upi--2020-11-10--Watch: Firefighters rescue family of ducklings from storm drain

Nov. 10 ( UPI ) -- Firefighters in Florida were called out to the side of a road to rescue @ @ @ @ @ fell into a storm drain .
Lehigh Acres Fire Rescue said crews were summed Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ Alwynne Drive in Lehigh Acres when a family of ducklings fell into a storm drain @ @ @ @ @ from the rescue , which the mother duck watched cautiously from a distance .
A @ @ @ @ @ shows the moment the ducklings were scooped up in a large net and reunited with @ @ @

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Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Firefighters in Florida were called out to the side of a road to rescue a family of ducklings that fell into a storm drain.
Lehigh Acres Fire Rescue said crews were summed Tuesday morning to the side of Alwynne Drive in Lehigh Acres when a family of ducklings fell into a storm drain.
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The department shared photos from the rescue, which the mother duck watched cautiously from a distance.
A video tweeted by the department shows the moment the ducklings were scooped up in a large net and reunited with their mother.


upi--2020-11-10--Study: Little benefit for vitamin D, omega-3, exercise in seniors

Nov. 10 ( UPI ) -- Vitamin D , omega-3 supplements and exercising regularly -- either alone or in combination -- wo n't necessarily lower blood pressure , improve cognitive function or reduce risk for bone fractures in older adults , a study published Tuesday by JAMA found .
Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the risk for infections in some older adults , however , the researchers said .
For example , older adults who take 800 international units -- or 20 micrograms -- per day of vitamin D lowered risk for infections by 5 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ higher risk for suffering a fracture than those not taking the supplement , the data showed .
Those who take 1 gram a day of an omega-3 fatty acid supplement day had an 11 % lower risk for developing an infection , but an 18 % higher risk for suffering a broken bone .
And older adults in a strength-training exercise program with three , 30-minute sessions weekly had a 4 % higher risk for infection and a 6 % higher risk for fractures , the data showed .
All three health interventions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood pressure -- dropping average readings by one or two points -- and cognitive function performance , based on several commonly used measures , the researchers said .
`` The results suggest that additional vitamin D and omega 3 intake in active 70-plus adults without previous illnesses carries no benefit for the risk of non-vertebral fractures , or for muscle and memory function .
However , we suspect a connection with infections , '' study co-author Dr. Heike A. Bischoff-Ferrari told UPI .
In addition , `` certain groups could still benefit from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regard to infections and systolic blood pressure reduction , '' said Bischoff-Ferrari , a professor of geriatrics and aging research at University Hospital Zurich in Switzerland .
Vitamin D has been linked with improved immune system and bone health , while omega-3 fatty acids may have added benefits for heart health as well as brain function , according to the National Institutes of Health .
The National Institute on Aging also recommends regular physical exercise for older adults to improve both physical and mental health .
For this study , part of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support healthy aging among European seniors , the authors enrolled 2,157 adults age 70 and older from five European countries .
Study participants were divided into eight groups , with some receiving vitamin D , others receiving omega-3 and still others participating in an exercise program , or various combinations of all three , according to the researchers .
Some study participants also served as controls , meaning they received none of the three study interventions , the researchers said .
All 2,157 participants were tracked for an average of approximately three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study period .
They were roughly evenly divided among all eight groups , according to the researchers .
`` It is important to clarify that our results do not invalidate the overwhelming evidence of a benefit of exercise on health , '' Bischoff-Ferrari said .
`` Our exercise intervention was a simple home strength exercise program , which likely was not challenging enough in our unexpectedly active study population , where over 80 % already engaged moderate to high intensity exercise , '' she said .

A new study finds little benefit for vitamin D, omega-3 and exercise in older adults. Photo by Julim6 /Pixabay
Nov. 10 (UPI) -- Vitamin D, omega-3 supplements and exercising regularly -- either alone or in combination -- won't necessarily lower blood pressure, improve cognitive function or reduce risk for bone fractures in older adults, a study published Tuesday by JAMA found. Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the risk for infections in some older adults, however, the researchers said. Advertisement
For example, older adults who take 800 international units -- or 20 micrograms -- per day of vitamin D lowered risk for infections by 5%, but they had a 3% higher risk for suffering a fracture than those not taking the supplement, the data showed.
Those who take 1 gram a day of an omega-3 fatty acid supplement day had an 11% lower risk for developing an infection, but an 18% higher risk for suffering a broken bone.
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And older adults in a strength-training exercise program with three, 30-minute sessions weekly had a 4% higher risk for infection and a 6% higher risk for fractures, the data showed.
All three health interventions had negligible effects on study participants' blood pressure -- dropping average readings by one or two points -- and cognitive function performance, based on several commonly used measures, the researchers said.
"The results suggest that additional vitamin D and omega 3 intake in active 70-plus adults without previous illnesses carries no benefit for the risk of non-vertebral fractures, or for muscle and memory function. However, we suspect a connection with infections," study co-author Dr. Heike A. Bischoff-Ferrari told UPI.
In addition, "certain groups could still benefit from omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D with regard to infections and systolic blood pressure reduction," said Bischoff-Ferrari, a professor of geriatrics and aging research at University Hospital Zurich in Switzerland.
Vitamin D has been linked with improved immune system and bone health, while omega-3 fatty acids may have added benefits for heart health as well as brain function, according to the National Institutes of Health.
The National Institute on Aging also recommends regular physical exercise for older adults to improve both physical and mental health.
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For this study, part of the DO-Health project, a research initiative designed to support healthy aging among European seniors, the authors enrolled 2,157 adults age 70 and older from five European countries.
Study participants were divided into eight groups, with some receiving vitamin D, others receiving omega-3 and still others participating in an exercise program, or various combinations of all three, according to the researchers.
Some study participants also served as controls, meaning they received none of the three study interventions, the researchers said.
All 2,157 participants were tracked for an average of approximately three years, and 25 died during the study period. They were roughly evenly divided among all eight groups, according to the researchers.
"It is important to clarify that our results do not invalidate the overwhelming evidence of a benefit of exercise on health," Bischoff-Ferrari said.
"Our exercise intervention was a simple home strength exercise program, which likely was not challenging enough in our unexpectedly active study population, where over 80% already engaged moderate to high intensity exercise," she said.


upi--2020-11-10--NYPD ends policy requiring hijab removal for mug shots

Nov. 10 ( UPI ) -- The New York Police Department has agreed to no longer force women to remove hijabs for mug shots as part of a settlement of a federal lawsuit .
At issue , was a lawsuit filed two years ago by two Muslim women , Jamilla Clark and Arwa Aziz , who claimed they were embarrassingly forced to remove their hijab headscarves for mug shots after being arrested on low-level charges for violating orders of protection that were later dismissed .
`` No one should be forced to undress just to be fed into a facial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawyer and founder and executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project Albert Cahn said in a statement .
`` New Yorkers are able to get a drivers ' license or passport while wearing the hijab , and there 's absolutely no reason for it to be removed by police . ''
The New York Police Department agreed in a settlement filed last week to change its policy to allow Muslim women who wear the headscarves to conform to Islamic standards of modesty to keep the hijab on during police photographs as along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreement applies to not only hijabs , but also other religious head coverings , such as burqa , turban , or wigs worn by Orthodox Jews .
`` It was appalling that this was happening for many years in New York and that our city was betraying the values of religious inclusion , '' said the women 's lawyer Albert Fox Cahn .
`` But now we wo n't see any more New Yorkers subjected to this discriminatory policy . ''
The NYPD also agreed to train officers to `` take all possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' to allow prisoners to keep their religious headwear on to protect `` privacy , rights and religious beliefs . ''
According to the settlement , there is an exception for searches for weapons or contraband .
The police department also agreed to keep track of any incidents when prisoners were forced to remove religious headwear over the next three years .
The two women who filed the lawsuit alleged that the NYPD violated their constitutional rights , including the First Amendment , Fourth Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment , and the rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The settlement left outstanding monetary claims for damages .
`` Now that the NYPD has agreed to end the policy , they still need to go a step further , '' Cahn added in his statement .
`` That 's because this settlement does n't address the thousands of New Yorkers who were subjected to this unlawful policy .
That 's why we 're still fighting in court to make sure the NYPD pays for the harm its already inflicted . ''
Patricia Miller , chief of the Special Federal Litigation Division @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said in a statement Monday that the settlement was `` a good reform '' for the NYPD .
`` It carefully balanced the department 's respect for firmly held religious beliefs with the legitimate law enforcement need to take arrest photos , and should set an example for other police departments around the country , '' Miller said .

Volunteer Asma Kayal (C) demonstrates how a Hijab is worn during 'Meet-a-Muslim' day at the Worcester Islamic Center in Worcester, Massachusetts. File Photo by Matthew Healey/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 10 (UPI) -- The New York Police Department has agreed to no longer force women to remove hijabs for mug shots as part of a settlement of a federal lawsuit. At issue, was a lawsuit filed two years ago by two Muslim women, Jamilla Clark and Arwa Aziz, who claimed they were embarrassingly forced to remove their hijab headscarves for mug shots after being arrested on low-level charges for violating orders of protection that were later dismissed. Advertisement
"No one should be forced to undress just to be fed into a facial recognition database," the women's lawyer and founder and executive director of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project Albert Cahn said in a statement. "New Yorkers are able to get a drivers' license or passport while wearing the hijab, and there's absolutely no reason for it to be removed by police."
The New York Police Department agreed in a settlement filed last week to change its policy to allow Muslim women who wear the headscarves to conform to Islamic standards of modesty to keep the hijab on during police photographs as along as their faces are unobstructed. The agreement applies to not only hijabs, but also other religious head coverings, such as burqa, turban, or wigs worn by Orthodox Jews.
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"It was appalling that this was happening for many years in New York and that our city was betraying the values of religious inclusion," said the women's lawyer Albert Fox Cahn. "But now we won't see any more New Yorkers subjected to this discriminatory policy."
The NYPD also agreed to train officers to "take all possible steps, when consistent with personal safety," to allow prisoners to keep their religious headwear on to protect "privacy, rights and religious beliefs."
According to the settlement, there is an exception for searches for weapons or contraband.
The police department also agreed to keep track of any incidents when prisoners were forced to remove religious headwear over the next three years.
The two women who filed the lawsuit alleged that the NYPD violated their constitutional rights, including the First Amendment, Fourth Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment, and the rights of other people in their same situation. The settlement left outstanding monetary claims for damages.
"Now that the NYPD has agreed to end the policy, they still need to go a step further," Cahn added in his statement. "That's because this settlement doesn't address the thousands of New Yorkers who were subjected to this unlawful policy. That's why we're still fighting in court to make sure the NYPD pays for the harm its already inflicted."
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Patricia Miller, chief of the Special Federal Litigation Division of the New York City Law Department, said in a statement Monday that the settlement was "a good reform" for the NYPD.
"It carefully balanced the department's respect for firmly held religious beliefs with the legitimate law enforcement need to take arrest photos, and should set an example for other police departments around the country," Miller said.


upi--2020-11-11--U.S. adds another record toll of COVID-19 cases, most deaths in 3 months

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- For the fourth time in only about a week , the United States has set another daily record for new COVID-19 cases -- and saw the most coronavirus deaths in three months , according to updated data Wednesday .
The data from researchers at Johns Hopkins University shows 136,300 new cases were added nationwide on Tuesday , topping the previous mark by about 8,000 .
New daily records were set Nov. 3 , Nov. 5 , Nov. 7 and Tuesday .
Combined , the United States has added about 971,000 new cases in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hopkins .
Tuesday also saw the most deaths nationwide , about 1,400 , since mid-August .
Since the start of the pandemic , there have been 10.26 million coronavirus cases and 239,700 deaths in the United States , according to Johns Hopkins data .
Hospitalizations reached a record high of about 62,000 Tuesday , according to the COVID Tracking Project .
Of those patients , about 12,000 were in intensive care -- a level exceeded only by the early days of the outbreak in April .
The new data came on the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that more Americans are concerned about the growing health crisis , but fewer are now willing to take steps to control the outbreak , like isolation and proper distancing .
In Texas , the El Paso area has seen a surge in cases and deaths .
Officials say hundreds have died so far and funeral homes are struggling to keep up .
Some funeral home directors are now having to create impromptu body storage spaces to cope .
Christopher Lujan , director of the Sunset Funeral Homes in El Paso , told KDBC-TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a walk-in cooler for storage .
`` Hopefully we get people to understand that this pandemic is serious , '' he said .
Area hospitals are also inundated with patients .
Some of the seriously ill have needed to be airlifted to other locations in New Mexico and Texas .
In Illinois , Gov .
J.B. Pritzker said his state is dealing with the worst surge of the pandemic so far , with hospitalizations spiking to about 4,200 per day .
Pritzker urged residents to wear masks and advised against large holiday gatherings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers .
`` They need your help , '' he told reporters .
`` The nation is in a precarious place right now in this pandemic . ''
In Ohio , Gov .
Mike DeWine is scheduled to give a statewide address Wednesday to discuss the `` critical stage '' of the crisis .

A masked man passes the New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street in New York City on Monday. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced new restrictions as COVID-19 cases increased in their states and the United States set another daily record for new infections. The data from researchers at Johns Hopkins University shows 136,300 new cases were added nationwide Tuesday, topping the previous mark by about 8,000. New daily records were set Nov. 3, Thursday, Saturday and Tuesday. Advertisement
Combined, the United States has added about 971,000 new cases in the past eight days, according to Johns Hopkins.
Tuesday also saw the most deaths nationwide, about 1,400, since mid-August.
Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 10.26 million coronavirus cases and 239,700 deaths in the United States, according to Johns Hopkins data.
Hospitalizations reached a record high of about 62,000 Tuesday, according to the COVID Tracking Project. Of those patients, about 12,000 were in intensive care -- a level exceeded only by the early days of the outbreak in April.
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Cases have surged in New York, where Cuomo announced Wednesday that new restrictions would go into effect Friday. Private indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people, and gyms, bars and restaurants must close each night at 10 p.m. The curfew will apply only to restaurants licensed by the state liquor authority. Others may provide take-out after 10 p.m.
Cuomo told reporters the spread of the virus is mostly happening at bars, restaurants, gyms and house parties.
"COVID is getting worse by the day. All around the country. The fall surge is here. We are taking action but we need New Yorkers to do their part. Wear a mask. Get tested. Follow all health guidelines. Take this seriously," he tweeted.
New York reported 4,820 positive tests and 21 deaths Tuesday and 1,628 hospitalizations.
The new data came on the same day Gallup said in a new survey that a growing number of Americans are concerned about the growing health crisis, but fewer are now willing to take steps to control the outbreak, such as isolation and proper distancing, compared to earlier in the pandemic.
DeWine announced Ohio will reinstitute its statewide mask mandate as the state has reported 50,000 new COVID-19 cases within 13 days.
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Under the new order, retail businesses will be required to post a face covering requirement sign at all public entrances and ensure that employees and customers wear masks.
DeWine will also form a Retail Compliance Unit that will inspect businesses to ensure compliance. A first violation will result in a written warning, while a second will result in the store being closed for 24 hours.
"We know that masks work. They are the easiest, most cost-effective way to limit the spread of COVID-19," he said at an afternoon press conference Wednesday.
In Texas, the El Paso area has seen a surge in cases and deaths. Officials say hundreds have died and funeral homes are struggling to keep up. Some funeral home directors are now having to create impromptu body storage spaces to cope.
Christopher Lujan, director of the Sunset Funeral Homes in El Paso, told KDBC-TV he's converted a music room into a walk-in cooler for storage.
"Hopefully we get people to understand that this pandemic is serious," he said.
Area hospitals are also inundated with patients. Some of the seriously ill have been airlifted to other locations in New Mexico and Texas.
In Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said his state is dealing with the worst surge of the pandemic so far, with hospitalizations spiking to about 4,200 per day.
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Pritzker urged residents to wear masks and advised against large holiday gatherings for the safety of front-line health workers.
"They need your help," he told reporters. "The nation is in a precarious place right now in this pandemic."


upi--2020-11-11--Watch: Hugh Grant shares experience with COVID-19

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Hugh Grant says he had COVID-19 earlier this year .
The 60-year-old actor discussed his experience with COVID-19 and the alarm he felt while ill with the virus during Tuesday 's episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert .
Grant said he and his wife , Anna Eberstein , came down with COVID-19 in the winter .
Grant said he subsequently got a COVID-19 antibody test that showed antibodies in his system .
On the Late Show , Grant described his COVID-19 symptoms , which included excessive sweating , pressure in his chest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think I got it in sort of February , '' the star said .
`` It started as just a very strange syndrome where I kept breaking into a terrible sweat .
It was like a poncho of sweat ; embarrassing , really .
My eyeballs felt about three sizes too big , and this feeling as if an enormous man was sitting on my chest . ''
`` I thought , ' I do n't know what this is . '
Then I was walking down the street one day and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smell a damn thing . '
You start to panic , because by then , people had just started to talk about this as a symptom , '' he added .
Grant said he attempted smelling flowers , garbage and his wife 's perfume , to no avail .
`` You get more and more desperate , '' he said of his loss of smell .
`` You want to sniff stranger 's armpits , because you ca n't smell anything . ''
Grant has spent the COVID-19 lockdown at home with Eberstein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three children with Eberstein and two kids with his ex-partner Tinglan Hong .
`` I 'm quarantined with three , a boy and two small girls , '' he said .
`` I 've been locked up , the first time for three and a half months , with a four year old and a two year old girl .
It 's been all about Barbies . ''
Grant stars in The Undoing , an HBO adaptation of Jean Hanff Korelitz 's novel You Should Have Known .
The series co-stars Nicole Kidman @ @ @ @ @ @

Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Hugh Grant says he had COVID-19 earlier this year.
The 60-year-old actor discussed his experience with COVID-19 and the alarm he felt while ill with the virus during Tuesday's episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
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Grant said he and his wife, Anna Eberstein, came down with COVID-19 in the winter. Grant said he subsequently got a COVID-19 antibody test that showed antibodies in his system.
On the Late Show, Grant described his COVID-19 symptoms, which included excessive sweating, pressure in his chest and a loss of smell.
"I think I got it in sort of February," the star said. "It started as just a very strange syndrome where I kept breaking into a terrible sweat. It was like a poncho of sweat; embarrassing, really. My eyeballs felt about three sizes too big, and this feeling as if an enormous man was sitting on my chest."
"I thought, 'I don't know what this is.' Then I was walking down the street one day and I thought, 'I can't smell a damn thing.' You start to panic, because by then, people had just started to talk about this as a symptom," he added.
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Grant said he attempted smelling flowers, garbage and his wife's perfume, to no avail.
"You get more and more desperate," he said of his loss of smell. "You want to sniff stranger's armpits, because you can't smell anything."
Grant has spent the COVID-19 lockdown at home with Eberstein and their children. The actor has three children with Eberstein and two kids with his ex-partner Tinglan Hong.
"I'm quarantined with three, a boy and two small girls," he said. "I've been locked up, the first time for three and a half months, with a four year old and a two year old girl. It's been all about Barbies."
Grant stars in The Undoing, an HBO adaptation of Jean Hanff Korelitz's novel You Should Have Known. The series co-stars Nicole Kidman and airs Sundays on HBO.


upi--2020-11-11--North Korea has up to 60 nuclear weapons, U.S. think tank says

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- North Korea is believed to have 15 to 60 nuclear weapons in its arsenal and continues to pose a major threat to the United States , according to a U.S. think tank .
The Institute for National Strategic Studies at National Defense University in Washington said in its most recent report the Kim Jong Un regime operates `` more as a quasi-criminal enterprise than a legitimate nation-state '' and may have developed as many as 60 nuclear bombs .
The INSS ' `` Strategic Assessment 2020 : Into a New Era of Great Power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Iran are a trio of `` rogue , disruptor and spoiler states '' that pose threats to U.S. national security .
Beyond its nuclear capacity , North Korea has also conducted arms sales and the `` transfer of military technology '' that has abetted Iran 's ballistic missile program .
Pyongyang has also `` pursued military cooperation and technology transfers in the Sudan and offered small arms and ballistic missiles to the Houthi rebels in Yemen through a Syrian intermediary . ''
North Korea 's cyberattacks on banks have also been on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Bangladesh , Chile , Guatemala , India , Kuwait , Mexico , Pakistan , the Philippines , South Korea , Taiwan , Turkey and Vietnam have been successful , according to the INSS .
`` These attacks can be quite lucrative ; it has been reported that in one such attack against the Central Bank of Bangladesh in 2016 , North Korea netted $ 81 million , '' the report says .
North Korea continues to develop weapons , but the United States and South Korea have prioritized diplomacy despite Pyongyang 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha met with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday to affirm close cooperation on North Korea and the `` Korean Peninsula peace process , '' Seoul said Tuesday .
South Korean news service Newsis reported Wednesday Kang also met with U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy , D-Conn. , and U.S. Sen. Chris Coons , D-Del.
, amid the transition of U.S. President-elect Joe Biden .
Kang said the two sides agreed to a `` firm commitment to promoting the peace process on the Korean Peninsula , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' according to Seoul 's foreign ministry .

North Korea has refused to resume denuclearization talks with the United States and could be maintaining dozens of nuclear bombs, according to the Institute for National Strategic Studies at National Defense University in Washington. File Photo by KCNA/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- North Korea is believed to have 15 to 60 nuclear weapons in its arsenal and continues to pose a major threat to the United States, according to a U.S. think tank. The Institute for National Strategic Studies at National Defense University in Washington said in its most recent report the Kim Jong Un regime operates "more as a quasi-criminal enterprise than a legitimate nation-state" and may have developed as many as 60 nuclear bombs. Advertisement
The INSS' "Strategic Assessment 2020: Into a New Era of Great Power Competition" says North Korea, Russia and Iran are a trio of "rogue, disruptor and spoiler states" that pose threats to U.S. national security.
Beyond its nuclear capacity, North Korea has also conducted arms sales and the "transfer of military technology" that has abetted Iran's ballistic missile program. Pyongyang has also "pursued military cooperation and technology transfers in the Sudan and offered small arms and ballistic missiles to the Houthi rebels in Yemen through a Syrian intermediary."
North Korea's cyberattacks on banks have also been on the rise. Breaches of financial institutions in Bangladesh, Chile, Guatemala, India, Kuwait, Mexico, Pakistan, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey and Vietnam have been successful, according to the INSS.
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"These attacks can be quite lucrative; it has been reported that in one such attack against the Central Bank of Bangladesh in 2016, North Korea netted $81 million," the report says.
North Korea continues to develop weapons, but the United States and South Korea have prioritized diplomacy despite Pyongyang's refusal to meet and discuss denuclearization.
South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha met with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday to affirm close cooperation on North Korea and the "Korean Peninsula peace process," Seoul said Tuesday.
South Korean news service Newsis reported Wednesday Kang also met with U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., and U.S. Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., amid the transition of U.S. President-elect Joe Biden. Kang said the two sides agreed to a "firm commitment to promoting the peace process on the Korean Peninsula, and stressed the need to strengthen diplomatic efforts," according to Seoul's foreign ministry.


upi--2020-11-11--'Alex Rider' renewed for Season 2 ahead of U.S. premiere

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Alex Rider has been renewed for a second season ahead of the teen spy @ @ @ @ @ IMDB TV in the United States .
`` This is MI6 dropping in to officially @ @ @ @ @ been renewed for Season 2 ! ''
the show 's Twitter feed said Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ outside of the United States on Amazon Prime , is based on Anthony Horowitz 's @ @ @ @ @ stars Otto Farrant as the titular British hero .
Season 1 consists of eight episodes @ @ @ @ @ Stephen Dillane , Vicky McClure and Andrew Buchan .

Otto Farrant's "Alex Rider" has been renewed for a second season. Photo courtesy of Sony Pictures Television
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Alex Rider has been renewed for a second season ahead of the teen spy drama's Friday premiere on IMDB TV in the United States. "This is MI6 dropping in to officially confirm that #AlexRiderTV has been renewed for Season 2!" the show's Twitter feed said Tuesday. Advertisement
The series, which airs outside of the United States on Amazon Prime, is based on Anthony Horowitz's young adult novels. It stars Otto Farrant as the titular British hero.
Season 1 consists of eight episodes. The cast also includes Stephen Dillane, Vicky McClure and Andrew Buchan.


upi--2020-11-11--Watch live: President Donald Trump attends Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington Cemetery

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump is planning attend the annual Veterans Day ceremony Wednesday at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington , D.C. , but the event is closed to the public this year .
Trump has n't made a public appearance since late last week , but will attend the ceremony and lay a wreath with first lady Melania Trump at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington , Va. , cemetery , according to the president 's schedule .
The ceremony is scheduled to start at 11 a.m. EST .
The Tomb of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where the ceremony is traditionally held , has been closed to the public since the spring .
Other select parts of the cemetery have reopened .
Wednesday 's ceremony will begin with Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie , a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve , laying a wreath at the tomb , which contains unidentified remains from each of the major U.S. military conflicts -- World War I , World War II , the Korean War and the Vietnam War .
Officials said the ceremony will be modified this year to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 .
Certain areas of Arlington National Cemetery are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Officials said anyone not wearing a face mask will not be allowed to enter .

1/3
President Donald Trump prepares to depart as he and first lady Melania Trump attend the National Veterans Day Observance on Wednesday at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI/Pool | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- After several days out of the public eye, President Donald Trump made a trip to Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday for the traditional Veterans Day ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Trump, first lady Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence made the trip across the Potomac River to honor the nation's fallen soldiers. Advertisement
A 21-gun salute was fired as they arrived for the wreath-laying ceremony.
Amid a steady rainfall, Trump saluted and Pence placed a hand over his heart as "Taps" was played at the tomb.
Veteran Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkie, a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, began the service by laying a wreath at the tomb, which contains unidentified remains from each of the major U.S. military conflicts -- World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
The event marked Trump's first public appearance since late last week. He was seen in public after golfing Saturday but has made no public remarks since losing the presidential election to Democratic challenger and former Vice President Joe Biden.
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The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its accompanying amphitheater, where the ceremonies are always held, has been closed to the public since the spring. Other select parts of the cemetery have reopened.
The ceremony was modified this year to ensure physical distancing to mitigate the threat of COVID-19.


upi--2020-11-11--No Season 2 for 'Outsider' on HBO

No Season 2 for 'Outsider' on HBO

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- HBO has confirmed it is not renewing The Outsider , a supernatural drama based on a Stephen King novel , for a second season .
Production company MRC and writer/executive producer Richard Price are trying to find another network or streaming platform where the show can continue .
`` We thank HBO for a great partnership in the first season and for helping to bring in a massive audience who fell in love with The Outsider , '' MRC Television President Elise Henderson said in a statement .
`` We are looking forward to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ series . ''
The Outsider starred Cynthia Erivo as a private investigator with special gifts who helps a sheriff ( Ben Mendelsohn ) solve a child 's murder and clear a suspect ( Jason Bateman ) with a confusing alibi .
`` We enjoyed our collaboration with Richard , Jason , Andrew [ Bernstein , ] and the MRC team , and we wish them well in continuing the world created by the brilliant Stephen King , '' HBO said in a statement Tuesday .
Castle Rock , another series inspired by King @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after two seasons last week .

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Cynthia Erivo's "The Outsider" won't get a second season at HBO. File Photo by Chris Chew/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- HBO has confirmed it is not renewing The Outsider, a supernatural drama based on a Stephen King novel, for a second season. Production company MRC and writer/executive producer Richard Price are trying to find another network or streaming platform where the show can continue. Advertisement
"We thank HBO for a great partnership in the first season and for helping to bring in a massive audience who fell in love with The Outsider," MRC Television President Elise Henderson said in a statement. "We are looking forward to finding a new home for this remarkable series."
The Outsider starred Cynthia Erivo as a private investigator with special gifts who helps a sheriff (Ben Mendelsohn) solve a child's murder and clear a suspect (Jason Bateman) with a confusing alibi.
"We enjoyed our collaboration with Richard, Jason, Andrew [Bernstein,] and the MRC team, and we wish them well in continuing the world created by the brilliant Stephen King," HBO said in a statement Tuesday.
Castle Rock, another series inspired by King's work, was canceled by Hulu after two seasons last week.


upi--2020-11-11--NASA certifies SpaceX to carry humans, OKs space station mission

ORLANDO , Fla. , Nov. 10 ( UPI ) -- NASA certified SpaceX 's spaceflight system Tuesday to carry astronauts to the International Space Station regularly , clearing the way for a four-person mission there planned for Saturday .
Elon Musk 's company plans to launch its Crew Dragon capsule , which its four passengers have called Resilience , aloft atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida .
This will mark the first time in the history of spaceflight that four people traveled into space in one capsule .
The space shuttles typically carried seven-member crews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nation 's launch provider for crewed missions and take seriously the responsibility that NASA has entrusted to us to carry American astronauts to and from the space station , '' Benji Reed , SpaceX 's senior director of human spaceflight , said at a press conference .
Liftoff for the newest crewed mission is planned for 7:49 p.m. EST , barring any interference by the weather .
Forecasters are keeping an eye on Hurricane Eta , which is expected to cross Florida north of Fort Myers on the west coast as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to become a tropical depression as it nears the east coast , north of the space center , later Thursday .
The launch is to mark the beginning of a six-month mission at the space station for NASA 's Shannon Walker , Victor Glover and Mike Hopkins , and Japan 's Soichi Noguchi .
This also would start a continuous presence of SpaceX 's Dragon capsule -- either cargo or crew models -- at the space station , Reed said .
`` Over the next 15 months , we will fly seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
Saturday 's launch , called SpaceX Crew-1 , marks the second time people will fly in the Dragon capsule and the first regular flight for the spacecraft .
The initial crewed mission , considered a test flight , brought NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley to the space station for two months .
They returned to Earth on Aug. 2 .
The Dragon now assumes the same role the space shuttle filled for NASA -- to ferry astronauts to the space station .
`` I 'm extremely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human spaceflight launches to American soil on an American rocket and spacecraft , '' NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said Tuesday .
`` Thank you to NASA for their continued support of SpaceX and partnership in achieving this goal , '' SpaceX founder Musk said in a statement Tuesday .
`` I could not be more proud of everyone at SpaceX and all of our suppliers , who worked incredibly hard to develop , test and fly the first commercial human spaceflight system in history to be certified by NASA . ''
NASA gave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after concluding the agency 's routine Flight Readiness Review .
Engineers and technicians for the space agency and SpaceX discussed , among other things , the recent launch abort of a Falcon 9 rocket on an uncrewed mission .
Inspections determined that a clogged venting hole in the engines had been blocked by lacquer that a contractor failed to completely remove following construction .
NASA postponed the Crew 1 mission partly to evaluate the problem with the clogged valve .

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The Crew Dragon capsule and Falcon 9 rocket are being prepared before being lifted vertically for the launch of four astronauts Saturday from Kennedy Space Center in Florida to the International Space Station. NASA Photo by Joel Kowsky | License Photo
ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 10 (UPI) -- NASA certified SpaceX's spaceflight system Tuesday to carry astronauts to the International Space Station regularly, clearing the way for a four-person mission there planned for Saturday. Elon Musk's company plans to launch its Crew Dragon capsule, which its four passengers have called Resilience, aloft atop a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Advertisement
This will mark the first time in the history of spaceflight that four people traveled into space in one capsule. The space shuttles typically carried seven-member crews.
"We are honored to be the nation's launch provider for crewed missions and take seriously the responsibility that NASA has entrusted to us to carry American astronauts to and from the space station," Benji Reed, SpaceX's senior director of human spaceflight, said at a press conference.
Liftoff for the newest crewed mission is planned for 7:49 p.m. EST, barring any interference by the weather.
Forecasters are keeping an eye on Hurricane Eta, which is expected to cross Florida north of Fort Myers on the west coast as a tropical storm Thursday. The storm is expected to become a tropical depression as it nears the east coast, north of the space center, later Thursday.
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The launch is to mark the beginning of a six-month mission at the space station for NASA's Shannon Walker, Victor Glover and Mike Hopkins, and Japan's Soichi Noguchi. This also would start a continuous presence of SpaceX's Dragon capsule -- either cargo or crew models -- at the space station, Reed said.
"Over the next 15 months, we will fly seven crew and cargo Dragon missions for NASA," he said.
Saturday's launch, called SpaceX Crew-1, marks the second time people will fly in the Dragon capsule and the first regular flight for the spacecraft. The initial crewed mission, considered a test flight, brought NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley to the space station for two months. They returned to Earth on Aug. 2.
The Dragon now assumes the same role the space shuttle filled for NASA -- to ferry astronauts to the space station.
"I'm extremely proud to say we are returning regular human spaceflight launches to American soil on an American rocket and spacecraft," NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said Tuesday.
"Thank you to NASA for their continued support of SpaceX and partnership in achieving this goal," SpaceX founder Musk said in a statement Tuesday.
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"I could not be more proud of everyone at SpaceX and all of our suppliers, who worked incredibly hard to develop, test and fly the first commercial human spaceflight system in history to be certified by NASA."
NASA gave a green light for Saturday's mission after concluding the agency's routine Flight Readiness Review. Engineers and technicians for the space agency and SpaceX discussed, among other things, the recent launch abort of a Falcon 9 rocket on an uncrewed mission.
Inspections determined that a clogged venting hole in the engines had been blocked by lacquer that a contractor failed to completely remove following construction.
NASA postponed the Crew 1 mission partly to evaluate the problem with the clogged valve.
20 years aboard the International Space Station
The International Space Station is photographed by Expedition 56 crew members from a Soyuz spacecraft after undocking on October 4, 2018. NASA astronauts Andrew Feustel and Ricky Arnold and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Artemyev executed a fly-around of the orbiting laboratory to take pictures of the space station before returning home after spending 197 days in space. Photo courtesy of NASA/Roscosmos


upi--2020-11-11--Browns' Odell Beckham Jr. has successful ACL surgery

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Cleveland Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. -- who is out for the rest of the 2020 season -- underwent a succesful surgery for the torn ACL in his left knee .
Beckham is expected to return for Week 1 of next season .
The Browns said Dr. James Andrews performed the anterior cruciate ligament repair on Tuesday at the Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Pensacola , Fla. '' Sit back , relax and watch how God works , '' Beckham wrote Tuesday on Instagram .
`` Now let the journey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injury during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 25 in Cincinnati .
He was targeted once , but did n't make a catch before he left the game in the first quarter and did not return .
The three-time Pro Bowl selection had 319 yards and three touchdowns in seven games this season .
Beckham , 28 , had 74 catches for 1,035 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games in 2019 , his first season with the Browns .
The seven-year veteran is signed with the Browns through the 2023 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of $ 14 million this season .

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Cleveland Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. sustained a season-ending knee injury on Oct. 25 and had surgery on Tuesday in Pensacola, Fla. File Photo by Aaron Josefczyk/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Cleveland Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. -- who is out for the rest of the 2020 season -- underwent a succesful surgery for the torn ACL in his left knee. Beckham is expected to return for Week 1 of next season. The Browns said Dr. James Andrews performed the anterior cruciate ligament repair on Tuesday at the Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Pensacola, Fla. Advertisement
"Sit back, relax and watch how God works," Beckham wrote Tuesday on Instagram. "Now let the journey begin."
Beckham sustained the knee injury during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 25 in Cincinnati. He was targeted once, but didn't make a catch before he left the game in the first quarter and did not return.
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The three-time Pro Bowl selection had 319 yards and three touchdowns in seven games this season. Beckham, 28, had 74 catches for 1,035 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games in 2019, his first season with the Browns.
The seven-year veteran is signed with the Browns through the 2023 season. He has a base salary of $14 million this season.
This week in the National Football League


upi--2020-11-11--Free food, retail perks offered to  U.S. military members on Veterans Day

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Restaurants , retailers and public parks in the United States are honoring veterans and active-duty military personnel Wednesday with free items and special perks for Veterans Day .
Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11 every year and honors all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces .
Many business each year offer special promotions or items .
Here are a few of the perks this year : Perhaps the greatest pool of perks for veterans are being offered by restaurants and other food vendors .
Chains like Buffalo Wild Wings , Chili 's , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steakhouse , Denny 's , California Pizza Kitchen , McDonald 's , Red Robin , Wendy 's and Applebee 's are just some of the restaurants offering free or discounted meals to veterans to celebrate the holiday .
Starbucks , 7-Eleven , Krispy Kreme and Dunkin Donuts are also thanking service members with free coffee or donuts .
Some offers vary and may not be available at all restaurants or locations .
A number of retail outlets also wish to honor veterans on Wednesday with promotions and discounts .
Among the stores saluting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Walgreens , Big Lots , Cabela 's , Enterprise Car Sales , Home Depot , Office Depot , Staples and Target .
Great Clips and Sport Clips are also offering free haircuts for veterans and service members .
As it does each year , the National Park Service is offering free admission to all visitors to honor Veterans Day .
`` Many national parks have direct connections to the American military -- there are dozens of battlefields , military parks and historic sites that commemorate and honor the service of veterans , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` In addition , every national park is part of our collective identity that defines who we are and where we came from as a nation .
They are tactile reminders of the values , the ideals , and the freedoms that our veterans protect . ''
Nationwide , there are more than 400 national parks that cover more than 80 million acres -- including iconic Yellowstone in Wyoming , Yosemite in Northern California and the Grand Canyon in Arizona .
The most popular parks in the United States last year were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Grand Canyon , Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado , Zion National Park in Utah and Yosemite , according to the NPS .
In Washington , D.C. all government offices will be closed Wednesday for Veterans Day .
Many of the deals noted above require proof of service , such as a military ID , discharge papers , VA card and a veteran organization membership card .
Dressing in uniform is also accepted as ID at some locations .

The Port Authority commemorates Veterans Day with a large American flag at the Oculus Transportation Hub at the World Trade Center in New York City. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Restaurants, retailers and public parks in the United States are honoring veterans and active-duty military personnel Wednesday with free items and special perks for Veterans Day. Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11 every year and honors all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Many business each year offer special promotions or items. Here are a few of the perks this year: Advertisement
Free food
Perhaps the greatest pool of perks for veterans are being offered by restaurants and other food vendors.
Chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Chili's, Golden Corral, Cracker Barrel, Outback Steakhouse, Denny's, California Pizza Kitchen, McDonald's, Red Robin, Wendy's and Applebee's are just some of the restaurants offering free or discounted meals to veterans to celebrate the holiday.
Starbucks, 7-Eleven, Krispy Kreme and Dunkin Donuts are also thanking service members with free coffee or donuts.
Some offers vary and may not be available at all restaurants or locations.
Retail
A number of retail outlets also wish to honor veterans on Wednesday with promotions and discounts.
Among the stores saluting service members are Bed Bath & Beyond, Walgreens, Big Lots, Cabela's, Enterprise Car Sales, Home Depot, Office Depot, Staples and Target.
Advertisement
Great Clips and Sport Clips are also offering free haircuts for veterans and service members.
National parks
As it does each year, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all visitors to honor Veterans Day.
"Many national parks have direct connections to the American military -- there are dozens of battlefields, military parks and historic sites that commemorate and honor the service of veterans," the agency said in a statement.
"In addition, every national park is part of our collective identity that defines who we are and where we came from as a nation. They are tactile reminders of the values, the ideals, and the freedoms that our veterans protect."
Nationwide, there are more than 400 national parks that cover more than 80 million acres -- including iconic Yellowstone in Wyoming, Yosemite in Northern California and the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
The most popular parks in the United States last year were Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee, the Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, Zion National Park in Utah and Yosemite, according to the NPS.
In Washington, D.C. all government offices will be closed Wednesday for Veterans Day.
Many of the deals noted above require proof of service, such as a military ID, discharge papers, VA card and a veteran organization membership card. Dressing in uniform is also accepted as ID at some locations.


upi--2020-11-11--Anna Camp, Adam Pally to star in 'Creepshow' holiday special

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Anna Camp and Adam Pally are set to star in a Creepshow holiday special @ @ @ @ @ on the horror streaming Shudder .
`` Get ready to be totally creeped out !
@ @ @ @ @ Tuesday .
The hour-long episode , `` Shapeshifters Anonymous , '' was written and directed @ @ @ @ @ .
It is based on a short story by J.A .
Konrath .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ and well in true Creepshow fashion , '' Nicotero said in a press release Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ look at the holidays and Santa Claus with an outrageous ensemble cast , a myriad @ @ @ @ @ few thrills and chills should n't be missed . ''
Season 2 of the anthology @ @ @ @ @ in Atlanta now .
The six new episodes are expected to premiere exclusively on Shudder @ @ @ @ @ follows a 1982 film of the same name written by Stephen King and directed by @ @ @ @

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Anna Camp will be seen next month in a "Creepshow" holiday special. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Anna Camp and Adam Pally are set to star in a Creepshow holiday special that will premiere Dec. 18 on the horror streaming Shudder. "Get ready to be totally creeped out!!!" Camp tweeted Tuesday. Advertisement
The hour-long episode, "Shapeshifters Anonymous," was written and directed by Creepshow show-runner Greg Nicotero.
It is based on a short story by J.A. Konrath.
"The Spirit of Christmas is alive and well in true Creepshow fashion," Nicotero said in a press release Tuesday. "Reimagining how we look at the holidays and Santa Claus with an outrageous ensemble cast, a myriad of creepy crawlies and a few thrills and chills shouldn't be missed."
Season 2 of the anthology series Creepshow is in production in Atlanta now. The six new episodes are expected to premiere exclusively on Shudder next year.
Season 1 debuted in 2019.
The show follows a 1982 film of the same name written by Stephen King and directed by George A. Romero.


upi--2020-11-11--Flying taxi takes off over Seoul in demonstration flight

SEOUL , Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- South Korea offered a glimpse of a science-fiction future on Wednesday with a demonstration flight of a two-seat drone taxi in Seoul , as the government outlined ambitious plans to commercialize urban air travel by 2025 .
At an event held next to the Han River near Yeouido , a finance and banking district in the heart of Seoul , a two-seat drone produced by Chinese manufacturer EHang buzzed quietly overhead for about seven minutes at an altitude of over 150 feet .
The eVTOL -- electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Vehicle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pounds and can reach speeds up to 80 mph , was loaded with heavy sacks of rice instead of passengers for the flight .
The demonstration was hosted by the Seoul city government and South Korea 's Ministry of Land , Infrastructure and Transport , which is developing a `` K-drone '' air- traffic management system as it plans for a sky that will soon be filled with everything from taxis to delivery drones .
`` We are very happy to introduce drone taxi , the future transportation system , in Seoul for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Seo Jeong-hyup , acting mayor of Seoul .
`` The city government will do its best to ensure that the human dream of flying in the sky is safely settled as a reality for Seoul citizens and to support the future industry of Korea . ''
The event also featured demonstrations of several smaller unmanned package-delivery drones .
MOLIT Vice Minister Son Myung-soo said in a statement the government has created a comprehensive urban air mobility roadmap `` to achieve commercialization by 2025 without any disruptions through collaboration with industry , academia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Son , aerial drones will slash travel times on trips within the Seoul urban area by up to 70 % .
A journey from Yeouido to Incheon International Airport will take less than 20 minutes , as opposed to over an hour by car .
MOLIT projects that a drone taxi fare for the 30-mile trip would be nearly $ 100 , more than twice the cost of a taxi ride .
However , as the market grows and autonomous flight systems are increasingly adopted , the fare could drop to less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drones will play a key role in fighting traffic congestion in dense urban areas and are environmentally friendly , said Seo Jeong-seok , deputy director of the drone transport division at MOLIT , a department that was created last year .
`` Urban air mobility will be good for decarbonizing the economy , '' he said .
`` South Korea is aiming for a complete decarbonization of its transport systems by 2040-2050 . ''
Flying vehicles are also expected to be a big business globally in the coming decades : Last year , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for autonomous urban aircraft could reach $ 1.5 trillion by 2040 .
South Korea 's MOLIT projects the country 's own market to be worth $ 11.6 billion by 2040 , with the industry creating 160,000 jobs .
South Korea is lagging behind drone aircraft developers in Europe and the United States , however .
Uber is planning to launch its aerial ride-sharing service , UberAir , in Dallas , Los Angeles and Melbourne , Australia , in 2023 .
But Korean manufacturers are quickly crowding into the market .
On Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scale models of their own eVTOL drone aircraft under development .
Hanwha is aiming for a 2023 prototype release and a 2025 commercial rollout for its five-seat drone , called Butterfly .
Hyundai also showed off a five-seat vehicle , which it is developing in a partnership in Uber and is targeting for mass production in 2028 along with other flying cars .
In the meantime , Seo said that one of the key challenges for the industry will simply be getting future passengers comfortable with the idea of soaring over congested cities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makers around the globe need to work together to gain high social acceptance for the vehicles , '' he said .

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A drone taxi flew over Seoul in a demonstration on Wednesday, as the South Korean government outlined ambitious plans to commercialize flying drone taxis by 2025. Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI
SEOUL, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- South Korea offered a glimpse of a science-fiction future on Wednesday with a demonstration flight of a two-seat drone taxi in Seoul, as the government outlined ambitious plans to commercialize urban air travel by 2025. At an event held next to the Han River near Yeouido, a finance and banking district in the heart of Seoul, a two-seat drone produced by Chinese manufacturer EHang buzzed quietly overhead for about seven minutes at an altitude of over 150 feet. Advertisement
The eVTOL -- electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing Vehicle -- which carries a payload of 485 pounds and can reach speeds up to 80 mph, was loaded with heavy sacks of rice instead of passengers for the flight.
The demonstration was hosted by the Seoul city government and South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, which is developing a "K-drone" air- traffic management system as it plans for a sky that will soon be filled with everything from taxis to delivery drones.
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"We are very happy to introduce drone taxi, the future transportation system, in Seoul for the first time in Korea," said Seo Jeong-hyup, acting mayor of Seoul. "The city government will do its best to ensure that the human dream of flying in the sky is safely settled as a reality for Seoul citizens and to support the future industry of Korea."
The event also featured demonstrations of several smaller unmanned package-delivery drones.
MOLIT Vice Minister Son Myung-soo said in a statement the government has created a comprehensive urban air mobility roadmap "to achieve commercialization by 2025 without any disruptions through collaboration with industry, academia and research institutes."
According to Son, aerial drones will slash travel times on trips within the Seoul urban area by up to 70%. A journey from Yeouido to Incheon International Airport will take less than 20 minutes, as opposed to over an hour by car.
MOLIT projects that a drone taxi fare for the 30-mile trip would be nearly $100, more than twice the cost of a taxi ride. However, as the market grows and autonomous flight systems are increasingly adopted, the fare could drop to less than $20, the ministry said.
Drones will play a key role in fighting traffic congestion in dense urban areas and are environmentally friendly, said Seo Jeong-seok, deputy director of the drone transport division at MOLIT, a department that was created last year.
Advertisement
"Urban air mobility will be good for decarbonizing the economy," he said. "South Korea is aiming for a complete decarbonization of its transport systems by 2040-2050."
Flying vehicles are also expected to be a big business globally in the coming decades: Last year, Morgan Stanley projected that the global market for autonomous urban aircraft could reach $1.5 trillion by 2040.
South Korea's MOLIT projects the country's own market to be worth $11.6 billion by 2040, with the industry creating 160,000 jobs.
South Korea is lagging behind drone aircraft developers in Europe and the United States, however. Uber is planning to launch its aerial ride-sharing service, UberAir, in Dallas, Los Angeles and Melbourne, Australia, in 2023.
But Korean manufacturers are quickly crowding into the market. On Wednesday, Hyundai Motors and Hanwha Systems showed off scale models of their own eVTOL drone aircraft under development.
Hanwha is aiming for a 2023 prototype release and a 2025 commercial rollout for its five-seat drone, called Butterfly. Hyundai also showed off a five-seat vehicle, which it is developing in a partnership in Uber and is targeting for mass production in 2028 along with other flying cars.
In the meantime, Seo said that one of the key challenges for the industry will simply be getting future passengers comfortable with the idea of soaring over congested cities in flying drones.
Advertisement
"All drone makers around the globe need to work together to gain high social acceptance for the vehicles," he said.


upi--2020-11-11--Rupert Grint makes Instagram debut; shares photo of infant daughter

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Harry Potter alum and Servant star Rupert Grint has joined Instagram and his first @ @ @ @ @ him with his infant daughter .
`` Hey Instagram ... .only 10 years late , @ @ @ @ @ Grint on the Gram !
Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint .
@ @ @ @ @ '' Grint , 32 , wrote Tuesday in a post that has already gotten more @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The message accompanied a photo of Grint holding his baby girl , who @ @ @ @ @ camera and wearing a pink sweater .
Grint announced in May that his longtime girlfriend @ @ @ @ @ , had given birth to their first child .
`` Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome @ @ @ @ @ birth of their baby girl , '' the stars ' representative said at the time @ @ @ @ @ ask that you respect their privacy at this very special time . ''

Rupert Grint shared a photo of his infant daughter in his first Instagram post. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Harry Potter alum and Servant star Rupert Grint has joined Instagram and his first post includes a photo of him with his infant daughter. "Hey Instagram....only 10 years late, but here I am. Grint on the Gram! Here to introduce you all to Wednesday G. Grint. Stay safe, Rupert," Grint, 32, wrote Tuesday in a post that has already gotten more than 1.8 million "likes." Advertisement
The message accompanied a photo of Grint holding his baby girl, who is facing away from the camera and wearing a pink sweater.
Grint announced in May that his longtime girlfriend, 28-year-old actress Georgia Groome, had given birth to their first child.
"Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome are delighted to confirm the birth of their baby girl," the stars' representative said at the time. "We would please ask that you respect their privacy at this very special time."
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upi--2020-11-11--NFL reports largest in-season COVID-19 surge with 56 positives

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Fifty-six NFL team employees -- 15 players and 41 staff members -- tested positive for COVID-19 from Nov. 1 to Saturday , more than twice the number of cases reported at any other time this season .
The league and players union reported the latest test results on Tuesday .
A previous league-high of 26 positive cases was reported from Sept. 27 to Oct. 3 .
That surge in cases included the Tennessee Titans COVID-19 outbreak , which kept the team off the field for more than two weeks , included two dozen positive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several teams .
NFL officials and the union have since strengthened safety measures within the league 's COVID-19 protocol .
Players and staff members who test positive must be isolated and are not permitted access to team facilities or to have direct contact with players or personnel .
Individual team medical staffs also remain in communication with those who test positive to monitor their symptoms .
NFL teams administered a total of 42,978 COVID-19 tests to 7,922 players and personnel as part of the latest round of tests .
The league has now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players and 140 staff members -- as part of its monitoring testing period from Aug. 1 to Saturday .
About 600,000 tests have been administered to players and staff members as part of the same time period .
NFL team owners on Tuesday also approved a contingency plan to expand the league 's playoff field from 14 to 16 teams if any games are canceled because of COVID-19 .
The NFL has yet to cancel a game in 2020 due to COVID-19 , but has rescheduled more 14 matchups due to positive COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

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Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Vance McDonald (89) on Monday became one of the latest NFL players to test positive for COVID-19 as the league has reported a spike in cases. File Photo by David Tulis/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Fifty-six NFL team employees -- 15 players and 41 staff members -- tested positive for COVID-19 from Nov. 1 to Saturday, more than twice the number of cases reported at any other time this season. The league and players union reported the latest test results on Tuesday. A previous league-high of 26 positive cases was reported from Sept. 27 to Oct. 3. That surge in cases included the Tennessee Titans COVID-19 outbreak, which kept the team off the field for more than two weeks, included two dozen positive cases and altered the NFL schedule for several teams. Advertisement
NFL officials and the union have since strengthened safety measures within the league's COVID-19 protocol.
Players and staff members who test positive must be isolated and are not permitted access to team facilities or to have direct contact with players or personnel. Individual team medical staffs also remain in communication with those who test positive to monitor their symptoms.
NFL teams administered a total of 42,978 COVID-19 tests to 7,922 players and personnel as part of the latest round of tests. The league has now reported 218 confirmed positive cases -- 78 players and 140 staff members -- as part of its monitoring testing period from Aug. 1 to Saturday.
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About 600,000 tests have been administered to players and staff members as part of the same time period.
NFL team owners on Tuesday also approved a contingency plan to expand the league's playoff field from 14 to 16 teams if any games are canceled because of COVID-19.
The NFL has yet to cancel a game in 2020 due to COVID-19, but has rescheduled more 14 matchups due to positive COVID-19 cases since the start of the season.
This week in the National Football League


upi--2020-11-11--Gallup: Fewer willing to isolate and distance, but more worry about COVID-19

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Fewer than half of Americans are receptive to the idea of staying inside their homes for a prolonged period of time if a serious COVID-19 outbreak led experts to recommend it , according to a Gallup survey Wednesday .
The survey asked respondents if they would be willing to remain home for a month if health officials said it was necessary to contain a `` serious '' outbreak in their community .
Just 49 % said they would be `` very likely '' to do so .
The new share is a significant decline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April that they 'd be very likely to stay home for a month , if such a scenario were advised by health officials .
Eighteen percent said they would be `` somewhat likely '' to stay home for a month and 33 % said staying home for that long would be `` very unlikely '' or `` somewhat unlikely . ''
Gallup polled almost 3,000 adults in late October for the survey , as coronavirus cases began to rise again nationwide .
The United States has added more than 100,000 new cases for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the middle of a new surge that experts believe is rooted in spreading factors associated with colder weather and flu season .
Gallup said the decline between April and now was mainly influenced by politics -- with Democrats remaining vigilant and many Republicans abandoning caution .
`` Most of the decline in Americans ' willingness to follow shelter-in-place advice is due to a sharp drop among Republicans -- falling to 40 % in Gallup 's latest polling , from 74 % in the spring , '' Gallup wrote .
`` Democrats ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high , at 87 % today versus 91 % in March and April . ''
Wednesday 's survey also found that concern in the United States about the coronavirus outbreak is ticking back up , but fewer Americans are as vigilant about distancing than they were in the spring .
When asked if they properly `` isolated '' with persons outside their homes recently , just 38 % said they `` completely '' or `` mostly '' isolated .
About a quarter said they `` partially '' isolated and 35 % said they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When asked if the crisis is getting better or worse in the United States , 61 % said it 's getting worse , an increase from about 40 % in the April survey .
Just 23 % said it 's getting better .
Gallup polled nearly 3,000 U.S. adults nationwide for the survey , which has a margin of error of 3 points .

People gather, some without face masks, in Washington Square Park in New York City on Friday at a "Donald Trump is Over" party to celebrate former Vice President Joe Biden. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Fewer than half of Americans are receptive to the idea of staying inside their homes for a prolonged period of time if a serious COVID-19 outbreak led experts to recommend it, according to a Gallup survey Wednesday. The survey asked respondents if they would be willing to remain home for a month if health officials said it was necessary to contain a "serious" outbreak in their community. Just 49% said they would be "very likely" to do so. Advertisement
The new share is a significant decline from the 67% who said in April that they'd be very likely to stay home for a month, if such a scenario were advised by health officials.
Eighteen percent said they would be "somewhat likely" to stay home for a month and 33% said staying home for that long would be "very unlikely" or "somewhat unlikely."
Gallup polled almost 3,000 adults in late October for the survey, as coronavirus cases began to rise again nationwide. The United States has added more than 100,000 new cases for several days in a row and is in the middle of a new surge that experts believe is rooted in spreading factors associated with colder weather and flu season.
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Gallup said the decline between April and now was mainly influenced by politics -- with Democrats remaining vigilant and many Republicans abandoning caution.
"Most of the decline in Americans' willingness to follow shelter-in-place advice is due to a sharp drop among Republicans -- falling to 40% in Gallup's latest polling, from 74% in the spring," Gallup wrote. "Democrats' willingness to stay at home has remained high, at 87% today versus 91% in March and April."
Wednesday's survey also found that concern in the United States about the coronavirus outbreak is ticking back up, but fewer Americans are as vigilant about distancing than they were in the spring.
When asked if they properly "isolated" with persons outside their homes recently, just 38% said they "completely" or "mostly" isolated. About a quarter said they "partially" isolated and 35% said they isolated a little or not at all.
When asked if the crisis is getting better or worse in the United States, 61% said it's getting worse, an increase from about 40% in the April survey. Just 23% said it's getting better.
Gallup polled nearly 3,000 U.S. adults nationwide for the survey, which has a margin of error of 3 points.


upi--2020-11-11--Dwayne Johnson producing 'Scorpion King' reboot

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Dwayne Johnson has announced he is working on a reboot of his 2002 Mummy spin-off , The Scorpion King .
`` The Scorpion King was my very first role ever on the silver screen and I 'm honored and excited to reimagine and deliver this cool mythology to a whole new generation , '' Johnson said in a statement , announcing he will produce the project with his partner Dany Garcia .
`` I would n't have had the career I 'm lucky enough to have had it not been for The Scorpion King @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Seven Bucks Productions can help create those same opportunities for other hard working actors today , '' Johnson added .
`` I believe Jonathan Herman will put in the hard work to deliver a fantastic script for our global audience . ''
`` The original Scorpion King was a crucial catalyst helping to catapult us into the world of film , '' said Garcia .
`` To be able to now produce the next iteration as part of our Seven Bucks Productions slate is a special , full-circle moment , a testament to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build for our audience and ultimately a humble reminder of the timeless value of authentic storytelling . ''
Johnson is not expected to reprise his title role in the film , but no lead actor has been announced as his replacement yet .
The producers are also looking for a director for the Universal Pictures project .
Johnson -- who has starred in Hobbs & Shaw , Jumanji , Rampage , Central Intelligence and Moana -- will soon be seen in the family film , Jungle Cruise .

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Dwayne Johnson has announced he is working on a reboot of "The Scorpion King." File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Dwayne Johnson has announced he is working on a reboot of his 2002 Mummy spin-off, The Scorpion King. "The Scorpion King was my very first role ever on the silver screen and I'm honored and excited to reimagine and deliver this cool mythology to a whole new generation," Johnson said in a statement, announcing he will produce the project with his partner Dany Garcia. Advertisement
"I wouldn't have had the career I'm lucky enough to have had it not been for The Scorpion King and I'm thrilled that we at Seven Bucks Productions can help create those same opportunities for other hard working actors today," Johnson added. "I believe Jonathan Herman will put in the hard work to deliver a fantastic script for our global audience."
Herman penned 2015's Straight Outta Compton.
"The original Scorpion King was a crucial catalyst helping to catapult us into the world of film," said Garcia. "To be able to now produce the next iteration as part of our Seven Bucks Productions slate is a special, full-circle moment, a testament to what we have been fortunate enough to build for our audience and ultimately a humble reminder of the timeless value of authentic storytelling."
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Johnson is not expected to reprise his title role in the film, but no lead actor has been announced as his replacement yet.
The producers are also looking for a director for the Universal Pictures project.
Johnson -- who has starred in Hobbs & Shaw, Jumanji, Rampage, Central Intelligence and Moana -- will soon be seen in the family film, Jungle Cruise.
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson turns 50: a look back
World Wrestling Federation (WWF) star Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson poses with his wax image at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in New York City on April 10, 2002. Earlier that year, the wrestler starred in his first acting role in "The Scorpion King." Photo by Ezio Petersen/UPI | License Photo


upi--2020-11-11--All opposition lawmakers resign in Hong Kong to protest Chinese law

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- All of Hong Kong 's pro-democracy lawmakers resigned together Wednesday to protest a new law by China that allows for the removal of `` unpatriotic '' sitting legislators .
Fifteen lawmakers in Hong Kong 's Legislative Council announced that they will resign after four of their colleagues were removed under the new measure , which was passed by the National People 's Congress Standing Committee , China 's top legislative body .
The resolution stipulates that Hong Kong legislators will immediately lose their positions for infractions such as promoting independence and engaging in `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security .
`` We announce we will resign from our positions as our colleagues are being disqualified by the central government 's ruthless move , '' Democratic Party Chairman Wu Chi-wai told reporters .
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam immediately applied the new law to unseat pro-democracy legislators Alvin Yeung , Kwok Ka-ki , Dennis Kwok and Kenneth Leung .
The four were previously barred from running for re-election .
Wu said the new law effectively eliminates `` separation of powers '' under Hong Kong 's Basic Law , established in 1997 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Beijing .
The Basic Law enshrines the concept of `` one country , two systems , '' under which the city is guaranteed rights including freedom of assembly and freedom of speech not available in mainland China .
`` All the power will be centralized in the chief executive -- a puppet of the central government , '' Wu said .
`` So today is the end of 'one country , two systems . '
'' The mass resignation left Hong Kong 's 70-seat Legislative Council with no opposition lawmakers .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ series of steps by China to intervene in Hong Kong affairs after a wave of pro-democracy protests last year .
Beijing has since imposed a wide-ranging national security law and has allowed the local government to delay local elections for a year .

More than a dozen pro-democracy lawmakers announce their resignations from the Legislative Council during a news conference in Hong Kong Wednesday. Photo by Jerome Favre/EPA-EFE
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- All of Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers resigned together Wednesday to protest a new law by China that allows for the removal of "unpatriotic" sitting legislators. Fifteen lawmakers in Hong Kong's Legislative Council announced that they will resign after four of their colleagues were removed under the new measure, which was passed by the National People's Congress Standing Committee, China's top legislative body. Advertisement
The resolution stipulates that Hong Kong legislators will immediately lose their positions for infractions such as promoting independence and engaging in "unpatriotic" acts considered to threaten national security.
"We announce we will resign from our positions as our colleagues are being disqualified by the central government's ruthless move," Democratic Party Chairman Wu Chi-wai told reporters.
Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam immediately applied the new law to unseat pro-democracy legislators Alvin Yeung, Kwok Ka-ki, Dennis Kwok and Kenneth Leung.
The four were previously barred from running for re-election.
Wu said the new law effectively eliminates "separation of powers" under Hong Kong's Basic Law, established in 1997 after Britain relinquished control of the city to Beijing.
The Basic Law enshrines the concept of "one country, two systems," under which the city is guaranteed rights including freedom of assembly and freedom of speech not available in mainland China.
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"All the power will be centralized in the chief executive -- a puppet of the central government," Wu said. "So today is the end of 'one country, two systems.'"
The mass resignation left Hong Kong's 70-seat Legislative Council with no opposition lawmakers.
The new law is the latest in a series of steps by China to intervene in Hong Kong affairs after a wave of pro-democracy protests last year. Beijing has since imposed a wide-ranging national security law and has allowed the local government to delay local elections for a year.


upi--2020-11-11--Google Doodle honors U.S. veterans

Google Doodle honors U.S. veterans

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Google released a new Doodle Wednesday , marking the U.S. federal holiday , Veterans Day .
Texas-based , Air Force veteran and guest artist Jenn Hassin crafted the artwork , which features red and white stripes across two corners and a blue background .
The word `` Google '' is spelled out in brownish grey cursive letters in the middle with a white star replacing the second `` O . ''
`` For the composition , I drew from patriotism and a heavy lean to service , '' Hassin said in a statement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ gratitude to the many patriots that help celebrate our nation 's veterans .
All other colors are military uniform hues that give tribute to those who have worn and are wearing the uniform , '' she added .
`` I relied heavily on the material .
Ten different military uniforms donated from veterans ranging from the Vietnam era to today were used to make the Doodle : 3 Navy , 2 Army , 2 Air Force , 2 Marine Corps , 1 Coast Guard .
All were entrusted to me with the promise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honor our nation 's military and veterans with their transformed uniforms .
The final Doodle holds hundreds of rolled up pieces of paper that are made from these once worn , but now deconstructed , military uniforms . ''
Veterans Day honors those who have served in the military .

Wednesday's Google Doodle honors U.S. veterans. Photo courtesy of Google
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Google released a new Doodle Wednesday, marking the U.S. federal holiday, Veterans Day. Texas-based, Air Force veteran and guest artist Jenn Hassin crafted the artwork, which features red and white stripes across two corners and a blue background. Advertisement
The word "Google" is spelled out in brownish grey cursive letters in the middle with a white star replacing the second "O."
"For the composition, I drew from patriotism and a heavy lean to service," Hassin said in a statement.
"The star and stripes respectfully give gratitude to the many patriots that help celebrate our nation's veterans. All other colors are military uniform hues that give tribute to those who have worn and are wearing the uniform," she added. "I relied heavily on the material. Ten different military uniforms donated from veterans ranging from the Vietnam era to today were used to make the Doodle: 3 Navy, 2 Army, 2 Air Force, 2 Marine Corps, 1 Coast Guard. All were entrusted to me with the promise that I would do my best to honor our nation's military and veterans with their transformed uniforms. The final Doodle holds hundreds of rolled up pieces of paper that are made from these once worn, but now deconstructed, military uniforms."
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Veterans Day honors those who have served in the military.


upi--2020-11-11--DeChambeau, Johnson among favorites at unique fall Masters

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- Augusta National 's tree leaves have brightened to an autumn orange , its azaleas are n't blooming and Magnolia Lane wo n't have any foot traffic , but dozens of elite golfers still will compete at this week 's Masters tournament .
The 2020 major championship starts Thursday and ends Sunday in Augusta , Ga .
It had been for April 9 to 12 before being rescheduled from spring to fall and into the 2020-2021 PGA Tour season due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Fans are not allowed to attend the event due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can tune into CBS and ESPN for 18 hours of live TV coverage during the four-day tournament .
`` This has been an unprecedented circumstance we are dealing with , '' reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods told reporters Tuesday .
`` It has been incredible to have the Green Jacket for this long , but this is not the way I wanted to have it .
`` I wanted to earn it back in April .
Earlier in the year , we did n't think we 'd have this opportunity .
We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compete . ''
The first round will begin just before 8 a.m. EST Thursday .
Despite the change in natural aesthetics and absence of an enthusiastic crowd , temperatures are expected to be in the same range as they have been when the tourney was held in the spring .
Rain is in the forecast .
Woods has five Masters Green Jackets , but he is not among the favorites to win the 2020 title .
Oddsmakers give DeChambeau the best chance to win the Green Jacket .
He never has finished inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but won the 2020 U.S. Open and tied for fourth at the 2020 PGA Championship .
The 27-year-old is No .
6 in the Official World Golf Ranking .
DeChambeau had nine Top 10 finishes during the 2019-2020 season .
He tied for 29th at the 2019 Masters .
He tied for a career-best 21st in 2017 at Augusta .
`` It 's going to be different because I 'm going to be able to hit [ the ball ] on certain lines where patrons would normally be , '' DeChambeau said Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit of an advantage .
This is a unique opportunity . ''
Johnson -- the No .
1 player in the world -- has the second-best odds to win the tournament .
He tied for second at the 2019 Masters .
He also has tied for second twice at the PGA Championship and once at the British Open .
His lone major title came at the 2016 U.S. Open .
Johnson finished tied for second in last week 's Masters tuneup tournament , the 2020 Houston Open .
World No .
2 Jon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and No .
5 Rory McIlroy also are among the top five favorites to win at Augusta .
`` This is probably my favorite event of the year , '' Thomas said .
`` It 's one of my favorite courses .
I enjoy everything about it .
I feel like I know the course so well . ''
McIlroy , a four-time major championship winner , can complete a career grand slam with a win at Augusta , as he has won each of the three other major golf titles .
McIlroy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tie for fourth place in 2015 .
Thomas tied for 12th at the 2019 Masters and has one career major title , the 2017 PGA Championship .
Rahm tied for fourth at the 2018 Masters and has yet to win a major championship .
`` I 'm feeling pretty confident , '' Rahm said .
`` Even at my last start at the Zozo Championship I hit it about as good I 've hit it from tee to green .
I 'm happy where I 'm at . ''
Koepka , Xander Schauffele @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hideki Matsuyama , Patrick Reed , Tony Finau , Tyrrell Hatton also are among the 10 favorites to win the 2020 Masters .
Watson won the 2012 and 2014 Masters .
Reed won in 2018 .
Koepka and Schauffele tied Johnson for second place in 2019 .
Sergio Garcia , the 2017 Masters champion , withdrew from the tournament Monday after he tested positive for COVID-19 .
Woods , ranked No .
33 in the world , was the last player to win consecutive titles at Augusta -- in 2001 and 2002 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Masters title defense in 2006 .
The 15-time major championship winner is not listed among the Top 10 favorites by the majority of sports betting websites .
On Thursday , DeChambeau will tee off alongside Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen at 7:33 a.m. EST at the No .
10 hole .
Thomas and Kopeka will tee off with Matthew Fitzpatrick at 11:49 a.m. at the No .
1 hole .
Johnson , McIlroy and Cantlay will tee off at noon at No .
1 .
Woods , Shane Lowry and Andy Ogletree will tee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
10 .
The winner of the 2020 Masters is expected to receive just over $ 2 million in prize money .
How to watch -- All times Eastern Thursday -- First round : Live stream from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App ; TV coverage from 1 to 5:30 p.m. on ESPN Friday -- Second round : Live stream from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App ; TV coverage from 1 to 5:30 p.m. on ESPN Saturday -- Third round : Live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App ; TV coverage from 1 to 5 p.m. on CBS Sunday -- Fourth round : Live stream from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App ; TV coverage from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on CBS

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Five-time Masters champion Tiger Woods (L) practiced with 2020 tournament favorite Bryson DeChambeau (R) on Tuesday at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Augusta National's tree leaves have brightened to an autumn orange, its azaleas aren't blooming and Magnolia Lane won't have any foot traffic, but dozens of elite golfers still will compete at this week's Masters tournament. The 2020 major championship starts Thursday and ends Sunday in Augusta, Ga. It had been for April 9 to 12 before being rescheduled from spring to fall and into the 2020-2021 PGA Tour season due to the coronavirus pandemic. Advertisement
Fans are not allowed to attend the event due to pandemic safety precautions. Instead, they can tune into CBS and ESPN for 18 hours of live TV coverage during the four-day tournament.
"This has been an unprecedented circumstance we are dealing with," reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods told reporters Tuesday. "It has been incredible to have the Green Jacket for this long, but this is not the way I wanted to have it.
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"I wanted to earn it back in April. Earlier in the year, we didn't think we'd have this opportunity. We are all very fortunate to be able to compete."
The first round will begin just before 8 a.m. EST Thursday.
Despite the change in natural aesthetics and absence of an enthusiastic crowd, temperatures are expected to be in the same range as they have been when the tourney was held in the spring. Rain is in the forecast.
Woods has five Masters Green Jackets, but he is not among the favorites to win the 2020 title.
DeChambeau, Johnson favored
Oddsmakers give DeChambeau the best chance to win the Green Jacket. He never has finished inside the Top 20 at the Masters, but won the 2020 U.S. Open and tied for fourth at the 2020 PGA Championship.
The 27-year-old is No. 6 in the Official World Golf Ranking. DeChambeau had nine Top 10 finishes during the 2019-2020 season. He tied for 29th at the 2019 Masters. He tied for a career-best 21st in 2017 at Augusta.
"It's going to be different because I'm going to be able to hit [the ball] on certain lines where patrons would normally be," DeChambeau said Tuesday. "It provides me a little bit of an advantage. This is a unique opportunity."
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Johnson -- the No. 1 player in the world -- has the second-best odds to win the tournament. He tied for second at the 2019 Masters. He also has tied for second twice at the PGA Championship and once at the British Open.
His lone major title came at the 2016 U.S. Open. Johnson finished tied for second in last week's Masters tuneup tournament, the 2020 Houston Open.
World No. 2 Jon Rahm, No. 3 Justin Thomas and No. 5 Rory McIlroy also are among the top five favorites to win at Augusta.
"This is probably my favorite event of the year," Thomas said. "It's one of my favorite courses. I enjoy everything about it. I feel like I know the course so well."
McIlroy, a four-time major championship winner, can complete a career grand slam with a win at Augusta, as he has won each of the three other major golf titles.
McIlroy's best finish at Augusta was a tie for fourth place in 2015. Thomas tied for 12th at the 2019 Masters and has one career major title, the 2017 PGA Championship.
Rahm tied for fourth at the 2018 Masters and has yet to win a major championship.
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"I'm feeling pretty confident," Rahm said. "Even at my last start at the Zozo Championship I hit it about as good I've hit it from tee to green. I'm happy where I'm at."
Koepka, Xander Schauffele, Patrick Cantlay, Bubba Watson, Hideki Matsuyama, Patrick Reed, Tony Finau, Tyrrell Hatton also are among the 10 favorites to win the 2020 Masters.
Watson won the 2012 and 2014 Masters. Reed won in 2018. Koepka and Schauffele tied Johnson for second place in 2019.
Sergio Garcia, the 2017 Masters champion, withdrew from the tournament Monday after he tested positive for COVID-19.
Woods, ranked No. 33 in the world, was the last player to win consecutive titles at Augusta -- in 2001 and 2002. He tied for third in his last Masters title defense in 2006. The 15-time major championship winner is not listed among the Top 10 favorites by the majority of sports betting websites.
On Thursday, DeChambeau will tee off alongside Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen at 7:33 a.m. EST at the No. 10 hole. Thomas and Kopeka will tee off with Matthew Fitzpatrick at 11:49 a.m. at the No. 1 hole. Johnson, McIlroy and Cantlay will tee off at noon at No. 1.
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Woods, Shane Lowry and Andy Ogletree will tee off at 7:55 a.m. EST at No. 10.
The winner of the 2020 Masters is expected to receive just over $2 million in prize money.
How to watch -- All times Eastern
Thursday -- First round: Live stream from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App; TV coverage from 1 to 5:30 p.m. on ESPN
Friday -- Second round: Live stream from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App; TV coverage from 1 to 5:30 p.m. on ESPN
Saturday -- Third round: Live stream from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App; TV coverage from 1 to 5 p.m. on CBS
Sunday -- Fourth round: Live stream from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports App; TV coverage from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on CBS
Moments from the 2020 Masters Tournament


upi--2020-11-11--Near hurricane strength, Tropical Storm Eta expected to swipe Florida again

Nov. 11 ( UPI ) -- The National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane watch for parts of Florida 's Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Eta makes a comeback after passing over the southern tip last weekend .
The NHC said in its 4 a.m. EST advisory that Eta was located 175 miles southwest of Fort Myers , Fla. , and 230 miles southwest of Tampa .
It had maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and was moving north at 12 mph .
Eta would strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane once sustained wind speeds reach 74 mph .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hurricane watch has been issued for the west coast of Florida from Anna Maria Island to Yankeetown .
`` On the forecast track the center of Eta will move closer to but offshore of the southwest coast of Florida today , approach the west-central coast of Florida Wednesday night , and move inland over the northern portion of the Florida Peninsula on Thursday '' the NHC said in its advisory .
`` Eta is expected to move northeastward into the western Atlantic late Thursday or early Friday .
`` Eta is expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as it approaches the west coast of Florida , with rapid weakening expected after landfall on Thursday . ''
Eta 's projected track has shifted to the east and is now expected to take the storm across northern and central Florida , from about Tampa on the west and Jacksonville on the east before it heads back out into the Atlantic Ocean .
Meteorologists predict that the biggest threat Eta will pose to the United States will be from heavy rainfall and potential flooding .
Eta , the 28th named storm of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the basin .
Subtropical Storm Theta formed over the central Atlantic late Monday evening and set a new record as the 29th named storm of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season , topping the record set in 2005 .

Tropical Storm Eta was expected to remain offshore over the next few days but bring life-threatening surf and rip currents to the southeastern coast of the United States. Photo courtesy of NOAA
Nov. 11 (UPI) -- After making its second landfall in Florida overnight, Tropical Storm Eta began moving offshore, where it's expected to skirt along the East Coast before heading out to sea. In its 10 p.m. EST advisory, the National Hurricane Center said the center of the storm was located about 65 miles east-southeast of Charleston, S.C., and was moving northeast at 17 mph. It had maximum sustained winds of 45. Advertisement
Eta is likely to remain a tropical storm over the next few days as it picks up speed, but could intensify into a non-tropical cyclone over the weekend.
"On the forecast track, Eta is expected to accelerate over the western Atlantic and move parallel to, but offshore of the Carolinas tonight and early Friday before heading well east of the Mid-Atlantic coast by late Friday," the NHC said in an earlier update.
There were no coastal watches or warnings in place throughout the region.
Eta was expected to bring an additional 1 inch to 3 inches of rain to the Florida peninsula Thursday, with localized flooding in some areas. The storm was also forecast to bring swells along the southeastern coast, including life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.