upi--2020-06-06--Tropical Storm Cristobal, gaining strength, closes in on Gulf Coast

June 5 ( UPI ) -- After Cristobal regained tropical storm status on Friday , the storm continued to strengthen over warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday .
The storm has its sights set on the Gulf coast of the United States , where tropical storm and storm surge warnings are in effect .
A plume of tropical moisture associated with Cristobal was fueling showers along portions of the Gulf coast , including along Interstate 10 corridor in the Florida Panhandle and along the western coast of the Sunshine State , on Saturday morning .
Cristobal 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach areas farther west along the central Gulf Coast around New Orleans Saturday morning .
Rain is expected to overspread most of the central and northern Gulf Coast throughout the day on Saturday .
By Saturday evening , the storm was packing 50-mph sustained winds and was traveling north at 12 mph , with the center located near latitude 25.7 north , longitude 90.2 west in the Gulf of Mexico , according to the National Hurricane Center 's 7 p.m. update.nThe center of the storm is forecast to move northward over the central @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be near the northern Gulf of Mexico coast on Sunday .
Most of this past week , Cristobal was a tropical depression crawling across southern Mexico and unloading feet of rain in the process .
The worst conditions are skewed to the eastern side of the storm due to winds high in the atmosphere over the Gulf of Mexico .
AccuWeather forecasters expect the system to strengthen further over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico before striking the central Gulf Coast late Sunday into early Monday .
The central Louisiana coastline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ahead of the storm , Louisiana Gov .
John Bel Edwards requested President Donald Trump declare a pre-landfall emergency for the state effective Friday .
`` We are confident that there will be widespread , heavy rainfall and coastal flooding , '' Edwards said in a press release .
`` I anticipate the need for emergency protective measures , evacuations and sheltering for the high-risk areas ... At this time , due to the dangers presented by the COVID-19 pandemic , sheltering activities will need to include non-congregated settings . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the central coast of Louisiana late Sunday or Sunday evening , '' Dan Kottlowski , AccuWeather 's top hurricane expert , said .
Since the system is sprawling in size , and it 's likely to increase in size as it continues to travel over the Gulf of Mexico , impacts from this feature are expected to precede the arrival of the storm 's center by 36 hours to 48 hours , meaning places along the U.S. Gulf Coast could begin experiencing Cristobal 's outer bands well before the storm makes landfall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already moving into portions of Florida early Saturday morning , with rain expected to overspread most of the central and northern Gulf Coast throughout the day on Saturday .
At this time , AccuWeather forecasters say Cristobal is likely to make landfall in the United States as a tropical storm .
`` A combination of increased vertical wind shear and dry air wrapping around the southern and eastern periphery of the storm 's center will restrict just how strong the storm becomes , '' Kottlowski said , adding that the risk of Cristobal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be greatly limited by these two factors .
Wind shear is the increase in wind speed with height in the atmosphere .
Low wind shear can aid in tropical storm development and strengthening , but strong wind shear can cause a tropical system to weaken or limit its development .
`` However , Cristobal could have maximum-sustained winds just under hurricane force with hurricane-force-wind gusts as it makes landfall , '' Kottlowski noted .
Sustained winds of 50 mph to 60 mph are forecast with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 85 mph @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the storm makes comes ashore .
However , large spiral bands from the storm can bring strong gusts well away from the center .
Whether or not the storm makes landfall as a tropical storm or a Category 1 hurricane may matter little in terms of impact .
A Category 1 hurricane has maximum-sustained winds of 74 mph to 95 mph .
A tropical storm can produce maximum-sustained winds of up to 73 mph .
`` We do not expect the slow movement of Barry from last year and the 24 inches of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Coast , '' Kottlowski said , referring to a short-lived hurricane that struck the Gulf Coast in July 2019 and triggered widespread flooding .
Cristobal has already picked up speed while pulling away from Mexico , and should continue to move along at a decent pace through the weekend .
Even with Cristobal 's quicker pace when compared to Barry , the amount of rainfall projected with the storm can be enough to cause serious flooding problems along and east of the storm track .
A general 6 inches to 12 inches of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ StormMax of 16 inches .
Flooding could occur even in areas that have experienced a rainfall deficit for the year so far .
Portions of the central Gulf Coast are currently experiencing moderate to severe drought .
Mobile , Alabama , has picked up 21.11 inches of rainfall since the start of 2020 , about 7 inches below normal for the year to date or 76 percent of normal .
As the storm strengthens into Sunday , winds will increase throughout the Gulf of Mexico , but especially in shoreline areas from Louisiana @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the west coast of the Florida Peninsula .
`` The increasing winds will lead to an increase in coastal flooding with a building storm surge , well ahead of the center , beginning on Saturday , '' Kottlowski said .
AccuWeather is expecting a storm surge of 3 feet to 6 feet near and just east of where the center strikes along the upper Gulf coast of the United States .
`` Evacuation orders are generally issued by government officials where the storm surge is forecast to reach 3 feet or higher , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect some evacuations with this , but it is a matter of where the NHC forecasts that level of storm surge . ''
Because of Cristobal 's large size , rip currents will increase in strength and number along much of the U.S. Gulf coast this weekend .
`` Tropical-storm-force winds could extend outward to 200 miles from the center of the storm , especially on the eastern and northern sides and be reached by Sunday morning from coastal areas of the western part of the Florida Panhandle through the Louisiana coast , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the upper and eastern Gulf coast will need to take action to prepare for the arrival of tropical-storm-force winds and building storm surge from Cristobal by Sunday morning , '' he added .
The combination of heavy rain and winds that cause a storm surge might be enough to lead to some flooding in New Orleans .
The city 's levee system has been significantly upgraded since the Hurricane Katrina disaster in 2005 , but storm water pumps failed to handle a torrential downpour that brought 7 inches of rain in 6 hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the city .
Depending on exactly where the bands of heavy rain set up and linger , street flooding in the city is anticipated from Cristobal .
As Cristobal approaches the upper Gulf coast , areas near and to the east of the storm center may be at risk for tornadoes and waterspouts to develop .
Cristobal 's big span and dry air that will sweep up from the southwest could be enough to cause rotating thunderstorms to ignite , with the potential for tornadoes to touch down , from late Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tend to develop in the spiral bands that extend outward from the storm .
For ultimate safety , small craft along the Gulf coast should remain in port this weekend .
Petroleum interests may need to take precautionary measures .
Some of the rigs in the region have already been shut down due to the ongoing glut of fuel .
In contrast , due in part to the lopsided nature of the storm and the further flow of dry air into the storm this weekend , rainfall will trail off dramatically west of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ near and southwest of Houston may be limited to breezy conditions with surging temperatures and rip currents on the beaches .
Beyond this weekend , Cristobal is forecast to move inland over the lower Mississippi Valley next week .
An area of heavy rain with localized flooding is possible as the storm moves northward and evolves into a tropical rainstorm .
Problems from Cristobal could even continue as far away as the Upper Midwest in terms of flooding rain , strong wind gusts and severe thunderstorms as the tropical storm transitions further into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flooding could also have an effect on rice crop in the Mississippi Delta , especially since the crop has just emerged .
About 65 percent of the total U.S. rice crop is grown in this region , with 40 percent of the U.S. crop grown in Arkansas alone .
Hurricane season just began on Monday , and already the Atlantic has set a new record .
Cristobal became the earliest third tropical storm on record when it was named on June 2 .
The storm beat the previous record which stood from 2016 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cristobal was preceded by Arthur and Bertha , which both formed prior to the official start of the season on June 1 .
And even more threats could soon arise .
AccuWeather meteorologists began monitoring another area of showers and thunderstorms in the Atlantic for tropical development late in the week .
`` An area of low pressure could form along a frontal boundary within a region of marginally warm water and could turn into a short-lived subtropical or tropical storm system during Tuesday and Wednesday of next week a few hundred miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Kottlowski said .
A subtropical storm is a system that has both tropical and non-tropical characteristics .
AccuWeather is forecasting a busy tropical season in the Atlantic with 14 to 20 tropical storms , including seven to 11 which could strengthen further into hurricanes .
Four to six major hurricanes -- Category 3 or higher -- are predicted .

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


upi--2020-06-06--Louisiana parishes issue evacuation warnings as Cristobal approaches

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Several Louisiana parishes issued evacuation orders Saturday several tornado warnings as residents anticipated the @ @ @ @ @ , which is expected to make landfall Sunday night .
Cristobal , the third named @ @ @ @ @ hurricane season , sustained winds of 50 miles per hour Saturday night and forecasters said @ @ @ @ @ as it heads north through the Gulf of Mexico .
St. John the Baptist , @ @ @ @ @ issued evacuation orders Saturday , and in Jefferson parish , residents were bring vehicles , @ @ @ @ @ ground as the storm in case of heavy rainfall .
In central Florida , a @ @ @ @ @ seen over downtown Orlando Saturday night , just missing a group of protesters at Lake @ @ @ @ @ the area issued tornado warnings linked with the storm , all of which expired by @ @ @ @

Tropical Storm Cristobal is centered in the Gulf of Mexico and expected to make landfall Sunday. Image via CBS This Morning/ YouTube
June 6 (UPI) -- Several Louisiana parishes issued evacuation orders Saturday several tornado warnings as residents anticipated the arrival of Tropical Storm Cristobal, which is expected to make landfall Sunday night. Cristobal, the third named storm of this year's hurricane season, sustained winds of 50 miles per hour Saturday night and forecasters said it would build up strength as it heads north through the Gulf of Mexico. Advertisement
St. John the Baptist, Plaquemines and Lafourche parishes all issued evacuation orders Saturday, and in Jefferson parish, residents were bring vehicles, boats and campers to higher ground as the storm in case of heavy rainfall.
In central Florida, a tornado associated with Cristobal was seen over downtown Orlando Saturday night, just missing a group of protesters at Lake Eola.
Several counties in the area issued tornado warnings linked with the storm, all of which expired by 8:30 p.m. EDT.


upi--2020-06-06--OPEC decides to keep production cuts

OPEC decides to keep production cuts

June 6 ( UPI ) -- OPEC and its allies have agreed to extend the group 's cuts on oil production through July .
During a Saturday video-conference meeting Saudi Arabian Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said there are grounds to be `` cautiously optimistic about the future , '' but there are still economic challenges ahead for oil producers and encouraged a swift decision to stabilize oil markets and keep oil prices high .
`` Together we are stronger , together we can restore stability to oil markets and help rebuild the global economy , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9.7 million barrels per day at the beginning of May , a decision reached after oil prices collapsed in April due to the coronavirus pandemic .
That represents about 10 percent of global output in normal times .
The original plan was to begin increasing production in July , but instead have decided to continue at a reduced level of production -- this time by 9.6 million barrels per day .
The alliance will continue to review cuts on a monthly basis and have scheduled another meeting for June 18 .
Not all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quotas , and nations that have failed to sufficiently cut output were directed to enact additional cuts in July , August and September in order to compensate for non-compliance in May and June .

An oil well pumps next to a newly constructed neighborhood near Signal Hill in Long Beach, California in this April photo. OPEC agreed Saturday to continue reduced oil production to keep oil markets stable during the coronavirus pandemic. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- OPEC and its allies have agreed to extend the group's cuts on oil production through July. During a Saturday video-conference meeting Saudi Arabian Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said there are grounds to be "cautiously optimistic about the future," but there are still economic challenges ahead for oil producers and encouraged a swift decision to stabilize oil markets and keep oil prices high. Advertisement
"Together we are stronger, together we can restore stability to oil markets and help rebuild the global economy," he said.
The alliance cut oil production by 9.7 million barrels per day at the beginning of May, a decision reached after oil prices collapsed in April due to the coronavirus pandemic.
That represents about 10 percent of global output in normal times.
The original plan was to begin increasing production in July, but instead have decided to continue at a reduced level of production -- this time by 9.6 million barrels per day.
The alliance will continue to review cuts on a monthly basis and have scheduled another meeting for June 18.
Not all OPEC nations have abided by their prescribed quotas, and nations that have failed to sufficiently cut output were directed to enact additional cuts in July, August and September in order to compensate for non-compliance in May and June.
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upi--2020-06-06--German, American conservatives criticize plan to withdraw U.S. troops from Germany

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Conservative German and American leaders have criticized President Donald Trump 's proposed plan to remove about one-third of U.S. troops currently stationed in Germany .
On Friday multiple outlets quoting an anonymous senior defense official reported that Trump has ordered the Pentagon to withdraw 9,500 of the 34,500 troops permanently assigned to Germany as part of a longstanding arrangement between the two countries .
In Germany , left-leaning politicians welcomed the proposed drawdown while conservative leaders described it as a wake-up call .
`` The federal government should accept it with gratitude and promptly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soldiers with the Trump administration , '' said Dietmar Bartsch , leader of the parliamentary group of the leftwing party Die Linke .
`` It would have the collateral benefit of saving taxpayers billions , because there would not longer be a need to acquire new fighter jets . ''
Johann Wadephul , the deputy chair of the parliamentary group of Angela Merkel 's Christian Democratic Union , said the Trump administration is neglecting `` an elementary task of leadership . ''
`` Everyone profits from the alliance sticking together , only Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should pay more attention to that . ''
The plan has also met with domestic criticism .
`` This is a dangerously misguided policy .
If the United States abandons allies , withdraws our forces , and retreats within our borders , the cause of freedom-on which our nation was founded & our security depends-will be in peril , '' Rep. Liz Cheney ( D-Wyo . )
, tweeted Saturday .

Soldiers with 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, conduct close-combat attack at the Oberdachstetten Local Training Area in Germany in this 2014 photo. Conservative leaders in Germany have sharply criticized reported plans to withdraw one-third of American troops permanently stationed in the country as part of a longstanding arrangement. Photo by Luis Viegas/U.S. Army
June 6 (UPI) -- Conservative German and American leaders have criticized President Donald Trump's proposed plan to remove about one-third of U.S. troops currently stationed in Germany. On Friday multiple outlets quoting an anonymous senior defense official reported that Trump has ordered the Pentagon to withdraw 9,500 of the 34,500 troops permanently assigned to Germany as part of a longstanding arrangement between the two countries. Advertisement
In Germany, left-leaning politicians welcomed the proposed drawdown while conservative leaders described it as a wake-up call.
"The federal government should accept it with gratitude and promptly start preparing the complete withdrawal of US soldiers with the Trump administration," said Dietmar Bartsch, leader of the parliamentary group of the leftwing party Die Linke.
"It would have the collateral benefit of saving taxpayers billions, because there would not longer be a need to acquire new fighter jets."
Johann Wadephul, the deputy chair of the parliamentary group of Angela Merkel's Christian Democratic Union, said the Trump administration is neglecting "an elementary task of leadership."
"Everyone profits from the alliance sticking together, only Russia and China profit from discord. Washington should pay more attention to that."
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The plan has also met with domestic criticism.
"This is a dangerously misguided policy. If the United States abandons allies, withdraws our forces, and retreats within our borders, the cause of freedom-on which our nation was founded & our security depends-will be in peril," Rep. Liz Cheney (D-Wyo.), tweeted Saturday.


upi--2020-06-06--Art Basel organizers cancel Swiss show due to COVID-19

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Art Basel organizers have canceled the show in Basel , Switzerland this year because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Organizers announced in a statement the 2020 cancellation of the 50th anniversary edition of the annual show , otherwise set to take place in September .
The Basel fair features 250 galleries and over 4,000 artists from five continents , according to the fair 's website .
The Swiss show was already postponed from June due to health concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` The 2020 Swiss fair will not take place as planned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` While there are signs of hope as individual countries are coming out of lockdown , the global situation remains precarious , and , unfortunately , too many uncertainties remain to go ahead with the fair .
These include health risks posed by large gatherings , the limitations on intercontinental travel , and the unclear Swiss regulatory environment for shows of Art Basel 's size . ''
The show has been rescheduled to take place from June 17-20 , 2021 .
`` We are aware that our galleries are facing unprecedented challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really hoped to support the art market 's recovery with a successful show in September , '' said Marc Spiegler , Art Basel global director and executive board member of its Swiss parent company , MCH Group , in a separate statement .
`` Unfortunately , the uncertainties that we face remain too high .
We will continue to develop our digital platforms and to offer fairs of the highest quality to support our galleries and the global art community in revitalizing the art market . ''
Earlier this year , Art Basel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spread of the coronavirus that was otherwise scheduled to take place from March 19-21 .
Online viewing rooms were launched to allow exhibitors to present artworks they had planned to display at Art Basel Hong Kong .

Organizers of Art Basel have postponed the September show to June 2021. File Photo by Gary I Rothstein/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- Art Basel organizers have canceled the show in Basel, Switzerland this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Organizers announced in a statement the 2020 cancellation of the 50th anniversary edition of the annual show, otherwise set to take place in September. Advertisement
The Basel fair features 250 galleries and over 4,000 artists from five continents, according to the fair's website.
The Swiss show was already postponed from June due to health concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The 2020 Swiss fair will not take place as planned," an Art Basel statement read. "While there are signs of hope as individual countries are coming out of lockdown, the global situation remains precarious, and, unfortunately, too many uncertainties remain to go ahead with the fair. These include health risks posed by large gatherings, the limitations on intercontinental travel, and the unclear Swiss regulatory environment for shows of Art Basel's size."
The show has been rescheduled to take place from June 17-20, 2021.
"We are aware that our galleries are facing unprecedented challenges and economic difficulties, and we had really hoped to support the art market's recovery with a successful show in September," said Marc Spiegler, Art Basel global director and executive board member of its Swiss parent company, MCH Group, in a separate statement. "Unfortunately, the uncertainties that we face remain too high. We will continue to develop our digital platforms and to offer fairs of the highest quality to support our galleries and the global art community in revitalizing the art market."
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Earlier this year, Art Basel canceled its Hong Kong show due to the spread of the coronavirus that was otherwise scheduled to take place from March 19-21. Online viewing rooms were launched to allow exhibitors to present artworks they had planned to display at Art Basel Hong Kong.


upi--2020-06-06--George Floyd: Second weekend of protests grips U.S. cities

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Demonstrators poured into the streets of American cities , including Washington , D.C. , and Philadelphia , for the second consecutive weekend of protests reacting to the death of Minneapolis man George Floyd .
Multiple cities , including Minneapolis , Los Angeles , and have lifted curfews restricting protests , but restrictions remain in effect in other cities .
Officials in some cities have also announced reviews of use-of-force policies , including those pertaining to less-than-lethal weapons used for crowd control at protests .
Four New York Police Department officers have been reassigned due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayor Jenny Durkan and police chief Carmen Best announced a 30-day ban on tear gas Friday after days of criticism about the Seattle Police Department 's use of tear gas on protesters .
Officials also said the city is reviewing the department 's use of chokeholds and pepper spray .
Portland mayor Ted Wheeler announced an immediate ban on the use of long-range acoustic devices Friday and also told a crowd of protesters he was considering a moratorium on the use of tear gas .
Demonstrators in downtown Portland were tear gassed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night 's demonstrations came one day after family members held a memorial service in Minneapolis for Floyd , who died May 25 after a former police officer knelt on his neck for more than 8 minutes .
As demonstrations entered their 11th night , more and more people in small towns took to the streets to call for an end to police brutality and racism .
Protesters gathered in places such as Holland , Ark .
; Farmington , Mo .
; State College and Solebury , Pa. ; Fairmont , W.Va. ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mont .
The Washington Post said protests have been held in all 50 states and Washington , D.C. , and that there have been demonstrations in more locations than there were during the Women 's Marches in January 2017 , which took place in 650 cities and towns .
Grace Gilliam participated in a small gathering outside the St. Francois County Courthouse in Farmington , Mo.
, on Tuesday .
`` Even if it was small , it was loud , and it was powerful , '' she told CNN .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things happen everywhere .
It is not specifically in big cities where people of color are facing injustices , it 's all over America . ''
Providence , R.I. , held its second protest in response to Floyd 's death on Friday night , with thousands marching to the Rhode Island State House and others gathering at Central High School .
Tuesday 's demonstration involved rioting and about 65 arrests , but Friday remained peaceful .
A curfew was in place at 9 p.m. '' They did a great job of not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their message , '' State police Col. James Manni told the Providence Journal of the 5,000 to 7,000 protesters in the capital .
More than 1,000 people gathered at the offices of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison in St. Paul , calling for investigations of recent police-involved shootings .
Hundreds more gathered at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis and another group marched from downtown Minneapolis to the site of Floyd 's death .
Several demonstrations took place throughout Southern California , including Los Angeles , where a group knelt at City Hall .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ held a vigil across the street .
`` We all hope for this antidote for this pandemic , but more importantly , as an American , I hope for an antidote for racism , for social injustice , for the inequalities , '' he told KABC-TV in Los Angeles .
Some protesters called for officers to `` quit your job . ''
One protester , who declined to give her name , told KABC she personally experienced racial profiling .
`` We 've had enough .
We need you guys to join with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We need you to join the community in making sure that what happened to George Floyd never happens again , '' she said .
Demonstrators in Washington , D.C. , marked what would have been the 27th birthday of Breonna Taylor , a Louisville , Ky. , woman shot and killed by police on March 13 in her home .
People sang `` Happy Birthday '' while gathered near the growing barrier outside the White House .
`` I 'm so grateful to the people listening and wanting the same thing I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tamika Palmer , told The Washington Post on Friday .
`` It 's been hard , but the added support I 'm getting from around the country helps keep me going .
It helps me know that I am not in it alone anymore .
It keeps me determined , that 's for sure . ''
Officials in the nation 's capital are preparing for its largest demonstration to date , with tens of thousands expected to gather Saturday morning .
Things were n't as peaceful in Portland overnight , with police and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Multnomah County Sheriff 's Office said officers deployed tear gas to disperse crowds as protesters threw objects toward law enforcement outside the jail downtown , The Oregonian reported .
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said he plans to announce changes to the city 's policy of using tear gas -- using it only in certain , limited circumstances .
In New York City , protests largely centered in Brooklyn , with many gathering past curfew at Grand Army Plaza .
The New York Police Department arrested at least 40 people Friday night .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and smaller groups marched on Flatbush Avenue .
Demonstrators plan to march Saturday from downtown Brooklyn to City Hall .

Demonstrators hold a sign in Los Angeles on June 14 for Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was shot by police in her home while she was sleeping. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- Demonstrators poured into the streets of American cities, including Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, for the second consecutive weekend of protests reacting to the death of Minneapolis man George Floyd. Multiple cities, including Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and have lifted curfews restricting protests, but restrictions remain in effect in other cities. Advertisement
Officials in some cities have also announced reviews of use-of-force policies, including those pertaining to less-than-lethal weapons used for crowd control at protests.
Four New York Police Department officers have been reassigned due to their handling of protests.
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and police chief Carmen Best announced a 30-day ban on tear gas Friday after days of criticism about the Seattle Police Department's use of tear gas on protesters. Officials also said the city is reviewing the department's use of chokeholds and pepper spray.
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Portland mayor Ted Wheeler announced an immediate ban on the use of long-range acoustic devices Friday and also told a crowd of protesters he was considering a moratorium on the use of tear gas. Demonstrators in downtown Portland were tear gassed in downtown Portland later that night.
Friday night's demonstrations came one day after family members held a memorial service in Minneapolis for Floyd, who died May 25 after a former police officer knelt on his neck for more than 8 minutes.
As demonstrations entered their 11th night, more and more people in small towns took to the streets to call for an end to police brutality and racism. Protesters gathered in places such as Holland, Ark.; Farmington, Mo.; State College and Solebury, Pa.; Fairmont, W.Va.; Lynn, Mass.; and Havre, Mont.
The Washington Post said protests have been held in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., and that there have been demonstrations in more locations than there were during the Women's Marches in January 2017, which took place in 650 cities and towns.
Grace Gilliam participated in a small gathering outside the St. Francois County Courthouse in Farmington, Mo., on Tuesday.
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"Even if it was small, it was loud, and it was powerful," she told CNN. "Some people don't see that these things happen everywhere. It is not specifically in big cities where people of color are facing injustices, it's all over America."
Providence, R.I., held its second protest in response to Floyd's death on Friday night, with thousands marching to the Rhode Island State House and others gathering at Central High School. Tuesday's demonstration involved rioting and about 65 arrests, but Friday remained peaceful. A curfew was in place at 9 p.m.
"They did a great job of not only organizing it but controlling it and giving their message," State police Col. James Manni told the Providence Journal of the 5,000 to 7,000 protesters in the capital.
Peace prevailed in larger cities, too, Friday night.
More than 1,000 people gathered at the offices of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison in St. Paul, calling for investigations of recent police-involved shootings. Hundreds more gathered at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis and another group marched from downtown Minneapolis to the site of Floyd's death.
Several demonstrations took place throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, where a group knelt at City Hall. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore held a vigil across the street.
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"We all hope for this antidote for this pandemic, but more importantly, as an American, I hope for an antidote for racism, for social injustice, for the inequalities," he told KABC-TV in Los Angeles.
Some protesters called for officers to "quit your job."
One protester, who declined to give her name, told KABC she personally experienced racial profiling.
"We've had enough. We need you guys to join with us, whatever that looks like. We need you to join the community in making sure that what happened to George Floyd never happens again," she said.
Demonstrators in Washington, D.C., marked what would have been the 27th birthday of Breonna Taylor, a Louisville, Ky., woman shot and killed by police on March 13 in her home. People sang "Happy Birthday" while gathered near the growing barrier outside the White House.
"I'm so grateful to the people listening and wanting the same thing I want -- justice," her mother, Tamika Palmer, told The Washington Post on Friday. "It's been hard, but the added support I'm getting from around the country helps keep me going. It helps me know that I am not in it alone anymore. It keeps me determined, that's for sure."
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Officials in the nation's capital are preparing for its largest demonstration to date, with tens of thousands expected to gather Saturday morning.
Things weren't as peaceful in Portland overnight, with police and protesters clashing into the morning hours. The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office said officers deployed tear gas to disperse crowds as protesters threw objects toward law enforcement outside the jail downtown, The Oregonian reported.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said he plans to announce changes to the city's policy of using tear gas -- using it only in certain, limited circumstances.
In New York City, protests largely centered in Brooklyn, with many gathering past curfew at Grand Army Plaza. The New York Police Department arrested at least 40 people Friday night. About 500 people gathered at Columbus Circle, and smaller groups marched on Flatbush Avenue.
Demonstrators plan to march Saturday from downtown Brooklyn to City Hall.


upi--2020-06-06--San Antonio soldier found dead in his home with wife, 4 children

June 6 ( UPI ) -- The Army has confirmed that a man found dead this week with his wife and four children in their San Antonio home was a soldier assigned to Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston .
Jared Esquibel Harless , 38 , was found dead in his home along with his 36-year-old wife and four children , the oldest of whom was 4 .
Harless had been working from home but did not check in with his employer Thursday morning , prompting the employer to contact police to request a welfare check .
Upon arrival police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military jargon and a powerful chemical smell , prompting them to investigate the area with a drone and to evacuate nearby residences .
They found the family dead in a car in the garage , along with two cats .
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said Thursday that the incident `` was not an accident '' and that the deaths appeared to be the result of carbon monoxide poisoning .
Harless served with the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade , according to a statement from the unit , but the Army has not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details of his career .
`` Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased , '' brigade spokeswoman Monica Yoas said in a statement .
The Army said the case is under investigation by the San Antonio Police Department and the Army Criminal Investigation Command .

June 6 (UPI) -- The Army has confirmed that a man found dead this week with his wife and four children in their San Antonio home was a soldier assigned to Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston.
Jared Esquibel Harless, 38, was found dead in his home along with his 36-year-old wife and four children, the oldest of whom was 4.
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Harless had been working from home but did not check in with his employer Thursday morning, prompting the employer to contact police to request a welfare check.
Upon arrival police found a "cryptic note" with military jargon and a powerful chemical smell, prompting them to investigate the area with a drone and to evacuate nearby residences.
They found the family dead in a car in the garage, along with two cats.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus said Thursday that the incident "was not an accident" and that the deaths appeared to be the result of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Harless served with the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade, according to a statement from the unit, but the Army has not released information about his rank or other details of his career.
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"Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased," brigade spokeswoman Monica Yoas said in a statement.
The Army said the case is under investigation by the San Antonio Police Department and the Army Criminal Investigation Command.


upi--2020-06-06--Jason Sudeikis to host 'Tournament of Laughs' on TBS

Saturday Night Live alum Jason Sudeikis is to host the show , which is set to premiere on June 21 .
Thirty-two comedians will compete via video-conference technology due to social- distancing practices amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Among the entertainers booked for the program are Jeff Ross , Margaret Cho , Gilbert Gottfried , Judah Friedlander , Michael Rapaport , Jim Norton , Fortune Feimster , Triumph the Insult Comic Dog , Natasha Leggero , Cameron Esposito , Godfrey , The Sklar Brothers , Mary Lynn Rajskub , Josh Wolf , Clayton English , Yamaneika Saunders , Gina Yashere @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jessica Kirson , Paul Rodriguez , Sarah Tiana , Matteo Lane , Beth Stelling , Vladimir Caamano , Ian Edwards , Aida Rodriguez , Megan Gailey , Preacher Lawson and Piff The Magic Dragon .
`` We may be without some of our favorite sports right now , but we can still partake in some fierce rivalries , '' Brett Weitz -- general manager of TNT , TBS , and truTV -- said in a news release .
`` These comics promise to bring the funny each week , but the audience will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laugh . ''

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Jason Sudeikis is set to host a new TBS comedy competition called "Tournament of Laughs." File Photo by Chris Chew/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- TBS has ordered a seven-episode competition series called, Tournament of Laughs. Saturday Night Live alum Jason Sudeikis is to host the show, which is set to premiere on June 21. Advertisement
Thirty-two comedians will compete via video-conference technology due to social- distancing practices amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Among the entertainers booked for the program are Jeff Ross, Margaret Cho, Gilbert Gottfried, Judah Friedlander, Michael Rapaport, Jim Norton, Fortune Feimster, Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, Natasha Leggero, Cameron Esposito, Godfrey, The Sklar Brothers, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Josh Wolf, Clayton English, Yamaneika Saunders, Gina Yashere, Tim Dillon, Moshe Kasher, Jessica Kirson, Paul Rodriguez, Sarah Tiana, Matteo Lane, Beth Stelling, Vladimir Caamano, Ian Edwards, Aida Rodriguez, Megan Gailey, Preacher Lawson and Piff The Magic Dragon.
"We may be without some of our favorite sports right now, but we can still partake in some fierce rivalries," Brett Weitz -- general manager of TNT, TBS, and truTV -- said in a news release.
"These comics promise to bring the funny each week, but the audience will get to decide who gets the last laugh."


upi--2020-06-06--Protesters demand justice in police killing of George Floyd

Protests broke out in cities across the United States and Europe after a white police officer in Minneapolis was recorded @ @ @ @ @ George Floyd , an unarmed African-American man .
Floyd died and the officer has been @ @ @ @ @ , 2020 encounter .

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


upi--2020-06-06--The CW picks up 'Devils,' starring Patrick Dempsey, Alessandro Borghi

June 6 ( UPI ) -- The CW Network said it has added to its fall TV lineup Devils , an international thriller starring Alessandro Borghi and Patrick Dempsey .
The show will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and will be paired with the new investigative drama Coroner , which will start at 9 p.m. No premiere date has been announced .
Devils is a collaboration of Sky Italia and Lux Vide , in association with Sky Studios , Orange Studio and OCS .
According to a news release , Devils follows Massimo Ruggero ( Borghi ) , `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at NYL , one of the world 's most important investment banks , and his mentor , NYL 's CEO Dominic Morgan ( Dempsey . )
`` After Dominic appoints another colleague over Massimo following a bitter promotion battle , Massimo finds himself named prime suspect in a murder investigation , '' the synopsis continued .
`` Fighting to clear his name , Massimo becomes involved in an intercontinental financial war and is forced to choose between supporting Dominic or going up against him . ''
The small-screen adaptation of Guido Maria Brera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kasia Smutniak , Lars Mikkelsen , Malachi Kirby , Paul Chowdhry , Pia Mechler , Harry Michell and Sallie Harmsen .

Patrick Dempsey will be seen this fall in "Devils," a new thriller on The CW. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- The CW Network said it has added to its fall TV lineup Devils, an international thriller starring Alessandro Borghi and Patrick Dempsey. The show will air on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and will be paired with the new investigative drama Coroner, which will start at 9 p.m. Advertisement
No premiere date has been announced.
Devils is a collaboration of Sky Italia and Lux Vide, in association with Sky Studios, Orange Studio and OCS.
According to a news release, Devils follows Massimo Ruggero (Borghi), "the charismatic yet ruthless Head of Trading at NYL, one of the world's most important investment banks, and his mentor, NYL's CEO Dominic Morgan (Dempsey.)
"After Dominic appoints another colleague over Massimo following a bitter promotion battle, Massimo finds himself named prime suspect in a murder investigation," the synopsis continued. "Fighting to clear his name, Massimo becomes involved in an intercontinental financial war and is forced to choose between supporting Dominic or going up against him."
The small-screen adaptation of Guido Maria Brera's novel I Diavoli co-stars Laia Costa, Kasia Smutniak, Lars Mikkelsen, Malachi Kirby, Paul Chowdhry, Pia Mechler, Harry Michell and Sallie Harmsen.
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upi--2020-06-06--TV and film productions OK to resume in California

June 6 ( UPI ) -- California Gov .
Gavin Newsom has declared that TV and film productions may resume in the state on Friday .
The industry has been largely shut down since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic , which has killed about 108,000 people in the United States to date .
Productions will be `` subject to approval by county public health officers within the jurisdictions of operations following their review of local epidemiological data including cases per 100,000 population , rate of test positivity , and local preparedness to support a health care surge , vulnerable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' the California Department of Public Health said in a statement issued by the governor 's office Friday .
It is unclear which TV shows and movies might go back to work on or around that date , however , since protocols still need to be approved , union agreements signed and protective measures put in place .
Changes on set that are expected are coronavirus testing for casts and crews , regular temperature checks , improved hygiene and sanitation , and live audiences only when they wear masks and social distance .

Laura Dern (L) and Renee Zellweger with the Oscars they won in February. Hollywood has been given the green light to resume TV and film production in California next week. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- California Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared that TV and film productions may resume in the state on Friday. The industry has been largely shut down since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has killed about 108,000 people in the United States to date. Advertisement
Productions will be "subject to approval by county public health officers within the jurisdictions of operations following their review of local epidemiological data including cases per 100,000 population, rate of test positivity, and local preparedness to support a health care surge, vulnerable populations, contact tracing and testing," the California Department of Public Health said in a statement issued by the governor's office Friday.
It is unclear which TV shows and movies might go back to work on or around that date, however, since protocols still need to be approved, union agreements signed and protective measures put in place.
Changes on set that are expected are coronavirus testing for casts and crews, regular temperature checks, improved hygiene and sanitation, and live audiences only when they wear masks and social distance.


upi--2020-06-06--Buffalo, N.Y., officers charged with assault for injury to 75-year-old

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Buffalo police officer Robert McCabe was charged Saturday with second-degree assault for allegedly pushing Martin Gugino, was who hospitalized on Thursday. Photo courtesy of the Erie County District Attorney's Office
June 6 (UPI) -- Two Buffalo, N.Y., police officers pleaded not guilty to second-degree assault Saturday, two days after they were captured on film appearing to shove a 75-year-old man who fell and was hospitalized. Robert McCabe, 32, and Aaron Torglaski, 39, were virtually arraigned and released on their own recognizance. Advertisement
Buffalo Police Commissioner Byron Lockwood suspended the two officers without pay Thursday after a video by WBFO showed the altercation.
In the video, the officers can be seen shoving Martin Gugino, 75, as he speaks to them during a protest in front of Buffalo City Hall. He was involved in demonstrations -- after the start of curfew -- against the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis and police brutality.
After he was shoved, Gugino falls to the ground, hitting his head. He can be seen lying on the ground, bleeding from his ear as members of the Buffalo Police Department's Emergency Response Team walked past him.
Martin was hospitalized and in serious but stable condition. His attorney said he was "alert and oriented."
All 57 members of the team resigned their positions -- but not from the police department -- on Friday in solidarity with the two officers.
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A crowd of supporters, including fellow police officers and firefighters, gathered outside Buffalo City Court during McCabe and Torglaski's arraignment Saturday morning. They're next scheduled to appear in court July 20.
If convicted, they each face up to seven years in prison.
Protesters demand justice in police killing of George Floyd
Demonstrators hold a sign in Los Angeles on June 14 for Breonna Taylor, a black woman who was shot by police in her home while she was sleeping. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo


upi--2020-06-06--Hundreds gather at George Floyd memorial service in North Carolina

June 6 (UPI) -- Hundreds of mourners lined up Saturday in Hoke County, N.C., to mourn North Carolina-native George Floyd.
The memorial, consisting of a public viewing and private family service, was held in Raeford.
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An estimated 500 people lined up to view Floyd's casket 20 at a time. Some crowded near the church's door, some sobbing, others shouting "Black power!" and "George Floyd!"
Some of Floyd's family members, including his sister, Bridgette Floyd, a Hoke County resident, still call North Carolina home.
Though Floyd spent most of his time in Houston, he was born in Fayetteville, N.C., 22 miles east of the Cape Fear Conference B, a religious center where the memorial was held.
Gov. Roy Cooper ordered North Carolina flags to be flown at half-staff Saturday in Floyd's honor.
The service is the second memorial since Floyd, 46, an African-American security guard and community leader, who died as a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, placed his knee on his neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds.
His and other police-involved killings -- which have disproportionately impacted black people in the United States -- have sparked 12 days of protests against police brutality across the globe.
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All four officers involved in Floyd's death -- including Thomas Lane, J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao -- have been fired, charged and jailed.
Chauvin's charge was recently upgraded from third-degree to second-degree murder. The three other officers were charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
"It reminded me of the 60s," Barbara Clark said regarding the outrage while waiting in line to pay her respects at the memorial. "It reminded me of when I was in California for the riots in '92. Always flashing back to the same thing. Black men getting murdered."
The sheriff's office expected 30,000 to 40,000 people to pay their respects throughout the day.
On Monday, a public viewing will be held in Houston, where Floyd grew up and lived most of his life.
The first service, praising him as a "powerful man," in the fight against injustice was held Thursday in Minneapolis.
Protesters demand justice in police killing of George Floyd


upi--2020-06-06--Lifetime cancels 'Abby's Virtual Dance Off' after Abby Lee Miller allegations

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Lifetime is not going ahead with its planned competition series , Abby 's Virtual Dance Off .
The cable network announced in April that the 12-episode show would consist of taped submissions from dance contestants , with Dance Moms star Abby Lee Miller judging via video conference , in keeping with social-distancing practiced during the coronavirus pandemic .
But UsMagazine.com and EW.com reported Friday that the episodes will not air after two African-American mothers alleged on social media that Miller used racist and condescending language when their daughters appeared in previous seasons of Dance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , saying : `` I genuinely understand and deeply regret how my words have effected and hurt those around me in the past , particularly those in the Black community .
To Kamryn , Adriana , and anyone else I 've hurt , I am truly sorry . ''
The decision to scrap the show was made during a week filled with protests seeking justice for African Americans who have died during altercations with law-enforcement , particularly George Floyd , who died when a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for several @ @

"Abby's Virtual Dance Off" will not air on Lifetime as planned. Image courtesy of Lifetime
June 6 (UPI) -- Lifetime is not going ahead with its planned competition series, Abby's Virtual Dance Off. The cable network announced in April that the 12-episode show would consist of taped submissions from dance contestants, with Dance Moms star Abby Lee Miller judging via video conference, in keeping with social-distancing practiced during the coronavirus pandemic. Advertisement
But UsMagazine.com and EW.com reported Friday that the episodes will not air after two African-American mothers alleged on social media that Miller used racist and condescending language when their daughters appeared in previous seasons of Dance Moms.
Miller apologized for her behavior, saying: "I genuinely understand and deeply regret how my words have effected and hurt those around me in the past, particularly those in the Black community. To Kamryn, Adriana, and anyone else I've hurt, I am truly sorry."
The decision to scrap the show was made during a week filled with protests seeking justice for African Americans who have died during altercations with law-enforcement, particularly George Floyd, who died when a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for several minutes.
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upi--2020-06-06--Brazil threatens to follow U.S. pullout of WHO amid pandemic

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Brazil has threatened to leave the World Health Organization over alleged bias as the South American country recorded the the second-highest number of cases of the coronavirus .
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced the threat weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump cut U.S. ties with WHO .
Bolsonaro said the specialized agency of the United Nations in charge of international public health has `` ideological '' bias .
`` I 'm telling you right now , the United States left the WHO , and we 're studying that , in the future , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Either the WHO works without ideological bias , or we leave , too . ''
Similar to Trump , he has downplayed COVID-19 's severity , attacked stay-at-home orders and touted unsubstantiated claims about benefits of malaria drug hydroxychloroquine .
Brazil recorded 1,005 new COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours , bringing the country 's death toll to 35,026 , CNN reported .
Brazil also has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases worldwide at more than 600,000 cases , according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University .
The United States has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 109,000 deaths .
Cases have surged in Brazil and across Latin America recently , leading the WHO to report that Latin America has become the epicenter of the pandemic .
In India , COVID-19 cases are also surging .
India has surpassed Italy in the number of COVID-19 cases after the biggest single-day rise in confirmed infections .
The number of COVID-19 cases in India has risen to 237,788 , according to global data , and deaths from the virus has risen to 6,672 .
China was the first country to diagnose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease as pneumonia .
On Friday , China warned its citizens not to travel to Australia citing discrimination against Asians there .
`` Recently , due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic , racial discrimination and acts of violence against Chinese and Asians in Australia have increased significantly , '' a Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism statement read .
`` The Ministry of Culture and Tourism reminds Chinese tourists to raise their safety awareness and not to travel to Australia . ''
`` We reject China 's assertions in this statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Birmingham told ABC .
China has 84,181 cases of COVID-19 and 4,638 deaths from the virus , according to global data .
Australia has 7,255 cases and 102 deaths from the virus .
Meanwhile , in Peru , which has 187,400 cases and 5,162 COVID-19 deaths , the situation is worsening .
Peru lacks oxygen tanks and people are collapsing on the street from the virus , CNN reported .
Globally , COVID-19 has sickened more than 6.7 million people and killed more than 395,000 people .

Visitors wear face masks as they tour the Whitney Museum of American Art as it reopens on September 3. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- Brazil has threatened to leave the World Health Organization over alleged bias as the South American country recorded the the second-highest number of cases of the coronavirus. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro announced the threat weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump cut U.S. ties with WHO. Advertisement
Bolsonaro said the specialized agency of the United Nations in charge of international public health has "ideological" bias.
"I'm telling you right now, the United States left the WHO, and we're studying that, in the future," the far-right leader told reporters. "Either the WHO works without ideological bias, or we leave, too."
Similar to Trump, he has downplayed COVID-19's severity, attacked stay-at-home orders and touted unsubstantiated claims about benefits of malaria drug hydroxychloroquine.
Brazil recorded 1,005 new COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the country's death toll to 35,026, CNN reported.
Brazil also has the second-highest number of COVID-19 cases worldwide at more than 600,000 cases, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. The United States has reported nearly 1.9 million cases and more than 109,000 deaths.
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Cases have surged in Brazil and across Latin America recently, leading the WHO to report that Latin America has become the epicenter of the pandemic.
In India, COVID-19 cases are also surging.
India has surpassed Italy in the number of COVID-19 cases after the biggest single-day rise in confirmed infections.
India's Health Ministry reported 9,887 new COVID-19 cases Saturday.
The number of COVID-19 cases in India has risen to 237,788, according to global data, and deaths from the virus has risen to 6,672.
China was the first country to diagnose COVID-19 in January after initially identifying the disease as pneumonia.
On Friday, China warned its citizens not to travel to Australia citing discrimination against Asians there.
"Recently, due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, racial discrimination and acts of violence against Chinese and Asians in Australia have increased significantly," a Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism statement read. "The Ministry of Culture and Tourism reminds Chinese tourists to raise their safety awareness and not to travel to Australia."
Australian Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham rejected the warning, Australia's public broadcaster, ABC, reported.
"We reject China's assertions in this statement, which have no basis in fact," Birmingham told ABC.
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China has 84,181 cases of COVID-19 and 4,638 deaths from the virus, according to global data. Australia has 7,255 cases and 102 deaths from the virus.
Meanwhile, in Peru, which has 187,400 cases and 5,162 COVID-19 deaths, the situation is worsening.
Peru lacks oxygen tanks and people are collapsing on the street from the virus, CNN reported.
Globally, COVID-19 has sickened more than 6.7 million people and killed more than 395,000 people.


upi--2020-06-06--Fire destroys Amazon distribution center in Redlands, Calif.

The fire broke out early Friday while 100 people were working inside in the warehouse in the Redlands .
City @ @ @ @ @ Redlands Daily Facts newspaper that all people got out of the building safely .
Firefighters @ @ @ @ @ , but they expect the building to smolder for days .
The building was a @ @ @ @ @ went up really fast , and the whole building was involved , '' Baker said @ @ @ @ @ was estimated to cost hundreds of millions of dollars .
The large blaze caused officials @ @ @ @ @ 10 Freeway .
`` We are glad everyone is safe , and thankful for the @ @ @ @ @ and first responders , '' Amazon spokeswoman Eileen Hards said .

June 6 (UPI) -- A large fire destroyed a 600,000-square-foot Amazon distribution center in Southern California, local officials said.
The fire broke out early Friday while 100 people were working inside in the warehouse in the Redlands.
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City spokesman Carl Baker told the Redlands Daily Facts newspaper that all people got out of the building safely.
Firefighters brought the fire under control, but they expect the building to smolder for days. The building was a total loss.
"It went up really fast, and the whole building was involved," Baker said, adding that the damage was estimated to cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
The large blaze caused officials to temporarily shut down nearby 10 Freeway.
"We are glad everyone is safe, and thankful for the efforts of the local firefighters and first responders," Amazon spokeswoman Eileen Hards said.


upi--2020-06-06--Gunna's 'Wunna' tops the U.S. album chart

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Rapper Gunna 's Wunna is the No .
1 album in the United States @ @ @ @ @ .
2 on the Billboard 200 chart dated Saturday is Lil Baby 's My Turn @ @ @ @ @ High Off Life at No .
3 , The 1975 's Notes on a Conditional @ @ @ @ @ and Polo G 's The Goat at No .
5 .
Rounding out the Top @ @ @ @ @ Lane Demo Tapes at No .
6 , DaBaby 's Blame It On Baby at @ @ @ @ @ Weeknd 's After Hours at No .
8 , Lil Uzi Vert 's Eternal Atake @ @ @ @ @ Post Malone 's Hollywood 's Bleeding at No .
10 .

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Gunna's "Wunna" is No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart dated this Saturday. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
June 6 (UPI) -- Rapper Gunna's Wunna is the No. 1 album in the United States. Coming in at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart dated Saturday is Lil Baby's My Turn, followed by Future's High Off Life at No. 3, The 1975's Notes on a Conditional Form at No. 4 and Polo G's The Goat at No. 5. Advertisement
Rounding out the Top 10 are Drake's Dark Lane Demo Tapes at No. 6, DaBaby's Blame It On Baby at No. 7, The Weeknd's After Hours at No. 8, Lil Uzi Vert's Eternal Atake at No. 9 and Post Malone's Hollywood's Bleeding at No. 10.


upi--2020-06-06--Joe Biden has enough delegates to secure Democratic nomination, projections show

June 6 ( UPI ) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden has enough delegates to officially become the Democratic presidential nominee , projections Saturday showed .
NBC News projected that Biden has 2,000 delegates , surpassing the required 1,991 to secure the Democratic Party 's presidential nomination on the first ballot at the national convention .
There are 3,979 pledged delegates available , so the number Biden has amassed also represents a majority of delegates .
Winning a series of Democratic primaries on Tuesday helped push Biden to secure the nomination over Sen. Bernie Sanders , I-Vt. , who suspended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to officially select Biden at he Democratic National Convention , which will be held Aug. 17-20 in Milwaukee .
The original date for the event was postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic .
`` It was an honor to compete alongside one of the most talented groups of candidates the Democratic Party has ever fielded -- and I am proud to say that we are going into this general election a united party , '' Biden said in a Medium post Friday .
After a rough start , South Carolina was a turning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February .
He won every county statewide , defeating Sanders , I-Vt. , 49 percent to 20 percent , boosted by black voters support .
Days later , Sen. Amy Klobuchar , D-Minn. and former South Bend , Ind.
, Mayor Pete Buttigieg dropped out of the race .
Then , on Super Tuesday , Biden received the most delegates .
Biden is expected to face off against incumbent President Donald Trump , who secured the Republican nomination in March , in the presidential election Nov. 3 .
Throughout his campaign , Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a battle for the soul of this nation . ''
He added in his statement Friday that he would `` make sure that as we rebuild our economy , everyone comes along . ''

Former Vice President Joe Biden will become the official Democratic presidential nominee, projections showed Saturday. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
June 6 (UPI) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden has enough delegates to officially become the Democratic presidential nominee, projections Saturday showed. NBC News projected that Biden has 2,000 delegates, surpassing the required 1,991 to secure the Democratic Party's presidential nomination on the first ballot at the national convention. There are 3,979 pledged delegates available, so the number Biden has amassed also represents a majority of delegates. Advertisement
Winning a series of Democratic primaries on Tuesday helped push Biden to secure the nomination over Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., who suspended his campaign in Aprile.
Delegates are expected to officially select Biden at he Democratic National Convention, which will be held Aug. 17-20 in Milwaukee. The original date for the event was postponed amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"It was an honor to compete alongside one of the most talented groups of candidates the Democratic Party has ever fielded -- and I am proud to say that we are going into this general election a united party," Biden said in a Medium post Friday.
After a rough start, South Carolina was a turning point for the Biden campaign in late February. He won every county statewide, defeating Sanders, I-Vt., 49 percent to 20 percent, boosted by black voters support.
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Days later, Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn. and former South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg dropped out of the race. Then, on Super Tuesday, Biden received the most delegates.
Biden is expected to face off against incumbent President Donald Trump, who secured the Republican nomination in March, in the presidential election Nov. 3.
Throughout his campaign, Biden has said that "we're in a battle for the soul of this nation."
He added in his statement Friday that he would "make sure that as we rebuild our economy, everyone comes along."


upi--2020-06-07--On This Day, June 7: James Byrd Jr. lynched in Texas

On this date in history : In 1776 , the Lee Resolution , which led to the U.S .
Declaration of Independence , was introduced in the Continental Congress .
In 1864 , Republican delegates meeting in Baltimore nominated Abraham Lincoln for his second term as president .
His running mate was Andrew Johnson .
In 1942 , Japanese forces occupied Attu and Kiska in the Aleutian Islands .
U.S. forces retook the islands one year later .
In 1965 , the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Connecticut law banning contraceptives .
In 1967 , Israeli troops captured Jerusalem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the first videocassette recorder went on sale to the public .
In 1983 , one day after Nicaragua expelled three U.S. diplomats , the Reagan administration ordered six Nicaraguan consulates closed and expelled six of the country 's diplomats .
In 1990 , South African President F.W .
de Klerk lifted a 4-year-old nationwide state of emergency in all but the strife-torn Indian Ocean province of Natal .
In 1996 , Max Factor , who pioneered smudge-proof lipstick , died at the age of 91 .
In 1998 , three white supremacists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 3 miles behind a pickup truck in Jasper , Texas .
The three men were convicted of murder -- one was executed in 2011 , another is on death row and a third was sentenced to life in prison .
The lynching spurred a Texas hate crime law as well as the federal Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr .
Hate Crimes Prevention Act .
In 2002 , U.S. missionary Martin Burnham , captured in the Philippines by a Muslim group more than a year earlier , was fatally shot during a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hillary Clinton , D-N.Y. , officially ended her campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination and endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for president .
In 2013 , an arsonist set fire to a bus in Xiamen , China , killing 42 people and injuring 30 others .
In 2013 , six people were killed and five injured in a Santa Monica , Calif. , shooting rampage that started at a private home and ended on a college campus .
The dead included the 23-year-old gunman , who was shot by police .
In 2018 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cup with a 4-3 win in Game 5 against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena .

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President Barack Obama (L) claps with Louvon Harris (C) and Betty Byrd Boatner, the sisters of James Byrd, Jr., who was a victim of a hate crime, as he delivers remarks on the passing of the Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act, at the White House in Washington on October 28, 2009. On June 7, 1998, three white supremacists killed Byrd by dragging him for 3 miles behind a pickup truck in Jasper, Texas. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
On this date in history: In 1776, the Lee Resolution, which led to the U.S. Declaration of Independence, was introduced in the Continental Congress. Advertisement
In 1864, Republican delegates meeting in Baltimore nominated Abraham Lincoln for his second term as president. His running mate was Andrew Johnson.
In 1942, Japanese forces occupied Attu and Kiska in the Aleutian Islands. U.S. forces retook the islands one year later.
In 1965, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Connecticut law banning contraceptives.
In 1967, Israeli troops captured Jerusalem during the Six-Day War.
Far-right Israeli supporters wave national flags on Jerusalem Day to celebrate Israel's victory in the Six-Day War outside the Damascus Gate in the Old City of Jerusalem, May 13. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI
In 1975, the first videocassette recorder went on sale to the public.
In 1983, one day after Nicaragua expelled three U.S. diplomats, the Reagan administration ordered six Nicaraguan consulates closed and expelled six of the country's diplomats.
In 1990, South African President F.W. de Klerk lifted a 4-year-old nationwide state of emergency in all but the strife-torn Indian Ocean province of Natal.
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In 1996, Max Factor, who pioneered smudge-proof lipstick, died at the age of 91.
In 1998, three white supremacists killed James Byrd Jr. by dragging him for 3 miles behind a pickup truck in Jasper, Texas. The three men were convicted of murder -- one was executed in 2011, another is on death row and a third was sentenced to life in prison. The lynching spurred a Texas hate crime law as well as the federal Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
In 2002, U.S. missionary Martin Burnham, captured in the Philippines by a Muslim group more than a year earlier, was fatally shot during a rescue attempt.
In 2008, Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., officially ended her campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination and endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for president.
File Photo by Matthew Healey/UPI
In 2013, an arsonist set fire to a bus in Xiamen, China, killing 42 people and injuring 30 others.
In 2013, six people were killed and five injured in a Santa Monica, Calif., shooting rampage that started at a private home and ended on a college campus. The dead included the 23-year-old gunman, who was shot by police.
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In 2018, the Washington Capitals won their first Stanley Cup with a 4-3 win in Game 5 against the Vegas Golden Knights at T-Mobile Arena.


upi--2020-06-07--NASCAR's resumed season has 'fatigued' Cup Series leader Kevin Harvick

June 5 ( UPI ) -- The format of NASCAR 's resumed season has tired some of the sports best drivers , including Cup Series leader Kevin Harvick .
Harvick finished 11th in the Supermarket Heroes 500 Sunday at Bristol Motor Speedway .
He won the Real Heroes 400 May 17 in Darlington , S.C. , the first race after NASCAR 's suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic .
He has two other Top 5 finishes since the sport 's return .
NASCAR 's typical Cup Series format includes mostly Sunday races .
Drivers added a Wednesday between the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They raced again the next Thursday before Sunday 's event at Bristol .
Cup Series stars drove more than 2,500 miles in five races in 15 days .
Some drivers also drove in the Xfinity Series and Truck Series during that time .
`` For me there has been a change to the process , especially through the first two weeks , '' Harvick said .
`` We had difficult race tracks at Darlington , Charlotte and Bristol . ''
Harvick said he has changed his recovery process for workouts and given himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forth from the tracks .
`` You look at it from the outside and you think 'what a day . '
No practice or qualifying and less travel should be easier , '' Harvick said .
`` That Wednesday race adds another layer to how you have to take care of yourself .
Then the layoff over the eight or nine weeks we were out of the car [ season suspension ] and then just jumping in the car for those miles .
It has been a lot .
`` I was much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I have been for a long time because you keep stacking those races on top of each other . ''
Despite the exhaustion , Harvick said he ca n't complain because he knows he is fortunate to be part of one of the only active sports leagues in the United States .
Harvick will jump back in his No .
4 Ford for the Fold of Honor QuikTrip 500 Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway .
His car will look a bit different as he will be part of a dual paint scheme with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promote a campaign to help farmers in the United States .
Harvick 's sponsor Busch Light will still be plastered on his hood but his car will also include a blue , yellow and green colorway and large ears of corn .
Busch provided funds for Farm Rescue to expand into Kansas .
Farm Rescue is a nonprofit that has helped nearly 700 family farms sustain operations in times of crisis .
`` There are a lot of people who need help , '' Harvick said .
`` When you look at our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ front line that has been so courageous through this whole pandemic and keeping us all fed .
When you look at our farmers in need , it 's obviously a key to keep us running as a country . ''
NASCAR has been a refuge for sports fans while other leagues are still suspended .
Harvick said the drivers wish fans were allowed at the track but he enjoys the opportunity to showcase the sport to new viewers .
`` Even with three of the five races impacted by rain , there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there , '' Harvick said .
`` In the end , a lot of sports fans are out there .
`` We are tired of watching 1984 basketball games and reruns .
We all want something fresh .
Our sport is fortunate to be in a position to put our events on and get on the track . ''

NASCAR's Kevin Harvick said he was fatigued after he competed in five Cup Series races in 15 days as part of the sport's resumed season. File Photo by Edwin Locke/UPI | License Photo
June 5 (UPI) -- The format of NASCAR's resumed season has tired some of the sports best drivers, including Cup Series leader Kevin Harvick. Harvick finished 11th in the Supermarket Heroes 500 Sunday at Bristol Motor Speedway. He won the Real Heroes 400 May 17 in Darlington, S.C., the first race after NASCAR's suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic. He has two other Top 5 finishes since the sport's return. Advertisement
NASCAR's typical Cup Series format includes mostly Sunday races. Drivers added a Wednesday between the first two Sunday races of the restart. They raced again the next Thursday before Sunday's event at Bristol. Cup Series stars drove more than 2,500 miles in five races in 15 days. Some drivers also drove in the Xfinity Series and Truck Series during that time.
"For me there has been a change to the process, especially through the first two weeks," Harvick said. "We had difficult race tracks at Darlington, Charlotte and Bristol."
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Harvick said he has changed his recovery process for workouts and given himself extra travel time to drive back and forth from the tracks.
"You look at it from the outside and you think 'what a day.' No practice or qualifying and less travel should be easier," Harvick said. "That Wednesday race adds another layer to how you have to take care of yourself. Then the layoff over the eight or nine weeks we were out of the car [season suspension] and then just jumping in the car for those miles. It has been a lot.
"I was much more fatigued last Sunday from Bristol than I have been for a long time because you keep stacking those races on top of each other."
Despite the exhaustion, Harvick said he can't complain because he knows he is fortunate to be part of one of the only active sports leagues in the United States.
Harvick will jump back in his No. 4 Ford for the Fold of Honor QuikTrip 500 Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. His car will look a bit different as he will be part of a dual paint scheme with teammate Clint Bowyer. The cars will promote a campaign to help farmers in the United States.
Advertisement Our guys @KevinHarvick and @ClintBowyer are busting out this dual @BuschBeer paint scheme on June 7! Tag someone who'd appreciate this kind of corniness. #ForTheFarmers pic.twitter.com/aUatfeTovu- Stewart-Haas Racing (@StewartHaasRcng) May 26, 2020
Helping farmers and new fans
Harvick's sponsor Busch Light will still be plastered on his hood but his car will also include a blue, yellow and green colorway and large ears of corn. Busch provided funds for Farm Rescue to expand into Kansas. Farm Rescue is a nonprofit that has helped nearly 700 family farms sustain operations in times of crisis.
"There are a lot of people who need help," Harvick said. "When you look at our farmers, they are key to the front line that has been so courageous through this whole pandemic and keeping us all fed. When you look at our farmers in need, it's obviously a key to keep us running as a country."
NASCAR has been a refuge for sports fans while other leagues are still suspended. Harvick said the drivers wish fans were allowed at the track but he enjoys the opportunity to showcase the sport to new viewers.
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"Even with three of the five races impacted by rain, there are a lot of new race fans out there," Harvick said. "In the end, a lot of sports fans are out there.
"We are tired of watching 1984 basketball games and reruns. We all want something fresh. Our sport is fortunate to be in a position to put our events on and get on the track."


upi--2020-06-07--Famous birthdays for June 7: Iggy Azalea, Tom Jones

June 7 ( UPI ) -- Those born on this date are under the sign of Gemini .
-- Gwendolyn @ @ @ @ @ woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for poetry , in 1917

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Iggy Azalea arrives for the iHeartRadio Music Festival at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on September 21, 2018. The rapper turns 30 on June 7. File Photo by James Atoa/UPI | License Photo
June 7 (UPI) -- Those born on this date are under the sign of Gemini. They include: Advertisement
-- Pope Gregory XIII in 1502
-- British fashion plate George "Beau" Brummell in 1778
-- French post-Impressionist painter Paul Gauguin in 1848
-- Actor Jessica Tandy in 1909
-- Actor/singer Dean Martin in 1917
-- Gwendolyn Brooks, the first black woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for poetry, in 1917
-- Singer Tom Jones in 1940 (age 80)
File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI
-- Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 1942
-- Former talk-show host Jenny Jones in 1946 (age 74)
-- Turkish author Orhan Pamuk in 1952 (age 68)
-- Actor Liam Neeson in 1952 (age 68)
-- Singer/songwriter Prince in 1958
-- U.S. Vice President Mike Pence in 1959 (age 61)
-- Guitarist Dave Navarro in 1967 (age 53)
-- TV personality Michael "Bear" Grylls in 1974 (age 46)
-- Basketball hall of fame member Allen Iverson in 1975 (age 45)
File Photo by Alexis C. Glenn/UPI
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-- Actor Bill Hader in 1978 (age 42)
-- Former pro tennis player Anna Kournikova in 1981 (age 39)
-- Actor Michael Cera in 1988 (age 32)
-- Rapper Iggy Azalea, born Amethyst Amelia Kelly, in 1990 (age 30)
-- Actor/model Emily Ratajkowski in 1991 (age 29)
-- Rapper Fetty Wap, born Willie Maxwell II, in 1991 (age 29)


upi--2020-06-06--Las Cruces cop charged with manslaughter in February death

June 6 ( UPI ) -- A police officer in Las Cruces , N.M. has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after using a choke hold that killed a man in February .
According to a statement from the Las Cruces Police Department , on Feb. 29 Las Cruces Police Officer Christopher Smelser `` utilized a vascular neck restraint technique '' which resulted in the death of auto mechanic Antonio Valenzuela .
Police said during a traffic stop Valenzuela , 40 , fled on foot and police chased him , deployed a Taser twice and then restrained him .
Valenzuela died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since prohibited use of vascular neck restraint during apprehensions .
The Las Cruces Police also terminated Smelser 's employment Friday after the medical examiner ruled that Valenzuela 's death was a homicide .
`` Words are insufficient to bring comfort to Antonio Valenzuela 's family , but I extend my sincere condolences for their loss , '' police chief Patrick Gallagher said in a statement .
`` It is a tragic day for everyone involved when there is an in-custody death or a death as a result of a police apprehension .
Once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Medical Investigator 's report , we felt in necessary to immediate initiate termination proceedings . ''

A police officer in Las Cruces, N.M., has been dismissed from his job and charged with manslaughter after a medical examiner ruled the February death of a man during a traffic stop was a homicide. Image via KRQE/ YouTube
June 6 (UPI) -- A police officer in Las Cruces, N.M. has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after using a choke hold that killed a man in February. According to a statement from the Las Cruces Police Department, on Feb. 29 Las Cruces Police Officer Christopher Smelser "utilized a vascular neck restraint technique" which resulted in the death of auto mechanic Antonio Valenzuela. Advertisement
Police said during a traffic stop Valenzuela, 40, fled on foot and police chased him, deployed a Taser twice and then restrained him.
Valenzuela died at the scene. The department has since prohibited use of vascular neck restraint during apprehensions.
The Las Cruces Police also terminated Smelser's employment Friday after the medical examiner ruled that Valenzuela's death was a homicide.
"Words are insufficient to bring comfort to Antonio Valenzuela's family, but I extend my sincere condolences for their loss," police chief Patrick Gallagher said in a statement. "It is a tragic day for everyone involved when there is an in-custody death or a death as a result of a police apprehension. Once we learned of the findings in the Medical Investigator's report, we felt in necessary to immediate initiate termination proceedings."
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upi--2020-06-07--Kevin Harvick dominates at Atlanta Motor Speedway for second win of season

June 7 ( UPI ) -- Kevin Harvick cruised to his second win of the season in Sunday 's Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway .
Competing again in front of no fans , Harvick won for the second time since NASCAR returned from a two-month shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
He won at Darlington in the first race back .
Harvick 's Stewart-Haas Racing No .
4 Ford led a race-high 151 of the 325 laps in Atlanta .
His third-ever win at the Atlanta track marked his 51st career victory in the NASCAR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ned Jarrett and Junior Johnson for the 12th spot on the career wins list .
Back in 2001 , Harvick won his first Cup Series race at Atlanta only three races after he replaced Dale Earnhardt , who died on the final lap of the season-opening Daytona 500 that year .
After that win , Harvick held up three fingers out of his window to honor Earnhardt , who drove the iconic No .
3 Chevrolet .
Harvick continued that long-running tribute to Earnhardt after his win Sunday , doing a reverse victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Obviously , first win for me came here in Atlanta , and this is just a race track that I 've taken a liking to , '' Harvick said after his victory .
`` You always come back and have those memories and now you want to celebrate everything that Dale Earnhardt did for this sport .
To come here and be able to do that with wins and go to victory lane is pretty special . ''
Kyle Busch edged Martin Truex Jr. in the closing laps to secure second place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 65 laps , held on for third .
Ryan Blaney finished fourth , while Denny Hamlin landed in fifth .
Kurt Busch ( sixth ) , Jimmie Johnson ( seventh ) , Chase Elliott ( eighth ) , Brad Keselowski ( ninth ) and Joey Logano ( 10th ) rounded out the top 10 .
NASCAR returned to Atlanta to make up a race that was originally scheduled for March 15 .
It was the first race to be postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak .
Before Sunday 's race began , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unrest in the United States and vowed to do a better job of addressing racial injustice in the wake of George Floyd 's death .
`` Our country is in pain and our people are justifiably angry , demanding to be heard , '' Phelps said .
`` Our sport must do better .
Our country must do better . ''
Wallace , the only African American competing in the Cup Series , wore a black shirt with the words `` I Ca n't Breathe '' and `` Black Lives Matter . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ NASCAR Cup Series continues next Sunday with the Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia .

June 7 (UPI) -- Kevin Harvick cruised to his second win of the season in Sunday's Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Competing again in front of no fans, Harvick won for the second time since NASCAR returned from a two-month shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic. He won at Darlington in the first race back.
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Harvick's Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 Ford led a race-high 151 of the 325 laps in Atlanta. His third-ever win at the Atlanta track marked his 51st career victory in the NASCAR Cup Series, breaking a tie with Ned Jarrett and Junior Johnson for the 12th spot on the career wins list.
Back in 2001, Harvick won his first Cup Series race at Atlanta only three races after he replaced Dale Earnhardt, who died on the final lap of the season-opening Daytona 500 that year. After that win, Harvick held up three fingers out of his window to honor Earnhardt, who drove the iconic No. 3 Chevrolet.
Harvick continued that long-running tribute to Earnhardt after his win Sunday, doing a reverse victory lap while holding up three fingers.
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"Obviously, first win for me came here in Atlanta, and this is just a race track that I've taken a liking to," Harvick said after his victory. "You always come back and have those memories and now you want to celebrate everything that Dale Earnhardt did for this sport. To come here and be able to do that with wins and go to victory lane is pretty special."
Kyle Busch edged Martin Truex Jr. in the closing laps to secure second place. Truex, who led six times for 65 laps, held on for third.
Ryan Blaney finished fourth, while Denny Hamlin landed in fifth. Kurt Busch (sixth), Jimmie Johnson (seventh), Chase Elliott (eighth), Brad Keselowski (ninth) and Joey Logano (10th) rounded out the top 10.
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NASCAR returned to Atlanta to make up a race that was originally scheduled for March 15. It was the first race to be postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Before Sunday's race began, NASCAR president Steve Phelps acknowledged the social unrest in the United States and vowed to do a better job of addressing racial injustice in the wake of George Floyd's death.
"Our country is in pain and our people are justifiably angry, demanding to be heard," Phelps said. "Our sport must do better. Our country must do better."
Wallace, the only African American competing in the Cup Series, wore a black shirt with the words "I Can't Breathe" and "Black Lives Matter." He finished 21st on Sunday.
The NASCAR Cup Series continues next Sunday with the Blue-Emu Maximum Pain Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia.


upi--2020-06-07--Former NFL receiver Reche Caldwell, 41, killed in Florida

June 7 ( UPI ) -- Donald `` Reche '' Caldwell Jr. , who starred at the University of Florida and played six seasons in the NFL as a wide receiver , was killed Saturday night in his hometown of Tampa , Fla .
He was 41 .
Caldwell 's girlfriend and mother confirmed his death to TMZ on Sunday .
Florida -- along with the New England Patriots , Los Angeles Chargers and Washington Redskins -- released statements about Caldwell 's death on social media .
The Tampa Bay Police Department has yet to identify Caldwell as the victim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the news about Reche , '' Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said in a statement Sunday .
`` He is remembered for his solid contributions to our team .
My thoughts and prayers are with Reche 's family . ''
Caldwell 's girlfriend said the former NFL wideout , who was taking her out on a date , was ambushed by a couple of people who jumped out of bushes in an attempt to rob him , according to TMZ .
The outlet said Caldwell was shot in the leg and chest .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a random act , noting that Caldwell was likely targeted .
According to police , Tampa Fire Rescue transported him to a local hospital , where he was pronounced dead .
`` He was a good person who smiled all of the time , '' Caldwell 's mother , Deborah , said .
`` He tried to help everyone he could .
He was the type of guy who would take his shirt off his back and give it to you . ''
After helping lead the Gators to an SEC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caldwell in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft .
He played with the Chargers until 2005 and signed with the Patriots in 2006 .
During his lone season ( 2006 ) in New England , Caldwell led the team with 760 receiving yards .
He was with the Patriots the next off-season until being released at the conclusion of the preseason .
Former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady paid his respects to Caldwell with two posts on his Instagram story Sunday .
Caldwell had a one-year stint with the Redskins in 2007 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the then-St. Louis Rams in 2008 , but he was cut before the start of the regular season .
In 71 career games with the Chargers , Patriots and Redskins , Caldwell caught 152 passes for 1,851 yards and 11 touchdowns .

Former New England Patriots wide receiver Reche Caldwell led the team in receiving yards in 2006. File Photo by Mark Cowan/UPI | License Photo
June 7 (UPI) -- Donald "Reche" Caldwell Jr., who starred at the University of Florida and played six seasons in the NFL as a wide receiver, was killed Saturday night in his hometown of Tampa, Fla. He was 41. Caldwell's girlfriend and mother confirmed his death to TMZ on Sunday. Florida -- along with the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers and Washington Redskins -- released statements about Caldwell's death on social media. Advertisement
The Tampa Bay Police Department has yet to identify Caldwell as the victim.
"I am saddened to hear the news about Reche," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said in a statement Sunday. "He is remembered for his solid contributions to our team. My thoughts and prayers are with Reche's family."
Caldwell's girlfriend said the former NFL wideout, who was taking her out on a date, was ambushed by a couple of people who jumped out of bushes in an attempt to rob him, according to TMZ. The outlet said Caldwell was shot in the leg and chest.
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Police said the incident didn't appear to be a random act, noting that Caldwell was likely targeted. According to police, Tampa Fire Rescue transported him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
"He was a good person who smiled all of the time," Caldwell's mother, Deborah, said. "He tried to help everyone he could. He was the type of guy who would take his shirt off his back and give it to you."
We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Patriot Reche Caldwell. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/mxBtkTXTKD— New England Patriots (@Patriots) June 7, 2020
We are deeply saddened by the loss of former Gator WR Reche Caldwell. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. pic.twitter.com/J86KUj7yEw— Gators Football (@GatorsFB) June 7, 2020
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of former Charger Reche Caldwell. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Reche's family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/vsoj0zeeWP— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) June 7, 2020 Advertisement
We are terribly saddened to hear of the passing of former Redskins WR Reche Caldwell. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Caldwell family along with all of Reche's friends and teammates. pic.twitter.com/0uvTObcNRh— Washington Redskins (@Redskins) June 7, 2020
After helping lead the Gators to an SEC championship in 2000, the Chargers selected Caldwell in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft. He played with the Chargers until 2005 and signed with the Patriots in 2006.
During his lone season (2006) in New England, Caldwell led the team with 760 receiving yards. He was with the Patriots the next off-season until being released at the conclusion of the preseason.
Former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady paid his respects to Caldwell with two posts on his Instagram story Sunday.
Caldwell had a one-year stint with the Redskins in 2007. He went to training camp with the then-St. Louis Rams in 2008, but he was cut before the start of the regular season.
In 71 career games with the Chargers, Patriots and Redskins, Caldwell caught 152 passes for 1,851 yards and 11 touchdowns.
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Notable deaths of 2020


upi--2020-06-07--Minneapolis City Council majority announces plan to disband police department

June 7 ( UPI ) -- A veto-proof majority of the Minneapolis City Council announced a plan to defund the city 's police department on Sunday .
Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender and Council Vice President Andre Jenkins were joined by other council members and activists from Black Visions Collective and Reclaim the Block as they announced the plan to disband the Minneapolis Police Department through the funding process at a rally following the police-involved killing of George Floyd by an MPD officer .
`` It is clear that our system of policing is not keeping our communities safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts at incremental reform have failed , period . ''
Council Members Alondra Cano , Jeremiah Ellison , Steve Fletcher , Cam Gordon and Jeremy Schroder also attended the rally as they formed a nine-member veto-proof supermajority pledging their support to disband the police department and replace it with community-based public safety .
`` Our commitment is to end our city 's toxic relationship with the Minneapolis Police Department , to end policing as we know it and to re-create systems of public safety that actually keep us safe , '' said Bender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ council on Friday voted to approve a measure banning police from using choke holds and other neck restraints and requiring MPD officers to immediately report any instances of unauthorized use of force by fellow officers and attempt to intervene .
On Wednesday , Minnesota authorities escalated the charge against MPD officer Derek Chauvin , the officer seen on video kneeling on Floyd 's neck for nearly nine minutes as he gasped for air , from third-degree murder to second-degree murder .
They also arrested the other three officers present at the scene and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the second-degree .
All four officers had been fired after Floyd was killed while they arrested him outside a Cup Foods store on May 25 when a clerk reported that he used a counterfeit $ 20 bill .
Global protests erupted following news of Floyd 's death calling for police reforms and en end to systemic racism .

June 7 (UPI) -- A veto-proof majority of the Minneapolis City Council announced a plan to defund the city's police department on Sunday.
Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender and Council Vice President Andre Jenkins were joined by other council members and activists from Black Visions Collective and Reclaim the Block as they announced the plan to disband the Minneapolis Police Department through the funding process at a rally following the police-involved killing of George Floyd by an MPD officer.
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"It is clear that our system of policing is not keeping our communities safe," said Bender. "Our efforts at incremental reform have failed, period."
Council Members Alondra Cano, Jeremiah Ellison, Steve Fletcher, Cam Gordon and Jeremy Schroder also attended the rally as they formed a nine-member veto-proof supermajority pledging their support to disband the police department and replace it with community-based public safety.
"Our commitment is to end our city's toxic relationship with the Minneapolis Police Department, to end policing as we know it and to re-create systems of public safety that actually keep us safe," said Bender.
The announcement came after the city council on Friday voted to approve a measure banning police from using choke holds and other neck restraints and requiring MPD officers to immediately report any instances of unauthorized use of force by fellow officers and attempt to intervene.
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On Wednesday, Minnesota authorities escalated the charge against MPD officer Derek Chauvin, the officer seen on video kneeling on Floyd's neck for nearly nine minutes as he gasped for air, from third-degree murder to second-degree murder.
They also arrested the other three officers present at the scene and charged them with aiding and abetting murder in the second-degree.
All four officers had been fired after Floyd was killed while they arrested him outside a Cup Foods store on May 25 when a clerk reported that he used a counterfeit $20 bill.
Global protests erupted following news of Floyd's death calling for police reforms and en end to systemic racism.