washingtontimes--2020-06-16--In Vermont, an immigrant city races to tamp down an outbreak

WINOOSKI , Vt. ( AP ) - After months of having some of the fewest coronavirus cases in the country , Vermont is now trying to contain an outbreak that has hit an immigrant community in a small but densely populated city .
What health officials described as a small cluster in Winooski that they first noticed on Memorial Day has jumped to 83 cases and expanded into neighboring Burlington and other surrounding communities .
No hospitalizations or deaths have been reported .
“ It is kind of spreading pretty badly , ” said Kamal Pradhan , a Bhutanese American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of roughly 40 in the Bhutanese community who have been infected with COVID-19 .
Harka Khadka , a landlord and community organizer who lives in Winooski and is also from Bhutan , said several of his tenants from Africa also have been infected .
About 40 % of the cases have been in children .
As of Monday , only 17 % of those who tested positive showed any symptoms of COVID-19 , Vermont Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine .
said .
Levine said the state ’ s efforts to contain the outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be paying off .
“ Clearly , boxing it in is having an impact , ” Levine said Monday during Republican Gov .
Phil Scott ’ s regular virus briefing .
But he wasn ’ t ready to declare the outbreak over .
“ It is something we are still watching day-to-day , ” Levine said .
“ It ’ s way too early , knowing the incubation period of the virus and the number of people who were involved , to just put a check mark and move on.
” Compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ current outbreak is small .
But for several weeks before the Winooski outbreak , the number of new cases reported in Vermont was frequently in the low single digits , with occasional days with no positive cases .
Since late May , the number of deaths in Vermont from COVID-19 has stayed steady at 55 .
As some states have reopened , virus cases have spiked , but Levine said he didn ’ t believe Vermont ’ s opening led to the Winooski outbreak .
Vermont officials have said the outbreak was contained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” which they have declined to describe , and said spread also has occurred within households .
They see no reason to stop the state ’ s gradual reopening .
Contact tracing has been unable to identify the source of the Winooski infection .
“ We don ’ t have a definitive answer and likely never will on where that first case acquired their infection , ” Vermont Epidemiologist Patsy Kelso said last week .
Nationally , immigrant communities have been hit hard by the pandemic .
In some areas of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work at home and often live and sometimes work in crowded conditions have been especially impacted by the virus .
While the Vermont outbreak is tiny by comparison to neighborhoods in New York City or communities near Boston that have suffered greatly , state health officials say many of the people infected in Winooski live in what are described as multi-generational households .
Winooski , with a population of about 7,300 in 1.4 square miles of land , describes itself as Vermont ’ s most diverse community - a place that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the world .
Last year , the city proclaimed June 20 World Refugee Day , while recognizing its long history of welcoming refugees as new Americans .
Immigrants from Bhutan and Nepal and their advocates say language barriers and a need to work may have prevented some from staying home or knowing how best to prevent the spread or get tested .
Many are getting tested now .
Bhakta Pradhan , who owns the A & A ; Asian Market in Winooski where a lot of immigrants shop , said he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to operate the store to pay his bills , said Kamal Pradhan , translating for the brother of his sister-in-law .
“ He ’ s concerned about the disease , the outbreak , but at the same time he doesn ’ t know what to do , how to survive , ” Kamal Pradhan said in a phone interview .
Some immigrant advocates have questioned whether enough outreach was done to the immigrant community before the outbreak .
They turned out at a press conference earlier this month in Winooski held by Vermont @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayor Kristine Lott and others .
Levine said one of the prime foundations of public health is education and prevention .
Anyone who didn ’ t take the virus seriously enough is doing that now , Pradhan said .
“ I think this kind of event will initiate awareness seriously .
I think people will become serious after this one , ” he said .

WINOOSKI, Vt. (AP) - After months of having some of the fewest coronavirus cases in the country, Vermont is now trying to contain an outbreak that has hit an immigrant community in a small but densely populated city.
What health officials described as a small cluster in Winooski that they first noticed on Memorial Day has jumped to 83 cases and expanded into neighboring Burlington and other surrounding communities. No hospitalizations or deaths have been reported.
“It is kind of spreading pretty badly,” said Kamal Pradhan, a Bhutanese American, who said last week he knew of roughly 40 in the Bhutanese community who have been infected with COVID-19.
Harka Khadka, a landlord and community organizer who lives in Winooski and is also from Bhutan, said several of his tenants from Africa also have been infected.
About 40% of the cases have been in children. As of Monday, only 17% of those who tested positive showed any symptoms of COVID-19, Vermont Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine said.
Levine said the state’s efforts to contain the outbreak through aggressive testing and contact tracing appeared to be paying off.
“Clearly, boxing it in is having an impact,” Levine said Monday during Republican Gov. Phil Scott’s regular virus briefing.
But he wasn’t ready to declare the outbreak over.
“It is something we are still watching day-to-day,” Levine said. “It’s way too early, knowing the incubation period of the virus and the number of people who were involved, to just put a check mark and move on.”
Compared with larger states, Vermont’s current outbreak is small. But for several weeks before the Winooski outbreak, the number of new cases reported in Vermont was frequently in the low single digits, with occasional days with no positive cases.
Since late May, the number of deaths in Vermont from COVID-19 has stayed steady at 55.
As some states have reopened, virus cases have spiked, but Levine said he didn’t believe Vermont’s opening led to the Winooski outbreak.
Vermont officials have said the outbreak was contained in “one social network of families,” which they have declined to describe, and said spread also has occurred within households. They see no reason to stop the state’s gradual reopening.
Contact tracing has been unable to identify the source of the Winooski infection.
“We don’t have a definitive answer and likely never will on where that first case acquired their infection,” Vermont Epidemiologist Patsy Kelso said last week.
Nationally, immigrant communities have been hit hard by the pandemic. In some areas of the country, immigrants who can’t work at home and often live and sometimes work in crowded conditions have been especially impacted by the virus.
While the Vermont outbreak is tiny by comparison to neighborhoods in New York City or communities near Boston that have suffered greatly, state health officials say many of the people infected in Winooski live in what are described as multi-generational households.
Winooski, with a population of about 7,300 in 1.4 square miles of land, describes itself as Vermont’s most diverse community - a place that’s home to many non-English speaking immigrants from across the world. Last year, the city proclaimed June 20 World Refugee Day, while recognizing its long history of welcoming refugees as new Americans.
Immigrants from Bhutan and Nepal and their advocates say language barriers and a need to work may have prevented some from staying home or knowing how best to prevent the spread or get tested. Many are getting tested now.
Bhakta Pradhan, who owns the A&A Asian Market in Winooski where a lot of immigrants shop, said he’s worried about the virus but needs to operate the store to pay his bills, said Kamal Pradhan, translating for the brother of his sister-in-law.
“He’s concerned about the disease, the outbreak, but at the same time he doesn’t know what to do, how to survive,” Kamal Pradhan said in a phone interview.
Some immigrant advocates have questioned whether enough outreach was done to the immigrant community before the outbreak. They turned out at a press conference earlier this month in Winooski held by Vermont Health Commissioner Dr. Mark Levine, Winooski Mayor Kristine Lott and others.
Levine said one of the prime foundations of public health is education and prevention.
Anyone who didn’t take the virus seriously enough is doing that now, Pradhan said.
“I think this kind of event will initiate awareness seriously. I think people will become serious after this one,” he said.
___
Rathke reported from Marshfield, Vermont.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Alabama prison reports inmate virus death, 13 positive cases

ELMORE , Ala. ( AP ) - A second inmate in Alabama died over the weekend after testing positive for the new coronavirus , bringing the state inmate death toll from COVID-19 to at least four .
Robert Stewart , 80 , died at a hospital Sunday , the Alabama Department of Corrections said in a public statement .
Stewart began exhibiting symptoms of the virus June 8 and got treatment at the Staton Correctional Facility infirmary before being transferred to a local hospital where he died .
An autopsy was expected to determine Stewart ’ s official cause of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive June 10 .
Officials decided last Thursday to test all inmates in the infirmary for the coronavirus , and 13 tested positive , the ADOC stated .
They have been isolated , the statement said .
Clarence Shepherd , 80 , died Friday after showing symptoms of the virus , corrections officials said .
He had been housed at the St. Clair Correctional Facility in Springville .
State inmates William Hershell Moon , 74 ; and Dave Thomas , 66 , have also tested positive for the virus and died since the @ @ @ @ @

ELMORE, Ala. (AP) - A fourth inmate in Alabama had died after testing positive for COVID-19 as the number of virus cases in the state systems continues to rise.
Robert Stewart, 80, died at a hospital Sunday, the Alabama Department of Corrections said in a statement. Stewart began exhibiting symptoms of the virus June 8 and got treatment at the Staton Correctional Facility infirmary before being transferred to a local hospital where he died.
An autopsy was expected to determine Stewart’s official cause of death. The statement said he tested positive June 10.
Officials decided last Thursday to test all inmates in the infirmary for the coronavirus, and 13 tested positive, the Corrections Department said. They have been isolated, the statement said.
The prison system says that since the pandemic began, a total of 41 inmates and 122 staff members and contract workers have tested positive.
Clarence Shepherd, 80, died Friday after showing symptoms of the virus, corrections officials said. He had been housed at the St. Clair Correctional Facility in Springville.
State inmates William Hershell Moon, 74; and Dave Thomas, 66, have also tested positive for the virus and died since the start of the pandemic.
Inmate advocates and health experts have expressed concerns that the state’s overcrowded prisons would become a breeding ground for a deadly outbreak and urged the state to make additional changes.
The prison system has said it is taking precautions such as distributing masks to inmates and quarantining infirmaries and other areas where there have been positive cases.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in weeks. For some, especially older adults and those with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and be life-threatening.
___
Follow AP coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Joe Biden fundraiser featuring Elizabeth Warren brings in $6 million

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joseph R. Biden brought in $ 6 million at a fundraising event on Monday that featured @ @ @ @ @ Warren of Massachusetts as Mr. Biden looks to make up ground in the money game @ @ @ @ @ of the speakers , said it was the “ most successful fundraiser they ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ Biden victory fund .
Ms. Warren , whose brother died from COVID-19 , the disease @ @ @ @ @ , said the ongoing health outbreak has been made worse by President Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ The Biden campaign and the Democratic National Committee brought in more than $ 80 million @ @ @ @ @ ’ s biggest monthly total of the cycle — though Mr. Trump ’ s campaign @ @ @ @ @ a significant cash on hand edge throughout the race .

Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joseph R. Biden brought in $6 million at a fundraising event on Monday that featured former 2020 rival Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts as Mr. Biden looks to make up ground in the money game.
Maya Rupert, one of the speakers, said it was the “most successful fundraiser they’ve ever had” for the Biden victory fund.
Ms. Warren, whose brother died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, said the ongoing health outbreak has been made worse by President Trump’s “ignorance and incompetence.”
The Biden campaign and the Democratic National Committee brought in more than $80 million last month — the operation’s biggest monthly total of the cycle — though Mr. Trump’s campaign and associated committees have held a significant cash on hand edge throughout the race.
• David Sherfinski can be reached at dsherfinski@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Millennial Money: Unlock savings with credit card benefits

A few days after buying a sweater at Macy ’ s , Erin Chisman returned to get the same one in a different color , only to realize it was 50 % off .
Upon seeing the new price tag , the Wisconsin-based business owner was determined to save .
So she turned to the cards in her wallet .
“ I looked at my terms and I noticed that it did have price protection , ” she says .
“ Within three days , I had a check in the mail ” for the $ 30 difference .
Price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difference of a lower advertised price , has largely vanished from many credit cards in recent years - but plenty of other side perks remain , and your card may even have added some new ones .
Here ’ s what to know about these benefits so you don ’ t miss out .
BENEFITS ARE NOT ALL CREATED EQUAL If you don ’ t know all the perks your card offers , you ’ re not alone .
Only 36 % of cardholders reported fully understanding their supplementary benefits , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Card Satisfaction Study .
It can be hard to keep track because offerings vary widely , depending on both the credit card ’ s issuing bank ( American Express , Chase , Citi , etc . )
and , often , the payment network on which it runs ( Visa , Mastercard , AmEx or Discover ) .
But if you spend some time with your card ’ s terms and conditions - or with a customer service rep online or by phone - you can learn your card ’ s benefits and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these examples and the potential savings they offer .
A credit card ’ s cell phone protection benefit can cover a stolen or damaged cell phone up to several hundred dollars per claim .
To qualify , you ’ ll have to pay the monthly phone bill with the eligible card , and an out-of-pocket deductible typically applies .
Chisman relies on cell phone protection offered through her business credit card to avoid paying the cell phone company for coverage on four employee phones at her music school .
“ The savings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and $ 40 per month , ” she says .
If your card ’ s coverage is primary , it means you don ’ t have to involve your own insurer .
If it ’ s secondary , it may supplement what your insurer doesn ’ t cover .
A card ’ s extended warranty protection may prolong an original manufacturer ’ s warranty , sometimes a year or longer , depending on the terms .
Regardless of your purchase , the savings can add up .
According to a 2018 survey by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an extended warranty on a major appliance was $ 131 .
For a small appliance , it was $ 19 , but either way it ’ s money that your credit card can save you .
Some cards have stopped offering this benefit in recent years , but those that have it usually cover what ’ s included in the original manufacturer ’ s warranty .
To qualify , the product must be purchased with the eligible card .
Exclusions may apply for some products like cars and computer software .
When a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this credit card benefit may refund you the amount of the purchase .
Only certain products qualify , and you ’ ll have to act within a certain window to file a claim .
Shipping the item to an assigned address and paying for the postage out of pocket may be required .
Read the fine print to determine whether it ’ s worth it for you .
It ’ s disappointing when a new item is damaged or stolen , but less so if you ’ ve paid for it with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This benefit has also been phased out by some issuers , but it ’ s not extinct .
Depending on the terms , the item will be replaced or repaired , or you ’ ll be reimbursed up to several hundreds of dollars per claim if filed within the required time frame .
The process generally requires documentation , which may include a credit card statement , a receipt and other information .
Depending on your credit card issuer , you might also qualify for exclusive cardholder discounts .
Some Mastercard World Elite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 5 off every Postmates purchase of $ 25 or more ( not including delivery fees , tips and taxes ) .
So make sure you look beyond just your credit card ’ s rewards rate and fully explore all the benefits that can help you save money .
This article originally appeared on the personal finance website NerdWallet .
Melissa Lambarena is a writer at NerdWallet .
Email : [ email protected ] Twitter : @ lissalambarena .
NerdWallet : Visa credit cards vs. Mastercard : Does it make a difference ?
@ @ @

A few days after buying a sweater at Macy’s, Erin Chisman returned to get the same one in a different color, only to realize it was 50% off. Upon seeing the new price tag, the Wisconsin-based business owner was determined to save.
So she turned to the cards in her wallet. “I looked at my terms and I noticed that it did have price protection,” she says. “Within three days, I had a check in the mail” for the $30 difference.
Price protection, a benefit that refunds the difference of a lower advertised price, has largely vanished from many credit cards in recent years - but plenty of other side perks remain, and your card may even have added some new ones. Here’s what to know about these benefits so you don’t miss out.
BENEFITS ARE NOT ALL CREATED EQUAL
If you don’t know all the perks your card offers, you’re not alone. Only 36% of cardholders reported fully understanding their supplementary benefits, according to J.D. Power’s 2019 Credit Card Satisfaction Study.
It can be hard to keep track because offerings vary widely, depending on both the credit card’s issuing bank (American Express, Chase, Citi, etc.) and, often, the payment network on which it runs ( Visa, Mastercard, AmEx or Discover).
But if you spend some time with your card’s terms and conditions - or with a customer service rep online or by phone - you can learn your card’s benefits and how they can help. Consider some of these examples and the potential savings they offer.
CELL PHONE PROTECTION
A credit card’s cell phone protection benefit can cover a stolen or damaged cell phone up to several hundred dollars per claim. To qualify, you’ll have to pay the monthly phone bill with the eligible card, and an out-of-pocket deductible typically applies.
Chisman relies on cell phone protection offered through her business credit card to avoid paying the cell phone company for coverage on four employee phones at her music school. “The savings there (are) between $20 and $40 per month,” she says.
If your card’s coverage is primary, it means you don’t have to involve your own insurer. If it’s secondary, it may supplement what your insurer doesn’t cover.
EXTENDED WARRANTY PROTECTION
A card’s extended warranty protection may prolong an original manufacturer’s warranty, sometimes a year or longer, depending on the terms. Regardless of your purchase, the savings can add up.
According to a 2018 survey by Consumer Reports, the median price for an extended warranty on a major appliance was $131. For a small appliance, it was $19, but either way it’s money that your credit card can save you.
Some cards have stopped offering this benefit in recent years, but those that have it usually cover what’s included in the original manufacturer’s warranty. To qualify, the product must be purchased with the eligible card. Exclusions may apply for some products like cars and computer software.
RETURN PROTECTION
When a retailer’s return policy fails, this credit card benefit may refund you the amount of the purchase. Only certain products qualify, and you’ll have to act within a certain window to file a claim.
Shipping the item to an assigned address and paying for the postage out of pocket may be required. Read the fine print to determine whether it’s worth it for you.
PURCHASE PROTECTION
It’s disappointing when a new item is damaged or stolen, but less so if you’ve paid for it with a credit card that offers purchase protection. This benefit has also been phased out by some issuers, but it’s not extinct.
Depending on the terms, the item will be replaced or repaired, or you’ll be reimbursed up to several hundreds of dollars per claim if filed within the required time frame.
The process generally requires documentation, which may include a credit card statement, a receipt and other information.
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS
Depending on your credit card issuer, you might also qualify for exclusive cardholder discounts. Some Mastercard World Elite cardholders, for example, can get $5 off every Postmates purchase of $25 or more (not including delivery fees, tips and taxes).
And eligible American Express credit cards provide a complimentary ShopRunner membership that offers free two-day shipping. Terms apply.
So make sure you look beyond just your credit card’s rewards rate and fully explore all the benefits that can help you save money.
_______________________________-
This article originally appeared on the personal finance website NerdWallet. Melissa Lambarena is a writer at NerdWallet. Email: mlambarena@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @lissalambarena.
RELATED LINKS:
NerdWallet: Visa credit cards vs. Mastercard: Does it make a difference? http://bit.ly/nerdwallet-visa-mastercard


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--US retail sales likely recovered partly from record plunge

BALTIMORE ( AP ) - U.S. retail sales likely recovered somewhat last month as the economy increasingly reopened from shutdowns @ @ @ @ @ more shoppers felt confident enough to spend .
The Commerce Department is expected to report @ @ @ @ @ 9 % from April to May , according to economists surveyed by the data provider @ @ @ @ @ a partial comeback after a 16.4 % month-to-month plunge in April , the worst such @ @ @ @ @ to 1992 , and an 8.3 % drop in March .
Still , the recession @ @ @ @ @ to depress overall retail spending .
It has also hastened a reshaping of how and @ @ @ @ @ have increasingly shifted away from physical stores and toward online shopping , and fewer malls @ @ @ @ @ survive .
Though some major chains like Macy ’ s and American Eagle have already @ @ @ @ @ , many local retailers and restaurants are struggling .

BALTIMORE (AP) - U.S. retail sales likely recovered somewhat last month as the economy increasingly reopened from shutdowns caused by the coronavirus and more shoppers felt confident enough to spend.
The Commerce Department is expected to report Tuesday that retail purchases climbed 9% from April to May, according to economists surveyed by the data provider FactSet. This would mark a partial comeback after a 16.4% month-to-month plunge in April, the worst such drop on records going back to 1992, and an 8.3% drop in March.
Still, the recession caused by the pandemic continues to depress overall retail spending. It has also hastened a reshaping of how and where Americans shop. Consumers have increasingly shifted away from physical stores and toward online shopping, and fewer malls and small retailers will likely survive.
Though some major chains like Macy’s and American Eagle have already reported solid bounce-backs in sales, many local retailers and restaurants are struggling.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Police find no trace of woman they heard scream for help

FARGO , N.D. ( AP ) - Police in Fargo searched a heavily wooded area early Tuesday after hearing a @ @ @ @ @ Officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle in the Riviera Heights mobile home @ @ @ @ @ The driver fled with a female passenger as officers arrived to investigate .
Sgt .
@ @ @ @ @ as officers searched for the vehicle , they heard a woman screaming for help in @ @ @ @ @ River , not far from where the vehicle had been stolen .
Police called in @ @ @ @ @ drone to do an aerial search , but found no trace of the woman , @ @ @ @ @ vehicle .
The search was called off about 2:30 a.m. Police continue to investigate .

FARGO, N.D. (AP) - Police in Fargo searched a heavily wooded area early Tuesday after hearing a woman screaming for help.
Officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle in the Riviera Heights mobile home park about 12:30 a.m. The driver fled with a female passenger as officers arrived to investigate.
Sgt. Jerrod Wagner tells KFGO that as officers searched for the vehicle, they heard a woman screaming for help in some woods near the Red River, not far from where the vehicle had been stolen.
Police called in the fire department’s drone to do an aerial search, but found no trace of the woman, the male driver or stolen vehicle. The search was called off about 2:30 a.m. Police continue to investigate.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--UVA changes athletics logo design linked with slavery

CHARLOTTESVILLE , Va. ( AP ) - The University of Virginia is changing the logos it uses for its athletics teams just two months after they were unveiled after criticism that a design element referred to the school ’ s history with slavery .
Fans raised objections to the serpentine curves put on the handles of the sabres below the V for Virginia and on the Cavalier shield .
They were meant to mimic “ the design of the serpentine walls ” that long stood on the campus , according to a statement from the school ’ s athletics department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said she decided to change the logos after she was “ made aware of the negative connotation between the serpentine walls and slavery.
” Historians pointed out that former President Thomas Jefferson designed the original eight-foot-high walls to muffle the sounds of slaves and hide them from public view .
“ There was no intent to cause harm , but we did , and for that I apologize to those who bear the pain of slavery in our history , ” Williams said .
The school has redesigned the detail in the logos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will replace it with another version that has straight-line handles , Williams added .

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - The University of Virginia is changing the logos it uses for its athletics teams just two months after they were unveiled after criticism that a design element referred to the school’s history with slavery.
Fans raised objections to the serpentine curves put on the handles of the sabres below the V for Virginia and on the Cavalier shield. They were meant to mimic “the design of the serpentine walls” that long stood on the campus, according to a statement from the school’s athletics department on Monday.
Athletic Director Carla Williams said she decided to change the logos after she was “made aware of the negative connotation between the serpentine walls and slavery.” Historians pointed out that former President Thomas Jefferson designed the original eight-foot-high walls to muffle the sounds of slaves and hide them from public view.
“There was no intent to cause harm, but we did, and for that I apologize to those who bear the pain of slavery in our history,” Williams said.
The school has redesigned the detail in the logos to remove the curved handles, and will replace it with another version that has straight-line handles, Williams added.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Turkey makes masks compulsory in 42 provinces after uptick

ANKARA , Turkey ( AP ) - Turkey has made the wearing of face masks mandatory in five more provinces , following an uptick in COVID-19 cases .
Health Minister Fahrettin Koca tweeted early Tuesday that the wearing of masks is now compulsory in 42 of Turkey ’ s 81 provinces .
In the remaining provinces , residents are required to wear masks on public transportation and in shops and malls , and are being advised to wear masks and keep to social distancing practices elsewhere .
Koca tweeted : “ we can not struggle against the virus without masks.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the daily number of infections after the government authorized cafes , restaurants , gyms , parks , beaches and museums to reopen , lifted inter-city travel restrictions and eased stay-at-home orders for the elderly and young at the start of June .
The daily number of infections climbed to above 1,500 in the past five days after hovering around 800-900 previously .
The country has registered a total of 179,831 cases and 4,825 deaths .
Pinar Oktay , a member of Turkey ’ s scientific advisory body spoke of the possibility of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The increase is being monitored very carefully , ” Oktay told HaberTurk news channel .
“ If the increase continues in this way , we may have to reimpose some measures .
In the eastern province of Ardahan , the number of infections jumped from just three to 18 following the lifting of travel restrictions and the arrival from travelers from other regions , Gov .
Mustafa Masatli said Monday .
A village in the central province of Konya was placed under quarantine after 22 people were infected following a funeral wake @ @ @ @ @

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Turkey has made the wearing of face masks mandatory in five more provinces, following an uptick in COVID-19 cases.
Health Minister Fahrettin Koca tweeted early Tuesday that the wearing of masks is now compulsory in 42 of Turkey’s 81 provinces.
In the remaining provinces, residents are required to wear masks on public transportation and in shops and malls, and are being advised to wear masks and keep to social distancing practices elsewhere.
Koca tweeted: “we cannot struggle against the virus without masks.”
Turkey saw an upward trend in the daily number of infections after the government authorized cafes, restaurants, gyms, parks, beaches and museums to reopen, lifted inter-city travel restrictions and eased stay-at-home orders for the elderly and young at the start of June.
The daily number of infections rose steadily to above 1,500 on Sunday and Monday after hovering around 800 to 900 last week.
On Tuesday, Koca reported 1,467 new infections - 125 fewer than on Monday. The minister also reported 17 deaths, one fewer than the previous day. He reported a rise in the number of patients in intensive care and those who have been intubated.
Turkey now has 181,298 COVID-19 infections and 4,842 deaths.
Pinar Okyay, a member of Turkey’s scientific advisory body, said the resumption of some lockdown measures was possible.
“The increase is being monitored very carefully,” Okyay told HaberTurk news channel. “If the increase continues in this way, we may have to reimpose some measures.”
In the eastern province of Ardahan, the number of infections jumped from just three to 18 following the lifting of travel restrictions and the arrival from travelers from other regions, Gov. Mustafa Masatli said Monday.
A village in the central province of Konya was placed under quarantine after 22 people were infected following a funeral wake, Hurriyet newspaper reported.
___
Follow AP pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--British Academy Film Awards postpones ceremony by 2 months

LONDON ( AP ) - Next year ’ s British Academy Film Awards have been postponed by two months , organizers said Tuesday .
The move follows a decision by Hollywood ’ s film academy to shift the 2021 Oscars from February to April because of the coronavirus pandemic .
The British Academy said the awards will be held on April 11 , rather than the previously announced Feb. 14 .
The academy has also changed eligibility rules so that films whose theatrical releases were curtailed or switched to online-only releases will be eligible for consideration .
Film committee chair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ give all films the best possible chance to be released and considered properly.
” Movie theaters in Britain have been closed since March 20 as part of a nationwide lockdown to slow the spread of COVID-19 .
The date of the 2022 awards , known as BAFTAs , is being reviewed .
On Monday , the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the ABC Television Network announced that the 93rd Academy Awards will now be held April 25 , 2021 , eight weeks later than originally planned because of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry .
It ’ s the fourth postponement in Oscars history .
The British awards are usual held a week or two before the Oscars and have become an important awards-season staging post .

LONDON (AP) - Next year’s British Academy Film Awards have been postponed by two months, organizers said Tuesday. The move follows a decision by Hollywood’s film academy to shift the 2021 Oscars from February to April because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The British Academy said the awards will be held on April 11, rather than the previously announced Feb. 14. The academy has also changed eligibility rules so that films whose theatrical releases were curtailed or switched to online-only releases will be eligible for consideration.
Film committee chair Marc Samuelson said the new date would “give all films the best possible chance to be released and considered properly.”
Movie theaters in Britain have been closed since March 20 as part of a nationwide lockdown to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The date of the 2022 awards, known as BAFTAs, is being reviewed.
On Monday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the ABC Television Network announced that the 93rd Academy Awards will now be held April 25, 2021, eight weeks later than originally planned because of the pandemic’s effects on the movie industry. It’s the fourth postponement in Oscars history.
The British awards are usual held a week or two before the Oscars and have become an important awards-season staging post.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--EU authorities open two Apple antitrust investigations

LONDON ( AP ) - European Union regulators began two antitrust investigations on Tuesday into Apple ’ s mobile app store and payment platform over concerns its practices distort competition , opening a new front in the EU ’ s battle against the dominance of big tech companies .
The EU ’ s executive Commission said it launched the formal investigations over concerns that Apple ’ s way of doing business hurts consumers by limiting choice and innovation and keeping prices high .
It ’ s looking into Apple Pay over allegations that the company refuses access to the payment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it limits access to the “ tap and go ” function on iPhones .
The Commission opened a second investigation into the mobile App Store over concerns Apple forces developers to use the company ’ s own in-app purchasing system , which charges them a 30 % commission , and restricts them from letting iPhone and iPad users know about other ways to pay for digital services like music subscriptions .
The investigation follows complaints from music streaming service Spotify and an e-book distributor on the impact of the App Store ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vice President Margrethe Vestager said “ it appears that Apple obtained a ‘ gatekeeper ’ role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple ’ s popular devices.
” It also appeared that Apple set conditions on how Apple Pay should be used in merchants ’ apps and websites , she said .
“ It is important that Apple ’ s measures do not deny consumers the benefits of new payment technologies , ” she added , noting that the coronavirus crisis has accelerated the growth in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ payments or “ contactless ” payments in store .
“ It ’ s disappointing the European Commission is advancing baseless complaints from a handful of companies who simply want a free ride , and don ’ t want to play by the same rules as everyone else , ” Apple said in a statement .
“ We don ’ t think that ’ s right - we want to maintain a level playing field where anyone with determination and a great idea can succeed.
” Vestager , the EU ’ s competition commissioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the world ’ s toughest technology regulators .
Four years ago she ordered Apple to pay 13 billion euros ( $ 15 billion ) in back taxes linked to a deal it made with the Irish government - a ruling that the company is challenging .
She has also led antitrust investigations into other Silicon Valley giants including Google , which resulted in multibillion dollar fines .
Apple has been working to expand revenue in its services business to offset slowing growth from sales of iPhones and other hardware , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dominance has made it a fresh target for regulators .

LONDON (AP) - European Union regulators opened two investigations on Tuesday into Apple’s mobile app store and payment platform over concerns its practices distort competition, opening a new front in the EU’s battle against the dominance of big tech companies.
The EU’s executive Commission said it formally launched the investigations over concerns that Apple’s way of doing business hurts consumers by limiting choice and innovation and keeping prices high. Apple dismissed the complaints as “baseless.”
The commission is examining whether Apple Pay’s rules require online shops to make it the preferred or default option, effectively shutting out rival payment systems. It’s also investigating concerns that it limits access for rival payment systems to the “tap and go” wireless function on iPhones.
The Commission opened a second investigation into the App Store over concerns Apple forces developers to use the company’s own in-app purchasing system, which charges them a 30% commission, and restricts them from telling iPhone and iPad users about other ways to pay for digital services like music subscriptions. The investigation follows complaints from music streaming service Spotify and an e-book distributor on the impact of the App Store’s rules on competition.
“It appears that Apple obtained a ‘gatekeeper’ role when it comes to the distribution of apps and content to users of Apple’s popular devices,” EU Executive Vice President Margrethe Vestager said. Regulators want to make sure Apple’s practices don’t affect competition in markets where it competes with other app makers, she said, citing its music streaming service and e-book services.
It’s also “important that Apple’s measures do not deny consumers the benefits of new payment technologies, including better choice, quality, innovation and competitive prices,” she said. Vestager noted that the coronavirus crisis has accelerated the growth in mobile payments as more people make online payments or “contactless” payments in stores.
Apple rejected the allegations, saying it has created new products and services in the world’s most competitive markets.
“We follow the law in everything we do and we embrace competition at every stage because we believe it pushes us to deliver even better results,” the company said in a statement.
“It’s disappointing the European Commission is advancing baseless complaints from a handful of companies who simply want a free ride, and don’t want to play by the same rules as everyone else,” it said.
Spotify welcomed the EU’s investigation, accusing Apple of creating an “unlevel playing field” and depriving consumers of choice. It refuses to use Apple’s payments system, which it says makes its subscriptions more expensive than Apple Music’s.
Vestager, the EU’s competition commissioner, has earned a reputation as one of the world’s toughest technology regulators. Four years ago she ordered Apple to pay 13 billion euros ($15 billion) in back taxes linked to a deal it made with the Irish government - a ruling that the company is challenging. She has also led antitrust investigations into other Silicon Valley giants including Google, which resulted in multibillion dollar fines.
Apple is perhaps best known for the iPhone but sales have been slowing lately as the smartphone market hits a plateau and the EU commission’s focus on Apple Pay and the App Store also highlights the tech giant’s efforts to expand revenue in its services business to offset the weakness in hardware.
___
Follow Kelvin Chan at twitter.com/chanman


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Swimmers face rip current risk along New Jersey shore

TRENTON , N.J. ( AP ) - Swimmers at the New Jersey shore on Tuesday were advised to be cautious @ @ @ @ @ high risk for rip currents , the National Weather Service said .
The currents can @ @ @ @ @ sea .
If caught in a rip current , swimmers should float and try to @ @ @ @ @ the shoreline , the weather service said .
If unable to get free from the @ @ @ @ @ the shore and wave for help .

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - Swimmers at the New Jersey shore on Tuesday were advised to be cautious because of there was a high risk for rip currents, the National Weather Service said.
The currents can quickly pull swimmers out to sea.
Swimmers are advised to obey lifeguards.
If caught in a rip current, swimmers should float and try to swim in the direction following the shoreline, the weather service said.
If unable to get free from the current, swimmers should face the shore and wave for help.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--5 Things to Know for Today

5 Things to Know for Today

Your daily look at late-breaking news , upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today : 1 .
NORTH KOREA BLOWS UP INTER-KOREA LIAISON OFFICE The demolition of the building is largely symbolic , but it ’ s still likely the most provocative thing Pyongyang has done since it entered nuclear diplomacy in 2018 .
2 .
RAYSHARD BROOKS ’ DEATH FILLED WITH ‘ WHAT IFS ’ Law enforcement experts debate if Atlanta police could have done something to avoid using deadly force or even let him walk home rather than arrest him for intoxication .
3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ third neighborhood in Beijing has been locked down as Chinese authorities rush to prevent the spread of a new coronavirus outbreak .
4 .
‘ I THINK SHE ’ S TOTALLY STILL VIABLE ’ Some black leaders say Elizabeth Warren ’ s progressive politics , economic populism and specific policy proposals make her an ideal running mate for Joe Biden .
5 .
GOODELL ENCOURAGES TEAMS TO SIGN KAEPERNICK The NFL commissioner would like to see the 32-year old quarterback , who began protesting racial injustice in 2016 by kneeling for the national @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:
1. NORTH KOREA BLOWS UP INTER-KOREA LIAISON OFFICE The demolition of the building is largely symbolic, but it’s still likely the most provocative thing Pyongyang has done since it entered nuclear diplomacy in 2018.
2. RAYSHARD BROOKS’ DEATH FILLED WITH ‘WHAT IFS’ Law enforcement experts debate if Atlanta police could have done something to avoid using deadly force or even let him walk home rather than arrest him for intoxication.
3. VIRUS SEES RESURGENCE IN CHINA A third neighborhood in Beijing has been locked down as Chinese authorities rush to prevent the spread of a new coronavirus outbreak.
4. ‘I THINK SHE’S TOTALLY STILL VIABLE’ Some black leaders say Elizabeth Warren’s progressive politics, economic populism and specific policy proposals make her an ideal running mate for Joe Biden.
5. GOODELL ENCOURAGES TEAMS TO SIGN KAEPERNICK The NFL commissioner would like to see the 32-year old quarterback, who began protesting racial injustice in 2016 by kneeling for the national anthem, back in the league.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--US casinos push for cashless gambling payments, citing virus

ATLANTIC CITY , N.J. ( AP ) - The American casino industry wants gambling regulators to make it easier to adopt cashless payment transactions on the casino floor , citing a desire to help customers avoid handling money during the coronavirus outbreak .
In a report released Tuesday , the American Gaming Association , the gambling industry ’ s national trade group , called on regulators in states where gambling is allowed to update their rules or laws to integrate cashless options for gamblers .
The push follows an 18-month study of the issue by both commercial and tribal casinos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pave the way for cashless transactions on a wider basis .
Presently , a small number of casinos use such payments , which include debit or credit cards , as well as apps like Apple Pay , Google Pay , and PayPal .
Wider acceptance of these options has long been a goal of the gambling industry .
“ Advancing opportunities for digital payments has been one of our top priorities since my first day at the AGA , ” said Bill Miller , the gambling group ’ s president and CEO .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ role as a modern , 21st century industry and bolsters our already rigorous regulatory and responsible gaming measures .
The COVID-19 pandemic made it all the more important to advance our efforts to provide customers with the payment choice they are more comfortable with and have increasingly come to expect in their daily lives.
” So far , there has not been widespread adoption of digital payment options at casinos or other gambling facilities in the U.S. Industry executives say this is due to several factors including limits imposed by state legislators or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Nevada and some tribal casinos across the U.S. have digital options , but the technology is a new concept in many places .
The Nevada Gaming Commission has a hearing scheduled for June 25 where it is expected to accept the state Gaming Control Board ’ s recommendation for amendments to state regulations that would streamline the approval and testing process for modern payment methods .
David Rebuck , director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement , said cashless transactions are already legal , adding , “ We await products @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approval to use on site.
” Nevada gambling regulators are “ open to looking at new ways of how technology , including cashless wagering , can help attract new customers and be beneficial for not only the industry but even for responsible gaming measures as well , ” said Sandra Douglass Morgan , chairwoman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board .
Among the benefits of cashless transactions cited by the AGA are the ability for gamblers to more easily follow and set limits on their gambling activity , and cutting down on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to file with the government regarding some customer transactions at the casino .
The continued spread of the coronavirus in parts of the country as many casinos reopen after months of being idled due is another reason the industry wants to ramp up cashless payments quickly .

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) - The American casino industry wants gambling regulators to make it easier to adopt cashless payment transactions on the casino floor, citing a desire to help customers avoid handling money during the coronavirus outbreak.
In a report released Tuesday, the American Gaming Association, the gambling industry’s national trade group, called on regulators in states where gambling is allowed to update their rules or laws to integrate cashless options for gamblers.
The push follows an 18-month study of the issue by both commercial and tribal casinos, and equipment suppliers to try to pave the way for cashless transactions on a wider basis.
Presently, a small number of casinos use such payments, which include debit or credit cards, as well as apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Wider acceptance of these options has long been a goal of the gambling industry.
“Advancing opportunities for digital payments has been one of our top priorities since my first day at the AGA,” said Bill Miller, the gambling group’s president and CEO. “It aligns with gaming’s role as a modern, 21st century industry and bolsters our already rigorous regulatory and responsible gaming measures. The COVID-19 pandemic made it all the more important to advance our efforts to provide customers with the payment choice they are more comfortable with and have increasingly come to expect in their daily lives.”
Health officials say the coronavirus can survive on paper currency, but that risk is low compared to person-to-person spread, which is the main way people get infected. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says using touchless payment methods is a good idea where possible.
So far, there has not been widespread adoption of digital payment options at casinos or other gambling facilities in the U.S. Industry executives say this is due to several factors including limits imposed by state legislators or gambling regulators.
A handful of casinos in Nevada and some tribal casinos across the U.S. have digital options, but the technology is a new concept in many places.
The Nevada Gaming Commission has a hearing scheduled for June 25 where it is expected to accept the state Gaming Control Board’s recommendation for amendments to state regulations that would streamline the approval and testing process for modern payment methods.
David Rebuck, director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, said cashless transactions are already legal, adding, “We await products to be submitted by the casinos for approval to use on site.”
Nevada gambling regulators are “open to looking at new ways of how technology, including cashless wagering, can help attract new customers and be beneficial for not only the industry but even for responsible gaming measures as well,” said Sandra Douglass Morgan, chairwoman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
Among the benefits of cashless transactions cited by the AGA are the ability for gamblers to more easily follow and set limits on their gambling activity, and cutting down on the number of currency transaction reports that casinos have to file with the government regarding some customer transactions at the casino.
The continued spread of the coronavirus in parts of the country as many casinos reopen after months of being idled due is another reason the industry wants to ramp up cashless payments quickly.
___
Follow Wayne Parry at http://twitter.com/WayneParryAC


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--EU transport 'megaprojects' are behind schedule, over budget

BRUSSELS ( AP ) - The European Union ’ s external auditor says poor coordination between member states is severely delaying the development of transports projects worth billions euros aimed at improving connections between national networks across the continent .
To facilitate transit , boost the bloc ’ s economy and develop greener transport modes , the EU ’ s member states agreed in 2013 to have the development of a core network ready by 2030 , along nine identified major corridors .
But according to a report released Tuesday by the European Court of Auditors , six of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlikely to be fully functional by that deadline .
The auditors focused on the construction of eight so-called “ megaprojects ” including four railways , one motorway , one waterway and two multi-mode connections worth 54 billion euros ( $ 61.2 billion ) - including 7.5 billion euros ( $ 8.5 billion ) from the EU - linking the transport networks of 13 countries .
They came to the conclusion that all them were delayed on average by 11 years .
They said that “ inefficient implementation ” as well as changes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years have caused the cost to rise by more than 47 % , or 17 billion euros ( $ 19.2 billion ) .
In Romania , for example , one stretch of a new motorway was unused and two sections wrongly connected , wasting the investment , the auditors said .
According to the auditors , the main problem is a lack of coordination between countries that don ’ t share the same investment priorities .
They also said EU countries were potentially over-optimistic in their initial forecasts , and warned that some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Taking the example of the high speed railway project between Turin , Italy , and Lyon , France , audit coordinator Oskar Herics told journalists that forecasts for freight traffic to grow eight-fold by 2025 have been likely overestimated .
“ Timely establishment of the core ( transport ) corridors is critical to the achievement of EU policy goals , supporting growth and jobs and tackling climate change , ” Herics said .
“ Additional efforts should be made to speed up the finalisation of many of the EU ’ s flagship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the EU commission , the bloc ’ s executive arm , had not done enough to ensure that the goals would be enforced in member countries .
According to the auditors , the Commission has already paid 3.4 billion euros out of the EU money made available for the projects , In its response to the report , the Commission acknowledged there is a high risk some of the projects will not operate at full capacity by 2030 , but that most of them will be operational by that time .

BRUSSELS (AP) - The European Union’s external auditor says poor coordination between member states is severely delaying the development of transports projects worth billions euros aimed at improving connections between national networks across the continent.
To facilitate transit, boost the bloc’s economy and develop greener transport modes, the EU’s member states agreed in 2013 to have the development of a core network ready by 2030, along nine identified major corridors. But according to a report released Tuesday by the European Court of Auditors, six of the eight projects that have been scrutinized are unlikely to be fully functional by that deadline.
The auditors focused on the construction of eight so-called “megaprojects” including four railways, one motorway, one waterway and two multi-mode connections worth 54 billion euros ($61.2 billion) - including 7.5 billion euros ($8.5 billion) from the EU - linking the transport networks of 13 countries.
They came to the conclusion that all them were delayed on average by 11 years. They said that “inefficient implementation” as well as changes in the design of the projects over the years have caused the cost to rise by more than 47%, or 17 billion euros ($19.2 billion).
In Romania, for example, one stretch of a new motorway was unused and two sections wrongly connected, wasting the investment, the auditors said.
According to the auditors, the main problem is a lack of coordination between countries that don’t share the same investment priorities. They also said EU countries were potentially over-optimistic in their initial forecasts, and warned that some projects could turn out to be unviable.
Taking the example of the high speed railway project between Turin, Italy, and Lyon, France, audit coordinator Oskar Herics told journalists that forecasts for freight traffic to grow eight-fold by 2025 have been likely overestimated.
“Timely establishment of the core (transport) corridors is critical to the achievement of EU policy goals, supporting growth and jobs and tackling climate change,” Herics said. “Additional efforts should be made to speed up the finalisation of many of the EU’s flagship transport megaprojects.”
The auditors also noted that the EU commission, the bloc’s executive arm, had not done enough to ensure that the goals would be enforced in member countries. According to the auditors, the Commission has already paid 3.4 billion euros out of the EU money made available for the projects,
In its response to the report, the Commission acknowledged there is a high risk some of the projects will not operate at full capacity by 2030, but that most of them will be operational by that time.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Police: 3 gun down man in McKeesport

Police: 3 gun down man in McKeesport

MCKEESPORT , Pa. ( AP ) - Police were trying to find suspects after three people ambushed and gunned down @ @ @ @ @ Police said .
Surveillance video showed George Brosey , 54 , was walking up the @ @ @ @ @ Crawford Village when he was approached by a male and shot late Monday night , @ @ @ @ @ males standing nearby also opened fire , authorities said .
The victim was shot multiple @ @ @ @ @ scene .
Authorities do not know why the man was targeted .
No arrests have @ @ @

MCKEESPORT, Pa. (AP) - Police were trying to find suspects after three people ambushed and gunned down a man, Allegheny County Police said.
Surveillance video showed George Brosey, 54, was walking up the stoop of an acquaintance at Crawford Village when he was approached by a male and shot late Monday night, police said. Two other males standing nearby also opened fire, authorities said.
The victim was shot multiple times and died at the scene.
Authorities do not know why the man was targeted.
No arrests have been made.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--What are the potential long-term effects of having COVID-19?

What are the potential long-term effects of having COVID-19 ?
It ’ s hard to say exactly , because the coronavirus is still so new that scientists don ’ t know much about long-term effects .
The best evidence comes from patients themselves , and some experience a variety of symptoms long after their infections have cleared .
Most people recover within a few weeks .
For people who experience longer-term effects , the most common issues are bouts of exhaustion , headaches , anxiety and muscle aches that can last for at least several more weeks .
Patients who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ventilators or kidney dialysis , can experience more serious issues .
Lung scarring can occur in people who developed pneumonia .
Heart inflammation , irregular heartbeats , and worsening kidney and liver function have been reported as well .
However , it ’ s too soon to know if those could be permanent problems .
Survivors who had long intensive-care stays sometimes need oxygen therapy or dialysis at home .
Some also develop a condition called post-intensive care syndrome , which can include persistent muscle weakness and memory problems .
That can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be related to sedation and prolonged bed confinement during hospitalization .
Blood clots can also develop during and after COVID-19 infections , occasionally causing strokes .
Even in less serious cases , blood thinners are prescribed and can require lifestyle changes to reduce risks of bleeding .
Most symptoms appear to eventually go away , said Dr. Thomas McGinn of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research in New York , who was involved in one of the largest U.S. studies of COVID-19 patients .
“ It ’ s just a matter of when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer than others , ” McGinn said .
The AP is answering your questions about the coronavirus in this series .
Submit them at : [ email protected ] - Is it safe to go swimming during the coronavirus pandemic ?
- What is herd immunity and could it work with COVID-19 ?

What are the potential long-term effects of having COVID-19?
It’s hard to say exactly, because the coronavirus is still so new that scientists don’t know much about long-term effects. The best evidence comes from patients themselves, and some experience a variety of symptoms long after their infections have cleared.
Most people recover within a few weeks. For people who experience longer-term effects, the most common issues are bouts of exhaustion, headaches, anxiety and muscle aches that can last for at least several more weeks.
Patients who required intensive care, including those put on ventilators or kidney dialysis, can experience more serious issues.
Lung scarring can occur in people who developed pneumonia. Heart inflammation, irregular heartbeats, and worsening kidney and liver function have been reported as well. However, it’s too soon to know if those could be permanent problems.
Survivors who had long intensive-care stays sometimes need oxygen therapy or dialysis at home. Some also develop a condition called post-intensive care syndrome, which can include persistent muscle weakness and memory problems. That can happen after any critical illness and may be related to sedation and prolonged bed confinement during hospitalization.
Blood clots can also develop during and after COVID-19 infections, occasionally causing strokes. Even in less serious cases, blood thinners are prescribed and can require lifestyle changes to reduce risks of bleeding.
Most symptoms appear to eventually go away, said Dr. Thomas McGinn of the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research in New York, who was involved in one of the largest U.S. studies of COVID-19 patients.
“It’s just a matter of when. For some patients it may take longer than others,” McGinn said.
___
The AP is answering your questions about the coronavirus in this series. Submit them at: FactCheck@AP.org.
Read previous Viral Questions:
- Is it safe to go swimming during the coronavirus pandemic?
- What is herd immunity and could it work with COVID-19?


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Officer points gun at black teens in video; police explain

ATLANTA ( AP ) - A video showing an officer in a community near Atlanta pointing a gun at group of teenagers has gone viral , with viewers voicing their disdain for the officer ’ s behavior .
The video starts in the middle of the incident and shows a Clayton County police officer pointing a gun at five black teenagers , while a crowd pleads with him to put the gun down .
The ages of the teens weren ’ t immediately released .
Police said they received a call Monday night from a gas station clerk stating teens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business and waving a gun , news outlets reported .
Another caller said the teens left the store and were in the parking lot playing with a gun and fighting .
Police said the officer located the group of teens described by the clerk and he pulled out his gun because of reports that they were armed .
In the video , the officer tells bystanders that it ’ s “ one against five ” and that he had his gun out because “ he was being safe.
” Unidentified voices in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They are kids .
What did they do ?
” Another voice cries , “ This is too much .
They babies.
” Body camera footage shows the officer talking to the teens , instructing them to stay still so “ no one gets hurt.
” He also tells them not to pay attention to the crowd .
When backup arrives , police patted the teens down and brought them back to the store .
Police said surveillance video from the store showed the teens playing with a gun .
The teens told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they threw away .
The gun was found and police said it resembled a live semi-automatic pistol .
The teens weren ’ t charged nor were they taken into custody .
In a news conference Tuesday , residents were joined by rapper Clifford “ T.I.
” Harris as they called for the officer ’ s firing .
T.I .
asked , “ Why don ’ t we ever see little white kids being held a gunpoint ?
Period .
The constitution was written for all Americans except it seems like you only have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain color to reap the benefits.
” The incident comes days after Rayshard Brooks , a black man , was fatally shot by a white Atlanta police officer .
“ It ’ s very clear that our police officers are to be guardians and not warriors within our communities , ” Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said Monday in announcing she will require officers to continuously undergo de-escalation training .

ATLANTA (AP) - A video showing an officer in a community near Atlanta pointing a gun at group of teenagers has gone viral, with viewers voicing their disdain for the officer’s behavior.
The video starts in the middle of the incident and shows a Clayton County police officer pointing a gun at five black teenagers, while a crowd pleads with him to put the gun down. The ages of the teens weren’t immediately released.
Police said they received a call Monday night from a gas station clerk stating teens were inside the store stealing from the business and waving a gun, news outlets reported. Another caller said the teens left the store and were in the parking lot playing with a gun and fighting.
Police said the officer located the group of teens described by the clerk and he pulled out his gun because of reports that they were armed.
In the video, the officer tells bystanders that it’s “one against five” and that he had his gun out because “he was being safe.”
Unidentified voices in the video could be heard shouting, “They are kids. What did they do?” Another voice cries, “This is too much. They babies.”
Body camera footage shows the officer talking to the teens, instructing them to stay still so “no one gets hurt.” He also tells them not to pay attention to the crowd.
When backup arrives, police patted the teens down and brought them back to the store.
Police said surveillance video from the store showed the teens playing with a gun. The teens told police it was a BB gun that they threw away. The gun was found and police said it resembled a live semi-automatic pistol.
The teens weren’t charged nor were they taken into custody.
In a news conference Tuesday, residents were joined by rapper Clifford “T.I.” Harris as they called for the officer’s firing.
T.I. asked, “Why don’t we ever see little white kids being held a gunpoint? Period. The constitution was written for all Americans except it seems like you only have to be a certain shade or a certain color to reap the benefits.”
The officer’s name wasn’t immediately released.
The incident comes days after Rayshard Brooks, a black man, was fatally shot by a white Atlanta police officer.
“It’s very clear that our police officers are to be guardians and not warriors within our communities,” Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said Monday in announcing she will require officers to continuously undergo de-escalation training.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--18 people arrested over quarantine remain jailed in Hawaii

HONOLULU ( AP ) - Most of the 21 people who call themselves a misunderstood , nature-loving family , remained jailed Tuesday over allegedly violating Hawaii ’ s traveler quarantine , even after they agreed to return to Los Angeles .
Eligio Bishop , leader of the group known as Carbon Nation , was released with two others Monday after he pleaded no contest to violating Hawaii ’ s quarantine , which is meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus in the islands .
After their release , they caught a flight to Los Angeles , but Bishop told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting for his remaining “ family ” to join him .
“ I ’ m outside , but my people are not .
My family is not .
My family is still stuck in those cells , ” he said .
The 18 others will be released soon , after all their paperwork and discussions with their attorneys are finalized , Hawaii County Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth said .
“ We are working on everyone else , ” he said .
“ They should be out by the end of the week.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over June 7 and 8 .
On the 8th , Bishop and others were seen at a beach , where Bishop petted a sea turtle , police said .
“ I definitely didn ’ t know that wasn ’ t allowed .
Never seen a turtle before that big , ” he said .
“ I ’ ve never seen a turtle just free in the ocean.
” All travelers - tourists and residents - arriving in Hawaii must obey a mandatory 14-day quarantine , which doesn ’ t allow people to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other than medical emergencies .
As of Tuesday , 740 people have tested positive for coronavirus and 17 people have died in the state .
Bishop said they weren ’ t aware Hawaii officials were serious about the quarantine , even though he and others signed documents at the airport saying they acknowledged the quarantine order .
“ So , honest mistake because we were all under the impression that it was just like everywhere else in the states where it ’ s not that serious.
” he said .
“ People were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says he is often described as cult leader , but he said the distinction surprises him .
“ The first time I heard that , I thought it was kind of cool , ” he said .
“ Me ?
A black man , a cult leader ?
I ’ m from the hood.
” They have been misunderstood everywhere they have lived , including Costa Rica , he said .
“ We ’ re a group of African Americans that are protesting our conditions by leaving them , ” he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the internet.
” Carbon Nation members follow a vegan diet and believe - among other things - that all people are different shades of brown , member Kendra Carter said Monday .
Police decided not to arrest Carter and another woman so they could remain with their children without involving child protective services .
The group traveled to Hawaii seeking nature , Carter said .
They planned to make Hawaii their home , until they started getting death threats , she said .
“ My daughter and my wife is in there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an Airbnb rental property where group members were staying and where people were making threats .
“ And I was like , I was so afraid for their lives because you just don ’ t know what people are going to do.
” So they left Hawaii before Bishop ’ s release .
Jessica Lani Rich , president of the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii , which helps tourists , said she ’ s hoping to get the remaining 18 on the same flight out .
A grant is funding a flight assistance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
Her organization was busy handling logistical details including luggage and making sure they get their IDs from authorities .
“ It ’ s aloha oe to the Carbon Nation , ” she said , using a common Hawaiian farewell .

HONOLULU (AP) - Most of the 21 people part of a group who call themselves a misunderstood, nature-loving family remained jailed Tuesday over allegedly violating Hawaii’s traveler quarantine, even after they agreed to return to Los Angeles.
Eligio Bishop, leader of the group known as Carbon Nation, was released with two others Monday after he pleaded no contest to violating Hawaii’s quarantine, which is meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus in the islands.
After their release, they caught a flight to Los Angeles, but Bishop told The Associated Press Tuesday he’s waiting for his remaining “family” to join him.
“I’m outside, but my people are not. My family is not. My family is still stuck in those cells,” he said.
The 18 others will be released soon, after all their paperwork and discussions with their attorneys are finalized, Hawaii County Prosecuting Attorney Mitch Roth said.
“We are working on everyone else,” he said. “They should be out by the end of the week.”
Bishop and his group arrived in Hawaii over June 7 and 8. On the 8th, Bishop and others were seen at a beach, where Bishop petted a sea turtle, police said.
“I definitely didn’t know that wasn’t allowed. Never seen a turtle before that big,” he said. “I’ve never seen a turtle just free in the ocean.”
All travelers - tourists and residents - arriving in Hawaii must obey a mandatory 14-day quarantine, which doesn’t allow people to leave a hotel room or residence for anything other than medical emergencies.
As of Tuesday, 740 people have tested positive for coronavirus and 17 people have died, according to Hawaii’s Department of Health.
Bishop said they weren’t aware Hawaii officials were serious about the quarantine, even though he and others signed documents at the airport acknowledging the quarantine order.
“So, honest mistake because we were all under the impression that it was just like everywhere else in the states where it’s not that serious.” he said. “People were still out, going around.”
Bishop says he is often described as a cult leader, but he said the distinction surprises him.
“The first time I heard that, I thought it was kind of cool,” he said. “Me? A black man, a cult leader? I’m from the hood.”
They have been misunderstood everywhere they have lived, including Costa Rica, he said.
“We’re a group of African Americans that are protesting our conditions by leaving them,” he said. “They just make us look crazy on the internet.”
Carbon Nation members follow a vegan diet and believe - among other things - that all people are different shades of brown, member Kendra Carter said Monday.
Police decided not to arrest Carter and another woman so they could remain with their children without involving child protective services.
The group traveled to Hawaii seeking nature, Carter said. They planned to make Hawaii their home, until they started getting death threats, she said.
“My daughter and my wife is in there,” Bishop said, referring to an Airbnb rental property where some group members were staying and where people were making threats. “And I was like, I was so afraid for their lives because you just don’t know what people are going to do.” So they left Hawaii before Bishop’s release.
Jessica Lani Rich, president of the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii, which helps tourists, said she’s hoping to get the remaining 18 on the same flight out. A grant is funding a flight assistance program for people who break quarantine, she said.
Her organization was busy handling logistical details including luggage and making sure they get their IDs from authorities.
“It’s aloha oe to the Carbon Nation,” she said, using a common Hawaiian farewell.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Testing tradition, Trump taps US official to lead Latin bank

MIAMI ( AP ) - The Trump administration said Tuesday it plans to nominate the top White House official for Latin America to lead the Inter-American Development Bank , aiming to break a six-decade tradition of choosing the bank ’ s leadership from candidates in that region .
The Treasury Department said Mauricio Claver-Carone could provide unique leadership that will help Latin America and the Caribbean overcome the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic , which threatens to plunge the region into one of its worst economic crises in decades .
“ The IDB is at a critical juncture as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sustainable development , particularly in light of the global pandemic , ” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement .
Since its founding in 1959 , the Washington-based development bank has always been led by someone from Latin America .
The current head , Colombia ’ s Luis Alberto Moreno , is preparing to step down after 15 years following elections for his replacement scheduled for September .
Claver-Carone , now the National Security Council ’ s senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs , is the main architect of the Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure ” on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and leftist allies Cuba and Nicaragua - what his one-time boss , former National Security Adviser John Bolton , called the “ troika of tyranny.
” In an interview , Claver-Carone , a Cuban-American attorney , said that in recent weeks , several presidents and officials in the region with whom he is in daily contact urged him to take the exceptional step of running for the bank ’ s top job because they want the U.S. to help mobilize capital and investment so the region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The number one complaint forever with IDB is that the U.S. didn ’ t care enough about the IDB , that the U.S. doesn ’ t pay attention , ” he said .
“ In the Trump administration we ’ re changing that.
” If elected , Claver-Carone said he would serve a single five-year term .
He also vowed to reform the bank to impose term limits for all future presidents to reflect the region ’ s own evolving democratic norms .
“ One tradition people don ’ t talk about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been only four presidents , ” he said .
“ These 15- , 20-year presidencies have to end.
” As the bank ’ s biggest shareholder , the U.S. has traditionally led from behind , with a de facto veto over major decisions and a reserved seat for an American as the bank ’ s powerful executive vice president .
The administration of President Donald Trump quietly put forward Claver-Carone for the bank ’ s No .
2 job early this year but his name was rejected by Moreno , who saw his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bank ’ s development mission , said a person familiar with the situation .
The person agreed to talk about the situation on condition of anonymity because of the political sensitivities surrounding the U.S. nomination .
A former bank official , who also insisted on anonymity , said , “ The question is : Will Brazil , Mexico and Argentina roll over for Trump ?
” While nobody has been formally nominated yet to succeed Moreno , several governments have informally floated candidates including former Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla and Argentina ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decided to run with the backing of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro , the staunchest Trump ally in the region .
He said more than a dozen other countries have privately pledged their support although so far only Ecuador has done so publicly .
Backing from Brazil would give Claver-Carone candidacy a big boost .
Voting is proportional based on each of the 48 member countries ’ shareholding power .
The U.S. has 30 % of the votes and would need the support of 15 of the 26 borrowing countries .
Claver-Carone previously served @ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Monetary Fund and also held a senior position at the Treasury Department .
At the White House since 2018 , he also spearheaded a program , Growth in the Americas , to support economic development in energy and infrastructure projects across the region .
He says he feels best known for “ taking on bad guys.
” Foremost among them is Maduro , who the U.S. has been seeking unsuccessfully to remove for 17 months through sanctions , criminal indictments and the recognition of Juan Guaidó the head of the opposition-controlled congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Last year , Claver-Carone played a key role in getting the bank to cancel its annual meeting in China after Beijing refused to allow a Guaidó representative to attend .

MIAMI (AP) - The Trump administration said Tuesday it plans to nominate the top White House official for Latin America to lead the Inter-American Development Bank, aiming to break a six-decade tradition of choosing the bank’s leadership from candidates in that region.
The Treasury Department said Mauricio Claver-Carone could provide unique leadership that will help Latin America and the Caribbean overcome the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, which threatens to plunge the region into one of its worst economic crises in decades.
“The IDB is at a critical juncture as the region faces growing challenges to economic growth and sustainable development, particularly in light of the global pandemic,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.
Since its founding in 1959, the Washington-based development bank has always been led by someone from Latin America. The current head, Colombia’s Luis Alberto Moreno, is preparing to step down after 15 years following elections for his replacement scheduled for September.
Claver-Carone, now the National Security Council’s senior director for Western Hemisphere affairs, is the main architect of the Trump administration’s policy of “maximum pressure” on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and leftist allies Cuba and Nicaragua - what his one-time boss, former National Security Adviser John Bolton, called the “troika of tyranny.”
In an interview, Claver-Carone, a Cuban-American attorney, said that in recent weeks, several presidents and officials in the region with whom he is in daily contact urged him to take the exceptional step of running for the bank’s top job because they want the U.S. to help mobilize capital and investment so the region recovers swiftly from the coronavirus pandemic.
“The number one complaint forever with IDB is that the U.S. didn’t care enough about the IDB, that the U.S. doesn’t pay attention,” he said. “In the Trump administration we’re changing that.”
If elected, Claver-Carone said he would serve a single five-year term. He also vowed to reform the bank to impose term limits for all future presidents to reflect the region’s own evolving democratic norms.
“One tradition people don’t talk about is that for 60 years there have been only four presidents,” he said. “These 15-, 20-year presidencies have to end.”
As the bank’s biggest shareholder, the U.S. has traditionally led from behind, with a de facto veto over major decisions and a reserved seat for an American as the bank’s powerful executive vice president.
The administration of President Donald Trump quietly put forward Claver-Carone for the bank’s No. 2 job early this year but his name was rejected by Moreno, who saw his sometimes hard-line policies at odds with the bank’s development mission, said a person familiar with the situation. The person agreed to talk about the situation on condition of anonymity because of the political sensitivities surrounding the U.S. nomination.
A former bank official, who also insisted on anonymity, said, “The question is: Will Brazil, Mexico and Argentina roll over for Trump?”
While nobody has been formally nominated yet to succeed Moreno, several governments have informally floated candidates including former Costa Rican President Laura Chinchilla and Argentina’s Gustavo Belíz.
Claver-Carone said he decided to run with the backing of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, the staunchest Trump ally in the region. He said more than a dozen other countries have privately pledged their support although so far only Ecuador has done so publicly.
Backing from Brazil would give Claver-Carone candidacy a big boost. Voting is proportional based on each of the 48 member countries’ shareholding power. The U.S. has 30% of the votes and would need the support of 15 of the 26 borrowing countries.
The bank declined to comment.
Claver-Carone previously served as the U.S. executive director for the International Monetary Fund and also held a senior position at the Treasury Department. At the White House since 2018, he also spearheaded a program, Growth in the Americas, to support economic development in energy and infrastructure projects across the region.
He says he feels best known for “taking on bad guys.” Foremost among them is Maduro, who the U.S. has been seeking unsuccessfully to remove for 17 months through sanctions, criminal indictments and the recognition of Juan Guaidó the head of the opposition-controlled congress, as Venezuela’s rightful leader.
Last year, Claver-Carone played a key role in getting the bank to cancel its annual meeting in China after Beijing refused to allow a Guaidó representative to attend.
___
Joshua Follow Goodman on Twitter: @APJoshGoodman


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Suicidal man shoots self during 14-hour Reno standoff

RENO , Nev. ( AP ) - Washoe County sheriff ’ s deputies say an armed , suicidal man who @ @ @ @ @ in south Reno shot himself before a 14-hour standoff ended and he was taken to @ @ @ @ @ condition isn ’ t known .
Deputies say they sent two robotic cameras into the @ @ @ @ @ the standoff that began at about 8 p.m. Monday .
They say the suspect threatened @ @ @ @ @ gun at him and subsequently fired a single round from a handgun “ in an @ @ @ @ @ negotiators continued to talk with him for the next 12 hours before he was apprehended @ @ @ @ @ hospital .
The man ’ s name has not been released .
The sheriff ’ @ @ @ @ @ suicidal statements and gestures during the standoff , and had been named in a temporary @ @ @ @ @ .

RENO, Nev. (AP) - Washoe County sheriff’s deputies say an armed, suicidal man who barricaded himself in a garage in south Reno shot himself before a 14-hour standoff ended and he was taken to a local hospital where his condition isn’t known.
Deputies say they sent two robotic cameras into the home a few hours into the standoff that began at about 8 p.m. Monday. They say the suspect threatened his brother, pointed a gun at him and subsequently fired a single round from a handgun “in an unknown direction.”
SWAT team negotiators continued to talk with him for the next 12 hours before he was apprehended Tuesday and transported to the hospital.
The man’s name has not been released. The sheriff’s office said he made suicidal statements and gestures during the standoff, and had been named in a temporary restraining order that recently expired.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Black reporter sues paper over ban on her protest coverage

A Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter prohibited from covering the city ’ s Black Lives Matter protests because of a tweet sued the paper on Tuesday .
Alexis Johnson , who is black , filed the lawsuit in federal court in Pennsylvania alleging the Post-Gazette was engaging in racial discrimination and illegal retaliation .
The suit says Johnson ’ s editors told her she could not pursue planned stories on jailed protesters or social-media efforts to raise bail funds because a May 31 tweet she sent about the different treatment black and white people get for doing property damage was an unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson Tweet was intended to - and did - mock , ridicule and protest discrimination against African Americans by society in general and by whites who equate property damage with human life , ” the suit says .
It alleges that the subsequent ban on her coverage “ would tend to dissuade a reasonable newspaper reporter from making or supporting claims of race discrimination.
” Johnson ’ s tweet showed photos of trashed public spaces in the aftermath of a crowd , with the text : “ Horrifying scenes and aftermath from selfish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this city !
!
!
!
!
” the tweet ’ s text says .
“ … .
oh wait sorry .
“ No , these are pictures from a Kenny Chesney concert tailgate .
Whoops.
” The suit alleges that white reporters who have sent similar social media posts did not receive similar treatment .
“ For example , Defendant ’ s reporters who spoke out publicly against discrimination and hate after the 2018 shootings at the Tree of Life synagogue - which did not involve actions by police directed at African @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that story , ” the suit says .
Michael M. Santiago , a black photographer for the paper who says he was prohibited from protest coverage for the same reason , has accepted a buyout and is leaving the paper .
Santiago said on Twitter that “ I hate to be departing under these circumstances but it is necessary ” and “ how can I work for someone that doesn ’ t love me.
” An email seeking comment on the lawsuit was sent to Johnson ’ s editors .
Post-Gazette managing editor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue , saying the editors could not discuss personnel matters .
The lawsuit says Johnson has suffered mental anguish , emotional strain , humiliation and diminished career advancement because of her employers .
It seeks for the paper to be forced to allow her to cover the protest and racial issues , for her bosses to be prevented from retaliating against her .
It also seeks monetary damages to be determined at trial .
Johnson ’ s fellow reporters , her union and the city ’ s mayor rallied around her when they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move , with dozens of them sending identical tweets in support .
The president of Johnson ’ s Guild President Michael A. Fuoco , who is also a Post-Gazette reporter , said that guild leaders were “ appalled ” by the move , and the paper ’ s editors have not yielded at all in discussions about Johnson ’ s status .

A Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter prohibited from covering the city’s Black Lives Matter protests because of a tweet sued the paper on Tuesday.
Alexis Johnson, who is black, filed the lawsuit in federal court in Pennsylvania alleging the Post-Gazette was engaging in racial discrimination and illegal retaliation.
The suit says Johnson’s editors told her she could not pursue planned stories on jailed protesters or social-media efforts to raise bail funds because a May 31 tweet she sent about the different treatment black and white people get for doing property damage was an unacceptable public display of bias.
“The Johnson Tweet was intended to - and did - mock, ridicule and protest discrimination against African Americans by society in general and by whites who equate property damage with human life,” the suit says.
It alleges that the subsequent ban on her coverage “would tend to dissuade a reasonable newspaper reporter from making or supporting claims of race discrimination.”
Johnson’s tweet showed photos of trashed public spaces in the aftermath of a crowd, with the text: “Horrifying scenes and aftermath from selfish LOOTERS who don’t care about this city!!!!!” the tweet’s text says. “…. oh wait sorry. “No, these are pictures from a Kenny Chesney concert tailgate. Whoops.”
The suit alleges that white reporters who have sent similar social media posts did not receive similar treatment.
“For example, Defendant’s reporters who spoke out publicly against discrimination and hate after the 2018 shootings at the Tree of Life synagogue - which did not involve actions by police directed at African Americans - were not removed from covering that story,” the suit says.
Michael M. Santiago, a black photographer for the paper who says he was prohibited from protest coverage for the same reason, has accepted a buyout and is leaving the paper.
Santiago said on Twitter that “I hate to be departing under these circumstances but it is necessary” and “how can I work for someone that doesn’t love me.”
An email seeking comment on the lawsuit was sent to Johnson’s editors. Post-Gazette managing editor Karen Kane previously declined comment on the issue, saying the editors could not discuss personnel matters.
The lawsuit says Johnson has suffered mental anguish, emotional strain, humiliation and diminished career advancement because of her employers. It seeks for the paper to be forced to allow her to cover the protest and racial issues, for her bosses to be prevented from retaliating against her. It also seeks monetary damages to be determined at trial.
Johnson’s fellow reporters, her union and the city’s mayor rallied around her when they got word of the paper’s move, with dozens of them sending identical tweets in support.
The president of Johnson’s Guild President Michael A. Fuoco, who is also a Post-Gazette reporter, said that guild leaders were “appalled” by the move, and the paper’s editors have not yielded at all in discussions about Johnson’s status.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--Supreme Court halts execution of man challenging Texas' ban on religious advisers

The Supreme Court halted the execution of a Texas man on Tuesday who has sued the state , saying its prison policy violates the First Amendment since it does not allow his priest in the execution chamber with him at his time of death .
For years , Texas allowed inmates to have a state-employed chaplain with them in the execution chamber but after Patrick Murphy , a Buddhist inmate , challenged the policy last year , the state changed its rule , to now not allowing any religious advisers in the execution chamber so that one religion is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a Catholic , successfully brought a legal challenge against Texas ’ new policy in district court , which halted his execution .
The 5th U.S. Court of Appeals , though , overturned the lower court ruling , and Gutierrez took his case to the Supreme Court , requesting a stay of his execution while the legal battle worked its way through the court .
Justice Samuel A. Alito , Jr. granted the stay on Tuesday , noting it is in effect until the high court decides whether or not to take the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now , the First Amendment issue is going back to the lower court for further litigation .
“ The District Court should promptly determine , based on whatever evidence the parties provide , whether serious security problems would result if a prisoner facing execution is permitted to choose the spiritual adviser the prisoner wishes to have in his immediate presence during the execution , ” Justice Alito wrote in the high court ’ s order on Tuesday .
Lawyers for Gutierrez argued in court papers that having a religious adviser present at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Biblical times , and had been safely done in Texas for years .
“ In light of these religious and historical traditions , current Texas clergy have expressed alarm at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice ’ s ( “ TDCJ ” ) new policy , ” the petition argued .
Gutierrez was convicted of killing a woman in 1999 after breaking into a Brownsville home to commit a robbery .
According to local reports , he has been fighting for a DNA test for a decade , claiming he is innocent @

The Supreme Court halted the execution of a Texas man on Tuesday who has sued the state, saying its prison policy violates the First Amendment since it does not allow his priest in the execution chamber with him at his time of death.
For years, Texas allowed inmates to have a state-employed chaplain with them in the execution chamber but after Patrick Murphy, a Buddhist inmate, challenged the policy last year, the state changed its rule, to now not allowing any religious advisers in the execution chamber so that one religion is not favored over another.
But Ruben Gutierrez, a Catholic, successfully brought a legal challenge against Texas’ new policy in district court, which halted his execution. The 5th U.S. Court of Appeals, though, overturned the lower court ruling, and Gutierrez took his case to the Supreme Court, requesting a stay of his execution while the legal battle worked its way through the court.
Justice Samuel A. Alito, Jr. granted the stay on Tuesday, noting it is in effect until the high court decides whether or not to take the case challenging Texas’ policy.
For now, the First Amendment issue is going back to the lower court for further litigation.
“The District Court should promptly determine, based on whatever evidence the parties provide, whether serious security problems would result if a prisoner facing execution is permitted to choose the spiritual adviser the prisoner wishes to have in his immediate presence during the execution,” Justice Alito wrote in the high court’s order on Tuesday.
Lawyers for Gutierrez argued in court papers that having a religious adviser present at the time of death goes as far back as Biblical times, and had been safely done in Texas for years.
“In light of these religious and historical traditions, current Texas clergy have expressed alarm at the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s (“TDCJ”) new policy,” the petition argued.
Gutierrez was convicted of killing a woman in 1999 after breaking into a Brownsville home to commit a robbery. According to local reports, he has been fighting for a DNA test for a decade, claiming he is innocent.
• Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-06-16--California mayor to resign over handling of police reform

HEALDSBURG , Calif. ( AP ) - The mayor of the Northern California town of Healdsburg is resigning amid criticism she mishandled requests by the local Black Lives Matter movement and its allies to have a discussion on how police officers employ force in the line of duty .
Mayor Leah Gold announced Tuesday in a letter she planned to step down on June 30 , the Press Democrat reported .
Her resignation comes two weeks after Gold and the majority of her City Council colleagues declined to have a formal discussion about police use of force policies amid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police brutality and racism .
“ To me , it ’ s a solution looking for a problem .
I don ’ t see that that ’ s a place I particularly want to put our time and energy , ” Gold said at a virtual City Council meeting June 1 , when protests were spreading nationwide over the death of George Floyd , a black man who died after being restrained in Minnesota by a white officer .
After her comments , she faced a torrent of calls for her resignation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a demonstration in the town ’ s plaza when a crowd encircled Gold and several council members , reasserting their call for her to resign .
The U.S. Census estimates about 70 % of the town ’ s 12,000 residents are white .
About a third of the population in the town in California ’ s wine country are Latino , with a small share of Asian-American , Black and Native American residents .
In an interview with the newspaper , Gold acknowledged that her initial stance on concerns raised by residents had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , could grant a chance for a person of color to assume her seat on the all-white council .
“ I feel , considering the council has some major work ahead to respond to the community and work on these issues of racial equity , that I seem to be a target , and they may be more effective if I ’ m out of the picture , ” Gold said .

HEALDSBURG, Calif. (AP) - The mayor of the Northern California town of Healdsburg is resigning amid criticism she mishandled requests by the local Black Lives Matter movement and its allies to have a discussion on how police officers employ force in the line of duty.
Mayor Leah Gold announced Tuesday in a letter she planned to step down on June 30, the Press Democrat reported.
Her resignation comes two weeks after Gold and the majority of her City Council colleagues declined to have a formal discussion about police use of force policies amid the ongoing national push for an end to police brutality and racism.
“To me, it’s a solution looking for a problem. I don’t see that that’s a place I particularly want to put our time and energy,” Gold said at a virtual City Council meeting June 1, when protests were spreading nationwide over the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after being restrained in Minnesota by a white officer.
After her comments, she faced a torrent of calls for her resignation and last week, tensions boiled over during a demonstration in the town’s plaza when a crowd encircled Gold and several council members, reasserting their call for her to resign.
The U.S. Census estimates about 70% of the town’s 12,000 residents are white. About a third of the population in the town in California’s wine country are Latino, with a small share of Asian-American, Black and Native American residents.
In an interview with the newspaper, Gold acknowledged that her initial stance on concerns raised by residents had fallen short. Stepping down, she said, could grant a chance for a person of color to assume her seat on the all-white council.
“I feel, considering the council has some major work ahead to respond to the community and work on these issues of racial equity, that I seem to be a target, and they may be more effective if I’m out of the picture,” Gold said.