upi--2020-03-16--Atlanta Falcons to acquire TE Hayden Hurst in trade with Baltimore Ravens

March 16 ( UPI ) -- The Atlanta Falcons are acquiring former first-round pick Hayden Hurst in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens .
League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Monday that Atlanta will send a 2020 second-round pick and a fifth-round selection to the Ravens in exchange for Hurst and a fourth-round choice in this year 's NFL Draft .
According to ESPN , the Ravens are getting the No .
55 overall pick that the Falcons previously acquired from the New England Patriots in the Mohamed Sanu trade .
The deal ca n't be processed until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hurst will replace former Falcons Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper , who agreed to a massive contract with the Cleveland Browns earlier Monday .
Hooper intends to sign a four-year , $ 42 million pact with the Browns once the new league year starts , making him the highest-paid tight end in the league .
The Ravens selected Hurst in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of South Carolina .
He served as the team 's second tight end behind Pro Bowler Mark Andrews , recording 30 receptions for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Hurst acknowledged the pending trade in a post on social media Monday .
`` Finally have a second to take a breath and soak this in , '' Hurst wrote on Twitter .
`` Thanks to the @ ravens for bringing me in and giving me a chance in the league .
Baltimore was always great to me and I 've got love for the city , always . ''
In 28 games ( four starts ) with the Ravens , Hurst has tallied 43 catches for 512 yards and three touchdowns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offensive tackle Ty Sambrailo and tight end Luke Stocker .
According to NFL Media , the team also plans to release cornerback Desmond Trufant and running back Devonta Freeman , and will allow wide receiver Justin Hardy to enter free agency .

Baltimore Ravens tight end Hayden Hurst (81) caught 30 passes for 349 yards and two touchdowns last season. File Photo by David Tulis/UPI | License Photo
March 16 (UPI) -- The Atlanta Falcons are acquiring former first-round pick Hayden Hurst in a trade with the Baltimore Ravens. League sources told ESPN and NFL Media on Monday that Atlanta will send a 2020 second-round pick and a fifth-round selection to the Ravens in exchange for Hurst and a fourth-round choice in this year's NFL Draft. According to ESPN, the Ravens are getting the No. 55 overall pick that the Falcons previously acquired from the New England Patriots in the Mohamed Sanu trade. Advertisement
The deal can't be processed until the new league year begins Wednesday.
Hurst will replace former Falcons Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper, who agreed to a massive contract with the Cleveland Browns earlier Monday. Hooper intends to sign a four-year, $42 million pact with the Browns once the new league year starts, making him the highest-paid tight end in the league.
The Ravens selected Hurst in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of South Carolina. He served as the team's second tight end behind Pro Bowler Mark Andrews, recording 30 receptions for 349 yards and two touchdowns last season.
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Hurst acknowledged the pending trade in a post on social media Monday.
"Finally have a second to take a breath and soak this in," Hurst wrote on Twitter. "Thanks to the @ravens for bringing me in and giving me a chance in the league. Baltimore was always great to me and I've got love for the city, always."
Finally have a second to take a breath and soak this in. Thanks to the @ravens for brining me in and giving me a chance in the league. Baltimore was always great to me and I've got love for the city, always. This is what we sign up for ! Let's get to work @AtlantaFalcons #RiseUp— Hayden Hurst (@haydenrhurst) March 16, 2020
In 28 games (four starts) with the Ravens, Hurst has tallied 43 catches for 512 yards and three touchdowns.
Earlier Monday, the Falcons released offensive tackle Ty Sambrailo and tight end Luke Stocker. According to NFL Media, the team also plans to release cornerback Desmond Trufant and running back Devonta Freeman, and will allow wide receiver Justin Hardy to enter free agency.


upi--2020-03-16--Joe Biden wins Washington Democratic primary

March 16 ( UPI ) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden won the Washington state Democratic primary , news outlets @ @ @ @ @ 99 percent of the vote counted on Monday evening , CNN and NBC projected that @ @ @ @ @ 's election garnering 37.9 percent of the vote to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders ' 36.4 @ @ @ @ @ slated to be tied for delegates , each receiving 39 of the state 's 89 @ @ @ @ @ overall delegate count over Sanders after strong showings on Super Tuesday and last week 's @ @ @ @ @ Thursday , however , took the largest Super Tuesday prize , winning the California primary @ @ @ @ @ Sunday night , largely focused on the COVID-19 outbreak , the pair will prepare for @ @ @ @ @ Arizona and Illinois on Tuesday .
Ohio Gov .
Mike DeWine on Tuesday said the @ @ @ @ @ would order the polls closed on Monday night after a judge denied his request to @ @ @ @ @ .

Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden won the Washington state primary election, media outlets projected on Monday. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
March 16 (UPI) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden won the Washington state Democratic primary, news outlets projected on Monday. With 99 percent of the vote counted on Monday evening, CNN and NBC projected that Biden narrowly won the state's election garnering 37.9 percent of the vote to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders' 36.4 percent. Advertisement
The pair are slated to be tied for delegates, each receiving 39 of the state's 89 delegates.
Biden leads the overall delegate count over Sanders after strong showings on Super Tuesday and last week's primary elections.
Sanders on Thursday, however, took the largest Super Tuesday prize, winning the California primary.
After a debate on Sunday night, largely focused on the COVID-19 outbreak, the pair will prepare for elections scheduled in Florida, Arizona and Illinois on Tuesday.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on Tuesday said the state's Department of Health would order the polls closed on Monday night after a judge denied his request to delay the election until June.


upi--2020-03-17--Joe Biden gets win in Florida as three states stage Tuesday primaries

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden tallied an early win in Florida 's primary election , news outlets projected Tuesday night .
Biden was projected to win Florida according to CNN and NBC News .
He had about 61 percent of the vote compared to 22 percent for Sen. Bernie Sanders , I-Vt. , with about two-thirds of votes counted .
Florida carries 219 pledged delegates , making it one of the most coveted primary states .
Polls close later in Arizona and Illinois on Tuesday , with all three states offering up a total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Biden is expected to win handily in all three states and add to his delegate lead over Sanders .
The complications over the primaries due to the coronavirus outbreak have cut the number of poll workers and may hamper voter turnout .
Ohio , in the meantime , pulled the plug on its primary early Tuesday following several wild hours of maneuvering .
In legal wrangling that went into Tuesday morning , the Ohio Supreme Court stepped in to postpone its primary , denying a legal challenge from a candidate in Wood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state 's effort to delay the vote violated state election law .
Gov .
Mike DeWine tried Monday to postpone the election but a Franklin County judge denied his request , saying it 's too late since the polls were set to open within hours .
After failing to appeal the move , Amy Acton , director of the Ohio Health Department , issued her own order to close the polls .
Acton 's order said the delay is necessary `` to avoid the imminent threat with a high probability of widespread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of substantial harm to a large number of the people in the general population , including the elderly and people with weakened immune systems and chronic medical conditions . ''
The state 's Supreme Court agreed .
The Ohio Democratic primary , which will award 136 delegates , has not yet been set for a future date .
Arizona 's most populous county , Maricopa , also closed most of its polling places for safety reasons because of the virus .
The state said it will operate 150 `` vote centers , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where voters live .
Voters also had an opportunity to vote by mail as well .
Sixty-one delegates are awarded in Arizona .
Florida Gov .
Ron DeSantis ordered election authorities to close all polling places in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities there , but polling places were open normally .
The state has 219 delegates .
In Illinois , polling places in schools and other locations were closed due to the coronavirus .
The state , which has 155 delegates , faces a poll worker shortage and state officials expect a low @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an untenable position at this point , and we understand and refuse to punish the [ election ] judges whose age or health condition might prevent them from going out , '' said Marisel Hernandez , chair of the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners .
`` [ We are ] bracing for the most difficult election , under the most trying of times . ''

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Former Vice President Joe Biden swept Tuesday's three-state primary, widening his delegate lead over Sen. Bernie Sanders. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- Former Vice President Joe Biden swept Tuesday's three-state primary, news outlets projected. Biden was projected to win Florida, Illinois and Arizona according to CNN and NBC News, widening his delegate lead over. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., in the Democratic presidential primary. Advertisement
"Our campaign has had a very good night," Biden said in a message broadcast from his home in Delaware instead of before a crowd of supporters to adhere to guidelines against gatherings of more than 10 people due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
"We move closer to securing the Democratic Party's nomination for president and we're doing it by building a broad coalition that we need to win in November," he said.
A total of 441 delegates were available on Tuesday as Florida carries 219 pledged delegates, making it one of the most coveted primary states, while Illinois holds 155, and Arizona carries 67.
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GOP President Donald Trump was also projected to have gathered enough delegates to win the Republican nomination with a win in Illinois.
Biden made an appeal to Sanders' supporters, saying he and the senator share a common vision and praising his supporters for bringing "a remarkable passion and tenacity" to the issues at hand in the election.
"So let me say, especially to the young voters who have been inspired by Sen. Sanders: I hear you. I know what's at stake. I know what we have to do."
He also called for unity as the country deals with the COVID-19 pandemic.
"You know, it's in moments like these we realize we need to put politics aside and work together as Americans," Biden said. "The coronavirus doesn't care if you're a Democrat or Republican."
The complications over the primaries due to the coronavirus outbreak have cut the number of poll workers and may hamper voter turnout.
Ohio pulled the plug on its primary early Tuesday following several wild hours of maneuvering.
In legal wrangling that went into Tuesday morning, the Ohio Supreme Court stepped in to postpone its primary, denying a legal challenge from a candidate in Wood County, near Toledo, who argued the state's effort to delay the vote violated state election law.
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Gov. Mike DeWine tried Monday to postpone the election but a Franklin County judge denied his request, saying it was too late since the polls were set to open within hours. After failing to appeal the move, Amy Acton, director of the Ohio Health Department, issued her own order to close the polls.
Acton's order said the delay is necessary "to avoid the imminent threat with a high probability of widespread exposure to COVID-19 with a significant risk of substantial harm to a large number of the people in the general population, including the elderly and people with weakened immune systems and chronic medical conditions."
The state's Supreme Court agreed. The Ohio Democratic primary, which will award 136 delegates, has not yet been set for a future date.
Arizona's most populous county, Maricopa, also closed most of its polling places for safety reasons because of the virus. The state said it would operate 150 "vote centers," where ballots could be cast regardless of where voters live. Voters also had an opportunity to vote by mail.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered election authorities to close all polling places in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities, but polling places elsewhere were open normally.
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In Illinois, polling places in schools and other locations were closed due to the coronavirus. The state faces a poll worker shortage and state officials expected a low voter turnout.
"We are in an untenable position at this point, and we understand and refuse to punish the [election] judges whose age or health condition might prevent them from going out," said Marisel Hernandez, chair of the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners. "[We are] bracing for the most difficult election, under the most trying of times."


upi--2020-03-17--NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio warns of possible shelter-in-place order

March 17 ( UPI ) -- New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Tuesday warned residents they should prepare for possibly sheltering in place in the next couple days as part of the city 's plan to combat coronavirus .
He issued the warning during a news conference about the city 's fight to stop the spread of COVID-19 .
De Blasio 's warning came on the same day the U.S. death toll from the coronavirus surpassed 100 , according to figures from Johns Hopkins University .
The school 's interactive global tracker said there are 6,330 confirmed cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The U.S. Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention said there were 75 deaths and 4,226 confirmed cases as of Monday afternoon .
New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo said , though , that a shelter-in-place order for the nation 's largest city was n't imminent , .
`` The emergency policies that have been issued are of statewide impact , and the governor is making every effort to coordinate these policies with our surrounding states , '' Melissa DeRosa , a top aide to Mr. Cuomo , said in a statement to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blanket quarantine or shelter in place policy would require state action and as the governor has said , there is no consideration of that for any locality at this time . ''
De Blasio 's remarks come one day after several counties in the San Francisco Bay area ordered residents to shelter in place to stem the spread of the virus .
All residents in the area were prevented from leaving their homes except for `` essential needs '' until April 7 .
De Blasio said a shelter-in-place order , if implemented , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responders and healthcare workers .
He said 1,500 people in the state tested positive for the virus as of Tuesday , up from 950 the day before .
`` We are certainly going to have thousands of cases next week , '' he said .
`` It is not that long before we hit 10,000 cases , that is a true statement . ''
In Florida , Gov .
Ron DeSantis on Tuesday ordered all bars and night clubs to shut down for 30 days and all restaurants to operate at half capacity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Boca Raton and Miami Beach closed their beaches to the public , DeSantis said the state 's other beaches will remain open but people must be in groups of 10 or smalle in accordance with federal guidelines .

Commuters walk in a near-empty Grand Central Station Terminal on Monday morning in New York City. Mayor Bill de Blasio told residents to prepare for the possibility of a shelter-in-place order in the city. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Tuesday warned residents they should prepare for possibly sheltering in place in the next couple days as part of the city's plan to combat coronavirus. He issued the warning during a news conference about the city's fight to stop the spread of COVID-19. Advertisement
"It's a difficult, difficult decision," he told reporters.
De Blasio's warning came on the same day the U.S. death toll from the coronavirus surpassed 100, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University. The school's interactive global tracker said there are 6,330 confirmed cases of the disease in the country.
The U.S. Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention said there were 75 deaths and 4,226 confirmed cases as of Monday afternoon.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said, though, that a shelter-in-place order for the nation's largest city wasn't imminent,.
"The emergency policies that have been issued are of statewide impact, and the governor is making every effort to coordinate these policies with our surrounding states," Melissa DeRosa, a top aide to Mr. Cuomo, said in a statement to The New York Times. "Any blanket quarantine or shelter in place policy would require state action and as the governor has said, there is no consideration of that for any locality at this time."
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De Blasio's remarks come one day after several counties in the San Francisco Bay area ordered residents to shelter in place to stem the spread of the virus. All residents in the area were prevented from leaving their homes except for "essential needs" until April 7.
Join us at City Hall with an update on our city's response to COVID-19. https://t.co/1RX7B63yMI— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 17, 2020
De Blasio said a shelter-in-place order, if implemented, would limit all outdoor travel to first responders and healthcare workers. He said 1,500 people in the state tested positive for the virus as of Tuesday, up from 950 the day before.
"We are certainly going to have thousands of cases next week," he said. "It is not that long before we hit 10,000 cases, that is a true statement."
In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday ordered all bars and night clubs to shut down for 30 days and all restaurants to operate at half capacity.
Though the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton and Miami Beach closed their beaches to the public, DeSantis said the state's other beaches will remain open but people must be in groups of 10 or smalle in accordance with federal guidelines.


upi--2020-03-17--Ex-Patriots QB Tom Brady reaches agreement with Buccaneers

March 17 ( UPI ) -- After announcing his departure from the New England Patriots earlier Tuesday , star quarterback Tom Brady has an agreement in principle to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers .
League sources told ESPN and NFL Media that Brady is expected to sign with the Buccaneers once the new league year begins Wednesday .
According to NFL Media , the deal is worth about $ 30 million per year .
Before reaching an agreement with the Buccaneers , the six-time Super Bowl champion said goodbye to the Patriots in a post on social media , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I do n't know what my football future holds but it is time for me to open a new stage for my life and career , '' Brady said in a statement posted on Twitter .
`` I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I will always love you and what we have shared -- a lifetime full of fun memories . ''
Brady completed 60.8 percent of his passes for 4,057 yards , 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 16 starts last season .
The future Hall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 12-4 record before losing to the Tennessee Titans in the AFC wild-card round .
Since entering the league as a sixth-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft , Brady has posted a 219-64 record in the regular season and a 30-11 mark in the postseason .
The 42-year-old signal-caller is a four-time Super Bowl MVP and three-time league MVP .
Brady could return to Foxborough in 2021 , as the Patriots are scheduled to host the Buccaneers that season .

Former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady won six Super Bowls and three league MVP awards with the franchise. File Photo by Matthew Healey/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- After announcing his departure from the New England Patriots earlier Tuesday, star quarterback Tom Brady has an agreement in principle to sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. League sources told ESPN and NFL Media that Brady is expected to sign with the Buccaneers once the new league year begins Wednesday. According to NFL Media, the deal is worth about $30 million per year. Advertisement
Before reaching an agreement with the Buccaneers, the six-time Super Bowl champion said goodbye to the Patriots in a post on social media, ending his 20-year run with the franchise.
"I don't know what my football future holds but it is time for me to open a new stage for my life and career," Brady said in a statement posted on Twitter. "I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I will always love you and what we have shared -- a lifetime full of fun memories."
LOVE YOU PATS NATION pic.twitter.com/lxSQZmnjPL— Tom Brady (@TomBrady) March 17, 2020 Advertisement
Brady completed 60.8 percent of his passes for 4,057 yards, 24 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 16 starts last season. The future Hall of Fame quarterback guided the Patriots to a 12-4 record before losing to the Tennessee Titans in the AFC wild-card round.
Since entering the league as a sixth-round pick in the 2000 NFL Draft, Brady has posted a 219-64 record in the regular season and a 30-11 mark in the postseason. The 42-year-old signal-caller is a four-time Super Bowl MVP and three-time league MVP.
Brady could return to Foxborough in 2021, as the Patriots are scheduled to host the Buccaneers that season.


upi--2020-03-17--Facebook offers $100M to small businesses affected by COVID-19

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Facebook said Tuesday it will offer $ 100 million in grants to small businesses in dozens of countries that have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic .
Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg said the funds are intended to support 30,000 small businesses in more than 30 nations where the social media company has employees .
`` Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities , and many of the people who run these businesses are heavily affected by the crisis -- especially as more and more people sensibly stay home , '' she wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer the crisis goes on , the greater the risk to small businesses and to the livelihoods of their owners and employees . ''
In addition to the grants , Sandberg said , Facebook is making its Business Hub open and available at no cost to everyone seeking training and support from the company .
Facebook will offer virtual training to small businesses on how to operate during the crisis .
Also Tuesday , Facebook said it 's giving each of its employees a $ 1,000 bonus to help them deal with fallout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told CNN the funds are to help employees set up home offices or pay for childcare .
Facebook has about 45,000 employees across the globe .
CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced last week that Facebook would match $ 20 million in donations to fight the spread of COVID-19 .
Of that , $ 10 million will go to the CDC Foundation , an independent non-profit created by Congress to support the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 's connection to philanthropic efforts .
Facebook created the COVID-19 Solidarity Fund with the United Nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and detect the virus .
As of Tuesday afternoon , $ 3.8 million had been raised of the $ 10 million goal .

In addition to the grants, Facebook is making its Business Hub open and available at no cost to everyone seeking training and support. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- Facebook said Tuesday it will offer $100 million in grants to small businesses in dozens of countries that have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg said the funds are intended to support 30,000 small businesses in more than 30 nations where the social media company has employees. Advertisement
"Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities, and many of the people who run these businesses are heavily affected by the crisis -- especially as more and more people sensibly stay home," she wrote in a Facebook post.
"The longer the crisis goes on, the greater the risk to small businesses and to the livelihoods of their owners and employees."
In addition to the grants, Sandberg said, Facebook is making its Business Hub open and available at no cost to everyone seeking training and support from the company. Facebook will offer virtual training to small businesses on how to operate during the crisis.
Also Tuesday, Facebook said it's giving each of its employees a $1,000 bonus to help them deal with fallout from the epidemic. A company official told CNN the funds are to help employees set up home offices or pay for childcare.
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Facebook has about 45,000 employees across the globe.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced last week that Facebook would match $20 million in donations to fight the spread of COVID-19. Of that, $10 million will go to the CDC Foundation, an independent non-profit created by Congress to support the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's connection to philanthropic efforts. Facebook created the COVID-19 Solidarity Fund with the United Nations Foundation and World Health Organization to prevent and detect the virus. As of Tuesday afternoon, $3.8 million had been raised of the $10 million goal.


upi--2020-03-17--Income tax deadline to be delayed 90 days as part of $1T coronavirus stimulus package

March 17 ( UPI ) -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Tuesday that U.S. taxpayers will receive a three-month extension to pay their income taxes as part of a $ 1 trillion economic stimulus program in response to the COVID-19 outbreak .
The federal government will provide an additional 90 days for business filers and individual filers to defer income tax payments of up to $ 1 million while corporations will be able to pay up to $ 10 million in payments beyond the April 15 deadline without incurring interest or penalties .
Speaking at a White House briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , however , encouraged Americans who are able to file their taxes to continue to do so by April 15 to receive their tax refunds .
`` For many Americans , you will get tax refunds .
We do n't want you to lose out on those tax refunds , '' he said .
Mnuchin also provided new details about the mega-stimulus plan that 's designed to help business and Americans cope with economic fallout and isolation , which includes payments to small businesses , loan guarantees to travel industries and stimulus for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of $ 1,000 payments for Americans who meet certain income guidelines .
`` You can think of this as something like business interruption payments for the American workers , '' he said , adding that he would like to see the stimulus payments sent out within two weeks .
`` I think it 's clear we do n't need to send people who make a million dollars a year checks , but [ check payments are ] one of the ideas we like , '' he added .
`` We 're going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking about details afterward .
`` This is critical to American workers , it 's critical to American business , and it 's critical to American savers who have a lot of that money in money market funds , '' the Treasury chief said .
`` We heard loud and clear there were liquidity issues , this is very significant . ''
President Donald Trump said the United States will rebound `` stronger than ever '' after beating the virus .
`` If we do this right , our country and the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pretty quickly , '' he said .
`` We have to fight that invisible enemy that I guess is unknown , but we 're getting to know it a lot better . ''
Mnuchin said he plans to meet with Senate Republicans to forge details of the package and hopes to finalize it by the end of Tuesday .
In response to the airline industry 's call for help , about $ 50 billion in the package is earmarked to help American carriers with lack of passenger demand during the coronavirus interruption , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 9/11 . ''
It 's unclear exactly how the package would distribute the payments to Americans .
Trump had earlier raised the possibility of a payroll tax cut , but he said Tuesday he now prefers doing so another way to deliver the aid quickly .
`` We 're giving relief to affected industries and small businesses , and we 're ensuring that we emerge from this challenge with a prosperous and growing economy , because that 's what 's going to happen , '' Trump said .
Meanwhile , in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his GOP colleagues to `` gag and vote '' for a multi-billion-dollar House bill to provide relief .
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act package was sent to the Senate on Monday and senators could vote as early as Tuesday .
`` We 're able to rise above our normal partisanship and many times our normal positions , because these are not ordinary times .
This is not an ordinary time , '' McConnell said .
The legislation includes free COVID-19 testing for anyone in need , paid sick leave and enhanced unemployment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frontline workers , increased federal funds for Medicaid and more than $ 1 billion to strengthen food security initiatives .
McConnell said the Senate wants to pass another , more comprehensive bill and the Senate will not leave town for a recess until that is done .
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer also proposed more extensive coronavirus relief Tuesday , including student loan and mortgage payment forbearance , assistance for public transportation , medicine and food delivery for seniors , help for small businesses , affordable coronavirus treatment , greater capacity at hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding .

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Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin delivers remarks alongside President Donald Trump during a briefing on the coronavirus pandemic Tuesday. Photo Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Tuesday that U.S. taxpayers will receive a three-month extension to pay their income taxes as part of a $1 trillion economic stimulus program in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The federal government will provide an additional 90 days for business filers and individual filers to defer income tax payments of up to $1 million while corporations will be able to pay up to $10 million in payments beyond the April 15 deadline without incurring interest or penalties. Advertisement
Speaking at a White House briefing with the Coronavirus Task Force, Mnuchin, however, encouraged Americans who are able to file their taxes to continue to do so by April 15 to receive their tax refunds.
"For many Americans, you will get tax refunds. We don't want you to lose out on those tax refunds," he said.
Advertisement
Mnuchin also provided new details about the mega-stimulus plan that's designed to help business and Americans cope with economic fallout and isolation, which includes payments to small businesses, loan guarantees to travel industries and stimulus for American workers -- possibly in the form of $1,000 payments for Americans who meet certain income guidelines.
"You can think of this as something like business interruption payments for the American workers," he said, adding that he would like to see the stimulus payments sent out within two weeks.
"I think it's clear we don't need to send people who make a million dollars a year checks, but [check payments are] one of the ideas we like," he added. "We're going to preview that today and we'll be talking about details afterward.
"This is critical to American workers, it's critical to American business, and it's critical to American savers who have a lot of that money in money market funds," the Treasury chief said. "We heard loud and clear there were liquidity issues, this is very significant."
President Donald Trump said the United States will rebound "stronger than ever" after beating the virus.
"If we do this right, our country and the world, frankly ... can be rolling again pretty quickly," he said. "We have to fight that invisible enemy that I guess is unknown, but we're getting to know it a lot better."
Advertisement
Mnuchin said he plans to meet with Senate Republicans to forge details of the package and hopes to finalize it by the end of Tuesday.
In response to the airline industry's call for help, about $50 billion in the package is earmarked to help American carriers with lack of passenger demand during the coronavirus interruption, which Mnuchin said has been "worse than 9/11."
It's unclear exactly how the package would distribute the payments to Americans. Trump had earlier raised the possibility of a payroll tax cut, but he said Tuesday he now prefers doing so another way to deliver the aid quickly.
"We're giving relief to affected industries and small businesses, and we're ensuring that we emerge from this challenge with a prosperous and growing economy, because that's what's going to happen," Trump said.
Meanwhile, in the Senate, Republican leader Mitch McConnell urged his GOP colleagues to "gag and vote" for a multi-billion-dollar House bill to provide relief. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act package was sent to the Senate on Monday and senators could vote as early as Tuesday.
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"We're able to rise above our normal partisanship and many times our normal positions, because these are not ordinary times. This is not an ordinary time," McConnell said.
The legislation includes free COVID-19 testing for anyone in need, paid sick leave and enhanced unemployment insurance. It also contains protections for frontline workers, increased federal funds for Medicaid and more than $1 billion to strengthen food security initiatives.
McConnell said the Senate wants to pass another, more comprehensive bill and the Senate will not leave town for a recess until that is done.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer also proposed more extensive coronavirus relief Tuesday, including student loan and mortgage payment forbearance, assistance for public transportation, medicine and food delivery for seniors, help for small businesses, affordable coronavirus treatment, greater capacity at hospitals, and expanded unemployment insurance and Medicaid funding.


upi--2020-03-17--'Wonder Woman,' 'Carol Burnett' actor Lyle Waggoner dies

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Wonder Woman and The Carol Burnett Show actor Lyle Waggoner died Tuesday after a long illness , his family announced .
He was 84 .
His son Jason told The Hollywood Press of his father 's passing .
TMZ first reported the news .
Waggoner played Steve Trevor , Wonder Woman ( Lynda Carter ) 's World War II Air Force pilot companion in the 1970s TV series .
Chris Pine plays the role in the current Wonder Woman movies .
Prior to Wonder Woman , Waggoner was part of the sketch troupe on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show 's announcer .
He 'd had TV guest spots since his first appearance on Gunsmoke in 1966 .
In his later career , Waggoner continued acting until 2005 .
His last credit is an episode of the Fox sitcom The War at Home .
The three seasons of Wonder Woman were the longest Waggoner ever played a single character .
Most of his roles were guest spots .
He played three different characters each on The Love Boat and Fantasy Island .
Waggoner also auditioned for the role of Bruce Wayne in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eventually went to Adam West .
Footage of his screen test is available to see on YouTube .
He also found success behind the scenes , founding Star Waggons , a company that provides trailers to film and television productions .

Lyle Waggoner of "Wonder Woman" and "The Carol Burnett Show" fame has died at 84. File Photo courtesy of ABC Studios/Wikimedia Commons
March 17 (UPI) -- Wonder Woman and The Carol Burnett Show actor Lyle Waggoner died Tuesday after a long illness, his family announced. He was 84. His son Jason told The Hollywood Press of his father's passing. TMZ first reported the news. Advertisement
Waggoner played Steve Trevor, Wonder Woman (Lynda Carter)'s World War II Air Force pilot companion in the 1970s TV series. Chris Pine plays the role in the current Wonder Woman movies.
Prior to Wonder Woman, Waggoner was part of the sketch troupe on The Carol Burnett Show, and the show's announcer. He'd had TV guest spots since his first appearance on Gunsmoke in 1966.
In his later career, Waggoner continued acting until 2005. His last credit is an episode of the Fox sitcom The War at Home.
The three seasons of Wonder Woman were the longest Waggoner ever played a single character. Most of his roles were guest spots. He played three different characters each on The Love Boat and Fantasy Island.
Waggoner also auditioned for the role of Bruce Wayne in the 1965 Batman TV series, which eventually went to Adam West. Footage of his screen test is available to see on YouTube.
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He also found success behind the scenes, founding Star Waggons, a company that provides trailers to film and television productions.
Notable deaths of 2020


upi--2020-03-17--Former Los Angeles Chargers QB Philip Rivers to sign with Indianapolis Colts

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Former longtime Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers agreed to a short-term contract with the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday .
League sources told ESPN and NFL Media that Rivers and the Colts reached an agreement on a one-year , $ 25 million deal .
The pact ca n't be processed until the new league year begins Wednesday .
Rivers will replace Jacoby Brissett as the Colts ' starting quarterback next season .
Brissett received a two-year contract from the Colts last September after franchise signal-caller Andrew Luck abruptly announced his retirement from the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5-2 start last season , but a knee injury and accuracy issues caused the team to struggle toward the end of the 2019 campaign .
Indianapolis lost seven of its final nine games and missed the postseason for the fourth time in the last five seasons .
Rivers will join a Colts team that returns one of the league 's top offensive lines .
He will also be helped by a rushing attack that finished seventh in the NFL last season .
The Chargers originally acquired Rivers in a 2004 draft-day trade with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Rivers served as the Chargers ' starting quarterback since the 2006 season before mutually parting ways with the franchise earlier this off-season .
Rivers struggled in his final season in Los Angeles , completing 66 percent of his passes for 4,615 yards and 23 touchdowns .
He turned the ball over 23 times in 2019 after recording 24 turnovers in the previous two seasons combined .
Rivers , 38 , leaves the Chargers as their franchise leader in 30 different categories , including passing yards ( 59,271 ) and touchdown passes ( @ @ @

Former Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (pictured) agreed to a one-year, $25 million deal with the Indianapolis Colts. He will replace Jacoby Brissett as the team's starter. File Photo by Jon SooHoo/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- Former longtime Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers agreed to a short-term contract with the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday. League sources told ESPN and NFL Media that Rivers and the Colts reached an agreement on a one-year, $25 million deal. The pact can't be processed until the new league year begins Wednesday. Advertisement
Rivers will replace Jacoby Brissett as the Colts' starting quarterback next season. Brissett received a two-year contract from the Colts last September after franchise signal-caller Andrew Luck abruptly announced his retirement from the league.
Brissett guided the Colts to a 5-2 start last season, but a knee injury and accuracy issues caused the team to struggle toward the end of the 2019 campaign. Indianapolis lost seven of its final nine games and missed the postseason for the fourth time in the last five seasons.
Rivers will join a Colts team that returns one of the league's top offensive lines. He will also be helped by a rushing attack that finished seventh in the NFL last season.
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The Chargers originally acquired Rivers in a 2004 draft-day trade with the New York Giants for Eli Manning. Rivers served as the Chargers' starting quarterback since the 2006 season before mutually parting ways with the franchise earlier this off-season.
Rivers struggled in his final season in Los Angeles, completing 66 percent of his passes for 4,615 yards and 23 touchdowns. He turned the ball over 23 times in 2019 after recording 24 turnovers in the previous two seasons combined.
Rivers, 38, leaves the Chargers as their franchise leader in 30 different categories, including passing yards (59,271) and touchdown passes (397).


upi--2020-03-17--China expels U.S. journalists from New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post

March 17 ( UPI ) -- China on Tuesday moved to expel American journalists working for multiple U.S. news outlets in what it described as a `` countermeasure '' to restrictions on Chinese media in the United States .
China 's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that journalists from The New York Times , The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post who are U.S. citizens and whose press credentials are due to expire before the end of the year return their press cards within 10 days .
`` They will not be allowed to continue working as journalists in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including its Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions , '' the foreign ministry said .
The Chinese government also ordered Chinese branches of Voice of America , The New York Times , The Wall Street Journal , The Washington Post and Time to declare information about their staff , finance , operation and real estate in the country .
The ministry said the moves were made in response to the U.S. government placing `` unwarranted restrictions '' on Chinese media in the United States including ordering Chinese media organizations to register as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entities as foreign missions .
In response , the country said it would take reciprocal measures against American journalists for the `` discriminatory restrictions '' the United States has imposed on Chinese journalists with regard to visa , administrative review and reporting .
`` The above-mentioned measures are entirely necessary and reciprocal countermeasures that China is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the U.S. , '' the Ministry of Financial Affairs said .
The U.S. National Security Council condemned China 's decision , describing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Chinese people and the world of access to true information about China , '' while calling on the Chinese government to instead turn its attention toward combatting the COVID-19 outbreak .

China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday announced it will expel U.S. journalists for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post in response to what it called "unwarranted restrictions" on Chinese media in the United States. File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- China on Tuesday moved to expel American journalists working for multiple U.S. news outlets in what it described as a "countermeasure" to restrictions on Chinese media in the United States. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that journalists from The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post who are U.S. citizens and whose press credentials are due to expire before the end of the year return their press cards within 10 days. Advertisement
"They will not be allowed to continue working as journalists in the People's Republic of China, including its Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions," the foreign ministry said.
The Chinese government also ordered Chinese branches of Voice of America, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post and Time to declare information about their staff, finance, operation and real estate in the country.
The ministry said the moves were made in response to the U.S. government placing "unwarranted restrictions" on Chinese media in the United States including ordering Chinese media organizations to register as foreign agents and designating five Chinese media entities as foreign missions.
In response, the country said it would take reciprocal measures against American journalists for the "discriminatory restrictions" the United States has imposed on Chinese journalists with regard to visa, administrative review and reporting.
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"The above-mentioned measures are entirely necessary and reciprocal countermeasures that China is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the U.S.," the Ministry of Financial Affairs said.
The U.S. National Security Council condemned China's decision, describing it as "another step toward depriving the Chinese people and the world of access to true information about China," while calling on the Chinese government to instead turn its attention toward combatting the COVID-19 outbreak.


upi--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant reveals positive test

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Four Brooklyn Nets players , including superstar forward Kevin Durant , have tested positive for the coronavirus , the team announced Tuesday .
In the Nets ' statement , which did n't identify players who tested positive , the team said only one individual is exhibiting symptoms .
All four are isolated and are receiving medical care from team physicians .
`` Four Brooklyn Nets players have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus , '' the team said .
`` Of the four , one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has had known contact with the players , including recent opponents , and is working closely with state and local health authorities on reporting .
`` All players and members of the Nets travel party are being asked to remain isolated , closely monitor their health and maintain constant communication with team medical staff .
The health of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible . ''
Durant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four players on the team to test positive for the virus .
He told The Athletic that he was `` feeling fine '' despite the diagnosis .
He did not play this season before it was suspended because he is recovering from a major Achilles injury .
`` Everyone be careful , take care of yourself and quarantine , '' Durant said , according to The Athletic .
`` We 're going to get through this . ''
The four Nets players joined Utah Jazz stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell and Detroit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players known to have tested positive for the virus .
Brooklyn did n't play the Jazz or the Pistons in the two weeks before the season was put on hold .
The 2020 French Open tennis tournament was moved Tuesday from May 18 to Sept. 20 in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` We have made a difficult , yet brave , decision in this unprecedented situation , which has evolved greatly since last weekend , '' French Tennis Federation president Bernard Giudicelli said .
`` We are acting responsibly , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure everybody 's health and safety . ''
Main draw matches for the tournament were scheduled to start May 24 at Roland Garros in Paris .
The tournament had been scheduled to end June 7 , but will now end Oct. 4 .
The French Open is the first Grand Slam to be impacted by the coronavirus .
Wimbledon 2020 is the next Grand Slam scheduled , followed by the U.S. Open .
The Australian Open was the first Grand Slam of the 2020 season .
`` Though nobody is able to predict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 , the current confinement measures have made it impossible for us to continue with our preparations and , as a result , we are unable to hold the tournament on the dates originally planned , '' the French Tennis Federation said .
The rescheduling of the French Open follows Monday 's decision by the Women 's Tennis Association to suspend its tour until May 2 amid the coronavirus outbreak .
The ATP Tour and International Tennis Federation announced last week they were suspending play for six weeks .
The coronavirus outbreak has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently pushing two major soccer tournaments to 2021 and infecting more than one-third of the players on the roster for La Liga club Valencia .
UEFA announced Tuesday that Euro 2020 will move from June 12 to July 12 , 2020 , to June 11 to July 11 , 2021 , due to the coronavirus outbreak .
`` Football is an uplifting and powerful force in society , '' UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a news release .
`` The thought of celebrating a pan-European festival of football in empty stadiums , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sits at home in isolation , is a joyless one and one we could not accept to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the competition , '' Ceferin said .
The South American Football Confederation announced Tuesday that the Copa America also has been delayed and will be played on the same days as Euro 2021 .
`` It was not easy for CONMEBOL to make this decision , but we must always protect the health of our athletes and all agents that are part of the great family of South American football , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a statement .
`` Have no doubt that the oldest international tournament in the world will return with renewed strength in 2021 , ready to make the continent and the whole world vibrate again with the passion that always characterizes us . ''
Valencia on Sunday reported five positive coronavirus tests among players and the staff .
The La Liga club said Sunday that more than one-third of the players on its first team tested positive , but show no symptoms of the coronavirus .
`` Despite the strict measures adopted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ game against Atlanta on Feb. 19 in Milan -- an area confirmed as 'high risk ' by the Italian authorities days afterward -- these latest results show that the exposure inherent to such matches has caused a positive test rate of around 35 percent , '' Valencia said .
The La Liga club said the infected players and staff members are isolated at home , receiving medical assessments and carrying out their scheduled training programs .
La Liga is one of the many top soccer leagues that suspended matches amid the outbreak .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Olympic officials say the Summer Games are still set to start on time .
Australian Olympic Committee president and International Olympic Committee vice president John Coates told the Sydney Morning Herald that there is no May deadline to decide whether the Games will be canceled .
Coates ' announcement of no Olympic deadline comes after senior International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound suggested the May deadline and said the Summer Games might be canceled -- instead of being moved -- if the coronavirus outbreak is not controlled .
`` The IOC did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with , and I think Dick backed off that as well , '' Coates said .
`` It 's all proceeding to start on the 24th of July . ''
News of the Olympic schedule came hours before Japanese Olympic Committee vice president and Japanese Football Association president Kozo Tashima said Tuesday he tested positive for the coronavirus .
Tashima visited cities in Europe and the United States for soccer events from Feb. 28 to March 8 before testing positive for the virus .
`` I pray that the Olympics and all sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the world , '' Tashima told the JFA .
Tashima said he will not be able to attend the first leg of the Olympic torch relay on Friday in Japan .
The 62-year-old said he had a fever and has pneumonia symptoms .
Churchill Downs on Tuesday rescheduled the Kentucky Derby from May 2 to Sept. 5 in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Throughout the rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic , our first priority has been how to best protect the safety and health of our guests , team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said .
Carstanjen also said details are still being worked out to move the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes .
The Preakness Stakes was scheduled for May 16 , but Maryland Gov .
Larry Hogan said Tuesday he is in discussions with the group that operates the Baltimore-area race , and the parties are considering moving the second Triple Crown event to September .
The Belmont Stakes is for June 6 , but the New York Racing Association said Tuesday it is working with media rights holder NBC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ held .

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Former Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) has yet to play this season with the Brooklyn Nets as he continues to recover from a major Achilles injury. File Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- Four Brooklyn Nets players, including superstar forward Kevin Durant, have tested positive for the coronavirus, the team announced Tuesday. In the Nets' statement, which didn't identify players who tested positive, the team said only one individual is exhibiting symptoms. All four are isolated and are receiving medical care from team physicians. Advertisement
"Four Brooklyn Nets players have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus," the team said. "Of the four, one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic. ... The organization is currently notifying anyone who has had known contact with the players, including recent opponents, and is working closely with state and local health authorities on reporting.
"All players and members of the Nets travel party are being asked to remain isolated, closely monitor their health and maintain constant communication with team medical staff. The health of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible."
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Durant revealed Tuesday that he was among the four players on the team to test positive for the virus. He told The Athletic that he was "feeling fine" despite the diagnosis.
He did not play this season before it was suspended because he is recovering from a major Achilles injury.
"Everyone be careful, take care of yourself and quarantine," Durant said, according to The Athletic. "We're going to get through this."
The four Nets players joined Utah Jazz stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell and Detroit Pistons big man Christian Wood as NBA players known to have tested positive for the virus. Brooklyn didn't play the Jazz or the Pistons in the two weeks before the season was put on hold.
French Open pushed back to September
The 2020 French Open tennis tournament was moved Tuesday from May 18 to Sept. 20 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
"We have made a difficult, yet brave, decision in this unprecedented situation, which has evolved greatly since last weekend," French Tennis Federation president Bernard Giudicelli said. "We are acting responsibly, and must work together in the fight to ensure everybody's health and safety."
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Main draw matches for the tournament were scheduled to start May 24 at Roland Garros in Paris. The tournament had been scheduled to end June 7, but will now end Oct. 4. The French Open is the first Grand Slam to be impacted by the coronavirus.
Wimbledon 2020 is the next Grand Slam scheduled, followed by the U.S. Open. The Australian Open was the first Grand Slam of the 2020 season.
"Though nobody is able to predict what the situation will be on May 18, the current confinement measures have made it impossible for us to continue with our preparations and, as a result, we are unable to hold the tournament on the dates originally planned," the French Tennis Federation said.
The rescheduling of the French Open follows Monday's decision by the Women's Tennis Association to suspend its tour until May 2 amid the coronavirus outbreak. The ATP Tour and International Tennis Federation announced last week they were suspending play for six weeks.
Soccer: Euro 2020, Copa America 2020 moved to 2021
The coronavirus outbreak has hit the soccer world hard, most recently pushing two major soccer tournaments to 2021 and infecting more than one-third of the players on the roster for La Liga club Valencia.
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UEFA announced Tuesday that Euro 2020 will move from June 12 to July 12, 2020, to June 11 to July 11, 2021, due to the coronavirus outbreak.
"Football is an uplifting and powerful force in society," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a news release.
"The thought of celebrating a pan-European festival of football in empty stadiums, with deserted fan zones while the continent sits at home in isolation, is a joyless one and one we could not accept to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the competition," Ceferin said.
The South American Football Confederation announced Tuesday that the Copa America also has been delayed and will be played on the same days as Euro 2021.
"It was not easy for CONMEBOL to make this decision, but we must always protect the health of our athletes and all agents that are part of the great family of South American football," the South American Football Confederation said in a statement.
"Have no doubt that the oldest international tournament in the world will return with renewed strength in 2021, ready to make the continent and the whole world vibrate again with the passion that always characterizes us."
Valencia on Sunday reported five positive coronavirus tests among players and the staff. The La Liga club said Sunday that more than one-third of the players on its first team tested positive, but show no symptoms of the coronavirus.
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"Despite the strict measures adopted by the club after their UEFA Champions League game against Atlanta on Feb. 19 in Milan -- an area confirmed as 'high risk' by the Italian authorities days afterward -- these latest results show that the exposure inherent to such matches has caused a positive test rate of around 35 percent," Valencia said.
The La Liga club said the infected players and staff members are isolated at home, receiving medical assessments and carrying out their scheduled training programs. La Liga is one of the many top soccer leagues that suspended matches amid the outbreak.
Olympics deadline for decision not May
Tokyo Olympic officials say the Summer Games are still set to start on time. Australian Olympic Committee president and International Olympic Committee vice president John Coates told the Sydney Morning Herald that there is no May deadline to decide whether the Games will be canceled.
Coates' announcement of no Olympic deadline comes after senior International Olympic Committee member Dick Pound suggested the May deadline and said the Summer Games might be canceled -- instead of being moved -- if the coronavirus outbreak is not controlled.
"The IOC didn't recognize any dates that Dick came up with, and I think Dick backed off that as well," Coates said. "It's all proceeding to start on the 24th of July."
Advertisement
News of the Olympic schedule came hours before Japanese Olympic Committee vice president and Japanese Football Association president Kozo Tashima said Tuesday he tested positive for the coronavirus.
Tashima visited cities in Europe and the United States for soccer events from Feb. 28 to March 8 before testing positive for the virus.
"I pray that the Olympics and all sports can be performed safely in Japan and around the world," Tashima told the JFA.
Tashima said he will not be able to attend the first leg of the Olympic torch relay on Friday in Japan. The 62-year-old said he had a fever and has pneumonia symptoms.
Kentucky Derby headed to September
Churchill Downs on Tuesday rescheduled the Kentucky Derby from May 2 to Sept. 5 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
"Throughout the rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic, our first priority has been how to best protect the safety and health of our guests, team members and community," Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said.
Carstanjen also said details are still being worked out to move the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.
The Preakness Stakes was scheduled for May 16, but Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said Tuesday he is in discussions with the group that operates the Baltimore-area race, and the parties are considering moving the second Triple Crown event to September.
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The Belmont Stakes is for June 6, but the New York Racing Association said Tuesday it is working with media rights holder NBC to determine when the race will be held.


upi--2020-03-17--Dow, S&P 500, Nasdaq all rebound as Trump announces stimulus program

March 17 ( UPI ) -- The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up more than 1,000 points on Wall Street Tuesday after steep losses a day earlier that saw the index 's largest single-day drop since 1987 .
The Dow closed up 1,048.86 points , or 5.2 percent , while the S & P 500 rose 6 percent and the Nasdaq composite increased 6.23 percent as President Donald Trump announced an $ 850 billion economic stimulus program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the program would include payments to small businesses , loan guarantees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers as well as proposals for deferring $ 300 billion in taxes for as many as 90 days without interest or penalty , and a $ 10 billion investment to allow the Federal Reserve to buy up to $ 1 trillion in corporate debt for companies facing bankruptcy due to a lack of liquidity .
The package also includes about $ 50 billion earmarked to assist the U.S. airline industry amid lack of passenger demand due to the coronavirus that has caused stocks to plummet .
Tuesday 's rebound comes after Trump said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' heading toward a recession as concerns about the virus and declining world oil prices over the past week have affected U.S. indices .
The Dow briefly dipped below the 20,000-mark early Tuesday for the first time since February 2017 , not even a month after President Donald Trump took office .
A few days after his inauguration , the Dow hit 20,000 for the first time .
`` There are monetary and fiscal policies that are being put in place to try to ease financial market concerns , but this is ultimately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , CEO And managing partner at Bordeaux Wealth Advisors told USA Today .
`` We 're going to need to see data that shows the severity of this virus situation is abating and getting better .
Markets are assuming the worst right now . ''

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Traders work on the the floor of the New York Stock Exchange Tuesday at the opening bell on Wall Street in New York City. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed up more than 1,000 points on Wall Street Tuesday after steep losses a day earlier that saw the index's largest single-day drop since 1987. The Dow closed up 1,048.86 points, or 5.2 percent, while the S&P 500 rose 6 percent and the Nasdaq composite increased 6.23 percent as President Donald Trump announced an $850 billion economic stimulus program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Advertisement
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the program would include payments to small businesses, loan guarantees to travel industries and stimulus for American workers as well as proposals for deferring $300 billion in taxes for as many as 90 days without interest or penalty, and a $10 billion investment to allow the Federal Reserve to buy up to $1 trillion in corporate debt for companies facing bankruptcy due to a lack of liquidity.
The package also includes about $50 billion earmarked to assist the U.S. airline industry amid lack of passenger demand due to the coronavirus that has caused stocks to plummet.
Tuesday's rebound comes after Trump said Monday the United States "may be" heading toward a recession as concerns about the virus and declining world oil prices over the past week have affected U.S. indices.
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The Dow briefly dipped below the 20,000-mark early Tuesday for the first time since February 2017, not even a month after President Donald Trump took office. A few days after his inauguration, the Dow hit 20,000 for the first time.
"There are monetary and fiscal policies that are being put in place to try to ease financial market concerns, but this is ultimately a health issue," Tom Meyers, CEO And managing partner at Bordeaux Wealth Advisors told USA Today. "We're going to need to see data that shows the severity of this virus situation is abating and getting better. Markets are assuming the worst right now."


upi--2020-03-17--Cigarette packs in U.S. to get graphic new health warnings in 2021

Graphic new health warnings must appear on cigarette packages and in cigarette ads beginning next year , the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says .
As of June 18 , 2021 , the 11 new warnings must be displayed prominently , filling the top half of cigarette packages on both front and back and at least 20 percent of the area at the top of ads .
The warnings include text and photo-realistic color images depicting some of the lesser-known , but serious health risks of cigarette smoking , including impaired fetal growth , heart disease , diabetes and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant change to cigarette labels in more than 35 years and will considerably increase public awareness of lesser-known , but serious negative health consequences of cigarette smoking , '' Mitch Zeller , director of FDA 's Center for Tobacco Products , said in an agency news release .
For example , current smokers have almost four times the risk of bladder cancer as never-smokers , and smoking is responsible for an estimated 5,000 bladder cancer deaths in the United States each year .
Yet research shows the public has limited awareness of bladder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Research shows that the current warnings on cigarettes , which have not changed since 1984 , have become virtually invisible to both smokers and nonsmokers , in part because of their small size , location and lack of an image , '' Zeller said .
Research also shows substantial gaps remain in the public 's knowledge of smoking 's harms and that smokers are misinformed about cigarettes and their negative health effects .
`` The new cigarette health warnings complement other critical FDA actions , including outreach campaigns targeted to both adults @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the dangers associated with using cigarettes , as well as other tobacco products , '' Zeller said .
Thirteen warnings were considered .
The 11 new ones were selected based on consumer research and public comments , scientific literature and other factors , according to the FDA .
The messages all begin with WARNING , followed by : • Smoking causes bladder cancer , which can lead to bloody urine .
• Smoking can cause heart disease and strokes by clogging arteries .
• Smoking causes COPD , a lung disease that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blood flow , which can cause erectile dysfunction .
• Smoking reduces blood flow to the limbs , which can require amputation .
• Smoking causes cataracts , which can lead to blindness .
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on the health risks of smoking .

Graphic new health warnings must appear on cigarette packages and in cigarette ads beginning next year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says.
As of June 18, 2021, the 11 new warnings must be displayed prominently, filling the top half of cigarette packages on both front and back and at least 20 percent of the area at the top of ads.
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The warnings include text and photo-realistic color images depicting some of the lesser-known, but serious health risks of cigarette smoking, including impaired fetal growth, heart disease, diabetes and more.
The warnings "represent the most significant change to cigarette labels in more than 35 years and will considerably increase public awareness of lesser-known, but serious negative health consequences of cigarette smoking," Mitch Zeller, director of FDA's Center for Tobacco Products, said in an agency news release.
For example, current smokers have almost four times the risk of bladder cancer as never-smokers, and smoking is responsible for an estimated 5,000 bladder cancer deaths in the United States each year. Yet research shows the public has limited awareness of bladder cancer as a consequence of smoking.
"Research shows that the current warnings on cigarettes, which have not changed since 1984, have become virtually invisible to both smokers and nonsmokers, in part because of their small size, location and lack of an image," Zeller said.
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Research also shows substantial gaps remain in the public's knowledge of smoking's harms and that smokers are misinformed about cigarettes and their negative health effects.
"The new cigarette health warnings complement other critical FDA actions, including outreach campaigns targeted to both adults and youth, to educate the public about the dangers associated with using cigarettes, as well as other tobacco products," Zeller said.
Thirteen warnings were considered. The 11 new ones were selected based on consumer research and public comments, scientific literature and other factors, according to the FDA.
The messages all begin with WARNING, followed by:
Tobacco smoke can harm your children.
Tobacco smoke causes fatal lung disease in nonsmokers.
Smoking causes head and neck cancer.
Smoking causes bladder cancer, which can lead to bloody urine.
Smoking during pregnancy stunts fetal growth.
Smoking can cause heart disease and strokes by clogging arteries.
Smoking causes COPD, a lung disease that can be fatal.
Smoking reduces blood flow, which can cause erectile dysfunction.
Smoking reduces blood flow to the limbs, which can require amputation.
Smoking causes type 2 diabetes, which raises blood sugar.
Smoking causes cataracts, which can lead to blindness.
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on the health risks of smoking.
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Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-03-17--Navy awards nearly $320M to Pratt & Whitney to produce F-35 engines

March 17 ( UPI ) -- The U.S. Navy has awarded United Technologies ' Pratt & Whitney a nearly $ 320 million contract to produce 32 propulsion systems for the F-35 fighter planes for the Navy , Air Force and Japan .
The The $ 319.7 million contract , announced Monday by the Department of Defense , exercises an option for production and delivery of 20 F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the Navy , six F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the U.S. Air Force and six F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the government of Japan .
Pratt & Whitney 's F135 propulsion system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the fifth generation fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. military .
The F-35 is the Department of Defense 's `` most ambitious and costly weapon system in history , '' according to the Government Accountability Office .
Work on the contract is expected to be completed by December 2022 .
Most of it will be completed in East Hartford , Conn. , where the aerospace manufacturer is based , with the rest taking place in Indianapolis , Ind.
, and Britain .
The award came on the same day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the F-35 's central logistics systems needs a complete redesign .
The 58-page GAO report , released Monday , noted risks associated with the system in the past five years , including inaccurate data within the system and ineffective personnel training .

The F-35 is the "most ambitious and costly weapon system in history," according to the Government Accountability Office. Photo by Alex R. Lloyd/U.S. Air Force
March 17 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy has awarded United Technologies' Pratt & Whitney a nearly $320 million contract to produce 32 propulsion systems for the F-35 fighter planes for the Navy, Air Force and Japan. The The $319.7 million contract, announced Monday by the Department of Defense, exercises an option for production and delivery of 20 F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the Navy, six F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the U.S. Air Force and six F135-PW-100 propulsion systems for the government of Japan. Advertisement
Pratt & Whitney's F135 propulsion system powers all three variants of the F-35, the fifth generation fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. military.
The F-35 is the Department of Defense's "most ambitious and costly weapon system in history," according to the Government Accountability Office.
Work on the contract is expected to be completed by December 2022. Most of it will be completed in East Hartford, Conn., where the aerospace manufacturer is based, with the rest taking place in Indianapolis, Ind., and Britain.
The award came on the same day the the GAO published a report saying the F-35's central logistics systems needs a complete redesign.
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The 58-page GAO report, released Monday, noted risks associated with the system in the past five years, including inaccurate data within the system and ineffective personnel training.


upi--2020-03-17--South Korean pharma firms speed work on coronavirus drugs

SEOUL , March 17 ( UPI ) -- South Korean pharmaceutical giant Celltrion is vowing to press ahead toward a clinical drug trial on humans in hopes of treating the novel coronavirus , COVID-19 .
The company 's founding chairman , Seo Jung-jin , made the announcement Thursday on YouTube .
`` It typically takes a year and a half to develop a cure for the virus .
Given the current situation , however , we will enable patients to receive the cure through clinical trials , '' Seo said .
Seo , 62 , vowed the company would begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We will finish the job of finding the most capable antibody in April so as to develop the drug in May .
After animal trials , we will begin human tests in six months , '' he said .
Celltrion is also working on a COVID-19 testing kit , which would allow everyday people to test themselves for the virus .
`` We aim to make the kit available by May , '' Seo said .
South Korea reported 8,320 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 83 deaths as of late Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ find a treatment .
Earlier this month , Green Cross launched a state-sponsored project to find a cure and a vaccine .
According to the Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Manufacturers Association , 15 domestic companies have joined the competition .

Celltrion Chairman Seo Jung-jin announces the company’s plan to start human clinical tests of a new drug to treat coronavirus. Photo courtesy of Celltrion
SEOUL, March 17 (UPI) -- South Korean pharmaceutical giant Celltrion is vowing to press ahead toward a clinical drug trial on humans in hopes of treating the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. The company's founding chairman, Seo Jung-jin, made the announcement Thursday on YouTube. Advertisement
"It typically takes a year and a half to develop a cure for the virus. Given the current situation, however, we will enable patients to receive the cure through clinical trials," Seo said.
Seo, 62, vowed the company would begin trials in the next six months.
"We will finish the job of finding the most capable antibody in April so as to develop the drug in May. After animal trials, we will begin human tests in six months," he said.
Celltrion is also working on a COVID-19 testing kit, which would allow everyday people to test themselves for the virus.
"We aim to make the kit available by May," Seo said.
South Korea reported 8,320 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 83 deaths as of late Tuesday.
Other Korean companies are also working to find a treatment.
Earlier this month, Green Cross launched a state-sponsored project to find a cure and a vaccine.
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According to the Korea Pharmaceutical and Bio-Pharma Manufacturers Association, 15 domestic companies have joined the competition.


upi--2020-03-17--Telemedicine comes into its own with coronavirus outbreak

As U.S. states and cities scramble to contain the new coronavirus by restricting public gatherings , hospitals are increasingly using remote medical care to battle the outbreak .
Many health systems in the United States already have `` telemedicine '' services in place , and there is no better time to deploy them , said Dr. Judd Hollander , an emergency medicine physician at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia .
Telemedicine takes advantage of technology to see patients with non-emergency conditions in their own homes .
People can use their devices to set up a `` virtual visit '' with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment advice and , in some cases , prescriptions .
And right now , when people should be avoiding crowds whenever possible , telemedicine could fill a critical role , Hollander said .
Jefferson Health has a longstanding telemedicine program , and it generally sees an uptick during flu season , when miserably sick people want to avoid an in-person visit .
`` But the whole world has changed in the past month , '' Hollander said .
In roughly the past week , the number of telemedicine visits at Jefferson has quadrupled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional providers to manage the demand , he noted .
`` We 're basically begging anyone with some spare minutes to take on a visit , '' he said .
Telemedicine is also a way to keep potentially ill hospital staff away from patients .
Since COVID-19 landed in the United States , several health care facilities have put workers under quarantine due to exposure to infected patients .
But telemedicine offers a way to keep those providers working , Hollander said , which would also free up others for in-person care .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to allow doctors with symptoms to care for patients virtually while tests for COVID-19 are pending .
Hollander recently co-wrote a perspective piece in the New England Journal of Medicine , laying out the potential for telemedicine in a time of pandemic .
His co-author , Dr. Brendan Carr , is an emergency medicine physician at Mount Sinai Health System in New York City , which also offers virtual visits .
Telemedicine is not new , nor is it uncommon , said Amanda Tosto , clinical transformation officer at Rush University Medical Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be unaware it 's available in their local area , she said .
Rush , which launched `` on-demand '' video visits last year , has seen a similar surge in demand -- going from a typical 30 to 60 visits a month , to about 100 a day , Tosto said .
There are also nationwide telehealth companies , Hollander noted , such as Teladoc and American Well .
Many people making virtual visits now have symptoms they worry could be COVID-19 , which generally causes a fever , cough and shortness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -- due to their travel history or exposure to someone diagnosed with the virus .
`` People want peace of mind , '' Hollander said .
But , he added , `` there are n't enough tests .
You can barely test the people who are sick . ''
In general , people with milder COVID-19 symptoms will be told to isolate at home , rest , stay hydrated and monitor their symptoms .
Dr. Rahul Sharma , emergency physician-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine , in New York City , said , `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if it 's not an emergency . ''
His hospital is another that has long been using telemedicine .
`` It 's not new , '' Sharma said , `` but now we 're seeing why it 's so powerful and useful .
We want everyone to be safe , and to minimize disease spread . ''
Like Jefferson , NYP/Weill Cornell has seen a quadrupling in demand for its telemedicine services in the past 10 days or so , Sharma said .
Not everyone should have a video visit , he stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like respiratory symptoms , headache , stomach complaints , rashes and body aches .
People with severe chest pain or difficulty breathing , for instance , need emergency care , Sharma said .
Who pays for telemedicine ?
In response to COVID-19 , the Medicare program -- which covers Americans age 65 and older -- has loosened restrictions on seniors ' access to such services .
Some private insurers cover virtual visits , Hollander said , but often people self-pay .
The cost per visit is typically around $ 50 ; Tosto said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to `` concern for coronavirus . ''
Hollander praised certain insurers , such as Aetna , which is waiving co-pays for telemedicine visits for the next 90 days .
Other insurers , he said , `` should step up and take care of your people . ''
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on COVID-19 .

As U.S. states and cities scramble to contain the new coronavirus by restricting public gatherings, hospitals are increasingly using remote medical care to battle the outbreak.
Many health systems in the United States already have "telemedicine" services in place, and there is no better time to deploy them, said Dr. Judd Hollander, an emergency medicine physician at Jefferson Health in Philadelphia.
Advertisement
Telemedicine takes advantage of technology to see patients with non-emergency conditions in their own homes. People can use their devices to set up a "virtual visit" with a doctor to evaluate their symptoms, get treatment advice and, in some cases, prescriptions.
And right now, when people should be avoiding crowds whenever possible, telemedicine could fill a critical role, Hollander said.
Jefferson Health has a longstanding telemedicine program, and it generally sees an uptick during flu season, when miserably sick people want to avoid an in-person visit.
Advertisement
"But the whole world has changed in the past month," Hollander said.
In roughly the past week, the number of telemedicine visits at Jefferson has quadrupled -- and the program is fast training additional providers to manage the demand, he noted.
"We're basically begging anyone with some spare minutes to take on a visit," he said.
Telemedicine is also a way to keep potentially ill hospital staff away from patients. Since COVID-19 landed in the United States, several health care facilities have put workers under quarantine due to exposure to infected patients.
But telemedicine offers a way to keep those providers working, Hollander said, which would also free up others for in-person care.
Similarly, Jefferson has used the technology to allow doctors with symptoms to care for patients virtually while tests for COVID-19 are pending.
Hollander recently co-wrote a perspective piece in the New England Journal of Medicine, laying out the potential for telemedicine in a time of pandemic. His co-author, Dr. Brendan Carr, is an emergency medicine physician at Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, which also offers virtual visits.
Telemedicine is not new, nor is it uncommon, said Amanda Tosto, clinical transformation officer at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. But many people may be unaware it's available in their local area, she said.
Advertisement
Rush, which launched "on-demand" video visits last year, has seen a similar surge in demand -- going from a typical 30 to 60 visits a month, to about 100 a day, Tosto said.
There are also nationwide telehealth companies, Hollander noted, such as Teladoc and American Well.
Many people making virtual visits now have symptoms they worry could be COVID-19, which generally causes a fever, cough and shortness of breath. Others are simply worried -- due to their travel history or exposure to someone diagnosed with the virus.
"People want peace of mind," Hollander said. But, he added, "there aren't enough tests. You can barely test the people who are sick."
In general, people with milder COVID-19 symptoms will be told to isolate at home, rest, stay hydrated and monitor their symptoms.
Dr. Rahul Sharma, emergency physician-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medicine, in New York City, said, "We want people to avoid the ER if it's not an emergency."
His hospital is another that has long been using telemedicine. "It's not new," Sharma said, "but now we're seeing why it's so powerful and useful. We want everyone to be safe, and to minimize disease spread."
Like Jefferson, NYP/Weill Cornell has seen a quadrupling in demand for its telemedicine services in the past 10 days or so, Sharma said.
Advertisement
Not everyone should have a video visit, he stressed. They are for people with problems like respiratory symptoms, headache, stomach complaints, rashes and body aches.
People with severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, for instance, need emergency care, Sharma said.
Who pays for telemedicine? In response to COVID-19, the Medicare program -- which covers Americans age 65 and older -- has loosened restrictions on seniors' access to such services.
Some private insurers cover virtual visits, Hollander said, but often people self-pay. The cost per visit is typically around $50; Tosto said Rush is not charging for virtual visits related to "concern for coronavirus."
Hollander praised certain insurers, such as Aetna, which is waiving co-pays for telemedicine visits for the next 90 days.
Other insurers, he said, "should step up and take care of your people."
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on COVID-19.
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-03-17--Future destroyer USS Delbert  D. Black completes acceptance trials

March 17 ( UPI ) -- The future destroyer USS Delbert D. Black , also known as DDG 119 , has successfully completed acceptance trials after spending two days at sea in the Gulf of Mexico , the Navy announced on Tuesday .
The acceptance trials -- USS Delbert D. Black finished trials on March 12 -- allow the U.S. Navy 's Board of Inspection and Survey to review the ship 's crew performing a series of demonstrations prior to its planned commissioning .
Prior to delivering the ship to the U.S. Navy , criteria evaluated includes the quality of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requirements .
`` The ship performed exceptionally well and demonstrated that the ship is materially ready to execute her mission , '' said Capt .
Seth Miller , DDG 51 class program manager , Program Executive Office Ships in a statement .
`` The success of these trials validates this highly capable ship will be a force multiplier when she joins the fleet . ''
The DDG 119 is configured as an Arleigh Burke-class , Flight IIA destroyer , equipped with the Navy 's Aegis Combat System , which enables a group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to provide a composite picture of a battle space .
The ship , built at Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyards in Pascagoula , Miss.
, also completed builder 's trials last month .
`` DDG 119 's exceptional performance during these trials is a direct reflection of the teamwork between Ingalls Shipbuilding and the Navy , said Capt .
Nathan Schneider , the supervisor of Shipbuilding , Conversion and Repair Gulf Coast .
`` I am proud of this ship , and I am extremely proud of the Ingalls Shipbuilding and Navy team that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are follow on DDGs that will be even better , including the first Flight III DDG which is a real game changer . ''
Last year , the ship sustained an estimated $ 31 million in damage when another ship struck a barge being used to support electrical work aboard the newly built destroyer .
The barge was pushed against the hull of the DDG 119 and caused several minor injuries to workers .
DDG 119 honors Delbert D. Black , who served as the first master chief petty officer of the Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Navy through the Vietnam conflict .
This is the first ship to bear his name .

The destroyer DDG 119, the future USS Delbert D. Black, successfully completed acceptance trials on March 12. Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy
March 17 (UPI) -- The future destroyer USS Delbert D. Black , also known as DDG 119, has successfully completed acceptance trials after spending two days at sea in the Gulf of Mexico, the Navy announced on Tuesday. The acceptance trials -- USS Delbert D. Black finished trials on March 12 -- allow the U.S. Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey to review the ship's crew performing a series of demonstrations prior to its planned commissioning. Advertisement
Prior to delivering the ship to the U.S. Navy, criteria evaluated includes the quality of construction and compliance with Navy specifications and requirements.
"The ship performed exceptionally well and demonstrated that the ship is materially ready to execute her mission," said Capt. Seth Miller, DDG 51 class program manager, Program Executive Office Ships in a statement. "The success of these trials validates this highly capable ship will be a force multiplier when she joins the fleet."
The DDG 119 is configured as an Arleigh Burke-class, Flight IIA destroyer, equipped with the Navy's Aegis Combat System, which enables a group of ships and aircraft to link their radars to provide a composite picture of a battle space.
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The ship, built at Huntington Ingalls Industries shipyards in Pascagoula, Miss., also completed builder's trials last month.
"DDG 119's exceptional performance during these trials is a direct reflection of the teamwork between Ingalls Shipbuilding and the Navy, said Capt. Nathan Schneider, the supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair Gulf Coast. "I am proud of this ship, and I am extremely proud of the Ingalls Shipbuilding and Navy team that built her. Right behind DDG 119 are follow on DDGs that will be even better, including the first Flight III DDG which is a real game changer."
Last year, the ship sustained an estimated $31 million in damage when another ship struck a barge being used to support electrical work aboard the newly built destroyer. The barge was pushed against the hull of the DDG 119 and caused several minor injuries to workers.
DDG 119 honors Delbert D. Black, who served as the first master chief petty officer of the Navy, and was known for guiding the Navy through the Vietnam conflict.
This is the first ship to bear his name.


upi--2020-03-17--Company seeks job applicant to test out luxury Dubai apartment

March 17 ( UPI ) -- A real estate website is seeking a job applicant to fly to Dubai and @ @ @ @ @ a luxury apartment .
The website , Dubai Property for Sale , announced it is @ @ @ @ @ the chance to be flown out to Dubai for an all-expenses-paid trip for 1 week @ @ @ @ @ testing out one of our high-end apartments . ''
The applicant would then be a @ @ @ @ @ position as a property broker find buyers and coordinate sales of the high-end residences .
@ @ @ @ @ on its website and is also asking interested parties to follow it 's official Instagram @ @ @ @ @ bonus , post your favorite holiday picture , tag us in it and use the @ @ @ @ @ the company said .

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March 17 (UPI) -- A real estate website is seeking a job applicant to fly to Dubai and spend a week testing out a luxury apartment.
The website, Dubai Property for Sale, announced it is "offering one lucky person the chance to be flown out to Dubai for an all-expenses-paid trip for 1 week of sunshine, luxury and testing out one of our high-end apartments."
Advertisement
The applicant would then be a finalist for a more permanent position as a property broker find buyers and coordinate sales of the high-end residences.
The company is accepting applications on its website and is also asking interested parties to follow it's official Instagram account.
"As a bonus, post your favorite holiday picture, tag us in it and use the hashtag #experiencedubaiproperty," the company said.


upi--2020-03-17--Watch: Indian railway company using bee sounds to ward off elephants

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Officials with an Indian railway company said they have started using the recorded sound @ @ @ @ @ elephants from wandering onto the tracks .
The Northeast Frontier Railway said its Moradabad division @ @ @ @ @ Sound System '' in locations known to be frequented by elephants .
Officials said villagers @ @ @ @ @ area alert the company , and workers then engage the sound system to play the @ @ @ @ @ elephants are known to avoid for fear of being stung .
The company said the @ @ @ @ @ to an increasing number of elephants killed in collisions with trains .

Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe
March 17 (UPI) -- Officials with an Indian railway company said they have started using the recorded sound of buzzing bees to keep elephants from wandering onto the tracks.
The Northeast Frontier Railway said its Moradabad division installed a "Honey Bee Sound System" in locations known to be frequented by elephants.
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Officials said villagers who spot elephants in the area alert the company, and workers then engage the sound system to play the sound of bees, which elephants are known to avoid for fear of being stung.
The company said the system was adopted in response to an increasing number of elephants killed in collisions with trains.


upi--2020-03-17--Kentucky Derby postponed until September due to coronavirus

March 17 ( UPI ) -- Churchill Downs on Tuesday rescheduled the Kentucky Derby from May 2 to Sept. 5 , over Labor Day weekend , in response to the COVID-19 pandemic .
This is only the second time in the 145-year history of the event , the first being at the end of World War II , that Derby Day has been moved from the first Saturday in May .
Churchill Downs announced the schedule change Tuesday at a news conference in Louisville , Ky. '' Throughout the rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic , our first priority has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and health of our guests , team members and community , '' Churchill Downs Inc. Chief Executive Officer Bill Carstanjen said .
`` As the situation evolved , we steadily made all necessary operational adjustments to provide the safest experience and environment , '' Carstanjen said .
Churchill Downs did not provide details on revised qualification procedures for the races .
The announcement also left pending the status of the 2020 Triple Crown , which was scheduled to continue with the Preakness Stakes on May 16 at Pimlico in Baltimore and the Belmont @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park in New York .
While some tracks around the world have closed to prevent the spread of the corona virus that causes COVID-19 , many have opted to run their races without fans in attendance , relying on internet wagering to keep the sport 's economics moving .
Churchill Downs said earlier the iconic nature of the Derby and its place in the social structure of Kentucky made that choice unacceptable .
The track did not cancel the rest of its spring racing , set to run from April 25 through June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other important stakes races that normally surround the Derby has yet to be determined .
Carstanjen said NBC-TV , which provides coverage of the Triple Crown races , was involved in the decision and will fit the new date into its broadcast schedule .
Also on the horse racing front related to the pandemic , Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington has canceled its spring meeting , which was set to run April 2 to 24 .
British racing joined its European counterparts in shutting down operations .
The British Horseracing Authority said its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dates `` kept under constant review . ''
The BMW Hong Kong Derby will be run Sunday at Sha Tin Racecourse without fans in the stands .
Hong Kong racing , beset earlier in its season by street riots , has been running without spectators for nearly two months , but restrictions were eased narrowly this month for off-track wagering .
The Dubai World Cup , one of the world 's richest and most prestigious race days , will be conducted March 28 without fans in the massive Meydan Racecourse grandstand .
No @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sales of hospitality packages for the big day normally are the main source of revenue for the heavily subsidized racing program .

This is only the second time since WWII that the horse race has been rescheduled from the first Saturday in May in the event's 145-year history. Photo by John Sommers II/UPI | License Photo
March 17 (UPI) -- Churchill Downs on Tuesday rescheduled the Kentucky Derby from May 2 to Sept. 5, over Labor Day weekend, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is only the second time in the 145-year history of the event, the first being at the end of World War II, that Derby Day has been moved from the first Saturday in May. Advertisement
Churchill Downs announced the schedule change Tuesday at a news conference in Louisville, Ky.
"Throughout the rapid development of the COVID-19 pandemic, our first priority has been how to best protect the safety and health of our guests, team members and community," Churchill Downs Inc. Chief Executive Officer Bill Carstanjen said.
"As the situation evolved, we steadily made all necessary operational adjustments to provide the safest experience and environment," Carstanjen said.
Churchill Downs did not provide details on revised qualification procedures for the races. The announcement also left pending the status of the 2020 Triple Crown, which was scheduled to continue with the Preakness Stakes on May 16 at Pimlico in Baltimore and the Belmont Stakes, three weeks later at Belmont Park in New York.
Advertisement
While some tracks around the world have closed to prevent the spread of the corona virus that causes COVID-19, many have opted to run their races without fans in attendance, relying on internet wagering to keep the sport's economics moving.
Churchill Downs said earlier the iconic nature of the Derby and its place in the social structure of Kentucky made that choice unacceptable.
The track did not cancel the rest of its spring racing, set to run from April 25 through June 27, and said the status of the other important stakes races that normally surround the Derby has yet to be determined.
Carstanjen said NBC-TV, which provides coverage of the Triple Crown races, was involved in the decision and will fit the new date into its broadcast schedule.
Also on the horse racing front related to the pandemic, Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington has canceled its spring meeting, which was set to run April 2 to 24.
British racing joined its European counterparts in shutting down operations. The British Horseracing Authority said its suspension will run through April with the dates "kept under constant review."
The BMW Hong Kong Derby will be run Sunday at Sha Tin Racecourse without fans in the stands.
Advertisement
Hong Kong racing, beset earlier in its season by street riots, has been running without spectators for nearly two months, but restrictions were eased narrowly this month for off-track wagering.
The Dubai World Cup, one of the world's richest and most prestigious race days, will be conducted March 28 without fans in the massive Meydan Racecourse grandstand.
No wagering is permitted in Dubai. so sales of hospitality packages for the big day normally are the main source of revenue for the heavily subsidized racing program.