worldwide protests against racial bias and police brutality and forced many law enforcement agencies to review and reform @ @ @ @ @ @ @

In addition to a second-degree murder charge, former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin also faces nine counts of tax fraud. File Photo courtesy Ramsey County Sheriff's Office | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- The former Minneapolis police officer accused of second-degree murder in the death of George Floyd was charged with tax fraud Wednesday. Derek Chauvin and his wife, Kellie Chauvin, each face nine counts of tax fraud for allegedly underreporting their income by nearly $500,000 from 2014 to 2019. Washington County prosecutors said the couple didn't file any tax returns from 2016-18. Advertisement
The couple allegedly owe the state of Minnesota more than $21,000 in taxes as well as a $17,000 penalty.
"When you fail to fulfill the basic obligation to file and pay taxes, you are taking money from the pockets of citizens of Minnesota," said Washington County Attorney Pete Orput. "Our office has and will continue to file these charges when presented. Whether you are a prosecutor or police officer, or you are doctor or a realtor, no one is above the law."
The Chauvins' taxes came under scrutiny after Derek Chauvin was arrested for his involvement in Floyd's death on May 25. He was recorded on video kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than 8 minutes as Floyd repeatedly said he couldn't breathe.
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Derek Chauvin and three other Minneapolis officers were arrested Floyd for allegedly attempting to use a counterfeit $20 bill at a food store.
The other former officers -- J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane and Tou Thao -- face charges of aiding and abetting second-degree murder and manslaughter. All four men were fired the day after Floyd's death.
The incident sparked worldwide protests against racial bias and police brutality and forced many law enforcement agencies to review and reform their policies on use of force.


upi--2020-07-22--Ex-Steelers Pro Bowler, NCAA wrestling champ Carlton Haselrig dies

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Carlton Haselrig , a former Pro Bowl offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers and NCAA wrestling champion , died Wednesday .
He was 54 .
Haselrig , who wrestled at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown , died of natural causes , according to the school .
He had been in declining health in recent years .
Haselrig -- who won 122 consecutive matches at one point -- is the only wrestler in NCAA history to win six individual national championships .
He captured the Division II heavyweight division titles in 1987-89 and won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that same span .
His dominance led to the formation of the `` Haselrig Rule , '' which prevents lower division wrestlers from competing at the Division I level .
Haselrig , who did n't play a single snap of college football due to injuries , spent five years in the NFL after the Steelers selected him in the 12th round of the 1990 draft .
He was a Pro Bowler and All-Pro in 1992 with Pittsburgh and had a one-year stint with the New York Jets in 1995 , but his career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with alcohol and substance abuse .
He later attempted a career in mixed martial arts in the late 2000s , posting a 3-2 record before retiring .
Haselrig , born in Johnstown , Pa. , was inducted into the Pitt-Johnstown Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009 .
He also is a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Division II Wrestling Hall of Fame .
Haselrig is survived by his wife , Michelle , and nine children .

July 22 (UPI) -- Carlton Haselrig, a former Pro Bowl offensive lineman for the Pittsburgh Steelers and NCAA wrestling champion, died Wednesday. He was 54.
Haselrig, who wrestled at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, died of natural causes, according to the school. He had been in declining health in recent years.
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Haselrig -- who won 122 consecutive matches at one point -- is the only wrestler in NCAA history to win six individual national championships. He captured the Division II heavyweight division titles in 1987-89 and won the Division I championship each year in that same span.
His dominance led to the formation of the "Haselrig Rule," which prevents lower division wrestlers from competing at the Division I level.
Haselrig, who didn't play a single snap of college football due to injuries, spent five years in the NFL after the Steelers selected him in the 12th round of the 1990 draft. He was a Pro Bowler and All-Pro in 1992 with Pittsburgh and had a one-year stint with the New York Jets in 1995, but his career was cut short due to a battle with alcohol and substance abuse.
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He later attempted a career in mixed martial arts in the late 2000s, posting a 3-2 record before retiring.
Pitt-Johnstown Mourns The Loss of Six-Time NCAA National Champion Carlton Haselrig https://t.co/kvPxeiuS6l— PittJohnstownSports (@MtnCatAthletics) July 22, 2020
Haselrig, born in Johnstown, Pa., was inducted into the Pitt-Johnstown Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009. He also is a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Division II Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Haselrig is survived by his wife, Michelle, and nine children.


upi--2020-07-22--California Gold Fire burns 14,000 acres in 2 days; Hog Fire grows to 9,420 acres

July 22 ( UPI ) -- A pair of wildfires in Northern California have collectively burned more than 23,000 acres over four days and prompted a number of evacuations .
Cal Fire said the Gold Fire has burned 14,000 acres south of Adin since it began on Monday , while the Hog Fire 50 miles south has burned 9,420 acres since it was first reported on Saturday west of Susanville .
Both blazes are located in Lassen County .
The Gold Fire is 5 % contained and a Red Flag Warning in the county will remain in effect until 9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which increase the possibility of more ignitions in the area .
Cal Fire said the Hog Fire was 9 % contained and an essential fiber optic cable was damaged by the fire early Monday .
The blaze has threatened 170 structures and more than 200 fire personnel including engines , dozers and water tenders were deployed .
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for all residents along Highway 139 from Susanville Road south to Termo Grasshopper Road , areas south of Ash Valley Road , west of Spooner Road , east of Highway 139 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as areas west of Highway 139 , south of Haydenhill Road , East of Anderson Ranch Road/Dixie Valley Road and north of Long Flat Road , the Lassen County Sheriff 's Office said .
Highway 139 was also closed from Susanville Road to Termo Grasshopper Road , the sheriff 's office added .

July 22 (UPI) -- A pair of wildfires in Northern California have collectively burned more than 23,000 acres over four days and prompted a number of evacuations.
Cal Fire said the Gold Fire has burned 14,000 acres south of Adin since it began on Monday, while the Hog Fire 50 miles south has burned 9,420 acres since it was first reported on Saturday west of Susanville. Both blazes are located in Lassen County.
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The Gold Fire is 5% contained and a Red Flag Warning in the county will remain in effect until 9 p.m. due to thunderstorms and strong winds which increase the possibility of more ignitions in the area.
Cal Fire said the Hog Fire was 9% contained and an essential fiber optic cable was damaged by the fire early Monday.
The blaze has threatened 170 structures and more than 200 fire personnel including engines, dozers and water tenders were deployed.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for all residents along Highway 139 from Susanville Road south to Termo Grasshopper Road, areas south of Ash Valley Road, west of Spooner Road, east of Highway 139 and north Termo Grasshopper Road, as well as areas west of Highway 139, south of Haydenhill Road, East of Anderson Ranch Road/Dixie Valley Road and north of Long Flat Road, the Lassen County Sheriff's Office said.
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Highway 139 was also closed from Susanville Road to Termo Grasshopper Road, the sheriff's office added.


upi--2020-07-22--Ambassador Johnson, President Trump deny Turnberry allegations

July 22 ( UPI ) -- NFL owner and U.S .
Ambassador to Britain Robert `` Woody '' Johnson on Wednesday denied allegations he made racist and sexist remarks that prompted a watchdog investigation .
He responded on Twitter to a CNN report citing anonymous sources that the State Department Inspector General conducted an ethics investigation into the New York Jets owner .
`` I have followed the ethical rules and requirements of my office at all times .
These false claims of insensitive remarks about race and gender are totally inconsistent with my longstanding record and values , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ account .
One source described Johnson 's comments about women 's appearance as `` cringeworthy , '' while others said they had difficulty getting him to participate in an event for International Women 's Day .
CNN reported that Johnson did n't directly deny allegations when the outlet asked him about them .
The sources said Johnson held meetings at a men-only club in London but was told to stop in 2018 because female diplomats would n't be able to attend .
He also allegedly said he preferred hiring women because they worked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One source said Johnson appeared uncomfortable attending a Black History Month event at the U.S. Embassy , asking if those in attendance would be `` a whole bunch of Black people . ''
He also allegedly said he did n't know why there should be a month to celebrate Black history .
Unnamed sources also told CNN that Johnson attempted to use his position as a diplomat to benefit President Donald Trump 's personal business , specifically the Trump Turnberry resort in Scotland .
The president allegedly asked Johnson to pressure the British @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tournament at the location .
The New York Times confirmed the allegations citing three unnamed sources .
Reporters asked Trump about the allegations during a news conference at the White House on Wednesday afternoon .
He denied them .
`` I never spoke to Woody Johnson about that , '' he said .
Sources told the Times that Johnson 's deputy , Lewis Lukens , warned the ambassador not to push the issue because it was unethical , but that Johnson brought it up to Scottish Secretary of State David Mundell .
Mundell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment on the story , but pointed to a British government statement that said Johnson `` made no request of Mr. Mundell regarding the British Open or other sporting event . ''
Lukens allegedly notified State Department officials of the incident and Johnson ousted the career diplomat a few months later .
Trump tapped Johnson to be his ambassador to Britain in June 2017 , at which point Johnson 's brother , Christopher Johnson , assumed the role of chairman and CEO of the New York Jets .

President Donald Trump and U.S. Ambassador to Britain Woody Johnson look out on June 3, 2019, from a window at Winfield House, the official residence of the U.S. ambassador. Both denied allegations that Trump asked Johnson to push to have the British Open at Trump's Scottish resort. File Photo by Shealah Craighead/White House | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- NFL owner and U.S. Ambassador to Britain Robert "Woody" Johnson on Wednesday denied allegations he made racist and sexist remarks that prompted a watchdog investigation. He responded on Twitter to a CNN report citing anonymous sources that the State Department Inspector General conducted an ethics investigation into the New York Jets owner. Advertisement
"I have followed the ethical rules and requirements of my office at all times. These false claims of insensitive remarks about race and gender are totally inconsistent with my longstanding record and values," he posted on his official ambassador Twitter account.
One source described Johnson's comments about women's appearance as "cringeworthy," while others said they had difficulty getting him to participate in an event for International Women's Day. CNN reported that Johnson didn't directly deny allegations when the outlet asked him about them.
The sources said Johnson held meetings at a men-only club in London but was told to stop in 2018 because female diplomats wouldn't be able to attend. He also allegedly said he preferred hiring women because they worked harder for less pay than men.
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One source said Johnson appeared uncomfortable attending a Black History Month event at the U.S. Embassy, asking if those in attendance would be "a whole bunch of Black people." He also allegedly said he didn't know why there should be a month to celebrate Black history.
Unnamed sources also told CNN that Johnson attempted to use his position as a diplomat to benefit President Donald Trump's personal business, specifically the Trump Turnberry resort in Scotland. The president allegedly asked Johnson to pressure the British government to hold the British Open golf tournament at the location.
The New York Times confirmed the allegations citing three unnamed sources.
Reporters asked Trump about the allegations during a news conference at the White House on Wednesday afternoon. He denied them.
"I never spoke to Woody Johnson about that," he said.
Sources told the Times that Johnson's deputy, Lewis Lukens, warned the ambassador not to push the issue because it was unethical, but that Johnson brought it up to Scottish Secretary of State David Mundell.
Mundell told the Times that he wouldn't comment on the story, but pointed to a British government statement that said Johnson "made no request of Mr. Mundell regarding the British Open or other sporting event."
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Lukens allegedly notified State Department officials of the incident and Johnson ousted the career diplomat a few months later.
Trump tapped Johnson to be his ambassador to Britain in June 2017, at which point Johnson's brother, Christopher Johnson, assumed the role of chairman and CEO of the New York Jets.


upi--2020-07-22--Mookie Betts agrees to 12-year, $365M extension with Los Angeles Dodgers

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Former American League MVP Mookie Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers reached an agreement on a 12-year , $ 365 million contract extension , the team announced Wednesday .
The long-term deal will keep the star outfielder from reaching free agency this winter and will tie him to the club through the 2032 season .
League sources told ESPN and MLB Media that Betts ' deal -- including the one-year , $ 27 million contract he 's currently under -- will total 13 years and $ 392 million .
Betts ' contract tops the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signed by Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout .
According to ESPN , Betts ' deal includes a record $ 65 million signing bonus .
`` It 's obviously a special day , '' Betts told reporters Wednesday .
`` It 's kind of what I 've been working for my whole life .
...
This is the day we 've been dreaming about , and for it to come true is definitely a blessing .
I 'm super happy to be part of this organization for the rest of my career and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'll never forget . ''
The Dodgers acquired Betts in a blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox in February .
In his final season with the Red Sox , the 27-year-old outfielder recorded a .295 batting average with 29 home runs and 80 RBIs .
Betts is considered one of the top all-around players in baseball , displaying elite power and speed to go with his four Gold Gloves in right field .
He finished his championship-winning 2018 campaign with an MVP award .
Since making his major league debut in 2014 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average with 139 home runs and 470 RBIs .
He has notched 126 stolen bases and 965 total hits .

The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired star outfielder Mookie Betts in a blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox in February. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- Former American League MVP Mookie Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers reached an agreement on a 12-year, $365 million contract extension, the team announced Wednesday. The long-term deal will keep the star outfielder from reaching free agency this winter and will tie him to the club through the 2032 season. League sources told ESPN and MLB Media that Betts' deal -- including the one-year, $27 million contract he's currently under -- will total 13 years and $392 million. Advertisement
Betts' contract tops the previous extension record of $360 million signed by Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout. According to ESPN, Betts' deal includes a record $65 million signing bonus.
"It's obviously a special day," Betts told reporters Wednesday. "It's kind of what I've been working for my whole life. ... This is the day we've been dreaming about, and for it to come true is definitely a blessing. I'm super happy to be part of this organization for the rest of my career and this is an amazing opportunity that I'll never forget."
The Dodgers acquired Betts in a blockbuster trade with the Boston Red Sox in February. In his final season with the Red Sox, the 27-year-old outfielder recorded a .295 batting average with 29 home runs and 80 RBIs.
Betts is considered one of the top all-around players in baseball, displaying elite power and speed to go with his four Gold Gloves in right field. He finished his championship-winning 2018 campaign with an MVP award.
Since making his major league debut in 2014, Betts has a .301 career batting average with 139 home runs and 470 RBIs. He has notched 126 stolen bases and 965 total hits.


upi--2020-07-22--'Die Hart' comedy was Kevin Hart's idea, says showrunner

NEW YORK , July 22 ( UPI ) -- Die Hart screenwriter and producer Tripper Clancy says Kevin Hart came up with the idea to make a comedy that pokes fun of his aspirations to become a leading man .
In the Quibi series , the Ride Along and Jumanji : Welcome to the Jungle star plays a fictionalized version of himself -- a funnyman tired of playing sidekicks who goes to an action hero academy run by Ron Wilcox , an erratic , inexplicably respected teacher played by John Travolta .
Jean Reno ( The Professional ) plays the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new direction , Nathalie Emmanuel ( Game of Thrones ) plays an actress who also wants to change her image and Josh Hartnett ( Penny Dreadful ) plays himself , supposedly one of the school 's most successful graduates .
The show includes 10 mini-episodes , which run about eight minutes each .
New chapters will be made available through July 29 .
The first five installments are on the mobile phone app now .
`` Kevin was the originator of the idea , '' Clancy told UPI about Die Hart in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was going to be an action star and have his version of the James Bond story , but he is one of the funniest guys on the planet , so what does that look like ? ''
Clancy took that concept further , creating a fictional training school that Hollywood actors must survive before becoming bonafide action heroes .
No joke or situation got too ridiculous or personal for Hart , according to Clancy .
`` To Kevin 's credit , he was very open about pretty much doing anything , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also is a producer on the show .
`` He was n't afraid of tarnishing his image or his brand by playing a version of Kevin Hart . ''
Candid discussions took place between the filmmakers and Hart and his team about whether the comedian could handle the physical side of the role after he was injured in a car crash last year .
`` He is a workout fiend and he has really gotten his body back , I think , to the place it was before the accident , so he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ then , of course , he has a stunt double that he works with in all of his movies who is super-talented , '' Clancy said .
No coaxing was needed to get Travolta on board the Die Hart train .
Not only is he a huge Hart fan , but he responded enthusiastically to the script as soon as he read it .
`` He came alive at the table read .
Once he saw what Kevin was doing , I think John realized , 'Oh , I can just go for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's trying to almost match Kevin 's intensity .
It 's one of my favorite roles that I have ever seen Travolta do , '' said Clancy , who had a poster for Travolta 's classic movie Pulp Fiction on his bedroom wall when he was growing up .
Hartnett was totally up for the self-mockery his role required .
`` He was so game for it , '' Clancy said .
`` He called Eric [ Appel ] , our director , and was like : 'Hey , I want to talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I should be in maybe a slick suit because I am kind of a douchey Hollywood actor . '
We were all thrilled that he just wanted to have fun playing this alternate version of himself . ''
With most movie theaters still closed , new productions largely shut down and people looking for a distraction from the stress associated with the coronavirus pandemic , Die Hart 's release could n't come at a better time .
`` We 're all on our phones already with Twitter and Facebook and Instagram , more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do , '' Clancy said .
`` I 'm hoping everyone is like 'Oh , my gosh !
There 's a new , fresh something that we can watch and we can enjoy ' and take your mind off of all the other negative things happening in the world for eight minutes at a time . ''

1/3
John Travolta (L), Kevin Hart and Nathalie Emmanuel star in the new comedy series, “Die Hart.” Photo by Kevin Kwan/Quibi
NEW YORK, July 22 (UPI) -- Die Hart screenwriter and producer Tripper Clancy says Kevin Hart came up with the idea to make a comedy that pokes fun of his aspirations to become a leading man. In the Quibi series, the Ride Along and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle star plays a fictionalized version of himself -- a funnyman tired of playing sidekicks who goes to an action hero academy run by Ron Wilcox, an erratic, inexplicably respected teacher played by John Travolta. Advertisement
Jean Reno (The Professional) plays the filmmaker who takes Hart's career in a new direction, Nathalie Emmanuel (Game of Thrones) plays an actress who also wants to change her image and Josh Hartnett (Penny Dreadful) plays himself, supposedly one of the school's most successful graduates.
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The show includes 10 mini-episodes, which run about eight minutes each. New chapters will be made available through July 29. The first five installments are on the mobile phone app now.
"Kevin was the originator of the idea," Clancy told UPI about Die Hart in a phone interview Tuesday.
"He was going to be an action star and have his version of the James Bond story, but he is one of the funniest guys on the planet, so what does that look like?"
Clancy took that concept further, creating a fictional training school that Hollywood actors must survive before becoming bonafide action heroes.
No joke or situation got too ridiculous or personal for Hart, according to Clancy.
"To Kevin's credit, he was very open about pretty much doing anything," the writer said of the actor, who also is a producer on the show. "He wasn't afraid of tarnishing his image or his brand by playing a version of Kevin Hart."
Candid discussions took place between the filmmakers and Hart and his team about whether the comedian could handle the physical side of the role after he was injured in a car crash last year.
"He is a workout fiend and he has really gotten his body back, I think, to the place it was before the accident, so he did as much as he could and then, of course, he has a stunt double that he works with in all of his movies who is super-talented," Clancy said.
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No coaxing was needed to get Travolta on board the Die Hart train.
Not only is he a huge Hart fan, but he responded enthusiastically to the script as soon as he read it.
"He came alive at the table read. Once he saw what Kevin was doing, I think John realized, 'Oh, I can just go for it on every take.' He's trying to almost match Kevin's intensity. It's one of my favorite roles that I have ever seen Travolta do," said Clancy, who had a poster for Travolta's classic movie Pulp Fiction on his bedroom wall when he was growing up.
Hartnett was totally up for the self-mockery his role required.
"He was so game for it," Clancy said. "He called Eric [Appel], our director, and was like: 'Hey, I want to talk to the costume designer. I think I should be in maybe a slick suit because I am kind of a douchey Hollywood actor.' We were all thrilled that he just wanted to have fun playing this alternate version of himself."
With most movie theaters still closed, new productions largely shut down and people looking for a distraction from the stress associated with the coronavirus pandemic, Die Hart's release couldn't come at a better time.
Advertisement
"We're all on our phones already with Twitter and Facebook and Instagram, more so than ever because there is nothing to do," Clancy said.
"I'm hoping everyone is like 'Oh, my gosh! There's a new, fresh something that we can watch and we can enjoy' and take your mind off of all the other negative things happening in the world for eight minutes at a time."


upi--2020-07-22--Lawyers: Newly discovered evidence could prove Pervis Payne's innocence

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Lawyers for a Tennessee death row inmate convicted of killing a woman and her 2-year-old daughter said newly uncovered DNA evidence could prove their client 's innocence , according to a petition filed Wednesday .
Pervis Payne , 53 , was sentenced to death for the deaths of Charisse Christopher , 28 , and her daughter , Lacie Jo , in 1987 in Shelby County .
Prosecutors said he also non-fatally wounded Christopher 's 3-year-old son , Nicholas .
Payne has maintained his innocence for more than 30 years and his lawyers say they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Criminal Court clerk 's office that could exonerate him .
The items , they said , have never been subjected to DNA testing because his initial trial occurred when such technology was n't available .
Payne 's attorneys , who include representatives from the Innocence Project , accused the state of illegally hiding the evidence in the meantime .
The items included bed linens and clothing with blood stains , fingernail clippings and a potential rape kit .
The evidence was collected from a bedroom in Christopher 's apartment , though at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the only crime scene .
`` The presence of DNA belonging to someone other than Mr. Payne would support the consistent story that he has told for more than 30 years : He was an innocent bystander who came upon the crime scene , '' said Vanessa Potkin , the Innocence Project 's post-conviction litigation director .
At the time of the slayings , Payne was dating Christopher 's neighbor .
He told police he found the victims ' bodies after hearing calls for help , but investigators said he committed the crimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking for sex .
They accused him of sexually assaulting Christopher , though she was found fully clothed .
Payne was never tested for drugs after his arrest .
Defense attorneys said that once prosecutors targeted him as the suspect , they never investigated any other suspects , including Christopher 's ex-husband who allegedly had a violent past .
The attorneys said racial bias , hidden evidence and Payne 's intellectual disability prevented him from receiving a fair trial .
They said prosecutors relied on stereotypes of Black men and drug use , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skin '' to the jury .
The petition asks for expedited DNA testing to prove Payne 's innocence less than five months before his execution date .
`` The forensic testing that Mr. Payne seeks can be performed in less than 60 days and is capable of demonstrating what he has consistently maintained for three decades , '' the petition says .
`` He is innocent . ''
The office of Shelby County District Attorney Amy Weirich said it received the petition Tuesday .
`` We are reviewing his allegations and preparing a @ @ @

Pervis Payne was given the death penalty for the 1987 death of a Tennessee woman and her 2-year-old daughter. File Photo courtesy of PervisPayne.org
July 22 (UPI) -- Lawyers for a Tennessee death row inmate convicted of killing a woman and her 2-year-old daughter said newly uncovered DNA evidence could prove their client's innocence, according to a petition filed Wednesday. Pervis Payne, 53, was sentenced to death for the deaths of Charisse Christopher, 28, and her daughter, Lacie Jo, in 1987 in Shelby County. Prosecutors said he also non-fatally wounded Christopher's 3-year-old son, Nicholas. Advertisement
He's scheduled to be executed Dec. 3.
Payne has maintained his innocence for more than 30 years and his lawyers say they recently discovered evidence in the Shelby County Criminal Court clerk's office that could exonerate him.
The items, they said, have never been subjected to DNA testing because his initial trial occurred when such technology wasn't available. Payne's attorneys, who include representatives from the Innocence Project, accused the state of illegally hiding the evidence in the meantime.
The items included bed linens and clothing with blood stains, fingernail clippings and a potential rape kit. The evidence was collected from a bedroom in Christopher's apartment, though at the time, prosecutors said the kitchen was the only crime scene.
"The presence of DNA belonging to someone other than Mr. Payne would support the consistent story that he has told for more than 30 years: He was an innocent bystander who came upon the crime scene," said Vanessa Potkin, the Innocence Project's post-conviction litigation director.
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At the time of the slayings, Payne was dating Christopher's neighbor. He told police he found the victims' bodies after hearing calls for help, but investigators said he committed the crimes because he was on drugs and was looking for sex. They accused him of sexually assaulting Christopher, though she was found fully clothed.
Payne was never tested for drugs after his arrest.
Defense attorneys said that once prosecutors targeted him as the suspect, they never investigated any other suspects, including Christopher's ex-husband who allegedly had a violent past.
The attorneys said racial bias, hidden evidence and Payne's intellectual disability prevented him from receiving a fair trial. They said prosecutors relied on stereotypes of Black men and drug use, and pointed out Christopher's "white skin" to the jury.
The petition asks for expedited DNA testing to prove Payne's innocence less than five months before his execution date.
"The forensic testing that Mr. Payne seeks can be performed in less than 60 days and is capable of demonstrating what he has consistently maintained for three decades," the petition says. "He is innocent."
The office of Shelby County District Attorney Amy Weirich said it received the petition Tuesday.
"We are reviewing his allegations and preparing a response."


upi--2020-07-22--Trump to deploy federal law enforcement to Chicago, Albuquerque

July 22 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that his administration will deploy federal law enforcement officers to Chicago and Albuquerque to quell violence .
In a news conference in the East Room of the White House , Trump said he would expand the Justice Department program known as Operation Legend , sending officers from the FBI , U.S .
Marshals Service , Drug Enforcement Administration , and Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives to the cities .
`` Today I am announcing a surge of federal law enforcement into American communities plagued by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday 's announcement comes after more than a dozen people were injured in a shooting at a funeral in Chicago on Tuesday night .
Trump on Wednesday said he had `` no choice but to get involved '' by sending federal officers to the cities .
`` This bloodshed must end , '' he said .
`` This bloodshed will end . ''
On Tuesday , Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot tweeted that she would push back against efforts to send federal officers to the city .
`` Under no circumstances will I allow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago and terrorize our residents , '' Lightfoot wrote .
Sens .
Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin , both Democrats representing Illinois , also sent a letter to Trump declaring the deployment of federal agents unconstitutional .
`` Any involvement by federal law enforcement in community policing activity must be conducted in coordination with , and with the approval of , local officials , '' they wrote .
`` In this time of heightened tension , we can not have federal law enforcement operating at cross-purposes with local leaders . ''
Sen. Martin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision Wednesday to the deployment of federal officers in Portland , Ore. , which has been met with legal challenges after protesters have been loaded into unmarked vans without arrest warrants .
`` The U.S. Attorney for New Mexico informed me today that 'Operation Legend ' is coming to Albuquerque , '' he wrote on Twitter on Tuesday .
`` Given the mess it created in Portland , I let him know in no uncertain terms that this is n't the kind of 'help ' that Albuquerque needs . ''

U.S. President Donald Trump said the deployment of federal agents to Chicago and Albuquerque will put an end to "bloodshed." Photo by Sarah Silbiger/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that his administration will deploy federal law enforcement officers to Chicago and Albuquerque to quell violence. In a news conference in the East Room of the White House, Trump said he would expand the Justice Department program known as Operation Legend, sending officers from the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to the cities. Advertisement
"Today I am announcing a surge of federal law enforcement into American communities plagued by violent crime," Trump said.
Wednesday's announcement comes after more than a dozen people were injured in a shooting at a funeral in Chicago on Tuesday night.
Trump on Wednesday said he had "no choice but to get involved" by sending federal officers to the cities.
"This bloodshed must end," he said. "This bloodshed will end."
On Tuesday, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot tweeted that she would push back against efforts to send federal officers to the city.
"Under no circumstances will I allow Donald Trump's troops to come to Chicago and terrorize our residents," Lightfoot wrote.
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Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin, both Democrats representing Illinois, also sent a letter to Trump declaring the deployment of federal agents unconstitutional.
"Any involvement by federal law enforcement in community policing activity must be conducted in coordination with, and with the approval of, local officials," they wrote. "In this time of heightened tension, we cannot have federal law enforcement operating at cross-purposes with local leaders."
Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., compared Trump's decision Wednesday to the deployment of federal officers in Portland, Ore., which has been met with legal challenges after protesters have been loaded into unmarked vans without arrest warrants.
"The U.S. Attorney for New Mexico informed me today that 'Operation Legend' is coming to Albuquerque," he wrote on Twitter on Tuesday. "Given the mess it created in Portland, I let him know in no uncertain terms that this isn't the kind of 'help' that Albuquerque needs."


upi--2020-07-22--States need $3.6B to handle elections during pandemic, expert says

July 22 ( UPI ) -- States across the country are grappling with how to run primaries and the November general election while dealing with the coronavirus pandemic , a task one voting expert told a Senate committee on Wednesday would require another $ 3.6 billion in federal aid .
During the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration hearing , a number of senators noted the many ways that the coronavirus pandemic has changed how elections are traditionally conducted , with many states receiving unprecedented numbers of requests for mail-in ballots .
Some states have expanded absentee voting options while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ballot drop boxes .
But former Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Amy Klobuchar , the top Democrat on the committee , cited the long lines , inadequate numbers of polling places and difficulties in the mail-in voting system during Wisconsin 's April presidential primary .
`` According to local health officials , nearly 70 people , voters and poll workers , contracted coronavirus as a result of them simply going to the polls , '' she said .
Kristen Clarke , president and executive director of National Lawyers ' Committee for Civil Rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need $ 3.6 billion in additional funding from the federal government in order to safely administer the general election .
`` The $ 400 million allocated in the CARES Act was an important first step .
But it 's a fraction of what 's truly needed , '' she said .
`` Expanding voting by mail and in person is achievable and critical for our democracy .
States simply need the support from Congress to do it . ''
Clarke explained that the additional federal funding would help states in not only November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and run-off elections .
States would be able to fund ballot printing , postage costs and drop boxes for mail-in ballots as well as electronic absentee ballot processing systems , ballot tracking software and voter education materials .
In addition , poll workers and voters will need more personal protective equipment , she said .
In addition to the $ 3.6 billion , the U.S .
Postal Service needs $ 89 billion to ensure it can keep up with an unprecedented number of mail-in ballots , Clarke said .
According to the National @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states do n't require an excuse for a voter to request an absentee ballot while one-third do require a a reason .
Five states currently conduct all elections entirely by mail .
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett testified that his state had successfully managed its primary election by developing a voter app that informs people of their nearest polling place and expanding advertising for early voting .
However , Tennessee had previously limited the use of absentee ballots to those who are actively sick , disabled , traveling or over the age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abandon that rule after a state judge ruled it was an unreasonable burden on citizens ' right to vote .
Hargett has appealed that decision to the state 's Supreme Court .
Sen. Angus King , D-Maine , asked Hargett if fear of contracting COVID-19 was an eligible excuse for requesting an absentee ballot .
Hargett said no .
`` That is pitiful , '' said King .

A voter wears a protective mask while casting her ballot during the primary election in Washington, D.C., on June 2. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- States across the country are grappling with how to run primaries and the November general election while dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, a task one voting expert told a Senate committee on Wednesday would require another $3.6 billion in federal aid. During the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration hearing, a number of senators noted the many ways that the coronavirus pandemic has changed how elections are traditionally conducted, with many states receiving unprecedented numbers of requests for mail-in ballots. Advertisement
Some states have expanded absentee voting options while also implementing touchless solutions like curbside voting and ballot drop boxes.
But former Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Amy Klobuchar, the top Democrat on the committee, cited the long lines, inadequate numbers of polling places and difficulties in the mail-in voting system during Wisconsin's April presidential primary.
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"According to local health officials, nearly 70 people, voters and poll workers, contracted coronavirus as a result of them simply going to the polls," she said.
Kristen Clarke, president and executive director of National Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, testified that states will need $3.6 billion in additional funding from the federal government in order to safely administer the general election.
"The $400 million allocated in the CARES Act was an important first step. But it's a fraction of what's truly needed," she said. "Expanding voting by mail and in person is achievable and critical for our democracy. States simply need the support from Congress to do it."
Clarke explained that the additional federal funding would help states in not only November's general election but in ongoing primaries and run-off elections.
States would be able to fund ballot printing, postage costs and drop boxes for mail-in ballots as well as electronic absentee ballot processing systems, ballot tracking software and voter education materials. In addition, poll workers and voters will need more personal protective equipment, she said.
In addition to the $3.6 billion, the U.S. Postal Service needs $89 billion to ensure it can keep up with an unprecedented number of mail-in ballots, Clarke said.
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According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, two-thirds of states don't require an excuse for a voter to request an absentee ballot while one-third do require a a reason. Five states currently conduct all elections entirely by mail.
Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett testified that his state had successfully managed its primary election by developing a voter app that informs people of their nearest polling place and expanding advertising for early voting.
However, Tennessee had previously limited the use of absentee ballots to those who are actively sick, disabled, traveling or over the age of 60. It was forced to abandon that rule after a state judge ruled it was an unreasonable burden on citizens' right to vote.
Hargett has appealed that decision to the state's Supreme Court.
Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, asked Hargett if fear of contracting COVID-19 was an eligible excuse for requesting an absentee ballot. Hargett said no.
"That is pitiful," said King.


upi--2020-07-22--Study: Steroids cut death risk by 75% for COVID-19 patients with severe inflammation

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with high levels of inflammation in their lungs saw a 75 % reduction in their risk for death after receiving steroid treatment , a study published Wednesday by the Journal of Hospital Medicine found .
These patients also were 75 % less likely to require ventilator support to maintain oxygen levels in their lungs , the researchers said .
Testing patients for levels of inflammation before starting steroid treatment will likely help identify the best candidates for the approach , they said .
`` Our findings suggest that steroid therapy should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' study co-author Dr. William Southern said in a statement .
`` It 's a different story for people who do not have significant inflammation -- for them , any benefit is outweighed by the risks from using steroids , '' said Southern , chief of the division of hospital medicine at Montefiore Health System in New York City .
Many who die from severe COVID-19 do so as a result of the body 's intense inflammatory response , which can overwhelm and severely damage the lungs .
For their research , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among two groups selected from nearly 3,000 people hospitalized at Montefiore after a positive COVID-19 test .
One group of 140 patients was treated with steroids within 48 hours of hospital admission , while another group of 1,666 similar patients was not , the researchers said .
Most of the patients treated with steroids received prednisone , although some received dexamethasone and methylprednisolone , they said .
Patients had a blood test to measure their levels of C-reactive protein , or CRP , which the liver produces in response to inflammation , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the blood , the more inflammation a person has , the researchers said .
In general , patients with CRP levels greater than 20 -- well above normal levels -- saw the most benefit from steroid therapy , without risks for side effects , they said .
However , patients with CRP levels under 10 -- a normal or low level of inflammation -- had a nearly 200 % increased risk for mechanical ventilation or death , according to the researchers .
By testing blood for CRP before initiating steroid treatment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who would benefit most from the approach without exposing others to unnecessary risk , the researchers said .
The findings build on those of the `` Recovery '' trial , a British study that found the steroid dexamethasone reduced deaths by about one-third in COVID-19 patients on ventilators and by about one-fifth among people who needed oxygen but were not on ventilators .
Meanwhile , another study addressing the treatment of inflammation in patients with COVID-19 , also published Wednesday by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , found that patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the anti-inflammatory drug anakinra needed less oxygen and had fewer days on ventilator support .
The 22 patients in the study treated with anakinra , which is used in rheumatoid arthritis , also saw `` rapid reductions in fever and systemic inflammation , '' the authors said .

Researchers say steroid treatments can help COVID-19 patients with severe lung inflammation, but that patients should be screened for inflammation levels before receiving the treatment. Photo by kalhh/Pixabay
July 22 (UPI) -- Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with high levels of inflammation in their lungs saw a 75% reduction in their risk for death after receiving steroid treatment, a study published Wednesday by the Journal of Hospital Medicine found. These patients also were 75% less likely to require ventilator support to maintain oxygen levels in their lungs, the researchers said. Advertisement
Testing patients for levels of inflammation before starting steroid treatment will likely help identify the best candidates for the approach, they said.
"Our findings suggest that steroid therapy should be reserved for people with high inflammation," study co-author Dr. William Southern said in a statement.
"It's a different story for people who do not have significant inflammation -- for them, any benefit is outweighed by the risks from using steroids," said Southern, chief of the division of hospital medicine at Montefiore Health System in New York City.
Many who die from severe COVID-19 do so as a result of the body's intense inflammatory response, which can overwhelm and severely damage the lungs.
For their research, Southern and his colleagues compared patient outcomes among two groups selected from nearly 3,000 people hospitalized at Montefiore after a positive COVID-19 test.
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One group of 140 patients was treated with steroids within 48 hours of hospital admission, while another group of 1,666 similar patients was not, the researchers said.
Most of the patients treated with steroids received prednisone, although some received dexamethasone and methylprednisolone, they said.
Patients had a blood test to measure their levels of C-reactive protein, or CRP, which the liver produces in response to inflammation, according to the researchers.
The more CRP in the blood, the more inflammation a person has, the researchers said.
In general, patients with CRP levels greater than 20 -- well above normal levels -- saw the most benefit from steroid therapy, without risks for side effects, they said.
However, patients with CRP levels under 10 -- a normal or low level of inflammation -- had a nearly 200% increased risk for mechanical ventilation or death, according to the researchers.
By testing blood for CRP before initiating steroid treatment, clinicians might be able to identify patients who would benefit most from the approach without exposing others to unnecessary risk, the researchers said.
The findings build on those of the "Recovery" trial, a British study that found the steroid dexamethasone reduced deaths by about one-third in COVID-19 patients on ventilators and by about one-fifth among people who needed oxygen but were not on ventilators.
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Meanwhile, another study addressing the treatment of inflammation in patients with COVID-19, also published Wednesday by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that patients with pneumonia caused by COVID-19 treated with the anti-inflammatory drug anakinra needed less oxygen and had fewer days on ventilator support.
The 22 patients in the study treated with anakinra, which is used in rheumatoid arthritis, also saw "rapid reductions in fever and systemic inflammation," the authors said.


upi--2020-07-22--California now has most COVID-19 cases; Indiana, Ohio mandate masks

July 22 ( UPI ) -- California overtook New York as the state with the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases at more than 409,000 on Wednesday .
Johns Hopkins University 's COVID-19 tracker indicated California had more than 409,000 cases as of Wednesday morning , slightly more than the 408,886 confirmed in New York .
The fatality figures , though , paint a different story , with more than 72,000 deaths in New York and 7,890 in California .
New York , which was the epicenter of the virus for several weeks , has managed to stem the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drop in hospitalizations .
California , meanwhile , has seen an upswing .
California Gov .
Gavin Newsom said Wednesday that the state reported 12,807 new infections over the previous 24 hours , a new record high for the state .
California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said that because the West Coast state has more than double the population of New York , he does n't see `` significance '' in Wednesday 's milestone .
`` I look at every day as an opportunity to do more and do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and at the end , I really expect and hope that California is going to be the state that adapted the most , learned the most , prepared the best and that we are going to really reduce its impact . ''
Governors in Indiana and Ohio , meanwhile , announced new face covering mandates Wednesday .
Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine signed an order requiring people to wear masks at all times in indoor public spaces and in outdoor spaces when social distancing is n't possible .
Indiana Gov .
Eric Holcomb @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order Thursday .
In Florida , the heath department said about 9,800 new cases were recorded on Tuesday , pushing the state total to 379,600 since the start of the pandemic .
Most new cases were seen in Miami-Dade County , the state 's most populous county and the U.S. epicenter of the outbreak .
Nationally , 3.94 million cases and more than 142,000 deaths have been recorded to date , according to updated figures Wednesday from Johns Hopkins University .
About 64,500 new U.S. cases were reported Tuesday , the seventh consecutive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 60,000 .
Tuesday also marked the first time single-day deaths surpassed 1,000 since early June .
According to the COVID Tracking Project , Tuesday saw 1,029 dead .
Robert Redfield , director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , told ABC 's Good Morning America on Wednesday it 's `` very hard to predict '' how bad the crisis could get .
`` We 're new in learning about this virus so it 's very hard to predict , '' he said .
`` Clearly , though , we have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' He also said he `` absolutely '' feels comfortable with his grandchildren returning to school this fall .
`` It 's really important to get our schools open , '' he added .
`` I 'm 100 percent that they can get back to school . ''
The CDC on Wednesday issued new guidelines for how long adults should isolate after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms .
The agency lowered the recommended timeframe to 10 days after the symptoms began with at least 24 hours without a fever or use of fever-reducing medicines .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anthony Fauci , though , warned that though the virus will likely be reduced to `` low levels , '' he does n't believe the world will ever be rid of the COVID-19 .
`` I do n't really see us eradicating it , '' he said during a virtual panel hosted by the TB Alliance .
`` I think with a combination of good public health measures , a degree of global herd immunity and a good vaccine , which I do hope and feel cautiously optimistic that we will get , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those together , we will get control of this .
Whether it 's this year or next year , I 'm not certain , '' said Fauci , who heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases .
He said COVID-19 is unlike other viruses because it can quickly transmit from person to person , with great variation in its presentation .
`` I have never seen infection in which you have such a broad range literally no symptoms at all in a substantial proportion of the population to some who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who get ill enough to be in bed for weeks , '' Fauci said .
`` Others get hospitalized , require oxygen , intensive care , ventilation and death .
The involvement with the same pathogen is very unique . ''
Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Pete Gaynor told House lawmakers Wednesday there could be national shortages of personal protective equipment in areas where cases are surging .
He said relying on suppliers overseas is a `` national security issue . ''
`` We 're in a much better place than we were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , we are not out of the woods completely with PPE , '' he said .
Earlier , the U.S. government , drugmaker Pfizer and partner BioNTech announced an agreement to produce and deliver 100 million doses of a COVID-19 vaccine , once it 's fully developed and approved by federal regulators .

1/2
A waitress brings water to patrons seated on the sidewalk outside of Flights Restaurant in Burlingame, Calif., on July 14. California now has the highest number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- California overtook New York as the state with the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases at more than 409,000 on Wednesday. Johns Hopkins University's COVID-19 tracker indicated California had more than 409,000 cases as of Wednesday morning, slightly more than the 408,886 confirmed in New York. The fatality figures, though, paint a different story, with more than 72,000 deaths in New York and 7,890 in California. Advertisement
New York, which was the epicenter of the virus for several weeks, has managed to stem the spread of the disease, with a dramatic drop in hospitalizations. California, meanwhile, has seen an upswing.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday that the state reported 12,807 new infections over the previous 24 hours, a new record high for the state.
California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said that because the West Coast state has more than double the population of New York, he doesn't see "significance" in Wednesday's milestone.
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"I look at every day as an opportunity to do more and do better with our response to COVID-19, and at the end, I really expect and hope that California is going to be the state that adapted the most, learned the most, prepared the best and that we are going to really reduce its impact."
Governors in Indiana and Ohio, meanwhile, announced new face covering mandates Wednesday. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an order requiring people to wear masks at all times in indoor public spaces and in outdoor spaces when social distancing isn't possible.
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said he planned to sign a similar order Thursday.
In Florida, the heath department said about 9,800 new cases were recorded on Tuesday, pushing the state total to 379,600 since the start of the pandemic.
Most new cases were seen in Miami-Dade County, the state's most populous county and the U.S. epicenter of the outbreak.
Nationally, 3.94 million cases and more than 142,000 deaths have been recorded to date, according to updated figures Wednesday from Johns Hopkins University. About 64,500 new U.S. cases were reported Tuesday, the seventh consecutive day of a rise of at least 60,000.
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Tuesday also marked the first time single-day deaths surpassed 1,000 since early June. According to the COVID Tracking Project, Tuesday saw 1,029 dead.
Robert Redfield, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told ABC's Good Morning America on Wednesday it's "very hard to predict" how bad the crisis could get.
"We're new in learning about this virus so it's very hard to predict," he said. "Clearly, though, we have a significant surge in the outbreak now."
He also said he "absolutely" feels comfortable with his grandchildren returning to school this fall.
"It's really important to get our schools open," he added. "I'm 100 percent that they can get back to school."
The CDC on Wednesday issued new guidelines for how long adults should isolate after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. The agency lowered the recommended timeframe to 10 days after the symptoms began with at least 24 hours without a fever or use of fever-reducing medicines.
White House Coronavirus Task Force member Dr. Anthony Fauci, though, warned that though the virus will likely be reduced to "low levels," he doesn't believe the world will ever be rid of the COVID-19.
Advertisement
"I don't really see us eradicating it," he said during a virtual panel hosted by the TB Alliance.
"I think with a combination of good public health measures, a degree of global herd immunity and a good vaccine, which I do hope and feel cautiously optimistic that we will get, I think when we put all three of those together, we will get control of this. Whether it's this year or next year, I'm not certain," said Fauci, who heads the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
He said COVID-19 is unlike other viruses because it can quickly transmit from person to person, with great variation in its presentation.
"I have never seen infection in which you have such a broad range literally no symptoms at all in a substantial proportion of the population to some who get ill with minor symptoms to some who get ill enough to be in bed for weeks," Fauci said. "Others get hospitalized, require oxygen, intensive care, ventilation and death. The involvement with the same pathogen is very unique."
Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Pete Gaynor told House lawmakers Wednesday there could be national shortages of personal protective equipment in areas where cases are surging. He said relying on suppliers overseas is a "national security issue."
Advertisement
"We're in a much better place than we were coming out of March and April. However, we are not out of the woods completely with PPE," he said.
Earlier, the U.S. government, drugmaker Pfizer and partner BioNTech announced an agreement to produce and deliver 100 million doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, once it's fully developed and approved by federal regulators.


upi--2020-07-22--U.S. Space Force unveils official logo, sets motto as 'Semper Supra'

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The 7-month-old U.S. Space Force revealed its official logo and motto , `` Semper Supra , '' or `` Always Above , '' in Washington , D.C. , on Wednesday .
The logo features a stylized Greek delta design , and although it has been compared to the emblem of Star Trek 's Starfleet Academy , Space Force officials have noted the delta sign has been used by the U.S. Air Force since 1942 .
It includes an outer border signifying `` defense and protection from all adversaries , '' officials said , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rocket launch .
The logo was created by GSD & M , the Austin , Texas , advertising agency contracted to create recruiting and branding advertising for the Space Force .
An early version of the logo was seen on a U.S. Space Force flag unveiled at the White House in May .
The motto is in the tradition of two U.S. service branches , `` Semper Fidelis , '' or `` Always Faithful , '' of the Marine Corps , and `` Semper Paratus , '' or `` Always Ready , @ @ @ @ @ @

The United States Space Force on Wednesday unveiled its official logo. Illustration by Staff Sgt. James Richardson/U.S. Space Force
July 22 (UPI) -- The 7-month-old U.S. Space Force revealed its official logo and motto, "Semper Supra," or "Always Above," in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. The logo features a stylized Greek delta design, and although it has been compared to the emblem of Star Trek's Starfleet Academy, Space Force officials have noted the delta sign has been used by the U.S. Air Force since 1942. Advertisement
It includes an outer border signifying "defense and protection from all adversaries," officials said, and two spires with the delta sign signifying a rocket launch.
The logo was created by GSD&M, the Austin, Texas, advertising agency contracted to create recruiting and branding advertising for the Space Force.
An early version of the logo was seen on a U.S. Space Force flag unveiled at the White House in May.
The motto is in the tradition of two U.S. service branches, "Semper Fidelis," or "Always Faithful," of the Marine Corps, and "Semper Paratus," or "Always Ready," of the Coast Guard.


upi--2020-07-22--FBI probing possible link between N.J. judge attack, California shooting

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The FBI said Wednesday it 's investigating the possibility that an attack at the New Jersey home of a federal judge is linked to a similar slaying in California earlier this month .
The investigation centers on Roy Den Hollander , a lawyer accused of a shooting Saturday at the North Brunswick , N.J. , home of District Judge Esther Salas , which left her 20-year-old son Daniel Anderl dead and her husband Mark Anderl hospitalized .
Den Hollander was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound a day later in New York .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Anderl men when they opened the door thinking the shooter as a FedEx delivery person .
A shooting in Crestline , Calif. , two weeks before occurred under similar circumstances , leading investigators to believe there may be a connection .
`` As the FBI continues the investigation into the attack at the home of U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas ( District of New Jersey ) , we are now engaged with the San Bernardino California Sheriff 's Office and have evidence linking the murder of Marc Angelucci to FBI Newark subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ongoing , '' a statement from the FBI 's Newark , N.J. , office said .
Den Hollander described himself on various online channels as an `` anti-feminist lawyer '' and belonged to a men 's rights movement along with Angelucci .
Den Hollander previously appeared before Judge Salas on a case where he argued on behalf of a woman and her daughter who tried to register for the U.S .
Selective Service .
Salas ruled against Den Hollander 's motions in the case , but allowed other parts of the case to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ withdraw because he said he had terminal cancer , passing the case to New York-based law firm Boies Schiller Flexner , managing partner Nick Gravante said Monday .
On Den Hollander 's website , now removed , the lawyer posted anti-feminist manifestos including a rant where he disparaged Salas personally , saying he disliked working with female judges of Latin American descent because he claimed they were `` driven by an inferiority complex . ''

July 22 (UPI) -- The FBI said Wednesday it's investigating the possibility that an attack at the New Jersey home of a federal judge is linked to a similar slaying in California earlier this month.
The investigation centers on Roy Den Hollander, a lawyer accused of a shooting Saturday at the North Brunswick, N.J., home of District Judge Esther Salas, which left her 20-year-old son Daniel Anderl dead and her husband Mark Anderl hospitalized. Den Hollander was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound a day later in New York.
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Police said Den Hollander shot the two Anderl men when they opened the door thinking the shooter as a FedEx delivery person.
A shooting in Crestline, Calif., two weeks before occurred under similar circumstances, leading investigators to believe there may be a connection.
"As the FBI continues the investigation into the attack at the home of U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas (District of New Jersey), we are now engaged with the San Bernardino California Sheriff's Office and have evidence linking the murder of Marc Angelucci to FBI Newark subject Roy Den Hollander. This investigation is ongoing," a statement from the FBI's Newark, N.J., office said.
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Den Hollander described himself on various online channels as an "anti-feminist lawyer" and belonged to a men's rights movement along with Angelucci.
Den Hollander previously appeared before Judge Salas on a case where he argued on behalf of a woman and her daughter who tried to register for the U.S. Selective Service. Salas ruled against Den Hollander's motions in the case, but allowed other parts of the case to continue.
Den Hollander then requested to withdraw because he said he had terminal cancer, passing the case to New York-based law firm Boies Schiller Flexner, managing partner Nick Gravante said Monday.
On Den Hollander's website, now removed, the lawyer posted anti-feminist manifestos including a rant where he disparaged Salas personally, saying he disliked working with female judges of Latin American descent because he claimed they were "driven by an inferiority complex."


upi--2020-07-22--Marines begin deactivation of all tank battalions

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The deactivation of the U.S. Marine Corps ' tank battalions has begun , following a directive to divest material which could not survive modern warfare .
Companies within the Marines ' 1st Tank Battalion in Twentynine Palms , Calif. , and the 4th Tank Battalion at Camp Pendleton , Calif. , held their first deactivation ceremonies this week .
Several combat logistics regiments , engineer support units , ground cannon artillery and light attack air platforms are scheduled to be eliminated as well .
The tanks will likely be sold to the U.S. Army @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ tanks ] were of massive value , I mean huge value , in the past , '' Lt. Gen. Eric Smith of the Marine Corps Combat Development Command said in March , when the charges were ordered .
`` I used them in and around Ramadi [ Iraq ] and in and around Fallujah [ Iraq ] .
They 've paid their dues in blood .
These are Marine warriors from the Korean War until now .
It 's just that for the future fight , [ tanks ] are of less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most , such as long-range precision fire . ''
The divestments are part of an aggressive plan , called Design Force 2030 , announced earlier this year by Marine Corps Commandant Gen. David Berger .
The plan aims to make the Marines better prepared for future action , including defense of ships at sea and operating in hotly contested spots near the shore .
Use of tanks in warfare has been complicated by the number of sophisticated and available anti-tank systems in worldwide counterinsurgency conflicts , and access to long range drones now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Remember that our tanks were just weapon systems , '' Capt .
Mark Rothrock , commander of Alpha Company , 4th Tank Battalion at the Camp Pendleton deactivation ceremony .
`` A damn fine weapon system , but nonetheless , just equipment .
You individual Marines were always the key to the company 's success . ''

Alpha Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division of the Marine Corps Reserve held a deactivation ceremony at Camp Pendleton, Calif., on July 18, 2020. Photo courtesy of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton/Facebook
July 22 (UPI) -- The deactivation of the U.S. Marine Corps' tank battalions has begun, following a directive to divest material which could not survive modern warfare. Companies within the Marines' 1st Tank Battalion in Twentynine Palms, Calif., and the 4th Tank Battalion at Camp Pendleton, Calif., held their first deactivation ceremonies this week. Several combat logistics regiments, engineer support units, ground cannon artillery and light attack air platforms are scheduled to be eliminated as well. The tanks will likely be sold to the U.S. Army or to foreign armies. Advertisement
"They [tanks] were of massive value, I mean huge value, in the past," Lt. Gen. Eric Smith of the Marine Corps Combat Development Command said in March, when the charges were ordered. "I used them in and around Ramadi [Iraq] and in and around Fallujah [Iraq]. They've paid their dues in blood. These are Marine warriors from the Korean War until now. It's just that for the future fight, [tanks] are of less value than the things that we need most, such as long-range precision fire."
The divestments are part of an aggressive plan, called Design Force 2030, announced earlier this year by Marine Corps Commandant Gen. David Berger. The plan aims to make the Marines better prepared for future action, including defense of ships at sea and operating in hotly contested spots near the shore.
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Use of tanks in warfare has been complicated by the number of sophisticated and available anti-tank systems in worldwide counterinsurgency conflicts, and access to long range drones now operated extralegally by militia groups.
"Remember that our tanks were just weapon systems," Capt. Mark Rothrock, commander of Alpha Company, 4th Tank Battalion at the Camp Pendleton deactivation ceremony. "A damn fine weapon system, but nonetheless, just equipment. You individual Marines were always the key to the company's success."


upi--2020-07-22--Senate Democrats introduce bill to address COVID-19 racial disparity

A patron looks at the Edgar Degas ' sculpture , titled `` Little Dancer Aged Fourteen , '' in the @ @ @ @ @ '' exhibit in the West Building of the National Gallery of Art , on the @ @ @ @ @ the public during the COVID-19 pandemic , in Washington , D.C. , on July 20 @ @ @ @ @ |

Senate Democrats on Wednesday calling for the Trump administration and states to increase testing and outreach programs to address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
July 22 (UPI) -- Sens. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., and Ben Cardin, D-Md., led the introduction of a bill Wednesday seeking to address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. The COVID-19 Health Disparities Action Act would require the Trump administration to develop an action plan to address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 to provide targeted testing, contact tracing and outreach efforts directed at communities of color. Advertisement
"COVID-19 has had a particularly devastating impact on racial minorities across America," said Menendez. "The fact is Black and Brown Americans suffer higher rates of chronic disease, inequitable access to healthcare, fewer economic opportunities and in some cases real language barriers."
The bill would also require states to revise testing and contact tracing plans to address racial and ethnic minority, rural and other vulnerable populations and ensure that federally funded contact-tracing efforts are tailored to the radical and ethnic diversity of local communities.
The senators noted that African Americans are dying of COVID-19 at approximately 2.5 times the rate of White people, according to the COVID Racial Data Tracker, while American Indian, Alaska Native, Hispanic and Asian American communities are also being affected by the virus at disproportionate rates.
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"Health disparities for people of color is rooted in systemic racism, racial discrimination and record-high levels of income inequality," said Cardin.
Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that COVID-19 has also had a greater impact on younger people in communities of color as more than 34% of Hispanic and Latin Americans who died from the virus were younger than 65 and 30 percent of Black Americans who died from COVID-19 also were younger than 65, compared to just over 13% of White Americans.
World moves to reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic


upi--2020-07-22--Hurricane Douglas has Hawaii on alert

Hurricane Douglas has Hawaii on alert

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The Western Hemisphere was devoid of hurricanes since the 2020 tropical season kicked off on May 15 in the East Pacific and June 1 in the Atlantic .
However , that changed early Wednesday when Douglas strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane .
Hurricane Douglas is positioned in the middle of the East Pacific Ocean , well away from any land mass .
This hurricane is moving west at a speed of 15 mph and has maximum sustained winds of 75 mph .
It was located about 1,500 miles west-southwest of the southern tip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,785 miles east-southeast of Hilo , Hawaii .
Douglas will be located over an area of warm water and low wind shear for the next 24-36 hours , which will allow for additional strengthening as it moves west into Thursday .
`` Hurricane Douglas should continue to intensify and possibly become a major hurricane before it starts to lose wind intensity later in the week as it moves over cooler waters , '' said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Randy Adkins .
Douglas is expected to become a Category 2 hurricane , which would require @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mph by Thursday morning .
There are some indications that Douglas could briefly strengthen to a major hurricane , Category 3 or greater , before moving into a harsher environment .
Later in the week , Douglas is forecast to move northwest , out of the core of warmer waters and into the Central Pacific Ocean Basin .
This will cause the storm to lose some wind strength .
No matter its strength , Douglas is not expected to impact land through at least Saturday .
Instead , shipping interests in the area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ downpours and rough seas .
This more northwesterly track could take Douglas on a rare path toward the Hawaiian Islands by the beginning of next week .
`` All interests in Hawaii should monitor the progress of this system as it may pass very close to , or even across , the island chain sometime Sunday or early Monday , '' Adkins said .
Even just a brief brush from a tropical depression or storm could lead to rougher surf and strong waves for the southern beaches .
If Douglas holds together enough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system could bring waves of heavy rainfall to parts of the island chain , especially the Big Island .
According to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Rob Miller , if Douglas tracks directly over Hawaii , it could bring heavy rainfall that can cause flash flooding and mudslides across the islands .
It could also produce gusty winds and perhaps localized damage .
Douglas was the second of two tropical waves that strengthened into tropical depressions in less than 12 hours on Monday .
The first wave strengthened to Tropical Depression 7-E early Monday but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entering cooler waters .
Warm water is one of the prime ingredients needed for tropical systems to form and hold their strength .
Tropical Storm Cristina , which traversed the East Pacific earlier in July , nearly became the first hurricane of 2020 , but it fell just short of Category 1 hurricane strength .
The Atlantic Ocean basin has also been without a hurricane so far this season , but it is still breaking records following the development of Tropical Storm Gonzalo on Wednesday .
AccuWeather meteorologists are also monitoring another potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Hurricane Douglas is seen in the open Pacific Ocean on Monday afternoon after moving away from the Hawaiian Islands. Image courtesy NOAA/NHC
July 27 (UPI) -- Hurricane Douglas brushed the Hawaiian Islands early Monday as a Category 1 storm, and is expected to temporarily weaken before gaining speed in the coming days as it moves farther into the open Pacific Ocean. After peaking as a Category 4 hurricane last week, Douglas was downgraded to a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph, the National Hurricane Service said in a 11 a.m. HST update Monday. Advertisement
Douglas was moving west at 20 mph and was about 190 miles west-northwest of from Lihue, Hawaii, and 480 miles west-northwest of Honolulu.
The hurricane center previously said Douglas had "rapidly" moved away from Kauai, one of Hawaii's two westernmost islands.
The center said a hurricane warning is in effect for portions of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument from Nihoa to French Frigate Shoals, and a hurricane watch for portions of the Papahanaumokuakea monument from French Frigate Shoals to Maro Reef.
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A tropical storm warning also was in effect for portions of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument from French Frigate Shoals to Maro Reef, and a tropical storm watch was in effect from Maro Reef to Lisianski.
Douglas is expected to continue moving west-northwest over the next few days, with a slight turn to the west while it increases in forward speed. The hurricane center said the storm will slightly weaken, but remain a hurricane until it fully passes west of Kauai.
Before brushing Hawaii, Douglas had to battle through an area of moderate-to-high wind shear and cooler ocean water to maintain its hurricane status. Later Monday, it was forecast to be downgraded to a tropical storm and then to a tropical depression early Tuesday.
In anticipation of Douglas passing dangerously close to the islands, Hawaii Gov. David Ige issued a state of emergency declaration last week. Officials in Maui County warned residents that they should prepare to shelter in place as the storm approaches the island.
Sirens blared in Honolulu on Sunday as the storm approached.
Hawaiian Airlines canceled a handful of flights Saturday and Sunday and issued a travel waiver for all flights in and out of the islands through Tuesday.
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Douglas was expected to bring enough rainfall to cause isolated flash flooding and mudslides across the islands.
AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alan Reppert projected stronger winds would come out of the northwest as the storm approached and then out of the south as it departed.
"These wind directions are not typical for the islands, which usually see a more easterly or northeasterly wind direction. As such, the winds associated with Douglas could cause more damage than you would initially expected at these speeds," he said.
Winds will gradually dissipate into the middle of this week as the storm loses wind strength and moves away to the west.
After spending some time as a Category 4 hurricane Thursday night, Hurricane Douglas began to lose wind strength Friday. At peak intensity, the storm churned through the Pacific with winds of 130 mph.
Despite sitting in the middle of the Pacific, Hawaii isn't struck by many powerful hurricanes. Should Douglas make landfall in Hawaii, it would be only the third hurricane in recorded history to do so since 1959.
Hurricane Lane came dangerously close in 2018 but didn't make landfall. It did, however, unleash record-breaking rainfall.
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Arguably the most devastating storm in Hawaii's recorded history was Iniki in September 1992, when it caused billions of dollars in damage. Winds were recorded at 145 mph, and the story destroyed more than 1,420 houses.
Two tropical systems passed near Hawaii during the 2019 tropical season. Hurricane Erik sped just south of the Big Island as a tropical storm, before degenerating into a tropical depression Aug 4. Shortly thereafter, Hurricane Flossie passed close to the islands as a tropical depression Aug. 6 before dissipating north of the Big Island.
Hurricane Olivia in September 2018 was the last tropical system to bring direct impacts to the islands. The storm made landfall on Maui and Lanai as a tropical storm, which was the first landfall on these islands in recorded history.


upi--2020-07-22--Singapore wants F-35s at same base as F-16s, USAF still considering location

July 22 ( UPI ) -- Singapore has asked that its future F-35s be stationed at an airbase within the United States not on the shortlist of bases preferred by the U.S. Air Force .
Comprising only 278 square miles , Singapore is limited in the amount of space it can devote to airports and air bases .
The Republic of Singapore Air Force stations its units at eight locations within the country , with several detachments in the United States , France , Thailand and Australia .
With four F-35 purchased and an option to buy eight more , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to establish a `` Foreign Military Sales Training Center '' for F-35s at Luke Air Force Base , Ariz. , where Singapore currently maintains its squadron of F-16 planes .
A new training center `` in the continental United States which could accommodate up to 36 F-35 aircraft '' is under consideration , Ann Sefanek , U.S. Air Force spokeswoman told Defense News .
`` Based on negotiations with our foreign military sales customers as well as airspace and weather considerations , the Air Force is considering five candidate locations , '' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buckley AFB , Colo. ; Fort Smith Airport , Ark .
; Hulman Field , Ind ; Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland , Texas , and Selfridge Air National Guard Base , Mich .
It remains a possibility that if Fort Smith receives the designation , Singapore 's F-16s could be moved there .
Most of the bases on the shortlist have few or no permanently-stationed flying units , and none have the current capacity for F-35s , officials said .
Infrastructure improvements must be performed for any involvement , even on a rotational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regarded as the foremost fighter plane in the world , they said .

A Singapore Air Force F-16 planes completes an exercise at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Singapore has requested that its upcoming F-35 fleet also be stationed at the base. Photo by A1C Cody Miller/U.S. Air Force
July 22 (UPI) -- Singapore has asked that its future F-35s be stationed at an airbase within the United States not on the shortlist of bases preferred by the U.S. Air Force. Comprising only 278 square miles, Singapore is limited in the amount of space it can devote to airports and air bases. The Republic of Singapore Air Force stations its units at eight locations within the country, with several detachments in the United States, France, Thailand and Australia. Advertisement
With four F-35 purchased and an option to buy eight more, it has asked the U.S. Air Force to establish a "Foreign Military Sales Training Center" for F-35s at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., where Singapore currently maintains its squadron of F-16 planes.
A new training center "in the continental United States which could accommodate up to 36 F-35 aircraft" is under consideration, Ann Sefanek, U.S. Air Force spokeswoman told Defense News.
"Based on negotiations with our foreign military sales customers as well as airspace and weather considerations, the Air Force is considering five candidate locations," she said.
The locations under consideration include Buckley AFB, Colo.; Fort Smith Airport, Ark.; Hulman Field, Ind; Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, and Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich.
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It remains a possibility that if Fort Smith receives the designation, Singapore's F-16s could be moved there.
Most of the bases on the shortlist have few or no permanently-stationed flying units, and none have the current capacity for F-35s, officials said.
Infrastructure improvements must be performed for any involvement, even on a rotational basis, for F-35s, the plane regarded as the foremost fighter plane in the world, they said.


upi--2020-07-22--'Good salesman' leads Ontario man to lottery jackpot

July 22 ( UPI ) -- An Ontario man who collected a lottery jackpot of more than $ 60,000 said @ @ @ @ @ his ticket if a store clerk had n't talked him into the purchase .
Jack @ @ @ @ @ Timmins , told Ontario Lottery officials he was at the Esso on the Run store @ @ @ @ @ clerk sold him on the idea of buying a Lotto Max ticket for the June @ @ @ @ @ said , 'OK , ' '' Sikora recalled .
`` He was a good salesman @ @ @ @ @ fortunate when Sikora 's girlfriend used the Ontario Lottery and Gaming app to check his @ @ @ @ @ Winner message appeared and my eyes just about popped out of my head , '' @ @ @ @ @ said he might use some of the money to travel once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted @ @ @ @ @ idea what my plans are , all I know is I 'll have fun spending @ @ @ @ @ .

An Ontario man said a store clerk acting as a "good salesman" convinced him to buy the lottery ticket that earned him a jackpot of more than $61,000. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe July 22 (UPI) -- An Ontario man who collected a lottery jackpot of more than $60,000 said he might not have bought his ticket if a store clerk hadn't talked him into the purchase. Jack Sikora, 62, of Timmins, told Ontario Lottery officials he was at the Esso on the Run store in Timmins when the store clerk sold him on the idea of buying a Lotto Max ticket for the June 5 drawing. Advertisement
"I said, 'OK,'" Sikora recalled. "He was a good salesman."
The decision proved fortunate when Sikora's girlfriend used the Ontario Lottery and Gaming app to check his ticket.
"The Big Winner message appeared and my eyes just about popped out of my head," he said.
Sikora collected a $61,133.72 jackpot.
The winner said he might use some of the money to travel once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
"I have no idea what my plans are, all I know is I'll have fun spending it," Sikora said.


upi--2020-07-22--Venice reduces gondola capacity due to heavy tourists

July 22 ( UPI ) -- The city of Venice , Italy , is reducing the maximum capacity of its gondolas from six people to five , but the reason is n't related to COVID-19 -- it 's an issue of tourists ' weight .
Andrea Balbi , the president of Venice 's Gondola Association , which oversees the city 's 433 licensed gondoliers and 180 substitutes , said the decision was made to reduce the capacity of the boats to ease the strain on the boatmen who propel them .
`` Over the last 10 years or so , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having them step on a scale before they get on , we are limiting the number , '' Balbi told CNN .
Babi said capacity on the larger `` da parada '' gondolas , which mainly serve to ferry people across the grand canal , is also being reduced from 14 to 12 .
Raoul Roveratto , president of the association of substitute gondoliers , said the weight of passengers can sometimes cause the boats to take on water .
`` From some countries , it 's like bombs loading on and when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the hull sinks and water enters , '' he told the La Repubblica newspaper .
`` Going forward with over half a ton of meat on board is dangerous . ''

Officials in Venice, Italy, said the maximum capacity of the city's famous gondola boats is being reduced from six passengers to five due to the increasing weight of tourists in recent years. Photo by bogitw/Pixabay.com
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe July 22 (UPI) -- The city of Venice, Italy, is reducing the maximum capacity of its gondolas from six people to five, but the reason isn't related to COVID-19 -- it's an issue of tourists' weight. Andrea Balbi, the president of Venice's Gondola Association, which oversees the city's 433 licensed gondoliers and 180 substitutes, said the decision was made to reduce the capacity of the boats to ease the strain on the boatmen who propel them. Advertisement
"Over the last 10 years or so, tourists weigh more -- and rather than having them step on a scale before they get on, we are limiting the number," Balbi told CNN.
Babi said capacity on the larger "da parada" gondolas, which mainly serve to ferry people across the grand canal, is also being reduced from 14 to 12.
Raoul Roveratto, president of the association of substitute gondoliers, said the weight of passengers can sometimes cause the boats to take on water.
"From some countries, it's like bombs loading on and when [the boat] is fully loaded, the hull sinks and water enters," he told the La Repubblica newspaper. "Going forward with over half a ton of meat on board is dangerous."


upi--2020-07-22--Message in a bottle may have traveled from England to Rhode Island

July 22 ( UPI ) -- A Rhode Island man said he is unraveling the mystery of a message in a bottle that he believes traveled all the way from England .
Todd Ricci of South Kingstown said he was walking along the shore in Jamestown when he spotted a glass bottle among the rocks .
`` It 's old wavy glass with bubbles in it , '' Ricci told WJAR-TV .
`` It was a message in a bottle , the area I found it in , it 's just rocks .
I was amazed when I went down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ricci said the letter , addressed to `` Reena , '' appears to be about a friend who had recently died .
`` It refers to her friend who was sick .
She passed away and she wrote the letter , I guess , after the girl passed away as a farewell type of thing , '' Ricci said .
`` At first , I thought it was nothing .
Then , the more I broke it down and read it , I kind of was just like , 'It 's not from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said he believes the letter originated in England .
`` Pretty much all the research I 've done points to England , Europe , '' he said .
`` The word 'canteen ' is used , it opens up with the girl talking about the opening of her mother 's garden , which I found out is pretty much over there like an art show .
The word 'cheery ' is used and she refers to her mom as 'mum ' all the time . ''
Ricci said the note did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't know when it was thrown into the water , and did not list any contact information for its author .
Ricci shared photos of the bottle and the letter on social media in the hopes of locating the author .
`` I really would love to find the person who wrote it , if they 're still around and give it back to them .
Otherwise , I 'll probably throw it back at some point , '' he said .

A Rhode Island man who found a message in a bottle on the ocean shore said he believes the bottle may have originated in Europe. Photo by Atlantios/Pixabay.com
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe July 22 (UPI) -- A Rhode Island man said he is unraveling the mystery of a message in a bottle that he believes traveled all the way from England. Todd Ricci of South Kingstown said he was walking along the shore in Jamestown when he spotted a glass bottle among the rocks. Advertisement
"It's old wavy glass with bubbles in it," Ricci told WJAR-TV. "It was a message in a bottle, the area I found it in, it's just rocks. I was amazed when I went down there it wasn't broken."
Ricci said the letter, addressed to "Reena," appears to be about a friend who had recently died.
"It refers to her friend who was sick. She passed away and she wrote the letter, I guess, after the girl passed away as a farewell type of thing," Ricci said. "At first, I thought it was nothing. Then, the more I broke it down and read it, I kind of was just like, 'It's not from here, the terminology.'"
He said he believes the letter originated in England.
"Pretty much all the research I've done points to England, Europe," he said. "The word 'canteen' is used, it opens up with the girl talking about the opening of her mother's garden, which I found out is pretty much over there like an art show. The word 'cheery' is used and she refers to her mom as 'mum' all the time."
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Ricci said the note did not include a date, so he doesn't know when it was thrown into the water, and did not list any contact information for its author.
Ricci shared photos of the bottle and the letter on social media in the hopes of locating the author.
"I really would love to find the person who wrote it, if they're still around and give it back to them. Otherwise, I'll probably throw it back at some point," he said.