washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Navajo Nation reports 6 deaths, 180 new COVID-19 cases

WINDOW ROCK , Ariz. ( AP ) - Navajo Nation health officials on Friday reported six new deaths and 180 @ @ @ @ @ Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said the big increase in cases is partially due to @ @ @ @ @ Department of Health says there are 1,540 known coronavirus infections across the reservation , and @ @ @ @ @ Those don ’ t include cases from towns that border the vast reservation that spans @ @ @ @ @ Mexico and Utah .
Tribal authorities are again enforcing a weekend curfew in effect from @ @ @ @ @ 5 a.m. Monday , and Nez says more stringent patrols are planned .
People caught @ @ @ @ @ to 30 days in jail and fines up to $ 1,000 .
The U.S. Army @ @ @ @ @ temporary hospital beds in Gallup and Shiprock , New Mexico as well as Chinle , @ @ @ @ @ patients .

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) - Navajo Nation health officials on Friday reported six new deaths and 180 new cases of COVID-19.
Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez said the big increase in cases is partially due to increased testing.
The Navajo Department of Health says there are 1,540 known coronavirus infections across the reservation, and 58 people have died. Those don’t include cases from towns that border the vast reservation that spans parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.
Tribal authorities are again enforcing a weekend curfew in effect from 8 p.m. on Friday until 5 a.m. Monday, and Nez says more stringent patrols are planned. People caught violating the curfew face up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is building temporary hospital beds in Gallup and Shiprock, New Mexico as well as Chinle, Arizona to care for COVID-19 patients.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Ex-golf course director accused of stealing more than $100K

EASTON , Pa. ( AP ) - A former employee of a Pennsylvania golf course was charged in connection with a series of thefts that totaled more than $ 100,000 .
A number of charges were filed Wednesday against Patrick Mallory , 52 , of Wayne , New Jersey , including theft of trade secrets from the Morgan Hill Golf Course in Williams Township .
As the golf course ’ s former director of operations , state authorities say Mallory pocketed tens of thousands of dollars while waiting in the parking lot to sell punch cards for five rounds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The thefts took place from 2016 to 2017 and may have cost the business and its customers $ 100,515 , according to a state police report .
Mallory told LehighValleyLive.com on Thursday that the case against him is bogus and that he plans to fight it .
He was fired from his position at the business for an unrelated incident in 2017 .
Mallory is also accused of sharing confidential trade secrets from his former employer with a business partner .
Police say he went on to use the information to open and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park , New Jersey .
He faces charges of theft of movable property and eight counts of theft by false impression .
Mallory has yet to be arraigned .
The golf course remains closed under the guidance issued by the CDC amid the coronavirus pandemic .

EASTON, Pa. (AP) - A former employee of a Pennsylvania golf course was charged in connection with a series of thefts that totaled more than $100,000.
A number of charges were filed Wednesday against Patrick Mallory, 52, of Wayne, New Jersey, including theft of trade secrets from the Morgan Hill Golf Course in Williams Township.
As the golf course’s former director of operations, state authorities say Mallory pocketed tens of thousands of dollars while waiting in the parking lot to sell punch cards for five rounds of golf with a sixth for free.
The thefts took place from 2016 to 2017 and may have cost the business and its customers $100,515, according to a state police report.
Mallory told LehighValleyLive.com on Thursday that the case against him is bogus and that he plans to fight it.
He was fired from his position at the business for an unrelated incident in 2017.
Mallory is also accused of sharing confidential trade secrets from his former employer with a business partner. Police say he went on to use the information to open and operate the Meadows Golf Course in Lincoln Park, New Jersey.
He faces charges of theft of movable property and eight counts of theft by false impression. Mallory has yet to be arraigned.
The golf course remains closed under the guidance issued by the CDC amid the coronavirus pandemic.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Former Padre, officer Walters dies 17 years after being shot

SAN DIEGO ( AP ) - Dan Walters , who played for the San Diego Padres for parts of two seasons , has died from complications of injuries he suffered as a police officer in 2003 .
He was 53 .
“ Dan grew up locally , played professional baseball here in San Diego and proudly served his city as a police officer , ” the San Diego Police Department said in a statement .
“ He will forever be remembered by the members of this Department.
” Walters attended suburban Santana High and played with the Padres in 1992 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Colorado and Oakland organizations but never returned to the majors .
His playing career ended when he suffered a severe spine injury while diving for a ball during a spring training drill .
He joined the police department in 1998 .
Walters was paralyzed on Nov. 12 , 2003 , when he was shot in the neck during a struggle with a domestic violence suspect and struck by a passing car , crushing two cervical vertebrae .
The suspect was killed by officers .
Walters used a wheelchair until his death Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walters ’ death , or “ end of watch , ” over the radio .
A video posted by the department showed two officers standing near Walters ’ flag-draped body on his bed .
As officers moved Walters ’ body on a gurney , a group of officers , including Chief David Nisleit , stood at attention in the driveway .
Eight motorcycle officers and three SUVs escorted a van carrying Walters ’ body .

SAN DIEGO (AP) - Dan Walters, who played for the San Diego Padres for parts of two seasons, has died from complications of injuries he suffered as a police officer in 2003. He was 53.
Walters’ death is considered a line-of-duty fatality.
“Dan grew up locally, played professional baseball here in San Diego and proudly served his city as a police officer,” the San Diego Police Department said in a statement. “He will forever be remembered by the members of this Department.”
Walters attended suburban Santana High and played with the Padres in 1992 and 1993. He later played in the Colorado and Oakland organizations but never returned to the majors. His playing career ended when he suffered a severe spine injury while diving for a ball during a spring training drill.
He joined the police department in 1998.
Walters was paralyzed on Nov. 12, 2003, when he was shot in the neck during a struggle with a domestic violence suspect and struck by a passing car, crushing two cervical vertebrae. The suspect was killed by officers. Walters used a wheelchair until his death Thursday.
A San Diego police dispatcher announced Walters’ death, or “end of watch,” over the radio.
A video posted by the department showed two officers standing near Walters’ flag-draped body on his bed. As officers moved Walters’ body on a gurney, a group of officers, including Chief David Nisleit, stood at attention in the driveway.
Eight motorcycle officers and three SUVs escorted a van carrying Walters’ body.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--1 killed, 1 injured in Mesa helicopter crash

MESA , Ariz. ( AP ) - One man was killed an another injured when a helicopter crashed in a @ @ @ @ @ authorities said .
The Bell “ Huey ” UH-1H crashed under unknown circumstances , the @ @ @ @ @ Photos from Sherwood Park in Mesa showed the body was badly damaged .
Jerry Ferguson @ @ @ @ @ Channels 3 and 5 , told the television stations that he saw the chopper go @ @ @ @ @ “ As I drove down U.S. 60 , I looked up , and saw the @ @ @ @ @ , and it was kind of wiggling back and forth , ” Ferguson said .
@ @ @ @ @ , it completely lost control and started spinning down toward the ground.
” said Ferguson @

MESA, Ariz. (AP) - One man was killed an another injured when a helicopter crashed in a park outside Phoenix Friday, authorities said.
The Bell “Huey” UH-1H crashed under unknown circumstances, the Federal Aviation Administration said. Photos from Sherwood Park in Mesa showed the body was badly damaged.
Jerry Ferguson, a helicopter photographer for Channels 3 and 5, told the television stations that he saw the chopper go down while driving home.
“As I drove down U.S. 60, I looked up, and saw the helicopter fly directly over me, and it was kind of wiggling back and forth,” Ferguson said. “As it came overhead, it completely lost control and started spinning down toward the ground.” said Ferguson.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Mexico receives 2nd group of Cuban doctors for virus help

MEXICO CITY ( AP ) - Another group of Cuban doctors has arrived in Mexico to help with the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ delegation the country has welcomed .
Assistant Health Secretary Hugo López-Gatell said Friday that the @ @ @ @ @ day earlier were invited by Mexico City authorities to bolster health care amid rising COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ the federal government approved of the city ’ s decision .
The group reportedly included @ @ @ @ @ The first group arrived in early April .
At that time , federal authorities said @ @ @ @ @ involved in direct patient care , and López-Gatell said Friday that the new group would @ @ @ @ @ said some of the Cuban doctors were experts in public health and intensive care .
@ @ @ @ @ shortfall of about 200,000 health care professionals , including doctors , nurses and other positions @ @ @ @ @ 2,000 health care workers have been infected with the coronavirus in Mexico since the pandemic @ @

MEXICO CITY (AP) - Another group of Cuban doctors has arrived in Mexico to help with the coronavirus outbreak, the second such delegation the country has welcomed.
Assistant Health Secretary Hugo López-Gatell said Friday that the Cuban doctors who arrived a day earlier were invited by Mexico City authorities to bolster health care amid rising COVID-19 case numbers. He said the federal government approved of the city’s decision.
The group reportedly included about 140 Cuban doctors. The first group arrived in early April. At that time, federal authorities said the Cubans would not be involved in direct patient care, and López-Gatell said Friday that the new group would act as advisers. He said some of the Cuban doctors were experts in public health and intensive care.
López-Gatell said Mexico has a shortfall of about 200,000 health care professionals, including doctors, nurses and other positions. In addition, about 2,000 health care workers have been infected with the coronavirus in Mexico since the pandemic began.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Man who drowned while fishing in western Colorado ID'd

GRAND JUNCTION , Colo. ( AP ) - Authorities have released the name of a man who drowned after falling @ @ @ @ @ fishing trip in western Colorado .
The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel reports 62-year-old Mark Lancaster @ @ @ @ @ who were in a different boat Sunday when he fell into the Colorado River .
@ @ @ @ @ spokeswoman Megan Terlecky says Lancaster ’ s fellow anglers were farther downstream and didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ had overturned .
Bystanders saw Lancaster ’ s body floating in the river .
His @ @ @ @ @ accident .
Lancaster was the facilities manager at Grand Valley Catholic Outreach for the past @ @ @ @ @ Sister Karen Bland described him as having a “ playful spirit , ” very generous @ @ @ @

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (AP) - Authorities have released the name of a man who drowned after falling from his boat during a fishing trip in western Colorado.
The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel reports 62-year-old Mark Lancaster was fishing with two others who were in a different boat Sunday when he fell into the Colorado River.
Mesa County sheriff’s spokeswoman Megan Terlecky says Lancaster’s fellow anglers were farther downstream and didn’t notice that his boat had overturned. Bystanders saw Lancaster’s body floating in the river.
His death has been ruled an accident.
Lancaster was the facilities manager at Grand Valley Catholic Outreach for the past seven to eight years. Sister Karen Bland described him as having a “playful spirit,” very generous and always positive.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Tiger found in a Houston garage moved to a wild animal ranch

HOUSTON ( AP ) - The anonymous tipster called the city ’ s non-emergency line on a rainy February day last year .
“ Somebody I know … they have a pet tiger in their house , ” the caller said .
“ How do you even get a pet tiger ?
” she asked .
The info the caller gave led officers to the garage of a small east Houston home , where , inside a 4-by-8 foot wire cage secured with a screwdriver , they found a tiger that weighed more than 300 pounds .
He looked poorly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filled with layers of waste , according to county documents .
And he was in a residential pocket of Manchester , within city limits , where it is illegal to own tigers .
The story was quickly becoming Houston ’ s own much talked-about tiger tale - with the same sense of intrigue now drawing many to “ Tiger King , ” the Netflix series about ex-Oklahoma zookeeper Joseph Allen Maldonado-Passage - better known as “ Joe Exotic ” - who is serving 22 years in federal prison in a murder-for-hire plot and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it happens , are legal to keep in parts of Texas .
They had to find this one a new home quickly , the Houston Chronicle reported .
Officials loaded the cage onto a horse trailer .
They took the tiger to the city animal shelter on the north side , as staff puzzled through the situation .
How old was he ?
Did he eat meat ?
What kind ?
Most importantly : Where could he go ?
Lara Cottingham , who oversees the shelter ’ s media , hurried there to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for custody of the tiger , arguing that he was cruelly treated , rather than return him to his owner .
Texas is the only state that leaves it to local jurisdictions to outlaw owning dangerous wild animals , says Katie Jarl , the Humane Society ’ s southwest region director .
The patchwork laws are dangerous - and people keeping them as pets sometimes could not care for them properly , Jarl argues .
But proposed statewide bans failed in 2013 , 2015 and 2017 .
A week before the tiger was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Houston Republican , filed a fourth attempt at a ban .
Word of the Houston tiger , meanwhile , reached Noelle Almrud , director of the Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in a rural area southeast of Dallas .
Almrud , 47 , is regularly asked to take in animals seized by law enforcement because of poor treatment .
The ranch is among the largest animal sanctuaries in the nation - but she often lacks space .
This time , she happened to have a tiger spot open .
A justice of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to decide the tiger ’ s care .
Almrud offered to take him .
She sent Christi Gilbreth , 40 , who leads the wildlife team , 200 miles from the ranch to the city shelter to pick up the tiger the day after he was found .
When Gilbreth returned to the ranch , she watched the tiger hesitate before touching the grass .
Their lead vet estimated he was a year-and-a-half old , and said he looked like he had been fed an incomplete diet and confined for a long time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court to determine whether he would stay there permanently , or be returned to his owner , who argued she had properly cared for him .
When the water and rural affairs committee heard testimony on a dangerous animal bill April 1 , state Sen. Carol Alvarado , a co-author , said the tiger case highlighted the need for change .
Texas fell behind other states in having laws to protect animals , she said in an interview .
The tiger was found a few blocks from where her mother lives .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story .
A tiger was corralled in Galveston church during Hurricane Ike .
Another was found in 2016 roaming a neighborhood in Conroe .
A third tore off the arm of a four-year-old in Channelview in 2000 .
“ I felt so bad for that tiger , ” 11-year-old Francesca Joseph testified of the Houston case , “ because I know that is not the kind of life a tiger is supposed to have.
” The senate passed the ban .
The house never voted on it .
The city of Houston pursued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was mistreated .
His owner , 25-year-old Brittany Garza , hired an attorney and fought back .
On April 5 , Justice of the Peace Angela Rodriguez ruled the tiger was treated cruelly .
She awarded the city permanent custody and ordered Garza to pay $ 11,609.53 for expenses .
A month later , on May 15 , while Garza spoke with Channel 13 , police arrested her on suspicion of criminal animal cruelty .
She faces up to a $ 4,000 fine and a year in jail .
That case is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t discuss what happened until the case was over .
Garza told the Channel 13 reporter she got the tiger , named Rajah , as a cub and planned to move him to College Station .
She had left him temporarily at her friend ’ s home , she said .
It is unclear where the tiger lived before that .
That house where he was found was purchased Sept. 4 , 2018 at auction - about five months before authorities discovered him .
On the criminal case , Garza listed her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city limits .
( Tigers are allowed in Harris and Montgomery counties . )
She filed also as owner of a nearby pet grooming business , “ Tails R Us.
” Some of her social media posts advertised animal sales , from bulldogs to piglets to a Marmoset monkey .
One in 2018 shows what appears to be her pet Capuchin monkey , Cami .
( Monkeys under 25 pounds are allowed in the city . )
The family no longer lives in that home and the business storefront is gone .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two days after he arrived - Cottingham , the city employee , went to visit the tiger , renamed Loki , at Black Beauty Ranch .
Cottingham was curious about how he was doing .
The story , in some ways , had become linked to her : Starbucks employees call her “ Tiger Lady , ” and City Hall security guards ask about the animal .
Almrud drove Cottingham to Loki ’ s enclosure , passing Don Juan the ostrich , whose case featured on T.V.
, and Bubba the camel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Loki , where are you ?
” Almrud called .
The playful tiger , who is now 308 pounds , came bounding forward .
“ Hi , sweet boy , ” she said , and Loki chuffed - a tiger sound that is a series of puffs signifying a friendly hello .
He seemed more confident , Gilbreth said .
He liked his pool .
The wind didn ’ t scare him anymore .
Almrud found it ludicrous anyone would own a tiger - an animal she thinks deserves to live in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garza visit him privately there , where he will live out his life behind 16-foot high fences .
The ranch spends about $ 23,000 a year caring for him .
“ He was our celebrity , ” Cottingham said .
“ He ’ s able to just be a tiger now , ” said Gilbreth .

HOUSTON (AP) - The anonymous tipster called the city’s non-emergency line on a rainy February day last year.
“Somebody I know … they have a pet tiger in their house,” the caller said.
The dispatcher cleared her throat.
“How do you even get a pet tiger?” she asked.
The info the caller gave led officers to the garage of a small east Houston home, where, inside a 4-by-8 foot wire cage secured with a screwdriver, they found a tiger that weighed more than 300 pounds.
He looked poorly cared for, confined in the cage filled with layers of waste, according to county documents. And he was in a residential pocket of Manchester, within city limits, where it is illegal to own tigers.
The story was quickly becoming Houston’s own much talked-about tiger tale - with the same sense of intrigue now drawing many to “Tiger King,” the Netflix series about ex-Oklahoma zookeeper Joseph Allen Maldonado-Passage - better known as “Joe Exotic” - who is serving 22 years in federal prison in a murder-for-hire plot and wildlife law violations.
Tigers, as it happens, are legal to keep in parts of Texas. They had to find this one a new home quickly, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Officials loaded the cage onto a horse trailer. They took the tiger to the city animal shelter on the north side, as staff puzzled through the situation.
How old was he? Did he eat meat? What kind?
Most importantly: Where could he go?
Lara Cottingham, who oversees the shelter’s media, hurried there to help. The city decided to fight for custody of the tiger, arguing that he was cruelly treated, rather than return him to his owner.
Texas is the only state that leaves it to local jurisdictions to outlaw owning dangerous wild animals, says Katie Jarl, the Humane Society’s southwest region director.
The patchwork laws are dangerous - and people keeping them as pets sometimes could not care for them properly, Jarl argues. But proposed statewide bans failed in 2013, 2015 and 2017.
A week before the tiger was found, state Sen. Joan Huffman, a Houston Republican, filed a fourth attempt at a ban.
Word of the Houston tiger, meanwhile, reached Noelle Almrud, director of the Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch in a rural area southeast of Dallas.
Almrud, 47, is regularly asked to take in animals seized by law enforcement because of poor treatment. The ranch is among the largest animal sanctuaries in the nation - but she often lacks space.
This time, she happened to have a tiger spot open.
A justice of the peace gave the city temporary authority to decide the tiger’s care. Almrud offered to take him.
She sent Christi Gilbreth, 40, who leads the wildlife team, 200 miles from the ranch to the city shelter to pick up the tiger the day after he was found.
When Gilbreth returned to the ranch, she watched the tiger hesitate before touching the grass.
Their lead vet estimated he was a year-and-a-half old, and said he looked like he had been fed an incomplete diet and confined for a long time.
It would be up to a court to determine whether he would stay there permanently, or be returned to his owner, who argued she had properly cared for him.
When the water and rural affairs committee heard testimony on a dangerous animal bill April 1, state Sen. Carol Alvarado, a co-author, said the tiger case highlighted the need for change.
Texas fell behind other states in having laws to protect animals, she said in an interview. The tiger was found a few blocks from where her mother lives.
And it wasn’t the first such story. A tiger was corralled in Galveston church during Hurricane Ike. Another was found in 2016 roaming a neighborhood in Conroe. A third tore off the arm of a four-year-old in Channelview in 2000.
“I felt so bad for that tiger,” 11-year-old Francesca Joseph testified of the Houston case, “because I know that is not the kind of life a tiger is supposed to have.”
The senate passed the ban. The house never voted on it.
The city of Houston pursued permanent custody of the tiger, alleging he was mistreated. His owner, 25-year-old Brittany Garza, hired an attorney and fought back.
On April 5, Justice of the Peace Angela Rodriguez ruled the tiger was treated cruelly. She awarded the city permanent custody and ordered Garza to pay $11,609.53 for expenses.
A month later, on May 15, while Garza spoke with Channel 13, police arrested her on suspicion of criminal animal cruelty.
She faces up to a $4,000 fine and a year in jail. That case is ongoing.
Her mother said they couldn’t discuss what happened until the case was over.
Garza told the Channel 13 reporter she got the tiger, named Rajah, as a cub and planned to move him to College Station.
She had left him temporarily at her friend’s home, she said.
It is unclear where the tiger lived before that. That house where he was found was purchased Sept. 4, 2018 at auction - about five months before authorities discovered him.
On the criminal case, Garza listed her address in north Houston, barely inside the city limits. (Tigers are allowed in Harris and Montgomery counties.)
She filed also as owner of a nearby pet grooming business, “Tails R Us.” Some of her social media posts advertised animal sales, from bulldogs to piglets to a Marmoset monkey.
One in 2018 shows what appears to be her pet Capuchin monkey, Cami. (Monkeys under 25 pounds are allowed in the city.)
The family no longer lives in that home and the business storefront is gone.
On Feb. 14 - a year and two days after he arrived - Cottingham, the city employee, went to visit the tiger, renamed Loki, at Black Beauty Ranch.
Cottingham was curious about how he was doing. The story, in some ways, had become linked to her: Starbucks employees call her “Tiger Lady,” and City Hall security guards ask about the animal.
Almrud drove Cottingham to Loki’s enclosure, passing Don Juan the ostrich, whose case featured on T.V., and Bubba the camel, whose plight became an internet sensation.
“Loki, where are you?” Almrud called. The playful tiger, who is now 308 pounds, came bounding forward.
“Hi, sweet boy,” she said, and Loki chuffed - a tiger sound that is a series of puffs signifying a friendly hello.
He seemed more confident, Gilbreth said. He liked his pool. The wind didn’t scare him anymore.
Almrud found it ludicrous anyone would own a tiger - an animal she thinks deserves to live in the wild. She did not let Garza visit him privately there, where he will live out his life behind 16-foot high fences.
The ranch spends about $23,000 a year caring for him.
“He was our celebrity,” Cottingham said.
“He’s able to just be a tiger now,” said Gilbreth.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Feds say women used fake coronavirus cough to rob San Francisco store

Two women robbed a Walgreens in San Francisco earlier this month by claiming they had “ COVID ” and coughing loudly to keep employees away , then piling merchandise into their bags and taking off , federal prosecutors said Friday .
Carmelita Barela and Rosetta Shabazz now stand accused of federal crimes for the April 6 encounter .
FBI Special Agent Lynn Reed said the two women coughed in a “ threatening manner ” as they walked through the store without masks .
The store manager came up to ask if they needed help and one of the women began @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to leave if she was sick , but both women ignored him and began shoving merchandise into their bags , the agent said in an affidavit .
“ We have covid , ” they told the manager .
The thieves made off with about $ 92 worth of items , the manager told the FBI .
Ms. Barela and Ms. Shabazz were caught on security footage , and when the pictures were circulated within the San Francisco Police Department , officers recognized the women .
“ It is an unfortunate reality that there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to take advantage of the current pandemic to prey on people ’ s fear of contracting COVID-19 , ” said David L. Anderson , the U.S. attorney for the northern district of California .
He and the FBI said they felt a particular duty to protect store employees who are working amid the coronavirus crisis .
Ms. Shabazz had her first court appearance and was released to home confinement .
Ms. Barela ’ s first appearance is Monday .
The arrests are the latest in a get-tough approach by federal prosecutors to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the U.S. attorney for the eastern district of New York announced charges against a man who ordered tons of gloves , sanitizer and masks and sold them at significant markups .

Two women robbed a Walgreens in San Francisco earlier this month by claiming they had “COVID” and coughing loudly to keep employees away, then piling merchandise into their bags and taking off, federal prosecutors said Friday.
Carmelita Barela and Rosetta Shabazz now stand accused of federal crimes for the April 6 encounter.
FBI Special Agent Lynn Reed said the two women coughed in a “threatening manner” as they walked through the store without masks.
The store manager came up to ask if they needed help and one of the women began coughing aggressively. The manager asked her to leave if she was sick, but both women ignored him and began shoving merchandise into their bags, the agent said in an affidavit.
“We have covid,” they told the manager.
The thieves made off with about $92 worth of items, the manager told the FBI.
Ms. Barela and Ms. Shabazz were caught on security footage, and when the pictures were circulated within the San Francisco Police Department, officers recognized the women.
“It is an unfortunate reality that there will be those in our community who try to take advantage of the current pandemic to prey on people’s fear of contracting COVID-19,” said David L. Anderson, the U.S. attorney for the northern district of California.
He and the FBI said they felt a particular duty to protect store employees who are working amid the coronavirus crisis.
Ms. Shabazz had her first court appearance and was released to home confinement. Ms. Barela’s first appearance is Monday.
The arrests are the latest in a get-tough approach by federal prosecutors to coronavirus crimes.
Earlier in the day, the U.S. attorney for the eastern district of New York announced charges against a man who ordered tons of gloves, sanitizer and masks and sold them at significant markups.
• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Man beaten in Dodgers parking lot sues team for negligence

LOS ANGELES ( AP ) - The Los Angeles Dodgers are being sued for negligence by a man who was attacked in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium and left with brain damage , his lawyers announced Friday .
The lawsuit , filed this week by Rafael Reyna and his wife , contends that the stadium lacked adequate security .
“ We have no comment ” on the lawsuit , team spokesman Joe Jareck said in an email .
Reyna , 45 , was attacked while walking to his car shortly after midnight on March 30 , 2019 , after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 5-4 win by the Arizona Diamondbacks , according to the lawsuit .
He was punched during an argument , authorities say .
The lawsuit said Reyna was on the phone with his wife , telling her that he was on his way home , when unknown attackers “ punched him repeatedly , causing him to collapse onto the asphalt , strike his head , and lose consciousness , ” while his wife heard the entire assault .
The parking lot lacked adequate lighting or security guards , and it took personnel at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longer for him to receive emergency medical care , the lawsuit alleged .
It seeks unspecified damages .
Reyna suffered a brain injury when his head hit the pavement , he spent days in a medically induced coma and the father of four still suffers effects of the injury , according to the lawsuit .
“ His wife knows he has months if not years of physical therapy lying ahead.
” Reyna ’ s lawyer , Carl Douglas , said in a statement .
Among other things , the lawsuit says the Dodgers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2008 and earlier as a cost-saving move - including ending the use of uniformed , off-duty Los Angeles police - and reintroducing in-seat beer sales in 2018 .
The lack of LAPD-uniformed security personnel “ emboldened wrongdoers at the stadium , ” according to the lawsuit .
“ As we all yearn for the return of baseball , this lawsuit reminds everyone that no team … can ever put their own thirst for profits over the safety of their loyal fans , ” Douglas said .
The lawsuit also alleged that the Dodgers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stow , a father of two and former paramedic from Santa Cruz , was left with permanent brain damage when the Giants fan was attacked in the parking lot after an Opening Day 2011 game .
Two men pleaded guilty to beating Stow and were sent to federal prison .
They also were ordered to pay a share of an $ 18 million judgment against the Dodgers in a lawsuit by Stow that alleged inadequate stadium security .

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Los Angeles Dodgers are being sued for negligence by a man who was attacked in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium and left with brain damage, his lawyers announced Friday.
The lawsuit, filed this week by Rafael Reyna and his wife, contends that the stadium lacked adequate security.
“We have no comment” on the lawsuit, team spokesman Joe Jareck said in an email.
Reyna, 45, was attacked while walking to his car shortly after midnight on March 30, 2019, after watching a 13-inning game that ended in a 5-4 win by the Arizona Diamondbacks, according to the lawsuit.
He was punched during an argument, authorities say.
The lawsuit said Reyna was on the phone with his wife, telling her that he was on his way home, when unknown attackers “punched him repeatedly, causing him to collapse onto the asphalt, strike his head, and lose consciousness,” while his wife heard the entire assault.
The parking lot lacked adequate lighting or security guards, and it took personnel at least 10 minutes to discover Reyna and longer for him to receive emergency medical care, the lawsuit alleged. It seeks unspecified damages.
Reyna suffered a brain injury when his head hit the pavement, he spent days in a medically induced coma and the father of four still suffers effects of the injury, according to the lawsuit.
“His wife knows he has months if not years of physical therapy lying ahead.” Reyna’s lawyer, Carl Douglas, said in a statement.
Among other things, the lawsuit says the Dodgers were negligent for reducing security staff in 2008 and earlier as a cost-saving move - including ending the use of uniformed, off-duty Los Angeles police - and reintroducing in-seat beer sales in 2018.
The lack of LAPD-uniformed security personnel “emboldened wrongdoers at the stadium,” according to the lawsuit.
“As we all yearn for the return of baseball, this lawsuit reminds everyone that no team … can ever put their own thirst for profits over the safety of their loyal fans,” Douglas said.
The lawsuit also alleged that the Dodgers were aware of previous violence.
Bryan Stow, a father of two and former paramedic from Santa Cruz, was left with permanent brain damage when the Giants fan was attacked in the parking lot after an Opening Day 2011 game.
Two men pleaded guilty to beating Stow and were sent to federal prison. They also were ordered to pay a share of an $18 million judgment against the Dodgers in a lawsuit by Stow that alleged inadequate stadium security.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Editorial Roundup: New England

Editorial Roundup: New England

Editorials from around New England : The coronavirus pandemic underscores how utterly interconnected we are on this planet .
Manmade borders , political beliefs , religion , gender , age , profession - none holds sway over an undiscriminating deadly virus .
And so in fighting the coronavirus we unite .
The same sense of common purpose must be engaged - widespread - to fight for Earth ’ s future .
The altered environment is a slower-moving tragedy than the current pandemic , but every bit as deadly .
Ultimately , even more so .
The alarm about climate change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years as scientists document the melting of the polar ice caps , which has far-reaching implications for weather patterns , economics and health .
But the response , despite the scientific evidence , has been mixed .
Some , even in high places , deny this is a manmade problem .
Denial , however , will not stop the severe weather-related eruptions around the world , from powerful hurricanes and tornadoes to vast wildfires .
One would expect that 50 years after the first Earth Day was observed we would be in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 22 , 1970 , people rose up to do something about the polluted air and water in this country .
Smog blanketed cities on hot days , rivers ran colors from rampant industrial waste , wildlife was imperiled , as Rachel Carson warned about the use of pesticides in her 1962 book “ Silent Spring.
” As a result , the Clean Water Act was enacted and the federal Environmental Protection Agency was formed .
Regulations worked for the betterment of all .
In Connecticut , we see the return of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthier environment .
But in other regards the state is behind .
An American Lung Association 2020 “ State of the Air ” report issued Tuesday gave Connecticut counties a failing grade for ozone pollution .
Small comfort that it ’ s better than last year .
An F grade places “ the health of its residents at risk , including those who are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution such as older adults , children and those with a lung disease , ” an association director said .
COVID-19 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drives home the fragility of lung health .
We are concerned that any progress since the first Earth Day is unraveling before our eyes .
The director of the EPA , a former lobbyist for the coal industry , has acted on administration goals to reduce helpful regulations , some under the mantle of dealing with the pandemic .
In March the EPA announced that power plants and factories could determine for themselves whether they could meet legal requirements for reporting air and water pollution .
They could monitor themselves , no fines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rolled back emission standards for vehicles .
The list goes on .
Earth Day 2020 was celebrated virtually as social distancing prevents large gatherings .
The theme of “ climate action ” is a rallying call for when we can reemerge .
We must re-energize and get active about fighting for the environment and saving Earth , for all its interconnected inhabitants .
Congress acts , at least for now , passing $ 484 billion coronavirus relief package When the going got tough , the Congress got going .
Thanks to House Speaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ established to assist businesses hit hard by the novel coronavirus pandemic ran dry soon after it was created late last month , some Republicans in the Senate hatched a plan to replenish the loan pool quickly , and to do nothing else while so doing .
Not so fast , said House Democratic leadership .
If we are going to do that , we need , at a minimum , to add badly needed funds for hospitals and to help set up additional testing .
Though the architects of the initial plan barked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly died down , and Congress wisely passed a bill not only to refill the fund , but also to do some more of what needed to be done .
The Senate passed the bill unanimously on Tuesday , and the House followed suit , passing the $ 484 billion coronavirus relief package with a vote of 388-5 , on Thursday .
Now , members of Congress head home , and the appropriated money , one hopes , gets to the businesses that need it most .
And their employees .
This means @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chains that know how to game the system .
Which is not to suggest that big is bad , or that employees of chain restaurants aren ’ t hurting .
But what ’ s undeniable is this : A big corporation is much better positioned to weather this storm than is an actual small business , such as a corner restaurant with just a small handful of employees and the owners working seemingly all day , every day .
That ’ s the sort of place that the Paycheck Protection Program was established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aided by the money in the newly replenished fund .
That ’ s the good news , for now , anyway .
But for Congress and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin , who has been doing much of the negotiating for the White House , with the president little involved in the day-to-day , it ’ s also yesterday ’ s news .
Because everyone knows that there ’ s much , much more work ahead .
And very likely some brewing disagreements , too .
In just the past few weeks , Congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best at partisan bickering over substance and needless fights over nothing , has come together to pass nearly $ 3 trillion in emergency spending .
How long such concord will last , especially in an election year , is anyone ’ s guess .
On Thursday , Mike Somers , the president of the New Hampshire Restaurant and Lodging Association recommended reopening the food and hotel industry in four stages , starting with outdoor dining as the weather warms up .
Somers , who was the first industry representative to address the Governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he ’ d love to see phase 1 as early as May 5 , the day after the state ’ s stay-at-home order is set to expire .
“ As we get into warm weather here , I think if we don ’ t start to give customers and consumers some things to do , whether it ’ s dining outdoors , visiting retail , whatever it might be , we ’ re gon na lose control of this , ” he said .
However , Gov .
Chris Sununu has said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beyond May 4 to prevent the continued spread of the coronavirus .
As of Thursday , more than 1,600 people in New Hampshire had tested positive for the virus and 51 had died .
Thirty of the deaths have been associated with institutional outbreaks .
For most people , the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms , such as fever and cough , that clear up in two to three weeks .
For some , especially older adults and the infirm , it can cause more severe illness , including pneumonia , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a heavy emphasis on screening workers for illness , sanitation and social distancing .
He suggested restaurants could add outdoor picnic tables initially , and then gradually resume regular indoor dining .
At-risk populations would be encouraged to remain home for the first two , maybe three , phases , he said .
While this would be great for restarting the Granite State ’ s economy , in practice it likely is too soon to even think of allowing outdoor dining , especially since we are seeing more than two dozen new cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Granite State .
The last thing that should be done is to jump the gun and put people at risk of contracting the disease .
Slow and steady is the best approach .
Rhode Island is a state highly dependent on small businesses and the service economy .
It has relatively little manufacturing .
Small business is the lifeblood of Rhode Island , essential to its future .
Thus , the decision of state officials to shut down much of the economy has dealt a brutal blow to the people .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of work and have applied for unemployment benefits .
Many small businesses - built through years of sweat and sacrifice - are at imminent risk of collapse and bankruptcy because they dutifully followed government dictates designed to protect the public ’ s health .
To try to keep small businesses going until the coronavirus panic passes and government permits economic activity again , Congress passed the Payroll Protection Program .
Obviously , it did not aim high enough .
In only 14 days , its $ 349 billion had been assigned , leaving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frozen out .
Without a bridge , many of these businesses - employing multiple people - will vanish .
Permanently .
Congress should have given this program a new infusion already .
But House Democrats are blocking that , saying they will go along only if a laundry list of partisan goodies is attached .
As we write this , negotiations are dragging on .
Rhode Island ’ s representatives - David Cicilline and James Langevin - ought to be insisting that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi drop these conditions and get relief out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rhode Island small businesses survive this crisis .
It is understandable , perhaps , that legislators who have never run businesses fail to grasp how dire this situation is .
Many House members are millionaires , or close to it , their paychecks have been uninterrupted , and they do not have to worry about survival .
Underscoring the point was a remote interview last week with Speaker Pelosi , one of the richest members of Congress .
Jovially , she pointed to her $ 12-a-pint gourmet ice cream , pulled out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , meanwhile , tens of thousands of people are desperate to stay afloat and return to work .
Through no fault of their own , they have been ordered by the governor to the sidelines .
They include working-class whites , African Americans and Latinos , constituents who should matter to Messrs. Cicilline and Langevin .
This is not a traditional welfare program .
This is designed to keep small businesses - as we say , the lifeblood of Rhode Island - from perishing .
This is designed to keep jobs alive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will lose their homes .
They and their children will go hungry and get sick .
Crime will explode .
This is a time when we look for representatives to rise above partisanship .
Each day of inaction is doing permanent harm to Rhode Islanders .
This is not representation .
Congress must return to work and replenish the Payroll Protection Program .
Vermonters should be upset about a proposal on the table to close two crucial college campuses .
On Friday , Chancellor Jeb Spaulding recommended that three of the system ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in large part to the economic shock produced by the COVID-19 epidemic .
He said the long-struggling system faces a deficit this school year of between $ 7 million and $ 10 million , including $ 5.6 million for refunds of room and board fees and moving to online learning .
This year ’ s deficit includes the expected $ 3 million in federal assistance .
Next year ’ s deficit could reach $ 12 million .
The proposal would close the Lyndon , Johnson and Randolph campuses .
Liberal arts programs in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Castleton University .
The Community College “ will maintain its key role providing a statewide network of access to academic programs , workforce development and student advising , ” Spaulding said .
In a statement , Spaulding said the decisions are necessary to preserve the Vermont State College system for generations to come .
“ We are in truly unprecedented times like nothing we have ever experienced before in our lifetimes and we know the impacts of COVID-19 will linger for months , maybe years , ” Spaulding said .
“ We can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we must act decisively to chart a course toward long-term viability.
” His proposal drew the ire of Vermonters , ranging from Republican Gov .
Phil Scott to the Democratic legislative leadership - House Speaker Mitzi Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe , as well as former Minority Leader , Don Turner and Lt. Gov .
David Zuckerman .
Even candidates running for governor against Scott , including the former secretary of the Agency of Education , urged a delay in the vote and a rethinking of the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
On the heels of several Vermont colleges closing in the last year , what message does it send to potential students - not just in Vermont but from away .
It says , “ Don ’ t invest in Vermont colleges .
Don ’ t come here.
” Spaulding , a former secretary of administration under former Democratic Gov .
Peter Shumlin , knows full well what the stakes were for Vermont before the pandemic chewed apart the global economy .
Potentially sacrificing a part of our college system - one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer - is foolhardy and reckless .
And the decision would be devastating to the Northeast Kingdom , a region of the state already struggling economically , as well as in Randolph , which has seen a resurgence in recent years .
During the weekend , signs in support of the schools appeared on roads and highways leading to the schools from all directions .
And on Monday , a long , loud parade of protesters - all socially distancing from their vehicles but making their point loud and clear - clogged the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the writing of this editorial , the Vermont State College board of trustees and Chancellor Spaulding were getting an earful from angry Vermonters , who were insisting the proposal be thrown out and cutbacks be sought elsewhere .
Spaulding is in a pickle , for sure .
Even with everyone hating on him right now , he is out of options as far as making the finances of the Vermont State College system work .
VSCS has been plagued for years with declining enrollment because of the aging of Vermont ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has about 11,000 degree-seeking students and 9,000 adults participating in continuing education programs .
It includes the two campuses of Northern Vermont University in Johnson and Lyndon ; Vermont Technical College , which is based in Randolph but has a campus in Williston ; Castleton University and the Community College of Vermont .
We see why he thought it could be done .
His proposal is described as a whole system transformation that would eliminate duplication of programs , reduce overhead and invest in programs that are in high demand , economically viable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vermont students .
The closure of the three residential campuses , expected by the start of the 2020-21 academic year , would cost about 500 people their jobs .
The chancellor ’ s office will be restructured and downsized as well .
“ We know this represents more unwelcome change for students , employees and community members in an already stressful environment , but now more than ever , we urge people to recognize this transformation is critical to a sustainable future for public higher education in Vermont , ” Spaulding said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and one that Spaulding is going to have to bear .
He has drawn the ire of an entire state , top to bottom , from the leadership to the resident , from Alburgh to Bennington .
Hopefully , with counsel from lawmakers and the administration , a different solution can be found .
Little to celebrate this Earth Day , but innovation and cooperation offer hope Wednesday marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day , a day set aside beginning in 1970 to bring attention to environmental concerns .
To say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a huge understatement .
With more than 2 million cases of the novel coronavirus confirmed around the world and more than 171,000 deaths attributed to the illness , many countries are essentially in lockdown .
Most people , other than essential workers , don ’ t venture far from their homes .
Stores and other businesses are shuttered , putting more than 20 million Americans out of work .
Many hospitals , especially in densely populated urban areas , are overwhelmed .
It is a grim time .
Yet , around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - allowing clear views of the Los Angeles skyline , and the Himalayan Mountains can be seen in parts of India for the first time in generations .
Waterways in Italy are flowing clear .
Carbon dioxide pollution over China has been dramatically reduced as factories around the world are shuttered or slowed down and far fewer vehicles are on roadways .
We would in no way suggest that this is a good tradeoff , but the cleaner skies and healthier rivers are a reminder that when shuttered factories restart , when more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workplaces , when grounded passenger planes return the skies , we must continue the work to improve the health of our planet , and its inhabitants .
The coronavirus pandemic also shows the power of innovation and global cooperation .
New tests to detect coronavirus were developed quickly .
Vaccine research is advancing at blazing speeds .
Maine companies pivoted from making shoes , sails and dog beds to producing face masks and other protective equipment for health care personnel and first responders .
Maine distilleries and breweries quickly converted from producing alcohol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Restaurants and brew pubs went from serving meals indoors to providing food and beverages curbside and by delivery .
Hundreds of companies have donated time and goods to helping others .
Once COVID-19 is vanquished , we must harness this power of innovation to tackle climate change , which also threatens our wellbeing , just on a much slower timetable than a global pandemic .
“ As we move to restart these economies , we need to use this moment to think about what we value , ” Jacqueline Klopp , co-director of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Columbia University in New York City told NBC News .
“ Do we want to go back to the status quo , or do we want to tackle these big structural problems and restructure our economy and reduce emissions and pollution ?
” We should also not accept using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to roll back environmental protections .
Yet , that is what the Trump administration is doing .
In late March , the Environmental Protection Agency told companies they are exempt from reporting and compliance requirements “ if compliance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic .
“ This is an open license to pollute .
Plain and simple , ” Gina McCarthy , president and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council and a former EPA Administrator under President Barack Obama , said in a press release .
“ The administration should be giving its all toward making our country healthier right now .
… We can all appreciate the need for additional caution and flexibility in a time of crisis , but this brazen directive is an abdication of the EPA ’ s responsibility to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American was focused on the spread of coronavirus , the Trump administration also rolled back fuel economy standards , which it had long said it planned to do .
Lowering gas mileage standards will cost Americans money , worsen the health of many and stall reductions in pollution from vehicles .
Several automakers said last year that they would continue with more stringent standards set by California and followed by more than a dozen states , including Maine .
The Trump administration has revoked California ’ s authority to set higher standards , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in court .
There isn ’ t much to celebrate this Earth Day .
But , there is some hope in seeing what is possible when Americans - and others around the world - work together to overcome huge challenges .

Editorials from around New England:
CONNECTICUT
Re-energize to fight for planet Earth
New Haven Register
April 22
The coronavirus pandemic underscores how utterly interconnected we are on this planet. Manmade borders, political beliefs, religion, gender, age, profession - none holds sway over an undiscriminating deadly virus.
And so in fighting the coronavirus we unite. The same sense of common purpose must be engaged - widespread - to fight for Earth’s future.
The altered environment is a slower-moving tragedy than the current pandemic, but every bit as deadly. Ultimately, even more so.
The alarm about climate change from global warming has been sounded for years as scientists document the melting of the polar ice caps, which has far-reaching implications for weather patterns, economics and health. But the response, despite the scientific evidence, has been mixed.
Some, even in high places, deny this is a manmade problem. Denial, however, will not stop the severe weather-related eruptions around the world, from powerful hurricanes and tornadoes to vast wildfires.
One would expect that 50 years after the first Earth Day was observed we would be in a much better place of stewardship.
On April 22, 1970, people rose up to do something about the polluted air and water in this country. Smog blanketed cities on hot days, rivers ran colors from rampant industrial waste, wildlife was imperiled, as Rachel Carson warned about the use of pesticides in her 1962 book “Silent Spring.”
As a result, the Clean Water Act was enacted and the federal Environmental Protection Agency was formed. Regulations worked for the betterment of all.
In Connecticut, we see the return of the bald eagle population as testament to a healthier environment. But in other regards the state is behind. An American Lung Association 2020 “State of the Air” report issued Tuesday gave Connecticut counties a failing grade for ozone pollution.
Small comfort that it’s better than last year. An F grade places “the health of its residents at risk, including those who are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution such as older adults, children and those with a lung disease,” an association director said. COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, drives home the fragility of lung health.
We are concerned that any progress since the first Earth Day is unraveling before our eyes. The director of the EPA, a former lobbyist for the coal industry, has acted on administration goals to reduce helpful regulations, some under the mantle of dealing with the pandemic.
In March the EPA announced that power plants and factories could determine for themselves whether they could meet legal requirements for reporting air and water pollution. They could monitor themselves, no fines. The same month the EPA aggressively rolled back emission standards for vehicles. The list goes on.
Earth Day 2020 was celebrated virtually as social distancing prevents large gatherings. The theme of “climate action” is a rallying call for when we can reemerge.
We must re-energize and get active about fighting for the environment and saving Earth, for all its interconnected inhabitants.
Online: https://bit.ly/2XZQnqR
___
MASSACHUSETTS
Congress acts, at least for now, passing $484 billion coronavirus relief package
The Republican of Springfield
April 24
When the going got tough, the Congress got going. Thanks to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
After an emergency fund established to assist businesses hit hard by the novel coronavirus pandemic ran dry soon after it was created late last month, some Republicans in the Senate hatched a plan to replenish the loan pool quickly, and to do nothing else while so doing. Not so fast, said House Democratic leadership. If we are going to do that, we need, at a minimum, to add badly needed funds for hospitals and to help set up additional testing.
Though the architects of the initial plan barked over the delay, the partisan dustup quickly died down, and Congress wisely passed a bill not only to refill the fund, but also to do some more of what needed to be done.
The Senate passed the bill unanimously on Tuesday, and the House followed suit, passing the $484 billion coronavirus relief package with a vote of 388-5, on Thursday. Now, members of Congress head home, and the appropriated money, one hopes, gets to the businesses that need it most. And their employees.
This means actual small businesses, not the well-connected chains that know how to game the system. Which is not to suggest that big is bad, or that employees of chain restaurants aren’t hurting. But what’s undeniable is this: A big corporation is much better positioned to weather this storm than is an actual small business, such as a corner restaurant with just a small handful of employees and the owners working seemingly all day, every day.
That’s the sort of place that the Paycheck Protection Program was established to help, and that will be aided by the money in the newly replenished fund.
That’s the good news, for now, anyway. But for Congress and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who has been doing much of the negotiating for the White House, with the president little involved in the day-to-day, it’s also yesterday’s news. Because everyone knows that there’s much, much more work ahead. And very likely some brewing disagreements, too.
In just the past few weeks, Congress, which in recent times has been best at partisan bickering over substance and needless fights over nothing, has come together to pass nearly $3 trillion in emergency spending. How long such concord will last, especially in an election year, is anyone’s guess.
Online: https://bit.ly/2KzKIQl
___
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Slow and steady
Nashua Telegraph
April 24
On Thursday, Mike Somers, the president of the New Hampshire Restaurant and Lodging Association recommended reopening the food and hotel industry in four stages, starting with outdoor dining as the weather warms up.
Somers, who was the first industry representative to address the Governor’s Economic Re-Opening Task Force, said he’d love to see phase 1 as early as May 5, the day after the state’s stay-at-home order is set to expire.
“As we get into warm weather here, I think if we don’t start to give customers and consumers some things to do, whether it’s dining outdoors, visiting retail, whatever it might be, we’re gonna lose control of this,” he said.
However, Gov. Chris Sununu has said the stay-at-home order likely will be extended beyond May 4 to prevent the continued spread of the coronavirus.
As of Thursday, more than 1,600 people in New Hampshire had tested positive for the virus and 51 had died. Thirty of the deaths have been associated with institutional outbreaks.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and the infirm, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.
The plan Somers outlined included a heavy emphasis on screening workers for illness, sanitation and social distancing. He suggested restaurants could add outdoor picnic tables initially, and then gradually resume regular indoor dining. At-risk populations would be encouraged to remain home for the first two, maybe three, phases, he said.
While this would be great for restarting the Granite State’s economy, in practice it likely is too soon to even think of allowing outdoor dining, especially since we are seeing more than two dozen new cases, on average, per day in the Granite State.
The last thing that should be done is to jump the gun and put people at risk of contracting the disease. Slow and steady is the best approach.
Online: https://bit.ly/2S6H9Fh
___
RHODE ISLAND
Time to save R.I. businesses
The Providence Journal
April 19
Rhode Island is a state highly dependent on small businesses and the service economy. It has relatively little manufacturing. Small business is the lifeblood of Rhode Island, essential to its future.
Thus, the decision of state officials to shut down much of the economy has dealt a brutal blow to the people. A staggering 144,000 people have been thrown out of work and have applied for unemployment benefits.
Many small businesses - built through years of sweat and sacrifice - are at imminent risk of collapse and bankruptcy because they dutifully followed government dictates designed to protect the public’s health.
To try to keep small businesses going until the coronavirus panic passes and government permits economic activity again, Congress passed the Payroll Protection Program.
Obviously, it did not aim high enough. In only 14 days, its $349 billion had been assigned, leaving countless businesses - and their employees - frozen out.
Without a bridge, many of these businesses - employing multiple people - will vanish. Permanently.
Congress should have given this program a new infusion already. But House Democrats are blocking that, saying they will go along only if a laundry list of partisan goodies is attached. As we write this, negotiations are dragging on.
Rhode Island’s representatives - David Cicilline and James Langevin - ought to be insisting that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi drop these conditions and get relief out immediately.
Their job is to help Rhode Island small businesses survive this crisis.
It is understandable, perhaps, that legislators who have never run businesses fail to grasp how dire this situation is. Many House members are millionaires, or close to it, their paychecks have been uninterrupted, and they do not have to worry about survival.
Underscoring the point was a remote interview last week with Speaker Pelosi, one of the richest members of Congress. Jovially, she pointed to her $12-a-pint gourmet ice cream, pulled out of a top-dollar refrigerator.
In Rhode Island, meanwhile, tens of thousands of people are desperate to stay afloat and return to work. Through no fault of their own, they have been ordered by the governor to the sidelines. They include working-class whites, African Americans and Latinos, constituents who should matter to Messrs. Cicilline and Langevin.
This is not a traditional welfare program. This is designed to keep small businesses - as we say, the lifeblood of Rhode Island - from perishing. This is designed to keep jobs alive.
If people cannot work, they will lose their homes. They and their children will go hungry and get sick. Crime will explode.
This is a time when we look for representatives to rise above partisanship.
Each day of inaction is doing permanent harm to Rhode Islanders. This is not representation.
Congress must return to work and replenish the Payroll Protection Program.
Online: https://bit.ly/2KB4mLy
___
VERMONT
Another solution
The Rutland Herald
April 20
Vermonters should be upset about a proposal on the table to close two crucial college campuses.
On Friday, Chancellor Jeb Spaulding recommended that three of the system’s residential campuses be closed as result in large part to the economic shock produced by the COVID-19 epidemic.
He said the long-struggling system faces a deficit this school year of between $7 million and $10 million, including $5.6 million for refunds of room and board fees and moving to online learning. This year’s deficit includes the expected $3 million in federal assistance. Next year’s deficit could reach $12 million.
The proposal would close the Lyndon, Johnson and Randolph campuses. Liberal arts programs in Johnson and Lyndon would be moved to Castleton University.
The Community College “will maintain its key role providing a statewide network of access to academic programs, workforce development and student advising,” Spaulding said.
In a statement, Spaulding said the decisions are necessary to preserve the Vermont State College system for generations to come.
“We are in truly unprecedented times like nothing we have ever experienced before in our lifetimes and we know the impacts of COVID-19 will linger for months, maybe years,” Spaulding said. “We cannot wait and hope for recovery, we must act decisively to chart a course toward long-term viability.”
His proposal drew the ire of Vermonters, ranging from Republican Gov. Phil Scott to the Democratic legislative leadership - House Speaker Mitzi Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Tim Ashe, as well as former Minority Leader, Don Turner and Lt. Gov. David Zuckerman. Even candidates running for governor against Scott, including the former secretary of the Agency of Education, urged a delay in the vote and a rethinking of the state’s priorities.
We could not agree more. On the heels of several Vermont colleges closing in the last year, what message does it send to potential students - not just in Vermont but from away. It says, “Don’t invest in Vermont colleges. Don’t come here.”
Spaulding, a former secretary of administration under former Democratic Gov. Peter Shumlin, knows full well what the stakes were for Vermont before the pandemic chewed apart the global economy. Potentially sacrificing a part of our college system - one of the very greatest assets Vermont has to offer - is foolhardy and reckless. And the decision would be devastating to the Northeast Kingdom, a region of the state already struggling economically, as well as in Randolph, which has seen a resurgence in recent years.
During the weekend, signs in support of the schools appeared on roads and highways leading to the schools from all directions. And on Monday, a long, loud parade of protesters - all socially distancing from their vehicles but making their point loud and clear - clogged the streets of the Capital City.
As of the writing of this editorial, the Vermont State College board of trustees and Chancellor Spaulding were getting an earful from angry Vermonters, who were insisting the proposal be thrown out and cutbacks be sought elsewhere.
Spaulding is in a pickle, for sure. Even with everyone hating on him right now, he is out of options as far as making the finances of the Vermont State College system work.
VSCS has been plagued for years with declining enrollment because of the aging of Vermont’s population and other challenges. The system has about 11,000 degree-seeking students and 9,000 adults participating in continuing education programs. It includes the two campuses of Northern Vermont University in Johnson and Lyndon; Vermont Technical College, which is based in Randolph but has a campus in Williston; Castleton University and the Community College of Vermont.
We see why he thought it could be done. His proposal is described as a whole system transformation that would eliminate duplication of programs, reduce overhead and invest in programs that are in high demand, economically viable and that provide high-demand career opportunities for Vermont students.
The closure of the three residential campuses, expected by the start of the 2020-21 academic year, would cost about 500 people their jobs. The chancellor’s office will be restructured and downsized as well.
“We know this represents more unwelcome change for students, employees and community members in an already stressful environment, but now more than ever, we urge people to recognize this transformation is critical to a sustainable future for public higher education in Vermont,” Spaulding said.
That is proving to be an understatement, and one that Spaulding is going to have to bear. He has drawn the ire of an entire state, top to bottom, from the leadership to the resident, from Alburgh to Bennington.
Hopefully, with counsel from lawmakers and the administration, a different solution can be found.
Online: https://bit.ly/3eQBLA4
___
Little to celebrate this Earth Day, but innovation and cooperation offer hope
Bangor Daily News
April 21
Wednesday marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, a day set aside beginning in 1970 to bring attention to environmental concerns. To say that Earth Day this year is different is a huge understatement.
With more than 2 million cases of the novel coronavirus confirmed around the world and more than 171,000 deaths attributed to the illness, many countries are essentially in lockdown. Most people, other than essential workers, don’t venture far from their homes. Stores and other businesses are shuttered, putting more than 20 million Americans out of work.
Many hospitals, especially in densely populated urban areas, are overwhelmed. It is a grim time.
Yet, around the world, skies are freer from pollution - allowing clear views of the Los Angeles skyline, and the Himalayan Mountains can be seen in parts of India for the first time in generations. Waterways in Italy are flowing clear. Carbon dioxide pollution over China has been dramatically reduced as factories around the world are shuttered or slowed down and far fewer vehicles are on roadways.
We would in no way suggest that this is a good tradeoff, but the cleaner skies and healthier rivers are a reminder that when shuttered factories restart, when more people resume commuting to offices and other workplaces, when grounded passenger planes return the skies, we must continue the work to improve the health of our planet, and its inhabitants.
The coronavirus pandemic also shows the power of innovation and global cooperation.
New tests to detect coronavirus were developed quickly. Vaccine research is advancing at blazing speeds. Maine companies pivoted from making shoes, sails and dog beds to producing face masks and other protective equipment for health care personnel and first responders. Maine distilleries and breweries quickly converted from producing alcohol to making and bottling hand sanitizer. Restaurants and brew pubs went from serving meals indoors to providing food and beverages curbside and by delivery. Hundreds of companies have donated time and goods to helping others.
Once COVID-19 is vanquished, we must harness this power of innovation to tackle climate change, which also threatens our wellbeing, just on a much slower timetable than a global pandemic.
“As we move to restart these economies, we need to use this moment to think about what we value,” Jacqueline Klopp, co-director of the Center for Sustainable Urban Development at Columbia University in New York City told NBC News. “Do we want to go back to the status quo, or do we want to tackle these big structural problems and restructure our economy and reduce emissions and pollution?”
We should also not accept using the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to roll back environmental protections. Yet, that is what the Trump administration is doing.
In late March, the Environmental Protection Agency told companies they are exempt from reporting and compliance requirements “if compliance is not reasonably practicable” because of the pandemic.
“This is an open license to pollute. Plain and simple,” Gina McCarthy, president and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council and a former EPA Administrator under President Barack Obama, said in a press release. “The administration should be giving its all toward making our country healthier right now. … We can all appreciate the need for additional caution and flexibility in a time of crisis, but this brazen directive is an abdication of the EPA’s responsibility to protect our health.”
While much of American was focused on the spread of coronavirus, the Trump administration also rolled back fuel economy standards, which it had long said it planned to do. Lowering gas mileage standards will cost Americans money, worsen the health of many and stall reductions in pollution from vehicles. Several automakers said last year that they would continue with more stringent standards set by California and followed by more than a dozen states, including Maine. The Trump administration has revoked California’s authority to set higher standards, but the state has challenged that move in court.
There isn’t much to celebrate this Earth Day. But, there is some hope in seeing what is possible when Americans - and others around the world - work together to overcome huge challenges.
Online: https://bit.ly/3eRyQa2
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washingtontimes--2020-04-24--White House could alter virus briefings to limit Trump role

WASHINGTON ( AP ) - For the first time , President Donald Trump cut off his daily coronavirus task force briefing on Friday without taking any questions from reporters .
It may not be the last time .
There have been discussions within the White House about changing the format of the briefings to curtail the president ’ s role , according to four White House officials and Republicans close to the White House who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly .
The briefings often stretch well beyond an hour and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Trump was angry after a day of punishing headlines Friday , largely about his comment at the previous evening ’ s briefing wondering if it would be helpful to inject disinfectant into people to fight the coronavirus .
That idea drew loud warnings from health experts who said the idea was dangerous and sharp criticism from Democrats .
Trump did answer questions from reporters earlier Friday and claimed that his suggestion about disinfectant had been “ sarcastic.
” That doesn ’ t square with a transcript of his remarks .
For weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to scale back his appearances at the briefings , saying that he should come before the cameras only when there is major news or a positive development to discuss , according to the officials .
Otherwise , they suggested , he should leave it to Vice President Mike Pence and health officials to take the lead .
Trump has been reluctant to cede the spotlight at the briefings , which are the closest thing he currently has to his beloved political rallies .
He has talked up their robust television ratings and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drown out his likely general election opponent , Democrat Joe Biden .
But advisers have argued that while the briefings may appeal to his most loyal base of supporters , they could be alienating some viewers , including senior citizens worried about their health .
Officials at Trump ’ s reelection campaign have also noted a slip in Trump ’ s support in some battleground states and have expressed concerns that the briefings , which often contain inaccurate information , may be playing a role .
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” earlier in the day from reporters in the Oval Office .
“ The accessibility and transparency of this President is unprecedented , ” she said .
Trump , who is known for changing his mind , has not committed to any permanent change in the briefing format , the officials said .
It was unclear if Trump ’ s decision not to take questions on Friday was connected to a kerfuffle in the briefing room moments before the task force presentation began .
A White House official had asked that two reporters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the CNN correspondent farther back in the room .
CNN is a frequent target of Trump ’ s criticism .

WASHINGTON (AP) - For the first time, President Donald Trump cut off his daily coronavirus task force briefing on Friday without taking any questions from reporters. It may not be the last time.
There have been discussions within the White House about changing the format of the briefings to curtail the president’s role, according to four White House officials and Republicans close to the White House who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. The briefings often stretch well beyond an hour and feature combative exchanges between Trump and reporters.
Trump was angry after a day of punishing headlines Friday, largely about his comment at the previous evening’s briefing wondering if it would be helpful to inject disinfectant into people to fight the coronavirus. That idea drew loud warnings from health experts who said the idea was dangerous and sharp criticism from Democrats.
Trump did answer questions from reporters earlier Friday and claimed that his suggestion about disinfectant had been “sarcastic.” That doesn’t square with a transcript of his remarks.
For weeks, advisers have been urging the president to scale back his appearances at the briefings, saying that he should come before the cameras only when there is major news or a positive development to discuss, according to the officials. Otherwise, they suggested, he should leave it to Vice President Mike Pence and health officials to take the lead.
Trump has been reluctant to cede the spotlight at the briefings, which are the closest thing he currently has to his beloved political rallies. He has talked up their robust television ratings and his ability to dominate the news cycle and drown out his likely general election opponent, Democrat Joe Biden.
But advisers have argued that while the briefings may appeal to his most loyal base of supporters, they could be alienating some viewers, including senior citizens worried about their health. Officials at Trump’s reelection campaign have also noted a slip in Trump’s support in some battleground states and have expressed concerns that the briefings, which often contain inaccurate information, may be playing a role.
White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the president had taken “countless questions” earlier in the day from reporters in the Oval Office. “The accessibility and transparency of this President is unprecedented,” she said.
Trump, who is known for changing his mind, has not committed to any permanent change in the briefing format, the officials said.
It was unclear if Trump’s decision not to take questions on Friday was connected to a kerfuffle in the briefing room moments before the task force presentation began. A White House official had asked that two reporters switch seats, which would have sent the CNN correspondent farther back in the room. CNN is a frequent target of Trump’s criticism.
The reporters declined to move.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--California senior meals program has eligibility restrictions

SACRAMENTO , Calif. ( AP ) - Gov .
Gavin Newsom on Friday said restaurants across California that have been struggling to stay afloat during the coronavirus economic shutdown will soon begin providing millions of subsidized meals to qualifying senior citizens .
He outlined the first-in-the-nation “ Restaurants Deliver : Home Meals for Seniors ” program but didn ’ t say when it would start .
The state ’ s official website sign-up said information “ will be available soon.
” His administration said many of the decisions will be made by local officials .
Here ’ s some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or older or otherwise high-risk because they have the coronavirus ; were exposed to the coronavirus as documented by a public health official or medical professional ; or have an underlying health condition .
Participants must live alone or with one other eligible adult .
They can ’ t be receiving assistance from other federal nutrition programs and can have income of no more than $ 74,940 for an individual or $ 101,460 for two .
That is 600 % of the federal poverty level .
They must state they are unable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHAT WILL BE PROVIDED ?
An “ unlimited number of meals , ” Newsom said : three a day , seven days a week .
Restaurants will be reimbursed up to $ 66 per day : $ 16 for breakfast , $ 17 for lunch and $ 27 for dinner , and an additional $ 5 for “ incidental expenses.
” But no junk food .
The state will set nutritional guidelines , but leave it to local jurisdictions to decide which restaurants qualify .
Although it ’ s not clear how the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will be an emphasis on locally produced produce , independent restaurants and a “ diversity of options ” and meals .
State guidance is that breakfast be low in sodium and with 100 % fruit juices .
Lunch and dinner must also must be low salt and include a piece of fresh fruit or vegetable on each dish .
The federal government will reimburse 75 % of the cost and location governments will pick up the rest .
The state will then reimburse three-quarters of the local cost .
Newsom said local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taxes collected on the meals .
Newsom provided no estimate of an overall cost for the program but said he thought “ millions ” of the state ’ s 5.7 million people 65 and older could qualify .
If just one million sign up and get all $ 66 per day the cost would be about $ 2 billion per month .
Newsom said the program will continue as long as the virus crisis persists .
HOW CAN YOU SIGN UP ?
Stay tuned .
The state ’ s website says “ as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next few days , more information will be provided.
” Newsom said seniors can call their local 2-1-1 information network call centers if they have one , or go to the state website .
The state also plans an outreach program .
Officials say participants can apply with a phone call and provide “ self-certification ” on the eligibility requirements listed above , similar to the way they can assert that they are eligible for other disaster programs .

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Gov. Gavin Newsom on Friday said restaurants across California that have been struggling to stay afloat during the coronavirus economic shutdown will soon begin providing millions of subsidized meals to qualifying senior citizens.
He outlined the first-in-the-nation “Restaurants Deliver: Home Meals for Seniors” program but didn’t say when it would start. The state’s official website sign-up said information “will be available soon.” His administration said many of the decisions will be made by local officials.
Here’s some of what’s known:
WHO QUALIFIES?
Those 65 or older or otherwise high-risk because they have the coronavirus; were exposed to the coronavirus as documented by a public health official or medical professional; or have an underlying health condition.
Participants must live alone or with one other eligible adult. They can’t be receiving assistance from other federal nutrition programs and can have income of no more than $74,940 for an individual or $101,460 for two. That is 600% of the federal poverty level.
They must state they are unable to prepare or obtain their own meals.
WHAT WILL BE PROVIDED?
An “unlimited number of meals,” Newsom said: three a day, seven days a week. Restaurants will be reimbursed up to $66 per day: $16 for breakfast, $17 for lunch and $27 for dinner, and an additional $5 for “incidental expenses.”
But no junk food. The state will set nutritional guidelines, but leave it to local jurisdictions to decide which restaurants qualify. Although it’s not clear how the guidelines will be enforced, Newsom said there will be an emphasis on locally produced produce, independent restaurants and a “diversity of options” and meals.
State guidance is that breakfast be low in sodium and with 100% fruit juices. Lunch and dinner must also must be low salt and include a piece of fresh fruit or vegetable on each dish.
WHO PAYS?
The federal government will reimburse 75% of the cost and location governments will pick up the rest. The state will then reimburse three-quarters of the local cost. Newsom said local governments will benefit from the the sales taxes collected on the meals.
Newsom provided no estimate of an overall cost for the program but said he thought “millions” of the state’s 5.7 million people 65 and older could qualify. If just one million sign up and get all $66 per day the cost would be about $2 billion per month.
Newsom said the program will continue as long as the virus crisis persists.
HOW CAN YOU SIGN UP?
Stay tuned. The state’s website says “as the local programs get established in the next few days, more information will be provided.” Newsom said seniors can call their local 2-1-1 information network call centers if they have one, or go to the state website. The state also plans an outreach program.
Officials say participants can apply with a phone call and provide “self-certification” on the eligibility requirements listed above, similar to the way they can assert that they are eligible for other disaster programs.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Burgum declares statewide flood emergency in North Dakota

BISMARCK , N.D. ( AP ) - Gov .
Doug Burgum on Friday declared a statewide flood emergency in North Dakota to deal with spring flooding that so far has caused an estimated $ 7 million in damage to infrastructure .
The order officially puts all state agencies , including the North Dakota National Guard , on standby to provide resources as needed , the governor ’ s office said .
The order also activates the State Emergency Operations Plan to assist local and tribal officials and help restore services and infrastructure Fourteen counties in eastern and central North Dakota @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is potentially eligible for a presidential disaster declaration request , Burgum ’ s office said .
The North Dakota Department of Transportation also estimates nearly $ 1.8 million in additional damage that could be eligible for federal relief .
“ Overland flooding and near-record river crests have caused extensive damage to state , county , city and township roads at a time when the state is also responding to the catastrophic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and extremely challenging economic conditions , ” Burgum said in a statement .
With the emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of Emergency Services will partner with local agencies to conduct damage assessments and then make a recommendation to Burgum on whether to seek a presidential disaster declaration .

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - Gov. Doug Burgum on Friday declared a statewide flood emergency in North Dakota to deal with spring flooding that so far has caused an estimated $7 million in damage to infrastructure.
The order officially puts all state agencies, including the North Dakota National Guard, on standby to provide resources as needed, the governor’s office said. The order also activates the State Emergency Operations Plan to assist local and tribal officials and help restore services and infrastructure
Fourteen counties in eastern and central North Dakota estimated over $5.2 million in damage that is potentially eligible for a presidential disaster declaration request, Burgum’s office said.
The North Dakota Department of Transportation also estimates nearly $1.8 million in additional damage that could be eligible for federal relief.
“Overland flooding and near-record river crests have caused extensive damage to state, county, city and township roads at a time when the state is also responding to the catastrophic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and extremely challenging economic conditions,” Burgum said in a statement.
With the emergency declaration now in place, the state Department of Emergency Services will partner with local agencies to conduct damage assessments and then make a recommendation to Burgum on whether to seek a presidential disaster declaration.


washingtontimes--2020-04-24--Pitch and catch: Round 2 of NFL draft starts with receivers

That ’ s how the second round of the NFL draft began Friday night , and it hardly should be a stunner that receivers Tee Higgins of Clemson and Michael Pittman Jr. of Southern California were the first two picks .
For one , the NFL these days is built on passing offenses .
For another , this draft is loaded with outstanding wideouts .
Six went in the opening round , and many teams had both Higgins and Pittman rated as top-32 talent .
So the Cincinnati Bengals held firm atop the second round by grabbing Higgins to catch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pair worked out together heading toward the draft .
“ I actually model my game after him , ” Higgins said .
“ Man , it ’ s crazy .
I was just talking about this to my good friend - I could end up with the Bengals and be his teammate one day .
Now that this moment is here , it ’ s surreal.
” In addition to finding what they hope will be their franchise quarterback in LSU ’ s Burrow with the first overall pick , the Bengals ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who can make the spectacular reception .
Pittman takes his 6-foot-4 , 224-pound frame to Indianapolis .
The Colts had no first-rounder , and they quickly gave new quarterback Philip Rivers a target in Pittman , whose father also played in the NFL .
“ I think they brought me in to make an impact right now and they have Philip Rivers , who I think is a Hall of Famer , ” Pittman said .
“ I ’ m happy I get to start with like a Hall of Fame quarterback.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all in the first round got some attention directly after Higgins and Pittman were selected .
Georgia ’ s D ’ Andre Swift became the second running back chosen , by Detroit .
LSU ’ s Clyde Edwards-Helaire was the only RB who went in the opening round , last to Super Bowl champions Kansas City .
Swift is a dynamic playmaker unlike anyone the Lions have had in the backfield in years - maybe since Hall of Famer Barry Sanders , who retired in 1998 .
Safety was ignored on Thursday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Round 2 with Alabama ’ s Xavier McKinney .
New York ’ s secondary has been a sieve .
New England finally surfaced with the 37th overall spot after trading out of the first round .
Coach Bill Belichick was nowhere in sight - his dog appeared to be manning his laptop - as the Patriots chose Kyle Dugger , a safety from Division II Lenoir-Rhyne .
Dugger not only was the first player not in FBS to be selected , but only the second from a non-Power Five conference .
Utah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 26th overall to Green Bay , was the other .
Other teams making their initial selections Friday night saw : - Chicago adding a 10th tight end to its roster in Cole Kmet of Notre Dame ; - Florida State ’ s Cam Akers to the Rams , who had released their standout running back , Todd Gurley last month , with Gurley surfacing in Atlanta ; - Buffalo adding to an already solid defense with Iowa end A.J .
Epenesa , one of the Big Ten ’ s outstanding defenders .

Pitch and catch.
While only one quarterback, Oklahoma’s Jalen Hurts, was taken on the second day of the NFL draft Friday, the guys who haul in passes were everywhere.
Starting with the top two selections on Day 2 - Clemson’s Tee Higgins to Cincinnati and Southern California’s Michael Pittman to Indianapolis - seven wideouts were drafted in the second round. Add that to the six who went in the opening session, and it set an NFL record through two rounds.
Three more receivers were selected in the third round - were teams running out of prospects?
“It doesn’t matter who your quarterback is, you want him to have as many weapons as possible,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor said. “A lot of great offenses have those weapons at their disposal.”
Yep, the NFL these days is built on passing offenses. This draft is loaded with outstanding pass catchers. Many teams had both Higgins and Pittman rated as top-32 talent.
So Cincinnati held firm atop the second round by grabbing Higgins to catch Joe Burrow’s passes. The pair worked out together heading toward the draft.
And Higgins idolizes Bengals star receiver A.J. Green.
“I actually model my game after him,” Higgins said. “Man, it’s crazy. I was just talking about this to my good friend - I could end up with the Bengals and be his teammate one day. Now that this moment is here, it’s surreal.”
In addition to finding what they hope will be their franchise quarterback in LSU’s Burrow with the first overall pick, the Bengals (2-14 last season) added a threat who can make the spectacular reception.
Pittman takes his 6-foot-4, 224-pound frame to Indianapolis. The Colts had no first-rounder, and they quickly gave new quarterback Philip Rivers a target in Pittman, whose father also played in the NFL.
“I think they brought me in to make an impact right now and they have Philip Rivers, who I think is a Hall of Famer,” Pittman said. “I’m happy I get to start with like a Hall of Fame quarterback.”
Hurts wound up in Philadelphia, which has an established QB in Carson Wentz. But the Eagles envision using Hurts, who was at Alabama before being beaten out as starter by Tua Tagolvailoa.
“We’re always going to be about the QB position,” Eagles draft boss Howie Roseman said. “It’s the most important position in sports. … We think Jalen is an incredible teammate.
“We believe Carson will lead us to our next championship. … We are quarterback developers.”
So is the SEC, which, truthfully, develops every type of player. Through 106 selections, 40 came from that conference - far more than the previous high. Indeed, 40 for a conference through four rounds was the previous record.
National champion LSU had 10, tying the 2016 Ohio State record through three rounds, while perennial power Alabama added nine.
Two positions barely or not addressed at all in the first round got some attention directly after Higgins and Pittman were selected. Georgia’s D’Andre Swift became the second running back chosen, by Detroit. LSU’s Clyde Edwards-Helaire was the only RB who went in the opening round, last to Super Bowl champions Kansas City.
Swift is a dynamic playmaker unlike anyone the Lions have had in the backfield in years - maybe since Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, who retired in 1998.
Four more running backs went in the round.
Safety was ignored on Thursday, but immediately was addressed by the Giants in Round 2 with Alabama’s Xavier McKinney. New York’s secondary has been a sieve.
“He also has that ability to be a quarterback on the back end, a signal caller for the defense,” coach Joe Judge said. “He fits the mold of a smart, tough, fundamentally sound guy we are looking to build with.”
New England finally surfaced with the 37th overall spot after trading out of the first round. Coach Bill Belichick was nowhere in sight - his dog appeared to be manning his laptop - as the Patriots chose Kyle Dugger, a safety from Division II Lenoir-Rhyne. Dugger not only was the first player not in FBS to be selected, but only the second from a non-Power Five conference. Utah State quarterback Jordan Love, who went 26th overall to Green Bay, was the other.
After a record 15 of the 32 players in the first round came from the Southeastern Conference, another 10 SEC players came off the board in Round 2. And that’s not including Hurts, who transferred to the Big 12 for his final season.
Other teams making their initial selections Friday night saw:
- TCU defensive tackle Ross Blacklock going to Houston;
- Chicago adding a 10th tight end to its roster in Cole Kmet of Notre Dame;
- Another Irish player, wideout Chase Claypool, a Canadian, to Pittsburgh;
- Florida State’s Cam Akers to the Rams, who had released their standout running back, Todd Gurley last month, with Gurley surfacing in Atlanta;
- Buffalo adding to an already solid defense with Iowa end A.J. Epenesa, one of the Big Ten’s outstanding defenders.
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