thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-28--Donald Trump Jr Has Been Suspended From Twitter For Posting Coronavirus Disinformation

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Get the latest on coronavirus. Sign up to the Daily Brief for news, explainers, how-tos, opinion and more.
Advertisement
The president’s son shared a video of Dr Stella Immanuel in which she called hydroxychloroquine a “cure” for coronavirus, even though the anti-malaria drug has not been found to be an effective Covid-19 treatment.
President Trump retweeted his son’s post, but that has since been removed from his Twitter timeline.
Twitter said in a tweet: “This account has not been permanently suspended. Per the screenshot, the tweet requires deletion because it violates our rules (sharing misinformation on Covid-19), and the account will have limited functionality for 12 hours.”
This account has not been permanently suspended. Per the screenshot, the Tweet requires deletion because it violates our rules (sharing misinformation on COVID-19), and the account will have limited functionality for 12 hours. More in our rules: https://t.co/0wHWVV5QS4 https://t.co/0gq7rlaNw7 — Twitter Comms (@TwitterComms) July 28, 2020
Immanuel has previously made a number of bizarre medical claims including that alien DNA is used in some medical treatments. A video of her falsely touting the benefits of hydroxychloroquine was yesterday taken down by Facebook.
Advertisement
Responding to Facebook’s decision, the doctor, who practises in Houston, said that Jesus would crash the tech giant’s servers.
Hello Facebook put back my profile page and videos up or your computers with start crashing till you do. You are not bigger that God. I promise you. If my page is not back up face book will be down in Jesus name. — Stella Immanuel MD (@stella_immanuel) July 28, 2020
President Trump has spent months pushing hydroxychloroquine as a potential cure for Covid-19, against the advice of many of his administration’s top medical professionals.
The drug has the potential to cause significant side effects in some patients and has not been shown to combat coronavirus.
Back in May, Trump said his doctor did not recommend the drug to him but he requested it from the White House physician.
Advertisement
“I started taking it, because I think it’s good,” he said. “I’ve heard a lot of good stories.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-28--Government Ordered To Reveal More Secrets About Post-Brexit Trade Talks

HuffPost is part of Verizon Media .
Click ' I agree ' to allow Verizon Media and our partners to @ @ @ @ @ to access your device and use your data ( including location ) to understand your @ @ @ @ @ measure personalised ads .
We will also provide you with personalised ads on partner products @ @ @ @ @ we use your data in our Privacy Centre .
Once you confirm your privacy choices @ @ @ @ @ changes at any time by visiting your Privacy dashboard .
Click 'Learn more ' to @ @ @ @ @ Media and our partners collect and use data .

ASSOCIATED PRESS
Coronavirus has changed everything. Make sense of it all with the Waugh Zone, our evening politics briefing. Sign up now.
The government has been ordered to release more details about its post-Brexit trade talks, including with the United States, after transparency campaigners challenged its “extreme approach to secrecy”.
Advertisement
The information tribunal ruled that the Department for International Trade (DIT) must provide dates of all meetings of trade working groups set up with other countries to discuss future trade relationships.
It has also been told to reveal the agendas of the meetings as well as information about plans for the establishment of any new trade working groups.
The schedules of forthcoming meetings will also have to be released, the tribunal ruled in July.
The ruling came after the campaign group Global Justice Now challenged the government’s refusal to provide the details via a Freedom of Information request.
In its ruling, the tribunal accused DIT of having shown a “clear inability to provide answers on many points of detail” and of failing to approach some parts of the case in a “detailed and rigorous way”.
Advertisement
There is widespread concern among opposition MPs and campaigners that, despite government denials, public services such as the NHS and consumer standards could be on the table in any trade talks with the Washington.
The latest round of negotiations on a proposed UK-US trade deal kicked off this week.
Nick Dearden, the director of Global Justice Now, told HuffPost UK the government’s “hostile approach to Freedom of Information law has been exposed for what it is”.
“We have been vindicated in challenging the government’s extreme approach to secrecy when it comes to trade negotiations,” he said.
“The tribunal agreed with us as to the need for proper and detailed public debate and public information around trade deals — after all these deals will affect all of us, often in profound ways.”
The government successfully defended its decision not to reveal all the information campaign groups had asked for, however.
Advertisement
DIT said exemptions under Freedom of Information rules such as “international relations” allowed it to withhold information where there was a risk it would impact upon the UK’s relations with foreign states.
The tribunal upheld the use of this and other exemptions, finding “the public interest in maintaining the exemptions narrowly outweighed the public interest” in disclosing the information to the public.
Dearden said, despite this, he hoped the government would now recognise the “urgent need to open up its trade policy to public debate”.
As HuffPost UK reported earlier this year, the government is known to be seeking trade deals with the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, China, India, Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which is made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
It also is known to have had talks with countries, including Norway, Mexico South Korea, Turkey and Israel, among others.
Advertisement
Erin Alcock, of the solicitors Leigh Day, said the ruling was a “positive step towards greater transparency in future trade deals”.
“Where so many fundamental issues such as environmental protections and food standards are at stake in post-Brexit trade deals, it is crucial that the public is kept informed, to the greatest extent possible, about what their government has put on the negotiating table and with whom it is negotiating,” she said.
And Sam Fowles, of Cornerstone Barristers, said the ruling had “relevance well beyond this one case”.
“The constitutional implications of this decision are significant,” he said. “The tribunal found, as a matter of fact, that international trade deals can drive primary legislation.”
A DIT spokesperson said: “Overall the tribunal found in favour of the Department for International Trade, with the exception of a few minor points such as plans for the establishment of working groups. The appeal was otherwise dismissed. We will comply with the tribunal.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-28--Tory Peer Says Brits On Holiday In Spain Should 'Accept The Consequences'

LOADING ERROR LOADING
A Tory peer has sparked anger after declaring that Britons caught out by the Spain quarantine changes should “accept the consequences” of booking a break “for pleasure” in a pandemic and should not be given any extra state help.
Baroness Buscombe, a former welfare minister, used an emergency Lords question on the row to criticise calls for fresh financial support to be given to workers forced to self-isolate for 14 days on return from holiday.
Advertisement
But she was quickly accused of “blaming the public” for Boris Johnson’s chaotic handling of foreign travel arrangements between the UK and elsewhere.
Thousands of holidaymakers have had their plans disrupted after the government gave just a few hours’ notice on Saturday that it was imposing a blanket quarantine requirement on everyone coming back from Spain.
On Monday, travellers were also told not to jet out to the Canary and Balearic Islands, even though the main sharp rise in Covid-19 cases has taken place in and around Catalonia on the mainland.
Labour, trade unions and other parties have all called for enhanced statutory sick pay to be made available to workers hit by the changes, but Baroness Buscombe was scathing.
Advertisement
“The trouble with Labour and the Liberal Democrats is they love spending other people’s money,” she said.
“They complain about austerity and then want to spend yet more of taxpayers’ money on people who have chosen to take risks by travelling mostly for pleasure in the middle of a worldwide pandemic.
“Perhaps we should change the word ‘pandemic’ to ‘plague’... Isn’t it time to stop treating everyone as if they are incapable of taking proportionate risks and accepting the consequences?”
PA
Buscombe, a former chair of the defunct Press Complaints Commission, then praised ministers for ”doing absolutely the right thing” in acting swiftly to impose quarantine on travellers from Spain.
Advertisement
In answer, transport minister Baroness Vere replied: “I’d like to thank my noble friend for her comments.
“And of course to a certain extent she is right, whenever one travels during a pandemic or otherwise there are always risks that are simply not present when one is at home. And so at the moment with the pandemic the risks are much higher.”
Baroness Vere stressed that the risks of travel could be “mitigated” with the right travel insurance and by booking with firms that offered flexibility to change the booking.
The minister had earlier said that some people may be eligible for Universal Credit if they face difficulties with employers refusing to pay their wages while they self-isolate on returning from abroad.
The row comes just a day after health minister Lord Bethell was accused of “blaming the poor” for their own deaths from coronavirus.
Advertisement
He had said that the disproportionate death rates were partly down to “the decisions that people make about social distancing, about their own health decisions…”
Labour’s shadow Lords leader Baroness Smith was furious at Buscombe’s comments and at the minister’s apparent endorsement.
“I was appalled by Baroness Buscombe’s comments but the minister really should have pulled her up on such deeply offensive views,” she told HuffPost UK.
“Blaming the public for the government’s own actions will seem deeply unfair to many.”
Earlier, during her urgent private notice question relayed via video link, Smith had told the Lords: “The government has really failed to understand the practicalities and the financial impact of self-isolation.”
The government advice to encourage employers to be “understanding” of those hit by the quarantine was “just not acceptable – and it is also totally irresponsible”, Smith said.
Advertisement
“She and I are working from home today but for millions of people, usually in the lowest paid jobs, that just isn’t possible. Even if employers are ‘understanding’, their landlords and others may not be. Pricing people out of self-isolation is dangerous – for all of us.”
Transport minister Grant Shapps decided to break his own holiday in Spain on Monday, leaving his family in the country while he travelled back to help coordinate further government action.
Boris Johnson said on Tuesday that the UK must be “vigilant” about threat of a second wave of coronavirus in Europe.
However, he refused to rule out changing the quarantine rules to reduce the 14-day period to 10 days with the right kind of testing.
When asked whether ‘regional travel corridors’ could be introduced, Baroness Vere also gave further clues to possible changes to the rules in coming days.
Advertisement
She said: “For the time being we are taking the approach by country for border measures.
“But it is the case that it could be that we could put them in place for regions in the future. We are not there yet, but we are certainly looking at it because it is an appropriate consideration.”
Tory peer Lord Hayward had also asked whether a new 40-minute covid test could be deployed at airports to avoid unnecessary self-isolation and loss of earnings on return.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-28--Dani Dyer Reveals She's Expecting Her First Child With Boyfriend Sammy Kimmence

Dave J Hogan via Getty Images
We’re here to guide you through the coronavirus pandemic. Sign up to the Life newsletter for daily tips, advice, how-tos and escapism.
Dani Dyer has revealed she’s pregnant with her first child with her boyfriend Sammy Kimmence.
The 24-year-old reality star shared the news on Instagram with a photo of herself holding up a picture of a scan and Kimmence kissing her on the cheek.
Advertisement
“Little bubba can’t believe you are going to be ours,” she wrote. “Me and Sammy are so excited to start this next chapter in our lives, feel so lucky and grateful.”
The couple first got together before she starred on ITV dating series Love Island in 2018, and rekindled their romance after her split from Jack Fincham, who she won the show with.
Kimmence wrote on Instagram: “To say I’m grateful is an understatement. Can’t wait to start my perfect little family with you. Baby Kimmence due 2021 … time to hang my boots up from vine FC.”
Advertisement
The couple celebrated their anniversary in April, when Dyer wrote: “Happy one year to us my bubs. Love you so so much.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--This Is How It Feels To Be At A Socially Distanced Festival

This Is How It Feels To Be At A Socially Distanced Festival
Adam Bloodworth braved the yurt to check out the UK's first socially-distanced festival at Gisburne Estate. The Gisburne Park Pop Up will be running every weekend until the end of August.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--EastEnders Star Laurie Brett Reveals Behind-The-Scenes Story About That Infamous 'How's Adam?' Gaffe

LOADING ERROR LOADING
It may have happened over five years ago, but EastEnders fans still talk about (and laugh at) the show’s infamous “How’s Adam?” gaffe.
So as former star Laurie Brett appeared on The One Show on Tuesday, it was only natural conversation turned to the blunder, which happened during the soap’s 30th anniversary live episodes in 2015.
Advertisement
During her reflection on the classic moment – which saw actor Jo Joyner mistakenly utter character Ian Beale’s real name – Laurie revealed a behind-the-scenes story we hadn’t known before.
Jo Joyner's "How's Adam?" gaffe prompted these incredible reactions BBC
Speaking to One Show hosts Alex Jones and Michael Ball, Laurie – who played Jane Beale – said: “The whole country knew it was live then, and she’s a fantastic actress. Everybody felt for her.
“The problem was I had no lines to say afterwards! I was thinking, ‘What can I say?’”
Revealing a decision to intervene had been made by one of the directors backstage, she continued: “I was about to say, ‘Tanya, have you been drinking?’ when a third AD (assistant director), Tish, took this really massive decision to throw Mimi [Keene], who played Cindy, on early. For a third AD to take that chance, and think ‘is this the right thing to do?’ was really brave, so everybody just pulled together.
Advertisement
“As I say, I was trying to think of something to say. Jo held it together. I held it together. Like I say, someone took the decision to throw Mimi on rather quickly. I think she got thrown through the door.”
The blunder happened during a week of special live episodes of EastEnders to reveal the identity of Lucy Beale’s killer.
Two of them re-aired on Tuesday night as part of the soap’s Iconic Episodes series, in lieu of any new episodes airing.
The show fell off the air for the first time in 35 years in June, after filming was suspended for three months back in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Advertisement
Jo Joyner – who reprised her role as Tanya Branning in the 30th anniversary special back in 2015 – previously admitted she was left haunted by her “How’s Adam?” gaffe.
She told Radio Times: “I don’t need to (watch it) because people were sending me pictures of my face in shock every day on Twitter. So I’ve seen that image a few million times.
“I’ve got a good sense of humour. But I couldn’t laugh about it until I’d gone out there the next night. I knew that people were watching to see if I messed up again.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--'I Don’t Know How Anyone Is Not Saying Or Doing More': Megalyn Echikunwoke On The Extent Of Her Acti

'I Don’t Know How Anyone Is Not Saying Or Doing More': Megalyn Echikunwoke On The Extent Of Her Activism

Given the news cycle right now, it’s no surprise that more of us than ever seem to be self-defining as activists. It feels natural to want to respond to injustices, like the death of American citizen George Floyd, by protesting in some form.
But in an age where social media ‘events’ such as #BlackoutTuesday are defined as activism, are we throwing around the word too readily? Are many of us actually being passive allies to movements like Black Lives Matter by supporting using our social media feeds, but not with our wallets and our actions?
Advertisement
The debate around what constitutes allyship and activism has never felt more pertinent. After all, what’s the benefit of calling out injustices among like minded friends if we aren’t taking our message to people outside of our social circles?
Megalyn Echikunwoke recently starred in new Fox commission Almost Family. Fox Via Getty Images
While many of us are in the early stages of educational discovery, learning about the best ways to support organisations like Black Lives Matter, actor Megalyn Echikunwoke seems leaps and bounds ahead - not that she was aware of the extent of her activism until now.
“I don’t really think about it that much,” she tells HuffPost UK. “I don’t approach it like, ‘I’m doing this’ - I just sort of do it. But I’m actually realising I do all these little things. It feels really great.”
Advertisement
“Now when you’re asking me, I’m just sort of remembering: I did that and I did that and I did that - and it’s all really meaningful to me,” she adds.
During the height of the LA protests following the murder of George Floyd, Megalyn was in the thick of it. “I literally remember running away from a burning cop car with a bunch of people,” she reflects.
Megalyn Echikunwoke has contributed an episode to a charity podcast raising money for the Covid-19 relief effort in Nigeria Emma McIntyre /VF20 via Getty Images
“The energy was really infectious, it was really wonderful to be there and to see it and also to see first hand what the intentions are. [The police] came out with the intent to abuse people and that’s exactly what happened, and it turned into - well you saw the news, you saw what it turned into...”
The actor is known for her roles in major American TV shows like That 70s Show, 24 and House of Lies. More recently, Megalyn starred in comedy flick Night School alongside Tiffany Haddish and Kevin Hart, and played the lead role of a talented dancer called Jamilah in Netflix movie Step Sisters.
Advertisement
She’s speaking to HuffPost UK to promote a children’s story developed as part of the GEANCO charity’s STOR14S series, raising money to support the Covid-19 relief effort in Nigeria, where Megalyn’s father is from.
Listeners can stream The Diary of Primrose Goldie Gold online, donate, and listen to others in the series, read by actors including Benedict Cumberbatch, David Oyelowo and Thandie Newton.
Megalyn Echikunwoke attended the Black Lives Matter protests in Hollywood Ian West - PA Images via Getty Images
The charity series is one of only a few work projects Megalyn has had on since the lockdown. She has mostly been using her platform and the downtime to spread messages about equality organisations.
“It’s nice to get up and have an interview about something!” she says chirpily. “There’s no work, no one’s working.”
Advertisement
She has decided to take a breather from the intensity of Los Angeles and disappear to a small coastal town for a short break. She’s ordering breakfast when we speak, fitting in bites between impassioned chat.
“I met Afam, founder of GEANCO, and his father at an African first lady’s summit in LA over ten years ago,” she remembers. “I fell in love with them - at the time the charity was so tiny. They were like, ‘yeah it’s named after me and my sister and this Nigerian doctor,’ and Afam’s dad is so adorable and so I kinda just latched onto them because I really believed in what they were doing.”
Megalyn also has her own plans to work more directly on development projects in Nigeria and she hopes to return to the village her father grew up in to offer support in some form.
“I love being able to use my work to actually make a difference instead of asking people for money” - Megalyn Echikunwoke
“I loved the story,” Megalyn offers. “I haven’t actually played that many children so I was really excited… I love Afam’s ability to find really creative ways to amplify the work of the charity. When he asked me it was a no brainer. I love being able to use my work to actually make a difference instead of asking people for money or donating money myself.”
Advertisement
No matter whether it’s the Covid-19 relief effort or supporting organisations to end racism, Megalyn’s feelings about modern day activism are complex: she aligns with the idea that posting on social media can be effective, but also indirect and at worst tokenistic.
Megalyn Echikunwoke attends a GEANCO Foundation Hollywood Fundraiser Michael Tullberg via Getty Images
“If I have it my way I would never look at social media, I wouldn’t have an account, I would let someone else do it but that’s not how it is right now,” says Megalyn.
Under lockdown Megalyn has published a raft of messages about the racism protests on Instagram and feels grateful when people say they like them, or she hears they have led to more donations, or people taking direct action.
On the other side of the coin, more troublingly, she feels perplexed by what she perceives as a lack of action on social media after a major news event breaks.
Advertisement
She recalls hearing about murders taking place before George Floyd, publicised on Instagram to little fanfare. “Nothing would happen,” she says.
“I felt people would talk a big game on Instagram and do nothing and say nothing. And I also felt that the stuff that I posted pre May of 2020, quote unquote ‘activist stuff,’ felt very seamless, it didn’t feel radical or anything.
“People would say 'woah, you’re such an activist!' I was like, 'am I? Is this really so brave of me?” - Megalyn Echikunwoke
“People would say ’woah, you’re such an activist, you’re really out there saying something!” and I was like, ’am I? Is this really so brave of me? I’m just out there saying that what I’m seeing is out of control and so upsetting,” she says.
“I don’t know how anyone is not saying more or doing more - and not to say that I’m some crusader or that I’m responsible for all the amazing things that are happening: no, I’m a tiny voice.
Advertisement
“But I did find it really interesting how taken aback people would be about the things that I would post that I didn’t find very inflammatory or particularly profound, I would just say what was happening, what was real, what was true, what was important to talk about.”
After her break, Megalyn will return to LA, although she describes a city of “no work.” There was chatter about studios reopening, but bosses are getting cold feet about a second wave of the virus, she fears. In the meantime, the 37-year-old is channeling her concerns into her writing, getting out on the page what she cannot in front of the camera. “It’s been a great time to focus on the things I want to do personally and shift into more of a creator mode,” she says. One story she’s working on is about a mentally ill man and the impact the American criminal justice system has had on his life. Perhaps she veers towards issues-focussed roles but she reminds me she “likes comedies too!” Megalyn’s also developing a coming of age story about a woman from the Niger Delta area of Nigeria, growing up in the midst of environmental terrorism and trying to figure out her identity and sexuality.
“I can post an instagram post all day long but that’s not what I do: I’m not an Instagrammer, I’m an artist...” - Megalyn Echikunwoke
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--5 Things We Learned About Prince William During That Peter Crouch Podcast

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Listen to HuffPost Life’s weekly podcast Am I Making You Uncomfortable? about our health, bodies and private lives. Available on Spotify, Apple, Audioboom and wherever you listen to your podcasts
Prince William loves chicken tikka masala and his go-to karaoke song is Bohemian Rhapsody. Those were just two of the unexpected facts that listeners learned about HRH, when he appeared in a special episode of BBC Radio Five Live’s That Peter Crouch Podcast.
Advertisement
The episode was recorded in two parts, at Kensington Palace in March, and via video call earlier this month. The Duke sat down with Peter Crouch, alongside Tom Fordyce and Chris Stark, to discuss the importance of talking about mental health.
“We all have mental health, and we all have to stay mentally fit,” he said. “It’s a strength to talk about your mental health, it’s not a weakness. You know, if you’re not feeling well, something’s bothering you, talk about it – it’s not a problem.”
Kensington Palace
The episode was released to coincide with this weekend’s FA Cup Final, which has been officially renamed the ‘Heads Up’ FA Cup Final, to encourage further conversations about mental health, both on and off the pitch.
Advertisement
This follows HuffPost UK’s Head In The Game series, which saw athletes across a variety of disciplines speak candidly about their mental health.
But the podcast conversation between the four men – who sat down with beers and curry – took some unusual turns. Here are five things we learned about Prince William.
He isn’t great at buying gifts
The conversation turned to the worst presents bought for a partner, and Prince William admitted Kate hasn’t always been impressed with the results.
“I did get my wife a pair of binoculars once – she’s never let me forget that,” he said, while the three hosts laughed. “That was early on in the courtship, that was – think that sealed the deal....It didn’t go well. Honestly, I have no idea why I bought her a pair of binoculars, it seemed like a good idea at the time.”
He’s a Queen fan
When asked about his favourite song to sing in public, William declared his love for Queen – the band, not his grandmother.
Advertisement
“To be honest, I’m not going to lie, I haven’t sung karaoke for a while now, but probably Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody,” he said. “It’s one of the few songs I know all the lyrics to.”
He’s been re-evaluating life since lockdown
Like many of us, the UK lockdown caused William to pause and “revalue” what’s important in life.
“This period of time has allowed us to all revalue things. The thing about lockdown is that it has been a little bit of an awakening that we maybe take our lives a bit for granted sometimes and there’s a lot of things out there that can wobble all of us at any time,” he said.
“I think particularly now, as a parent, it starts to make you look a bit more to the future at what kind of world we are going to hand over to the next generation. There’s been a lot of time to think - and you can also have too much time to think, and that’s also what worries me.”
He can’t handle spice
A bizarre moment of the podcast saw Prince William pause the conversation to answer the door, collecting a takeaway curry for the group. When asked his go-to order, he replied: “Chicken masala, love that, a bit of flavour – I’m not a vindaloo man, put it that way.”
He didn’t love homeschooling
William, it seems, will be pleased to see his children going back to school in September.
“I found it pretty testing, trying to keep the children engaged and interested in some sort of work,” he said. “It’s been an interesting few months.
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Emmys Criticised For Failing To Nominate Pose's Black And Latinx Trans And Non-Binary Stars

LOADING ERROR LOADING
The Emmys is facing heavy criticism online after failing to recognise the Black and Latinx trans women and non-binary actors who star in US drama Pose.
The awards academy announced its latest set of nominations on Tuesday evening, but there were no nods for Mj Rodriguez, Dominique Jackson, Indya Moore, Angelica Ross and Hailie Sahar, who play five of the main characters in the groundbreaking series.
Advertisement
Janet Mock, the trailblazing Black trans director who serves as an executive producer on Pose, also missed out on a nomination.
Billy Porter was the only individual to receive a nomination for the show, in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series category.
Pose's MJ Rodriguez, Indya Moore, Hailie Sahar and Dominique Jackson SIPA USA/PA Images
Pose explores LGBTQ ball culture in New York during the late 1980s and early 90s, and with the show amplifying the voices and experiences of the Black and Latinx trans community, fans on social media have called out the Emmys for not acknowledging many of the cast’s performances for the second year running.
Advertisement
The #Emmys snubbed Pose. That is unconscionable. I am thrilled that Watchmen, Euphoria, and Insecure are receiving their just due, but who is included in our vision of inclusivity? Are trans Black and Latinx people supposed to wait and wait and wait to be recognized? — Evette Dionne (@freeblackgirl) July 28, 2020
WAIT!!! No nominations for my two favorites @IndyaMoore & @MjRodriguez7???? Please know that fans are upset & that the Emmys do NOT reflect how Pose has impacted so many lives. You two are immensely talented & beautiful 💛✨ — Jade Cobb-Dozier (@jadeshareee) July 28, 2020
Pose is one of the best shows ever. The characters, the plotlines, & the historical context that relates to then & now, it can’t be overlooked.
For it to not even be considered a Best Drama by the Emmys is just outright disrespectful to Black & LGBTQIA+ writers & our existence. — Queer Latifah (@BougieBlackness) July 28, 2020
The Pose erasure in the Emmys is devastating. Also a lot of Latinx creators and critics commenting on the lack of Latinx representation in this year's nominees are leaving Pose out of their lists, don't erase our Afro-Latinx community. — Sofia Alvarado (@Sofiw26) July 28, 2020
The ladies of pose being snubbed by the Emmys.. disappointed but not surprised
Billy Porter really deserved his nomination, I'm so happy for him, but THE GIRLS CARRIED THE ENTIRE S2 ON THEIR BACK. They are literally the LEADS in the show & deserve awards for their acting! #Emmys pic.twitter.com/AIYR4hmPd4 — dani (@miasthermopolis) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
Tbh I'm annoyed that "Pose", a show about trans women of colour has consistently only been given Emmy recognition for the performance of a Cis man. And the women of post turn in great performances every episode worthy of recognition. #Emmys2020 #Emmys — Home Of Sexuals 🇬🇾🏳🌈 (@TopherFrance) July 28, 2020
You're telling me that a cis actor is the only one worth nominating or elevating on a show that centers the Black trans experience? Y'all playing in our faces yet again.
The Black trans women who work on #PoseFX deserve so much more recognition from the #Emmys2020 and beyond. — Raquel Willis (@RaquelWillis_) July 28, 2020
The fact the #Emmys have once again ignored the incredible actresses in #Pose says a lot. These women bring it in every episode and deserve to be recognised for it... pic.twitter.com/BLh8bBLlbP — Lewis John Yule 🎬🎞🎥 (@LewisJohnY2) July 28, 2020
This read alone deserves an Emmy.
So annoying the @TheEmmys did not nominate any of the Pose girls for an Emmy.
pic.twitter.com/9JkWMD5zev — Petey Plastic (@PeteyPlastic) July 29, 2020
POSE DESERVES BETTER !!!!
World class talents deserve a world class acknowledgement. This is literally the best drama series that was ever made, which is more than powerful and impactful. I am so upset and disappointed with this robbery 😭
THESE WOMEN DESERVES BETTER!!#Emmys pic.twitter.com/KGFfNo7zGS — mahiwaga (@BayaniMark_) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
where is @angelicaross emmy nod for pose? MAKE IT MAKE SENSE — Noah Thomas (@noahjdthomass) July 29, 2020
Happy that Pose is nominated and Billy Porter deserves all the flowers coming his way.. But in a show where black trans women are the focal point, with black trans actresses performing these roles and doing them marvelously, the only Emmy acting nom shouldn't be for a cis man pic.twitter.com/J3tNVqDOfk — Elijah McClain || Breonna Taylor (@MJsaysthings) July 28, 2020
No shade to Billy Porter but you’re saying none of the beautiful black and brown trans women on Pose deserved to be nominated for an Emmy? Wtf? Billy’s amazing but MJ literally CARRIES that show. Angelica Ross’s performance alone is deserving of all the Emmys! — antonio✊🏾🐉 (@antoniolasanta) July 28, 2020
Pose is a show written by AND about Black trans women. Black trans women are the HEART of that show. Make it make sense. — ana (@nicccbottom) July 28, 2020
Why is Billy Porter the only actor from POSE that gets recognition? I’m happy about his Emmy mom, but this show is about BLACK TRANS WOMEN. They deserve better! pic.twitter.com/3xBA9CCkI6 — Tyler Grigsby (@Petty_LuPone) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
Thrilled that @theebillyporter was nominated for best actor again but it's a damn shame that @MjRodriguez7, @IndyaMoore, and @angelicaross were snubbed yet again. They deserve so much better. #PoseFX #Emmys — Alyssa Benson (@alyssaabenson) July 28, 2020
Queer Eye star Karamo Brown – who was nominated for a handful of awards including Best Host For A Reality Or Competition Programme along with his co-stars – also drew attention to Pose’s lack of recognition on Twitter.
He wrote: “I’m thankful for the Emmy nom we the Fab 5 got - but I must also recognise that the most Fabulous 5... these beautiful trans & non binary actors deserved to be nominated for an Emmy too! It is a disgrace that their performances were over looked again!
“The industry must do better!” he added.
I’m thankful for the Emmy nom we the Fab 5 got - but I must also recognize that the most Fabulous 5... these beautiful trans & non binary actors deserved to be nominated for an Emmy too! It is a disgrace that their performances were over looked again! The industry must do better! pic.twitter.com/VJ4PxL9jaB — Karamo (@Karamo) July 29, 2020
Indya Moore and Angelica Ross, who play Angel and Candy respectively, have also reacted to the awards snub.
Advertisement
Indya tweeted: “I didn’t invent the academy or any of the award shows. If they think my work is unworthy Chile that’s just that... Imagine if we depended on cis ppl to validate anything about us.”
I cNt tell nobody I deserve their sht. I didn't invent the academy or any of the award shows. If they think my work is unworthy Chile that's just that. — 🌄 (@IndyaMoore) July 28, 2020
Imagine if we depended on cis ppl to validate anything about us. — 🌄 (@IndyaMoore) July 28, 2020
Angelica became emotional during an Instagram Live video, explaining her tears were “not about an award or nominees,” but about a much bigger issue in society.
She said: “Ultimately, I need you to understand that I am so tired. Because those of you that know me know that I’m not just working in front of the screen or behind the lens or whatever. I’m working around the clock to get our society to value trans lives and Black trans lives. And listen, I feel what I feel because I feel like there is nothing we can do.”
Advertisement
Angelica Ross plays Candy on Pose, who was at the centre of a very emotional storyline in the show's second series Charles Sykes/Invision/AP
Pose debuted in 2018 on US network FX, before it arrived in the UK the following year, airing on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
Both series have been lauded among critics – the first season has an approval rating of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, with the second coming in at 97%.
Last year, Billy Porter won the Emmy in the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as emcee Praytell, making him the first gay Black man to win the accolade.
Pose was also nominated for Outstanding Drama Series, but there were no acting nominations for the female cast.
Advertisement
Aside from a second nomination for Billy, this year Pose has only been recognised in categories for make-up, hairstyling and costume design.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Wiley Permanently Banned From Twitter Over Anti-Semitic Posts

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Wiley has been permanently suspended from Twitter, six days after he published a series of anti-Semitic tweets.
The grime artist – whose real name is Richard Cowie Jr – has been widely condemned for posting a series of anti-Semitic messages on Twitter and Instagram.
Advertisement
He was initially given a temporary ban, with the majority of his tweets remaining visible.
However, as of Wednesday, his account no longer has any content but for a message reading: “Account suspended.”
The move comes after social media users staged a 48-hour boycott of the platform in protest of Twitter’s handling of the incident.
Wiley has been widely condemned for posting a series of anti-Semitic messages on Twitter and Instagram. ASSOCIATED PRESS
Social networks including Facebook and Instagram have also faced criticism for not acting sooner to take down the content, with even Downing Street saying their response “has not been good enough”.
Advertisement
A Twitter spokesperson said: “Upon further investigation, our teams have permanently suspended the account in question for repeated violations of our hateful conduct policy.
“Let us be clear: hateful conduct has absolutely no place on our service and we strongly condemn anti-Semitism. We are sorry we did not move faster and are continuing to assess the situation internally.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--What Is #ChallengeAccepted On Instagram About? Here's The Story Behind It

ShotPrime via Getty Images
Listen to our weekly podcast Am I Making You Uncomfortable? about women’s health, bodies and private lives. Available on Spotify, Apple, Audioboom and wherever you listen to your podcasts.
By now, you’ve probably seen women posting black and white photos of themselves on social media, proudly declaring #ChallengeAccepted. You may have even taken part yourself, stating you’re all for #WomenSupportingWomen.
Advertisement
Dozens of celebs have shared their own version of the “challenge” in the past week, with the likes of Natalie Portman, Cindy Crawford, Gal Gadot and Eva Longoria among the biggest names taking part.
And women from all walks of life have joined in, with more than five million images on Instagram now posted alongside the hashtag.
Advertisement
Most posts contain a message about women raising one another up, with the poster nominating a friend to take part. But the trend hasn’t been without its critics, with some labelling it as an excuse to post a “hot selfie”.
What is the point of this #ChallengeAccepted thing? Do people not know you can just post a hot selfie for no reason? — Camilla Blackett (@camillard) July 27, 2020
Over on Instagram people are sharing sexy black and white selfies in the name of empowerment which, I guess, is fine but it’s basically everything you need to know about the conflation of individualism and activism in our current politics — Vicky Spratt (@Victoria_Spratt) July 28, 2020
I literally cannot get over challenge accepted, here’s a hot photo of myself because I support women — Caroline Moss (@CarolineMoss) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
But the very criticism of the challenge is receiving criticism itself, with some arguing that the backlash is just another way to throw hate at women.
Why can’t women do what they want to feel good about themselves without getting attacked I just don’t understand :) If some women feel empowered by posting a pretty photo of themselves in b&w on Instagram JUST LET THEM!!! Stop trying to pull them down with you!!! Let women live. — Morgan Raum (@morgan_raum) July 29, 2020
So what does this challenge actually mean – and where did it start?
There are differing opinions on where the hashtag originated from, meaning the motivations of those posting the images may be different. Black and white photos were initially shared with the hashtag #ChallengeAccepted back in 2016 to raise cancer awareness.
In recent weeks, however, some speculated that Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s speech in the House of Representatives, where she criticised Ted Yoho for calling her a “fucking bitch”, may have inspired the current trend of female empowerment. Cristine Abram, marketing manager for Later, a social media marketing firm, believes this to be the case, telling the New York Times: “That was the spark that led to the resurgence of the hashtag challenge. It’s all to do with female empowerment.”
Instagram told the publication this current cycle of the challenge appears to have been started by Brazilian journalist Ana Paula Padrão, who shared an image on July 18.
Advertisement
The most likely origin, however, is that the challenge was started to raise awareness of domestic violence and the killing of women in Turkey. The Instagram account @auturkishculturalclub posted a series of Instagram stories, which have been widely shared, stating that Turkey is one of the “top countries when it comes to femicides”.
“Turkish people wake up every day to see a black and white photo of a woman who has been murdered on their Instagram feed, on their newspapers, on their TV screens,” the post reads.
“The black and white photo challenge started as a way for women to raise their voice. To stand in solidarity with the women we have lost. To show that one day, it could be their picture that is plastered across news outlets with a black and white filter on top.”
The account also shared a post detailing what women can do to practically support women in Turkey, including donating to shelters.
Advertisement
Some have said the Turkish hashtags associated with the challenge, which explicitly called for an end to violence against women, have been removed as posts have gone viral.
The Turkish hashtags about domestic violence and femicide were dropped as the challenge went viral. The images were for women to bond “but MORE importantly that we know that we can be the next trending image and hashtag.” - @zeycan_rochelle — Tariro Mzezewa (@tariro) July 28, 2020
Many on social media have not called for an end to the trend, but have instead encouraged women to educate themselves about the origins of the hashtag and edit their posts to offer vital context.
“I’ve said it before – question your activism and understand why you’re doing it,” author and journalist Poorna Bell wrote on Instagram. “If your reaction to this is that you wouldn’t have posted it knowing what it’s about, ask yourself why you feel comfortable posting a photo of yourself to support women in a vague way, but not women from Turkey who are being senselessly killed in domestic violence situations – a number that has risen 200% since 2013.
“Women support women, the end. Not just the women in our own lives. Also, very proud of people that have edited their posts and flagged the change. We are all learning, and you are amazing.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Annie Lennox Blasts Madonna For Sharing ‘Dangerous’ Coronavirus Conspiracy Theory

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Annie Lennox has called out Madonna for sharing a debunked coronavirus conspiracy theory on social media.
On Tuesday, the Like A Prayer singer shared a video of false claims, previously supported by Donald Trump, that hydroxychloroquine is an effective treatment for Covid-19.
Advertisement
In her post, which has since been hidden by Instagram for containing false information, Madonna called controversial US-based doctor Stella Immanuel – who appears in the video – her “hero”.
Madonna and Annie Lennox AP
“The truth will set us all free!” the pop star wrote. “But some people don’t want to hear the truth. Especially the people in power who stand to make money from this long drawn-out search for a vaccine. Which has been proven and has been available for months. They would rather let fear control them and let the rich get richer and the poor and sick get sicker.”
Almost immediately, the singer received backlash not just from many of her fans, but also from Eurythmics star Annie Lennox, who blasted Madonna’s claims as “dangerous quackery”.
Advertisement
“This is utter madness!!! I can’t believe that you are endorsing this dangerous quackery. Hopefully your site has been hacked and you’re just about to explain it...” Annie wrote in response.
Annie Lennox commented on the post Instagram
Instagram blurred out the video with a caption saying: “False Information”.
It also directed users to a page debunking the claims in the video, noting there is no coronavirus vaccine.
The World Health Organisation has previously stated there is currently no proof that hydroxychloroquine ‘cures’ coronavirus and reiterated that misuse of the drug could cause “serious side effects and illness and even lead to death”.
Earlier this week, Donald Trump Jr was suspended from Twitter for posting “misleading information” after he also shared the video of Stella Immanuel, declaring it a “must watch”.
Advertisement
Immanuel has previously shared conspiracy theories about alien DNA and “demon sperm”. She has also used her platform to protest against the legalisation of gay marriage and abortion on her YouTube page.
It’s not the first time Madonna has raised eyebrows over comments she has made about coronavirus.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Normal People's Paul Mescal Has The Sweetest Message For Daisy Edgar-Jones After Emmy Nomination

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Make the most of your time indoors with a daily dose of celebrity news and guides to the best shows. Sign up to the entertainment newsletter.
Normal People star Paul Mescal made sure to let fans know his Emmy nomination was for both him and co-star Daisy Edgar-Jones, after learning he was up for an acting gong at the prestigious US awards.
Advertisement
The Irish actor – who is on the shortlist in the Lead Actor in a Limited Series category – admitted he was disappointed to see Daisy miss out on a nomination for the equivalent actress prize.
After the nominations were announced on Tuesday evening, Paul tweeted a picture of his Normal People character Connell crying in the BBC Three drama, before paying tribute to the British actor.
Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones Rachel Murray via Getty Images
“My actual face right now!” he wrote. “Thank you to absolutely everyone at @ElementPictures, @hulu and @bbcthree! @lennyabrahamson I will never be able to thank you enough!
Advertisement
″@DaisyEdgarJones this only exists because of you and your extraordinary talent it’s as simple as that! Thank you all x.”
My actual face right now! Thank you to absolutely everyone at @ElementPictures,@hulu and @bbcthree! @lennyabrahamson I will never be able to thank you enough ❤! @DaisyEdgarJones this only exists because of you and your extraordinary talent it’s as simple as that! Thank you all x pic.twitter.com/s3t6hqr0SW — Paul Mescal (@mescal_paul) July 28, 2020
Paul also praised Daisy’s work on the series, which focussed on the complicated love story of Connell and Marianne during their college and university years.
He told Vulture: “If it was me I would have given her all the love in that category. I can’t speak highly enough of the work she did on the show.
“I know there are extraordinary actresses nominated in that category, but I think Daisy’s work is just phenomenal in this.”
Advertisement
He also revealed Daisy was “just so excited” for the show’s nominees, with the hit BBC drama listed in four categories including directing, writing and casting.
The pair played Connell and Marianne in BBC Three's Normal People BBC/Element Pictures/Hulu
Paul added to Deadline: “I’m the biggest fan of her as an actor.
“I just would not for a second have have been able to do anything that I did without her. It wouldn’t have happened.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Trump Clings To Unproven Treatments As US Sinks Deeper Into Pandemic

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Donald Trump’s press conference quickly unravelled on Tuesday as he struggled to defend a video he’d retweeted that is full of false claims about the coronavirus and complained about his low approval rating.
Reporters asked Trump repeated questions about his continued support for hydroxychloroquine as a Covid-19 treatment a day after he retweeted several conspiracy theories about the drug. Multiple clinical trials have found hydroxychloroquine is not an effective coronavirus treatment, despite the president’s suggestions to the contrary.
Advertisement
“Many doctors think it is extremely successful,” Trump claimed when asked about the retweets, adding, “I happen to believe in it. I would take it. As you know, I took it for a 14-day period, and I’m here. ... It’s safe. It doesn’t cause problems.”
Trump was also forced to answer for a video he retweeted on Monday that showed a group of self-proclaimed medical experts claiming that social distancing and masks were not necessary to curb the spread of Covid-19 and alleging that officials were suppressing the use of hydroxychloroquine for political reasons. The event was hosted and funded by the right-wing nonprofit Tea Party Patriots, which has been organising projects to promote that narrative.
A reporter pointed out to Trump ― who’d just recently encouraged Americans to wear protective masks (in line with Dr Anthony Fauci and other real experts in infectious diseases) ― that one of the main doctors featured in the video is a full-blown conspiracy theorist: “She’s also made videos saying that doctors make medicine using DNA from aliens and that they’re trying to create a vaccine to make you immune from becoming religious.”
The president all but shrugged his shoulders.
“I happen to believe in it. I would take it," President Donald Trump said of hydroxychloroquine on Tuesday. Alex Wong via Getty Images
Advertisement
“She was on air, along with many other doctors,” Trump said. “They were big fans of hydroxychloroquine, and I thought she was very impressive. ... She said that she’s had tremendous success with hundreds of different patients.”
In reality, studies have found that hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug, is not effective for Covid-19 treatment or prevention. After Trump began touting it in March, leading to panic-buying of the medication, the Food and Drug Administration had to post a caution against anyone using it to treat Covid-19 outside a hospital or clinical setting ― because it can trigger serious heart rhythm problems. The doctors speaking in the video presented no evidence of any patients they’ve successfully treated.
After fumbling through his answer about the video, Trump quickly walked off the podium, ending the briefing after less than 30 minutes. In the past, his coronavirus-related briefings have lasted for over an hour.
But the president appeared eager to wrap up the event on Tuesday, complaining several times that he was being unfairly maligned. At one point he suggested that health experts were not backing hydroxychloroquine to spite him.
“It doesn’t seem to be too popular,” Trump said of the drug. “You know why? Because I recommend it. When I recommend something, they like to say don’t use it.”
Advertisement
Trump, who typically maintains that he’s very well-liked by voters, also complained to reporters that Fauci, the country’s leading infectious disease expert who frequently contradicts Trump, is more popular than he is.
“He’s got this high approval rating, so why don’t I have a high approval rating with respect ― and the administration ― with respect to the virus? We should have it very high,” Trump said.
“They’re highly thought of,” he said of Fauci and Dr Deborah Birx, who are both on the White House’s coronavirus task force. “But nobody likes me. It can only be my personality, that’s all.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--5 Things I Wish I'd Known Before Buying My First Home (In A Pandemic)

LOADING ERROR LOADING
We’re here to guide you through the coronavirus pandemic. Sign up to the Life newsletter for daily tips, advice, how-tos and escapism.
Buying your first property is a confusing enough process at the best of times, but doing it during a pandemic is a mindfuck. Trust me, I did it.
Advertisement
We were in the middle of first tentative steps, we’d had an offer accepted and things were going swimmingly. A few months later my other half had been furloughed, I’d lost a ton of work as a freelancer, and the housing market had shut down. It was almost enough for us to turn and run, accepting we’d be renting for the rest of our lives.
But, we persevered and we did it – with more questions than answers and countless nights of lost sleep doubting our decision making, admittedly. And now I wanted to pass on some important lessons learned along the way (sometimes the hard way) and tips I wish I’d known before trying to navigate the property market.
1. Do your research and work out mortgage maths
It’s optional, but I’d recommend getting a mortgage broker. It might cost a small fee, but the time and energy you save from searching for mortgage deals yourself is well worth it. Some brokers have a deal where they waiver their mortgage application fee if you agree to take out life or home content insurance with them as well, while some mortgage products offer cash back which will cover the broker’s costs.
“Our job is to link the solicitors, the agent and the lender together. We help buyers get it right the first time. Answer any questions and guide you in the right way rather trying to piece it all together from the internet,” Nick Blatcher, director of Citrus Mortgages, explains.
Advertisement
“At the moment, It’s quite a struggle to get mortgage funds for clients – it’s like getting tickets for Glastonbury. It’s not near impossible though, we have been successful, it’s just taking a little bit longer than usual. Lenders are keen to lend, they’re just cautious about trying to match their workflows in a pandemic spread, so there’s not a massive influx of business.”
Whether you’re a sole trader, self-employed or full-time, brokers can provide free advice to help you understand the different types of mortgages available to you. “They’re currently putting these types of applications through the wringer and are requiring three months of bank statements to see if they’ve been impacted by Covid-19,” Blatcher adds. “There always options available but just more hoops to jump through at the moment.”
2. Get organised
If you’re not a spreadsheet person, buying a property will soon turn you into a spreadsheet person. It might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s vital to know the ins and outs of every penny – it’ll save pulling your hair out and angrily bashing on your calculator app trying to work everything out.
Keep tabs along the way, plan out exactly how much money you’re going to need for the deposit, solicitors fees or any sneaky hidden costs because things do add up. “Budgeting efficiently can save you a surprising amount of money. Everyone tends to get caught up in life easily and forgetting to keep an eye on their outgoings,” Damien Fahy, founder of Money To The Masses, explains.
“Budgeting and tracking your daily spending using an app like Monzo, Tandem and Yolt can help you easily spot those little expenses that add up to a surprising amount each month.”
Advertisement
There might be a stamp duty ‘holiday’ in place until the end of March 2021, which is potentially one less outgoing you have to worry about – but if the sale doesn’t go through before March you will have to pay, so it’s good an idea to factor in extra cash as a worst-case scenario.
Fahy added: “Although you may not be thinking about saving your money in these uncertain times, it may be a good time to squirrel away some of the money you are saving from being at home.”
Ridofranz via Getty Images
3. Don’t get into a bidding war
Leave the bidding wars to eBay, unless you’re really dead set or have an extra wad of cash to blow on your property. You might secure it, but going way over budget leaves you with barely anything left for the essentials – like furniture or white goods – and any potential renovations or decorations along the way. No one wants to sleep on a mattress on the floor for the better half of the year.
It’s disheartening to lose out on the dream home that got away, but almost always something better comes along. You just have to be on the lookout and glued to property websites at the right time and place – set up those alerts – or in lots of contact with local agents, the joys! Often, it’s down to lucky timing.
Advertisement
4. Avoid the smoke and mirrors
A lot of people forget that an estate agent is working for the vendor of the property, they’re not working for you. “Take what’s being said with a pinch of salt because their job is to sell that property,” Blatcher says. “Do your due diligence and your research. If you have any doubts about a property seek advice. There are people out there who will help you.”
If you’re at all unsure or there’s a potential issue, take your time and don’t be pressured into buying. If the survey reveals issues such as damp or subsidence, always get a second opinion on the costs to fix it – only then can you consider your options properly. And beware of knotweed.
It’s crazy to me that you see a property for less than half an hour and decide on one of the biggest purchases of your life there and then. Really take the time to think carefully and discuss it through.
5. Have a little a lot of patience
It’s only natural for you to want everything to go through quickly and with few problems – after all, you may have been waiting for or working towards this moment for a lifetime. But finding ‘the one’ takes time. And conveyancing – the legal paperwork needed for you to exchange and complete – takes longer.
From house viewings to waiting for a solicitor to respond to your email, it’s a process and things do fall through. At times you’ll feel like you’re stood still; you might even feel like you’re going backwards. Try not to obsess over it and acknowledge what’s in your control and what isn’t. Remember to breathe.
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--NYPD Under Scrutiny After Videos Show Officers Pulling Protester Into Unmarked Van

LOADING ERROR LOADING
The New York City Police Department has come under scrutiny after videos showed officers pulling a protester into an unmarked van during a demonstration Tuesday in Manhattan against racism and police brutality.
The Gothamist, citing the protester’s friends, identified her as an 18-year-old transgender woman. Videos shared on social media show the demonstrator being restrained by several NYPD officers before being pulled into the van.
Advertisement
“They grabbed [her] like she was rag doll,” a protester and witness told The Gothamist. “They had her arms on her neck and then they drove off.”
This is deeply troubling. Plainclothes NYPD officers yanked a protester off the street — identified by her friends as an 18-year old homeless trans person. Where is she? #WhereIsNikki
Cc: @NYCMayor https://t.co/ZdpvbVPij7 — Human Rights Campaign (@HRC) July 29, 2020
The NYPD said in a statement that the woman had been arrested after “damaging police cameras during 5 separate criminal incidents” in and around City Hall Park.
It added that the arresting officers were “assaulted with rocks and bottles” as they took the woman into custody.
Advertisement
Protesters told journalist Michelle Lhooq, who was at the scene, that the woman had put stickers on police cameras during Occupy City Hall, a weeks-long protest occupation that was dismantled last week in a police raid.
Lhooq documented other arrests made during Tuesday’s protest and wrote of aggressive confrontations between demonstrators and police.
Protesters said police used pepper spray and batons against them.
When officers from the Warrant Squad took the woman into custody in a gray NYPD minivan this evening, they were assaulted with rocks and bottles. The Warrant Squad uses unmarked vehicles to effectively locate wanted suspects. — NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) July 29, 2020
Several city officials have since questioned the NYPD’s handling of the woman’s arrest.
Council member Carlina Rivera called for an independent review of the incident, and the city’s comptroller, Scott Stringer, said he was “deeply concerned” by videos of the encounter.
“With anxiety about what’s happening in Portland, the NYPD deploying unmarked vans with plainclothes cops to make street arrests of protestors feels more like provocation than public safety,” Councilman Brad Lander said, alluding to similar tactics used by federal officers against protesters in Oregon.
Advertisement
I’m deeply concerned by the videos circulating of a protester being thrown into an unmarked van.
We need answers immediately. https://t.co/k8hUe4QLTC — Scott M. Stringer (@NYCComptroller) July 29, 2020
I just spoke to the CO of the 13th who said "the NYPD's Detective Bureau Warrant Division identified a wanted person & carried out an arrest."
Clearly we need an ind. review + an immediate explanation for why an unmarked van full of officers was anywhere near a peaceful protest. https://t.co/j4OKqp3MRv — Carlina Rivera 利華娜 (@CarlinaRivera) July 29, 2020
Agree with @CarlinaRivera here: with anxiety about what’s happening in Portland, the NYPD deploying unmarked vans with plainclothes cops to make street arrests of protestors feels more like provocation than public safety. https://t.co/UDfiJOWWUW — Brad Lander (@bradlander) July 29, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Trump Moans 'Nobody Likes Me,' And Twitter Critics Quickly Remind Him Why

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Donald Trump on Tuesday complained that people like Dr Anthony Fauci more than him.
And his critics were quick to point out why.
“He’s got this high approval rating, so why don’t I have a high approval rating with respect ― and the administration ― with respect to the virus?” Trump said at a news conference. “We should have it very high.”
Fauci is one of the nation’s leading infectious diseases experts and has been giving people the latest science-based information on the coronavirus pandemic.
Advertisement
Trump this week shared a video about the virus from a doctor who says she is also “exposing incubus and succubus.” The video was removed from social media for containing false information and supporting unproven treatments for Covid-19.
But Trump on Tuesday seemed puzzled as to why he’s not as well-regarded as Fauci and Dr Deborah Birx, another member of the White House coronavirus task force.
“They’re highly thought of,” he said. “But nobody likes me. It can only be my personality, that’s all.”
Trump’s complaint caused #NobodyLikesMe to trend on Twitter:
Trump finally told the truth!
“Nobody likes me.”
— Donald Trump — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 29, 2020
Advertisement
"...but nobody likes me." 🤦🏾♂🤦🏾♂🤦🏾♂ — Don Cheadle (@DonCheadle) July 29, 2020
OMFG 😂🤣😅
"He's got this high approval rating...Why don't I have a high approval rating?...Nobody likes me. It could only be my personality. I don't know."pic.twitter.com/tvv5hPWAYm — Holly Figueroa O'Reilly (@AynRandPaulRyan) July 28, 2020
Trump says Fauci's poll numbers are high but "nobody likes me."
This is what he thinks about, with 150,000 Americans dead due to the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/HUI5dXxX6z — David Corn (@DavidCornDC) July 28, 2020
"And yet, they're very highly thought of but nobody likes me. It can only be my personality, that's all." #TrumpPressConference
Cruelty, dishonesty, hubris and evil are rarely respected, but sure-let's call it his "personality." pic.twitter.com/9UzbyVAhLI — Amee Vanderpool (@girlsreallyrule) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
The all-time greatest chyron appeared today on CNN:
Trump As U.S. Nears 150,000 Deaths: "Nobody Likes Me" — Duty To Warn 🔉 (@duty2warn) July 28, 2020
Trump: nobody likes me.
Also Trump: if I don't win the election, it will be because it was rigged. — Leslie - 98 Days 🇺🇲🌊 (@Leslieoo7) July 29, 2020
"Why does everyone like Dr. Fauci and nobody likes me? Fauci Fauci Fauci!" pic.twitter.com/rDmRjZQUyj — JeremyNewberger (@jeremynewberger) July 28, 2020
“Why don't I have a high approval rating?...Nobody likes me.” This is the truest to come from Comrade Chump in 4 months.. . — Anthony Scaramucci (@Scaramucci) July 28, 2020
To recap: on the day when 150K are dead from the coronavirus, the President bemoans his low approval rating, compared with his public health officials. '.. they're highly thought of, and nobody likes me.' — Susan Glasser (@sbg1) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
Almost 150,000 Americans are dead and the president is complaining that “nobody likes me.” Unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/tLLC7rsxI2 — Voice of Reason (@RealJeffreyT) July 28, 2020
"Nobody likes me."
-A president responsible for over 150,000 dead Americans — Antifa SSGT Rick Havoc (@lib_owned) July 28, 2020
Almost 150,000 Americans are dead and the president is complaining that “nobody likes me.” Unbelievable. pic.twitter.com/tLLC7rsxI2 — Voice of Reason (@RealJeffreyT) July 28, 2020
Pro talk here.
This is a prime example when you have a difficult client that won’t listen to your advice or understand the negativity.
To quote Billy Joel:
“He’s never been able to learn from mistakes and can't understand why his heart always breaks”#NobodyLikesMe https://t.co/Wr3WY00Cat — Danny Deraney (@DannyDeraney) July 28, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Benedict Cumberbatch Surprising Comic Store Customers Dressed As Doctor Strange Is Just Glorious

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Make the most of your time indoors with a daily dose of celebrity news and guides to the best shows. Sign up to the entertainment newsletter.
A handful of comic fans’ dreams came true when the actual Doctor Strange casually rocked up to a comic bookstore IRL.
Advertisement
A video has emerged of Benedict Cumberbatch in full character regalia taking a break from filming the 2016 Marvel film to pay a visit to the store in Manhattan.
Sharing the video for the first time, Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson said they were filming the superhero movie outside the comic book store when he “spontaneously suggested” the British actor go inside.
The Sherlock star quickly drew stunned stares from customers, who rushed to pull out their phones to capture the moment.
Never before shown moment.
While shooting in Manhattan right in front of a comic book store, I spontaneously suggested to Benedict that he go inside and he agreed. pic.twitter.com/ge2DcqWpu1 — N O S ⋊ Ɔ I ᴚ ᴚ Ǝ ᗡ ⊥ ⊥ O Ɔ S (@scottderrickson) July 28, 2020
Advertisement
Speaking in Doctor Strange’s American accent, the actor shook hands with a worker behind the counter, joking: “It’s lovely to come off the shelf and say hello.
“If the movie doesn’t work out and it bombs, can I come and work with you guys, at least?” Benedict quipped.
Not missing a beat, the employee immediately agreed but insisted that the actor would need to speak in an American accent for the job.
″That’s fine, I’m good with that. It’s very snooty the British accent,” he told him.
Luckily for Benedict, Doctor Strange didn’t bomb ― grossing over $677 million worldwide. It was even nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.
Benedict will reprise his role in Doctor Strange In The Multiverse Of Madness, which has a release date of 2022.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Care Homes Were 'Thrown To The Wolves' During Covid-19 Outbreak, Says Commons Report

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Advising hospitals to discharge thousands of patients into care homes without knowing if they had coronavirus was a “reckless” and “appalling” policy error, a Commons report argues.
Discharging around 25,000 patients to free up beds was an example of the government’s “slow, inconsistent and at times negligent” approach to social care, the cross-party Public Accounts Committee (PAC) said.
Advertisement
It added that it was “concerned” that the department of health and social care (DHSC) had continued with the policy “even once it was clear there was an emerging problem”.
Hospitals in England were asked on March 17 to discharge patients, but patients did not require a coronavirus test prior to discharge until April 15.
And it was the end of April when the government said all care home residents and staff, regardless of symptoms, would be able to access tests.
This is despite Public Health England (PHE) telling the committee it was aware of asymptomatic transmission as early as the end of March.
Advertisement
In evidence on June 22, PHE’s Professor Paul Johnstone said: “What was becoming clear in the back-end of March and certainly from the beginning of April was that there was an asymptomatic phase, which means that people can transfer the virus without ever having symptoms, or a significant pre-symptomatic phase, which is where the virus could be shared.”
The DHSC told the committee in the same session it believes the clearest correlations between social care outbreaks related to staff rather than the discharge of hospital patients.
However, it added: “That is not the same as saying that we would do the same again.”
Peter Carruthers via Getty Images
The PAC said nobody would expect the government to get everything right in its initial response, but that it “urgently needs to reflect, acknowledge its mistakes, and learn from them”.
Testing, it says, should have been made available to hospital patients and social care staff “much more quickly”.
Advertisement
And it identified a lack of transparency around the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), with a tendency for the government to “overpromise and under deliver”.
Committee chairwoman, MP Meg Hillier, said: “The failure to provide adequate PPE or testing to the millions of staff and volunteers who risked their lives to help us through the first peak of the crisis is a sad, low moment in our national response.
“Our care homes were effectively thrown to the wolves, and the virus has ravaged some of them.”
She added: “The deaths of people in care homes devastated many, many families. They and we don’t have time for promises and slogans, or exercises in blame.
“We weren’t prepared for the first wave. Putting all else aside, government must use the narrow window we have now to plan for a second wave. Lives depend upon getting our response right.”
The report, Readying the NHS and social care for the Covid-19 peak, is the PAC’s first examination of the health and social care response to the crisis.
Advertisement
It also said it was concerned about a “scarcity of information on contracts and costs” during the period, when NHS England and Improvement said hundreds of thousands of patient treatments had been secured through independent hospitals.
Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derman via Getty Images
The committee said it was concerned that NHS England and Improvement had not provided a rough estimate of costs.
And it said allowing the Nightingale hospitals to remain empty while the NHS requires additional capacity for routine services “will not be a good use of public money”.
It is calling for the DHSC and NHS to write to the committee by September 1 detailing how private and Nightingale hospitals will be “made best use of” in the coming months.
Advertisement
A DHSC spokesman said: “Throughout this unprecedented global pandemic we have been working closely with the sector and public health experts to put in place guidance and support for adult social care.
“Alongside an extra £1.3 billion to support the hospital discharge process, we have provided 172 million items of PPE to the social care sector since the start of the pandemic and are testing all residents and staff, including repeat testing for staff and residents in care homes for over-65 or those with dementia.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Miami Man Arrested After Buying Lamborghini With $4 Million Covid Relief Aid

LOADING ERROR LOADING
A Florida man is facing charges after authorities say he fraudulently obtained $3.9 million in federal loans meant for small businesses impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and used it to buy a Lamborghini and other personal expenses.
David Tyler Hines, 29, of Miami was charged Monday with bank fraud, making false statements to a financial institution and engaging in transactions in unlawful proceeds, according to a copy of the criminal complaint.
Advertisement
Authorities said Hines, in all, requested approximately $13.5 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. He submitted seven loan applications in May, which contained “numerous false and misleading statements” about his alleged moving companies’ respective payroll expenses.
David Hines was charged Friday with fraudulently obtaining $3.9 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans and using the money, in part, to purchase a sports car for himself, authorities said MIAMI-DADE COUNTY CORRECTIONS
He claimed that his four companies paid millions in payroll during the first quarter of 2020, though state and bank records show that his companies had little to no payroll expense during this period, Postal Inspector Bryan Masmela said in the complaint.
“Those purported employees either did not exist or earned a fraction of what Hines claimed in his PPP applications,” stated Masmela, who also noted that authorities were unable to find any record of operating websites linked to Hines’ businesses.
Advertisement
Hines’ loan request was ultimately approved, however, and he was given $3.9 million, which within days he began spending, authorities said.
Hines’ spending spree allegedly included the purchase of a 2020 Lamborghini Huracan sports car, for approximately $318,000. He also made thousands of dollars in payments to dating websites, jewellery stores and luxury clothing retailers, as well as to Miami Beach resorts. Two payments totalling $30,000 were also documented as going to “mom,” according to the criminal complaint.
A Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder convertible sports car is seen on display in Brussels, Belgium, in January Sjoerd van der Wal via Getty Images
The bank accounts listed as belonging to his moving companies were closed on June 24 and $3.4 million was seized from the accounts at the time of his Friday arrest, authorities said.
“Businesses must use PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities,” the Department of Justice said in a release announcing Hines’ charges. “The PPP allows the interest and principal to be forgiven if businesses spend the proceeds on these expenses within a set time period and use at least a certain percentage of the loan towards payroll expenses.”
Advertisement
An attorney for Hines, in a statement to The Washington Post, defended him as a “legitimate business owner who, like millions of Americans, suffered financially during the pandemic.”
“While the allegations appear very serious, especially in light of the pandemic, David is anxious to tell his side of the story when the time comes,” said attorney Chad Piotrowski.
Hines’ Lamborghini purchase was discovered by investigators earlier this month after he was involved in a hit-and-run accident involving the vehicle on July 11, the Miami Herald reported.
The Lamborghini was linked back to Hines and impounded by Miami police, the Herald reported.
Hines was released Monday on a $100,000 bond during his first court appearance. He is being allowed to stay at his mother’s home with a GPS monitor. His next arraignment is scheduled for October 14, the Herald reported.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Ed Sheeran Says 'Addictive Personality' Led To Battle With Alcohol, And Binge Eating

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Ed Sheeran broke a months-long hiatus from the public eye to get candid about his mental and physical health.
As part of the Hay House Chasing the Present Summit, the four-time Grammy winner opened up about what he describes as the “lowest” point in his life. The challenging period in question, he said, came in 2015, while on tour to support his second album, x.
Advertisement
“I have a very addictive personality,” the 29-year-old said in the interview. “I would stay up and drink all night. The buses would park underneath arenas and I’d sleep on the bus all day and then wake up and then come out, do the show, drink, get back on the bus. I didn’t see sunlight for like maybe like four months.”
“I’m covered in tattoos and I don’t do things by halves,” he added. “If I’m gonna drink, I kinda see no point in having a glass of wine. I’d rather have two bottles of wine. ... It’s all fun and games at the start. It’s all rock and roll and it’s fun, and then it starts getting just sad. So I think that was probably the lowest that I’ve been.”
Ed Sheeran Jeff Spicer via Getty Images
Sheeran, who announced plans to take “a breather” from music in December, said he related to Elton John’s battles with substance abuse as recounted in the Rocket Man’s 2019 memoir, Me.
Advertisement
“He would be like, ‘I would just go on an ice cream binge and eat four fucking desserts until I threw it up,’ and I was like, ‘Oh, I’ve done that before,’” he said. “Or his martini binges, where he sees how many martinis he can drink. And I’m like, ‘I’ve done that before, too.’”
He went on to credit his wife of one year, Cherry Seaborn, with helping him stay focused on a healthier lifestyle.
“She exercises a lot, so I went and started going on runs with her,” he said. “She doesn’t drink that much, so I wasn’t drinking. I think that all changed things.”
The Hay House Chasing the Present Summit “explores the modern epidemic of anxiety and ways to find freedom and healing,” according to its website. In addition to Sheeran, other participants in this year’s event ― which runs July 23 to 30 ― include actor-comedian Russell Brand and globally renowned yoga instructor Kino MacGregor.
Catch the full interview with Ed Sheeran below.
Advertisement


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--UK Government Signs Deal For 60 Million Doses Of New Covid-19 Vaccine

LOADING ERROR LOADING
The UK government has signed a deal with pharmaceutical giants GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Sanofi Pasteur for 60 million doses of a potential Covid-19 vaccine.
If the vaccine proves successful, the UK could begin to vaccinate priority groups, such as frontline health and social care workers and those at increased risk from coronavirus, as early as the first half of next year, the department for business, energy & industrial strategy (BEIS) said.
Advertisement
Human clinical studies of the vaccine will begin in September followed by a phase 3 study in December.
The government has now signed deals for four different types of potential coronavirus vaccines and a total of 250 million doses.
Breaking news: We’ve reached an agreement, subject to final contract, with @GOVUK to supply 60m doses of the adjuvanted #COVID19 vaccine candidate we’re co-developing with @Sanofi, if successful in clinical trials. Learn more: https://t.co/aD6REJDHuW pic.twitter.com/MnYzd5VbHn — GSK (@GSK) July 29, 2020
Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “Our scientists and researchers are racing to find a safe and effective vaccine at a speed and scale never seen before.
Advertisement
“While this progress is truly remarkable, the fact remains that there are no guarantees.
“In the meantime, it is important that we secure early access to a diverse range of promising vaccine candidates, like GSK and Sanofi, to increase our chances of finding one that works so we can protect the public and save lives.”
Earlier this month, the government agreed deals with BioNTech, which is working with Pfizer and Valneva for access to their vaccines.
A further agreement has been signed with AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford for their jab, which could produce 100 million doses for the UK.
The vaccine produced by GSK and Sanofi, which together have the largest vaccine manufacturing capability in the world, is based on the existing DNA-based technology used to produce Sanofi’s seasonal flu vaccine
With our partner @GSK, we are cooperating with the UK government to develop a safe and effective #COVID19 vaccine and make it available to everyone as quickly as possible. #SanofiActs — Sanofi (@sanofi) July 29, 2020
Advertisement
Kate Bingham, chairwoman of the government’s Vaccines Taskforce, said: “This diversity of vaccine types is important because we do not yet know which, if any, of the different types of vaccine will prove to generate a safe and protective response to Covid-19.
“Whilst this agreement is very good news, we mustn’t be complacent or over-optimistic.
“The fact remains we may never get a vaccine and, if we do get one, we have to be prepared that it may not be a vaccine which prevents getting the virus, but rather one that reduces symptoms.”
The government said almost 72,000 people have volunteered in the past week to receive information about joining clinical studies to find a vaccine but many more are needed.
Ministers hope to get 500,000 people signed up by October.
Roger Connor, president of GSK Vaccines, said: “We believe that this adjuvanted vaccine candidate has the potential to play a significant role in overcoming the Covid-19 pandemic, both in the UK and around the world.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-07-29--Did Sophie Turner Really Name Her Baby After A Game Of Thrones Character?

LOADING ERROR LOADING
Make the most of your time indoors with a daily dose of celebrity news and guides to the best shows. Sign up to the entertainment newsletter.
On Monday, the entire kingdom rejoiced as Sophie Turner and husband Joe Jonas announced the birth of their first child. But there were also rumours going about the realm.
Advertisement
Though Turner and Jonas didn’t announce the baby’s name, multiple outlets reported that the child is a girl named Willa. Following the news, various fans and media outlets have pointed out the name may have a connection to — what else — Game of Thrones.
Did Turner, who spent eight seasons as Sansa Stark on Game of Thrones, really name her baby after an obscure reference to the show?
The internet is dark and full of errors, so a brief investigation is coming:
There are two characters supposedly named Willa in the TV version of Game of Thrones. One was a young Wildling saved at Hardhome who later arrives at Castle Black. But, of the two, this seems the least likely inspiration. All of her little screen time is sans Sansa.
Advertisement
Another Willa does share the screen with Turner. In the final season, a northern woman named Willa hits on Tormund as the Wildling laments Jaime Lannister heading off with Brienne.
“You can touch me,” Willa says in the scene. “I’m not afraid of Wildlings.”
“Maybe you should be,” Tormund replies, all flirty-like, as Sansa looks on.
The internet brought up another option — that the name Willa could be a reference to Wylla. In Season 1, when Robert Baratheon asks about Jon Snow’s mother, Ned Stark says her name is Wylla.
So, yes, there are a few possible connections; however, the two Willas were such small parts you’d have to look up their names to even be aware of them, and Sean Bean pronounces Wylla as “Why-la,” not “Will-a.”
Advertisement
To be honest, it’d be more impressive if Turner and Jonas could’ve come up with a name that had no connections to Game of Thrones at all, a feat which seems pretty impossible.
Game of Thrones has hundreds of characters (just counting the human ones), while author George R.R. Martin’s A Song Of Ice And Fire books have thousands. Beyond that, it doesn’t take much for Game of Thrones fans to break out their red string and start connecting things.
In 2014, the internet went wild after Lena Headey, who played Cersei Lannister, posted an Instagram of a heart made of stone. Book readers assumed it was spoiling the arrival of Lady Stoneheart, the zombified version of Catelyn Stark.
It wasn’t. Headey later said she was just drunk.
Another cantankerous Lannister, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, also got everyone riled up when holding up a stuffed animal duck during a promo and saying it was a spoiler. Fans connected the duck to Ser Rolly Duckfield and another book character, Young Griff. But in the end, the duck was fowl play.
Advertisement
Coster-Waldau said he was just playing a prank with a random duck. Fans made the connections all themselves.
Did Sophie Turner actually name her baby after a relatively obscure Game of Thrones character she saw laying game on Tormund? Respect to Willa, but ... probably not? Still, is there the slightest, minuscule, minor, however tiny, little(finger) of a chance that the reported baby name was an intentional reference?