usatoday--2020-06-28--Louisville shooting: At least one person killed in Jefferson Square Park where Black Lives Matter pr

LOUISVILLE , Ky. — Two people were shot and one person was killed in downtown Louisville Saturday evening , according to police .
According to police , around 9 p.m. , shots were fired in Jefferson Square Park .
Personnel from the Jefferson County Sheriff 's Department performed life-saving measures on a male victim who eventually died .
Shortly thereafter , police received reports of another person shot at the Hall of Justice .
That person was taken to University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries .
`` Officers cleared the park completely and have secured the entire area so homicide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LMPD spokesman Lamont Washington wrote Saturday evening at 11:27 p.m. `` Detectives are trying to gather as much information as possible in order to identify all who were involved in the incident . ''
Washington added that the park will remain closed for the next several hours , and that police will provide additional information in the morning as it becomes available .
WATCH LIVE : Police remain at scene of shooting at Jefferson Square Park The park has been the scene of protests over the police shooting of Breonna Taylor for weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have been staying overnight .
A video on Facebook of the scene shows a man firing a gun .
People screamed for a medic , and at least one person was down on the ground .
Anna , who came to the park Saturday evening to meet with other protesters to march in downtown Louisville , said she was n't sure where the shots came from , as she had heard fireworks at the protests before .
Almost immediately , everyone started running , and Anna did , too .
She and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bank and banged on the doors to let them in , `` because we were freaked out . ''
When she returned to Jefferson Square Park about 30 minutes later , Anna said there were 30 to 40 officers outside .
Julie Sullivan , an activist with Kentucky Alliance Against Racism and Political Repression who was at Jefferson Square Park during the shooting , said she started yelling at everyone to `` get down '' when she heard the gun shots .
Sullivan said she tried to help a women find her kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She added that police eventually blocked off the camp at Jefferson Square Park .
`` The cops had it blocked off , and they were telling us to get out , '' Sullivan said .
`` And everybody started to walk , and I was like , 'Take whatever you need . '
Because these people are living here .
Their cell phones or whatever might be in the camp . ''
At the corner of Jefferson and Fifth streets , there were more than a dozen police cruisers around 9:45 p.m. , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No person is being allowed inside the park , according to a Courier Journal reporter at the scene , with police interviewing people inside the park .
Shortly before 10 p.m. , a group of LMPD officers arrived in Jefferson Square Park in riot gear .
Several people confronted the officers .
The Transit Authority of River City , or TARC , announced at 10:04 p.m. that all stops between Broadway & River Road , and between First & Ninth streets in the downtown Louisville area , are closed for the remainder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Louisville Metro Police were pushing a group to a sidewalk across from Jefferson Square Park , declaring an unlawful assembly and threatening to use force .
Uniformed police are guarding tents at Jefferson Square Park and are facing Metro Hall .
At 10:30 p.m. , a group of protesters held a moment of silence for those who were shot .
Chants of `` say her name , Breonna Taylor '' broke out afterwards .
By 11:15 p.m. , there was still a large police presence at Jefferson Square Park .
Things were mostly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between police and protesters , and chants had stopped .
Democratic Kentucky Senate candidate Charles Booker wrote in a tweet Saturday night `` praying for our city '' in response to the shooting .

Louisville shooting: At least one person killed in Jefferson Square Park where Black Lives Matter protests held
Show Caption Hide Caption Video appears to show gunman opening fire at Louisville park protest Dramatic video appears to show the gunman shooting near peaceful protesters who gathered in the park. Storyful, Wochit
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Two people were shot and one person was killed in downtown Louisville on Saturday in a park where Black Lives Matter protests were held, police said.
Shots were fired in Jefferson Square Park around 9 p.m., police said, and Jefferson County Sheriff's Department personnel performed live-saving measures on a man later identified as Tyler Gerth, who eventually died.
The 27-year-old had been a supporter of ongoing protests against racism and police brutality.
Shortly after the first shooting, police received reports of another person shot at the Hall of Justice. That person, the accused shooter, was taken to University of Louisville Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, officials confirmed Sunday. He has not yet been publicly identified.
Officials also announced early Sunday that tents that had been raised by protesters speaking out against the police shooting of Breonna Taylor were being torn down and people would no longer be able to stay overnight in the park, though protesters vowed to return.
Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said in a statement Saturday evening that he is "deeply saddened by the violence that erupted in Jefferson Square Park tonight, where those who have been voicing their concerns have been gathered."
"It is a tragedy that this area of peaceful protest is now a crime scene," Fischer said. "My thanks to the first responders who assisted at the scene. I will have more to say tomorrow, as additional information becomes available."
I’m downtown at the corner of 5th and Jefferson where there were reports of shots fired about 30 minutes ago with “multiple victims” but no immediate information. Lots of LMPD on scene. This is the epicenter of Louisville’s daily Black Lives Matter protesta. @courierjournal pic.twitter.com/tK2KGehWgK — Savannah Eadens (@SavannahEadens) June 28, 2020
A video on Facebook of the scene shows a man firing a gun. People screamed for a medic, and at least one person was down on the ground.
Julie Sullivan, an activist with Kentucky Alliance Against Racism and Political Repression who was at Jefferson Square Park during the shooting, said she started yelling at everyone to "get down" when she heard the gunshots.
Sullivan said she tried to help a women find her kids shortly after hearing the shots. She said police eventually blocked off the camp at Jefferson Square Park.
"The cops had it blocked off, and they were telling us to get out," Sullivan said. "And everybody started to walk, and I was like, 'Take whatever you need.' Because these people are living here. Their cell phones or whatever might be in the camp."
At the corner of Jefferson and Fifth streets, there were more than a dozen police cruisers around 9:45 p.m., with tape blocking off Jefferson Square Park.
LMPD brought in some officers in riot gear following the reported shooting in Jefferson Square Park. @courierjournal pic.twitter.com/FPk1NGL3RN — Not Ben Tobin (@Billy_Kobin) June 28, 2020
Shortly before 10 p.m., a group of LMPD officers arrived in Jefferson Square Park in riot gear. Several people confronted the officers.
Around 10:15 p.m., Louisville Metro Police were pushing a group to a sidewalk across from Jefferson Square Park, declaring an unlawful assembly and threatening to use force.
At 10:30 p.m., a group of protesters held a moment of silence for those who were shot. Chants of "say her name, Breonna Taylor" broke out afterward.
Democratic Kentucky Senate candidate Charles Booker wrote in a tweet Saturday night "praying for our city" in response to the shooting.


usatoday--2020-06-28--No presidential winner on election night? Mail-in ballots could put outcome in doubt for weeks

WASHINGTON — Kentucky wo n't have final results of last week 's state primary until Tuesday .
New York could take twice as long .
In Pennsylvania , the state 's largest city , Philadelphia , was still tallying mail-in ballots nearly two weeks after its June 2 primary .
The unprecedented volume of mail-in ballots during the coronavirus pandemic has produced hiccups in some state primaries and operated smoothly in others .
But one thing is constant : States have shattered turnout records for primaries because of the deluge of mail-in ballots , forcing election officials to need days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the votes .
Fast-forward to the Nov. 3 presidential election , when all 50 states and the District of Columbia will vote the same day .
Many states are expected to turn to mass mail-in voting again but this time for a presidential race that will draw significantly greater turnout than primaries .
More : ' A substantial challenge ' : What Kentucky , New York tell us about voting in a pandemic come November In the race between President Donald Trump and Democratic presumptive nominee Joe Biden , down to races for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts have a warning : Unless there 's a clear and decisive winner , brace for an election week or weeks , not an election night .
`` I think 'weeks ' is potentially being generous , '' said Joe Burns , a Republican election attorney for the Lawyers Democracy Fund .
Burns , a former election official with the New York State Board of Election , said it can already takes weeks to count mail-in ballots in states where just 5 % vote absentee .
`` Well , if you go and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 10 , you would think it would take that much longer . ''
He added : `` If you 're a candidate , if you 're an election lawyer , do n't make to many plans for November . ''
The media likes to crown presidential winners as soon as a candidate clears the 270-delegate threshold .
Television networks projected Donald Trump the winner of the 2016 election around 2:45 a.m .
ET .
Barack Obama was declared the winner on election nights in both his victories , around 11 p.m .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ET in 2012 .
The most drawn-out – and controversial – election in U.S. history was in 2000 , when television networks declared George W. Bush the winner on election night , only to revert back to `` too close to call '' as votes trickled in from Florida .
The contest effectively ended five weeks later on Dec. 12 when the U.S. Supreme Court halted a vote recount in Florida .
More : 'Nonsense ' : Election experts reject Trump 's claim that foreign countries could counterfeit millions of mail-in ballots Election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could set the stage for greater controversial – potentially attempts by candidates to invalidate the results – because of the raging fight over vote-by-mail .
President Trump has accused Democrats of seeking to `` rig '' and `` steal '' the election by supporting expanded vote-by-mail during the pandemic , which he 's slammed without evidence as fraudulent .
A campaign fundraising email last week called Democrats `` thieves . ''
Biden said he 's wondered whether Trump would willingly leave the White House if he loses and that his `` single greatest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steal the election '' by limiting voter access .
`` It is extremely unlikely we 're going to have final results on election night , '' said Lawrence Norden , director of the Election Reform Program for the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York School of Law .
He called it a `` different kind of election this year '' that could mean at least several days to count all the votes .
More : Biden and Trump each warn that other side may 'steal ' the election as fight over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ real concern because there 's so much disinformation around the election that people will use that to delegitimize the count .
It 's why I think it 's so important ( for ) people to know ahead of time that 's going to be the reality .
It does n't mean that there 's anything in wrong .
It means that we 're doing our jobs to make sure the votes are counted accurately . ''
Larry Diamond , a political science professor at Stanford University and fellow at the Hoover Institution , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public not understanding that it might take days or more to count mail-in ballots – could lead to an election fight like the U.S. has never seen .
“ We ’ ve really got significant scope for an unprecedented post-election crisis in the United States , ” Diamond said .
How all mail-in election states handle the load Thirty-four states and Washington , D.C. , already allowed all registered voters to vote by mail without an excuse before the COVID-19 pandemic .
Thirteen states took action to send mail-ballot applications in primaries this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ November election .
In several of the 16 states where voters must provide an excuse to receive an absentee ballot – being over 65 years old , out of town during Election Day or in the military , for example – concerns about coronavirus now qualify as a reason .
Most states made the change only for primary elections and are waiting to see whether to extend to November .
Five states – Colorado , Hawaii , Oregon , Utah and Washington – conduct elections entirely by mail by sending ballots to all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same for the November election .
`` My concern is it 's going to take probably the entire month of November for most states to count their mail-in or absentee ballots , and we may not know the results of the election until the end of November , '' said Kim Wyman , Republican secretary of state of Washington , which has conducted elections by mail since the 1991 .
More : 'Do-or-die moment ' to boost vote-by-mail for November election .
But the politics is getting harder By state law , Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before Election Day , giving counties a head-start to go through several time-consuming steps to verify authenticity .
Early mail ballots typically account for half the overall vote in Washington .
The early results are announced after voting ends .
But because votes postmarked on or near Election Day trickle continued to arrive days later , it 's normal for vote-by-mail elections to take longer .
Wyman said she 's worried about the additional burden on states where absentee voting is n't as historically prevalent .
These states will still be required to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mail-in voting through equipment and personnel .
This includes having enough scanners , ballot sorters , signature verification machines and other equipment , as well as space to count the ballots .
`` They are going to need to ramp this up , '' Wyman said , calling on Congress to allocate more funds for elections .
`` And now we 're down to four months . ''
Amber McReynolds , CEO of the National Vote at Home Institute , said having enough equipment wo n't help much with producing timely results unless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ processing mail-in ballots ahead of Election Day .
Presidential battlegrounds such as Pennsylvania , Wisconsin and Michigan are among states considering legislation that would allow election officials to get a head start on processing absentee ballots .
`` By not allowing that processing in advance they 're also creating a backlog and a stress on in-person voting that really is n't necessary , '' said McReynolds , who previously served as director of elections in Denver , where elections are conducted entirely by mail .
`` If they want to make sure their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on for results , they should make that adjustment as soon as possible . ''
In Pennsylvania , 1.5 million people voted by mail for its June 2 primary – nearly 18 times the 84,000 who did in 2016 , accounting for more than half the overall vote .
It was the state 's first statewide election with no-excuse absentee voting .
Historically , only 4 % of Pennsylvanians vote by mail .
A state auditor race was n't decided until 10 days after the election as counties tallied all the mail ballots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed to vote by mail in November .
Complicating Pennsylvania 's ability to finish counting votes in the primary , according to Wanda Murren , a spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania Secretary of State office , six counties , including Philadelphia County , were granted an extra week to count and report mail-in votes because of protests over police brutality .
The state also had a spike in provisional ballots from voters who arrived at a polling site after they had previously requested mail ballots .
`` We 're looking real closely at where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't , and what was the difference , '' Murren said .
`` We already know the equipment makes a huge difference , the amount of staffing makes a huge difference . ''
In the coming months , vote-by-mail advocates want to build public awareness on the potential elongated election timeline .
`` I know we like instant gratification , but we need to come to terms with the fact that if the election is close we will not have results on Election Day this year and that 's okay , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ridge , who now co-chairs SafeVote , a nonprofit that is advocating for vote-by-mail expansion .
`` We should expect an election week rather than Election Day . ''
Others believe more help is needed nationally for voter confidence if the outcome is in doubt for days or weeks .
William Galston , a senior fellow for the Brookings Institution ’ s Governance Studies Program , said in the `` best of all possible worlds '' an election with a large share of mail-in ballots will have a substantial gap between Election Day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need is not just better mechanics , but also a very substantial bipartisan leadership consensus declaring itself in advance opposed to any efforts to delegitimate the election by either wide . ''
He suggested assembling a panel with the likes of Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , former Democratic Majority Leader Tom Daschle and even former presidents .
`` We 're going to need an overall canopy of legitimization in order to prevent a worst case scenario , '' Galston said .

No presidential winner on election night? Mail-in ballots could put outcome in doubt for weeks
Show Caption Hide Caption Elections 2020: Mail-in voting could decide next president Many states are planning on drastically different elections this year and mail-in ballots could be a big game changer. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Kentucky won't have final results of last week's state primary until Tuesday. New York could take twice as long. In Pennsylvania, the state's largest city, Philadelphia, was still tallying mail-in ballots nearly two weeks after its June 2 primary.
The unprecedented volume of mail-in ballots during the coronavirus pandemic has produced hiccups in some state primaries and operated smoothly in others.
But one thing is constant: States have shattered turnout records for primaries because of the deluge of mail-in ballots, forcing election officials to need days, even weeks, to count all the votes.
Fast-forward to the Nov. 3 presidential election, when all 50 states and the District of Columbia will vote the same day. Many states are expected to turn to mass mail-in voting again but this time for a presidential race that will draw significantly greater turnout than primaries.
More: 'A substantial challenge': What Kentucky, New York tell us about voting in a pandemic come November
In the race between President Donald Trump and Democratic presumptive nominee Joe Biden, down to races for Congress and even local contests, voting experts have a warning: Unless there's a clear and decisive winner, brace for an election week or weeks, not an election night.
"I think 'weeks' is potentially being generous," said Joe Burns, a Republican election attorney for the Lawyers Democracy Fund.
Burns, a former election official with the New York State Board of Elections, said it can already takes weeks to count mail-in ballots in states where just 5% vote absentee. "Well, if you go and increase the absentee ballots by a factor of 10, you would think it would take that much longer."
He added: "If you're a candidate, if you're an election lawyer, don't make too many plans post election."
Worries about a 'post-election crisis'
The media likes to crown presidential winners as soon as a candidate clears the 270-delegate threshold. Television networks projected Trump the winner of the 2016 election around 2:45 a.m. ET. Barack Obama was declared the winner on election nights in both his victories, around 11 p.m. ET in 2008 and 11:20 p.m. ET in 2012.
The most drawn-out – and controversial – election in U.S. history was in 2000, when television networks declared George W. Bush the winner on election night, only to revert to "too close to call" as votes trickled in from Florida. The contest effectively ended five weeks later on Dec. 12 when the U.S. Supreme Court halted a vote recount in Florida.
More: 'Nonsense': Election experts reject Trump's claim that foreign countries could counterfeit millions of mail-in ballots
Election experts worry a prolonged outcome this year could set the stage for greater controversial – potentially attempts by candidates to invalidate the results – because of the raging fight over vote-by-mail.
Trump has accused Democrats of seeking to "rig" and "steal" the election by supporting expanded vote-by-mail during the pandemic, which he has slammed without evidence as fraudulent. A campaign fundraising email last week called Democrats "thieves." Biden said he has wondered whether Trump would willingly leave the White House if he loses and that his "single greatest concern" is that Trump will "steal the election" by limiting voter access.
"It is extremely unlikely we're going to have final results on election night," said Lawrence Norden, director of the Election Reform Program for the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York School of Law. He called it a "different kind of election this year" that could mean at least several days to count all the votes.
More: Biden and Trump each warn that other side may 'steal' the election as fight over mail voting rages
"This is a real concern because there's so much disinformation around the election that people will use that to delegitimize the count. It's why I think it's so important (for) people to know ahead of time that's going to be the reality. It doesn't mean that there's anything in wrong. It means that we're doing our jobs to make sure the votes are counted accurately."
Larry Diamond, a political science professor at Stanford University and fellow at the Hoover Institution, said a close election – and the public not understanding that it might take days or more to count mail-in ballots – could lead to an election fight like the U.S. has never seen.
“We’ve really got significant scope for an unprecedented post-election crisis in the United States,” Diamond said.
How all mail-in election states handle the load
Thirty-four states and Washington, D.C., already allowed all registered voters to vote by mail without an excuse before the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirteen states took action to send mail-ballot applications in primaries this year and in some cases for the November election.
In several of the 16 states where voters must provide an excuse to receive an absentee ballot – being over 65 years old, out of town during Election Day or in the military, for example – concerns about the coronavirus now qualify as a reason. Most states made the change only for primary elections and are waiting to see whether to extend to November.
Five states – Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah and Washington – conduct elections entirely by mail by sending ballots to all registered voters. California will do the same for the November election.
"My concern is it's going to take probably the entire month of November for most states to count their mail-in or absentee ballots, and we may not know the results of the election until the end of November," said Kim Wyman, Republican secretary of state of Washington, which has conducted elections by mail since the 1991.
More: 'Do-or-die moment' to boost vote-by-mail for November election. But the politics is getting harder
By state law, Washington can start processing mail-in ballots 10 days before Election Day, giving counties a head-start to go through several time-consuming steps to verify authenticity. Early mail ballots typically account for half the overall vote in Washington. The early results are announced after voting ends. But because votes postmarked on or near Election Day can arrive days later, it's normal for vote-by-mail elections to take longer.
Wyman said she's worried about the additional burden on states where absentee voting isn't as widespread historically. These states will still be required to maintain in-person voting while building capacity for mail-in voting with more equipment and personnel. This includes having enough scanners, ballot sorters and signature verification machines, as well as space to count the ballots.
"They are going to need to ramp this up," Wyman said, calling on Congress to allocate more money for elections. "And now we're down to four months."
State law changes key for timely results
Amber McReynolds, CEO of the National Vote at Home Institute, said having enough equipment won't help much with producing timely results unless states rewrite laws allowing them to begin processing mail-in ballots ahead of Election Day.
Presidential battlegrounds such as Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan are among states considering legislation that would allow election officials to get a head start on processing absentee ballots.
"By not allowing that processing in advance they're also creating a backlog and a stress on in-person voting that really isn't necessary," said McReynolds, who previously served as director of elections in Denver, where elections are conducted entirely by mail. "If they want to make sure their states aren't the ones being waited on for results, they should make that adjustment as soon as possible."
In Pennsylvania, 1.5 million people voted by mail for its June 2 primary – nearly 18 times the 84,000 who did in 2016, accounting for more than half the overall vote. It was the state's first statewide election with no-excuse absentee voting. Historically, only 4% of Pennsylvanians vote by mail. A state auditor race wasn't decided until 10 days after the election as counties tallied all the mail ballots.
All Pennsylvania voters will again be allowed to vote by mail in November.
More: Trump trails Biden in Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina and Arizona, poll finds
Complicating Pennsylvania's ability to finish counting votes in the primary, according to Wanda Murren, a spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania Secretary of State office, six counties, including Philadelphia County, were granted an extra week to count and report mail-in votes because of protests over police brutality.
The state also had a spike in provisional ballots from voters who arrived at a polling site after they had previously requested mail ballots.
"We're looking real closely at where things went most smoothly and where they didn't, and what was the difference," Murren said. "We already know the equipment makes a huge difference, the amount of staffing makes a huge difference."
Public awareness seen as crucial
In the coming months, vote-by-mail advocates want to build public awareness on the potential elongated election timeline.
"I know we like instant gratification, but we need to come to terms with the fact that if the election is close we will not have results on Election Day this year and that's okay," said former Republican Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge, who now co-chairs SafeVote, a nonprofit that is advocating for vote-by-mail expansion. "We should expect an election week rather than Election Day."
Others believe more help is needed nationally for voter confidence if the outcome is in doubt for days or weeks.
William Galston, a senior fellow for the Brookings Institution’s Governance Studies Program, said in the "best of all possible worlds" an election with a large share of mail-in ballots will have a substantial gap between Election Day and the final results.
"What you need is not just better mechanics, but also a very substantial bipartisan leadership consensus declaring itself in advance opposed to any efforts to delegitimate the election by either side."
He suggested assembling a panel with the likes of Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, former Democratic Majority Leader Tom Daschle and even former presidents.
"We're going to need an overall canopy of legitimization in order to prevent a worst case scenario," Galston said.
Reach Joey Garrison on Twitter @joeygarrison.


usatoday--2020-06-28--Newly organized softball team spreads message of racial harmony, wins after Trump tweet backlash

VIERA , Florida — Wearing black socks , pants and jerseys with the words `` THIS IS US '' across their chests , a newly organized pro softball team delivered a message of unity off the field Saturday night and also scored a major victory on it in their historic opener .
Five days after disenfranchising themselves from the Texas-based Scrap Yard Dawgs following a since-deleted general manager 's tweet regarding the national anthem and aimed at President Donald Trump , the 18 players , plus coaches , were back on the field doing what they do best .
Team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — part of 11 Olympic players traveling with the team this summer — combined for seven strikeouts in the 3-1 victory against the USSSA Pride , the reigning two-time National Pro Fastpitch champions .
`` Just because something may seem negative , we showed you can always turn it into a positive , '' said first baseman Sam Fischer .
`` And not be afraid in doing so . ''
`` This Is Us '' began appearing on players ' Twitter handles Thursday .
The next day , the team released a black-and-white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the USSSA Space Coast Complex in the top of the fifth inning as players stood along the first base line .
`` While we were playing our first game of the season , a tweet was sent out on behalf of the organization that was insensitive , offensive and ignorant to the movement going on in this country , '' Fischer says in the video .
The players are emphasizing three points : `` We are here to raise awareness .
We are here to empower .
We are here to unite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 22,000 views as of Saturday morning , drawing comments such as : `` We stand behind you all the way '' and `` So proud of you ladies !
... What a great example you have all shown to the softball community . ''
ESPN 's Holly Rowe , a veteran sideline reporter during the NCAA softball postseason , also chimed in on Twitter : `` I hope some big corporation gets behind this team and supports them .
It takes courage to walk out on your job for what you believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am donating immediately !
!
!
! ''
The new team 's mission statement says it is `` here to spark a necessary change in the softball community , gaining and sharing knowledge about racial injustice in our world . ''
Fischer said the capitalized names on the back of the players ' jerseys are to acknowledge Black players , past and present , who have played and coached the game .
`` I wore Natasha Watley 's name because when I came up I started out as a shortstop and just idolized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said of the Olympian from UCLA .
Monday night , the Dawgs lost 4-0 to the Pride in what was the first professional team sports competition in the U.S. following the coronavirus pandemic shutdown of most athletics in March .
By the time the players gathered in the locker room , word got out that GM Connie May had put up a personal tweet on the team 's official site , catching players off guard .
The confrontation between players and May lasted nearly an hour before Kiki Stokes , the only Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first .
`` I felt alone , isolated , very confused , '' the Nebraska star told many of the estimated 250 fans who stayed after Saturday 's game for a panel discussion .
`` I represented the organization for five years .
A team I trusted .
But I was let down and felt betrayed .
`` But the people ( teammates ) in that room moved mountains for me .
I 'm so grateful for this team and I 'm excited to see what we 're going to do in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community . ''
Stokes said it took `` just seconds '' for the rest of the team to follow her out the door , leaving contracts behind and an uncertain future loaded with questions but not regrets .
Teammate Sam Show , known for her familiar home run bat-flip at Oklahoma State , said she was worried if she had done the right thing after walking out on her first pro contract .
`` I do n't like crying in front of people but I did this week , '' she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Showing the softball world what you believe in and finding your happiness ( made it the correct decision ) . ''
Show and Stokes , along with the Pride 's Shay Knighten and A.J .
Andrews , took a knee during Saturday 's national anthem .
Both teams stood together , arm in arm , for a moment of silence following the game .
Stokes , the leadoff hitter in Saturday 's game , had been the first player drafted by the Dawgs after they became a franchise late in 2015 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week for me and my teammates , '' she said .
`` To see my teammates stepping up and speaking up for me was so powerful . ''
Former Florida star and Team USA catcher Aubree Munro said she 's been trying to educate herself on the latest racial uptick during the past four months .
`` Inside that locker room , just seeing the hurt on her face , on someone like Kiki , that was my moment of clarity , '' Munro said .
Fischer , wife of an Air Force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of players ' meetings on how to proceed , they finally met with Pride players Friday and told them about `` This Is Us . ''
Saturday 's game was soon announced , and donations through online ticket sales at http : //thisisussoftball.com/donate had brought in $ 36,454 as of late Saturday .
Their jerseys , originally to have been for batting practice , were donated by 5 Tool Sport out of Texas .
Other donations are likely to come .
Another game takes place Monday night in Viera , which could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ summer games that had been originally set for Conroe , Texas .
That announcement will be made soon on the Pride 's website .
In Saturday night 's game , former University of Florida slugger Amanda Lorenz , who earlier made an outstanding diving catch for the Pride in left field , slammed a long home run off Osterman in the sixth inning to cut the deficit to 2-1 and had a chance to tie it in the seventh before striking out to end the game .
The Pride committed an uncharacteristic six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Escobedo of Arizona State .
But she and Megan Good allowed just two hits .
`` It was a release , '' Escobedo said of finally playing again .
`` It was meant to be . ''
Soon , she and Fischer — her teammate on the Dawgs the past two years before being traded to the Pride — will be living on the same street in Phoenix , Arizona .
`` I 've got a batting cage set up , '' Escobedo said , laughing .
Fischer said the team 's walkout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of course .
But it did connect with Watley , the first Black female to play on the U.S. softball team in the Olympics .
She was quoted in a tweet , saying : “ We ’ re already getting paid pennies and now we ’ re going to get paid nothing to stand up for this .
That ’ s how much it matters.
” Veteran Monica Abbott , 34 , considered the sport 's top pitcher in the world , would likely stand the most to lose .
Abbott , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Japan , reportedly signed a six-year deal worth an estimated $ 1 million in 2016 , when the Scrap Yard Dawgs were starting to take shape .
In January of 2018 , apparent financial troubles beset the Dawgs , who were booted from the National Pro Fastpitch circuit after what was reported to be repeated violations of the team 's franchise agreement , including the team 's repeated failure to make timely payments to players , vendors and the league .
Even prior to the This Is Us movement , Stokes said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'm already seeing little black girls out there running around , '' she said .
`` When I was younger , I was told , 'You play a white sport . '
I did n't feel that way .
I 've always felt like , just because I 'm not white , I can still bring something back to the table . ''
`` We will make a change .
This is our story .
This is a new beginning . ''

Newly organized softball team spreads message of racial harmony, wins after Trump tweet backlash
VIERA, Florida — Wearing black socks, pants and jerseys with the words "THIS IS US" across their chests, a newly organized pro softball team delivered a message of unity off the field Saturday night and also scored a major victory on it in their historic opener.
Five days after disenfranchising themselves from the Texas-based Scrap Yard Dawgs following a since-deleted general manager's tweet regarding the national anthem and aimed at President Donald Trump, the 18 players, plus coaches, were back on the field doing what they do best.
Team USA pitchers Keilani Ricketts and Cat Osterman — part of 11 Olympic players traveling with the team this summer — combined for seven strikeouts in the 3-1 victory against the USSSA Pride, the reigning two-time National Pro Fastpitch champions.
"Just because something may seem negative, we showed you can always turn it into a positive," said first baseman Sam Fischer. "And not be afraid in doing so."
"This Is Us" began appearing on players' Twitter handles Thursday. The next day, the team released a black-and-white video, which was shown to fans at the USSSA Space Coast Complex in the top of the fifth inning as players stood along the first base line.
"While we were playing our first game of the season, a tweet was sent out on behalf of the organization that was insensitive, offensive and ignorant to the movement going on in this country," Fischer says in the video.
The players are emphasizing three points: "We are here to raise awareness. We are here to empower. We are here to unite."
The video had garnered more than 22,000 views as of Saturday morning, drawing comments such as: "We stand behind you all the way" and "So proud of you ladies! ... What a great example you have all shown to the softball community."
ESPN's Holly Rowe, a veteran sideline reporter during the NCAA softball postseason, also chimed in on Twitter: "I hope some big corporation gets behind this team and supports them. It takes courage to walk out on your job for what you believe. Go Ladies!!! I am donating immediately!!!!"
I hope some big corporation gets behind this team and supports them. It takes courage to walk out on your job for what you believe. Go Ladies!!! I am donating immediately!!!! ❤ https://t.co/BoDaovRv6G — Holly Rowe (@sportsiren) June 26, 2020
The new team's mission statement says it is "here to spark a necessary change in the softball community, gaining and sharing knowledge about racial injustice in our world."
Fischer said the capitalized names on the back of the players' jerseys are to acknowledge Black players, past and present, who have played and coached the game.
"I wore Natasha Watley's name because when I came up I started out as a shortstop and just idolized the way she played," Fischer said of the Olympian from UCLA.
Here's a look at the backs of some shirts in the This Is Us infield. pic.twitter.com/3v4iteQmqe — Kayla Lombardo (@KaylaLombardo11) June 27, 2020
Monday night, the Dawgs lost 4-0 to the Pride in what was the first professional team sports competition in the U.S. following the coronavirus pandemic shutdown of most athletics in March.
By the time the players gathered in the locker room, word got out that GM Connie May had put up a personal tweet on the team's official site, catching players off guard.
The confrontation between players and May lasted nearly an hour before Kiki Stokes, the only Black player on the roster, walked out first.
"I felt alone, isolated, very confused," the Nebraska star told many of the estimated 250 fans who stayed after Saturday's game for a panel discussion. "I represented the organization for five years. A team I trusted. But I was let down and felt betrayed.
"But the people (teammates) in that room moved mountains for me. I'm so grateful for this team and I'm excited to see what we're going to do in the future for the sport and for the community."
This Is Us Softball made history tonight. These athletes used their voice for the betterment of this world, and I have never been more proud to be a part of a team. This is a night I will never forget.
This Is Us. pic.twitter.com/2SzqG9DYc3 — Jade Hewitt (@JadeHewittMedia) June 28, 2020
Stokes said it took "just seconds" for the rest of the team to follow her out the door, leaving contracts behind and an uncertain future loaded with questions but not regrets.
Teammate Sam Show, known for her familiar home run bat-flip at Oklahoma State, said she was worried if she had done the right thing after walking out on her first pro contract.
"I don't like crying in front of people but I did this week," she said. "I knew it was right. Showing the softball world what you believe in and finding your happiness (made it the correct decision)."
Show and Stokes, along with the Pride's Shay Knighten and A.J. Andrews, took a knee during Saturday's national anthem. Both teams stood together, arm in arm, for a moment of silence following the game.
Stokes, the leadoff hitter in Saturday's game, had been the first player drafted by the Dawgs after they became a franchise late in 2015.
"It's been an emotional, overwhelming week for me and my teammates," she said. "To see my teammates stepping up and speaking up for me was so powerful."
Former Florida star and Team USA catcher Aubree Munro said she's been trying to educate herself on the latest racial uptick during the past four months.
"Inside that locker room, just seeing the hurt on her face, on someone like Kiki, that was my moment of clarity," Munro said.
Fischer, wife of an Air Force veteran, said after a few days of players' meetings on how to proceed, they finally met with Pride players Friday and told them about "This Is Us." Saturday's game was soon announced, and donations through online ticket sales at http://thisisussoftball.com/donate had brought in $36,454 as of late Saturday.
Their jerseys, originally to have been for batting practice, were donated by 5 Tool Sport out of Texas. Other donations are likely to come.
Another game takes place Monday night in Viera, which could be the site of many of the other summer games that had been originally set for Conroe, Texas. That announcement will be made soon on the Pride's website.
In Saturday night's game, former University of Florida slugger Amanda Lorenz, who earlier made an outstanding diving catch for the Pride in left field, slammed a long home run off Osterman in the sixth inning to cut the deficit to 2-1 and had a chance to tie it in the seventh before striking out to end the game.
The Pride committed an uncharacteristic six errors, two by starting pitcher Dallas Escobedo of Arizona State. But she and Megan Good allowed just two hits.
"It was a release," Escobedo said of finally playing again. "It was meant to be."
Soon, she and Fischer — her teammate on the Dawgs the past two years before being traded to the Pride — will be living on the same street in Phoenix, Arizona.
"I've got a batting cage set up," Escobedo said, laughing.
Fischer said the team's walkout won't sit well with everyone, of course. But it did connect with Watley, the first Black female to play on the U.S. softball team in the Olympics. She was quoted in a tweet, saying: “We’re already getting paid pennies and now we’re going to get paid nothing to stand up for this. That’s how much it matters.”
Veteran Monica Abbott, 34, considered the sport's top pitcher in the world, would likely stand the most to lose. Abbott, a Team USA Olympian who also plays professionally in Japan, reportedly signed a six-year deal worth an estimated $1 million in 2016, when the Scrap Yard Dawgs were starting to take shape.
In January of 2018, apparent financial troubles beset the Dawgs, who were booted from the National Pro Fastpitch circuit after what was reported to be repeated violations of the team's franchise agreement, including the team's repeated failure to make timely payments to players, vendors and the league.
Even prior to the This Is Us movement, Stokes said she already is seeing the positives.
"I'm already seeing little black girls out there running around," she said. "When I was younger, I was told, 'You play a white sport.' I didn't feel that way. I've always felt like, just because I'm not white, I can still bring something back to the table."
Her message is simple:
"We will make a change. This is our story. This is a new beginning."


usatoday--2020-06-27--The 5 best Amazon deals you can get this weekend

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
Ah , the weekend .
Quarantine or no , it 's still a great time to kick back , enjoy a cup of coffee , but most of all , just relax .
It can also be a fun time to shop for the best Amazon deals , since you have more time to read reviews , compare prices and hunt for the biggest bargains out there .
Need help finding products ?
: Sign up for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free and you can unsubscribe at any time .
Here at Reviewed , we specialize in testing products to discover what really makes them extraordinary .
Not only that , but we help you find the best prices on these picks , so you 're saving money and getting something great , too .
Here are the five best Amazon deals you can shop this weekend .
Many people love robot vacuums .
After all , these devices help keep your floors nice and tidy .
The one catch ?
You have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This small-but-irritating task can become a real chore over time .
However , the iRobot Roomba i7+ is here to help .
This innovative robot vacuum—which we crowned the best robot vacuum we 've ever tested—can actually empty its dirt bin all by itself and scored a perfect 10 in our labs when it came to suctioning power .
Another thing that 's great about the iRobot Roomba i7+ is that it comes with a host of smart features , so you can use it to create a virtual map of your home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It also offers Alexa and Google Home compatibility .
Normally priced at $ 999 , this robot vacuum drops to $ 699 , so you 'll be saving $ 300 , which is huge .
Get the iRobot Roomba i7+ ( 7550 ) for $ 699 ( Save $ 300 ) 2 .
Under $ 8 : This cult-favorite device for checking tire pressure Road trips can help you bust out of your quarantine doldrums and experience new sights , which is great .
That said , it 's more important than ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tire pressure , so you do n't end up with a flat at a bad time .
This top-rated AstroAl gauge is a must-have for your car 's emergency kit , as it enables you to check your tire pressure quickly with little effort .
With a near-perfect 4.5-star rating from more than 10,500 reviewers , as well as an Amazon Choice badge , it 's a standout for shoppers , who say its built-in blue LED light near the nozzle is especially helpful when you need to help check tire pressures at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snag this handy device for a little under $ 8 , so you 're saving roughly $ 3—not to mention hours of potential stress , too .
Get the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge for $ 7.78 ( Save $ 2.91 ) When it comes to smartphone chargers , Anker is one of the best brands out there .
From now through June 30 , you can save $ 11 on the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad when you use promo code ANKR2501 at checkout .
That means instead of paying $ 21.99 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boy for $ 10.99 , which is a small price to pay for so much convenience .
Compatible with most iPhone and Samsung models , this sleek pad has an almost 5-star rating on Amazon and charges through smartphone cases to provide ultra-fast battery power to devices .
It even comes with an LED indicator so you always know the charging status , which one reviewer pointed out makes it extremely handy to have around .
Get the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad for $ 10.99 ( Save $ 11 ) Restless nights can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning , and that 's especially true when you just ca n't seem to stop tossing and turning .
The best sound machines can help alleviate some of that frustration , creating an immersive sound experience that supports better rest and relaxation .
Right now , you can get our top pick , the Adaptive Sound Sound + Sleep , for about $ 10 off , so you 'll only pay about $ 60 instead of the usual $ 70-ish .
In our testing , we adored this compact device , which offers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of `` richness '' ( that means you 're actually getting a total of 30 sounds to choose from ) .
The result is a `` vibrant soundscape , '' which our testers say is less monotonous than what you 'd get from other sound machines .
Get the Sound+Sleep High Fidelity Sleep Sound Machine for $ 60.67 ( Save $ 10.54 ) 5 .
Under $ 30 : The best portable Bluetooth speakers we 've ever tried Planning a socially distant hang-out for 4th of July and want an easier way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't have to spend a fortune to get a good , reliable set of speakers .
Our testers named the Anker SoundCore the best cheap Bluetooth speaker out now because it boasts 24-hour battery power .
Plus , it 's water-resistant and has a number of solid features , like easy-to-press buttons .
While this is n't the lowest price we 've ever seen for it , you can save an extra $ 2 on the model in black when you clip the on-page coupon by checking the box beneath the price , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 25.99 instead of the usual $ 27.99 .
Get the Anker Soundcore Bluetooth Speaker in Black for $ 25.99 ( Save $ 2 ) The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

The 5 best Amazon deals you can get this weekend
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
Editor's Note: Prices may have changed since the weekend for these deals. For Monday's best deals on Amazon, check out our new story here.
Ah, the weekend. Quarantine or no, it's still a great time to kick back, enjoy a cup of coffee, but most of all, just relax. It can also be a fun time to shop for the best Amazon deals, since you have more time to read reviews, compare prices and hunt for the biggest bargains out there.
Need help finding products?: Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Here at Reviewed, we specialize in testing products to discover what really makes them extraordinary. Not only that, but we help you find the best prices on these picks, so you're saving money and getting something great, too. Here are the five best Amazon deals you can shop this weekend.
1. Under $8: This cult-favorite device for checking tire pressure
Road trips can help you bust out of your quarantine doldrums and experience new sights, which is great. That said, it's more important than ever that you keep an eye on your tire pressure, so you don't end up with a flat at a bad time. This top-rated AstroAl gauge is a must-have for your car's emergency kit, as it enables you to check your tire pressure quickly with little effort. With a near-perfect 4.5-star rating from more than 10,500 reviewers, as well as an Amazon Choice badge, it's a standout for shoppers, who say its built-in blue LED light near the nozzle is especially helpful when you need to help check tire pressures at night. Even better, you can snag this handy device for a little under $8, so you're saving roughly $3—not to mention hours of potential stress, too.
Get the AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge for $7.78 (Save $2.91)
2. Up to 40% off: Tommy Hilfiger fashions for men and women
When it comes to fashion, the '90s have been enjoying a resurgence for the last couple of seasons. One of the biggest brands of the day, Tommy Hilfiger, is riding the '90s nostalgia wave as well, with stars like Hailey Bieber being photographed in some of its most iconic tomboy-inspired looks. You can save up to 40% on select Tommy Hilfiger styles for men and women for the final day of the Amazon Big Style, including a classic Tommy Hilfiger men's logo Dad baseball cap (originally $19.99, now $14.24), the sporty-yet-comfy men's core flag V-Neck tee (originally $11.97, now from $9.56), this Luke fanny pack (originally $37.22, now $29.78) and more.
Save up to 40% on select styles from Tommy Hilfiger
3. Save $300: Our all-time favorite robot vacuum
Many people love robot vacuums. After all, these devices help keep your floors nice and tidy. The one catch? You have to empty out their dirt bins constantly. This small-but-irritating task can become a real chore over time. However, the iRobot Roomba i7+ is here to help. This innovative robot vacuum—which we crowned the best robot vacuum we've ever tested—can actually empty its dirt bin all by itself and scored a perfect 10 in our labs when it came to suctioning power. Another thing that's great about the iRobot Roomba i7+ is that it comes with a host of smart features, so you can use it to create a virtual map of your home and target certain areas to clean. It also offers Alexa and Google Home compatibility. Normally priced at $999, this robot vacuum drops to $689.99, so you'll be saving $310, which is huge.
Get the iRobot Roomba i7+ (7550) for $689.99 (Save $310)
4. Under $30: This streaming stick that comes with something extra
The Amazon Fire TV stick 4K with Alexa voice remote is one of the best streaming devices we've ever tested. Personally, this is the one I use at home and it's remarkably easy to set up and navigate to all my preferred channels, from Netflix to Prime Video and more. It supports 4K (meaning HDR10 and Dolby Vision) and it ships with a remote control that allows you to do voice search and control all of your Alexa-compatible devices. Our tester's main complaint with the Fire Stick is that Amazon still uses it to highlight its top shows and rentals first above other services, but I personally have never found that to be a problem (perhaps because I use Prime Video all the time). Either way, this deal is solid, because instead of paying $39.99, you'll save $10 and get it for $29.99.
Get the Amazon Fire TV Stick for $29.99 (Save $10)
5. $11 off: This easy-to-use charging pad
When it comes to smartphone chargers, Anker is one of the best brands out there. From now through June 30, you can save $11 on the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad when you use promo code ANKR2501 at checkout. That means instead of paying $21.99, you'll actually be getting this bad boy for $10.99, which is a small price to pay for so much convenience. Compatible with most iPhone and Samsung models, this sleek pad has an almost 5-star rating on Amazon and charges through smartphone cases to provide ultra-fast battery power to devices. It even comes with an LED indicator so you always know the charging status, which one reviewer pointed out makes it extremely handy to have around.
Get the Anker PowerWave 7.5 Pad for $10.99 (Save $11)
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


usatoday--2020-06-28--Dwayne Johnson, Jennifer Hudson, Miley Cyrus team up for 'Global Goal: Unite for Our Future' concert

`` The year 2020 has come to be a defining period that has impacted all of us around the world in ways we could have never imagined , '' host Dwayne Johnson said , explaining the two forces that inspired Saturday 's `` Global Goal : Unite for Our Future – The Concert '' : coronavirus and systemic racism .
`` As we 're doing our very best to process the unprecedented hardships this new virus can cause , we also continue to witness another ongoing disease that plagues our world for decades – centuries even : oppression and inequality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Floyd 's death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer a `` flashpoint . ''
He continued , `` In the face of both of these ongoing fights , we must recognize that the people living in poverty are the ones whose health is at greatest risk .
It 's no surprise that they 're also the ones who suffer most when economies fail .
Our Black Americans and people of color all around the world have been hit the hardest during these unprecedented times .
Access to help is a fundamental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not allow it to be dictated by income or race .
Equality is a fundamental right that we can not allow to be dictated by income or race .
The future depends on what we do today .
And today , we unite for our future . ''
Like other benefit shows conducted during the coronavirus pandemic , such as March 's `` Living Room Concert , '' the `` Unite for Our Future '' concert took place remotely , with the participants beaming in from all over the country and world .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : As Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau put it , `` To keep our citizens safe and restart our economies , we have to beat this disease everywhere . ''
The opening performer , Jennifer Hudson , sang `` Where Peaceful Waters Flow '' from the deck of a boat floating down the Chicago River , while the For Love Choir performed an a capella rendition of Beyoncé 's `` Freedom '' from a hilltop in Santa Clarita County , California .
`` The power of women creates change .
So let 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – good change , '' the Oscar winner said before launching into her stirring cover of the Gladys Knight and the Pips classic .
Other performers for the two-hour NBC broadcast include Shakira , Coldplay , Justin Bieber and Quavo , Miley Cyrus , J Balvin , Yemi Alade and Christine and the Queens .
Miley Cyrus , performing a countryfied version of The Beatles ' `` Help ! ''
from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena , California , dedicated her set to `` those who are tirelessly working on testing , treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come together in places like this empty stadium again . ''
Coldplay contributed a brightly hued video of their song `` Paradise , '' prefaced by a quote from Nelson Mandela : `` May your choices reflect your hopes , not your fears . ''
Gospel icon Kirk Franklin joined with Tori Kelly and Christian music duo For King and Country to perform `` Together , '' interspersed with photos and footage of last month 's protests .
The original Broadway cast of `` Hamilton , '' whose final performances will be seen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their virtual `` Tonight Show '' performance of the Schuyler Sisters-led `` Helpless '' with the help of star/creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and the `` Tonight Show '' house band The Roots and Tony winner Daveed Diggs .
`` Hamilton '' was n't the only reunion : Hugh Jackman reunited the original stars of the `` X-Men '' franchise after 20 years .
Now , you might be thinking , where there is Jackman , there is likely to be sabotage by Ryan Reynolds .
And you 'd be right .
The `` Deadpool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` X-Men '' franchise like James McAvoy and Sophie Turner , who apologized , thinking she 'd logged into a `` Game of Thrones '' reunion . ''
In a failed effort to keep her interested , Reynolds interjected : `` You know , Tyrion Lannister was in an ' X-Men ' film . ''
They dedicated the video to the `` true superheroes fighting for a safer , healthier , more equitable world . ''
Billy Porter , who won a Tony for playing a drag queen in `` Kinky Boots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LGBTQ period drama `` Pose , '' talked about knowing `` what it 's like to be on the outside looking in .
As if I 'm only allowed to exist on the fringes of society .
Yeah , I remember those times .
But I do n't live like that anymore .
I refuse to .
From Miss Rosa Parks to Malcolm to Martin , as well as transgender activist Marsha P. Johnson , who boldly stood on the front lines at Stonewall in 1969 , I 'll forever be grateful to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where we are today .
And it 's up to us to keep on fighting . ''
He continued , `` And now , during the summer of 2020 , young activists have flooded the streets around the globe to continue fighting for justice for Black people , for the LBGTQIA community .
The world is changing right before our eyes and it 's a beautiful thing to see . ''
Supermodel-turned-actress Naomi Campbell discussed how `` COVID-19 has laid bare the inequities of our broken social systems in our communities – especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ color . ''
She added : `` We are in this for the long haul and getting to the other side will require an ongoing and collective effort .
There are no quick fixes .
But if everyone of us steps up to help our brothers and sisters , we will all be the better for it . ''
Politicians were well-represented .
In addition to Trudeau , French President Emmanuel Macron , German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson all spoke about their efforts to stop the virus and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and when an effective vaccine is found – wherever it 's found , whoever finds it – then we , as global leaders have a moral duty to ensure that it is truly available to all , '' said Johnson , who himself battled a severe case of COVID-19 .
`` Because this pandemic threatens every one of us . ''
`` Westworld '' star Thandie Newton narrated a documentary segment on the search for a COVID-19 vaccine – and the eventual challenges of distributing it to 190 countries worldwide .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at risk like healthcare workers or people with existing health conditions , '' Newton said .
`` Or those in refugee camps around the world where more than 70 million displaced people do n't have the option to socially distance . ''
In a documentary segment titled `` How We 've Won Before , '' Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates discussed how the world came together to eradicate polio .
`` That 's what we want to see here with COVID : the world working together , helping each other , getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
Johnson returned near the end , noting , `` With all of our backs up against the wall , an extraordinary silver lining has emerged : world unity .
Unity formed in the face of a global health pandemic .
Unity born in the face of racial injustice .
The events of 2020 have shed a light on a path moving forward , exposing the incredible compassion and empathy that we 're capable of achieving when we stand united , active in the mission to normalize equality . ''

Dwayne Johnson, Jennifer Hudson, Miley Cyrus team up for 'Global Goal: Unite for Our Future' concert
Show Caption Hide Caption Keith Urban plays drive-in concert for medical workers Country star Keith Urban played a concert for medical workers at a drive-in movie theater in Tennessee. (May 15) AP
Two defining forces inspired Saturday's "Global Goal: Unite for Our Future – The Concert": coronavirus and systemic racism.
"The year 2020 has come to be a defining period that has impacted all of us around the world in ways we could have never imagined," said Dwayne Johnson, the event's host. "As we're doing our very best to process the unprecedented hardships this new virus can cause, we also continue to witness another ongoing disease that plagues our world for decades – centuries even: oppression and inequality."
He called George Floyd's death in police custody a "flashpoint."
"In the face of both of these ongoing fights, we must recognize that the people living in poverty are the ones whose health is at greatest risk. It's no surprise that they're also the ones who suffer most when economies fail. Our Black Americans and people of color all around the world have been hit the hardest during these unprecedented times," he said. Access and equality are fundamental rights that "we cannot allow to be dictated by income or race. The future depends on what we do today. And today, we unite for our future."
Hugh Evans, CEO of Global Citizen, announced after the summit and concert that $6.9 billion in cash and loans had been pledged in support of those whose lives have been upended by the coronavirus crisis.
He called it “an incredible next step on our journey out of the COVID-19 era," but reminded "there is more still to be done, as no one is safe until everyone is safe."
Like other benefit shows conducted during the coronavirus pandemic, such as March's "Living Room Concert," the "Unite for Our Future" concert took place remotely, with the participants beaming in from all over the country and world.
One message was constant throughout the broadcast: As Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau put it, "To keep our citizens safe and restart our economies, we have to beat this disease everywhere."
The performances: Jennifer Hudson, Miley Cyrus, Coldplay
The opening performer, Hudson, sang "Where Peaceful Waters Flow" from the deck of a boat floating down the Chicago River, while the For Love Choir performed an a capella rendition of Beyoncé's "Freedom" from a hilltop in Santa Clarita County, California.
"The power of women creates change. So let's keep coming together to create that change – good change," Hudson said before launching into her stirring cover of the Gladys Knight and the Pips classic.
Other performers for the two-hour NBC broadcast include Shakira, Coldplay, Justin Bieber and Quavo, Miley Cyrus, J Balvin, Yemi Alade and Christine and the Queens.
Cyrus, performing a countrified version of The Beatles' "Help!" from the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, dedicated her set to "those who are tirelessly working on testing, treatment and vaccines so all of us can come together in places like this empty stadium again."
Coldplay contributed a brightly hued video of their song "Paradise," prefaced by a quote from Nelson Mandela: "May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears."
Gospel icon Kirk Franklin joined with Tori Kelly and Christian music duo For King and Country to perform "Together," interspersed with photos and footage of last month's protests.
The reunions: 'Hamilton,' 'X-Men'
The original Broadway cast of "Hamilton," whose final performances will be seen Friday as a Disney+ film, contributed their virtual "Tonight Show" performance of the Schuyler Sisters-led "Helpless" with the help of star/creator Lin-Manuel Miranda and the "Tonight Show" house band The Roots and Tony winner Daveed Diggs.
"Hamilton" wasn't the only reunion: Hugh Jackman reunited the original stars of the "X-Men" franchise after 20 years.
Now, you might be thinking, where there is Jackman, there is likely to be sabotage by Ryan Reynolds. And you'd be right. The "Deadpool" star looped in younger members of the "X-Men" franchise like James McAvoy and Sophie Turner, who apologized, thinking she'd logged into a "Game of Thrones" reunion."
In a failed effort to keep her interested, Reynolds interjected: "You know, Tyrion Lannister was in an 'X-Men' film."
They dedicated the video to the "true superheroes fighting for a safer, healthier, more equitable world."
The speakers: Billy Porter, Naomi Campbell
Billy Porter, who won a Tony for playing a drag queen in "Kinky Boots" and an Emmy for FX's LGBTQ period drama "Pose," talked about knowing "what it's like to be on the outside looking in. As if I'm only allowed to exist on the fringes of society. Yeah, I remember those times. But I don't live like that anymore. I refuse to. From Miss Rosa Parks to Malcolm to Martin, as well as transgender activist Marsha P. Johnson, who boldly stood on the front lines at Stonewall in 1969, I'll forever be grateful to those who fought for us to be where we are today. And it's up to us to keep on fighting."
He added, "Young activists have flooded the streets around the globe to continue fighting for justice for Black people, for the LBGTQIA community. The world is changing right before our eyes and it's a beautiful thing to see."
Supermodel-turned-actress Naomi Campbell discussed how "COVID-19 has laid bare the inequities of our broken social systems in our communities – especially the Black community and our communities of color." She noted: "We are in this for the long haul and getting to the other side will require an ongoing and collective effort. There are no quick fixes. But if every one of us steps up to help our brothers and sisters, we will all be the better for it."
Politicians were well-represented. In addition to Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson all spoke about their efforts to stop the virus and help protect vulnerable populations.
"If and when an effective vaccine is found – wherever it's found, whoever finds it – then we, as global leaders have a moral duty to ensure that it is truly available to all," said Johnson, who himself battled a severe case of COVID-19. "Because this pandemic threatens every one of us."
"Westworld" star Thandie Newton narrated a documentary segment on the search for a COVID-19 vaccine – and the eventual challenges of distributing it to 190 countries worldwide.
"We must protect the groups that are most at risk like health care workers or people with existing health conditions," Newton said. "Or those in refugee camps around the world where more than 70 million displaced people don't have the option to socially distance."
In a documentary segment titled "How We've Won Before," Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates discussed how the world came together to eradicate polio.
"That's what we want to see here with COVID: the world working together, helping each other, getting to the end of this disease," he said.
Johnson returned near the end, noting, "With all of our backs up against the wall, an extraordinary silver lining has emerged: world unity. Unity formed in the face of a global health pandemic. Unity born in the face of racial injustice. The events of 2020 have shed a light on a path moving forward, exposing the incredible compassion and empathy that we're capable of achieving when we stand united, active in the mission to normalize equality."
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-06-28--These three teenagers reflect on growing up Black in Tamir Rice's America

The podcast is brief and informative .
I appreciate that but sorry I do not like Claire Thornton ’ s @ @ @ @ @ a 10yr old reading .
Regardless of the topic , her segments are the worst @ @ @ @ @ I am so sorry .

Dozens are dead and major landmarks have been lost amid wildfires on Maui and elsewhere.
The FBI shoots and kills a man during an arrest for threats against President Joe Biden.
USA TODAY Health Reporter Karen Weintraub looks at rising COVID-19 rates, and whether we should be worried.
Donald Trump's Twitter account info turned over to Special Counsel as part of search warrant.
USA TODAY Education Reporter Alia Wong looks at how some states consider address sharing for school placement a crime.
Episode Transcript available here
Also available at art19.com/shows/5-Things
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.


usatoday--2020-06-29--Cam Newton agrees to one-year deal with New England Patriots, per reports

At long last , Cam Newton ’ s wait has ended , and the 2015 MVP now has a chance to revive his career with one of the most storied franchises in NFL history .
Newton on Sunday evening agreed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots , according to multiple reports .
The first overall pick of the 2011 draft , Newton became a free agent after the rebuilding Carolina Panthers released him with one year left on his contract on March 24 .
Despite his impressive body of work , Newton remained unsigned for three months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A surgically repaired throwing shoulder and a Lisfranc fracture in his left foot limited Newton to just two games in 2019 .
Based on the many workout videos he has posted on his social media platforms this offseason , Newton appears to have recovered .
But because of the coronavirus restrictions that forced the closing of NFL facilities , teams were unable to host the quarterback and have him take a physical to confirm that his shoulder and foot were indeed structurally sound .
However , with a month left before players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , New England and Newton ’ s camp reached an agreement on what represents a new chapter for player and franchise .
NFL NEWSLETTER : Sign up now to get football news delivered to your inbox New England had yet to find a proven replacement for Tom Brady , who left for Tampa Bay via free agency this spring .
Coach Bill Belichick had expressed confidence in quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer , however Stidham remains unproven entering his second NFL season , and Hoyer is a journeyman .
The 6-foot-5 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May , will compete for the starting job .
If he is indeed back to full strength , his chances of winning the starting job appear strong .
Newton has boasted great arm strength and athleticism during his career .
New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is regarded as one of the brightest play-callers in the game and has displayed great creativity and versatility in his schemes .
He has proven himself capable of capitalizing on the strengths of his quarterbacks , whether it was Brady , fill-in Patriots starters like Jacoby Brissett @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tebow during McDaniels ’ brief stint as Denver Broncos head coach .
A healthy Newton would rank among the most physically gifted quarterbacks that McDaniels has worked with .
His potential ascension to the starting role would bode well for the Patriots , who aim to remain atop the AFC East despite improvement by the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins last season and this offseason .
If you love talking football , we have the perfect spot for you .
Join our Facebook Group , The Ruling Off the Field , to engage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football fans and our NFL insiders .
Do the right thing , sign up now !

Cam Newton agrees to one-year deal with New England Patriots, per reports
Show Caption Hide Caption NFLPA not happy with Tom Brady's unsolicited practices: 'Not in the best interest of player safety' SportsPulse: Mackenzie Salmon connected with NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith to get the union's response on Tom Brady and Russell Wilson's impromptu practices with teammates. An act they strongly discouraged prior to Training Camp. USA TODAY
At long last, Cam Newton’s wait has ended, and the 2015 MVP now has a chance to revive his career with one of the most storied franchises in NFL history.
Newton on Sunday evening agreed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots, according to multiple reports.
The first overall pick of the 2011 draft, Newton became a free agent after the rebuilding Carolina Panthers released him with one year left on his contract on March 24.
Despite his impressive body of work, Newton remained unsigned for three months thanks largely to uncertainty over his health.
A surgically repaired throwing shoulder and a Lisfranc fracture in his left foot limited Newton to just two games in 2019. Based on the many workout videos he has posted on his social media platforms this offseason, Newton appears to have recovered. But because of the coronavirus restrictions that forced the closing of NFL facilities, teams were unable to host the quarterback and have him take a physical to confirm that his shoulder and foot were indeed structurally sound.
However, with a month left before players are expected to report for training camps, New England and Newton’s camp reached an agreement on what represents a new chapter for player and franchise.
REACTION: Sports world reacts to Cam Newton-to-Patriots news
FACING BIG 2020 SEASON: 20 recent NFL first-round picks on the hot seat
NFL NEWSLETTER: Sign up now to get football news delivered to your inbox
New England had yet to find a proven replacement for Tom Brady, who left for Tampa Bay via free agency this spring. Coach Bill Belichick had expressed confidence in quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer, however Stidham remains unproven entering his second NFL season, and Hoyer is a journeyman.
The 6-foot-5, 245-pound Newton, who turned 31 in May, will compete for the starting job.
If he is indeed back to full strength, his chances of winning the starting job appear strong. Newton has boasted great arm strength and athleticism during his career. New England offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is regarded as one of the brightest play-callers in the game and has displayed great creativity and versatility in his schemes. He has proven himself capable of capitalizing on the strengths of his quarterbacks, whether it was Brady, fill-in Patriots starters like Jacoby Brissett or Jimmy Garoppolo, or even Tim Tebow during McDaniels’ brief stint as Denver Broncos head coach.
A healthy Newton would rank among the most physically gifted quarterbacks that McDaniels has worked with. His potential ascension to the starting role would bode well for the Patriots, who aim to remain atop the AFC East despite improvement by the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins last season and this offseason.
Follow USA TODAY Sports' Mike Jones on Twitter @ByMikeJones.
If you love talking football, we have the perfect spot for you. Join our Facebook Group, The Ruling Off the Field, to engage in friendly debate and conversation with fellow football fans and our NFL insiders. Do the right thing, sign up now!


usatoday--2020-06-29--New England Patriots lose NFL draft pick as part of penalty for filming Cincinnati Bengals' sideline

The New England Patriots have been stripped of a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL draft as part of the organization 's penalty for filming the Cincinnati Bengals ' sideline during a game last December , NFL spokesman Michael Signora confirmed Sunday .
The Patriots also were issued $ 1.1 million in team fines and have had their television production crews barred from shooting any games this season .
ESPN was first to report the NFL 's penalty .
In a statement last year , the team said an independent production crew hired to record footage on an advance scout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' series `` unknowingly violated a league policy by filming the field and sideline from the press box '' during a Dec. 8 game between the Bengals and Cleveland Browns .
The Patriots visited the Bengals the following week and won , 34-13 .
Coach Bill Belichick maintained the video crew was not part of New England 's football operation .
`` Yeah I heard about this , '' Belichick told WEEI in December .
`` You know , evidently this is our production people on the TV show that were there .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ they produce .
...
I 've never even seen their tapes .
This is something we had 100 % nothing to do with . ''
The Patriots were also penalized in 2007 for illegally filming the play signals coming from opposing team benches .
Belichick was fined $ 500,000 while the organization was docked $ 250,000 as well as a first-round draft pick .
If you love talking football , we have the perfect spot for you .
Join our Facebook Group , The Ruling Off the Field , to engage in friendly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and our NFL insiders .
Do the right thing , sign up now !

New England Patriots lose NFL draft pick as part of penalty for filming Cincinnati Bengals' sideline
Show Caption Hide Caption Why Cam Newton and the Patriots are a perfect fit SportsPulse: Mike Jones breaks down the Patriots signing of Cam Newton. While it took awhile to transpire, the pairing could wind up being a perfect fit. USA TODAY
The New England Patriots have been stripped of a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL draft as part of the organization's penalty for filming the Cincinnati Bengals' sideline during a game last December, NFL spokesman Michael Signora confirmed Sunday.
The Patriots also were issued $1.1 million in team fines and have had their television production crews barred from shooting any games this season.
ESPN was first to report the NFL's penalty.
In a statement last year, the team said an independent production crew hired to record footage on an advance scout for its online "Do Your Job" series "unknowingly violated a league policy by filming the field and sideline from the press box" during a Dec. 8 game between the Bengals and Cleveland Browns. The Patriots visited the Bengals the following week and won, 34-13.
Coach Bill Belichick maintained the video crew was not part of New England's football operation.
"Yeah I heard about this," Belichick told WEEI in December. "You know, evidently this is our production people on the TV show that were there. We have nothing to do with anything they produce. ... I've never even seen their tapes. This is something we had 100% nothing to do with."
The Patriots were also penalized in 2007 for illegally filming the play signals coming from opposing team benches. Belichick was fined $500,000 while the organization was docked $250,000 as well as a first-round draft pick.
If you love talking football, we have the perfect spot for you. Join our Facebook Group, The Ruling Off the Field, to engage in friendly debate and conversation with fellow football fans and our NFL insiders. Do the right thing, sign up now!


usatoday--2020-06-28--What we know about Saturday's fatal shooting at the downtown Louisville protest

After a month of mostly peaceful protests over the police shooting of Breonna Taylor , Saturday night was marred by chaos .
A man was killed in a shooting at Louisville 's Jefferson Square Park , which has been the site of ongoing demonstrations against racism and police brutality over the course of the past month .
Another person , the accused shooter , was hospitalized after also having been shot .
The suspect is in police custody at University of Louisville Hospital , Louisville Metro Police officials confirmed Sunday afternoon .
He has not yet been publicly identified by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the tents were being torn down and people would no longer be able to stay overnight in the park , though protesters vowed to return .
Several questions remained unanswered , but here 's a quick look at what happened , what we know and what we do n't know .
More : Louisville shooting : At least one person killed in Jefferson Square Park where Black Lives Matter protests held The shooting took place at 9 p.m. following a peaceful morning and afternoon at the park , which at one point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a counterprotest led by an armed `` patriot militia . ''
A video of the incident from Saturday night posted on Facebook appears to show a man standing on the sidewalk firing several shots toward tents in the park .
LMPD showed more footage on Sunday of a man firing into the air and then toward people after a confrontation at the park .
Jefferson County Sheriff ’ s Department personnel performed life-saving measures on a man who had been shot at the scene but were unable to save him .
He died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Metro Police spokesman Lamont Washington .
Another individual who had been shot was later found at the Hall of Justice , Washington said .
That person was taken to nearby University of Louisville Hospital and is expected to survive .
Who are the victims ?
The victim killed was a 27-year-old Louisville man who had become a vocal supporter of ongoing protests against racism and police brutality .
Tyler Gerth died Saturday at the downtown Louisville park , the Jefferson County Coroner 's Office confirmed Sunday .
A gunshot wound was cited as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ photographer , he was a graduate of Trinity High School and a graduate of the University of Kentucky .
Gerth 's godfather is Joe Gerth , a Louisville Courier Journal columnist , and served as godfather to the Louisville writer 's daughter .
The other individual taken to the hospital was the accused shooter , LMPD Chief Robert Schroeder told reporters Sunday afternoon .
The accused shooter is at University of Louisville Hospital in police custody , Schroeder told media members on Sunday .
Schroeder did not name the suspect but said discussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's office as to what charges could be appropriate .
Louisville Metro Corrections ' booking log Sunday morning did not appear to show anyone in custody with charges related to a shooting Sunday afternoon .
The fallout at Jefferson Square Park was swift .
Police locked down the scene , sending in a unit wearing riot gear at around 10 p.m. Officers and remaining protesters got into a few small confrontations in the hours after as the investigation continued , but tear gas was not deployed and force was not used to clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopened around 8 a.m. Sunday , with tents and other belongings cleared .
Protesters had set up a tent city at the park in the past month — tents and other items that were taken by Metro Public Works officials in the hours after the shooting can be picked up Sunday at 600 Meriwether Avenue , Washington wrote .
Tents will no longer be allowed at Jefferson Square Park , Washington added , and protesters will no longer be allowed to stay at the park overnight .
Speakers at the Kentucky Alliance press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ away several items that belonged to protesters .
`` I think it is very disrespectful , '' Shameka Parrish-Wright said at a Kentucky Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression press conference Sunday morning .
`` I think that LMPD has been in contact with us , sending people through the park all the time we ’ ve been there , but they could not communicate effectively enough so that we could make sure people ’ s belongings got to them .
When people tried to get their belongings last night they told them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder investigation and that they couldn ’ t get those things . ''
Schroeder , in his afternoon press briefing , acknowledged that some property at the park was handled in a way that fell below the department 's standards .
The morning after the shooting , demonstrators promised to return .
`` The community that was built there is not ending because they decided to throw us out , '' Parrish-Wright said .
`` We will be back .
We ’ re going to come back stronger , and we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Why were protesters in downtown Louisville ?
Protesters have been at Jefferson Square Park each day for the past month to continue to call for action against the police involved in the killing of Taylor , who was shot in March by LMPD officers executing a no-knock warrant at her apartment .
The protests in Louisville began on May 28 and have continued since then , as the case has attracted international attention and led to protests in other cities around the nation as well .
Located in the heart of downtown Louisville @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Metro Corrections , the Louis D. Brandeis Hall of Justice and several other notable city buildings .
Lucas Aulbach can be reached at laulbach @ courier-journal.com , 502-582-4649 or on Twitter @ LucasAulbach .
Support strong local journalism and subscribe : www.courier-journal.com/lucasa .

Lucas Aulbach, Louisville Courier Journal

What we know about Saturday's fatal shooting at the downtown Louisville protest
Show Caption Hide Caption Video appears to show gunman opening fire at Louisville park protest Dramatic video appears to show the gunman shooting near peaceful protesters who gathered in the park. Storyful, Wochit
After a month of mostly peaceful protests over the police shooting of Breonna Taylor, Saturday night was marred by chaos.
A man was killed in a shooting at Louisville's Jefferson Square Park, which has been the site of ongoing demonstrations against racism and police brutality over the course of the past month. Another person, the accused shooter, was hospitalized after also having been shot.
The suspect is in police custody at University of Louisville Hospital, Louisville Metro Police officials confirmed Sunday afternoon. He has not yet been publicly identified by city officials.
Police announced early Sunday that the tents were being torn down and people would no longer be able to stay overnight in the park, though protesters vowed to return.
Several questions remained unanswered, but here's a quick look at what happened, what we know and what we don't know.
More: Louisville shooting: At least one person killed in Jefferson Square Park where Black Lives Matter protests held
What happened Saturday night at Jefferson Square Park?
The shooting took place at 9 p.m. following a peaceful morning and afternoon at the park, which at one point was expected to be the site of a counterprotest led by an armed "patriot militia."
A video of the incident from Saturday night posted on Facebook appears to show a man standing on the sidewalk firing several shots toward tents in the park. LMPD showed more footage on Sunday of a man firing into the air and then toward people after a confrontation at the park.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department personnel performed life-saving measures on a man who had been shot at the scene but were unable to save him. He died at the scene, according to Louisville Metro Police spokesman Lamont Washington. Another individual who had been shot was later found at the Hall of Justice, Washington said. That person was taken to nearby University of Louisville Hospital and is expected to survive.
Who are the victims?
The victim killed was a 27-year-old Louisville man who had become a vocal supporter of ongoing protests against racism and police brutality.
Tyler Gerth died Saturday at the downtown Louisville park, the Jefferson County Coroner's Office confirmed Sunday. A gunshot wound was cited as the cause of death.
A budding photographer, he was a graduate of Trinity High School and a graduate of the University of Kentucky.
Gerth's godfather is Joe Gerth, a Louisville Courier Journal columnist, and served as godfather to the Louisville writer's daughter.
The other individual taken to the hospital was the accused shooter, LMPD Chief Robert Schroeder told reporters Sunday afternoon.
Was anyone arrested?
The accused shooter is at University of Louisville Hospital in police custody, Schroeder told media members on Sunday.
Schroeder did not name the suspect but said discussions are taking place with the commonwealth attorney's office as to what charges could be appropriate.
Louisville Metro Corrections' booking log Sunday morning did not appear to show anyone in custody with charges related to a shooting Sunday afternoon.
More: Louisville police clear tent city at Jefferson Square Park following fatal shooting
What happened afterward at Jefferson Square Park?
The fallout at Jefferson Square Park was swift.
Police locked down the scene, sending in a unit wearing riot gear at around 10 p.m. Officers and remaining protesters got into a few small confrontations in the hours after as the investigation continued, but tear gas was not deployed and force was not used to clear the scene.
Jefferson Square Park was reopened around 8 a.m. Sunday, with tents and other belongings cleared. Protesters had set up a tent city at the park in the past month — tents and other items that were taken by Metro Public Works officials in the hours after the shooting can be picked up Sunday at 600 Meriwether Avenue, Washington wrote.
Tents will no longer be allowed at Jefferson Square Park, Washington added, and protesters will no longer be allowed to stay at the park overnight.
Speakers at the Kentucky Alliance press conference Sunday morning said police had thrown away several items that belonged to protesters.
"I think it is very disrespectful," Shameka Parrish-Wright said at a Kentucky Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression press conference Sunday morning. "I think that LMPD has been in contact with us, sending people through the park all the time we’ve been there, but they could not communicate effectively enough so that we could make sure people’s belongings got to them. When people tried to get their belongings last night they told them that it was a part of a murder investigation and that they couldn’t get those things."
Schroeder, in his afternoon press briefing, acknowledged that some property at the park was handled in a way that fell below the department's standards.
The morning after the shooting, demonstrators promised to return.
"The community that was built there is not ending because they decided to throw us out," Parrish-Wright said. "We will be back. We’re going to come back stronger, and we’re not going to give up."
Why were protesters in downtown Louisville?
Protesters have been at Jefferson Square Park each day for the past month to continue to call for action against the police involved in the killing of Taylor, who was shot in March by LMPD officers executing a no-knock warrant at her apartment.
The protests in Louisville began on May 28 and have continued since then, as the case has attracted international attention and led to protests in other cities around the nation as well.
Located in the heart of downtown Louisville, Jefferson Square Park neighbors City Hall, Metro Corrections, the Louis D. Brandeis Hall of Justice and several other notable city buildings.
Lucas Aulbach can be reached at laulbach@courier-journal.com, 502-582-4649 or on Twitter @LucasAulbach. Support strong local journalism and subscribe: www.courier-journal.com/lucasa.


usatoday--2020-06-28--Anthony Mackie says Marvel Cinematic Universe – and Hollywood – need to improve on diversity

Anthony Mackie , who has played the superhero Falcon seven times , says the Marvel Cinematic Universe needs to improve on diversity behind and in front of the camera .
Mackie , 41 , spoke about his Marvel experiences going back to 2014 's `` Captain America : The Winter Soldier '' with Daveed Diggs , the star of TNT 's `` Snowpiercer '' for Variety 's Actors on Actors issue .
When asked by Diggs how he was interacting with Black Lives Matter , Mackie pointed out that he will be the lead Marvel actor for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Falcon and the Winter Soldier , '' due in August , just as Diggs is the lead of `` Snowpiercer . ''
`` We have the power and the ability to ask those questions .
It really bothered me that I ’ ve done seven Marvel movies now where every producer , every director , every stunt person , every costume designer , every PA , every single person has been white , '' said Mackie .
He decried that there was one Black producer , Nate Moore .
`` He produced 'Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` But then when you do 'Black Panther , ' you have a Black director , Black producer , a Black costume designer , a Black stunt choreographer .
And I ’ m like , that ’ s more racist than anything else .
Because if you only can hire the Black people for the Black movie , are you saying they ’ re not good enough when you have a mostly white cast ? ''
Mackie called for hiring changes going forward , something he and Diggs can push for more forcefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ push with Marvel , with everybody , is hire the best person for the job , '' Mackie said .
`` Even if it means we ’ re going to get the best two women , we ’ re going to get the best two men .
Fine .
I ’ m cool with those numbers for the next 10 years .
Because it starts to build a new generation of people who can put something on their résumé to get them other jobs .
If we ’ ve got to divvy out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And that ’ s something , as leading men , that we can go in and push for and push the envelope . ''
Mackie was realistic about his `` celebrity voice '' in a time of social activism .
`` My celebrity voice is definitely not worth more than the regular guy 's voice out there fighting for equality for our people , '' said Mackie .
`` I do n't want to stand on a podium giving some ( expletive ) speech about me being in 'The Avengers , ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help ! '
That 's just stupid . ''

Anthony Mackie says Marvel Cinematic Universe – and Hollywood – need to improve on diversity
Anthony Mackie, who has played the superhero Falcon seven times, says the Marvel Cinematic Universe needs to improve on diversity behind and in front of the camera.
Mackie, 41, spoke about his Marvel experiences going back to 2014's "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" with Daveed Diggs, the star of TNT's "Snowpiercer" for Variety's Actors on Actors issue.
When asked by Diggs how he was interacting with Black Lives Matter, Mackie pointed out that he will be the lead Marvel actor for the first time in the Disney+ TV series "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier," due in August, just as Diggs is the lead of "Snowpiercer."
"We have the power and the ability to ask those questions. It really bothered me that I’ve done seven Marvel movies now where every producer, every director, every stunt person, every costume designer, every PA, every single person has been white," said Mackie.
He decried that there was one Black producer, Nate Moore.
"He produced 'Black Panther,'" said Mackie. "But then when you do 'Black Panther,' you have a Black director, Black producer, a Black costume designer, a Black stunt choreographer. And I’m like, that’s more racist than anything else. Because if you only can hire the Black people for the Black movie, are you saying they’re not good enough when you have a mostly white cast?"
Mackie called for hiring changes going forward, something he and Diggs can push for more forcefully as leading men.
"My big push with Marvel, with everybody, is hire the best person for the job," Mackie said. "Even if it means we’re going to get the best two women, we’re going to get the best two men. Fine. I’m cool with those numbers for the next 10 years. Because it starts to build a new generation of people who can put something on their résumé to get them other jobs. If we’ve got to divvy out as a percentage, divvy it out. And that’s something, as leading men, that we can go in and push for and push the envelope."
Mackie was realistic about his "celebrity voice" in a time of social activism.
"My celebrity voice is definitely not worth more than the regular guy's voice out there fighting for equality for our people," said Mackie. "I don't want to stand on a podium giving some (expletive) speech about me being in 'The Avengers,' and that now 'The Avengers are here to help!' That's just stupid."