upi--2020-06-03--Watch live: SpaceX launch would boost Starlink network to 480 satellites

ORLANDO , Fla. , June 3 ( UPI ) -- The planned launch of 60 SpaceX Starlink satellites from Florida on Wednesday night would bring the company 's network of spacecraft in orbit to 480 , eclipsing by far any previous networks of communication satellites .
The launch is scheduled for 9:25 p.m. EDT on a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Launch Complex 40 .
There is a 60 percent chance of good launch weather , according to the Space Force forecast .
The size of the Starlink constellation already is large enough for `` minor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to SpaceX founder Elon Musk 's statements to the press before the first Starlink launch in 2019 .
But SpaceX has n't released more information about the network 's operation or its intended customers .
Starlink aims to provide next-generation broadband internet service to the globe , outpacing that offered by such players as Iridium or Intelsat .
SpaceX said in 2019 it aimed to launch 1,600 satellites in the first phase .
At that point , the satellites would transmit data to each other via laser pulses through the vacuum of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even fiber optic cables on Earth .
Starlink , which the company said could cost $ 10 billion to develop and launch , has boosted the value of SpaceX and its recent rounds of investment , according to stock analysts and SpaceX 's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission .
SpaceX raised $ 567 million , according to the commission documents filed in the last few months .
`` We are modeling for $ 10 billion to $ 15 billion from 2020-2025 for Starlink , with the potential for more from ground @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of satellites '' and other SpaceX endeavors , according to a recent note from analysts at Morgan Stanley .
Starlink also would owe some of its speed to its much lower orbit than previous communication satellite networks -- 340 miles up .
By comparison , Iridium satellites are about 485 miles up .
The Kármán line that defines space is 62 miles high , and the International Space Station is more than 250 miles high .
On this mission , SpaceX will launch the first Starlink satellite with a deployable visor to block @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spacecraft .
Musk announced April 27 that the sunshade , which he called a VisorSat , would be included in the next Starlink launch .
VisorSat is designed to prevent the satellites from reflecting sunlight back to the Earth , which can interrupt astronomy observations .
This will be the second Starlink launch during restrictions on access to the Air Force station due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The launch also comes on the heels of Saturday 's successful SpaceX launch of the first flight of NASA astronauts from U.S. soil since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 60 Starlink satellites at a time in May , November , on Jan. 6 and 29 , Feb. 17 , March 18 and April 22 , with two test satellites launched before that .
The first-stage booster for this launch previously flew four times , including the launch of an Iridium satellite in January 2019 , and two separate Starlink missions in May 2019 and January 2020 .
SpaceX will attempt to land the booster again on a barge in the Atlantic Ocean , and to recover the halves of the rocket nose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall back to the sea .

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A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket boosts the company's Starlink satellites to orbit Wednesday from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo by Joe Marino/UPI | License Photo
ORLANDO, Fla., June 3 (UPI) -- A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket lifted off on time Wednesday night from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, propelling 60 Starlink communications satellites into orbit. The successful launch boosted the number of Starlink satellites circling the Earth to 480, by far the greatest number of any communications network. Advertisement
Liftoff at 9:25 p.m. EDT came on a warm, humid night after skies cleared sufficiently to ensure a safe launch and adequate monitoring.
At about 2 minutes, 45 seconds after launch, the nine main engines of the rocket's first stage shut off, and that stage re-entered the Earth's atmosphere for recovery off Florida on the SpaceX barge named Just Read the Instructions.
The first stage landed mostly inside a bull's-eye on the flat deck.
The second stage carried the satellites into orbit successfully, SpaceX engineers said. Video showed the Starlink cluster deploying roughly 15 minutes after liftoff.
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The size of the Starlink constellation already is large enough for "minor" internet coverage around the world, according to SpaceX founder Elon Musk's statements to the press before the first Starlink launch in 2019.
But SpaceX hasn't released more information about the network's operation or its intended customers.
Starlink aims to provide next-generation broadband internet service to the globe, outpacing that offered by such players as Iridium or Intelsat. SpaceX said in 2019 it aimed to launch 1,600 satellites in the first phase.
At that point, the satellites would transmit data to each other via laser pulses through the vacuum of space -- a far faster method than even fiber optic cables on Earth.
Starlink, which the company said could cost $10 billion to develop and launch, has boosted the value of SpaceX and its recent rounds of investment, according to stock analysts and SpaceX's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
SpaceX raised $567 million, according to the commission documents filed in the last few months.
"We are modeling for $10 billion to $15 billion from 2020-2025 for Starlink, with the potential for more from ground terminals, 30,000 additional satellites and replacement of satellites" and other SpaceX endeavors, according to a recent note from analysts at Morgan Stanley.
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Starlink also would owe some of its speed to its much lower orbit than previous communication satellite networks -- 340 miles up.
By comparison, Iridium satellites are about 485 miles up. The Kármán line that defines space is 62 miles high, and the International Space Station is more than 250 miles high.
On this mission, SpaceX was to launch the first Starlink satellite with a visor to block sunlight from hitting the brightest spots of the spacecraft. Musk announced April 27 that the sunshade, which he called a VisorSat, would be included in the next Starlink launch.
VisorSat is designed to prevent the satellites from reflecting sunlight back to the Earth, which can interrupt astronomy observations.
This was the second Starlink launch during restrictions on access to the Air Force station due to the coronavirus pandemic. The launch also came on the heels of Saturday's successful SpaceX launch of the first flight of NASA astronauts from U.S. soil since 2011.
The space firm previously launched 60 Starlink satellites at a time in May, November, on Jan. 6 and 29, Feb. 17, March 18 and April 22, with two test satellites launched before that.
The first-stage booster for this launch previously flew four times, including the launch of an Iridium satellite in January 2019, and two separate Starlink missions in May 2019 and January 2020.
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Astronauts make round trip to space station from U.S. soil


upi--2020-06-03--Cristobal could approach U.S. Gulf Coast as hurricane

June 3 ( UPI ) -- Tropical Storm Cristobal , the third named tropical system of the Atlantic hurricane season , made landfall in southeastern Mexico early Wednesday and is forecast to continue lashing the country and parts of Central America with heavy rain and gusty winds into the end of the week .
Landfall occurred around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday near Atasta , Mexico , just to the west of the city of Ciudad Del Carmen in the state of Campeche .
At the time of landfall , maximum sustained winds of 60 mph were reported .
In its 7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the storm weakened to 45 mph maximum sustained winds .
The storm was located about 20 miles south of Cuidad del Carmen and was stationary .
AccuWeather meteorologists expect the system to bring the risk of life-threatening flooding and mudslides with some locations expected to receive over 2 feet of rain .
Cristobal became a tropical storm midday on Tuesday in the Bay of Campeche , located in the southwestern corner of the Gulf of Mexico .
`` With the upgrade to tropical storm status , a new record has been set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now become the earliest occurrence of a third named system in the Atlantic basin during any hurricane season in recorded history , '' said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski .
The previous record was set during the 2016 Atlantic hurricane season .
Tropical storm warnings were issued by the National Hurricane Center along the Mexico coast from Campeche to Coatzacoalcos Mexico .
Tropical storm warnings west of Coatzacoalcos were canceled late by late morning .
After becoming a tropical storm , Cristobal made a loop around the southern Bay of Campeche and moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flooding in the streets have emerged from the state of Tobasco all the way through the Yucatan Peninsula .
A total of 9,000 soldiers and National Guard members were put in position to help with preparations and relief work .
According to Tobasco Hoy , a local paper in Mexico , residents in at risk communities like El Bosque Rovirosa Segunda and La Costeñita were evacuated on Tuesday .
Waves up to 10 feet high in the area forced one harbor master in the region to close a maritime terminal for the fourth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ types .
`` With Cristobal this close to land , and even making landfall on Wednesday , the storm is likely to lose some wind strength in the coming day or two , '' said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Rob Miller .
Losing wind intensity may allow Cristobal to lose tropical storm status briefly and drop to a tropical depression .
Despite a possible drop in winds , heavy rainfall will continue to be the biggest threat to lives and property for southeastern Mexico into Friday .
`` The main impacts from Cristobal for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rainfall through Friday night , '' Miller said .
From Monday evening through early Wednesday morning , the city of Valladolid on the Yucatan Peninsula reported 9.6 inches of rain .
A highway on the Yucatan was reported to be flooded with rushing floodwaters .
After soaking the region for several days , widespread rainfall amounts of 10-20 inches are possible .
Southeastern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula are not the only regions that will feel the wrath of Cristobal through the end of the week .
`` Cristobal continues to pull in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ northern areas of Central America , drenching the region with heavy , tropical rainfall , '' Miller said .
On Wednesday , reports came in that heavy rain caused a landslide in El Salvador , affecting several homes and vehicles .
At least seven people were reported missing in Zacatecoluca .
Guatemala and El Salvador are the same areas that were hit badly by Tropical Storm Amanda over the past weekend , leading to widespread flooding and at least 20 deaths .
Amanda was the first tropical storm to make landfall on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only the second in recorded history .
Parts of Nicaragua and Honduras also continue to endure heavy rainfall into Wednesday .
After swirling around in the Bay of Campeche through the end of the week , Cristobal is forecast to turn northward late on Friday and travel through the western Gulf of Mexico and toward the United States this weekend .
As this happens , rainfall will begin to diminish across southeastern Mexico and Central America .
However , rough seas may linger along the Mexico Gulf Coast through the weekend .

Tropical Depression Cristobal is seen over Louisiana on Monday afternoon about a day after making landfall. Image courtesy NOAA
June 8 (UPI) -- Tropical Storm Cristobal weakened to a tropical depression early Monday hours after it arrived on shore on the Gulf Coast, lashed the Louisiana shoreline and unleashed heavy rains as far east as Florida's western coast. The National Hurricane Center said in its 10 a.m. Monday update that the storm's center is about 15 miles east of Monroe, La., and had maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. Advertisement
After lashing the central Gulf Coast with tropical downpours, tropical-storm-force winds and coastal flooding over the weekend, Cristobal will race northward along the Mississippi Valley and into Great Lakes into the middle of the week.
AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys said the storm will interact with the cold front moving across the Plains, allowing it to pick up speed. Cristobal made landfall in the southeastern part of Louisiana Sunday.
The storm has gradually lost intensity, weakening to a tropical depression early Monday morning.
"Even though Cristobal will lose its tightly wound wind field, as it transitions to a rainstorm, strong winds can still occur over a broad area," according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski.
This will be due in part to Cristobal's circulation getting caught up in a non-tropical storm set to eject out of the Rockies early this week. As these system's interact and perhaps merge, winds will become strong over a broad area of the Midwest and Great Lakes region.
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As Cristobal moves inland, conditions will begin to gradually improve along the Louisiana coast, as areas of heavier rain and thunderstorms drench Arkansas into Monday night.
Cristobal will continue to pick up forward speed on Tuesday and downpours are expected to spread from Missouri to Wisconsin and Minnesota. By Tuesday night, rain will cross the Canadian border and spread across parts of southern Ontario.
According to AccuWeather Meteorologist Courtney Travis, this amount of rain could cause creeks and streams across the Midwest to rise. However, more widespread river flooding may develop in the lower Mississippi Valley later this week or this weekend as runoff slowly flows downstream.
Otherwise, Cristobal will threaten areas of flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
In addition to the risk of flooding, there will be the potential for isolated tornadoes to be spawned where heavy thunderstorms erupt to the east of Cristobal's circulation.


upi--2020-06-03--Snapchat to stop promoting President Donald Trump's account

June 3 ( UPI ) -- Snap on Wednesday said it would no longer promote President Donald Trump 's account on its Snapchat app .
The company issued a statement saying Trump 's account would not be removed but would no longer be promoted on its `` Discover '' home page after a tweet he made threatening demonstrators protesting the police-involved killing of George Floyd .
He said they would face `` vicious dogs '' and `` ominous weapons '' if they breached the White House fence .
The comments did not appear on Trump 's Snapchat account .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's content on Snapchat 's Discover platform , '' the company said .
`` We will not amplify voices who incite racial violence and injustice by giving them free promotion on Discover .
Racial violence and injustice have no place in our society and we stand together with all who seek peace , love , equality and justice in America . ''
Trump campaign manager Brad Parscale issued a statement in response to the decision , accusing Snapchat of attempting to suppress Trump and `` rig the 2020 election . ''
Parscale delivered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flagged a pair of Trump 's tweets on mail-in voting as potentially misleading .
Trump responded by signing an executive order directing the Commerce Department to ask the Federal Communications Commission to reinterpret Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act , which protects Internet companies from lawsuits targeting the content of their sites .

Snapchat announced Wednesday it will no longer promote President Donald Trump's profile on the app's "Discover" page. Photo by Monika Graff/UPI | License Photo
June 3 (UPI) -- Snap on Wednesday said it would no longer promote President Donald Trump's account on its Snapchat app. The company issued a statement saying Trump's account would not be removed but would no longer be promoted on its "Discover" home page after a tweet he made threatening demonstrators protesting the police-involved killing of George Floyd. He said they would face "vicious dogs" and "ominous weapons" if they breached the White House fence. Advertisement
The comments did not appear on Trump's Snapchat account.
"We are not currently promoting the president's content on Snapchat's Discover platform," the company said. "We will not amplify voices who incite racial violence and injustice by giving them free promotion on Discover. Racial violence and injustice have no place in our society and we stand together with all who seek peace, love, equality and justice in America."
Trump campaign manager Brad Parscale issued a statement in response to the decision, accusing Snapchat of attempting to suppress Trump and "rig the 2020 election."
Parscale delivered a similar statement last week when Twitter flagged a pair of Trump's tweets on mail-in voting as potentially misleading.
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Trump responded by signing an executive order directing the Commerce Department to ask the Federal Communications Commission to reinterpret Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects Internet companies from lawsuits targeting the content of their sites.


upi--2020-06-03--Cyclone Nisarga lashing western India after unprecedented landfall

June 3 -- Nisarga battered western India with torrential rainfall and damaging winds into Wednesday evening after becoming the first tropical cyclone in recorded history to strike the city of Mumbai and surrounding districts during the month of June .
As a severe cyclonic storm on the India Meteorological Department 's tropical cyclone scale and the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane in the Atlantic and East Pacific Ocean basins , Nisarga crashed ashore in the state of Maharashtra Wednesday afternoon , local time , just south of the town of Alibagh .
After moving inland , Nisarga lost wind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cyclonic storm and then a deep depression , equivalent to a tropical storm in the Atlantic Ocean , Wednesday evening .
Mumbai , the country 's financial center and home to more than 18 million people , is rarely impacted by tropical cyclones and , prior to Nisarga , had never been hit by one in the month of June .
The IMD reported winds of 63 mph in Alibagh , just north of the landfall position .
As of midday on Wednesday , rainfall amounts were climbing towards 2 inches in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in India comes about two weeks after Cyclone Amphan throttled the northeastern region and only several days after the country 's government lifted many coronavirus lockdown restrictions .
India Prime Minister Narenda Modi was `` taking stock '' of the situation in western India ahead of the cyclone 's arrival .
`` Praying for everyone 's well-being .
I urge people to take all possible precautions and safety measures , '' he wrote on Twitter .
On Tuesday night , Asia New International reported that 40,000 people were evacuated from their homes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai minimized their flights on Tuesday night , and announced that the airport operations would be suspended because of the storm , instead redirecting flights to Ahmedabad , some 330 miles to the north .
The airport reopened at 6 p.m. on Wednesday .
The Pune airport also announced a pause in flights on Wednesday afternoon as Nisarga made landfall , according to FlightAware .
The India Coast Guard took to the water on Tuesday to usher in fisherman still out at sea , urging them to come ashore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afternoon , reports came in that 10 sailors were rescued after high tides and heavy rains swept their ship out to sea .
Mumbai 's Police Commissioner on Tuesday prohibited residents of the city to be out in public along the coast as Nisarga approaches , in order to help keep them safe .
The Chief Minister of Maharashtra , the region in which Mumbai is located , asked residents on Tuesday evening to remain indoors for the following two days in order to stay safe from Nisarga .
The government in Gujarat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deploying 10 of India 's National Disaster Response Force teams in anticipation of the storm .
While winds have lessened with Nisarga , heavy rain could continue to impact the region .
Into Thursday night , local time , widespread rainfall amounts of more than 4 inches are possible across southern Gujarat and Maharashtra , with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 9 inches .
Into Thursday , Nisarga is forecast to continue to lose wind strength .
Even so , the heavy rainfall is likely to drift into central India , dousing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the week .
Central Maharashtra to southern Madhya Pradesh .
Nisarga 's landfall in the Mumbai region is a rare and unprecedented event .
`` Prior to Nisarga , there had been no cyclonic storms that struck Mumbai/Bombay during the pre-monsoon period ( May-June ) , '' said AccuWeather lead international meteorologist Jason Nicholls .
Nicholls added that a total of three cyclonic storms have ever made landfall over or near Mumbai since 1891 , and all three occurred in October and November .
The latest was Phyan in 2009 .
AccuWeather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the basin since last week when it emerged as a tropical low .
The system strengthened to a depression on Monday morning , local time , before being upgraded to a deep depression .
On Tuesday afternoon local time , Nisarga was officially designated a Cyclonic Storm .

Cyclone Nisarga was the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane Wednesday. Photo courtesy of CIRA/RAMMB
June 3 -- Nisarga battered western India with torrential rainfall and damaging winds into Wednesday evening after becoming the first tropical cyclone in recorded history to strike the city of Mumbai and surrounding districts during the month of June. As a severe cyclonic storm on the India Meteorological Department's tropical cyclone scale and the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane in the Atlantic and East Pacific Ocean basins, Nisarga crashed ashore in the state of Maharashtra Wednesday afternoon, local time, just south of the town of Alibagh. Advertisement
After moving inland, Nisarga lost wind strength quickly, and was downgraded to a cyclonic storm and then a deep depression, equivalent to a tropical storm in the Atlantic Ocean, Wednesday evening.
Mumbai, the country's financial center and home to more than 18 million people, is rarely impacted by tropical cyclones and, prior to Nisarga, had never been hit by one in the month of June.
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The IMD reported winds of 63 mph in Alibagh, just north of the landfall position. As of midday on Wednesday, rainfall amounts were climbing towards 2 inches in the surrounding area.
Nisarga's landfall in India comes about two weeks after Cyclone Amphan throttled the northeastern region and only several days after the country's government lifted many coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
India Prime Minister Narenda Modi was "taking stock" of the situation in western India ahead of the cyclone's arrival. "Praying for everyone's well-being. I urge people to take all possible precautions and safety measures," he wrote on Twitter.
On Tuesday night, Asia New International reported that 40,000 people were evacuated from their homes and moved to safer locations.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai minimized their flights on Tuesday night, and announced that the airport operations would be suspended because of the storm, instead redirecting flights to Ahmedabad, some 330 miles to the north. The airport reopened at 6 p.m. on Wednesday.
The Pune airport also announced a pause in flights on Wednesday afternoon as Nisarga made landfall, according to FlightAware.
The India Coast Guard took to the water on Tuesday to usher in fisherman still out at sea, urging them to come ashore as soon as possible. On Wednesday afternoon, reports came in that 10 sailors were rescued after high tides and heavy rains swept their ship out to sea.
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Mumbai's Police Commissioner on Tuesday prohibited residents of the city to be out in public along the coast as Nisarga approaches, in order to help keep them safe.
The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the region in which Mumbai is located, asked residents on Tuesday evening to remain indoors for the following two days in order to stay safe from Nisarga.
The government in Gujarat announced on Monday evening that they were deploying 10 of India's National Disaster Response Force teams in anticipation of the storm.
While winds have lessened with Nisarga, heavy rain could continue to impact the region. Into Thursday night, local time, widespread rainfall amounts of more than 4 inches are possible across southern Gujarat and Maharashtra, with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 9 inches.
Into Thursday, Nisarga is forecast to continue to lose wind strength. Even so, the heavy rainfall is likely to drift into central India, dousing the region with tropical downpours into the end of the week. Central Maharashtra to southern Madhya Pradesh.
Nisarga's landfall in the Mumbai region is a rare and unprecedented event.
"Prior to Nisarga, there had been no cyclonic storms that struck Mumbai/Bombay during the pre-monsoon period (May-June)," said AccuWeather lead international meteorologist Jason Nicholls.
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Nicholls added that a total of three cyclonic storms have ever made landfall over or near Mumbai since 1891, and all three occurred in October and November. The latest was Phyan in 2009.
AccuWeather meteorologists have been tracking Nisarga's development through the basin since last week when it emerged as a tropical low. The system strengthened to a depression on Monday morning, local time, before being upgraded to a deep depression. On Tuesday afternoon local time, Nisarga was officially designated a Cyclonic Storm.


upi--2020-06-03--New charges filed against Minneapolis cops in George Floyd's death

June 3 ( UPI ) -- Minnesota authorities on Wednesday escalated the murder charge against former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin and levied charges against the other three officers involved in the arrest and death of George Floyd .
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced the new charges in an afternoon news conference .
`` Today , I filed an amended complaint that charges former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin with murder in the second-degree in the death of George Floyd , '' he said .
`` Second , today , arrest warrants were issued for former Minneapolis police officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thomas Lane and Tou Thao , '' charging them with aiding and abetting murder in the second-degree , Ellison added .
All three of the officers facing fresh charges Wednesday were arrested and booked by the Hennepin County Sheriff 's Office .
Chauvin has been in detention at Oak Park Heights state prison since Sunday .
`` Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree in George Floyd 's murder and also charging other 3 officers .
This is another important step for justice , '' she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's patience during the ongoing investigation .
`` As we develop a case for prosecution , we also will not be able to say much about it , '' he said , adding that investigators are working `` as quickly as we can . ''
The officers arrested Floyd outside a Cup Foods store on May 25 after a clerk reported that he used a counterfeit $ 20 bill .
Video of the police interaction showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd 's neck for more than 8 minutes as the latter was on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't breathe .
The Minneapolis Police Department fired the four officers one day after Floyd 's death , and the Hennepin County Attorney 's Office initially charged Chauvin with third-degree murder .
Minnesota Gov .
Tim Walz on Tuesday asked Ellison to take over the prosecution of the officers , leading to the new charges .
`` This is a bittersweet moment for the family of George Floyd , '' said Benjamin Crump , an attorney representing the Floyd family .
`` We are deeply gratified that Attorney General Keith Ellison took decisive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charging all the officers involved in George Floyd 's death and upgrading the charge against Derek Chauvin to felony second-degree murder , '' the statement continued .
In Minnesota , first- and second-degree murder mean prosecutors must be able to prove that Chauvin intended to kill Floyd .
Under third-degree murder , the defendant committed the crime against a person they believed to be `` eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind , without regard for human life . ''
Floyd 's death prompted protests across the globe calling for police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Hundreds of demonstrators march in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday to peacefully protest the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. On Wednesday, new charges were filed in the case. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
June 3 (UPI) -- Minnesota authorities on Wednesday escalated the murder charge against former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin and levied charges against the other three officers involved in the arrest and death of George Floyd. Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced the new charges in an afternoon news conference. Advertisement
"Today, I filed an amended complaint that charges former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin with murder in the second-degree in the death of George Floyd," he said.
"Second, today, arrest warrants were issued for former Minneapolis police officers J. [Alexander] Kueng, Thomas Lane and Tou Thao," charging them with aiding and abetting murder in the second-degree, Ellison added.
All three of the officers facing fresh charges Wednesday were arrested and booked by the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office. Chauvin has been in detention at Oak Park Heights state prison since Sunday.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., reported the charges on Twitter.
"Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison is increasing charges against Derek Chauvin to 2nd degree in George Floyd's murder and also charging other 3 officers. This is another important step for justice," she tweeted.
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Ellison asked for the public's patience during the ongoing investigation.
"As we develop a case for prosecution, we also will not be able to say much about it," he said, adding that investigators are working "as quickly as we can."
The officers arrested Floyd outside a Cup Foods store on May 25 after a clerk reported that he used a counterfeit $20 bill.
Video of the police interaction showed Chauvin kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than 8 minutes as the latter was on the ground, calling out that he couldn't breathe.
The Minneapolis Police Department fired the four officers one day after Floyd's death, and the Hennepin County Attorney's Office initially charged Chauvin with third-degree murder.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday asked Ellison to take over the prosecution of the officers, leading to the new charges.
"This is a bittersweet moment for the family of George Floyd," said Benjamin Crump, an attorney representing the Floyd family.
"We are deeply gratified that Attorney General Keith Ellison took decisive action in this case, arresting and charging all the officers involved in George Floyd's death and upgrading the charge against Derek Chauvin to felony second-degree murder," the statement continued.
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In Minnesota, first- and second-degree murder mean prosecutors must be able to prove that Chauvin intended to kill Floyd. Under third-degree murder, the defendant committed the crime against a person they believed to be "eminently dangerous to others and evincing a depraved mind, without regard for human life."
Floyd's death prompted protests across the globe calling for police reforms and an end to systemic racism.
Protesters demand justice in police killing of George Floyd


upi--2020-06-03--Teen pleads guilty to robbery in death of Barnard College freshman

June 3 ( UPI ) -- A teenager pleaded guilty Wednesday to a robbery charge in connection with the 2019 killing of college student Tessa Majors .
The 14-year-old issued a statement in family court saying he handed his friend a knife that was used in the fatal stabbing of Majors .
The teen was 13 at the time of the stabbing and was charged as a juvenile , while two other teens -- Rashaun Weaver , 15 , and Luciano Luis , 15 -- were both charged as adults for second-degree murder and robbery .
As part of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charge the younger teen with murder .
His lawyer said he was present and involved in the stabbing but was `` not the main actor . ''
He faces between six months and 18 months in juvenile detention when he is sentenced June 15 and will receive credit for time served since his December arrest .
Majors , an 18-year-old freshman ad Barnard College , was killed Dec. 11 in New York City 's Morningside Park in what authorities describe as a robbery gone wrong .
An autopsy found that she was stabbed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the stab wounds pierced her heart .
Trials for the two other teens , who were 14 years old at the time of the stabbing , are pending .

June 3 (UPI) -- A teenager pleaded guilty Wednesday to a robbery charge in connection with the 2019 killing of college student Tessa Majors.
The 14-year-old issued a statement in family court saying he handed his friend a knife that was used in the fatal stabbing of Majors.
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The teen was 13 at the time of the stabbing and was charged as a juvenile, while two other teens -- Rashaun Weaver, 15, and Luciano Luis, 15 -- were both charged as adults for second-degree murder and robbery.
As part of a plea deal, prosecutors agreed to not charge the younger teen with murder. His lawyer said he was present and involved in the stabbing but was "not the main actor."
He faces between six months and 18 months in juvenile detention when he is sentenced June 15 and will receive credit for time served since his December arrest.
Majors, an 18-year-old freshman ad Barnard College, was killed Dec. 11 in New York City's Morningside Park in what authorities describe as a robbery gone wrong.
An autopsy found that she was stabbed in the torso several times and that one of the stab wounds pierced her heart.
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Trials for the two other teens, who were 14 years old at the time of the stabbing, are pending.


upi--2020-06-03--U.S. protests death of George Floyd in police custody

U.S. protests death of George Floyd in police custody Protests broke out in cities across the United States the week @ @ @ @ @ , and have lasted for days , after a white police officer in Minneapolis was @ @ @ @ @ of George Floyd , an unarmed African-American man .
Floyd died and the officer has @ @ @ @ @ .

Demonstrators hold a sign in Los Angeles on June 14 for Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was shot by police in her home while she was sleeping. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI


upi--2020-06-03--Texans to cancel team meetings so players can attend George Floyd's funeral

June 3 ( UPI ) -- The Houston Texans wo n't hold virtual meetings June 9 , the day of George Floyd 's funeral in Houston , so members of the team can attend if they are able , Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said Wednesday .
O'Brien said he plans to attend the funeral .
`` On behalf of the Houston Texans organization and speaking from my heart , we want to send our deepest condolences to the family of George Floyd , '' O'Brien told reporters .
`` When I think about the recent conversations we 've had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I think of the words empathy and leadership .
`` We have to listen , we have to stand by the black community and we 've got to do our part to enact change .
We are committed to doing whatever it takes to promote social justice in our city and throughout our country . ''
Floyd , a 46-year-old black man from Houston , died in police custody last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than eight minutes .
Four police officers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chauvin was initially charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for pinning Floyd to the ground , an action that was caught on a widely viewed video .
On Wednesday , Minnesota authorities escalated the murder charge against Chauvin to second degree and levied charges against the other three officers involved in the arrest and death of Floyd .
O'Brien said his opinion on recent public issues has been shaped by discussions he 's had with players , including Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and wide receiver Kenny Stills , who followed Colin Kaepernick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Listening to their life stories , and many others , like I said , has helped me cement my belief that we all must do what it takes to improve our country , especially as it relates to race relations , '' O'Brien said .
`` It is horrendous what we are seeing and what we saw eight or nine days ago .
`` What is great about our country right now is , to me , the protests , the peaceful protests .
The peaceful protests that we see on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been an amazing example of what our country is all about . ''
O'Brien said the front office will meet with players and coaches Thursday to discuss Floyd 's death .
`` I 've told my players since 2014 that I have their back , '' O'Brien said .
`` I told my players in 2017 , ' I have your back . '
I will continue to tell them that I have their back .
If they need time to themselves , they can have time to themselves .
`` If they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begin to heal , we 've got to help them .
We 've got a lot of resources here to do that .
They will get it . ''

Texans head coach Bill O'Brien (pictured) plans to attend George Floyd's funeral in Houston, which is scheduled for June 9. File Photo by Trask Smith/UPI | License Photo
June 3 (UPI) -- The Houston Texans won't hold virtual meetings June 9, the day of George Floyd's funeral in Houston, so members of the team can attend if they are able, Texans head coach Bill O'Brien said Wednesday. O'Brien said he plans to attend the funeral. Advertisement
"On behalf of the Houston Texans organization and speaking from my heart, we want to send our deepest condolences to the family of George Floyd," O'Brien told reporters. "When I think about the recent conversations we've had with Janice, Cal and Hannah McNair, I think of the words empathy and leadership.
"We have to listen, we have to stand by the black community and we've got to do our part to enact change. We are committed to doing whatever it takes to promote social justice in our city and throughout our country."
Floyd, a 46-year-old black man from Houston, died in police custody last week in Minneapolis after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than eight minutes.
Four police officers were fired because of the incident, and Chauvin was initially charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter for pinning Floyd to the ground, an action that was caught on a widely viewed video.
Advertisement
On Wednesday, Minnesota authorities escalated the murder charge against Chauvin to second degree and levied charges against the other three officers involved in the arrest and death of Floyd.
O'Brien said his opinion on recent public issues has been shaped by discussions he's had with players, including Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and wide receiver Kenny Stills, who followed Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest during the national anthem.
"Listening to their life stories, and many others, like I said, has helped me cement my belief that we all must do what it takes to improve our country, especially as it relates to race relations," O'Brien said. "It is horrendous what we are seeing and what we saw eight or nine days ago.
"What is great about our country right now is, to me, the protests, the peaceful protests. The peaceful protests that we see on TV every night [have] just been an amazing example of what our country is all about."
O'Brien said the front office will meet with players and coaches Thursday to discuss Floyd's death.
"I've told my players since 2014 that I have their back," O'Brien said. "I told my players in 2017, 'I have your back.' I will continue to tell them that I have their back. If they need time to themselves, they can have time to themselves.
Advertisement
"If they need resources from us to try to begin to heal, we've got to help them. We've got a lot of resources here to do that. They will get it."


upi--2020-06-03--Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter respond to George Floyd's dea

Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter respond to George Floyd's death

June 3 ( UPI ) -- In the wake of nationwide protests over the Memorial Day death of George Floyd in the custody of Minneapolis police , President Donald Trump , as well as former Presidents Barack Obama , George W. Bush , Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carterhave spoken out .
Here are their words : Trump made these remarks in the Rose Garden of the White House on Tuesday , as quoted by a White House transcript : My first and highest duty as president is to defend our great country and the American people .
I swore an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation , and that is exactly what I will do .
All Americans were rightly sickened and revolted by the brutal death of George Floyd .
My administration is fully committed that , for George and his family , justice will be served .
He will not have died in vain .
But we can not allow the righteous cries and peaceful protesters to be drowned out by an angry mob .
The biggest victims of the rioting are peace-loving citizens in our poorest communities , and as their president , I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will fight to protect you .
I am your president of law and order , and an ally of all peaceful protesters .
But in recent days , our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists , violent mobs , arsonists , looters , criminals , rioters , Antifa , and others .
A number of state and local governments have failed to take necessary action to safeguard their residents .
Innocent people have been savagely beaten , like the young man in Dallas , Texas , who was left dying on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York viciously attacked by dangerous thugs .
Small-business owners have seen their dreams utterly destroyed .
New York 's finest have been hit in the face with bricks .
Brave nurses , who have battled the virus , are afraid to leave their homes .
A police precinct station has been overrun .
Here in the nation 's capital , the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial have been vandalized .
One of our most historic churches was set ablaze .
A federal officer in California , an African-American enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These are not acts of peaceful protest .
These are acts of domestic terror .
The destruction of innocent life and the spilling of innocent blood is an offense to humanity and a crime against God .
America needs creation , not destruction ; cooperation , not contempt ; security , not anarchy ; healing , not hatred ; justice , not chaos .
This is our mission , and we will succeed .
One hundred percent , we will succeed .
Our country always wins .
That is why I am taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and restore security and safety in America .
I am mobilizing all available federal resources -- civilian and military -- to stop the rioting and looting , to end the destruction and arson , and to protect the rights of law-abiding Americans , including your Second Amendment rights .
Therefore , the following measures are going into effect immediately : First , we are ending the riots and lawlessness that has spread throughout our country .
We will end it now .
Today , I have strongly recommended to every governor to deploy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we dominate the streets .
Mayors and governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled .
If a city or a state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents , then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them .
I am also taking swift and decisive action to protect our great capital , Washington , D.C. What happened in this city last night was a total disgrace .
As we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of heavily armed soldiers , military personnel , and law enforcement officers to stop the rioting , looting , vandalism , assaults and the wanton destruction of property .
We are putting everybody on warning : Our 7 o'clock curfew will be strictly enforced .
Those who threaten innocent life and property will be arrested , detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law .
I want the organizers of this terror to be on notice that you will face severe criminal penalties and lengthy sentences in jail .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instigators of this violence .
One law and order -- and that is what it is : one law .
We have one beautiful law .
And once that is restored and fully restored , we will help you , we will help your business , and we will help your family .
America is founded upon the rule of law .
It is the foundation of our prosperity , our freedom , and our very way of life .
But where there is no law , there is no opportunity .
Where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no liberty .
Where there is no safety , there is no future .
We must never give in to anger or hatred .
If malice or violence reigns , then none of us is free .
I take these actions today with firm resolve and with a true and passionate love for our country .
By far , our greatest days lie ahead .
Thank you very much . ''
Obama released this statement on Medium and via Twitter on Monday : '' As millions of people across the country take to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of unequal justice , I 've heard many ask how we can sustain momentum to bring about real change .
Ultimately , it 's going to be up to a new generation of activists to shape strategies that best fit the times .
But I believe there are some basic lessons to draw from past efforts that are worth remembering .
First , the waves of protests across the country represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system in the United States .
The overwhelming majority of participants have been peaceful , courageous , responsible and inspiring .
They deserve our respect and support , not condemnation -- something that police in cities like Camden [ N.J. ] and Flint [ Mich. ] have commendably understood .
On the other hand , the small minority of folks who 've resorted to violence in various forms , whether out of genuine anger or mere opportunism , are putting innocent people at risk , compounding the destruction of neighborhoods that are often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detracting from the larger cause .
I saw an elderly black woman being interviewed today in tears because the only grocery store in her neighborhood had been trashed .
If history is any guide , that store may take years to come back .
So let 's not excuse violence , or rationalize it , or participate in it .
If we want our criminal justice system , and American society at large , to operate on a higher ethical code , then we have to model that code ourselves .
Second , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recurrent problem of racial bias in our criminal justice system proves that only protests and direct action can bring about change , and that voting and participation in electoral politics is a waste of time .
I could n't disagree more .
The point of protest is to raise public awareness , to put a spotlight on injustice and to make the powers that be uncomfortable ; in fact , throughout American history , it 's often only been in response to protests and civil disobedience that the political system has even paid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , aspirations have to be translated into specific laws and institutional practices -- and in a democracy , that only happens when we elect government officials who are responsive to our demands .
Moreover , it 's important for us to understand which levels of government have the biggest impact on our criminal justice system and police practices .
When we think about politics , a lot of us focus only on the presidency and the federal government .
And yes , we should be fighting to make sure that we have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice Department and a federal judiciary that actually recognize the ongoing , corrosive role that racism plays in our society and want to do something about it .
But the elected officials who matter most in reforming police departments and the criminal justice system work at the state and local levels .
It 's mayors and county executives that appoint most police chiefs and negotiate collective bargaining agreements with police unions .
It 's district attorneys and state 's attorneys that decide whether or not to investigate and ultimately charge those involved in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positions .
In some places , police review boards with the power to monitor police conduct are elected as well .
Unfortunately , voter turnout in these local races is usually pitifully low , especially among young people -- which makes no sense given the direct impact these offices have on social justice issues , not to mention the fact that who wins and who loses those seats is often determined by just a few thousand , or even a few hundred , votes .
So the bottom line is this : If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then the choice is n't between protest and politics .
We have to do both .
We have to mobilize to raise awareness , and we have to organize and cast our ballots to make sure that we elect candidates who will act on reform .
Finally , the more specific we can make demands for criminal justice and police reform , the harder it will be for elected officials to just offer lip service to the cause and then fall back into business as usual once protests have gone away .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ be different for various communities .
A big city may need one set of reforms ; a rural community may need another .
Some agencies will require wholesale rehabilitation ; others should make minor improvements .
Every law enforcement agency should have clear policies , including an independent body that conducts investigations of alleged misconduct .
Tailoring reforms for each community will require local activists and organizations to do their research and educate fellow citizens in their community on what strategies work best .
But as a starting point , here 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Conference on Civil and Human Rights and based on the work of the Task Force on 21st Century Policing that I formed when I was in the White House .
And if you 're interested in taking concrete action , we 've also created a dedicated site at the Obama Foundation to aggregate and direct you to useful resources and organizations who 've been fighting the good fight at the local and national levels for years .
I recognize that these past few months have been hard and dispiriting -- that the fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pandemic have been compounded by tragic reminders that prejudice and inequality still shape so much of American life .
But watching the heightened activism of young people in recent weeks , of every race and every station , makes me hopeful .
If , going forward , we can channel our justifiable anger into peaceful , sustained and effective action , then this moment can be a real turning point in our nation 's long journey to live up to our highest ideals .
`` Laura and I are anguished by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the injustice and fear that suffocate our country .
Yet we have resisted the urge to speak out , because this is not the time for us to lecture .
It is time for us to listen .
It is time for America to examine our tragic failures -- and as we do , we will also see some of our redeeming strengths .
It remains a shocking failure that many African Americans , especially young African-American men , are harassed and threatened in their own country .
It is a strength @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforcement , march for a better future .
This tragedy -- in a long series of similar tragedies -- raises a long overdue question : How do we end systemic racism in our society ?
The only way to see ourselves in a true light is to listen to the voices of so many who are hurting and grieving .
Those who set out to silence those voices do not understand the meaning of America -- or how it becomes a better place .
America 's greatest challenge has long been to unite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single nation of justice and opportunity .
The doctrine and habits of racial superiority , which once nearly split our country , still threaten our union .
The answers to American problems are found by living up to American ideals -- to the fundamental truth that all human beings are created equal and endowed by God with certain rights .
We have often underestimated how radical that quest really is , and how our cherished principles challenge systems of intended or assumed injustice .
The heroes of America -- from Frederick Douglass , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to Martin Luther King Jr. -- are heroes of unity .
Their calling has never been for the fainthearted .
They often revealed the nation 's disturbing bigotry and exploitation -- stains on our character sometimes difficult for the American majority to examine .
We can only see the reality of America 's need by seeing it through the eyes of the threatened , oppressed and disenfranchised .
That is exactly where we now stand .
Many doubt the justice of our country and with good reason .
Black people see the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urgent and adequate response from American institutions .
We know that lasting justice will only come by peaceful means .
Looting is not liberation , and destruction is not progress .
But we also know that lasting peace in our communities requires truly equal justice .
The rule of law ultimately depends on the fairness and legitimacy of the legal system .
And achieving justice for all is the duty of all .
This will require a consistent , courageous and creative effort .
We serve our neighbors best when we try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neighbors as ourselves when we treat them as equals , in both protection and compassion .
There is a better way -- the way of empathy and shared commitment and bold action and a peace rooted in justice .
I am confident that together , Americans will choose the better way . ''
`` In the days since George Floyd 's death , it is impossible not to feel grief for his family -- and anger , revulsion and frustration that his death is the latest in a long line of tragedy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person 's race still determines how they will be treated in nearly every aspect of American life .
No one deserves to die the way George Floyd did .
And the truth is , if you 're white in America , the chances are you wo n't .
That truth is what underlies the pain and the anger that so many are feeling and expressing -- that the path of an entire life can be measured and devalued by the color of one 's skin .
Fifty-seven years ago , Dr. [ Martin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a day when his 'four little children would be judged not by the color of their skin , but by the content of their character . '
Today , that dream seems even more out of reach , and we 'll never reach it if we keep treating people of color with the unspoken assumption that they 're less human .
We need to see each other as equally deserving of life , liberty , respect , dignity and the presumption of innocence .
We need to ask ourselves and each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the answers .
If George Floyd had been white , handcuffed and lying on the ground , would he be alive today ?
Why does this keep happening ?
What can we do to ensure that every community has the police department it needs and deserves ?
What can I do ?
We ca n't honestly answer these questions in the divide and conquer , us vs. them , shift the blame and shirk the responsibility world we 're living in .
People with power should go first -- answer the questions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who 's 'them , ' accept some blame and assume more responsibility .
But the rest of us have to answer these questions , too .
It 's the least we can do for George Floyd 's family , and the families of all other Americans who have been judged by the color of their skin rather than by the content of their character .
The future of the country depends on it . ''
Rosalynn and I are pained by the tragic racial injustices and consequent backlash across our nation in recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victims ' families and all who feel hopeless in the face of pervasive racial discrimination and outright cruelty .
We all must shine a spotlight on the immorality of racial discrimination .
But violence , whether spontaneous or consciously incited , is not a solution .
As a white male of the South , I know all too well the impact of segregation and injustice to African Americans .
As a politician , I felt a responsibility to bring equity to my state and our country .
In my 1971 inaugural address as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The time for racial discrimination is over . ''
With great sorrow and disappointment , I repeat those words today , nearly five decades later .
Dehumanizing people debases us all ; humanity is beautifully and almost infinitely diverse .
The bonds of our common humanity must overcome the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices .
Since leaving the White House in 1981 , Rosalynn and I have strived to advance human rights in countries around the world .
In this quest , we have seen that silence can be as deadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ privilege , and moral conscience must stand up and say `` no more '' to a racially discriminatory police and justice system , immoral economic disparities between whites and blacks , and government actions that undermine our unified democracy .
We are responsible for creating a world of peace and equality for ourselves and future generations .
We need a government as good as its people , and we are better than this .

President Donald Trump delivers remarks in the Rose Garden at the White House on Monday on the death of George Floyd in police custody. Photo by Shawn Thew/UPI | License Photo
June 3 (UPI) -- In the wake of nationwide protests over the Memorial Day death of George Floyd in the custody of Minneapolis police, President Donald Trump, as well as former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter have spoken out. Here are their words: Advertisement
President Donald Trump
Trump made these remarks in the Rose Garden of the White House on Tuesday, as quoted by a White House transcript:
"My fellow Americans,
My first and highest duty as president is to defend our great country and the American people. I swore an oath to uphold the laws of our nation, and that is exactly what I will do.
All Americans were rightly sickened and revolted by the brutal death of George Floyd. My administration is fully committed that, for George and his family, justice will be served. He will not have died in vain. But we cannot allow the righteous cries and peaceful protesters to be drowned out by an angry mob. The biggest victims of the rioting are peace-loving citizens in our poorest communities, and as their president, I will fight to keep them safe. I will fight to protect you. I am your president of law and order, and an ally of all peaceful protesters.
Advertisement
But in recent days, our nation has been gripped by professional anarchists, violent mobs, arsonists, looters, criminals, rioters, Antifa, and others. A number of state and local governments have failed to take necessary action to safeguard their residents. Innocent people have been savagely beaten, like the young man in Dallas, Texas, who was left dying on the street, or the woman in upstate New York viciously attacked by dangerous thugs.
Small-business owners have seen their dreams utterly destroyed. New York's finest have been hit in the face with bricks. Brave nurses, who have battled the virus, are afraid to leave their homes. A police precinct station has been overrun. Here in the nation's capital, the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial have been vandalized. One of our most historic churches was set ablaze. A federal officer in California, an African-American enforcement hero, was shot and killed.
These are not acts of peaceful protest. These are acts of domestic terror. The destruction of innocent life and the spilling of innocent blood is an offense to humanity and a crime against God.
America needs creation, not destruction; cooperation, not contempt; security, not anarchy; healing, not hatred; justice, not chaos. This is our mission, and we will succeed. One hundred percent, we will succeed. Our country always wins.
Advertisement
That is why I am taking immediate presidential action to stop the violence and restore security and safety in America. I am mobilizing all available federal resources -- civilian and military -- to stop the rioting and looting, to end the destruction and arson, and to protect the rights of law-abiding Americans, including your Second Amendment rights.
Therefore, the following measures are going into effect immediately:
First, we are ending the riots and lawlessness that has spread throughout our country. We will end it now. Today, I have strongly recommended to every governor to deploy the National Guard in sufficient numbers that we dominate the streets. Mayors and governors must establish an overwhelming law enforcement presence until the violence has been quelled.
If a city or a state refuses to take the actions that are necessary to defend the life and property of their residents, then I will deploy the United States military and quickly solve the problem for them.
I am also taking swift and decisive action to protect our great capital, Washington, D.C. What happened in this city last night was a total disgrace. As we speak, I am dispatching thousands and thousands of heavily armed soldiers, military personnel, and law enforcement officers to stop the rioting, looting, vandalism, assaults and the wanton destruction of property.
Advertisement
We are putting everybody on warning: Our 7 o'clock curfew will be strictly enforced. Those who threaten innocent life and property will be arrested, detained and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
I want the organizers of this terror to be on notice that you will face severe criminal penalties and lengthy sentences in jail. This includes Antifa and others who are leading instigators of this violence.
One law and order -- and that is what it is: one law. We have one beautiful law. And once that is restored and fully restored, we will help you, we will help your business, and we will help your family.
America is founded upon the rule of law. It is the foundation of our prosperity, our freedom, and our very way of life. But where there is no law, there is no opportunity. Where there is no justice, there is no liberty. Where there is no safety, there is no future.
We must never give in to anger or hatred. If malice or violence reigns, then none of us is free.
I take these actions today with firm resolve and with a true and passionate love for our country. By far, our greatest days lie ahead.
Advertisement
Thank you very much."
Former President Barack Obama
Obama released this statement on Medium and via Twitter on Monday:
"As millions of people across the country take to the streets and raise their voices in response to the killing of George Floyd and the ongoing problem of unequal justice, I've heard many ask how we can sustain momentum to bring about real change.
Ultimately, it's going to be up to a new generation of activists to shape strategies that best fit the times. But I believe there are some basic lessons to draw from past efforts that are worth remembering.
First, the waves of protests across the country represent a genuine and legitimate frustration over a decades-long failure to reform police practices and the broader criminal justice system in the United States. The overwhelming majority of participants have been peaceful, courageous, responsible and inspiring. They deserve our respect and support, not condemnation -- something that police in cities like Camden [N.J.] and Flint [Mich.] have commendably understood.
On the other hand, the small minority of folks who've resorted to violence in various forms, whether out of genuine anger or mere opportunism, are putting innocent people at risk, compounding the destruction of neighborhoods that are often already short on services and investment and detracting from the larger cause. I saw an elderly black woman being interviewed today in tears because the only grocery store in her neighborhood had been trashed. If history is any guide, that store may take years to come back. So let's not excuse violence, or rationalize it, or participate in it. If we want our criminal justice system, and American society at large, to operate on a higher ethical code, then we have to model that code ourselves.
Advertisement
Second, I've heard some suggest that the recurrent problem of racial bias in our criminal justice system proves that only protests and direct action can bring about change, and that voting and participation in electoral politics is a waste of time. I couldn't disagree more. The point of protest is to raise public awareness, to put a spotlight on injustice and to make the powers that be uncomfortable; in fact, throughout American history, it's often only been in response to protests and civil disobedience that the political system has even paid attention to marginalized communities. But eventually, aspirations have to be translated into specific laws and institutional practices -- and in a democracy, that only happens when we elect government officials who are responsive to our demands.
Moreover, it's important for us to understand which levels of government have the biggest impact on our criminal justice system and police practices. When we think about politics, a lot of us focus only on the presidency and the federal government. And yes, we should be fighting to make sure that we have a president, a Congress, a U.S. Justice Department and a federal judiciary that actually recognize the ongoing, corrosive role that racism plays in our society and want to do something about it. But the elected officials who matter most in reforming police departments and the criminal justice system work at the state and local levels.
Advertisement
It's mayors and county executives that appoint most police chiefs and negotiate collective bargaining agreements with police unions. It's district attorneys and state's attorneys that decide whether or not to investigate and ultimately charge those involved in police misconduct. Those are all elected positions. In some places, police review boards with the power to monitor police conduct are elected as well. Unfortunately, voter turnout in these local races is usually pitifully low, especially among young people -- which makes no sense given the direct impact these offices have on social justice issues, not to mention the fact that who wins and who loses those seats is often determined by just a few thousand, or even a few hundred, votes.
So the bottom line is this: If we want to bring about real change, then the choice isn't between protest and politics. We have to do both. We have to mobilize to raise awareness, and we have to organize and cast our ballots to make sure that we elect candidates who will act on reform.
Finally, the more specific we can make demands for criminal justice and police reform, the harder it will be for elected officials to just offer lip service to the cause and then fall back into business as usual once protests have gone away. The content of that reform agenda will be different for various communities. A big city may need one set of reforms; a rural community may need another. Some agencies will require wholesale rehabilitation; others should make minor improvements. Every law enforcement agency should have clear policies, including an independent body that conducts investigations of alleged misconduct. Tailoring reforms for each community will require local activists and organizations to do their research and educate fellow citizens in their community on what strategies work best.
Advertisement
But as a starting point, here's a report and toolkit developed by the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights and based on the work of the Task Force on 21st Century Policing that I formed when I was in the White House. And if you're interested in taking concrete action, we've also created a dedicated site at the Obama Foundation to aggregate and direct you to useful resources and organizations who've been fighting the good fight at the local and national levels for years.
I recognize that these past few months have been hard and dispiriting -- that the fear, sorrow, uncertainty and hardship of a pandemic have been compounded by tragic reminders that prejudice and inequality still shape so much of American life. But watching the heightened activism of young people in recent weeks, of every race and every station, makes me hopeful. If, going forward, we can channel our justifiable anger into peaceful, sustained and effective action, then this moment can be a real turning point in our nation's long journey to live up to our highest ideals.
Let's get to work."
Former President George W. Bush
Advertisement
Bush released this statement Tuesday:
"Laura and I are anguished by the brutal suffocation of George Floyd and disturbed by the injustice and fear that suffocate our country. Yet we have resisted the urge to speak out, because this is not the time for us to lecture. It is time for us to listen. It is time for America to examine our tragic failures -- and as we do, we will also see some of our redeeming strengths.
It remains a shocking failure that many African Americans, especially young African-American men, are harassed and threatened in their own country. It is a strength when protesters, protected by responsible law enforcement, march for a better future. This tragedy -- in a long series of similar tragedies -- raises a long overdue question: How do we end systemic racism in our society? The only way to see ourselves in a true light is to listen to the voices of so many who are hurting and grieving. Those who set out to silence those voices do not understand the meaning of America -- or how it becomes a better place.
America's greatest challenge has long been to unite people of very different backgrounds into a single nation of justice and opportunity. The doctrine and habits of racial superiority, which once nearly split our country, still threaten our union. The answers to American problems are found by living up to American ideals -- to the fundamental truth that all human beings are created equal and endowed by God with certain rights. We have often underestimated how radical that quest really is, and how our cherished principles challenge systems of intended or assumed injustice.
Advertisement
The heroes of America -- from Frederick Douglass, to Harriet Tubman, to Abraham Lincoln, to Martin Luther King Jr. -- are heroes of unity. Their calling has never been for the fainthearted. They often revealed the nation's disturbing bigotry and exploitation -- stains on our character sometimes difficult for the American majority to examine. We can only see the reality of America's need by seeing it through the eyes of the threatened, oppressed and disenfranchised. That is exactly where we now stand.
Many doubt the justice of our country and with good reason. Black people see the repeated violation of their rights without an urgent and adequate response from American institutions. We know that lasting justice will only come by peaceful means. Looting is not liberation, and destruction is not progress. But we also know that lasting peace in our communities requires truly equal justice. The rule of law ultimately depends on the fairness and legitimacy of the legal system. And achieving justice for all is the duty of all.
This will require a consistent, courageous and creative effort. We serve our neighbors best when we try to understand their experience. We love our neighbors as ourselves when we treat them as equals, in both protection and compassion. There is a better way -- the way of empathy and shared commitment and bold action and a peace rooted in justice. I am confident that together, Americans will choose the better way."
Advertisement
Former President Bill Clinton
Clinton released this statement on Saturday:
"In the days since George Floyd's death, it is impossible not to feel grief for his family -- and anger, revulsion and frustration that his death is the latest in a long line of tragedy and injustice and a painful reminder that a person's race still determines how they will be treated in nearly every aspect of American life.
No one deserves to die the way George Floyd did. And the truth is, if you're white in America, the chances are you won't. That truth is what underlies the pain and the anger that so many are feeling and expressing -- that the path of an entire life can be measured and devalued by the color of one's skin.
Fifty-seven years ago, Dr. [Martin Luther] King [Jr.] dreamed of a day when his 'four little children would be judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.' Today, that dream seems even more out of reach, and we'll never reach it if we keep treating people of color with the unspoken assumption that they're less human.
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We need to see each other as equally deserving of life, liberty, respect, dignity and the presumption of innocence. We need to ask ourselves and each other hard questions, and listen carefully to the answers.
Here's where I'd start.
If George Floyd had been white, handcuffed and lying on the ground, would he be alive today?
Why does this keep happening?
What can we do to ensure that every community has the police department it needs and deserves?
What can I do?
We can't honestly answer these questions in the divide and conquer, us vs. them, shift the blame and shirk the responsibility world we're living in. People with power should go first -- answer the questions, expand who's 'us' and shrink who's 'them,' accept some blame and assume more responsibility. But the rest of us have to answer these questions, too.
It's the least we can do for George Floyd's family, and the families of all other Americans who have been judged by the color of their skin rather than by the content of their character. The future of the country depends on it."
Former President Jimmy Carter
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Carter released this statement on Wednesday:
"Rosalynn and I are pained by the tragic racial injustices and consequent backlash across our nation in recent weeks. Our hearts are with the victims' families and all who feel hopeless in the face of pervasive racial discrimination and outright cruelty. We all must shine a spotlight on the immorality of racial discrimination. But violence, whether spontaneous or consciously incited, is not a solution.
As a white male of the South, I know all too well the impact of segregation and injustice to African Americans. As a politician, I felt a responsibility to bring equity to my state and our country. In my 1971 inaugural address as Georgia's governor, I said: 'The time for racial discrimination is over.' With great sorrow and disappointment, I repeat those words today, nearly five decades later. Dehumanizing people debases us all; humanity is beautifully and almost infinitely diverse. The bonds of our common humanity must overcome the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.
Since leaving the White House in 1981, Rosalynn and I have strived to advance human rights in countries around the world. In this quest, we have seen that silence can be as deadly as violence. People of power, privilege and moral conscience must stand up and say 'no more' to a racially discriminatory police and justice system, immoral economic disparities between whites and blacks and government actions that undermine our unified democracy. We are responsible for creating a world of peace and equality for ourselves and future generations.
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We need a government as good as its people, and we are better than this."


upi--2020-06-03--Former UAW President Gary Jones pleads guilty to embezzling union funds

June 3 ( UPI ) -- The former president of United Auto Workers , Gary Jones , pleaded guilty Wednesday to embezzling union funds .
Jones entered a guilty plea to charges of conspiracy to embezzle union funds , racketeering and tax evasion .
He and two co-conspirators were accused of embezzling more than $ 1.5 million .
Each count carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $ 250,000 fine , however federal guidelines call for a maximum sentence of 57 months .
Under a plea agreement with prosecutors , Jones has agreed to cooperate in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than a dozen others also accused of misusing union funds and to forfeit $ 140,000 in illegally obtained money .
In exchange , the U.S. Attorney 's Office has agreed to seek a lesser sentence .
Prosecutors said Jones spent about $ 60,000 on cigars and smoking paraphernalia .
On Wednesday Jones said he filed expense reports to the UAW that concealed his use of union funds .
`` While some of these expenditures were related to union activities , others were personal in nature and did not relate to union business , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that my actions violated the law as well as my sworn obligation to my fellow union members . ''
Current UAW President Rory Gamble issued a statement Wednesday , saying Jones and other union officials violated the trust of union members .
`` Their actions were selfish , immoral and against everything we stand for as a union , '' Gamble said .

June 3 (UPI) -- The former president of United Auto Workers, Gary Jones, pleaded guilty Wednesday to embezzling union funds.
Jones entered a guilty plea to charges of conspiracy to embezzle union funds, racketeering and tax evasion. He and two co-conspirators were accused of embezzling more than $1.5 million.
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Each count carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, however federal guidelines call for a maximum sentence of 57 months.
Under a plea agreement with prosecutors, Jones has agreed to cooperate in an investigation into a scandal involving more than a dozen others also accused of misusing union funds and to forfeit $140,000 in illegally obtained money.
In exchange, the U.S. Attorney's Office has agreed to seek a lesser sentence.
Prosecutors said Jones spent about $60,000 on cigars and smoking paraphernalia. On Wednesday Jones said he filed expense reports to the UAW that concealed his use of union funds.
"While some of these expenditures were related to union activities, others were personal in nature and did not relate to union business," he said. "I recognize that my actions violated the law as well as my sworn obligation to my fellow union members."
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Current UAW President Rory Gamble issued a statement Wednesday, saying Jones and other union officials violated the trust of union members.
"Their actions were selfish, immoral and against everything we stand for as a union," Gamble said.


upi--2020-06-03--Stacey Abrams advocates for vote-by-mail ahead of presidential election

Georgia voting rights activist Stacey Abrams and Michigan 's top election official said Wednesday that the federal government must provide support to states to protect voters from COVID-19 and ensure all Americans can vote by mail in the November election .
`` The solution to promote both public health and participation in our democracy is to expand access to vote-by-mail to establish uniform guidelines for 2020 so that where we live in our country will not diminish our right to participate in November 's elections , '' Abrams testified at a hearing of the House judiciary 's Subcommittee on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Abrams lost a bid for governor of Georgia in 2018 amid a controversy over voter purges .
She pointed to Wisconsin 's April 7 primary election -- which resulted in the spread of at least 71 cases of COVID-19 -- as an example of what she does not want to happen in November .
`` The challenge is clear and uncontroverted , '' Abrams said .
`` Crowded polling places pose a risk for voters and for the brave poll workers who risked their lives to help our democracy function during this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reduce the number of voters who will cast their ballots in person on election day through national access to vote-by-mail . ''
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson echoed Abrams ' call for federal assistance in her testimony .
`` Democracy can and will survive this pandemic , '' Benson said .
`` But we need your ongoing help .
We need all of us , working together across party lines , and investment and support to ensure that it does . ''
Benson added that `` voters need clear choices on how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` states need clear guidance and support '' from the federal government to provide alternative voting methods .
Abrams said all 50 states have the capacity to offer vote-by-mail in November .
But a change of heart from some Republicans and additional financial support are needed to make it happen .
Many Republicans oppose vote-by-mail systems , making unsubstantiated claims that it leads to widespread voter fraud .
Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana , the top Republican on the subcommittee , said at the hearing that he is `` concerned that the changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our nation conducting elections only by mail and ballot harvesting being legalized nationwide . ''
Johnson added that while he is concerned about the pandemic , `` now is not the time to upend this nation 's election system , there 's too much at risk . ''
`` We should be discussing how to vote in person and to do it safely in light of the new circumstance , '' Johnson said .
`` There is NO WAY ( ZERO ! )
that Mail-In Ballots will be anything less than substantially fraudulent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in late May .
`` Mail boxes will be robbed , ballots will be forged & even illegally printed out & fraudulently signed . ''
The Washington Post , CNN and Twitter fact-checked the president 's claims and found they were unsubstantiated .
Trump 's attacks against vote-by-mail have targeted mostly Democrat-run states , such as California and Michigan .
However , perhaps the most high-profile case of vote-by-mail fraud in recent years was carried out by a Republican operative in North Carolina , who collected and sometimes completed absentee ballots in 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of State Kim Wyman , a Republican , told reporters that vote-by-mail `` balances out ... good security with really wide access for our voters . ''
Washington state conducts all of its elections by mail .
`` Out of the 3.2 million or so ballots that were cast in 2018 in Washington , it appears that about 140 people may have voted more than once or voted ... on behalf of a deceased family member , '' Wyman said in April .
`` Is it perfect ?
No .
Is it rampant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , director of the American Civil Liberties Union 's voting rights project , said at the hearing Wednesday that the coronavirus pandemic presents the biggest logistical challenge to a presidential election since the Civil War in 1864 .
`` States can adjust now to protect every American 's right to vote safely during the pandemic , '' Ho said , adding that Tennessee , Louisiana , Texas , Mississippi and Missouri are the only remaining states that will not let all voters vote absentee during the pandemic .
`` Your elected representatives are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said House judiciary committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler , D-N.Y. `` We do not deserve that title if we deny you the right to cast your ballot in November or if we force you to choose between exercising that right and protecting your own health . ''

Former Georgia state Rep. Stacey Abrams said all Americans, regardless of where they live, should have the same opportunities to vote by mail in November. File Photo by Pat Benic/UPI | License Photo
Georgia voting rights activist Stacey Abrams and Michigan's top election official said Wednesday that the federal government must provide support to states to protect voters from COVID-19 and ensure all Americans can vote by mail in the November election. "The solution to promote both public health and participation in our democracy is to expand access to vote-by-mail to establish uniform guidelines for 2020 so that where we live in our country will not diminish our right to participate in November's elections," Abrams testified at a hearing of the House judiciary's Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. Advertisement
Abrams lost a bid for governor of Georgia in 2018 amid a controversy over voter purges.
She pointed to Wisconsin's April 7 primary election -- which resulted in the spread of at least 71 cases of COVID-19 -- as an example of what she does not want to happen in November.
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"The challenge is clear and uncontroverted," Abrams said. "Crowded polling places pose a risk for voters and for the brave poll workers who risked their lives to help our democracy function during this pandemic. Our first obligation is to reduce the number of voters who will cast their ballots in person on election day through national access to vote-by-mail."
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson echoed Abrams' call for federal assistance in her testimony.
"Democracy can and will survive this pandemic," Benson said. "But we need your ongoing help. We need all of us, working together across party lines, and investment and support to ensure that it does."
Benson added that "voters need clear choices on how to vote this year" and that "states need clear guidance and support" from the federal government to provide alternative voting methods.
Abrams said all 50 states have the capacity to offer vote-by-mail in November. But a change of heart from some Republicans and additional financial support are needed to make it happen.
Many Republicans oppose vote-by-mail systems, making unsubstantiated claims that it leads to widespread voter fraud.
Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana, the top Republican on the subcommittee, said at the hearing that he is "concerned that the changes proposed by the majority will result in our nation conducting elections only by mail and ballot harvesting being legalized nationwide."
Advertisement
Johnson added that while he is concerned about the pandemic, "now is not the time to upend this nation's election system, there's too much at risk."
"We should be discussing how to vote in person and to do it safely in light of the new circumstance," Johnson said.
President Donald Trump also opposes vote-by-mail systems.
"There is NO WAY (ZERO!) that Mail-In Ballots will be anything less than substantially fraudulent," Trump wrote in a tweet in late May. "Mail boxes will be robbed, ballots will be forged & even illegally printed out & fraudulently signed."
The Washington Post, CNN and Twitter fact-checked the president's claims and found they were unsubstantiated.
Trump's attacks against vote-by-mail have targeted mostly Democrat-run states, such as California and Michigan. However, perhaps the most high-profile case of vote-by-mail fraud in recent years was carried out by a Republican operative in North Carolina, who collected and sometimes completed absentee ballots in 2018.
In late April, Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman, a Republican, told reporters that vote-by-mail "balances out ... good security with really wide access for our voters." Washington state conducts all of its elections by mail.
"Out of the 3.2 million or so ballots that were cast in 2018 in Washington, it appears that about 140 people may have voted more than once or voted ... on behalf of a deceased family member," Wyman said in April. "Is it perfect? No. Is it rampant fraud? No."
Advertisement
Dale Ho, director of the American Civil Liberties Union's voting rights project, said at the hearing Wednesday that the coronavirus pandemic presents the biggest logistical challenge to a presidential election since the Civil War in 1864.
"States can adjust now to protect every American's right to vote safely during the pandemic," Ho said, adding that Tennessee, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi and Missouri are the only remaining states that will not let all voters vote absentee during the pandemic.
"Your elected representatives are either for our democracy or against," said House judiciary committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y. "We do not deserve that title if we deny you the right to cast your ballot in November or if we force you to choose between exercising that right and protecting your own health."


upi--2020-06-03--Ancient burial site in Belize reveals when people started eating maize

June 3 ( UPI ) -- Maize is a staple crop across much of the Americas , and new research suggests it 's been that way for at least 4,700 years .
Reconstructing the diets of early human populations in tropical regions like Central America has proven quite difficult , but scientists recently discovered a burial site in present-day Belize that has been continuously used for over 10,000 years .
Given the shallow nature of most graves and burial sites , it 's rare for human remains to end up layered sequentially -- let alone a burial site featuring well-preserved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any time period is rare in tropical environments as the high temperatures and humidity are favorable to bacteria and other decomposers , '' archaeologist Mark Robinson , a postdoctoral research fellow at Exeter University in Britain , told UPI in an email .
`` The rock shelters we excavated just happen to have the perfect set of factors to protect from the elements , creating a very dry , loose sediment , with no tree roots disturbing the interred bones . ''
To find out when humans that frequented the two rock shelters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bones from 44 human skeletons .
`` The food we consume is absorbed and builds our body 's tissues , '' Robinson said .
`` The chemical signature of that food leaves its mark in our bodies , meaning we really are what we eat . ''
Because maize photosynthesizes differently than other kinds of plants , it leaves a unique chemical signature in bones .
`` Maize , in the grass family of plants , creates a different carbon signature than the fruit , nuts , and leafy greens we consume from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The oldest remains that researchers recovered from the burial site were dated to between 9,600 and 8,600 years ago .
Humans continued to bury the dead at the rock shelters until just 1,000 years ago .
The isotopic ratios measured in the ancient bones showed humans in Central America began eating maize nearly 5,000 years ago .
Prior to the introduction of maize , humans in the region relied on herbs , fruits and nuts from local trees and shrubs , as well as with meat from hunting native land animals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ infants suggests their mothers were eating large amounts of maize by at least 4,700 years ago .
As early as 4,000 years ago , maize made up nearly 70 percent of the diets of some people in Central America .
By the time the first European explorers arrived in the Americas , corn was ubiquitous among native populations .
The new study -- published Wednesday in the journal Science Advances -- can help researchers reconstruct the growing importance of maize among native populations .
`` Decades of research has revealed the importance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beliefs , creation myths , landscape management , the economy , as well as dietary nutrition , '' Robinson said .
`` Although the impact and importance of maize has been extensively researched , how , why and when maize was domesticated and adopted by so many diverse groups is still little understood , '' he said .
`` The data from these contexts enables us for the first time to chronologically explore these questions in a single location . ''
As the new analysis revealed , what began as a supplemental food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generations .
`` Farmers would have to learn how to cultivate the crop and make the decision to increase the labor investment into its cultivation , becoming more reliant on the grain at the expense of other sources of nutrition , '' Robinson said .
`` By the later periods , whole socioeconomic systems were built around maize agriculture , with landscapes transformed to maximize cultivation , '' Robinson said .
`` These data provide the first lines of evidence for how that adoption process took place and how long it took .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ context to the archaeological remains of early Central American settlements .
The adoption of corn as a staple diet was closely intertwined with the development of farming tools and food processing technologies , as was the evolution of local economies and social and political structures .
By the time the Mayan civilization emerged some 2,000 years ago , maize was n't just a source of calories , it was a crop of tremendous importance -- culturally , economically and politically .
`` We are currently analyzing genomic data from the skeletal material , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these people were , '' Robinson said .
`` This will help us unravel the process of adoption of the technology .
Did a new population enter the area , bringing maize agriculture , or were the seeds and plants passed between communities . ''

Excavations showing the stratigraphic sequence from the late Pleistocene to the modern in one excavation unit at Saki Tzul rockshelter in the Maya mountains of Belize. Photo by Keith M. Prufer
June 3 (UPI) -- Maize is a staple crop across much of the Americas, and new research suggests it's been that way for at least 4,700 years. Reconstructing the diets of early human populations in tropical regions like Central America has proven quite difficult, but scientists recently discovered a burial site in present-day Belize that has been continuously used for over 10,000 years. Advertisement
Given the shallow nature of most graves and burial sites, it's rare for human remains to end up layered sequentially -- let alone a burial site featuring well-preserved remains.
"Finding intact burials from any time period is rare in tropical environments as the high temperatures and humidity are favorable to bacteria and other decomposers," archaeologist Mark Robinson, a postdoctoral research fellow at Exeter University in Britain, told UPI in an email. "The rock shelters we excavated just happen to have the perfect set of factors to protect from the elements, creating a very dry, loose sediment, with no tree roots disturbing the interred bones."
Advertisement
To find out when humans that frequented the two rock shelters first started eating maize, scientists analyzed bones from 44 human skeletons.
"The food we consume is absorbed and builds our body's tissues," Robinson said. "The chemical signature of that food leaves its mark in our bodies, meaning we really are what we eat."
Because maize photosynthesizes differently than other kinds of plants, it leaves a unique chemical signature in bones.
"Maize, in the grass family of plants, creates a different carbon signature than the fruit, nuts, and leafy greens we consume from trees and herbs," Robinson said.
The oldest remains that researchers recovered from the burial site were dated to between 9,600 and 8,600 years ago. Humans continued to bury the dead at the rock shelters until just 1,000 years ago. The isotopic ratios measured in the ancient bones showed humans in Central America began eating maize nearly 5,000 years ago.
Prior to the introduction of maize, humans in the region relied on herbs, fruits and nuts from local trees and shrubs, as well as with meat from hunting native land animals. Isotopic analysis of the bones of two infants suggests their mothers were eating large amounts of maize by at least 4,700 years ago.
Advertisement
As early as 4,000 years ago, maize made up nearly 70 percent of the diets of some people in Central America.
By the time the first European explorers arrived in the Americas, corn was ubiquitous among native populations. The new study -- published Wednesday in the journal Science Advances -- can help researchers reconstruct the growing importance of maize among native populations.
"Decades of research has revealed the importance of the crop for cultural identity, cosmological beliefs, creation myths, landscape management, the economy, as well as dietary nutrition," Robinson said.
"Although the impact and importance of maize has been extensively researched, how, why and when maize was domesticated and adopted by so many diverse groups is still little understood," he said. "The data from these contexts enables us for the first time to chronologically explore these questions in a single location."
As the new analysis revealed, what began as a supplemental food source slowly became more important over several generations.
"Farmers would have to learn how to cultivate the crop and make the decision to increase the labor investment into its cultivation, becoming more reliant on the grain at the expense of other sources of nutrition," Robinson said.
Advertisement
"By the later periods, whole socioeconomic systems were built around maize agriculture, with landscapes transformed to maximize cultivation," Robinson said. "These data provide the first lines of evidence for how that adoption process took place and how long it took."
The latest isotopic analysis can provide context to the archaeological remains of early Central American settlements. The adoption of corn as a staple diet was closely intertwined with the development of farming tools and food processing technologies, as was the evolution of local economies and social and political structures.
By the time the Mayan civilization emerged some 2,000 years ago, maize wasn't just a source of calories, it was a crop of tremendous importance -- culturally, economically and politically.
"We are currently analyzing genomic data from the skeletal material, which will provide new insight into who these people were," Robinson said. "This will help us unravel the process of adoption of the technology. Did a new population enter the area, bringing maize agriculture, or were the seeds and plants passed between communities."


upi--2020-06-03--Watch: Bystanders use CPR to revive baby deer found drowning in lake

June 3 ( UPI ) -- A pair of bystanders rescued a baby deer spotted drowning in a lake and @ @ @ @ @ the fawn .
Liz Ballard posted a video to Facebook showing her husband , Brian @ @ @ @ @ the young animal at Lake Tyler .
The video shows the rescuers using rescue breaths @ @ @ @ @ The rescuers take turns blowing into the deer 's nose and mouth until it starts @ @ @ @ @ its own .

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June 3 (UPI) -- A pair of bystanders rescued a baby deer spotted drowning in a lake and used CPR techniques to revive the fawn.
Liz Ballard posted a video to Facebook showing her husband, Brian, and another person rescuing the young animal at Lake Tyler.
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The video shows the rescuers using rescue breaths on the unresponsive deer.
The rescuers take turns blowing into the deer's nose and mouth until it starts to move and breathe on its own.