upi--2020-10-23--Tampa Bay Buccaneers signing Antonio Brown to 1-year deal

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Former Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots star wide receiver Antonio Brown has agreed to a short-term contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers .
League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Friday that Brown and the Buccaneers are close to finalizing a one-year deal .
According to the outlets , Brown is scheduled to arrive in Tampa on Friday night for the first day of COVID-19 testing .
Brown must pass the league 's coronavirus protocols before he can officially join the team .
According to ESPN , he is expected to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9 against the New Orleans Saints .
Buccaneers star quarterback Tom Brady has been pushing for the Bucs to sign Brown in recent months , according to NFL Media .
The Buccaneers and Brown 's representatives have quietly been working on an agreement to reunite the duo .
Brady and Brown played in one game together last year with the Patriots .
The Seattle Seahawks also were in the mix to acquire Brown before the Buccaneers reached an agreement with the Pro Bowl wideout .
The Buccaneers have dealt with multiple injuries at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mike Evans has been playing on an injured ankle since Week 4 , while Chris Godwin just returned from a hamstring ailment .
Scotty Miller has been limited due to groin and hip injuries .
Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians , who coached Brown while he was offensive coordinator of the Steelers , previously was critical of Brown .
Arians said in 2019 that Brown was `` too much of a diva , '' and noted in March that Brown was n't a fit in the Bucs ' locker room .
In July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brown for eight games because of multiple violations of the league 's personal conduct policy .
He is eligible to return from his suspension after Week 8 .

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Antonio Brown last appeared in an NFL game in September 2019. File Photo by Rhona Wise/EPA-EFE
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Former Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots star wide receiver Antonio Brown has agreed to a short-term contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Friday that Brown and the Buccaneers are close to finalizing a one-year deal. According to the outlets, Brown is scheduled to arrive in Tampa on Friday night for the first day of COVID-19 testing. Advertisement
Brown must pass the league's coronavirus protocols before he can officially join the team. According to ESPN, he is expected to make his debut with the Buccaneers in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints.
Buccaneers star quarterback Tom Brady has been pushing for the Bucs to sign Brown in recent months, according to NFL Media. The Buccaneers and Brown's representatives have quietly been working on an agreement to reunite the duo. Brady and Brown played in one game together last year with the Patriots.
The Seattle Seahawks also were in the mix to acquire Brown before the Buccaneers reached an agreement with the Pro Bowl wideout.
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The Buccaneers have dealt with multiple injuries at the wide receiver position this season. Mike Evans has been playing on an injured ankle since Week 4, while Chris Godwin just returned from a hamstring ailment. Scotty Miller has been limited due to groin and hip injuries.
Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians, who coached Brown while he was offensive coordinator of the Steelers, previously was critical of Brown. Arians said in 2019 that Brown was "too much of a diva," and noted in March that Brown wasn't a fit in the Bucs' locker room.
In July, the NFL announced it had suspended Brown for eight games because of multiple violations of the league's personal conduct policy. He is eligible to return from his suspension after Week 8.


upi--2020-10-23--Texas man accused of firing into Minneapolis police building during George Floyd protests

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Federal prosecutors have accused a self-described member of the Boogaloo Bois , an anti-government group , of firing bullets into a Minneapolis police building during protests against the police killing of George Floyd .
The U.S. Attorney 's Office in Minnesota charged Ivan Harrison Hunter , 26 , with one count of rioting .
He was arrested Wednesday in San Antonio and made his first appearance before a federal magistrate there .
Prosecutors said they reviewed a video of protests on May 28 in Minneapolis showing Hunter firing 13 rounds from an AK-47-style semi-automatic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Third Precinct building .
Hunter allegedly was one of several Boogaloo Bois who discussed traveling to Minneapolis to act as an armed militia during anti-police brutality protests and to commit `` crimes of violence . ''
Prosecutors said Hunter returned to San Antonio after the Minneapolis protest and posted on social media about his participation .
Police were tipped off to Hunter 's association with the Boogaloo Bois after a June 3 traffic stop in Austin in which officers said they observed him wearing a tactical vest containing six loaded magazines for an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the front and back seats of the vehicle .
Further investigation revealed his connection to another member , Steven Carrillo , who was charged with murder for the death of federal protective security officer David Patrick Underwood on May 29 in Oakland , Calif .

Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Federal prosecutors have accused a self-described member of the Boogaloo Bois, an anti-government group, of firing bullets into a Minneapolis police building during protests against the police killing of George Floyd.
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Minnesota charged Ivan Harrison Hunter, 26, with one count of rioting. He was arrested Wednesday in San Antonio and made his first appearance before a federal magistrate there.
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Prosecutors said they reviewed a video of protests on May 28 in Minneapolis showing Hunter firing 13 rounds from an AK-47-style semi-automatic rifle into the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct building.
Hunter allegedly was one of several Boogaloo Bois who discussed traveling to Minneapolis to act as an armed militia during anti-police brutality protests and to commit "crimes of violence."
Prosecutors said Hunter returned to San Antonio after the Minneapolis protest and posted on social media about his participation.
Police were tipped off to Hunter's association with the Boogaloo Bois after a June 3 traffic stop in Austin in which officers said they observed him wearing a tactical vest containing six loaded magazines for an AK-47-style assault rifle and found several firearms in the front and back seats of the vehicle.
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Further investigation revealed his connection to another member, Steven Carrillo, who was charged with murder for the death of federal protective security officer David Patrick Underwood on May 29 in Oakland, Calif.


upi--2020-10-23--Pennsylvania Supreme Court rejects signature matching on mail-in ballots

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Friday ruled that mail-in ballots ca n't be rejected simply because voters ' signatures do n't match those held on file .
The ruling comes less than two weeks before the state 's first general election since allowing no-excuse voting by mail .
`` County boards of elections are prohibited from rejecting absentee or mail-in-ballots based on signature comparison conducted by county election officials or employees , or as the result of third-party challenges based on signature analysis and comparisons , '' the court said in an opinion written @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of State have told elections officials not to toss ballots in which signatures do n't match , but the Trump campaign challenged the guidance and lost in federal court .
It then asked the state 's high court to rule on the issue .
The League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania and Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh , meanwhile , said that signature analysis can be inconsistent and unfair to voters .
`` We are protecting every eligible vote and ensuring each is counted , '' he wrote .
`` Make your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing our work to make sure your voice is heard . ''

Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Friday ruled that mail-in ballots can't be rejected simply because voters' signatures don't match those held on file.
The ruling comes less than two weeks before the state's first general election since allowing no-excuse voting by mail.
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"County boards of elections are prohibited from rejecting absentee or mail-in-ballots based on signature comparison conducted by county election officials or employees, or as the result of third-party challenges based on signature analysis and comparisons," the court said in an opinion written by Justice Debra Todd.
The Pennsylvania Department of State have told elections officials not to toss ballots in which signatures don't match, but the Trump campaign challenged the guidance and lost in federal court. It then asked the state's high court to rule on the issue.
The League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania and Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, meanwhile, said that signature analysis can be inconsistent and unfair to voters.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro applauded the ruling on Twitter.
"We are protecting every eligible vote and ensuring each is counted," he wrote. "Make your plan to vote and we will keep doing our work to make sure your voice is heard."


upi--2020-10-23--Marines form new F-35B Fighter Attack Squadron in Japan

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- The U.S. Marine Corps at Iwakuni , Japan , announced formation of a new attack squadron on Friday in anticipation of the arrival of F-35B fighter planes .
Marine Aircraft Group 12 re-designated Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242 , or VMFA-242 .
The change is part of the Marine Corps ' ongoing transition process from F/A-18 Hornet fighter planes to the more-advanced F-35B Lightning II .
It will be the second overseas Marine squadron , a 1st Marine Aircraft Wing statement on Friday said .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Air Station Iwakuni , was established in 2017 .
VMFA-242 was ceremonially dedicated last week , and included a change of command , as Lt. Col. Andrew Kelemen was succeeded by Lt. Col. Michael Wyrsch .
`` The F-35 represents the future of Marine Corps tactical aviation and will eventually replace the AV-8B Harrier , the F/A-18 Hornet , and the EA-6B Prowler in all units across the Marine Corps , '' 1st Marine Aircraft Wing officials said in the statement .
The Marine Corps ' variant of the plane , the F-35B @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vertical-landing capabilities that allow it to operate from aircraft carriers and flat-deck amphibious assault ships .
The Marines did not indicate when the first F-35B will be delivered to VMFA-242 .

1/2
An F-35B fighter plane arrives at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, where a new squadron, to be known as VMFA-242, was officially formed. Photo by LCpl. Joseph Abrego/U.S. Marine Corps
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Marine Corps at Iwakuni, Japan, announced formation of a new attack squadron on Friday in anticipation of the arrival of F-35B fighter planes. Marine Aircraft Group 12 re-designated Marine All Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 242, or VMFA-242. The change is part of the Marine Corps' ongoing transition process from F/A-18 Hornet fighter planes to the more-advanced F-35B Lightning II. Advertisement
It will be the second overseas Marine squadron, a 1st Marine Aircraft Wing statement on Friday said.
The first squadron, also at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, was established in 2017. VMFA-242 was ceremonially dedicated last week, and included a change of command, as Lt. Col. Andrew Kelemen was succeeded by Lt. Col. Michael Wyrsch.
"The F-35 represents the future of Marine Corps tactical aviation and will eventually replace the AV-8B Harrier, the F/A-18 Hornet, and the EA-6B Prowler in all units across the Marine Corps," 1st Marine Aircraft Wing officials said in the statement.
The Marine Corps' variant of the plane, the F-35B, has stealth technology and short-takeoff and vertical-landing capabilities that allow it to operate from aircraft carriers and flat-deck amphibious assault ships.
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The Marines did not indicate when the first F-35B will be delivered to VMFA-242.


upi--2020-10-23--The arrival of seabirds transformed the Falkland Islands 5,000 years ago

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Roughly 5,000 years ago , seabirds colonized the Falkland Islands in record numbers .
New research -- published Friday in the journal Science Advances -- suggests the seabirds arrived around the same time that the South Atlantic cooled , and their arrival shifted the ecosystems on the Falkland Islands .
Today , the remote South Atlantic islands remain a refuge for several important seabird species , including great shearwaters , black-browed albatrosses , white-chinned petrels and five species of penguins .
For a few thousand years , these burrowing and ground nesting seabirds had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the last few centuries , the birds have lost ground to sheep grazing and erosion .
In addition , sea and air temperatures in the South Atlantic have been steadily rising as a result of climate change .
To better understand how Falkland Island seabirds might cope in a warmer climate , scientists set out to study the history of climate change and ecological changes on the Falkland Islands .
By sampling peat core layers , researchers were able to reconstruct a 14,000-year record of climate and ecological shifts on the island @ @ @ @ @ @ @ migrating to the islands in large numbers around the time the South Atlantic began to cool .
`` Our 14,000-year record shows that seabirds established at Surf Bay during cooler climates , '' lead study author Dulcinea Groff said in a news release .
`` Seabird conservation efforts in the South Atlantic should be prepared for these species to move to new breeding grounds in a warmer world , and those locations may not be protected , '' said Groff , who led the research while she was a doctoral student in ecology @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maine .
The peat layers also revealed a dramatic ecological transformation following the arrival of seabirds .
Marine-derived nutrients from guano rejuvenated the island 's poor soil , allowing the establishment of tussock grasses , or bunch grasses .
Ash in the peat layers showed the proliferation of grasslands across the islands led to an increase in seasonal wildfires .
Researchers suggest their work is a reminder of the important connections between disparate ecosystems , as well as an example of how quickly ecosystems can be transformed .
`` Our study is unique @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ocean and land ecosystems between top predators of the oceans -- the seabirds -- and island plant communities , '' said Groff , now a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Wyoming .
`` The abrupt ecosystem shift happened within a matter of a few decades and suggests that as the climate continues to warm , it 's critical to think about where seabirds will go in the future and plan to protect those places . ''
It 's not just rising temperatures that conservationists are worried about , she said .
Grasslands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a couple centuries of livestock grazing .
The islands ' wildlife species depend on the health of the grasslands .
And because the island 's tussock grass depend on bird droppings , a decline in the abundance of seabirds could have broad ecological repercussions .
`` As the climate warms , seabirds may find and occupy more suitable environments elsewhere , and we should expect that the coastal grasslands will respond to the loss in nutrients from seabird guano , '' said Groff .

The Falkland Islands are home to some of the world's largest seabird populations, including the black-browed albatross, which makes its nest in the islands' tussac grasslands. Photo by Dulcinea Groff
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Roughly 5,000 years ago, seabirds colonized the Falkland Islands in record numbers. New research -- published Friday in the journal Science Advances -- suggests the seabirds arrived around the same time that the South Atlantic cooled, and their arrival shifted the ecosystems on the Falkland Islands. Today, the remote South Atlantic islands remain a refuge for several important seabird species, including great shearwaters, black-browed albatrosses, white-chinned petrels and five species of penguins. Advertisement
For a few thousand years, these burrowing and ground nesting seabirds had the islands mostly to themselves, but over the last few centuries, the birds have lost ground to sheep grazing and erosion.
In addition, sea and air temperatures in the South Atlantic have been steadily rising as a result of climate change.
To better understand how Falkland Island seabirds might cope in a warmer climate, scientists set out to study the history of climate change and ecological changes on the Falkland Islands.
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By sampling peat core layers, researchers were able to reconstruct a 14,000-year record of climate and ecological shifts on the island. The data confirmed that seabirds began migrating to the islands in large numbers around the time the South Atlantic began to cool.
"Our 14,000-year record shows that seabirds established at Surf Bay during cooler climates," lead study author Dulcinea Groff said in a news release.
"Seabird conservation efforts in the South Atlantic should be prepared for these species to move to new breeding grounds in a warmer world, and those locations may not be protected," said Groff, who led the research while she was a doctoral student in ecology and environmental sciences at the University of Maine.
The peat layers also revealed a dramatic ecological transformation following the arrival of seabirds. Marine-derived nutrients from guano rejuvenated the island's poor soil, allowing the establishment of tussock grasses, or bunch grasses. Ash in the peat layers showed the proliferation of grasslands across the islands led to an increase in seasonal wildfires.
Researchers suggest their work is a reminder of the important connections between disparate ecosystems, as well as an example of how quickly ecosystems can be transformed.
"Our study is unique because it documents a direct linkage across ocean and land ecosystems between top predators of the oceans -- the seabirds -- and island plant communities," said Groff, now a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Wyoming. "The abrupt ecosystem shift happened within a matter of a few decades and suggests that as the climate continues to warm, it's critical to think about where seabirds will go in the future and plan to protect those places."
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It's not just rising temperatures that conservationists are worried about, she said.
Grasslands on the Falkland Islands have been degraded by a couple centuries of livestock grazing. The islands' wildlife species depend on the health of the grasslands. And because the island's tussock grass depend on bird droppings, a decline in the abundance of seabirds could have broad ecological repercussions.
"As the climate warms, seabirds may find and occupy more suitable environments elsewhere, and we should expect that the coastal grasslands will respond to the loss in nutrients from seabird guano," said Groff.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: Pennsylvania family builds 'Candypult' for safe trick-or-treating

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- A Pennsylvania family unveiled their secret weapon to keep trick-or-treating safe amid the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ Candypult . ''
Vince Mak , of York County , said his family held a @ @ @ @ @ way to distribute candy on Halloween while maintaining social distancing and other safety measures .
@ @ @ @ @ try to come up with a creative way to throw candy at kids ... safely @ @ @ @ @ .
`` With everything going on , everyone just needs to feel happy and find @ @ @ @ @ '' The family came up with the `` Candypult , '' a catapult designed to @ @ @ @ @ `` I guess we 'll have to get extra candy this year , '' Mak @ @

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Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A Pennsylvania family unveiled their secret weapon to keep trick-or-treating safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic -- a treat-launching "Candypult."
Vince Mak, of York County, said his family held a brainstorming session to find a way to distribute candy on Halloween while maintaining social distancing and other safety measures.
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"We thought we could try to come up with a creative way to throw candy at kids ... safely," Mak told WPMT-TV. "With everything going on, everyone just needs to feel happy and find something to laugh at."
The family came up with the "Candypult," a catapult designed to launch candy to trick-or-treaters.
"I guess we'll have to get extra candy this year," Mak said.


upi--2020-10-23--Man's mistake while buying lottery ticket earns him $2 million

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- A Michigan man said he made a mistake while buying his lottery ticket that turned a $ 1 million jackpot into a $ 2 million payday .
Samir Mazahem , 56 , of Dearborn Heights , told Michigan Lottery officials he accidentally bought two identical tickets for the June 9 Mega Millions drawing using the lottery 's website .
`` I went online and bought a ticket using numbers that are family birthdays , '' Mazahem said .
`` I forgot to save the numbers as favorites in the app , so I went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favorites so I could easily play them in the future . ''
He said repeating the process had an unforeseen side effect .
`` What I did n't realize , is that meant I would be buying a second ticket with the same numbers .
Once I figured out I had bought two tickets with identical numbers , I was a little bummed but did n't think much about it , '' he said .
The mistake proved fortunate , however , when he matched the five white balls drawn , 01-05-09-10-23 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prize .
`` I recently logged into the app to check on some tickets I had bought , and that is when I saw I had two $ 1 million prizes pending .
Saying that I was stunned is an understatement .
I could n't believe it was real .
It took several days for the reality to set in that my mistake had paid off to the tune of $ 2 million , '' he said .
The winner said he plans to buy a new home with his winnings and put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is exciting and gives me some comfort knowing that when I retire , I will have money in the bank , '' Mazahem said .

Samir Mazahem, 56, of Dearborn Heights, Mich., accidentally bought two identical tickets for the same Mega Millions drawing and ended up winning $1 million twice. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A Michigan man said he made a mistake while buying his lottery ticket that turned a $1 million jackpot into a $2 million payday. Samir Mazahem, 56, of Dearborn Heights, told Michigan Lottery officials he accidentally bought two identical tickets for the June 9 Mega Millions drawing using the lottery's website. Advertisement
"I went online and bought a ticket using numbers that are family birthdays," Mazahem said. "I forgot to save the numbers as favorites in the app, so I went back in and set them up as favorites so I could easily play them in the future."
He said repeating the process had an unforeseen side effect.
"What I didn't realize, is that meant I would be buying a second ticket with the same numbers. Once I figured out I had bought two tickets with identical numbers, I was a little bummed but didn't think much about it," he said.
The mistake proved fortunate, however, when he matched the five white balls drawn, 01-05-09-10-23, earning each ticket a $1 million prize.
"I recently logged into the app to check on some tickets I had bought, and that is when I saw I had two $1 million prizes pending. Saying that I was stunned is an understatement. I couldn't believe it was real. It took several days for the reality to set in that my mistake had paid off to the tune of $2 million," he said.
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The winner said he plans to buy a new home with his winnings and put the rest into savings.
"Winning is exciting and gives me some comfort knowing that when I retire, I will have money in the bank," Mazahem said.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: Wildlife trapper dons disguise to capture aggressive turkey

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- An aggressive turkey that terrorized a California neighborhood for months was captured by a wildlife expert who disguised herself as an elderly woman to trick the foul fowl .
Gerald the turkey , a frequently sighted bird in Oakland who caused the city 's Morcom Rose Garden to be closed to visitors during the summer , was finally captured Thursday by Rebecca Dmytryk , director of Wildlife Emergency Services .
Dmytryk said she disguised herself as an old woman for the operation after Oakland Animal Services personnel reported that Gerald preferred to attack the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him in with blueberries , kibble and sunflower seeds , '' Dmytryk told KGO-TV .
`` Then my husband actually had to run down to the truck .
So I was left alone with the turkey . ''
Dmytryk said she baited Gerald into charging at her , giving her an opening to grab him by the scruff of his neck in a way that did not harm the bird .
Gerald was relocated to a wild area in the East Bay hills , Dmytryk said .
`` After being at this for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other side and to know the turkey is now in a wild area , situated with other turkeys where he will be safe , it feels like the best possible outcome , '' said Anne Dunn , director of Oakland Animal Services .

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Oct. 23 (UPI) -- An aggressive turkey that terrorized a California neighborhood for months was captured by a wildlife expert who disguised herself as an elderly woman to trick the foul fowl.
Gerald the turkey, a frequently sighted bird in Oakland who caused the city's Morcom Rose Garden to be closed to visitors during the summer, was finally captured Thursday by Rebecca Dmytryk, director of Wildlife Emergency Services.
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Dmytryk said she disguised herself as an old woman for the operation after Oakland Animal Services personnel reported that Gerald preferred to attack the frail and elderly.
"I baited him in with blueberries, kibble and sunflower seeds," Dmytryk told KGO-TV. "Then my husband actually had to run down to the truck. So I was left alone with the turkey."
Dmytryk said she baited Gerald into charging at her, giving her an opening to grab him by the scruff of his neck in a way that did not harm the bird.
Gerald was relocated to a wild area in the East Bay hills, Dmytryk said.
"After being at this for five months ... to be on the other side and to know the turkey is now in a wild area, situated with other turkeys where he will be safe, it feels like the best possible outcome," said Anne Dunn, director of Oakland Animal Services.


upi--2020-10-23--China issues retaliation threat over $1.4B sales of U.S. arms to Taiwan

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- A spokesman of the Chinese defense ministry suggested that China will retaliate if $ 1.4 billion U.S. arms sales to Taiwan go through .
`` The move seriously damages relations between the two countries and the two militaries , as well as the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait .
China firmly opposes it , '' said spokesperson Col. Tan Kefei of China 's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday .
`` China strongly urges the U.S. side to immediately cancel the plans of selling weapons to Taiwan and cease military contact with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Taiwan prudently , so as to avoid serious consequences to Sino-American bilateral and mil-to-mil relations , as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait , '' he added .
The statement from the ministry noted that , according to Tan , `` if the U.S. side discards the basic norms of international relations , violates its commitment and acts capriciously and obstinately , China will for sure resolutely strike back . ''
The U.S. State Department approved two arms deals with Taiwan on Thursday , totaling $ 1.4 billion .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 1 billion , involves the sale of 135 SLAM-ER missiles made by Boeing Co .
The total package includes the sale of Himars mobile artillery rocket systems made by Lockheed Martin Corp. , and $ 367 million in aircraft-mounted surveillance and reconnaissance sensors from Raytheon Technologies Corp .

China promised retaliation if an arms sale deal, potentially worth $1.8 billion and including SLAM-ER missiles, pictured, between Taiwan and the United States is completed. Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A spokesman of the Chinese defense ministry suggested that China will retaliate if $1.4 billion U.S. arms sales to Taiwan go through. "The move seriously damages relations between the two countries and the two militaries, as well as the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China firmly opposes it," said spokesperson Col. Tan Kefei of China's Ministry of National Defense on Thursday. Advertisement
"China strongly urges the U.S. side to immediately cancel the plans of selling weapons to Taiwan and cease military contact with the island and handle issues related to Taiwan prudently, so as to avoid serious consequences to Sino-American bilateral and mil-to-mil relations, as well as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," he added.
The statement from the ministry noted that, according to Tan, "if the U.S. side discards the basic norms of international relations, violates its commitment and acts capriciously and obstinately, China will for sure resolutely strike back."
The U.S. State Department approved two arms deals with Taiwan on Thursday, totaling $1.4 billion.
The larger of the two, estimated at $1 billion, involves the sale of 135 SLAM-ER missiles made by Boeing Co. The total package includes the sale of Himars mobile artillery rocket systems made by Lockheed Martin Corp., and $367 million in aircraft-mounted surveillance and reconnaissance sensors from Raytheon Technologies Corp.


upi--2020-10-23--In photos: Sotheby's marquee art sale preview

Sotheby 's gives a media preview of its upcoming sale of impressionist , modern and contemporary art in New York @ @ @ @ @ works by Andy Warhol and Vincent van Gogh , among others .
The sales , @ @ @ @ @ , are scheduled for October 28 , 2020 .
UPI photographer John Angelillo captured images @ @ @ @

Alfa Romeo BAT 5, BAT 7 AND BAT 9 concept cars are on display at a press preview for Sotheby's marquee New York Evening Sales of Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary Art autcion in New York City on October 23. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI


upi--2020-10-23--Saad Hariri’s return as Lebanese prime minister raises hope, skepticism

BEIRUT , Lebanon , Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- The return of veteran politician Saad Hariri as Lebanon 's prime minister was met with mixed reactions as the country plunges deeper into economic crisis and despair grows among an exhausted population .
Hariri resigned from the same post almost a year ago when protests broke out to denounce widespread corruption and demand the ouster of all political leaders .
After his nomination to return on Thursday , Hariri pledged to quickly form a government of non-partisan specialists that would implement economic and financial reforms in line with those proposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be to stop the country 's collapse and rebuild what was destroyed by the massive Aug. 4 explosion at the Beirut port .
Several developments may have helped pave the way for Hariri 's comeback : the port explosion ; the failure of the outgoing Hezbollah-backed cabinet of Hassan Diab to halt the economic deterioration ; U.S. sanctions targeting Hezbollah 's allies ; fresh talks between Lebanon and Israel to settle their maritime border dispute ; and U.S.-Iran de-escalation in the region ahead of the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cards with some kind of a Sunni-Shiite accord [ inside Lebanon ] but also a new momentum in the area , '' a highly placed official source , who spoke on the condition of anonymity , told UPI .
`` It will be very difficult for anybody to obstruct the French initiative that the European Union is supporting and the U.S. now going along with . ''
French President Emmanuel Macron , who visited Beirut twice after the port explosion , has been pressuring Lebanese political leaders to swiftly implement reforms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that includes a timeline of action to form a new government , resume talks with the International Monetary Fund , reform the power sector , appoint members of a national anti-corruption authority and improve border controls at ports , the airport and border crossings .
To Macron 's frustration , little has been done .
But some experts say the situation is ripe for change .
`` The mood has changed .
There is more than one thing at play , '' the source said , adding that Hariri was entrusted to implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United States , and Iran has `` shown some flexibility . ''
Hariri , a Sunni , and the Shiite Amal-Hezbollah parties have agreed to keep Lebanon from plunging into sectarian clashes that would destroy the country , as has happened in Syria and Iraq .
U.S.-brokered maritime border talks with Israel , which started Oct. 14 , were `` another indication of change , '' Michel Nawfal , an expert on Middle East affairs and former editor in-chief of the Institute for Palestinian Studies , told UPI .
`` Such negotiations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and accelerating the demarcation of the maritime frontier has to do with the big battle over gas in the Mediterranean . ''
Away from the complex regional interests , Hariri 's return to the premiership came to the dismay of the anti-establishment protesters who have been trying to get rid of the corrupt leaders and impose a government of independent specialists who would save the country from collapse .
`` The fundamentals did not change , the balance of power has not changed and I ca n't see a breakthrough , '' Sami @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs in Beirut , told UPI .
`` This is an exit strategy for the French while the U.S. is busy with its presidential elections . ''
Nader saw Hariri 's appointment as an attempt by the ruling parties `` to keep the system in place and ultimately saving it from collapse . ''
It was also meant to foil any possible serious opposition that would challenge Hezbollah 's control of the country with Hariri at the head of the new government and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt supporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director of the La Maison du Futur research institute .
`` This is all to boost Hezbollah 's authority in Lebanon ...
It serves Hezbollah 's interests and saves the ruling political class , '' Menassa told UPI .
`` They are seeking a minimum that would prevent the disintegration of the country ... some minimal assistance that would ease up the deteriorating conditions , but this will not solve the problem . ''
To unlock international aid , Hariri 's cabinet will have to pass a budget that includes cuts in public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other painful and unpopular measures at a time the Central Bank can no longer continue to subsidize essential necessities .
In just one year , the Lebanese pound lost 80 percent of its value against the U.S. dollar ; inflation , poverty and unemployment rates have reached record levels ; businesses are closing ; the COVID-19 pandemic has hit hard tourism and the health and education sectors .
The port explosion added to the misery , with more than 300,000 people displaced , their homes destroyed .
The political leaders only `` came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance , '' said Nader .
`` The situation will not calm down ...
There will be more deterioration . ''
`` After six or seven months , we will be in a worse situation , '' he said .

Saad Hariri has been appointed to return as prime minister of Lebanon amid an economic and political crisis. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
BEIRUT, Lebanon, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The return of veteran politician Saad Hariri as Lebanon's prime minister was met with mixed reactions as the country plunges deeper into economic crisis and despair grows among an exhausted population. Hariri resigned from the same post almost a year ago when protests broke out to denounce widespread corruption and demand the ouster of all political leaders. After his nomination to return on Thursday, Hariri pledged to quickly form a government of non-partisan specialists that would implement economic and financial reforms in line with those proposed by France. Advertisement
He said his focus will be to stop the country's collapse and rebuild what was destroyed by the massive Aug. 4 explosion at the Beirut port.
Critics argue Hariri's appointment protects Hezbollah's authority and foils serious opposition.
Several developments may have helped pave the way for Hariri's comeback: the port explosion; the failure of the outgoing Hezbollah-backed cabinet of Hassan Diab to halt the economic deterioration; U.S. sanctions targeting Hezbollah's allies; fresh talks between Lebanon and Israel to settle their maritime border dispute; and U.S.-Iran de-escalation in the region ahead of the Nov. 3 U.S. presidential election.
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"What's happening is not just reshuffling the cards with some kind of a Sunni-Shiite accord [inside Lebanon] but also a new momentum in the area," a highly placed official source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told UPI. "It will be very difficult for anybody to obstruct the French initiative that the European Union is supporting and the U.S. now going along with."
French President Emmanuel Macron, who visited Beirut twice after the port explosion, has been pressuring Lebanese political leaders to swiftly implement reforms. He has drafted a roadmap for them that includes a timeline of action to form a new government, resume talks with the International Monetary Fund, reform the power sector, appoint members of a national anti-corruption authority and improve border controls at ports, the airport and border crossings.
To Macron's frustration, little has been done. But some experts say the situation is ripe for change.
"The mood has changed. There is more than one thing at play," the source said, adding that Hariri was entrusted to implement the French initiative, with support from the United States, and Iran has "shown some flexibility."
Hariri, a Sunni, and the Shiite Amal-Hezbollah parties have agreed to keep Lebanon from plunging into sectarian clashes that would destroy the country, as has happened in Syria and Iraq.
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U.S.-brokered maritime border talks with Israel, which started Oct. 14, were "another indication of change," Michel Nawfal, an expert on Middle East affairs and former editor in-chief of the Institute for Palestinian Studies, told UPI. "Such negotiations need a capable government in place, and accelerating the demarcation of the maritime frontier has to do with the big battle over gas in the Mediterranean."
Away from the complex regional interests, Hariri's return to the premiership came to the dismay of the anti-establishment protesters who have been trying to get rid of the corrupt leaders and impose a government of independent specialists who would save the country from collapse.
"The fundamentals did not change, the balance of power has not changed and I can't see a breakthrough," Sami Nader, an economist and director of the Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs in Beirut, told UPI. "This is an exit strategy for the French while the U.S. is busy with its presidential elections."
Nader saw Hariri's appointment as an attempt by the ruling parties "to keep the system in place and ultimately saving it from collapse."
It was also meant to foil any possible serious opposition that would challenge Hezbollah's control of the country with Hariri at the head of the new government and Druze leader Walid Jumblatt supporting it, said Sam Menassa, executive director of the La Maison du Futur research institute.
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"This is all to boost Hezbollah's authority in Lebanon...It serves Hezbollah's interests and saves the ruling political class," Menassa told UPI. "They are seeking a minimum that would prevent the disintegration of the country...some minimal assistance that would ease up the deteriorating conditions, but this will not solve the problem."
To unlock international aid, Hariri's cabinet will have to pass a budget that includes cuts in public spending, reforming the electricity sector and other painful and unpopular measures at a time the Central Bank can no longer continue to subsidize essential necessities.
In just one year, the Lebanese pound lost 80 percent of its value against the U.S. dollar; inflation, poverty and unemployment rates have reached record levels; businesses are closing; the COVID-19 pandemic has hit hard tourism and the health and education sectors.
The port explosion added to the misery, with more than 300,000 people displaced, their homes destroyed.
The political leaders only "came together to force the release of some assistance," said Nader. "The situation will not calm down...There will be more deterioration."
Menassa compared Hariri's return to "a dose of morphine."
"After six or seven months, we will be in a worse situation," he said.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: Blue catfish breaks Georgia state record at 110 pounds, 6 ounces

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- A Florida fisherman set a new state record in Georgia when he reeled in @ @ @ @ @ the scales at 100 pounds , 6 ounces .
Tim Trone of Havana said he @ @ @ @ @ when he decided to join a fishing tournament on the Chattahoochee River .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ and all I thought was , 'Man , I got my 50-pound fish . '
@ @ @ @ @ pounder .
I 've been wanting to break 50 pounds .
It was surreal to @ @ @ @ @ fish , '' Trone told WRBL-TV .
Trone said he knew he had far exceeded @ @ @ @ @ to weigh his catch on a 100-pound scale .
`` We pulled it up and @ @ @ @ @ I knew right then , like I 've got the Georgia record , '' he @ @ @ @ @ , which measured 58 inches long and 42 inches in girth , was officially weighed @ @ @ @ @ ounces , enough to clinch the record .

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Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A Florida fisherman set a new state record in Georgia when he reeled in a blue catfish that tipped the scales at 100 pounds, 6 ounces.
Tim Trone of Havana said he was visiting friends in Georgia when he decided to join a fishing tournament on the Chattahoochee River.
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"The tail comes out the water and all I thought was, 'Man, I got my 50-pound fish.' I've got the 50 pounder. I've been wanting to break 50 pounds. It was surreal to think I got my 50-pound fish," Trone told WRBL-TV.
Trone said he knew he had far exceeded his expectations when he attempted to weigh his catch on a 100-pound scale.
"We pulled it up and the bottom scaled out and I knew right then, like I've got the Georgia record," he recalled.
Trone's fish, which measured 58 inches long and 42 inches in girth, was officially weighed at 110 pounds, 6 ounces, enough to clinch the record.


upi--2020-10-23--Poverty affects children's health as early as age 5, especially Black kids

Kids growing up in poverty show the effects of being poor as early as age 5 -- especially those who are Black , a new study suggests .
The research adds to mounting evidence that children of Black parents who are also poor face greater health inequities than Whites .
`` Our findings underscore the pronounced racialized disparities for young children , '' said lead author Dr. Neal Halfon , director of the Center for Healthier Children , Families and Communities at the University of California , Los Angeles .
For the study , teachers administered a standardized test to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ language development of kindergarteners in 98 school districts across the United States .
More than 185,000 kids took the test from 2010 to 2017 .
Analyzing the data , the researchers found that 30 % of the poorest children were vulnerable in one or more areas of health development , compared with 17 % of children from wealthier areas .
These differences in vulnerability varied among from different ethnic and racial groups .
Black children were at the highest risk , followed by Hispanic children .
Asian children were at the lowest risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ White children was most striking at the higher socioeconomic levels and tended to narrow for kids from lower-income areas .
The disparities can have a profound effect on kids ' long-term development and lead to higher rates of diabetes , heart disease , drug use , mental health disorders and dementia , the researchers said .
`` Many other studies have highlighted patterns of income and racial inequality in health and educational outcomes .
What this study shows is that these patterns of inequality are clearly evident and measurable before kids start school @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news release .
The findings were published this month in the journal Health Affairs .
For more on child development , see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

New research shows poverty can negatively affect children's health as early as age 5, but that the effects are worse for Black children. Photo by Cheryl Holt/Pixabay
Kids growing up in poverty show the effects of being poor as early as age 5 -- especially those who are Black, a new study suggests. The research adds to mounting evidence that children of Black parents who are also poor face greater health inequities than Whites. Advertisement
"Our findings underscore the pronounced racialized disparities for young children," said lead author Dr. Neal Halfon, director of the Center for Healthier Children, Families and Communities at the University of California, Los Angeles.
For the study, teachers administered a standardized test to measure physical, social, emotional and language development of kindergarteners in 98 school districts across the United States. More than 185,000 kids took the test from 2010 to 2017.
Analyzing the data, the researchers found that 30% of the poorest children were vulnerable in one or more areas of health development, compared with 17% of children from wealthier areas.
These differences in vulnerability varied among from different ethnic and racial groups. Black children were at the highest risk, followed by Hispanic children. Asian children were at the lowest risk.
The difference between Black children and White children was most striking at the higher socioeconomic levels and tended to narrow for kids from lower-income areas.
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The disparities can have a profound effect on kids' long-term development and lead to higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, drug use, mental health disorders and dementia, the researchers said.
"Many other studies have highlighted patterns of income and racial inequality in health and educational outcomes. What this study shows is that these patterns of inequality are clearly evident and measurable before kids start school," Halfon said in a university news release.
The findings were published this month in the journal Health Affairs.
More information
For more on child development, see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-10-23--Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirms successful test of S-400 defense system

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed the test-firing of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system , adding that U.S. objections did not concern him .
The truck-mounted S-400 system was tested in Turkey 's Sinop province on the Black Sea , where it was delivered earlier this month with British-made Banshee drones for use as targets .
`` It is true that tests have been carried out , '' Erdogan said in televised remarks from Istanbul , Bloomberg News reported .
`` What are we supposed to do , not test these capabilities ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. [ for approval ] .
The successful test-firing last week by Turkey of the system , which potentially could gather intelligence on U.S.-made F-35 fighter planes , drew significant objection from Washington .
Several members of Congress called for economic sanctions on Turkey , and a State Department statement said the test was `` incompatible with Turkey 's responsibilities as a NATO ally and strategic partner of the U.S. '' '' It seems that the gentlemen [ in Washington ] are especially bothered that this is a weapon belonging to Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to RT .
`` The U.S. stance absolutely does not concern us .
If we are not going to test these capabilities at our disposal , then what are we going to do ? ''
Turkey received its first S-400s from Russia in 2019 , and intends to make them fully operational by 2020 .
On Thursday , Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said the S-400 will serve as a standalone system , not integrated into NATO 's command-and-control infrastructure .
Akar said that the deployment will be similar to `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within NATO , '' a likely reference to NATO member Greece , which has the S-300 system .
Ergodan reinforced the position in the interview on Friday , noting that `` Greece has S-300s in its hand .
Let alone testing them , it is using them .
Does [ the ] U.S. say anything to them ?
No . ''

1/2
President of Turkey Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, pictured speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City in 2018, on Friday confirmed that his country has tested its S-400 air defense system acquired last year from Russia. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed the test-firing of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, adding that U.S. objections did not concern him. The truck-mounted S-400 system was tested in Turkey's Sinop province on the Black Sea, where it was delivered earlier this month with British-made Banshee drones for use as targets. Advertisement
"It is true that tests have been carried out," Erdogan said in televised remarks from Istanbul, Bloomberg News reported. "What are we supposed to do, not test these capabilities? Obviously we're not going to ask the U.S. [for approval].
The successful test-firing last week by Turkey of the system, which potentially could gather intelligence on U.S.-made F-35 fighter planes, drew significant objection from Washington.
Several members of Congress called for economic sanctions on Turkey, and a State Department statement said the test was "incompatible with Turkey's responsibilities as a NATO ally and strategic partner of the U.S."
"It seems that the gentlemen [in Washington] are especially bothered that this is a weapon belonging to Russia," Erdogan said in the remarks, according to RT. "The U.S. stance absolutely does not concern us. If we are not going to test these capabilities at our disposal, then what are we going to do?"
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Turkey received its first S-400s from Russia in 2019, and intends to make them fully operational by 2020.
On Thursday, Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar said the S-400 will serve as a standalone system, not integrated into NATO's command-and-control infrastructure.
Akar said that the deployment will be similar to "use of Russian-made S-300 weapons that exist within NATO," a likely reference to NATO member Greece, which has the S-300 system.
Ergodan reinforced the position in the interview on Friday, noting that "Greece has S-300s in its hand. Let alone testing them, it is using them. Does [the] U.S. say anything to them? No."


upi--2020-10-23--Sudan, Israel agree to normalize ties in U.S.-brokered deal

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Israel and Sudan have agreed to normalize relations , the third such U.S.-brokered agreement in the Middle East in recent weeks , the Trump administration announced Friday .
President Donald Trump announced the deal during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok he hosted in the presence of reporters in the Oval Office .
`` This is an incredible deal for Israel and Sudan , '' Trump said during the call .
`` For decades Sudan has been at a state of war with Israel -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war and boycotted Israeli goods .
There was no relationship whatsoever .
`` Today 's peace agreement will enhance your security and end Sudan 's long isolation from the world .
`` It 's peace in the Middle East without bloodshed , '' Trump added .
It 's the third peace agreement between an Arab state and Israel in recent weeks .
The White House brokered similar deals with Israel , and Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates .
`` This truly changes the region , '' Netanyahu said .
`` It changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better and allows us to focus on the task of building our nations . ''
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the deal was contingent on an agreement Sudan made to settle with the victims of terror attacks , including ones on the U.S. embassies in Tanzania and Kenya .
`` Today , in fulfillment of that agreement , the transitional government of Sudan transferred $ 335 million into an escrow account for these victims and their families , '' she said .

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks on a conference call with leaders of Israel and Sudan and to members of the media about a Sudan-Israel peace agreement Friday. Photo by Leigh Vogel/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Israel and Sudan have agreed to normalize relations, the third such U.S.-brokered agreement in the Middle East in recent weeks, the Trump administration announced Friday. President Donald Trump announced the deal during a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok he hosted in the presence of reporters in the Oval Office. Advertisement
"This is an incredible deal for Israel and Sudan," Trump said during the call. "For decades Sudan has been at a state of war with Israel -- they have been in a state of war and boycotted Israeli goods. There was no relationship whatsoever.
"Today's peace agreement will enhance your security and end Sudan's long isolation from the world.
"It's peace in the Middle East without bloodshed," Trump added.
It's the third peace agreement between an Arab state and Israel in recent weeks. The White House brokered similar deals with Israel, and Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.
"This truly changes the region," Netanyahu said. "It changes the lives of our peoples for the better and allows us to focus on the task of building our nations."
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White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the deal was contingent on an agreement Sudan made to settle with the victims of terror attacks, including ones on the U.S. embassies in Tanzania and Kenya.
"Today, in fulfillment of that agreement, the transitional government of Sudan transferred $335 million into an escrow account for these victims and their families," she said.


upi--2020-10-23--B-1B Lancer bombers arrive in Guam for exercises

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Four B-1B bombers left Texas this week , arriving in Guam for Bomber Task Force training missions with allied partners , the U.S. Air Force announced .
The B-1B Lancers and about 200 airmen of the Air Force 's 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron left Dyess Air Force Base , Texas , and arrived at Andersen Air Force Base , Guam , on Tuesday .
On the way , the bombers integrated with 16 F-15 and two F-2 planes of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force for training over the Sea of Japan , the Air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They also conducted a training exercise with the amphibious assault ship USS America in the western Pacific Ocean .
`` Every bomber task force is important because they accomplish both tactical and strategic objectives , '' said Lt. Col. Ryan Stallsworth , commander of the 9th EBS , a unit of the Global Strike Command .
`` As we conduct training operations , we are able to increase our bomber force lethality , readiness and experience across the force .
It also demonstrates the department of defense 's ability to operate in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The visit to Guam comes after the Air Force adjusted its force employment model , enabling strategic bombers like to B-1B to be forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific region from a broader array of worldwide locations .
The plan serves the National Defense Strategy 's objectives of strategic predictability and operational unpredictability , the Air Force said on Thursday .
`` Every one of these operations is an opportunity for us to gain critical experience and become efficient in the deployment and execution processes , '' Stallsworth said .
`` The U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of operating out of different strategic locations .
Our dynamic force employment construct helps us focus on being operationally unpredictable while still being strategically predictable . ''

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer conducted training exercises with two Japan Air Self Defense Force F-15 fighters on October 20, 2020. Photo courtesy of U.S. Air Force
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Four B-1B bombers left Texas this week, arriving in Guam for Bomber Task Force training missions with allied partners, the U.S. Air Force announced. The B-1B Lancers and about 200 airmen of the Air Force's 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron left Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, and arrived at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, on Tuesday. Advertisement
On the way, the bombers integrated with 16 F-15 and two F-2 planes of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force for training over the Sea of Japan, the Air Force said on Thursday in a statement.
They also conducted a training exercise with the amphibious assault ship USS America in the western Pacific Ocean.
"Every bomber task force is important because they accomplish both tactical and strategic objectives," said Lt. Col. Ryan Stallsworth, commander of the 9th EBS, a unit of the Global Strike Command. "As we conduct training operations, we are able to increase our bomber force lethality, readiness and experience across the force. It also demonstrates the department of defense's ability to operate in an agile fashion to the world."
The visit to Guam comes after the Air Force adjusted its force employment model, enabling strategic bombers like to B-1B to be forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific region from a broader array of worldwide locations.
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The plan serves the National Defense Strategy's objectives of strategic predictability and operational unpredictability, the Air Force said on Thursday.
"Every one of these operations is an opportunity for us to gain critical experience and become efficient in the deployment and execution processes," Stallsworth said. "The U.S. Air Force is willing to and capable of operating out of different strategic locations. Our dynamic force employment construct helps us focus on being operationally unpredictable while still being strategically predictable."


upi--2020-10-23--Fewer than 4% of people in Wuhan have COVID-19 antibodies, study finds

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Fewer than 4 % of adults in Wuhan , China , tested positive for antibodies against COVID-19 , putting the possibility of countries developing `` herd immunity '' against the virus without a vaccine in doubt , according to an analysis published Friday by JAMA Network Open .
The findings also suggest that those who experience mild disease or who have no outward symptoms of the virus may not develop long-lasting immunity to it naturally , the researchers said .
The term herd immunity refers to a scenario in which most of a population @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these people effectively provide indirect protection to those who are not , according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University .
One member of President Donald Trump 's White House Coronavirus Task Force , Dr. Scott Atlas , has suggested the country open back up and look to achieve herd immunity , though he did so before joining the task force in August .
`` Even if all of these people had the perfect antibodies that conferred immunity to this virus for some unknown amount of time , the prevalence found in this study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level of herd immunity , '' Henry Raymond , an associate professor of biostatistics and epidemiology at Rutgers University , told UPI .
The idea of herd immunity to COVID-19 occurring naturally in the absence of a vaccine is `` wishful thinking at this point , '' said Raymond , who was not part of the Wuhan study .
Although some studies have suggested that people infected with COVID-19 develop antibodies -- proteins produced by the immune system that help fight off disease -- against it that last several months , there have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone who has recovered gets sick again with a different strain of the virus .
As a result , questions remain about whether it 's possible for those who have the virus to develop an immune response against it naturally .
Two main types of COVID-19 antibodies , immunoglobulin M and G , are found in the blood of those who have had the disease , scientists have said .
For this study , researchers at Tongji Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan tested 35,040 adults for COVID-19 antibodies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ None of the study participants tested positive for the antibody immunoglobulin M alone , while 3.2 % had evidence of immunoglobulin G , the researchers said .
Fewer than 1 % had both antibodies in their blood , the data showed .
Although 3.9 % of all respondents had one or both antibodies , the prevalence of antibodies was higher , at 4.4 % , among those who live in urban areas compared with those who live in suburban or rural regions , at 2.9 % , the research showed .
More women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the virus than men , at 3.3 % , the researchers said .
The prevalence of antibodies found in this study suggests that more people actually may be infected with COVID-19 than what is reported in the case figures , which document those who test positive for the virus after experiencing symptoms , Raymond said .
During the height of the outbreak in Wuhan -- where COVID-19 originated , and a city of 11 million -- had about 80,000 confirmed cases of the virus , according to reports from China .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had antibodies to the virus in March , April and May , when the outbreak there had begun to slow down , `` that 's substantial , '' Raymond said .
He noted , however , that as an epidemiologist , he is hesitant to generalize findings from 35,000 people to apply to an entire population .
`` What this study shows us is that we need to continue testing people in large numbers -- both those with symptoms and without -- so we can identify all people with active virus , because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may be shedding virus , '' meaning they 're still contagious , he said .

A new study suggests less than 4% of the population may have antibodies against COVID-19. CDC/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Fewer than 4% of adults in Wuhan, China, tested positive for antibodies against COVID-19, putting the possibility of countries developing "herd immunity" against the virus without a vaccine in doubt, according to an analysis published Friday by JAMA Network Open. The findings also suggest that those who experience mild disease or who have no outward symptoms of the virus may not develop long-lasting immunity to it naturally, the researchers said. Advertisement
The term herd immunity refers to a scenario in which most of a population has become immune to a virus and these people effectively provide indirect protection to those who are not, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University.
One member of President Donald Trump's White House Coronavirus Task Force, Dr. Scott Atlas, has suggested the country open back up and look to achieve herd immunity, though he did so before joining the task force in August.
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"Even if all of these people had the perfect antibodies that conferred immunity to this virus for some unknown amount of time, the prevalence found in this study and others is never rising to the level of herd immunity," Henry Raymond, an associate professor of biostatistics and epidemiology at Rutgers University, told UPI.
The idea of herd immunity to COVID-19 occurring naturally in the absence of a vaccine is "wishful thinking at this point," said Raymond, who was not part of the Wuhan study.
Although some studies have suggested that people infected with COVID-19 develop antibodies -- proteins produced by the immune system that help fight off disease -- against it that last several months, there have also been cases of reinfection, where someone who has recovered gets sick again with a different strain of the virus.
As a result, questions remain about whether it's possible for those who have the virus to develop an immune response against it naturally.
Two main types of COVID-19 antibodies, immunoglobulin M and G, are found in the blood of those who have had the disease, scientists have said.
For this study, researchers at Tongji Hospital of Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan tested 35,040 adults for COVID-19 antibodies between March 26 and May 24.
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None of the study participants tested positive for the antibody immunoglobulin M alone, while 3.2% had evidence of immunoglobulin G, the researchers said.
Fewer than 1% had both antibodies in their blood, the data showed.
Although 3.9% of all respondents had one or both antibodies, the prevalence of antibodies was higher, at 4.4%, among those who live in urban areas compared with those who live in suburban or rural regions, at 2.9%, the research showed.
More women, at 4.4%, had antibodies against the virus than men, at 3.3%, the researchers said.
The prevalence of antibodies found in this study suggests that more people actually may be infected with COVID-19 than what is reported in the case figures, which document those who test positive for the virus after experiencing symptoms, Raymond said.
During the height of the outbreak in Wuhan -- where COVID-19 originated, and a city of 11 million -- had about 80,000 confirmed cases of the virus, according to reports from China.
If 4% of the city's population had antibodies to the virus in March, April and May, when the outbreak there had begun to slow down, "that's substantial," Raymond said.
He noted, however, that as an epidemiologist, he is hesitant to generalize findings from 35,000 people to apply to an entire population.
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"What this study shows us is that we need to continue testing people in large numbers -- both those with symptoms and without -- so we can identify all people with active virus, because even people who don't have symptoms may be shedding virus," meaning they're still contagious, he said.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: German man sets world record with 516 body modifications

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- A German man set a Guinness World Record for most body modifications -- and @ @ @ @ @ finished altering his body .
Rolf Buchholz said his enthusiasm for body modification did n't @ @ @ @ @ first tattoo at age 40 , but he soon became addicted and now has 516 @ @ @ @ @ , piercings and subdermal implants .
Buchholz previously set the world record for most piercings @ @ @ @ @ at 453 -- including 158 around his lips alone .
Buchholz said he has added @ @ @ @ @ were officially counted at 516 , and he is still considering further modifications .

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Oct. 23 (UPI) -- A German man set a Guinness World Record for most body modifications -- and he says he isn't finished altering his body.
Rolf Buchholz said his enthusiasm for body modification didn't awaken until he got his first tattoo at age 40, but he soon became addicted and now has 516 body modifications, including tattoos, piercings and subdermal implants.
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Buchholz previously set the world record for most piercings when they were officially counted at 453 -- including 158 around his lips alone.
Buchholz said he has added more body modifications since they were officially counted at 516, and he is still considering further modifications.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: Deer crashes through window into accounting office

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- An Ohio accounting firm owner received a scare in his office when a deer crashed through a double pane window while he was working .
Andy Majkut said he was working in his office in Lorain County when the deer came barreling in through the shattered window .
`` Hit my desk , hit the back of my chair , kind of walked around my desk , fun , and all I 'm thinking is , 'what are we going to do with him . '
He and I shared glances and then he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Majkut told WJW-TV .
Majkut said the deer took a running start and crashed back out of his office through another window .
`` You have no idea how glad I was to see him go .
At that point , you know it was like ' I 'm glad he 's gone , now we have to deal with the mess , ' '' he said .
Experts said it is currently rutting season for deer and the buck may have confused its own reflection in the office window for a romantic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealing with a similar mess this week when a deer crashed through the window of JB 's Barber Shop in Downingtown .
Owner Jennifer Brady arrived for work to find a deer had crashed into the shop through a front window and remained inside for about four hours .

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Oct. 23 (UPI) -- An Ohio accounting firm owner received a scare in his office when a deer crashed through a double pane window while he was working.
Andy Majkut said he was working in his office in Lorain County when the deer came barreling in through the shattered window.
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"Hit my desk, hit the back of my chair, kind of walked around my desk, fun, and all I'm thinking is, 'what are we going to do with him.' He and I shared glances and then he looked for an escape route," Majkut told WJW-TV.
Majkut said the deer took a running start and crashed back out of his office through another window.
"You have no idea how glad I was to see him go. At that point, you know it was like 'I'm glad he's gone, now we have to deal with the mess,'" he said.
Experts said it is currently rutting season for deer and the buck may have confused its own reflection in the office window for a romantic rival.
A Pennsylvania salon owner was dealing with a similar mess this week when a deer crashed through the window of JB's Barber Shop in Downingtown. Owner Jennifer Brady arrived for work to find a deer had crashed into the shop through a front window and remained inside for about four hours.


upi--2020-10-23--Look: 'Jurassic World: Dominion' back in production, original stars take selfie

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- Universal 's Jurassic World : Dominion has re-entered production with original franchise stars Jeff @ @ @ @ @ Sam Neil taking a selfie together .
`` Back , '' director Colin Trevorrow said @ @ @ @ @ black-and-white selfie .
Goldblum , Dern and Neil took the photo while standing in front @ @ @ @ @ late actor Richard Attenborough , who portrayed John Hammond in 1993 's Jurassic Park which @ @ @ @ @ `` The Jurassic World cast and crew are back to work , with the spirit @ @ @ @ @ them while they create together , '' studio Amblin said on Twitter in reference to @ @ @ @ @ : Dominion is the third entry in the Jurassic World trilogy starring Chris Pratt and @ @ @ @ @ be joined by Goldblum , Dern and Neil for the first time .
The sequel @ @ @ @ @ 11 , 2021 after it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic .

The JURASSIC WORLD cast and crew are back to work, with the spirit of a legend watching over them while they create together.@JurassicWorld #JurassicPark #RichardAttenborough #JohnHammond https://t.co/UPoVdVHQCG— Amblin (@amblin) October 23, 2020
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- Universal's Jurassic World: Dominion has re-entered production with original franchise stars Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern and Sam Neil taking a selfie together.
"Back," director Colin Trevorrow said on Twitter Friday alongside the black-and-white selfie.
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Goldblum, Dern and Neil took the photo while standing in front of a studio named after late actor Richard Attenborough, who portrayed John Hammond in 1993's Jurassic Park which kicked off the series.
"The Jurassic World cast and crew are back to work, with the spirit of a legend watching over them while they create together," studio Amblin said on Twitter in reference to the selfie.
Jurassic World: Dominion is the third entry in the Jurassic World trilogy starring Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard who will be joined by Goldblum, Dern and Neil for the first time.
The sequel will hit theaters on June 11, 2021 after it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.


upi--2020-10-23--Watch: Twice members pose in 'Eyes Wide Open' jacket making film

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- South Korean girl group Twice is gearing up to release its new album .
@ @ @ @ @ `` jacket making video '' for the album , Eyes Wide Open , on Friday @ @ @ @ @ behind-the-scenes look at the members shooting promo photos for the album .
The members took @ @ @ @ @ and also posed against a colorful floral backdrop .
Twice will release Eyes Wide Open @ @ @ @ @ album , on Monday .
The album features the single `` I Ca n't Stop @ @ @ @ @ a teaser Thursday for its `` I Ca n't Stop Me '' music video .
@ @ @ @ @ of Twice dancing on a subway platform .
Twice released a new Korean EP , @ @ @ @ @ June , and a Japanese album , # Twice3 , in September .
Twice consists @ @ @ @ @ Momo , Sana , Jihyo , Mina , Dahyun , Chaeyoung and Tzuyu .
The @ @ @ @ @ 2015 .

Oct. 23 (UPI) -- South Korean girl group Twice is gearing up to release its new album.
The K-pop group shared a "jacket making video" for the album, Eyes Wide Open, on Friday.
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The video gives a behind-the-scenes look at the members shooting promo photos for the album. The members took stark black and white shots and also posed against a colorful floral backdrop.
Twice will release Eyes Wide Open, its second Korean studio album, on Monday. The album features the single "I Can't Stop Me."
Twice released a teaser Thursday for its "I Can't Stop Me" music video. The clip shows the members of Twice dancing on a subway platform.
Twice released a new Korean EP, More & More, in June, and a Japanese album, #Twice3, in September.
Twice consists of Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung and Tzuyu. The group made its debut in 2015.


upi--2020-10-23--Different type of photosynthesis may save temperate crops from climate change

Oct. 23 ( UPI ) -- In many places , climate change is expected to bring hotter , drier weather .
In a new study , published Friday in the journal The Plant Cell , scientists considered whether an alternative mode of photosynthesis , might yield more heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plants .
Most plants in arid and semi-arid environs use a photosynthesis method called Crassulacean acid metabolism , or CAM .
Alternatively , plants in temperate environs , including crops , rely on a photosynthesis method called C3 carbon fixation .
Plants using C3 carbon fixation absorb CO2 through their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process allows C3 plants to immediately convert sunlight into food .
When conditions are especially hot and dry , C3 metabolism causes plants to lose too much water .
Conversely , CAM plants absorb CO2 through their stomatal pores at the night .
The carbon gets stored in cells until daytime , when it is converted into food via photosynthesis .
This alternative carbon fixation technique allows CAM plants to close their stomatal pores during the day to prevent excess water loss .
For the new study , researchers developed sophisticated biological models @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to perform CAM photosynthesis would fare better as hotter , drier weather becomes the norm .
Researchers tested their genetic engineering simulations across a variety of temperature and relative humidity conditions .
The data showed that the benefits provided by a switch to CAM metabolism are influenced by the vacuolar storage capacity of a plant 's leaves , which is dictated by climate conditions .
`` Moreover , our model identified an alternative CAM cycle involving mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase as a potential contributor to initial carbon fixation at night , '' researchers wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a range of environmental conditions show that the water-saving potential of CAM strongly depends on the daytime weather conditions . ''
In other words , engineering CAM metabolism in temperature plants is n't a cure-all .
Still , authors of the new study suggest their findings will help plant scientists developed new strategies for engineering greater resiliency among C3 crops .
`` Modelling is a powerful tool for exploring complex systems and it provides insights that can guide lab and field-based work , '' lead study author Nadine Töpfer said in a news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results will provide encouragement and ideas for the researchers who aim to transfer the water-conserving trait of CAM plants into other species , '' said Töpfer , a postdoctoral researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research in Germany .

Plants in arid and semi-arid climates use a different form of photosynthesis than plants and crops in temperate environs, and new research suggests it could help temperate crops survive droughts. Photo by Pxfuel /CC
Oct. 23 (UPI) -- In many places, climate change is expected to bring hotter, drier weather. In a new study, published Friday in the journal The Plant Cell, scientists considered whether an alternative mode of photosynthesis, might yield more heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plants. Most plants in arid and semi-arid environs use a photosynthesis method called Crassulacean acid metabolism, or CAM. Alternatively, plants in temperate environs, including crops, rely on a photosynthesis method called C3 carbon fixation. Advertisement
Plants using C3 carbon fixation absorb CO2 through their leaves' stomatal pores. The daytime process allows C3 plants to immediately convert sunlight into food. When conditions are especially hot and dry, C3 metabolism causes plants to lose too much water.
Conversely, CAM plants absorb CO2 through their stomatal pores at the night. The carbon gets stored in cells until daytime, when it is converted into food via photosynthesis. This alternative carbon fixation technique allows CAM plants to close their stomatal pores during the day to prevent excess water loss.
For the new study, researchers developed sophisticated biological models to determine whether C3 plants genetically engineered to perform CAM photosynthesis would fare better as hotter, drier weather becomes the norm.
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Researchers tested their genetic engineering simulations across a variety of temperature and relative humidity conditions. The data showed that the benefits provided by a switch to CAM metabolism are influenced by the vacuolar storage capacity of a plant's leaves, which is dictated by climate conditions.
"Moreover, our model identified an alternative CAM cycle involving mitochondrial isocitrate dehydrogenase as a potential contributor to initial carbon fixation at night," researchers wrote in their paper. "Simulations across a range of environmental conditions show that the water-saving potential of CAM strongly depends on the daytime weather conditions."
In other words, engineering CAM metabolism in temperature plants isn't a cure-all. Still, authors of the new study suggest their findings will help plant scientists developed new strategies for engineering greater resiliency among C3 crops.
"Modelling is a powerful tool for exploring complex systems and it provides insights that can guide lab and field-based work," lead study author Nadine Töpfer said in a news release.
"I believe that our results will provide encouragement and ideas for the researchers who aim to transfer the water-conserving trait of CAM plants into other species," said Töpfer, a postdoctoral researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research in Germany.


upi--2020-10-24--Arnold Schwarzenegger recovering from heart surgery

Oct. 24 ( UPI ) -- Film star and former California Gov .
Arnold Schwarzenegger confirmed on social media he @ @ @ @ @ `` Thanks to the team at the Cleveland Clinic , I have a new aortic @ @ @ @ @ my new pulmonary valve from my last surgery , '' the 73-year-old actor tweeted Friday @ @ @ @ @ and have already been walking the streets of Cleveland enjoying your amazing statues .
Thank @ @ @ @ @ nurse on my team ! ''
His post included one photo of him in a @ @ @ @ @ of him touring the city .
The Terminator star 's surgery comes two years after @ @ @ @ @ replace a previous pulmonic valve replacement .
The operation took place two years after he @ @ @ @ @ a previous pulmonic valve replacement .
The actor is known for his roles in the @ @ @ @ @ as well as the movies Twins , Kindergarten Cop , Total Recall and True Lies @ @ @ @ @ governor of California from 2003 to 2011 .

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Arnold Schwarzenegger said he feels "fantastic" after undergoing heart surgery this week. File Photo by Mori Keizo/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Film star and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger confirmed on social media he has undergone heart surgery. "Thanks to the team at the Cleveland Clinic, I have a new aortic valve to go along with my new pulmonary valve from my last surgery," the 73-year-old actor tweeted Friday. Advertisement
"I feel fantastic and have already been walking the streets of Cleveland enjoying your amazing statues. Thank you to every doc and nurse on my team!"
His post included one photo of him in a hospital bed and three others of him touring the city.
The Terminator star's surgery comes two years after he underwent heart surgery to replace a previous pulmonic valve replacement. The operation took place two years after he had heart surgery to replace a previous pulmonic valve replacement.
The actor is known for his roles in the Terminator and Expendables franchises, as well as the movies Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Total Recall and True Lies.
He served as the governor of California from 2003 to 2011.
Thanks to the team at the Cleveland Clinic, I have a new aortic valve to go along with my new pulmonary valve from my last surgery. I feel fantastic and have already been walking the streets of Cleveland enjoying your amazing statues. Thank you to every doc and nurse on my team! pic.twitter.com/hmIbsEMHtA— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) October 23, 2020


upi--2020-10-24--U.S. reaches new one-day coronavirus case high of 83,000

Georgia residents fill out voting forms as they wait to vote early at the Mountain Park Activity Center in Stone Mountain, Ga., on Friday. Photo by Tami Chappell/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 24 (UPI) -- The United States on Friday hit a new one-day high for reported coronavirus infections with more than 83,000, topping the previous record set in July by more than 5,000, the latest data revealed. Johns Hopkins University's global tracker showed 83,757 new cases recorded Friday, up from 71,671 confirmed Thursday. Advertisement
The country's seven-day average of new cases increased to more than 63,000 on Friday, an 84% increase from mid-September. The figures appear to counter President Donald Trump's statement during this week's presidential debate that the United States was "rounding the corner" in its war against the virus.
"We easily will hit six-figure numbers in terms of the number of cases," Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, told CNN. "And the deaths are going to go up precipitously in the next three to four weeks, following usually new cases by about two to three weeks."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Texas leads the country with the most new COVID-19 cases over the past seven days with 35,292 confirmations. Illinois followed with 29,088, Wisconsin 24,701, Florida with 22,621 and California with 22,323.
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Coronavirus cases have skyrocketed in the Midwest and Rocky Mountains regions. Chicago is averaging 1,542 cases per day, or 30 per 100,000 residents. On Wednesday, Wisconsin accepted its first patient to its new field hospital at State Fair Park in West Allies.
"With record-high numbers of positive cases, hospitalizations, and staffing shortages, there has never been a more critical time for Wisconsinites to act and help stop the spread," Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary-designee Andrea Palm said in a statement.
North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Rhode Island, Arkansas, Kentucky and Mississippi are some of the states that have seen coronavirus cases jump to record or near-record highs over the past month, according to the health statistics.
COVID-19 pandemic alters life in New York City


upi--2020-10-24--Pop Smoke's 'Shoot For the Stars' tops U.S. album chart

Oct. 24 ( UPI ) -- Late rapper Pop Smoke 's Shoot For the Stars Aim For the Moon is @ @ @ @ @ in the United States .
Coming in at No .
2 on the Billboard 200 @ @ @ @ @ Savage & Metro Boomin 's Savage Mode II , followed by Juice WRLD 's Legends @ @ @ @ @ 3 , Lil Baby 's My Turn at No .
4 and Machine Gun Kelly @ @ @ @ @ at No .
5 .
Rounding out the top tier are BLACKPINK 's The Album @ @ @ @ @ Fleetwood Mac 's Rumours at No .
7 , the Hamilton soundtrack at No .
@ @ @ @ @ Again 's Top at No .
9 and Taylor Swift 's Folklore at No .
@ @ @ @ @ shot and killed in a home invasion in Los Angeles in February .
He was @ @

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21 Savage arrives at The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute Benefit "Camp: Notes on Fashion" in New York City in 2019. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Late rapper Pop Smoke's Shoot For the Stars Aim For the Moon is the No. 1 album in the United States. Coming in at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart dated Saturday is 21 Savage & Metro Boomin's Savage Mode II, followed by Juice WRLD's Legends Never Die at No. 3, Lil Baby's My Turn at No. 4 and Machine Gun Kelly's Tickets to My Downfall at No. 5. Advertisement
Rounding out the top tier are BLACKPINK's The Album at No. 6, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours at No. 7, the Hamilton soundtrack at No. 8, YoungBoy Never Broke Again's Top at No. 9 and Taylor Swift's Folklore at No. 10.
Pop Smoke was shot and killed in a home invasion in Los Angeles in February. He was 20.


upi--2020-10-24--Hurricane Epsilon expected to bring high surf to U.S. coast

Oct. 21 -- Hurricane Epsilon headed northeast away from the U.S. mainland Saturday morning , but was expected to bring high surf and rip tides to the coast .
In its 5 a.m. EDT update , the National Hurricane Center said Epsilon was on the brink of weakening to tropical storm status , with 75 mph maximum sustained winds .
The storm was 355 miles north-northeast of Bermuda and 815 miles southwest of Cape Race , Newfoundland , and was moving north-northeast at 12 mph .
Forecasters said the storm will increase in forward speed and is expected to continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off the coast of Newfoundland Island .
It 's expected to weaken to a tropical storm by early Sunday .
`` Epsilon is forecast to become a large and powerful post-tropical cyclone early next week , '' the NHC said .
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect , but the NHC warned Epsilon could cause large swells effecting Bermuda , the Greater Antilles , the Leeward Islands , the U.S. East Coast and Atlantic Canadian coast over the next few days .
`` These swells are likely to cause life-threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advisory said .
The 26th storm of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season strengthened into a hurricane on Tuesday night and continued to rapidly intensify throughout the remainder of the night and early on Wednesday .
On Wednesday afternoon , it became the fourth major hurricane of the season when its maximum sustained winds peaked at 115 mph .
Hurricane-force winds extended outward from the storm 's center by about 25 miles , but tropical-storm force winds extended even farther out from the center at about 310 miles .
For the second time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spawned a storm named Epsilon on Monday , within 3 hours after it developed into a tropical depression .
The only other Epsilon in history was an unusually late storm , and it formed just before the official end of hurricane season on Nov. 30 in the open Atlantic Ocean on Nov. 29 , 2005 .
It went on to strengthen into Hurricane Epsilon on Dec. 2 .
By the time winds subsided back below hurricane strength on Dec. 7 , it had become the longest-lived December hurricane on record .
The formation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the record of 28 named storms set in 2005 -- the only other year to use the Greek alphabet to name storms .
Epsilon is the 10th hurricane to develop in the basin this season .
Epsilon formed in 2020 over a month earlier than the previous record holder .
Now , only one Greek letter , Zeta , that has been used before to name a tropical system will remain on the list for the next tropical storm that brews .
After that , should storms continue to form through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be uncharted territory .
AccuWeather is rating Epsilon less than one on the AccuWeather RealImpact Scale for Hurricanes for Bermuda .
The scale was created by the company in 2019 to offer a more comprehensive outlook for tropical storm and hurricane impacts than the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale .
The fall of 2014 was also the last and only time that Bermuda endured two direct hits from hurricanes in the same season , when Hurricane Fay made landfall in Bermuda less than a week before Gonzalo .

Forecasters warned that large swells generated by Hurricane Epsilon will affect the eastern coast of the United States over the next few days. Photo courtesy of NOAA
Oct. 25 -- Hurricane Epsilon headed northeast away from the U.S. mainland and was projected to become a powerful post-tropical cyclone by Sunday night. In its 9 p.m. GMT update Sunday, the National Hurricane Center said Epsilon had 70 mph maximum sustained winds. The storm was 420 miles east of Cape Race, Newfoundland, and was moving east-northeast at 46 mph. Advertisement
No coastal watches or warnings are in effect.
A faster east-northeastward to northeastward motion is expected later Sunday through Monday.
The 26th storm of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season strengthened into a hurricane on Tuesday night and continued to rapidly intensify throughout the remainder of the night and early on Wednesday.
On Wednesday afternoon, it became the fourth major hurricane of the season when its maximum sustained winds peaked at 115 mph. Hurricane-force winds extended outward from the storm's center by about 25 miles, but tropical-storm force winds extended even farther out from the center at about 310 miles.
For the second time in recorded history, the Atlantic Basin spawned a storm named Epsilon on Monday, within 3 hours after it developed into a tropical depression.
The only other Epsilon in history was an unusually late storm, and it formed just before the official end of hurricane season on Nov. 30 in the open Atlantic Ocean on Nov. 29, 2005. It went on to strengthen into Hurricane Epsilon on Dec. 2. By the time winds subsided back below hurricane strength on Dec. 7, it had become the longest-lived December hurricane on record.
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The formation of Epsilon brought this season even closer to the record of 28 named storms set in 2005 -- the only other year to use the Greek alphabet to name storms. Epsilon is the 10th hurricane to develop in the basin this season.
Epsilon formed in 2020 over a month earlier than the previous record holder. Now, only one Greek letter, Zeta, that has been used before to name a tropical system will remain on the list for the next tropical storm that brews. After that, should storms continue to form through the end of the year, it would be uncharted territory.
AccuWeather is rating Epsilon less than one on the AccuWeather RealImpact Scale for Hurricanes for Bermuda. The scale was created by the company in 2019 to offer a more comprehensive outlook for tropical storm and hurricane impacts than the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.
The fall of 2014 was also the last and only time that Bermuda endured two direct hits from hurricanes in the same season, when Hurricane Fay made landfall in Bermuda less than a week before Gonzalo.


upi--2020-10-24--Folk singer Arlo Guthrie announces retirement from touring

Oct. 24 ( UPI ) -- American folk singer Arlo Guthrie has announced his retirement at the age of 73 .
`` It 's been a great 50+ years of being a working entertainer , but I reached the difficult decision that touring and stage shows are no longer possible , '' the `` Alice 's Restaurant '' singer wrote on Facebook Friday .
`` I 've canceled the upcoming shows , and am not accepting offers for new ones .
That 's the short version . ''
Guthrie went on to say he had mini-strokes in 2016 and 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year .
`` I 'd lost some ability to walk , and I wondered if if would be able to play music , '' he recalled in his post .
`` I spent about a week in a rehab center to re-learn the basics , like walking .
I went home after that , and began a regimen of playing guitar , walking ... All the things I would need to continue touring and performing .
During the entire time , [ my girlfriend ] Marti kept the family and close friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took really great care of me .
I needed all the help I could get .
And she was there to see it done right .
By the the time our first shows began in 2020 , I was at about at 80 % and felt like I was improving .
Then the pandemic hit . ''
Guthrie said he and his girlfriend have been `` holed up '' at his farm in Massachusetts since June , `` trying to keep out of harms way , and also trying to provide some online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The son of the late Woody Guthrie said he is looking forward to retirement , but promises to continue speaking out against social injustice wherever he sees it .
`` I 'm happy , healthy and good to go , even if I 'm not going anywhere .
I 've taken back 6-9 months that I used to spend on the road , and enjoying myself with Marti , my family and friends .
In short - Gone Fishing , '' he said .

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Arlo Guthrie, 73, has announced his retirement from touring. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 24 (UPI) -- American folk singer Arlo Guthrie has announced his retirement at the age of 73. "It's been a great 50+ years of being a working entertainer, but I reached the difficult decision that touring and stage shows are no longer possible," the "Alice's Restaurant" singer wrote on Facebook Friday. Advertisement
"I've canceled the upcoming shows, and am not accepting offers for new ones. That's the short version."
Guthrie went on to say he had mini-strokes in 2016 and 2019, followed by a more serious stroke last year.
"I'd lost some ability to walk, and I wondered if if would be able to play music," he recalled in his post.
"I spent about a week in a rehab center to re-learn the basics, like walking. I went home after that, and began a regimen of playing guitar, walking... All the things I would need to continue touring and performing. During the entire time, [my girlfriend] Marti kept the family and close friends advised as to my progress, and took really great care of me. I needed all the help I could get. And she was there to see it done right. By the the time our first shows began in 2020, I was at about at 80% and felt like I was improving. Then the pandemic hit."
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Guthrie said he and his girlfriend have been "holed up" at his farm in Massachusetts since June, "trying to keep out of harms way, and also trying to provide some online entertainment" for those doing likewise.
The son of the late Woody Guthrie said he is looking forward to retirement, but promises to continue speaking out against social injustice wherever he sees it.
"I'm happy, healthy and good to go, even if I'm not going anywhere. I've taken back 6-9 months that I used to spend on the road, and enjoying myself with Marti, my family and friends. In short - Gone Fishing," he said.