upi--2020-06-23--John Bolton memoir released after weeklong legal fight

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The controversial memoir from former national security adviser John Bolton was released Tuesday after a legal fight that lasted for a week .
The Justice Department asked a federal judge on June 16 to block the book , The Room Where It Happened : A White House Memoir , arguing that it contained classified information .
Washington , D.C. , District Court Judge Royce Lamberth last weekend refused the department 's request to grant an injunction , saying some of the book 's disputed contents were already available .
Lamberth did rule that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disclosing classified information , '' which could allow Bolton 's profits from sales of the book to be seized and expose him to potential criminal liability .
Bolton denied the book contains classified information and said the Trump administration was merely trying to block it to keep embarrassing details from the public .
Trump praised the judge for acknowledging there could be national security concerns in the memoir .
Bolton , who calls himself a `` lifelong conservative , '' said last week Trump is not fit for office .
In his book @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Xi Jinping to buy U.S. agriculture products to enhance his 2020 election prospects .
South Korean lawmaker Kim Hong-gul criticized Bolton Tuesday for the memoir , saying it 's made negotiating with North Korea even more difficult .
`` The third-rate politicians emerging in the United States , once considered a first-rate nation , are about to cause grave damage to peace on the Korean Peninsula , '' he wrote on social media .

Bolton's book, "The Room Where It Happened: A White House Memoir," was released online and at booksellers nationwide Tuesday. File Photo by Yuri Gripas/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- The controversial memoir from former national security adviser John Bolton was released Tuesday after a legal fight that lasted for a week. The Justice Department asked a federal judge on June 16 to block the book, The Room Where It Happened: A White House Memoir, arguing that it contained classified information. Advertisement
Washington, D.C., District Court Judge Royce Lamberth last weekend refused the department's request to grant an injunction, saying some of the book's disputed contents were already available.
Lamberth did rule that the book "likely jeopardized national security by disclosing classified information," which could allow Bolton's profits from sales of the book to be seized and expose him to potential criminal liability.
Bolton denied the book contains classified information and said the Trump administration was merely trying to block it to keep embarrassing details from the public.
Trump praised the judge for acknowledging there could be national security concerns in the memoir.
Bolton, who calls himself a "lifelong conservative," said last week Trump is not fit for office. In his book, he said Trump had asked Chinese President Xi Jinping to buy U.S. agriculture products to enhance his 2020 election prospects.
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South Korean lawmaker Kim Hong-gul criticized Bolton Tuesday for the memoir, saying it's made negotiating with North Korea even more difficult.
"The third-rate politicians emerging in the United States, once considered a first-rate nation, are about to cause grave damage to peace on the Korean Peninsula," he wrote on social media.


upi--2020-06-23--'Chicken Run' sequel coming to Netflix

'Chicken Run' sequel coming to Netflix

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Netflix is partnering with Aardman Animation Studios on a Chicken Run sequel .
The streaming service announced Tuesday on the 20th anniversary of the original Chicken Run that Chicken Run 2 is in development at Aardman .
`` POULTRY NEWS : Exactly 20 years to the day since the original was released , we can confirm there will be a Chicken Run sequel coming to Netflix !
!
Produced by @ aardman , production is expected to begin next year .
Eggsellent , '' Netflix tweeted .
Netflix will distribute the film globally outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financed , distributed and sold Aardman productions since 2015 , and Pathé , which backed the original Chicken Run , closed a deal with the studio to transfer the sequel rights to Netflix .
Chicken Run , which opened in theaters in 2000 , is the highest-grossing stop-motion animated film of all time .
The film is directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park and features the voices of Julia Sawalha , Mel Gibson , Miranda Richardson and Tony Haygarth .
The Wrap said Gibson 's role of Rocky will be recast in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center on Ginger ( Sawalha ) , who is living with Rocky and their daughter , Molly , in their new , human-free home .
Rumors of a new threat on the mainland forces Ginger to rally her troops and put her freedom at risk for the good of all chickens .
Sam Fell will direct the sequel , with Lord , Carla Shelley and Karey Kirkpatrick to serve as executive producers .
Production will begin in 2021 .

POULTRY NEWS: Exactly 20 years to the day since the original was released, we can confirm there will be a Chicken Run sequel coming to Netflix!! Produced by @aardman, production is expected to begin next year. Eggsellent.— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) June 23, 2020
June 23 (UPI) -- Netflix is partnering with Aardman Animation Studios on a Chicken Run sequel.
The streaming service announced Tuesday on the 20th anniversary of the original Chicken Run that Chicken Run 2 is in development at Aardman.
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"POULTRY NEWS: Exactly 20 years to the day since the original was released, we can confirm there will be a Chicken Run sequel coming to Netflix!! Produced by @aardman, production is expected to begin next year. Eggsellent," Netflix tweeted.
Netflix will distribute the film globally outside of China. Studiocanal, which has financed, distributed and sold Aardman productions since 2015, and Pathé, which backed the original Chicken Run, closed a deal with the studio to transfer the sequel rights to Netflix.
Chicken Run, which opened in theaters in 2000, is the highest-grossing stop-motion animated film of all time. The film is directed by Peter Lord and Nick Park and features the voices of Julia Sawalha, Mel Gibson, Miranda Richardson and Tony Haygarth.
The Wrap said Gibson's role of Rocky will be recast in the sequel.
Chicken Run 2 will center on Ginger (Sawalha), who is living with Rocky and their daughter, Molly, in their new, human-free home. Rumors of a new threat on the mainland forces Ginger to rally her troops and put her freedom at risk for the good of all chickens.
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Sam Fell will direct the sequel, with Lord, Carla Shelley and Karey Kirkpatrick to serve as executive producers. Production will begin in 2021.


upi--2020-06-23--Fauci: No requests to slow down COVID-19 testing, vaccine timeline unchanged

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Dr. Anthony Fauci told a House panel Tuesday that he has never been asked to slow down testing for COVID-19 and again expressed hope that a vaccine will be ready by the end of 2020 or early 2021 .
Asked about statements by President Donald Trump at a campaign rally Saturday that he had asked for a slowdown in testing , Fauci , director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases , said that neither he nor any other top U.S. health officials have been requested to do so .
`` To @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever been told to slow down on testing .
That just is a fact , '' he told members the House energy and commerce committee .
`` In fact , we will be doing more testing . ''
The president drew criticism when he suggested spikes in coronavirus cases in several states were due to increased testing .
`` Here 's the bad part : When you do testing to that extent , you 're going to find more people , you 're going to find more cases , '' Trump said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 'Slow the testing down , please . '
'' Other members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force -- including Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Stephen Hahn , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield and Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Brett Giroir -- each answered `` no '' when similarly asked if they had been instructed to slow down COVID-19 testing .
Fauci , one of the leading experts for the government since the health crisis began , testified last month before the Senate health committee and expressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ documented declines in cases , and a number of other officials and experts have warned against reopening too much too soon .
Tuesday , he said he remained `` cautiously optimistic '' about the progress toward developing a vaccine for COVID-19 , announcing that one vaccine trial was set to enter a large-scale Phase 3 study in July .
`` There will be others that follow one month , two months , three months later , '' he said .
`` Although you can never guarantee at all the safety and efficacy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the field , we feel cautiously optimistic ... we will able to make them available to the American public within a year of when we started . ''
That would put the timeline at late this year or early in 2021 , he said , reiterating an opinion he first made in front of the same committee in April .
The hearing , titled , `` Oversight of the Trump Administration 's Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic , '' began with an opening statement from committee chairman Rep. Frank Pallone , D-N.J. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of unfortunate missteps in the Trump administration 's response to the COVID-19 pandemic . ''
The United States has so far reported more than 2.3 million cases and 120,600 deaths since the start of the pandemic , according to Johns Hopkins University .
Several states , including Florida , Arizona , California and the Carolinas , have reported a rise in cases in recent weeks after loosening and lifting restrictions .
`` While a second major increase of COVID-19 cases , or infections could occur in the fall , experts agree that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or emerged from the first wave , '' Pallone said in his statement .
On Monday , Pallone and Rep. Diana DeGette of Colorado , chairwoman of the House oversight and investigations subcommittee , sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar , U.S. Attorney General William Barr and Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf to ask what federal efforts are being taken to ensure front-line workers have adequate medical supplies , personal protective equipment and testing capabilities and how agencies are coordinating efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns regarding reports of healthcare providers and governments at all levels continuing to encounter challenges in reliably procuring vital medical supplies needed to combat COVID-19 , '' Pallone and DeGette wrote in the letter .
`` We also want to better understand the extent to which the federal government is overseeing and coordinating these procurement activities .
`` Healthcare providers and governments at all levels -- which may lack experience in procuring scarce goods in a chaotic global market -- have been forced to compete against each other to secure the supplies they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected at Tuesday 's hearing to discuss the pandemic 's ongoing threat and potential issues that could occur if a sustained increase in COVID-19 occurs at the same time as flu season .
On average , between 300,000 and 650,000 people die each year from influenza , according to World Health Organization figures .
`` While it remains unclear how long the pandemic will last , COVID-19 activity will likely continue for some time , '' Fauci said in prepared remarks for Tuesday 's hearing .
`` It is also unclear what impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare and public health systems during the upcoming influenza season .
`` If there is COVID-19 and flu activity at the same time , this could place a tremendous burden on the healthcare system . ''

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Director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases Dr. Anthony Fauci testifies Tuesday before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on the Trump Administration's Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- Dr. Anthony Fauci told a House panel Tuesday that he has never been asked to slow down testing for COVID-19 and again expressed hope that a vaccine will be ready by the end of 2020 or early 2021. Asked about statements by President Donald Trump at a campaign rally Saturday that he had asked for a slowdown in testing, Fauci, director of the National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that neither he nor any other top U.S. health official has been asked to do so. Advertisement
"To my knowledge, none of us have ever been told to slow down on testing. That just is a fact," he told members the House energy and commerce committee. "In fact, we will be doing more testing."
The president drew criticism when he suggested spikes in coronavirus cases in several states were due to increased testing.
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"Here's the bad part: When you do testing to that extent, you're going to find more people, you're going to find more cases," Trump said. "So I said to my people, 'Slow the testing down, please.'"
Other members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force -- including Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Stephen Hahn, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield, and Health and Human Services Assistant Secretary Brett Giroir -- each answered "no" when similarly asked if they had been instructed to slow down COVID-19 testing.
Fauci, one of the leading experts for the government since the health crisis began, testified last month before the Senate health committee and expressed concern about states reopening before there were documented declines in cases. A number of other officials and experts have warned against reopening too much too soon.
Tuesday, he said he remained "cautiously optimistic" about the progress toward developing a vaccine for COVID-19, announcing that one vaccine trial was set to enter a large-scale Phase 3 study in July.
"There will be others that follow one month, two months, three months later," he said. "Although you can never guarantee at all the safety and efficacy of a vaccine until you actually test it in the field, we feel cautiously optimistic ... we will able to make them available to the American public within a year of when we started."
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That would put the timeline at late this year or early in 2021, he said, reiterating an opinion he first made in front of the same committee in April.
The hearing, titled, "Oversight of the Trump Administration's Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic," began with an opening statement from committee chairman Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., in which he cited "a lot of unfortunate missteps in the Trump administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic."
The United States has so far reported more than 2.3 million cases and 120,600 deaths since the start of the pandemic, according to Johns Hopkins University. Several states, including Florida, Arizona, Texas, California and the Carolinas, have reported a rise in cases in recent weeks after loosening and lifting restrictions.
"While a second major increase of COVID-19 cases, or infections could occur in the fall, experts agree that the United States has not yet recovered or emerged from the first wave," Pallone said in his statement.
On Monday, Pallone and Rep. Diana DeGette of Colorado, chairwoman of the House oversight and investigations subcommittee, sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, U.S. Attorney General William Barr and Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad Wolf to ask what federal efforts are being taken to ensure front-line workers have adequate medical supplies, personal protective equipment and testing capabilities and how agencies are coordinating efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19.
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"We write to express serious concerns regarding reports of healthcare providers and governments at all levels continuing to encounter challenges in reliably procuring vital medical supplies needed to combat COVID-19," Pallone and DeGette wrote in the letter. "We also want to better understand the extent to which the federal government is overseeing and coordinating these procurement activities.
"Healthcare providers and governments at all levels -- which may lack experience in procuring scarce goods in a chaotic global market -- have been forced to compete against each other to secure the supplies they need."
The hearing came as Trump traveled to Arizona to visit a segment of the border wall and give a speech at a Phoenix church as the state reported a record single-day increase in coronavirus cases.
Trump has repeatedly refused to wear a mask or other form of face covering while appearing in public during the pandemic and during the hearing on Tuesday, Fauci said he had never personally directed the president to do so.
Redfield declined to answer a question from Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., about how often he interacts with Trump.
"Well, I have regular interactions as part of the White House task force, as a member," he said. "As it relates to my interactions directly with the president, I'm going to keep those between myself and the president."
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The health officials discussed the pandemic's ongoing threat and potential issues that could occur if a sustained increase in COVID-19 occurs at the same time as flu season. On average, between 300,000 and 650,000 people die each year from influenza, according to World Health Organization figures.
"While it remains unclear how long the pandemic will last, COVID-19 activity will likely continue for some time," Fauci said in prepared remarks for Tuesday's hearing. "It is also unclear what impact the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will have on healthcare and public health systems during the upcoming influenza season.
"If there is COVID-19 and flu activity at the same time, this could place a tremendous burden on the healthcare system."
World moves to reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic


upi--2020-06-23--Severe COVID-19 raises odds for dangerous heart conditions 10-fold

Doctors have long noted links between severe COVID-19 and heart trouble , but a new study helps quantify the magnitude of the problem .
The study of hundreds of hospitalized patients found that cardiac arrest and heart rhythm disorders are 10 times more common among COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care than among other hospitalized COVID-19 patients .
Just why the risk soars so high in the ICU is n't clear , but it 's likely tied to the stresses of advanced illness , not a direct activity of the new coronavirus upon the heart , said study senior author Dr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electrophysiologist and associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine .
`` Non-cardiac causes such as systemic infection , inflammation and illness are likely to contribute more to the occurrence of cardiac arrest and arrhythmias than damaged or infected heart cells due to the viral infection , '' Deo said in a university news release .
A cardiologist unconnected to the new report agreed .
`` We know that critical ill patients with COVID-19 have what we call a systemic inflammatory response , which creates a 'cytokine storm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City .
`` This massive immune response , it appears , is the cause of the increase in heart rhythm disorders , rather than virus itself . ''
The new study included 700 COVID-19 patients , mean age 50 , who were admitted to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania between early March and mid-May .
More than 70 percent of the patients were black .
Overall , nine patients suffered cardiac arrest 25 developed the irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation nine had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and 10 had `` non-sustained ventricular tachycardia events '' -- a rapid heart rate that stops by itself within 30 seconds .
Of the patients in the study , about 11 percent were admitted to the ICU .
The only cases of cardiac arrest occurred among patients in the ICU , according to the findings published June 22 in the journal Heart Rhythm .
All of this echoes early reports that had suggested there was a high rate of heart rhythm problems among all COVID-19 patients , even those who are relatively @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect and treat patients who develop COVID-19 , it 's critical for us to improve our understanding of how the disease affects various organs and pathways within our body -- including our heart rhythm abnormalities , '' Deo said .
Dr. Laurence Epstein is system director of electrophysiology at Northwell Health in Manhasset , N.Y. Reading over the new findings , he said that the high rate of heart arrhythmias in COVID-19 `` is not surprising given the severity of illness in many hospitalized COVID patients . ''
He noted that the rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ study ( 3.6 percent ) is actually much lower than the rate of 19 percent he 's witnessed among Northwell Health patients .
And what about any long-term consequences for survivors ?
`` More research is needed to assess whether the presence of cardiac arrhythmias have long-term health effects on patients who were hospitalized for COVID-19 , '' Deo said .
`` In the meantime , it 's important that we launch studies to evaluate the most effective and safest strategies for long-term [ anti-clotting ] and rhythm management in this population .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Prevention has more on COVID-19 .

Health workers assist a coronavirus patient in intensive care in Barcelona, Spain, in April. A new study found that the risk of cardiac arrest and heart rhythm disorders are 10 times more common among COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care than among other hospitalized COVID-19 patients. EPA-EFE/Enric Fontcuberta
Doctors have long noted links between severe COVID-19 and heart trouble, but a new study helps quantify the magnitude of the problem. The study of hundreds of hospitalized patients found that cardiac arrest and heart rhythm disorders are 10 times more common among COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care than among other hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Advertisement
Just why the risk soars so high in the ICU isn't clear, but it's likely tied to the stresses of advanced illness, not a direct activity of the new coronavirus upon the heart, said study senior author Dr. Rajat Deo. He's a cardiac electrophysiologist and associate professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
"Non-cardiac causes such as systemic infection, inflammation and illness are likely to contribute more to the occurrence of cardiac arrest and arrhythmias than damaged or infected heart cells due to the viral infection," Deo said in a university news release.
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A cardiologist unconnected to the new report agreed.
"We know that critical ill patients with COVID-19 have what we call a systemic inflammatory response, which creates a 'cytokine storm,'" said Dr. Satjit Bhusri, from Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. "This massive immune response, it appears, is the cause of the increase in heart rhythm disorders, rather than virus itself."
The new study included 700 COVID-19 patients, mean age 50, who were admitted to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania between early March and mid-May. More than 70 percent of the patients were black.
Overall, nine patients suffered cardiac arrest 25 developed the irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation nine had clinically significant bradyarrhythmias (slow heart rhythms) and 10 had "non-sustained ventricular tachycardia events" -- a rapid heart rate that stops by itself within 30 seconds.
Of the patients in the study, about 11 percent were admitted to the ICU. The only cases of cardiac arrest occurred among patients in the ICU, according to the findings published June 22 in the journal Heart Rhythm.
All of this echoes early reports that had suggested there was a high rate of heart rhythm problems among all COVID-19 patients, even those who are relatively young.
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"In order to best protect and treat patients who develop COVID-19, it's critical for us to improve our understanding of how the disease affects various organs and pathways within our body -- including our heart rhythm abnormalities," Deo said.
Dr. Laurence Epstein is system director of electrophysiology at Northwell Health in Manhasset, N.Y. Reading over the new findings, he said that the high rate of heart arrhythmias in COVID-19 "is not surprising given the severity of illness in many hospitalized COVID patients." He noted that the rate of atrial fibrillation described in the Pennsylvania study (3.6 percent) is actually much lower than the rate of 19 percent he's witnessed among Northwell Health patients.
And what about any long-term consequences for survivors?
"More research is needed to assess whether the presence of cardiac arrhythmias have long-term health effects on patients who were hospitalized for COVID-19," Deo said. "In the meantime, it's important that we launch studies to evaluate the most effective and safest strategies for long-term [anti-clotting] and rhythm management in this population."
More information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on COVID-19.
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-06-23--Watch: Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker reunite in person on 'Today'

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker had a happy reunion on Today .
The Today co-anchor and Today weather anchor saw each other in person for the first time in months during a segment Tuesday in Hudson , N.Y. Guthrie was in Hudson to report on small communities re-opening amid the coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) pandemic .
Roker has had ties to Hudson for years .
`` I 've lived up here , my family 's up here for over 22 years , '' Roker said on Today .
`` This is such a spectacular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like it all across the country , and especially here in the northeast , trying to reopen . ''
Roker also shared socially-distanced photos with Guthrie on Twitter .
`` Ahhhh .
# reunitedanditfeelssogood So good seeing @ SavannahGuthrie in person here on @ TODAYshow live from # hudsonny , '' he wrote .
`` The best part of my day/week/month !
!
!
Seeing @ alroker again !
! ''
Guthrie tweeted in response .
Today has been filming remotely since March due to the health crisis .
Guthrie and her co-anchor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Live last week that the pandemic has confirmed that their partnership is the right fit .
`` We miss each other so much that we actually call during the commercials and talk , and then we text through the entire show , '' Guthrie said .
`` Me and Hoda , we are the right match for each other . ''
Guthrie also shared how she has postponed her wedding to Joel Schiffman due to the health crisis .

.@savannahguthrie and @alroker are standing together for the first time in months! They're in Hudson, New York - a town that relies heavily on the summer tourist season. pic.twitter.com/i10xFFlwCs— TODAY (@TODAYshow) June 23, 2020
June 23 (UPI) -- Savannah Guthrie and Al Roker had a happy reunion on Today.
The Today co-anchor and Today weather anchor saw each other in person for the first time in months during a segment Tuesday in Hudson, N.Y.
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Guthrie was in Hudson to report on small communities re-opening amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Roker has had ties to Hudson for years.
"I've lived up here, my family's up here for over 22 years," Roker said on Today. "This is such a spectacular place, and other small towns just like it all across the country, and especially here in the northeast, trying to reopen."
Roker also shared socially-distanced photos with Guthrie on Twitter.
"Ahhhh. #reunitedanditfeelssogood So good seeing @SavannahGuthrie in person here on @TODAYshow live from #hudsonny," he wrote.
"The best part of my day/week/month!!! Seeing @alroker again!!" Guthrie tweeted in response.
Today has been filming remotely since March due to the health crisis. Guthrie and her co-anchor Hoda Kotb said on Watch What Happens Live last week that the pandemic has confirmed that their partnership is the right fit.
"We miss each other so much that we actually call during the commercials and talk, and then we text through the entire show," Guthrie said. "Me and Hoda, we are the right match for each other."
Guthrie also shared how she has postponed her wedding to Joel Schiffman due to the health crisis.


upi--2020-06-23--Barack Obama, Taylor Swift set for Stonewall Day virtual event

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Former President Barack Obama , Taylor Swift and more are set to appear on Pride Live 's third annual Stonewall Day 2020 virtual event taking place Friday on Logo 's YouTube and Facebook pages .
The event will run from 12:45 p.m. EDT to 3 p.m. EDT and will help benefit LGBTQ advocacy groups that are facing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic , including The Ally Coalition , Brave Space Alliance , TransLatin @ Coalition and Trans Lifeline .
Obama will give a special message to the LGBTQ community .
Ellen DeGeneres @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Katy Perry , Christian Siriano , George Takei , Donatella Versace , Lilly Wachowski , Richard Branson , Jonny Beauchamp , Valentina Sampaio , Dustin Lance Black , Blossom C. Brown , Chelsea Clinton , Luke Evans , Valeria Jarrett , Stella Maxwell , Imara Jones , Bethany C. Meyers , Maisie Richardson-Sellers , Justin Tranter , Josephen Skriver , Kellen Stancil , Ryan Jamaal Swain , Nico Tortorella , Alok Vaid-Menon , Chely Wright , Conchita WURST , Geena Rocero and Pride Live board president Dr. Yvette C. Burton will make appearances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City police conducted a raid on a gay bar in 1969 which led to the Stonewall riots .
The riots helped launch the modern gay rights movement .

June 23 (UPI) -- Former President Barack Obama, Taylor Swift and more are set to appear on Pride Live's third annual Stonewall Day 2020 virtual event taking place Friday on Logo's YouTube and Facebook pages.
The event will run from 12:45 p.m. EDT to 3 p.m. EDT and will help benefit LGBTQ advocacy groups that are facing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including The Ally Coalition, Brave Space Alliance, TransLatin@ Coalition and Trans Lifeline.
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Obama will give a special message to the LGBTQ community.
Ellen DeGeneres, Cynthia Erivo, Demi Lovato, Katy Perry, Christian Siriano, George Takei, Donatella Versace, Lilly Wachowski, Richard Branson, Jonny Beauchamp, Valentina Sampaio, Dustin Lance Black, Blossom C. Brown, Chelsea Clinton, Luke Evans, Valeria Jarrett, Stella Maxwell, Imara Jones, Bethany C. Meyers, Maisie Richardson-Sellers, Justin Tranter, Josephen Skriver, Kellen Stancil, Ryan Jamaal Swain, Nico Tortorella, Alok Vaid-Menon, Chely Wright, Conchita WURST, Geena Rocero and Pride Live board president Dr. Yvette C. Burton will make appearances.
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Kesha and Hayley Kiyoko will perform.
Stonewall Day marks when New York City police conducted a raid on a gay bar in 1969 which led to the Stonewall riots. The riots helped launch the modern gay rights movement.
Taylor Swift's career: awards, No. 1 hits and red carpets


upi--2020-06-23--Watch: Netflix shares trailer for animated film 'Over the Moon'

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Netflix is giving a glimpse of the animated musical Over the Moon .
The streaming service shared a trailer for the film Tuesday featuring the voices of Cathy Ang , Margaret Cho , Phillipa Soo and Irene Tsu .
Over the Moon is inspired by the Chinese legend of Chang ' e , the goddess of the Moon .
The trailer opens with Fei Fei ( Ang ) , a young girl , listening to her parents tell her the story .
The preview then switches to the present day , where Fei Fei @ @ @ @ @ @ @ builds a rocket ship to the moon in an attempt to prove the existence of the Moon goddess .
Over the Moon is directed by Glen Keane , an animator who worked on the Disney 's The Little Mermaid , Beauty and the Beast , Aladdin , Pocahontas and other films .
The film features a score by Steven Price and original songs from Christopher Curtis , Marjorie Duffield and Helen Park .
Keane and producers Gennie Rim and Peilin Chou will discuss Over the Moon during the Annecy Festival 2020 stream Wednesday @ @ @ @ @

June 23 (UPI) -- Netflix is giving a glimpse of the animated musical Over the Moon.
The streaming service shared a trailer for the film Tuesday featuring the voices of Cathy Ang, Margaret Cho, Phillipa Soo and Irene Tsu.
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Over the Moon is inspired by the Chinese legend of Chang'e, the goddess of the Moon. The trailer opens with Fei Fei (Ang), a young girl, listening to her parents tell her the story.
The preview then switches to the present day, where Fei Fei's mother has died. Fei Fei builds a rocket ship to the moon in an attempt to prove the existence of the Moon goddess.
Over the Moon is directed by Glen Keane, an animator who worked on the Disney's The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Pocahontas and other films. The film features a score by Steven Price and original songs from Christopher Curtis, Marjorie Duffield and Helen Park.
Keane and producers Gennie Rim and Peilin Chou will discuss Over the Moon during the Annecy Festival 2020 stream Wednesday at 9 p.m. PST.


upi--2020-06-23--Lions owner Martha Firestone Ford steps down

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Martha Firestone Ford has stepped down from her role as principal owner of the Detroit Lions and passed the job to her daughter , Sheila Ford Hamp .
The Lions announced the move Tuesday .
Firestone Ford , 94 , took control of the team after husband William Clay Ford Sr. died in 2014 .
`` It has been a great honor for our family to be associated with the Lions and with the National Football League , '' Firestone Ford wrote in a statement .
`` I am gratified that this family tradition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost six decades ago , will continue under Sheila 's guiding hand .
`` It is clear to me that Sheila will provide superb leadership and is fully committed to competitive excellence and community involvement . ''
William Clay Ford Sr. purchased the Lions in 1963 for $ 4.5 million .
Forbes reported the team was worth $ 1.95 billion in 2019 .
The Lions have never appeared in a Super Bowl , but won four championships before the 1970 NFL-AFL merger .
`` My mother has inspired all of us since taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ago , '' Ford Hamp said .
`` She has been a tireless leader to our family , our team and our community .
Her smart decisions have given me a solid foundation to take the team forward .
`` On behalf of the family and the team , I want to thank her for her countless contributions .
I look forward to leading the Lions to excellence on and off the field . ''
Ford Hamp was the Lions ' vice chairman .
She also was appointed to the NFL 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last year .
`` Martha Ford has led the Lions with skill and grace for the past six seasons , '' NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said .
`` I have appreciated her business insights , her love of the game , her deep commitment to the NFL , and her personal kindness .
`` We are pleased that the Ford family will continue to own and operate this historic franchise .
Sheila Hamp has become increasingly involved in team and league affairs over the past several years and we look forward to working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club 's executive team . ''
Firestone Ford , Ford Hamp and team president Rod Wood released a statement in December after they announced their decision to retain coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn for this year .
The trio said their expectation was for the Lions to be a `` playoff contender in 2020 . ''
The Lions were 3-12-1 in 2019 .

Martha Firestone Ford (R) became the principal owner of the Detroit Lions in 2014, but relinquished the role to her daughter, Sheila Ford Hamp, on Tuesday. Photo by Rena Laverty/EPA-EFE
June 23 (UPI) -- Martha Firestone Ford has stepped down from her role as principal owner of the Detroit Lions and passed the job to her daughter, Sheila Ford Hamp. The Lions announced the move Tuesday. Firestone Ford, 94, took control of the team after husband William Clay Ford Sr. died in 2014. Advertisement
"It has been a great honor for our family to be associated with the Lions and with the National Football League," Firestone Ford wrote in a statement. "I am gratified that this family tradition, which my husband and I began almost six decades ago, will continue under Sheila's guiding hand.
"It is clear to me that Sheila will provide superb leadership and is fully committed to competitive excellence and community involvement."
William Clay Ford Sr. purchased the Lions in 1963 for $4.5 million. Forbes reported the team was worth $1.95 billion in 2019. The Lions have never appeared in a Super Bowl, but won four championships before the 1970 NFL-AFL merger.
"My mother has inspired all of us since taking on leadership of the Lions over six years ago," Ford Hamp said. "She has been a tireless leader to our family, our team and our community. Her smart decisions have given me a solid foundation to take the team forward.
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"On behalf of the family and the team, I want to thank her for her countless contributions. I look forward to leading the Lions to excellence on and off the field."
Ford Hamp was the Lions' vice chairman. She also was appointed to the NFL's Super Bowl and major events advisory committee last year.
"Martha Ford has led the Lions with skill and grace for the past six seasons," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said. "I have appreciated her business insights, her love of the game, her deep commitment to the NFL, and her personal kindness.
"We are pleased that the Ford family will continue to own and operate this historic franchise. Sheila Hamp has become increasingly involved in team and league affairs over the past several years and we look forward to working with her and the rest of the club's executive team."
Firestone Ford, Ford Hamp and team president Rod Wood released a statement in December after they announced their decision to retain coach Matt Patricia and general manager Bob Quinn for this year. The trio said their expectation was for the Lions to be a "playoff contender in 2020."
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The Lions were 3-12-1 in 2019.


upi--2020-06-23--South Korea politician slams John Bolton for divulging secrets

June 23 ( UPI ) -- A junior South Korean politician condemned former White House national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday , saying his new memoir has made negotiation with North Korea even more difficult .
Kim Hong-gul , a lawmaker with the ruling Democratic Party who is the son of former President Kim Dae-jung , said Tuesday in a Facebook post Bolton was putting the precarious situation on the Korean Peninsula at greater risk for profit .
North Korea will not `` easily reveal secret details during negotiations '' now that `` core secrets '' have been divulged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ less than a year after his departure from the White House , Kim Hong-gul said .
`` Negotiations with North Korea will become more challenging , '' the South Korean politician said on social media .
`` The third-rate politicians emerging in the United States , once considered a first-rate nation , are about to cause grave damage to peace on the Korean Peninsula . ''
Kim also said U.S. President Donald Trump appointed `` hard-liner '' Bolton to intimidate North Korea .
`` After deciding on a summit with North Korea , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the appointment of Bolton as national security adviser , '' Kim said , likening the move to keeping a `` savage beast '' or predator close by .
Bolton has supported regime change in the North .
`` After the [ U.S.-North Korea ] summit in Hanoi , Bolton , who played the role of villain , was discarded . ''
The South Korean politician 's statement comes at a time when he is locked in a dispute over inheritance from the late President Kim Dae-jung and first lady Lee Hee-ho .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dispute over the family estate and said he and his half-brother Kim Hong-eop had a difference of opinion , the JoongAng Daily reported .
`` I am heartbroken to see some media reports that portrayed the dispute as a fight over money , '' Kim Hong-gul said , according to his lawyer .
The fate of the Kim Dae-jung residence and his Nobel Peace Prize money are in dispute , according to local press reports .
Kim Hong-gul has said some of the Nobel Prize money , about $ 660,000 , was used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donga Ilbo .

Former White House national security adviser John Bolton is coming under criticism from South Korea's ruling party politicians for the publication of his memoir. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- A junior South Korean politician condemned former White House national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday, saying his new memoir has made negotiation with North Korea even more difficult. Kim Hong-gul, a lawmaker with the ruling Democratic Party who is the son of former President Kim Dae-jung, said Tuesday in a Facebook post Bolton was putting the precarious situation on the Korean Peninsula at greater risk for profit. Advertisement
North Korea will not "easily reveal secret details during negotiations" now that "core secrets" have been divulged by Bolton "for money-making purposes" less than a year after his departure from the White House, Kim Hong-gul said.
"Negotiations with North Korea will become more challenging," the South Korean politician said on social media. "The third-rate politicians emerging in the United States, once considered a first-rate nation, are about to cause grave damage to peace on the Korean Peninsula."
Kim also said U.S. President Donald Trump appointed "hard-liner" Bolton to intimidate North Korea.
"After deciding on a summit with North Korea, President Trump sought to frighten North Korea with the appointment of Bolton as national security adviser," Kim said, likening the move to keeping a "savage beast" or predator close by. Bolton has supported regime change in the North.
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"After the [U.S.-North Korea] summit in Hanoi, Bolton, who played the role of villain, was discarded."
The South Korean politician's statement comes at a time when he is locked in a dispute over inheritance from the late President Kim Dae-jung and first lady Lee Hee-ho.
On Tuesday, Kim Hong-gul denied a dispute over the family estate and said he and his half-brother Kim Hong-eop had a difference of opinion, the JoongAng Daily reported.
"I am heartbroken to see some media reports that portrayed the dispute as a fight over money," Kim Hong-gul said, according to his lawyer.
The fate of the Kim Dae-jung residence and his Nobel Peace Prize money are in dispute, according to local press reports.
Kim Hong-gul has said some of the Nobel Prize money, about $660,000, was used to pay inheritance taxes, according to Donga Ilbo.


upi--2020-06-23--Britain to lift some COVID-19 restrictions on July 4

Stylist Katie Winston ( R ) cuts the hair of customer Dee Broderick on the sidewalk outside the 7-0-3 Salon @ @ @ @ @ on May 26 .
Although stylists and customers wear masks , the salon has offered @ @ @ @ @ outdoors for those who may have coronavirus concerns .
Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI | Dentist @ @ @ @ @ drill at his office in Chesterfield , Mo.
, on May 19 .
Sherstoff has @ @ @ @ @ that destroys airborne viruses that could be transmitted by the drill , and all staff @ @ @ @ @ masks , gloves and face shields to protect themselves .
Photo by Bill Greenblatt/UPI |

A cyclist is seen riding in London, Britain, on May 10. Beginning July 4, many British businesses will be allowed to reopen under updated distancing and capacity rules. File Photo by Will Oliver/EPA-EFE
June 23 (UPI) -- British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced Tuesday that numerous coronavirus restrictions will be eased beginning July 4, when many businesses will be allowed to reopen. The British leader said churches, bars, restaurants, hotels, hairdressers and barbers will be allowed to open and distancing rules will be relaxed from 2 meters to 1 meter. Advertisement
"Where it is possible to keep two meters apart, people should," Johnson said. "But where it is not, we will advise people to keep a social distance of one-meter plus, meaning they should remain one-meter apart while taking mitigating measures to reduce the risk of transmission."
Johnson said churches will be allowed to reopen for prayers, services and weddings with a maximum capacity of 30 people.
Campsites will be allowed to open if they regularly disinfect washing facilities and restrooms.
However, indoor facilities like gyms, bowling alleys, spas, casinos, tattoo parlors, swimming pools and water parks will remain closed.
Labor Party leader Keir Starmer welcomed Johnson's order, but said details for many areas have yet to be ironed out.
"There are obviously a number of questions that need to be answered," Starmer said. "I believe the government is trying to do the right thing and in that, we will support them."
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World moves to reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic


upi--2020-06-23--Rubik's Cube attempting world record with YouTube livestream

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The makers of Rubik 's Cube announced they are celebrating the puzzle toy 's 40th anniversary by attempting a Guinness World Record for most people simultaneously solving cubes .
Rubik 's announced veteran speed-cuber Keaton Ellis will host the June 25 YouTube live stream at 3 p.m. EDT and lead participants in an attempt to beat the world record of 3,997 people simultaneously solving Rubik 's Cubes .
`` I 'm very excited to guide participants at all levels through a virtual Cube-solving experience in hopes of beating the previous Guinness World Record , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a perfect educational family activity now that school is out for the summer , and it has the potential to fuel a desire to do more with the Cube in the future . ''
The company said Guinness set special rules for the live streamed event , including requiring at least 20,000 people to tune into the live stream for at least 10 minutes .
Rubik 's said it is also teaming with Breakfast Club of Canada , a charity supporting children and families with food insecurity .
The company said it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Cube sale in June and July to the charity .

The makers of Rubik's Cube announced they are celebrating the toy's 40th anniversary with a livestreamed attempt to break the world record for most people simultaneously solving the puzzles. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe June 23 (UPI) -- The makers of Rubik's Cube announced they are celebrating the puzzle toy's 40th anniversary by attempting a Guinness World Record for most people simultaneously solving cubes. Rubik's announced veteran speed-cuber Keaton Ellis will host the June 25 YouTube live stream at 3 p.m. EDT and lead participants in an attempt to beat the world record of 3,997 people simultaneously solving Rubik's Cubes. Advertisement
"I'm very excited to guide participants at all levels through a virtual Cube-solving experience in hopes of beating the previous Guinness World Record," Ellis said. "Cube-solving is a perfect educational family activity now that school is out for the summer, and it has the potential to fuel a desire to do more with the Cube in the future."
The company said Guinness set special rules for the live streamed event, including requiring at least 20,000 people to tune into the live stream for at least 10 minutes.
Rubik's said it is also teaming with Breakfast Club of Canada, a charity supporting children and families with food insecurity. The company said it will donate about 30 cents from each Rubik's Cube sale in June and July to the charity.


upi--2020-06-23--University of Cincinnati removing Marge Schott's name from baseball stadium

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The University of Cincinnati 's board of trustees unanimously voted Tuesday to remove Marge Schott 's name from its baseball stadium .
The school cited the late Cincinnati Reds owner 's `` record of racism and bigotry , '' saying the decision is effective immediately .
The university also will remove Schott 's name from its archives library .
`` Marge Schott 's record of racism and bigotry stands at stark odds with our university 's core commitment to dignity , equity and inclusion , '' school president Neville Pinto said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remove her name is grounded in the firm belief that speaking out against exclusion is as essential as speaking up for inclusion .
`` I hope this action serves as an enduring reminder that we can not remain silent or indifferent when it comes to prejudice , hate or inequity .
More than ever , our world needs us to convert our values into real and lasting action .
I especially want to commend our board of trustees , both individually and collectively , for taking decisive action . ''
The Bearcats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stadium in 2006 after the university received a $ 2 million donation from the Marge and Charles J. Schott Foundation .
In 1996 , Major League Baseball banned Schott from the Reds ' Riverfront Stadium and day-to-day operations of the club through 1998 after making comments about Adolf Hitler .
MLB also banned Schott for the 1993 season because of racist comments directed at black players and team employees .
Facing another suspension and failing health , she sold her controlling interest in the Reds in 1999 .
She died in 2004 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been multiple campaigns to remove Schott 's name from the Bearcats ' baseball stadium in recent years .
Cincinnati alumni Kevin Youkilis and Josh Harrison , among others , previously advocated for the removal of the name .
`` I am proud of our Bearcats , both current student-athletes and alumni , for speaking up on this , '' Cincinnati athletic director John Cunningham said in a statement .
`` I also want to thank our board of trustees for listening and making this change . ''

June 23 (UPI) -- The University of Cincinnati's board of trustees unanimously voted Tuesday to remove Marge Schott's name from its baseball stadium.
The school cited the late Cincinnati Reds owner's "record of racism and bigotry," saying the decision is effective immediately. The university also will remove Schott's name from its archives library.
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"Marge Schott's record of racism and bigotry stands at stark odds with our university's core commitment to dignity, equity and inclusion," school president Neville Pinto said in a statement. "My recommendation to the board to remove her name is grounded in the firm belief that speaking out against exclusion is as essential as speaking up for inclusion.
"I hope this action serves as an enduring reminder that we cannot remain silent or indifferent when it comes to prejudice, hate or inequity. More than ever, our world needs us to convert our values into real and lasting action. I especially want to commend our board of trustees, both individually and collectively, for taking decisive action."
Baseball stadium name removed. @Prez_Pinto: "We cannot remain silent or indifferent when it comes to prejudice, hate or inequity."https://t.co/HuUl9MXwXw— U of Cincinnati (@uofcincy) June 23, 2020
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The Bearcats' baseball facility was named Marge Schott Stadium in 2006 after the university received a $2 million donation from the Marge and Charles J. Schott Foundation.
In 1996, Major League Baseball banned Schott from the Reds' Riverfront Stadium and day-to-day operations of the club through 1998 after making comments about Adolf Hitler.
MLB also banned Schott for the 1993 season because of racist comments directed at black players and team employees.
Facing another suspension and failing health, she sold her controlling interest in the Reds in 1999. She died in 2004 at the age of 75.
There had been multiple campaigns to remove Schott's name from the Bearcats' baseball stadium in recent years. Cincinnati alumni Kevin Youkilis and Josh Harrison, among others, previously advocated for the removal of the name.
"I am proud of our Bearcats, both current student-athletes and alumni, for speaking up on this," Cincinnati athletic director John Cunningham said in a statement. "I also want to thank our board of trustees for listening and making this change."


upi--2020-06-23--New York father avoids jail sentence in death of twins left in hot car

June 23 ( UPI ) -- A New York father whose twin children died after he left them locked in a car on a hot day avoided jail time on Tuesday .
Juan Rodriguez , 39 , pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment in a virtual hearing on Tuesday in the deaths of his 1-year-old twins , Luna and Phoenix , last July .
Bronx District attorney Darcel D. Clark elected not to seek an indictment on those charges instead granting him a year of conditional discharge , which will allow him to remain out of prison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year .
He had been free on bail since his arrest .
`` These babies suffered horribly and we owed them a thorough investigation , '' said Clark .
`` This was a tragic , unfortunate incident .
I hope that as the sweltering weather is upon us , caregivers will be extra vigilant about children in vehicles .
Joey Jackson , an attorney for Rodriguez , declared the ruling a `` just and appropriate resolution '' to the case .
`` For the rest of his life , he will be scarred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jackson .
`` He will feel really badly by what has occurred here .
So I do n't think today is any vindication for him . ''
Rodriguez was initially charged with homicide after the twins were found dead in a car in the Bronx in July .
He told investigators that he accidentally left the twins in their rear-facing car seats after dropping off his older child at daycare and forgot to drop them off at their daycare center before reporting to work at the Veteran 's Administration Medical Center at 8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car at around 4 p.m. and drove two blocks before he noticed the children appeared lifeless in the backseat .
The temperature outside the car reached 86 degrees that day and the twins ' internal body temperature reached 108 degrees , leading to organ failure after several hours in the car , the medical examiner 's office said .

June 23 (UPI) -- A New York father whose twin children died after he left them locked in a car on a hot day avoided jail time on Tuesday.
Juan Rodriguez, 39, pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment in a virtual hearing on Tuesday in the deaths of his 1-year-old twins, Luna and Phoenix, last July.
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Bronx District attorney Darcel D. Clark elected not to seek an indictment on those charges instead granting him a year of conditional discharge, which will allow him to remain out of prison unless he is arrested within the next year. He had been free on bail since his arrest.
"These babies suffered horribly and we owed them a thorough investigation," said Clark. "This was a tragic, unfortunate incident. I hope that as the sweltering weather is upon us, caregivers will be extra vigilant about children in vehicles.
Joey Jackson, an attorney for Rodriguez, declared the ruling a "just and appropriate resolution" to the case.
"For the rest of his life, he will be scarred by what happened here," said Jackson. "He will feel really badly by what has occurred here. So I don't think today is any vindication for him."
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Rodriguez was initially charged with homicide after the twins were found dead in a car in the Bronx in July.
He told investigators that he accidentally left the twins in their rear-facing car seats after dropping off his older child at daycare and forgot to drop them off at their daycare center before reporting to work at the Veteran's Administration Medical Center at 8 a.m.
Rodriguez said he returned to his car at around 4 p.m. and drove two blocks before he noticed the children appeared lifeless in the backseat.
The temperature outside the car reached 86 degrees that day and the twins' internal body temperature reached 108 degrees, leading to organ failure after several hours in the car, the medical examiner's office said.


upi--2020-06-23--MLB to return after players, owners agree on safety protocols

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The Major League Baseball Players Association and the league reached an agreement on health and safety protocols , clearing the way for baseball to officially return .
MLB owners and the MLBPA hammered out the final details of a return-to-play plan Tuesday , with players expected to report to camps by July 1 in preparation for a 60-game season that will start either July 23 or 24 .
`` Major League Baseball is thrilled to announce that the 2020 season is on the horizon , '' commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a schedule to play 60 games and are excited to provide our great fans with baseball again soon . ''
On Monday , the MLB owners voted unanimously to play the 2020 season under the terms of their March agreement with the players ' union .
After the vote , the league asked the union whether players would be able to report to training camp in their respective cities by July 1 and whether the union would agree on the health and safety protocols .
The union quickly signed off on MLB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needed more time to review the health and safety protocols .
That final hurdle was cleared Tuesday night , marking the end of a lengthy and contentious battle between the two sides .
Negotiations between the league and the players ' union lasted more than three months after spring training was halted because of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` All remaining issues have been resolved and players are reporting to training camps , '' the MLBPA said in a statement .
Under the owners ' imposed season , players will receive the full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about $ 1.5 billion total .
The postseason field will remain at 10 teams , and players wo n't receive forgiveness on the $ 170 million salary advance they received as part of the March 26 agreement between the sides .
Players also wo n't get any additional money from the postseason and will not wear on-field microphones .
MLB clubs wo n't have advertising patches on their uniforms .
The universal designated hitter is expected to remain in place for this season .

MLB owners and the MLBPA hammered out the final details of a return-to-play plan Tuesday, with players expected to report to camps by July 1 in preparation for a 60-game season that will start either July 23 or 24. File Photo by Trask Smith/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- The Major League Baseball Players Association and the league reached an agreement on health and safety protocols, clearing the way for baseball to officially return. MLB owners and the MLBPA hammered out the final details of a return-to-play plan Tuesday, with players expected to report to camps by July 1 in preparation for a 60-game season that will start either July 23 or 24. Advertisement
"Major League Baseball is thrilled to announce that the 2020 season is on the horizon," commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement. "We have provided the Players Association with a schedule to play 60 games and are excited to provide our great fans with baseball again soon."
On Monday, the MLB owners voted unanimously to play the 2020 season under the terms of their March agreement with the players' union. After the vote, the league asked the union whether players would be able to report to training camp in their respective cities by July 1 and whether the union would agree on the health and safety protocols.
The union quickly signed off on MLB's proposed July 1 report date but needed more time to review the health and safety protocols. That final hurdle was cleared Tuesday night, marking the end of a lengthy and contentious battle between the two sides.
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Negotiations between the league and the players' union lasted more than three months after spring training was halted because of the coronavirus pandemic.
"All remaining issues have been resolved and players are reporting to training camps," the MLBPA said in a statement.
Under the owners' imposed season, players will receive the full prorated amount of their 2020 salaries -- about $1.5 billion total. The postseason field will remain at 10 teams, and players won't receive forgiveness on the $170 million salary advance they received as part of the March 26 agreement between the sides.
Players also won't get any additional money from the postseason and will not wear on-field microphones. MLB clubs won't have advertising patches on their uniforms. The universal designated hitter is expected to remain in place for this season.


upi--2020-06-23--Trump again blames testing for high coronavirus numbers during Arizona rally

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Three days after restarting his campaign tour in Oklahoma , President Donald Trump visited Arizona Tuesday where he continued to blame testing for the country 's high tally of COVID-19 cases and praised the construction of an expanded physical barrier on the southern U.S. border .
While speaking to a crowd in the auditorium of Dream City Church in Phoenix , Trump repeated his stance that testing rates have contributed to the United States reporting more coronavirus cases than any other nation at 2.3 million , according to Johns Hopkins University .
`` When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have more cases , '' said Trump who has regularly boasted that the United States conducts more testing than other nation .
`` Then they 'll say , 'We have more cases . '
We want to do testing .
We want to do everything .
But they use it to make us look bad . ''
During his rally in Tulsa last week , Trump said he asked officials to `` slow the testing down . ''
Members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force all testified during a hearing before Congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such direction and White House officials insisted Trump was joking .
The president on Tuesday told reporters `` I do n't kid , '' and tweeted that `` with smaller testing , we would show fewer cases ! ''
Arizona reported a single-day record of 3,591 COVID-19 cases on Tuesday , the sixth consecutive day of at least 2,000 new coronavirus cases , and intensive care patients also reached record numbers , according to the Arizona Department of Health Services .
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said Monday she was in opposition to Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wear protective face coverings -- including Trump .
`` Everyone attending tomorrow 's event , particularly any elected official , should set an example to residents by wearing a mask , '' she said in a statement .
`` This includes the president . ''
Earlier in the day , Trump participated in a roundtable briefing on border security before departing for San Luis to visit a section of border wall that 's under construction to `` celebrate the 212th plus mile of completion . ''
Trump examined the barrier , which mostly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and declared it `` really foolproof . ''
`` It 's just great , '' Trump said later during the rally .
`` Nobody 's getting through . ''
Trump 's trip to Arizona -- his third visit to the state in five months -- concluded with the afternoon speech , organized by Students for Trump , at Dream City Church in Phoenix , where the White House said he will speak to young Americans .
Gov .
Doug Ducey , who will accompany Trump during the visit , had come under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the upsurge of COVID-19 cases and faced `` boos '' from the crowd at the rally as he appeared alongside the president .
A pair of Trump campaign staffers tested positive following the president 's rally in Tulsa last weekend , which was his first in months .

President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at the Bank of Oklahoma Center in Tulsa, Okla., on June 20, 2020. Photo by Kyle Rivas/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- Three days after restarting his campaign tour in Oklahoma, President Donald Trump visited Arizona Tuesday where he continued to blame testing for the country's high tally of COVID-19 cases and praised the construction of an expanded physical barrier on the southern U.S. border. While speaking to a crowd in the auditorium of Dream City Church in Phoenix, Trump repeated his stance that testing rates have contributed to the United States reporting more coronavirus cases than any other nation at 2.3 million, according to Johns Hopkins University. Advertisement
"When you have all those tests, you have more cases," said Trump who has regularly boasted that the United States conducts more testing than other nation. "Then they'll say, 'We have more cases.' We want to do testing. We want to do everything. But they use it to make us look bad."
During his rally in Tulsa last week, Trump said he asked officials to "slow the testing down." Members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force all testified during a hearing before Congress on Tuesday that they had received no such direction and White House officials insisted Trump was joking.
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The president on Tuesday told reporters "I don't kid," and tweeted that "with smaller testing, we would show fewer cases!"
Arizona reported a single-day record of 3,591 COVID-19 cases on Tuesday, the sixth consecutive day of at least 2,000 new coronavirus cases, and intensive care patients also reached record numbers, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said Monday she was in opposition to Trump's church rally and urged attendees to wear protective face coverings -- including Trump.
"Everyone attending tomorrow's event, particularly any elected official, should set an example to residents by wearing a mask," she said in a statement. "This includes the president."
Earlier in the day, Trump participated in a roundtable briefing on border security before departing for San Luis to visit a section of border wall that's under construction to "celebrate the 212th plus mile of completion."
Trump examined the barrier, which mostly consisted of reinforcing and replacing existing barriers, and declared it "really foolproof."
"It's just great," Trump said later during the rally. "Nobody's getting through."
Trump's trip to Arizona -- his third visit to the state in five months -- concluded with the afternoon speech, organized by Students for Trump, at Dream City Church in Phoenix, where the White House said he will speak to young Americans.
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Gov. Doug Ducey, who will accompany Trump during the visit, had come under pressure to cancel the events due to the upsurge of COVID-19 cases and faced "boos" from the crowd at the rally as he appeared alongside the president. A pair of Trump campaign staffers tested positive following the president's rally in Tulsa last weekend, which was his first in months.


upi--2020-06-23--Billy Wardlow asks Supreme Court for stay citing his age at time of murder

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Lawyers for a Texas death row inmate have asked the Supreme Court for a stay of execution pending the outcome of his appeal citing brain science .
Billy Joe Wardlow , 45 , is scheduled to be executed July 8 for the death of 82-year-old Carl Cole in 1993 .
Earlier this month , Wardlow asked the Supreme Court to review his case in light of a 2005 ruling in which the high court outlawed the death penalty for people who committed murder when they were 17 years old or younger .
The justices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the maturity and responsibility of an adult , and thus should n't be subject to the death penalty .
Wardlow cited scientific research to suggest that people who commit murder under the age of 21 also should n't receive the death penalty .
He was 18 at the time he killed Cole .
`` Neuroscientific research has established with scientific certainty that because of continuing brain development until sometime in our early 20s , the neurological basis for a person 's character , and hence his or her character , is not fully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Monday 's filing seeking a stay .
`` Because of this , it is now clear that there can be no reliable prediction concerning future dangerousness for a person who has committed capital murder prior to the age of 21 . ''
Wardlow 's lawyers said that because they believe he 's likely to succeed in his appeal , the Supreme Court should stay his pending execution .

Billy Joe Wardlow, 45, is scheduled to be executed July 8 for the death of 82-year-old Carl Cole in 1993. File Photo courtesy of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice
June 23 (UPI) -- Lawyers for a Texas death row inmate have asked the Supreme Court for a stay of execution pending the outcome of his appeal citing brain science. Billy Joe Wardlow, 45, is scheduled to be executed July 8 for the death of 82-year-old Carl Cole in 1993. Advertisement
Earlier this month, Wardlow asked the Supreme Court to review his case in light of a 2005 ruling in which the high court outlawed the death penalty for people who committed murder when they were 17 years old or younger. The justices cited research that said that juveniles lacked the maturity and responsibility of an adult, and thus shouldn't be subject to the death penalty.
Wardlow cited scientific research to suggest that people who commit murder under the age of 21 also shouldn't receive the death penalty. He was 18 at the time he killed Cole.
"Neuroscientific research has established with scientific certainty that because of continuing brain development until sometime in our early 20s, the neurological basis for a person's character, and hence his or her character, is not fully formed prior to the age of 21," said Monday's filing seeking a stay.
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"Because of this, it is now clear that there can be no reliable prediction concerning future dangerousness for a person who has committed capital murder prior to the age of 21."
Wardlow's lawyers said that because they believe he's likely to succeed in his appeal, the Supreme Court should stay his pending execution.


upi--2020-06-23--Judge orders Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro to wear face mask in public or pay fine

A federal judge ordered Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro to wear a face covering while in public to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or face a daily fine of approximately $390. Photo by Joedson Alves/EPA-EFE
June 23 (UPI) -- A federal judge on Tuesday ordered Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro to comply with measures requiring the use of a face mask to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or face a fine. The ruling, made public Tuesday, declared that Bolsonaro was not exempt from the laws of the federal district, including Brazil's capital, and would face a fine of approximately $390 a day for failing to comply. Advertisement
"The president of the republic must take all necessary measures to avoid the transmission of COVID-19 be that in order to protect his own health or that of those around him," Judge Renato Coelho Borelli wrote.
Bolsonaro has repeatedly been seen in public without a mask or face covering and has been seen wearing a mask improperly, including hanging it off of his ear.
"A straightforward Google search is enough to find numerous images of the defendant Jair Messias Bolsonaro moving around Brasilia and the surrounding federal district without using a mask and exposing others to the spread of this infirmity that has caused a nationwide upheaval," Borelli wrote.
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Brazil has reported 1.1 million positive COVID-19 cases and a death toll of 51,271 related to the virus, according to figures by Johns Hopkins University.
Bolsonaro has sought to diminish the threat of the coronavirus publicly, referring to it as a "little flu" and clashing with local legislators by pushing them to keep businesses open.
World moves to reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic


upi--2020-06-23--Andre Drummond picking up option to remain with Cleveland Cavaliers

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Two-time All-Star center Andre Drummond said he intends to pick up his player option to stay with the Cleveland Cavaliers for another season .
Drummond , who was traded to the Cavaliers by the Detroit Pistons earlier this year , said on Tuesday 's episode of ESPN 's Le Batard & Friends -- STUpodity podcast that he will `` definitely be in Cleveland '' next year .
According to Spotrac , he has a $ 28.75 million option for the 2020-21 campaign .
`` Yeah , it 's going to be hard to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me being in Cleveland still , '' Drummond said .
`` I definitely will be in Cleveland . ''
The Cavs sent guard Brandon Knight , forward John Henson and a 2023 second-round draft pick to the Pistons in exchange for Drummond in early February .
The Pistons selected Drummond , who was named All-NBA third team in 2016 , in the first round of the 2012 draft out of UConn .
The 26-year-old big man has led the league in rebounding on three occasions ( 2016 , 2018-19 ) in his career @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Cavaliers this season , Drummond has averaged 17.7 points , 15.2 rebounds , 1.9 steals , 1.6 blocks and 2.7 assists per game .
He currently leads the league in rebounds per contest .

Former Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond (L) was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in February. File Photo by Mark Goldman/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- Two-time All-Star center Andre Drummond said he intends to pick up his player option to stay with the Cleveland Cavaliers for another season. Drummond, who was traded to the Cavaliers by the Detroit Pistons earlier this year, said on Tuesday's episode of ESPN's Le Batard & Friends -- STUpodity podcast that he will "definitely be in Cleveland" next year. According to Spotrac, he has a $28.75 million option for the 2020-21 campaign. Advertisement
"Yeah, it's going to be hard to give up, so you can count on me being in Cleveland still," Drummond said. "I definitely will be in Cleveland."
The Cavs sent guard Brandon Knight, forward John Henson and a 2023 second-round draft pick to the Pistons in exchange for Drummond in early February.
The Pistons selected Drummond, who was named All-NBA third team in 2016, in the first round of the 2012 draft out of UConn. The 26-year-old big man has led the league in rebounding on three occasions (2016, 2018-19) in his career.
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In 57 games between the Pistons and Cavaliers this season, Drummond has averaged 17.7 points, 15.2 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 1.6 blocks and 2.7 assists per game. He currently leads the league in rebounds per contest.


upi--2020-06-23--Allen Lew, man behind some of D.C. largest projects, dies of coronavirus

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Allen Y. Lew , a former Washington , D.C. , city administrator who built the capital 's convention center and Nationals Park , died of COVID-19 , his family said Tuesday .
He was 69 .
Lew died in New York City , where he 'd worked since December as vice chancellor for facilities and planning for the City University of New York , his wife , Suling Lew , told The Washington Post .
Lew led the Sports and Entertainment Commission in Washington while Anthony Williams was mayor and oversaw the $ 3.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sports facilities under Mayor Adrian Fenty .
He 'd also served as city administrator .
`` With Allen at the helm , our biggest challenges could be tackled by assembling a dedicated team , communicating a vision , and demonstrating a relentless commitment to seeing it through .
His legacy will live on in the many public servants who still serve our city and who learned from Allen , '' she said .
`` He taught us that in public service , you do not need to choose between quality and efficiency as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's determination to get projects done at a break-neck pace often ruffled feathers at first but eventually earned fans , the Post reported .
When Paul J. Cohn , a prominent D.C. restaurant owner and convention center board member , recommended Lew to head the sports authority , Councilman Jack Evans first questioned the idea .
`` Jack calls and asks , 'Who is this Allen Lew guy ?
He 's stepping on all these toes , ' '' Cohn had told the Post .
`` I told Jack , 'You did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You told me you wanted someone to build a stadium . '
'' According to his CCNY biography , he served as D.C. 's city administrator from 2011 to 2105 , managing a budget of about $ 10 billion yearly with some $ 7 billion worth of capital programs and 30,000 employees .
He renovated Washington 's public schools while serving as executive director of the Office of Public Education Facilities Modernization from 2007 to 2010 .
The effort won awards in urban academic architecture and environmentally-friendly design .
A native of New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's degree in architecture from CCNY and his master 's degree in architecture and urban design from Columbia University .

Allen Y. Lew died of coronavirus less than a year after he moved to New York City to work for the City University of New York. Photo courtesy of City College of New York
June 23 (UPI) -- Allen Y. Lew, a former Washington, D.C., city administrator who built the capital's convention center and Nationals Park, died of COVID-19, his family said Tuesday. He was 69. Lew died in New York City, where he'd worked since December as vice chancellor for facilities and planning for the City University of New York, his wife, Suling Lew, told The Washington Post. Advertisement
Lew led the Sports and Entertainment Commission in Washington while Anthony Williams was mayor and oversaw the $3.5 billion overhaul of public school buildings and sports facilities under Mayor Adrian Fenty. He'd also served as city administrator.
District Mayor Muriel Bowser said Lew left behind a "remarkable legacy."
"With Allen at the helm, our biggest challenges could be tackled by assembling a dedicated team, communicating a vision, and demonstrating a relentless commitment to seeing it through. His legacy will live on in the many public servants who still serve our city and who learned from Allen," she said.
"He taught us that in public service, you do not need to choose between quality and efficiency as embracing both yields excellence."
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Lew's determination to get projects done at a break-neck pace often ruffled feathers at first but eventually earned fans, the Post reported. When Paul J. Cohn, a prominent D.C. restaurant owner and convention center board member, recommended Lew to head the sports authority, Councilman Jack Evans first questioned the idea.
"Jack calls and asks, 'Who is this Allen Lew guy? He's stepping on all these toes,'" Cohn had told the Post. "I told Jack, 'You didn't tell me you wanted a politician. You told me you wanted someone to build a stadium.'"
According to his CCNY biography, he served as D.C.'s city administrator from 2011 to 2105, managing a budget of about $10 billion yearly with some $7 billion worth of capital programs and 30,000 employees.
He renovated Washington's public schools while serving as executive director of the Office of Public Education Facilities Modernization from 2007 to 2010. The effort won awards in urban academic architecture and environmentally-friendly design.
A native of New York City, Lew earned his bachelor's degree in architecture from CCNY and his master's degree in architecture and urban design from Columbia University.
Notable deaths of 2020


upi--2020-06-23--Tropical Storm Dolly becomes 2nd earliest D-named storm in Atlantic

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Subtropical Depression Four strengthened into Tropical Storm Dolly well off of the northeastern United States coast on Tuesday .
Not only did Dolly become a rare June D-named storm , only the third in recorded history , but it also will go down in the history books as the second-earliest fourth-named storm in the basin .
The storm 's maximum sustained winds strengthened to 45 mph Tuesday , while it churned offshore of the East Coast , about 370 miles south of Nova Scotia , according to the National Hurricane Center .
The system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warm enough to support tropical development , according AccuWeather 's top hurricane expert Dan Kottlowski .
The threshold that forecasters look for in order for tropical systems to develop or survive is 80 degrees Fahrenheit .
There was only a small window of opportunity for Dolly to develop as the system is expected to move over cooler water later on Tuesday , according to AccuWeather meteorologist Mary Gilbert .
Dolly will not pose any threat to land , and its lifespan will be extremely short .
The disturbance is expected to pass well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scotia Tuesday afternoon and night , according to Kottlowski .
Even though it will remain out to sea over its lifetime , it could stir rough seas and cause disruptions in the path of shipping interests .
It is extremely rare to have four named tropical storms by the end of June .
According to records from the NHC , the month of June has only produced two other D-named storms : Tropical Storm Debby from 2012 and Tropical Storm Danielle from 2016 .
Debby formed over the south-central Gulf of Mexico before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Florida on June 26 , 2012 .
The system weakened soon after moving inland , but it produced a considerable amount of flooding across northern and central portions of the state .
Danielle formed in a similar area and was a short-lived tropical storm that developed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico .
The weak tropical storm made landfall near Tamiahua in eastern Mexico on June 20 , 2016 .
According to AccuWeather senior weather editor and meteorologist Jesse Ferrell , there have been 69 D-named storms in the Atlantic since storms were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most common of those names are Dolly at eight times and the aforementioned Debby and Danielle at seven times apiece .
Danielle 's formation on June 20 , 2016 , just prior to landfall still holds the record for the earliest formation of the fourth tropical storm of the season .
So far , eight D-named storms have been retired , including Hurricane Diane in 1955 and Hurricane Dean in 2007 .
Hurricane Dorian from 2019 is expected to be retired sometime this year .
Ferrell said all of the retired D-named storms @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Dennis , which formed the earliest on July 4 , 2005 .
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season experienced its earliest third-named storm on record when Cristobal formed near the coast of southeastern Mexico on June 2 .
The remainder of the Atlantic Ocean is quiet due to an `` abnormally '' large dust cloud spanning most of the basin and the presence of strong wind shear , or increasing winds with altitude .

June 23 (UPI) -- Subtropical Depression Four strengthened into Tropical Storm Dolly well off of the northeastern United States coast on Tuesday.
Not only did Dolly become a rare June D-named storm, only the third in recorded history, but it also will go down in the history books as the second-earliest fourth-named storm in the basin.
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The storm's maximum sustained winds strengthened to 45 mph Tuesday, while it churned offshore of the East Coast, about 370 miles south of Nova Scotia, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The system managed to strengthen over water that is warm enough to support tropical development, according AccuWeather's top hurricane expert Dan Kottlowski. The threshold that forecasters look for in order for tropical systems to develop or survive is 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
There was only a small window of opportunity for Dolly to develop as the system is expected to move over cooler water later on Tuesday, according to AccuWeather meteorologist Mary Gilbert.
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Dolly will not pose any threat to land, and its lifespan will be extremely short.
The disturbance is expected to pass well to the south and east of Nova Scotia Tuesday afternoon and night, according to Kottlowski. Even though it will remain out to sea over its lifetime, it could stir rough seas and cause disruptions in the path of shipping interests.
It is extremely rare to have four named tropical storms by the end of June. According to records from the NHC, the month of June has only produced two other D-named storms: Tropical Storm Debby from 2012 and Tropical Storm Danielle from 2016.
Debby formed over the south-central Gulf of Mexico before slamming into the Big Bend area of Florida on June 26, 2012. The system weakened soon after moving inland, but it produced a considerable amount of flooding across northern and central portions of the state. Danielle formed in a similar area and was a short-lived tropical storm that developed over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico. The weak tropical storm made landfall near Tamiahua in eastern Mexico on June 20, 2016.
According to AccuWeather senior weather editor and meteorologist Jesse Ferrell, there have been 69 D-named storms in the Atlantic since storms were officially named starting in 1950. The most common of those names are Dolly at eight times and the aforementioned Debby and Danielle at seven times apiece.
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Danielle's formation on June 20, 2016, just prior to landfall still holds the record for the earliest formation of the fourth tropical storm of the season.
So far, eight D-named storms have been retired, including Hurricane Diane in 1955 and Hurricane Dean in 2007. Hurricane Dorian from 2019 is expected to be retired sometime this year. Ferrell said all of the retired D-named storms formed in August, with the exception of Dennis, which formed the earliest on July 4, 2005.
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season experienced its earliest third-named storm on record when Cristobal formed near the coast of southeastern Mexico on June 2.
The remainder of the Atlantic Ocean is quiet due to an "abnormally" large dust cloud spanning most of the basin and the presence of strong wind shear, or increasing winds with altitude.


upi--2020-06-23--USS Nitze sails into contested waters off coast of Venezuela

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The USS Nitze sailed into contested waters off the coast of Venezuela Tuesday in what the Navy describes as a `` freedom of navigation operation '' contesting `` an excessive maritime claim '' by Venezuela .
According to the Navy , Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer conducted the operation outside of Venezuela 's 12-nautical-mile territorial jurisdiction -- an area the Maduro regime claims control over .
`` The U.S. Navy routinely conducts freedom of navigation operations around the world to preserve the maritime navigation and access rights guaranteed to all nations and vital to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said the Navy 's press release on the operation .
The Navy and Coast Guard are currently operating in the Caribbean as part of a counter-narcotics operation announced earlier this spring .
`` The United States will continue to fly , sail and operate wherever international law allows , preserving the rights , freedoms and lawful use of the sea and airspace guaranteed to all nations , '' said Adm. Craig Faller , Commander of U.S. Southern Command .
`` These freedoms are the bedrock of ongoing security efforts , and essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Official U.S. Navy file photo of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze departs Safaga, Egypt after a port visit in this July 2019 photo. On June 23, 2020, while peacefully operating in the Caribbean Sea, USS Nitze conducted a freedom of navigation operation off the coast of Venezuela. Photo by Will Hardy/U.S. Navy
June 23 (UPI) -- The USS Nitze sailed into contested waters off the coast of Venezuela Tuesday in what the Navy describes as a "freedom of navigation operation" contesting "an excessive maritime claim" by Venezuela. According to the Navy, Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer conducted the operation outside of Venezuela's 12-nautical-mile territorial jurisdiction -- an area the Maduro regime claims control over. Advertisement
"The U.S. Navy routinely conducts freedom of navigation operations around the world to preserve the maritime navigation and access rights guaranteed to all nations and vital to the global mobility of U.S. forces," said the Navy's press release on the operation.
The Navy and Coast Guard are currently operating in the Caribbean as part of a counter-narcotics operation announced earlier this spring.
"The United States will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, preserving the rights, freedoms and lawful use of the sea and airspace guaranteed to all nations," said Adm. Craig Faller, Commander of U.S. Southern Command. "These freedoms are the bedrock of ongoing security efforts, and essential to regional peace and stability."


upi--2020-06-23--Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic tests positive for coronavirus

June 23 ( UPI ) -- Denver Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic tested positive for the coronavirus in his native Serbia , temporarily delaying his return to the United States as the NBA nears its return .
League sources told ESPN and the Denver Post on Tuesday that Jokic tested positive for the virus last week and has been asymptomatic .
According to the outlets , he is expected to be cleared to travel to Denver within a week .
According to league protocols , Jokic will need two negative test results within 24 hours in Serbia before receiving clearance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man arrives in Denver , he will be required to undergo a cardiac screening and again test negative for the virus .
Jokic recently spent time with tennis star Novak Djokovic -- a Serbian countryman -- at an event in Belgrade .
Djokovic announced Tuesday that he also tested positive for the coronavirus .
All NBA players were advised to return to their respective cities by Monday , and players who were overseas were to be back in their market by June 15 .
According to the Denver Post , the NBA granted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an extended period .
NBA teams , including the Nuggets , returned to team facilities Tuesday to begin testing protocols ahead of traveling to Orlando , Fla .
Under the league 's 22-team restart , mandatory individual workouts in home markets start July 1 , and clubs will begin formal training camps between July 7 and 9 .
Jokic averaged 20.2 points , 10.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game before the NBA suspended its season in mid-March because of the pandemic .
The Nuggets ( 43-22 ) are the No .
3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only the Los Angeles Lakers and L.A. Clippers .

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic averaged 20.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game before the NBA suspended its season in mid-March because of the coronavirus pandemic. Photo courtesy of the NBA
June 23 (UPI) -- Denver Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic tested positive for the coronavirus in his native Serbia, temporarily delaying his return to the United States as the NBA nears its return. League sources told ESPN and the Denver Post on Tuesday that Jokic tested positive for the virus last week and has been asymptomatic. According to the outlets, he is expected to be cleared to travel to Denver within a week. Advertisement
According to league protocols, Jokic will need two negative test results within 24 hours in Serbia before receiving clearance to travel. Once the All-Star big man arrives in Denver, he will be required to undergo a cardiac screening and again test negative for the virus.
Jokic recently spent time with tennis star Novak Djokovic -- a Serbian countryman -- at an event in Belgrade. Djokovic announced Tuesday that he also tested positive for the coronavirus.
All NBA players were advised to return to their respective cities by Monday, and players who were overseas were to be back in their market by June 15. According to the Denver Post, the NBA granted Jokic an exception to stay overseas for an extended period.
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NBA teams, including the Nuggets, returned to team facilities Tuesday to begin testing protocols ahead of traveling to Orlando, Fla. Under the league's 22-team restart, mandatory individual workouts in home markets start July 1, and clubs will begin formal training camps between July 7 and 9.
Jokic averaged 20.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game before the NBA suspended its season in mid-March because of the pandemic.
The Nuggets (43-22) are the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference, trailing only the Los Angeles Lakers and L.A. Clippers.


upi--2020-06-23--147 South Korean soldiers' remains repatriated

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The remains of 147 South Korean soldiers from the Korean war were repatriated at a Tuesday ceremony at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii .
`` This , like the past repatriation , is due to the strong and long standing partnership between the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and [ South Korea 's ] Ministry of National Defense Agency for KIA Recovery and Identification , '' said Defense Prisoners of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency public affairs official Lee Tucker .
`` It is the incredible improvements in technology , advancements in forensic science and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to these identifications . ''
Scientists from both countries ' defense agencies have conducted joint forensic reviews and validated 147 remains as being of South Korean origin , with 77 being from remains North Korea turned over in 55 boxes in July 2018 and the others from remains repatriated in the early 1990s .
The Pentagon describes this week 's repatriation as the largest repatriation of South Korean soldiers ' remains to date .
The soldiers fought along U.S. troops against North Korea in the war , which lasted from 1950 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a repatriation ceremony in Seoul , hosted by President Moon Jae-in .
That date coincides with the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War , which lasted until 1953 .
Seven South Korean family members have been identified as having DNA matches to seven of the 147 remains .
Those family members will be at the ceremony in Seoul .

The remains of 147 South Korean soldiers were repatriated at a Tuesday ceremony. Image via Department of Defense/ Twitter
June 23 (UPI) -- The remains of 147 South Korean soldiers from the Korean war were repatriated at a Tuesday ceremony at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. "This, like the past repatriation, is due to the strong and long standing partnership between the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and [South Korea's] Ministry of National Defense Agency for KIA Recovery and Identification," said Defense Prisoners of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency public affairs official Lee Tucker. "It is the incredible improvements in technology, advancements in forensic science and the strong partnership between DPAA and MAKRI which led to these identifications." Advertisement
Scientists from both countries' defense agencies have conducted joint forensic reviews and validated 147 remains as being of South Korean origin, with 77 being from remains North Korea turned over in 55 boxes in July 2018 and the others from remains repatriated in the early 1990s.
The Pentagon describes this week's repatriation as the largest repatriation of South Korean soldiers' remains to date.
The soldiers fought along U.S. troops against North Korea in the war, which lasted from 1950 to 1953.
On Thursday there will be a repatriation ceremony in Seoul, hosted by President Moon Jae-in.
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That date coincides with the 70th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War, which lasted until 1953.
Seven South Korean family members have been identified as having DNA matches to seven of the 147 remains. Those family members will be at the ceremony in Seoul.


upi--2020-06-23--EU weighs barring travelers from United States, Russia, Brazil in border reopening plan

June 23 ( UPI ) -- The European Union is weighing blocking travelers from the United States and a handful of other countries as it prepares to reopen its borders after shutting them down in response to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Draft lists of acceptable travelers reviewed by The New York Times showed that travelers from the United States , Russia and Brazil would not be permitted to enter the European bloc .
The United States has reported 2.3 million positive cases of COVID-19 and 121,119 deaths , both of which are the highest in the world , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Florida , Arizona , California and the Carolinas have also experienced a surge in cases in recent weeks .
Brazil has reported the second-highest figures , with 1.1 million positive cases and a death toll of 51,271 , while Russia is third in cases with 598,878 and 14th in deaths with 8,349 , according to Johns Hopkins .
The EU is debating two separate lists of approved travelers , both of which include China , where the novel coronavirus first emerged , as well as Uganda , Cuba and Vietnam , The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include countries that may present a high risk of spreading the virus , such as the United States .
A report by Sky News stated that the EU was also considering banning travel from India and Russia along with the United States , Russia and Brazil .
The EU is expected to issue an announcement on its travel policies , which are set to take effect July 1 .
An unnamed EU diplomat told CNN that the criteria for what countries would be allowed would focus on the circulation of the virus in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelers from nations `` where the virus is circulating most actively . ''
EU officials told The Times the list would be revised every two weeks to reflect changes in the number of cases throughout the world .

European officials are considering blocking travelers from the United States, Russia and Brazil among some other nations likely to spread COVID-19 as the bloc prepares to reopen international travel. File Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
June 23 (UPI) -- The European Union is weighing blocking travelers from the United States and a handful of other countries as it prepares to reopen its borders after shutting them down in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Draft lists of acceptable travelers reviewed by The New York Times showed that travelers from the United States, Russia and Brazil would not be permitted to enter the European bloc. Advertisement
The United States has reported 2.3 million positive cases of COVID-19 and 121,119 deaths, both of which are the highest in the world, according to figures by Johns Hopkins University. States including Florida, Arizona, California and the Carolinas have also experienced a surge in cases in recent weeks.
Brazil has reported the second-highest figures, with 1.1 million positive cases and a death toll of 51,271, while Russia is third in cases with 598,878 and 14th in deaths with 8,349, according to Johns Hopkins.
The EU is debating two separate lists of approved travelers, both of which include China, where the novel coronavirus first emerged, as well as Uganda, Cuba and Vietnam, The Times, reported. The lists also include countries that may present a high risk of spreading the virus, such as the United States.
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A report by Sky News stated that the EU was also considering banning travel from India and Russia along with the United States, Russia and Brazil.
The EU is expected to issue an announcement on its travel policies, which are set to take effect July 1.
An unnamed EU diplomat told CNN that the criteria for what countries would be allowed would focus on the circulation of the virus in each country and would seek to exclude travelers from nations "where the virus is circulating most actively."
EU officials told The Times the list would be revised every two weeks to reflect changes in the number of cases throughout the world.
World moves to reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic