washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Confusion in French soccer over whether league should resume

PARIS ( AP ) - Confusion reigns in French soccer as to whether the league should resume amid the coronavirus pandemic .
The co-president of the French professional soccer players ’ union called for the league to stop , while coaches in the top two divisions have expressed diverging opinions whether the 10 remaining games should be played .
“ It is legitimate to collectively ask ourselves the question of whether championships should continue , ” Sylvain Kastendeuch wrote in a column for Le Monde newspaper .
“ The economic emergency should not override the priority for public health .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ resumption of the championship.
” The president of the national union of coaches , former France coach Raymond Domenech , said “ all of the stances taken at this current time , from one side or another ” were not leading anywhere .
“ For the moment no one knows where we ’ re heading , taking a fixed stance makes no sense , ” he said in a video on Tuesday on sports daily L ’ Équipe ’ s website .
“ Resuming just like that is impossible , that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do everything to try to resume .
We can ask questions about how we can resume and under what conditions.
” But the players ’ union estimated that 75 % of its membership fear getting injured if the league resumes with a packed schedule , and are worried about the virus spreading .
However , the union also took a slightly more cautious view than Kastendeuch .
“ A return to competition seems difficult to envisage at this stage , ” the UNFP said in a statement following Kastendeuch ’ s column on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the days ahead all the doubts can be removed to allow a resumption in the best conditions , the UNFP obviously won ’ t oppose this.
” France ’ s top two divisions fall under the umbrella of the French league ’ s governing body .
The LFP ’ s administrative council unanimously voted on April 10 to consider resuming on June 17 and concluding the games - 11 for leader Paris Saint-Germain and mid-table Strasbourg - by July 25 .
In that hypothetical scenario , next season would start on August 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 , with the government set to announce at the end of April what measures will be put in place when the confinement ends .
The LFP has asked its doctors and the French Football Federation medical commission to devise a medical protocol which would allow training to resume “ in the manner of those announced last week by the major leagues ( of Germany , Italy , Spain ) .
” Pointing to protocols elsewhere , Domenech urged French soccer to be more flexible in its outlook .
“ ( So ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next : ‘ We ’ re stopping ?
’ … Let ’ s look at others , ” he said .
Lyon coach Rudi Garcia , whose side is involved in the Champions League round of 16 against Juventus , is among those who favor a resumption , while Brest and Dijon do not .
“ We want to resume in the right conditions .
Conditions which will allow us not to play every three days , or at least not systematically , ” Lyon coach Rudi Garcia told sports daily L @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will allow us to give the players two weeks of rest between the two seasons.
” The president of second-division Clermont also wants the leagues to finish .
“ It ’ s better to resume behind closed doors than not at all .
Bakers are obliged to resume work on May 11 and take the risk of being exposed to the virus .
Why should soccer not resume ?
” Ahmet Schaefer said .
“ On the contrary .
We should also return to work … I don ’ t understand France when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Germany , in Italy or in Austria .
”

PARIS (AP) - Confusion reigns in French soccer as to whether the league should resume amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The co-president of the French professional soccer players’ union called for the league to stop, while coaches in the top two divisions have expressed diverging opinions whether the 10 remaining games should be played.
“It is legitimate to collectively ask ourselves the question of whether championships should continue,” Sylvain Kastendeuch wrote in a column for Le Monde newspaper. “The economic emergency should not override the priority for public health. Let us renounce a rushed and dangerous resumption of the championship.”
The president of the national union of coaches, former France coach Raymond Domenech, said “all of the stances taken at this current time, from one side or another” were not leading anywhere.
“For the moment no one knows where we’re heading, taking a fixed stance makes no sense,” he said in a video on Tuesday on sports daily L’Équipe’s website. “Resuming just like that is impossible, that’s obvious to everybody. But we can do everything to try to resume. We can ask questions about how we can resume and under what conditions.”
But the players’ union estimated that 75% of its membership fear getting injured if the league resumes with a packed schedule, and are worried about the virus spreading.
However, the union also took a slightly more cautious view than Kastendeuch.
“A return to competition seems difficult to envisage at this stage,” the UNFP said in a statement following Kastendeuch’s column on Monday. “However, if in the days ahead all the doubts can be removed to allow a resumption in the best conditions, the UNFP obviously won’t oppose this.”
France’s top two divisions fall under the umbrella of the French league’s governing body.
The LFP’s administrative council unanimously voted on April 10 to consider resuming on June 17 and concluding the games - 11 for leader Paris Saint-Germain and mid-table Strasbourg - by July 25. In that hypothetical scenario, next season would start on August 22.
France is in lockdown until May 11, with the government set to announce at the end of April what measures will be put in place when the confinement ends.
The LFP has asked its doctors and the French Football Federation medical commission to devise a medical protocol which would allow training to resume “in the manner of those announced last week by the major leagues (of Germany, Italy, Spain).”
Pointing to protocols elsewhere, Domenech urged French soccer to be more flexible in its outlook.
“(So) we should say from one day to the next: ‘We’re stopping?’ … Let’s look at others,” he said.
Lyon coach Rudi Garcia, whose side is involved in the Champions League round of 16 against Juventus, is among those who favor a resumption, while Brest and Dijon do not.
“We want to resume in the right conditions. Conditions which will allow us not to play every three days, or at least not systematically,” Lyon coach Rudi Garcia told sports daily L’Equipe “(Conditions) which will allow us to give the players two weeks of rest between the two seasons.”
The president of second-division Clermont also wants the leagues to finish.
“It’s better to resume behind closed doors than not at all. Bakers are obliged to resume work on May 11 and take the risk of being exposed to the virus. Why should soccer not resume?” Ahmet Schaefer said. “On the contrary. We should also return to work … I don’t understand France when I see what’s happening in Germany, in Italy or in Austria.”
___
More AP soccer: https://apnews.com/Soccer and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Queen Elizabeth II  marks 94th birthday without fanfare

LONDON ( AP ) - Britain is marking Queen Elizabeth II ’ s 94th birthday with silence Tuesday , as @ @ @ @ @ the COVID-19 pandemic forgoes the usual gun salutes and ringing of bells .
With thousands @ @ @ @ @ the monarch decided that the celebratory display of military firepower would not be appropriate .
@ @ @ @ @ celebratory peal of bells at Westminster Abbey , as the church where the queen was @ @ @ @ @ closed .
The royal family took to social media to share images of Elizabeth as @ @ @ @ @ but in keeping with social distancing rules , there will be no visits .
The @ @ @ @ @ with her husband , the Duke of Edinburgh , 98 , at Windsor Castle in @ @

LONDON (AP) — Britain marked Queen Elizabeth II’s 94th birthday with silence Tuesday, as the nation in lockdown amid the COVID-19 pandemic forgoes the usual gun salutes and ringing of bells.
With thousands dead amid the outbreak, the monarch decided that the celebratory display of military firepower would not be appropriate. Nor will there be a celebratory peal of bells at Westminster Abbey, as the church where the queen was married and crowned is currently closed.
The royal family took to social media to share images of Elizabeth as she marked the occasion - but in keeping with social distancing rules, there were no visits.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, joined by their son Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, held a video call with to wish her a happy birthday. Other family members were also expected to telephone and video call the monarch privately to deliver their birthday messages.
The royal family also shared private family footage of the monarch as a young princess. The Royal Collection Trust archive film showed Elizabeth playing on a seesaw and in a garden with her sister, the late Princess Margaret.
The queen will mark the day with her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, 98, at Windsor Castle in Berkshire.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Ron DeSantis, Florida gov.: Southeastern states sharing ideas on reopening plans

Florida Gov .
Ron DeSantis on Tuesday said a handful of southeastern states including Mississippi , Alabama , Tennessee , Georgia and South Carolina have discussed response plans as some of them prepare to reopen parts of their economy amid the coronavirus pandemic .
“ We shared a lot of ideas — I think we ’ ll be on the same page [ with ] some stuff , ” Mr. DeSantis said on “ Fox & Friends.
” “ But as you guys know , Florida is about five states in and of itself.
” “ And so we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in southeast Florida that [ have ] over 60 % of our hospitalizations to date , ” he said .
“ Yes , we ’ re going to work regionally , but I also got to work regionally within my own state to make sure we thread the needle properly , ” Mr. DeSantis said .
A Florida task force on reopening the state ’ s economy is supposed to present Mr. DeSantis with recommendations by the end of the week .
Georgia Gov .
Brian Kemp on Monday announced plans to reopen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the end of this week , with restaurants and theaters to follow next week .
South Carolina Gov .
Henry McMaster on Monday said some retail businesses , like department stores and florists , can reopen if they maintain proper social distancing and limit capacity .
And Tennessee Gov .
Bill Lee on Monday said some businesses in the state will be able to open starting next week .
Other regional pacts of states that are coordinating on coronavirus response plans have formed in other areas across the country .
Those include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Midwest and three West Coast states .

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday said a handful of southeastern states including Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and South Carolina have discussed response plans as some of them prepare to reopen parts of their economy amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“We shared a lot of ideas — I think we’ll be on the same page [with] some stuff,” Mr. DeSantis said on “Fox & Friends.” “But as you guys know, Florida is about five states in and of itself.”
“And so we have a situation where we have three counties in southeast Florida that [have] over 60% of our hospitalizations to date,” he said.
“Yes, we’re going to work regionally, but I also got to work regionally within my own state to make sure we thread the needle properly,” Mr. DeSantis said.
A Florida task force on reopening the state’s economy is supposed to present Mr. DeSantis with recommendations by the end of the week.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Monday announced plans to reopen some businesses such as salons and gyms at the end of this week, with restaurants and theaters to follow next week.
SEE ALSO: Brian Kemp, Georgia governor, to lift coronavirus restrictions Friday
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on Monday said some retail businesses, like department stores and florists, can reopen if they maintain proper social distancing and limit capacity.
And Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee on Monday said some businesses in the state will be able to open starting next week.
Other regional pacts of states that are coordinating on coronavirus response plans have formed in other areas across the country. Those include seven northeastern states, seven in the Midwest and three West Coast states.
• David Sherfinski can be reached at dsherfinski@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--4-year-old girl dies after being shot in Philadelphia home

PHILADELPHIA ( AP ) - A 4-year-old girl who apparently was shot inside her family ’ s home in Philadelphia @ @ @ @ @ , authorities said .
It wasn ’ t clear who was holding the gun when @ @ @ @ @ least once in the stomach late Monday night .
She was driven to a hospital @ @ @ @ @ was pronounced dead there early Tuesday .
The girl ’ s name has not been @ @ @ @ @ were reported in the shooting .
It wasn ’ t clear how many people were @ @ @ @ @ time .

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - A 4-year-old girl who apparently was shot inside her family’s home in Philadelphia has died from her wounds, authorities said.
It wasn’t clear who was holding the gun when the girl was shot at least once in the stomach late Monday night. She was driven to a hospital in a private vehicle and was pronounced dead there early Tuesday.
The girl’s name has not been released.
No other injuries were reported in the shooting. It wasn’t clear how many people were in the home at the time.
The shooting remains under investigation.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Authorities: Massive fire burning at large egg farm in Ohio

CROTON , Ohio ( AP ) - A fast-moving , massive fire erupted early Tuesday at a large egg farm @ @ @ @ @ wasn ’ t clear if any chickens at the site had been harmed .
The @ @ @ @ @ 3:30 a.m. at the Trillium Farms facility in Croton , authorities said , and sent @ @ @ @ @ sky .
It apparently was burning in a front building at the site , officials @ @ @ @ @ the chicken coop buildings .
No human injuries were reported in the blaze , which @ @ @ @ @ several hours while dozens of firefighters work to contain it .
The cause of the @ @ @ @ @ .

CROTON, Ohio (AP) - Authorities say a fast-moving fire at a large egg farm in Ohio destroyed one large building and also killed hens in other buildings.
The blaze reported shortly before 3:30 a.m. at the Trillium Farms facility in Croton sent flames shooting high into the sky.
Chief Mike Richardson of the Hartford Volunteer Fire Department told the Newark Advocate that the flames destroyed one building that was about 300 feet long and damaged another. He said all chickens were lost in one building and some chickens were lost in two other buildings due to exposure.
No injuries were reported to employees or firefighters.
Company spokeswoman Hinda Mitchell said the full scale of the loss at the Licking County location wasn’t clear Tuesday morning but called it “a terrible situation” and said the company was “devastated by the loss of our hens.”
Richardson said the cause remains undetermined but is believed to have been electrical.
WBNS reported 30 fire department responding, and 47 fire trucks were at the scene at one point.
In 2018, a fire less than two miles (three kilometers) away destroyed a pullet barn at the facility. Pullets are young hens not yet producing eggs.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Pandemic is dealing European tourism 'staggering' blow

HALLE , Belgium ( AP ) - The European Union says its vaunted tourist industry is facing “ staggering ” figures of decline because of the coronavirus crisis and the bloc ’ s internal market commissioner wants the sector to be first in line when it comes to recovery funds .
Thierry Breton mentioned figures that the tourism economy could slump up to 70 % and will be among the last to recover as the 27-nation bloc is facing perhaps the toughest challenge since its inception .
Across Europe , desolation illustrates the tourism crisis , from empty squares like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like Rome ’ s Colosseum while idle gondolas await non-existent tourists in Venice .
Arrival areas in airports stand empty and beaches , basking in the sunshine , are deserted .
Europe is hardly alone in facing hardship - what with the deserted waterfront under Cape Town ’ s Table Mountain and the closed-off pyramids outside Cairo .
But Breton said the European market accounts for half of world tourism .
The unprecedented scenes since World War II are hitting anything from multinational airlines to family-owned hotels .
“ Tourism was the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I am sure that it will be the slowest to recover and come out of this phase , ” Breton told a European Parliament committee via videolink on Tuesday .
Based on information from international institutions and trade groups , Breton said that “ we are looking at quite staggering figures , ” adding that between 275 and 400 billion euros ( $ 300 to $ 435 billion ) would be lost for the tourism and travel industry because of the pandemic .
He said the estimate for international travel was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year while tourism could be hit with a slump between 45 % and 70 % in its economy .
“ The loss of earnings at European level we are looking at for hotels and restaurants is a magnitude of at least 50 % in terms of annual income , ” Breton said , saying it could rise to 70 % for tour operations and travel agencies and even more for some cruise and airline companies .
Making things worse is that some countries that are specifically hard-hit by the coronavirus are also heavily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spain .
The pandemic has been felt across the economic spectrum and the EU is gearing up for a massive aid operation , often compared to the U.S. Marshall Plan which sought to lift up a destitute Europe in the wake of World War II .
EU leaders will be meeting in a special video summit on Thursday to get a better grip on the aid effort , which some nations say needs a fund with up to 1.5 trillion euros ( 1.63 trillion dollars ) to help the bloc ’ s worst-hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hard to make sure that tourism would stand first in line .
“ I consider that tourism should benefit the most , more than 20 % without a doubt , ” he told the parliamentarians .
Tourism is specifically reliant on any developments in the pandemic since countries close off not only borders but often popular places like museums and beaches to contain the virus .
Still , Breton said things could change before the summer .
“ I certainly hope that we can start traveling again , despite the restrictions , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
Whatever happens , Breton also insisted that the industry should also use the crisis as a turning point .
Every year , complaints keep increasing about over-tourism which suffocates cities like Amsterdam , Barcelona and Florence , while all the pollution from flying and cruise ship movements soil tourism ’ s reputation .
He is working to have a special tourism summit in September where the most important item on the agenda will be to “ reinvent the tourism sector of tomorrow.
” Follow AP coverage of the pandemic at @ @ @ @ @ @ @

HALLE, Belgium (AP) - The European Union says its vaunted tourist industry is facing “staggering” figures of decline because of the coronavirus crisis and the bloc’s internal market commissioner wants the sector to be first in line when it comes to recovery funds.
Thierry Breton mentioned figures that the tourism economy could slump up to 70% and will be among the last to recover as the 27-nation bloc is facing perhaps the toughest challenge since its inception.
Across Europe, desolation illustrates the tourism crisis, from empty squares like the Brussels Grand Place to deserted monuments like Rome’s Colosseum while idle gondolas await non-existent tourists in Venice. Arrival areas in airports stand empty and beaches, basking in the sunshine, are deserted.
″Venice is on its knees,″ Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said Tuesday.
Europe is hardly alone in facing hardship - what with the deserted waterfront under Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the closed-off pyramids outside Cairo. But Breton said the European market accounts for half of world tourism.
The unprecedented scenes since World War II are hitting anything from multinational airlines to family-owned hotels.
“Tourism was the first sector to be hit by the coronavirus and I am sure that it will be the slowest to recover and come out of this phase,” Breton told a European Parliament committee via videolink on Tuesday.
Based on information from international institutions and trade groups, Breton said that “we are looking at quite staggering figures,” adding that between 275 and 400 billion euros ($300 to $435 billion) would be lost for the tourism and travel industry because of the pandemic.
He said the estimate for international travel was a decline of up to 30% this year while tourism could be hit with a slump between 45% and 70% in its economy.
“The loss of earnings at European level we are looking at for hotels and restaurants is a magnitude of at least 50% in terms of annual income,” Breton said, saying it could rise to 70% for tour operations and travel agencies and even more for some cruise and airline companies.
Making things worse is that some countries that are specifically hard-hit by the coronavirus are also heavily dependent on tourism, like Italy and Spain.
The pandemic has been felt across the economic spectrum and the EU is gearing up for a massive aid operation, often compared to the U.S. Marshall Plan which sought to lift up a destitute Europe in the wake of World War II. EU leaders will be meeting in a special video summit on Thursday to get a better grip on the aid effort, which some nations say needs a fund with up to 1.5 trillion euros (1.63 trillion dollars) to help the bloc’s worst-hit countries.
Breton said he would work hard to make sure that tourism would stand first in line.
“I consider that tourism should benefit the most, more than 20% without a doubt,” he told the parliamentarians.
Tourism is specifically reliant on any developments in the pandemic since countries close off not only borders but often popular places like museums and beaches to contain the virus. Still, Breton said things could change before the summer.
“I certainly hope that we can start traveling again, despite the restrictions, and as soon as this summer,” he said.
In Germany, voices were pessimistic. Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said that “no one needs to be under any illusions,” because efforts to curb the coronavirus pandemic will continue to limit freedom of movement. “It won’t be possible to have a normal vacation season with full beach bars and full mountain huts this summer.”
Whatever happens, Breton also insisted that the industry should also use the crisis as a turning point. Every year, complaints keep increasing about over-tourism which suffocates cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona and Florence, while all the pollution from flying and cruise ship movements soil tourism’s reputation.
He is working to have a special tourism summit in September where the most important item on the agenda will be to “reinvent the tourism sector of tomorrow.”
___
Colleen Barry in Soave, Italy, and Geir Moulson in Berlin, contributed to this report.
Follow AP coverage of the pandemic at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Crews searching Texas bayou for boaters after distress call

BAYTOWN , Texas ( AP ) - The U.S. Coast Guard searched a Texas bayou Tuesday after receiving a call @ @ @ @ @ people aboard was taking on water .
On Monday night , a boater made a @ @ @ @ @ his 27-foot ( 8-meter ) recreational boat was taking on water in Cedar Bayou near @ @ @ @ @ ( 40 kilometers ) east of Houston , the Coast Guard said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ were four adults and three children aboard the vessel , and all radio communications were @ @ @ @ @ , the Coast Guard said .
Crews were searching early Tuesday by helicopter and boat @ @ @ @ @ or those aboard , the Coast Guard said .

BAYTOWN, Texas (AP) - The U.S. Coast Guard on Tuesday suspended a search of a Texas bayou, a day after receiving a distress call that a boat with seven people had taken on water.
The Coast Guard said Tuesday that a search of the water found no sign of a boat or any people in Cedar Bayou near Baytown, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Houston. On Monday night, a boater had made a mayday radio transmission and said his 27-foot (8-meter) recreational boat was taking on water, and radio contact was lost after that point, the agency said.
“Our crews were able to extensively search the waterway concentrating their efforts on the location reported by the mariner,” said Chellsey Phillips, the Coast Guard’s Sector Houston-Galveston command duty officer. “However, with no further signs of distress and no reports of missing persons, we are suspending our search efforts pending additional information.”
Crews had searched by helicopter and boat for any sign of vessel or those aboard but found nothing, the agency said.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--3 policemen die in attacks on Afghan police chief, governor

KABUL , Afghanistan ( AP ) - Two separate bombings in Afghanistan targeted a senior police chief and a provincial governor on Tuesday , killing three policemen and wounding several people , including the police chief , local officials said .
In the first attack , police chief Ghulam Sakhi Ghafoori was on his way to inspect the security situation in the volatile district of Paato in the central Day Kundi province when his car struck a roadside bomb .
Three policemen in his convoy were killed and the police chief was wounded , along with two others , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the second attack , a suicide car bombing struck by Gov .
Mohammad Halim Fidai ’ s car in eastern Khost province , wounding two of his bodyguards and 12 civilians , said the governor ’ s spokesman , Talib Mangal .
Shortly after the attack , Fidai , who was unharmed in the explosion , appealed on the Taliban in a Facebook live video asking them to stop such attacks and join the peace process .
There was no claim of responsibility for either of the attacks and the Taliban did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s appeal .
Since the signing of a peace agreement between the U.S. and the Taliban in February , the insurgents have stopped attacking U.S. and NATO troops but have struck Afghan forces in outlying areas .
The violence has continued even as the country faces the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic that threatens to overwhelm Afghanistan ’ s war-ravaged health system .

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - Two separate bombings in Afghanistan targeted a senior police chief and a provincial governor on Tuesday, killing three policemen and wounding several people, including the police chief, local officials said.
In the first attack, police chief Ghulam Sakhi Ghafoori was on his way to inspect the security situation in the volatile district of Paato in the central Day Kundi province when his car struck a roadside bomb. Three policemen in his convoy were killed and the police chief was wounded, along with two others, according to police spokesman Gul Aqa Sujadi.
In the second attack, a suicide car bombing struck by Gov. Mohammad Halim Fidai’s car in eastern Khost province, wounding two of his bodyguards and 12 civilians, said the governor’s spokesman, Talib Mangal.
Shortly after the attack, Fidai, who was unharmed in the explosion, appealed on the Taliban in a Facebook live video asking them to stop such attacks and join the peace process.
There was no claim of responsibility for either of the attacks and the Taliban did not immediately respond to the governor’s appeal.
Since the signing of a peace agreement between the U.S. and the Taliban in February, the insurgents have stopped attacking U.S. and NATO troops but have struck Afghan forces in outlying areas.
The violence has continued even as the country faces the unprecedented coronavirus pandemic that threatens to overwhelm Afghanistan’s war-ravaged health system.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--1 dead, 2 hurt in early morning house fire in Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE , Fla. ( AP ) - One person died and two others were taken to hospitals following a fire @ @ @ @ @ and Rescue officials said .
The fire broke out at 2:30 a.m. and quickly grew @ @ @ @ @ house next door on fire at well , the agency said on Twitter .
At @ @ @ @ @ the two homes .
Most of the people inside the homes were able to get @ @ @ @ @ two before they were prevented by flames from entering the homes again .
The two @ @ @ @ @ hospitals for treatment .
Their names or conditions were not available .
Once the fire @ @ @ @ @ a body inside one home .
The identity of the person has not been released @

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) - Two people were dead and another was critically injured following a fire early Tuesday, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue officials said.
The fire broke out at 2:30 a.m. and quickly grew in size, catching the house next door on fire at well, the agency said on Twitter. At least 16 people were inside the two homes.
Most of the people inside the homes were able to get out, but firefighters rescued two before they were prevented by flames from entering the homes again.
The two injured people were take to hospitals for treatment, and one later passed away.
Once the fire was out, firefighters found a body inside one home. The identity of the person has not been released.
The State Fire Marshal will investigate.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Millennial Money: Put whatever you want on a baby registry

My husband and I want love and opportunity for our first baby , due this summer .
We also want a $ 95 digital thermometer .
And a $ 160 video monitor .
I initially felt uneasy putting these indulgent requests on our registry .
But my husband pointed out that we wanted those things , so who cares if we ask ?
I cared .
Would my frugal , Midwestern family think we ’ re yuppies for wanting high-end products ?
Was it inconsiderate to ask for this stuff while many people face financial insecurity ?
I was also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our baby registry would reveal : what we want for our family and the monetary value we placed on those things .
Of course , I was overthinking it .
Yes , baby registries are personal , and sharing ours made me feel a bit vulnerable .
But I suspect getting personal and feeling vulnerable will be a theme as we hurl ourselves into parenting .
So we ’ d better get used to it .
If you ’ re feeling weird about asking people to buy stuff for your family , here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ( with help from experts ) .
DON ’ T WORRY ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE THINK A major “ duh ” moment for me : My loved ones aren ’ t monsters .
In the worst-case scenario , they roll their eyes at the overpriced thermometer , choose to buy the $ 10 onesie instead and probably never think about the registry again .
No one is trying to find fault in our requests .
The best ( and more likely ) scenario is that my friends and family are simply happy to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a part of this life moment , ” says Lauren Kay , executive editor of The Bump parenting website .
“ Your aunt or your best friend purchasing something you ’ ll love and use for your baby is a way for them to be a part of this journey you ’ re on.
” And your loved ones probably understand that this journey is expensive .
So cut your loved ones - and yourself - some slack .
After all , Kay points out , many of the items you need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a crib , are important and , yes , pricey .
Let folks help .
Reframing the registry may also help you feel better .
Think of it as a reference point for later , says Samantha Angoletta , managing editor of the Scary Mommy parenting website .
You likely poured time and research into choosing the items you want .
A registry helps you log and track those items , whether people buy them for you or not .
So if no one gets us that fancy thermometer , for example , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it for ourselves .
And Angoletta points out that , toward the end of the pregnancy , many registries offer a coupon or discount for items that weren ’ t purchased .
MAKE A REGISTRY THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE There ’ s no shame in registering for the items you want .
There ’ s also no harm in setting up the registry so that everyone who wants to give you something can afford to do so .
Here ’ s what Kay and Angoletta recommend doing : - CHOOSE ITEMS IN A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to spend $ 10 on your family ’ s gift , others will want to spend $ 50 , and maybe a few will want to break out the triple digits .
So register for items that reflect various price points , from pacifiers to a stroller .
- REGISTER FOR GIFT CARDS .
This way , friends and family members can spend exactly how much they want .
For example , on our registry , I added Target gift cards and left the amount blank .
You can also register for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
- ALLOW GROUP GIFTS OR CASH FUNDS .
Amazon , Target and other registries allow for group gifting , so several people can contribute whatever they want toward one big-ticket item .
Similarly , sites such as Babylist and MyRegistry offer cash funds , which allow friends and family to choose the amount they want to give toward , say , a college fund or pricey item .
In both cases , you get what you want and loved ones get to contribute without overspending .
- ASK FOR FAVORS .
Babylist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favors .
These are printable coupons for housecleaning , babysitting , dog-walking , providing home-cooked meals and other services that will be free or cheap for the giver and useful to you .
If your registry doesn ’ t have this feature , put the call out for favors when the registry link or shower invites are sent .
Whether someone buys us that fancy thermometer or drops off a lasagna , I know how to ensure everyone feels good : I ’ ll write a thank-you note .
This column was provided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finance website NerdWallet .
Laura McMullen is a writer at NerdWallet .
Email : [ email protected ] Twitter : @ lauraemcmullen .
NerdWallet : Preparing for a baby ?
Tackle these 15 financial tasks https : //bit.ly/new-baby-financial-checklist

My husband and I want love and opportunity for our first baby, due this summer. We also want a $95 digital thermometer. And a $160 video monitor.
I initially felt uneasy putting these indulgent requests on our registry. But my husband pointed out that we wanted those things, so who cares if we ask?
I cared. Would my frugal, Midwestern family think we’re yuppies for wanting high-end products? Was it inconsiderate to ask for this stuff while many people face financial insecurity? I was also struck by the two very personal things our baby registry would reveal: what we want for our family and the monetary value we placed on those things.
Of course, I was overthinking it. Yes, baby registries are personal, and sharing ours made me feel a bit vulnerable. But I suspect getting personal and feeling vulnerable will be a theme as we hurl ourselves into parenting. So we’d better get used to it.
If you’re feeling weird about asking people to buy stuff for your family, here’s how I talked myself through it (with help from experts).
DON’T WORRY ABOUT WHAT PEOPLE THINK
A major “duh” moment for me: My loved ones aren’t monsters. In the worst-case scenario, they roll their eyes at the overpriced thermometer, choose to buy the $10 onesie instead and probably never think about the registry again. No one is trying to find fault in our requests.
The best (and more likely) scenario is that my friends and family are simply happy to be involved. “They want to be a part of this life moment,” says Lauren Kay, executive editor of The Bump parenting website. “Your aunt or your best friend purchasing something you’ll love and use for your baby is a way for them to be a part of this journey you’re on.” And your loved ones probably understand that this journey is expensive.
So cut your loved ones - and yourself - some slack. After all, Kay points out, many of the items you need when the baby is born, like a crib, are important and, yes, pricey. Let folks help.
Reframing the registry may also help you feel better. Think of it as a reference point for later, says Samantha Angoletta, managing editor of the Scary Mommy parenting website. You likely poured time and research into choosing the items you want. A registry helps you log and track those items, whether people buy them for you or not.
So if no one gets us that fancy thermometer, for example, my husband and I know to buy it for ourselves. And Angoletta points out that, toward the end of the pregnancy, many registries offer a coupon or discount for items that weren’t purchased.
MAKE A REGISTRY THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE
There’s no shame in registering for the items you want. There’s also no harm in setting up the registry so that everyone who wants to give you something can afford to do so. Here’s what Kay and Angoletta recommend doing:
- CHOOSE ITEMS IN A RANGE OF PRICES. Some people will want to spend $10 on your family’s gift, others will want to spend $50, and maybe a few will want to break out the triple digits. So register for items that reflect various price points, from pacifiers to a stroller.
- REGISTER FOR GIFT CARDS. This way, friends and family members can spend exactly how much they want. For example, on our registry, I added Target gift cards and left the amount blank. You can also register for a few gift cards with various amounts.
- ALLOW GROUP GIFTS OR CASH FUNDS. Amazon, Target and other registries allow for group gifting, so several people can contribute whatever they want toward one big-ticket item. Similarly, sites such as Babylist and MyRegistry offer cash funds, which allow friends and family to choose the amount they want to give toward, say, a college fund or pricey item. In both cases, you get what you want and loved ones get to contribute without overspending.
- ASK FOR FAVORS. Babylist allows you to register for help and favors. These are printable coupons for housecleaning, babysitting, dog-walking, providing home-cooked meals and other services that will be free or cheap for the giver and useful to you. If your registry doesn’t have this feature, put the call out for favors when the registry link or shower invites are sent.
Whether someone buys us that fancy thermometer or drops off a lasagna, I know how to ensure everyone feels good: I’ll write a thank-you note.
___________________________
This column was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet. Laura McMullen is a writer at NerdWallet. Email: lmcmullen@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @lauraemcmullen.
RELATED LINK:
NerdWallet: Preparing for a baby? Tackle these 15 financial tasks https://bit.ly/new-baby-financial-checklist


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Coke volume plunges 25% in April; hopes for 2nd half rebound

Coca-Cola ’ s global volume has tumbled 25 % in April as the coronavirus pandemic gripped large swaths of the world population .
The year began strongly at Coke , with volumes up 3 % through February excluding China , where the outbreak had locked down major cities , and the company was on track to reach its financial targets .
The deterioration , however , was rapid .
Within a month the Tokyo Olympics , of which Coke is a major sponsor , were off .
Theaters and restaurants closed from Europe to America and people sheltered in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sales come from theaters , vending machines , shows , musical and other events .
Almost all of the volume decline to-date in April came from sales at such events .
As the virus spread , the behavior of consumers shifted radically .
The Atlanta company saw sales spike as people loaded up pantries , though those sales have since leveled off .
Global unit case volumes rose 7 % in China in January , then it began to slide .
The same pattern was repeated first in Europe , then in North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ juice , dairy , coffee and tea fell during the quarter , though water and sport drinks rose 2 % in the Americas .
“ The ultimate impact on the second quarter and full year 2020 is unknown at this time , as it will depend heavily on the duration of social distancing and shelter-in-place mandates , as well as the substance and pace of macroeconomic recovery , ” the company said in a prepared statement .
“ However , the impact to the second quarter will be material.
” Coke remains optimistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this year , however .
First-quarter net income jumped 65 % to $ 2.8 billion , or 64 cents per share .
Adjusted for one-time items , the company earned 51 cents per share , easily beating Wall Street projections of 44 cents per share , according to FactSet .
Coke ’ s adjusted revenue of $ 8.6 billion also edged out analyst projections .
Coke has already disregarded earlier projections for the year , but said it ’ s financial standing is strong Tuesday .
Coke ended 2019 with $ 8 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demand for a $ 5 billion debt offering last month .
The company is also tightening standards at facilities , checking the temperatures of workers in China , where plants have reoponed .
Plants have reopened in China , where the company checks the temperatures of workers .
It ’ s ramped up sanitation measures at all facilities , though most office employees continue to work remotely .
Coke ’ s shares are flat before the opening bell Tuesday .

Coca-Cola’s global volume tumbled 25% in April as the coronavirus pandemic gripped large swaths of the world population.
Those volumes made up of bottled drinks and the syrups Coke sells to theaters, restaurants, stadiums and music venues were humming early in the year, revealing how fast the virus hobbled human activity and commerce, from mom-and-pop shops to global operators like Coca-Cola Co.
“There has been temporary but profound pressure on our customers and our business,” Chairman and CEO James Quincey said Tuesday.
Volume was up 3% through February excluding China, and Coke was on track to reach and possibly exceed its financial targets.
But within a month the Tokyo Olympics, of which Coke is a major sponsor, were off. Theaters and restaurants closed in Europe, the Americas and Africa, and billions took shelter in their homes.
Global unit case volumes rose 7% in China in January, then it began to slide. The same pattern was repeated first in Europe, and then in North America.
While sales to homes spiked briefly, almost half of Coke’s sales come from movie chains, vending machines, concerts and other events. Almost all of the volume decline to-date in April came from those places.
And sales of drinks that go in people’s pantries or refrigerators have leveled off. In some places, like India, social distancing measures are so strict that home sales have suffered as well, Quincey said.
“The ultimate impact on the second quarter and full year 2020 is unknown at this time, as it will depend heavily on the duration of social distancing and shelter-in-place mandates, as well as the substance and pace of macroeconomic recovery,” the company said in a prepared statement. “However, the impact to the second quarter will be material.”
Coke remains optimistic about a rebound in the second half of this year, but Quincey stressed that the company is navigating uncharted territory.
“We are still some way from the new normal,” he said.
Coke’s headquarters are in Georgia, where the state governor has announced aggressive plans to reopen some businesses starting Friday. Those roll-outs would extend to restaurants and other places next week.
Quincey did not directly address those plans, which are being questioned by health experts. But he does not believe the company’s Atlanta headquarters will open that soon.
Some Coca-Cola labs or technical facilities might open sooner than headquarters and when they do, the company will likely implement strategies like employee temperature monitoring or staggered shifts, like those being used in Shanghai, the only company office that is currently open.
Offices in Shanghai are disinfected at the end of each day.
“We’ll have to see how the health situation performs,” Quincey said Tuesday.
Most Coke employees are still on the job in some way. Production is focused on the company’s most popular drinks to keep store shelves stocked.
Coke has furloughed 14,000 baristas at its Costa coffee chain in China and the United Kingdom, but those workers are being paid, Quincey said.
The company reported Tuesday that first-quarter net income jumped 65% to $2.8 billion, or 64 cents per share.
Adjusted for one-time items, the company earned 51 cents per share, easily beating Wall Street projections of 44 cents per share, according to FactSet.
Coke’s adjusted revenue of $8.6 billion also edged out analyst projections.
Coke has already disregarded earlier projections for the year, but said its financial standing is strong Tuesday. Coke ended 2019 with $8 billion in cash and there was strong demand for a $5 billion debt offering last month.
Plants have reopened in China, where the company checks the temperatures of workers daily. It’s ramped up sanitation measures at all facilities.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--First woman CEO of a German bluechip firm out after 6 months

BERLIN ( AP ) - SAP co-chief executive Jennifer Morgan is leaving her job only six months after becoming the @ @ @ @ @ company on Germany ’ s DAX index of blue-chip stocks , the business software maker @ @ @ @ @ , the other half of the leadership tandem that was appointed in October , will @ @ @ @ @ the company said .
A statement added that Morgan “ mutually agreed with the supervisory @ @ @ @ @ leave SAP effective April 30 .
It pointed to the fallout from the coronavirus crisis @ @ @ @ @ decision .
“ More than ever , the current environment requires companies to take swift @ @ @ @ @ best supported by a very clear leadership structure , ” SAP said .
“ Therefore @ @ @ @ @ from Co-CEO to sole CEO model was taken earlier than planned to ensure strong , @ @ @ @ @ an unprecedented crisis.
” Morgan joined SAP in 2004 and had been on the company @ @ @ @ @ 2017 .

BERLIN (AP) - SAP co-chief executive Jennifer Morgan is leaving her job only six months after becoming the first female CEO of a company on Germany’s DAX index of blue-chip stocks, the business software maker said Tuesday.
Christian Klein, the other half of the leadership tandem that was appointed in October, will continue as sole CEO, the company said. A statement added that Morgan “mutually agreed with the supervisory board” that she will leave SAP effective April 30.
It pointed to the fallout from the coronavirus crisis as the reason for the decision.
“More than ever, the current environment requires companies to take swift, determined action which is best supported by a very clear leadership structure,” SAP said. “Therefore, the decision to transfer from Co-CEO to sole CEO model was taken earlier than planned to ensure strong, unambiguous steering in times of an unprecedented crisis.”
Morgan joined SAP in 2004 and had been on the company’s executive board since 2017.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--University of Illinois creates fund to offset tuition hike

CHAMPAIGN , Ill. ( AP ) - The University of Illinois System has created a fund to provide financial aid to students who are facing increased economic distress due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The fund , which will have at least $ 36 million available to students , is being supported by the federal COVID-19 relief package , money from all three universities in Illinois ’ system and private fundraising .
The recently approved federal economic assistance bill set aside $ 14 billion for higher education .
University President Tim Killeen says students from Illinois will have priority in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fund , which will be used to cover the 1 % tuition increase at the Springfield campus and the 1.8 % increase at the Chicago and Urbana/Champaign campuses .
The tuition hike , the first for the university system in six years , is to fund faculty additions needed because of seven straight years of increased enrollment .
University officials haven ’ t said if the campuses will fully reopen in the fall .
Barbara Wilson , Illinois ’ vice president for academic affairs , says in addition to paying for tuition increases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those currently enrolled with such things as housing costs and technology needs .
“ The pandemic has disrupted college savings plans that were years in the making and created financial hardships no one could have foreseen , ” Killeen said .
“ We want to make sure it doesn ’ t deny students access to the education that will transform their lives and supply the next-generation workforce that is so critical to the future of our state and nation.
” Students that want help from the university can apply for grants up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office .

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) - The University of Illinois System has created a fund to provide financial aid to students who are facing increased economic distress due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The fund, which will have at least $36 million available to students, is being supported by the federal COVID-19 relief package, money from all three universities in Illinois’ system and private fundraising. The recently approved federal economic assistance bill set aside $14 billion for higher education.
University President Tim Killeen says students from Illinois will have priority in accessing the Students FIRST: COVID-19 Emergency Fund, which will be used to cover the 1% tuition increase at the Springfield campus and the 1.8% increase at the Chicago and Urbana/Champaign campuses.
The tuition hike, the first for the university system in six years, is to fund faculty additions needed because of seven straight years of increased enrollment. University officials haven’t said if the campuses will fully reopen in the fall.
Barbara Wilson, Illinois’ vice president for academic affairs, says in addition to paying for tuition increases, the emergency fund will also assist those currently enrolled with such things as housing costs and technology needs.
“The pandemic has disrupted college savings plans that were years in the making and created financial hardships no one could have foreseen,” Killeen said. “We want to make sure it doesn’t deny students access to the education that will transform their lives and supply the next-generation workforce that is so critical to the future of our state and nation.”
Students that want help from the university can apply for grants up to $1,000 through the campus financial aid office.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Trump tells Chevron to "wind down" oil fields in Venezuela

CARACAS , Venezuela ( AP ) - The Trump administration on Tuesday ordered Chevron Corp. to “ wind down ” operations in Venezuela by Dec. 1 , barring the California-based oil giant in the meantime from drilling or exporting , as the U.S. increases pressure on President Nicolás Maduro to give up power .
Chevron is the last major U.S. oil company to do business in crisis-wracked Venezuela , investing in the South American nation ’ s oil fields and machinery over the last century with an estimated value of $ 2.6 billion , which analysts say Maduro ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the latest in a series of steps the White House has taken against Maduro , quickening the pace of its push to end his presidency and more than 20 years of socialist rule that critics blame for leading the once rich oil-producing nation to economic and political ruin .
Venezuela sits atop the world ’ s largest oil reserves , yet its political upheaval and economic crunch have led 4.5 million people in recent years to flee their native country , where many lack basic services like running water , electricity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levying a series of financial and economic sanctions on Maduro and his allies , the Trump administration has waged a campaign of maximum pressure in recent weeks .
U.S. federal prosecutors have indicted Maduro as a narcotrafficker , putting a $ 15 million bounty on his head , while sending warships and planes to intercept illegal drug shipments crossing the Caribbean bound for the United States .
U.S. officials also unveiled plans for a transitional government to hold a presidential election years before Maduro ’ s current term ends .
Maduro has rejected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of other nations that he resign , saying Washington is conspiring against Venezuela ’ s socialist revolution so it can steal its oil .
This comes at a tumultuous time for oil producing nations with global energy prices driven down in part due to a glut of oil in storage worldwide as drivers stay home under coronavirus quarantines rather than gas up their cars or board planes .
Chevron had been arguing that any void in Venezuela created by its departure would likely be filled by companies from Russia and China , harming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is an OPEC member .
Chevron ’ s net daily production in 2019 averaged 35,300 barrels of crude oil , equal to roughly 6 % of Venezuela ’ s total production .
Recently , Venezuela had been scaling down more amid the tumult in the global oil market .
The United States and nearly 60 nations support Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó ’ s claim to be the country ’ s legitimate president , calling Maduro ’ s 2018 election a sham because leading opposition candidates were banned .
Shortly after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in early January 2019 , the White House hit Venezuela ’ s state-run oil company PDVSA with sanctions , aimed at cutting the socialist government off from hard cash it earned from oil production .
However , the U.S. allowed Chevron , which operates joint ventures with PDVSA , to continue working in Venezuela .
U.S. Treasury Department officials had to renew Chevron ’ s license to operate in Venezuela every few months .
Now , Chevron is allowed to maintain its presence at their facilities until Dec. 1 and perform essential maintenance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Baker Hughes and Weatherford International also have to cease their work in Venezuela under the action affecting Chevron , Treasury officials said .
Chevron ’ s legacy in Venezuela dates back to the oilfield discoveries in the 1920s .
Among holdings today , Chevron runs two major investments .
It ’ s the last U.S. oil company standing in Venezuela after ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips left years ago rather than accept the terms set by Venezuela ’ s socialist government to operate as minority partners in joint ventures with PDVSA .
Russ Dallen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caracas Capital Markets , expects the Venezuelan government to take over Chevron ’ s operations itself and predicts Maduro ’ s administration will eventually run them into the ground .
That is what happened to a long list of U.S.-built factories that fell into the socialist government ’ s hands when they decided to leave or were expropriated , he said .
“ It may take years of decay for the government to destroy the Tiffany diamond that Chevron has built there , ” Dallen said .
“ I have no doubt they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
”

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) - The Trump administration on Tuesday ordered Chevron Corp. to “wind down” operations in Venezuela by Dec. 1, barring the California-based oil giant in the meantime from drilling or exporting, as the U.S. increases pressure on President Nicolás Maduro to give up power.
Chevron is the last major U.S. oil company to do business in crisis-wracked Venezuela, investing in the South American nation’s oil fields and machinery over the last century with an estimated value of $2.6 billion, which analysts say Maduro’s government will likely take over.
It’s the latest in a series of steps the White House has taken against Maduro, quickening the pace of its push to end his presidency and more than 20 years of socialist rule that critics blame for leading the once rich oil-producing nation to economic and political ruin.
Venezuela sits atop the world’s largest oil reserves, yet its political upheaval and economic crunch have led 4.5 million people in recent years to flee their native country, where many lack basic services like running water, electricity, gasoline and functioning hospitals.
After levying a series of financial and economic sanctions on Maduro and his allies, the Trump administration has waged a campaign of maximum pressure in recent weeks. U.S. federal prosecutors have indicted Maduro as a narcotrafficker, putting a $15 million bounty on his head, while sending warships and planes to intercept illegal drug shipments crossing the Caribbean bound for the United States.
U.S. officials also unveiled plans for a transitional government to hold a presidential election years before Maduro’s current term ends. Maduro has rejected the demands of the U.S. and dozens of other nations that he resign, saying Washington is conspiring against Venezuela’s socialist revolution so it can steal its oil.
This comes at a tumultuous time for oil producing nations with global energy prices driven down in part due to a glut of oil in storage worldwide as drivers stay home under coronavirus quarantines rather than gas up their cars or board planes.
Chevron had been arguing that any void in Venezuela created by its departure would likely be filled by companies from Russia and China, harming long-term strategic U.S. interests in the country, which is an OPEC member.
Chevron spokesperson Ray Fohr said the company will follow the laws and regulations, while remaining committed to the “integrity of our joint venture assets, the safety and wellbeing of our employees and their families.”
Chevron’s net daily production in 2019 averaged 35,300 barrels of crude oil, equal to roughly 6% of Venezuela’s total production. Recently, Venezuela had been scaling down more amid the tumult in the global oil market.
The United States and nearly 60 nations support Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó’s claim to be the country’s legitimate president, calling Maduro’s 2018 election a sham because leading opposition candidates were banned.
Shortly after Guaido declared his plans to oust Maduro in early January 2019, the White House hit Venezuela’s state-run oil company PDVSA with sanctions, aimed at cutting the socialist government off from hard cash it earned from oil production.
However, the U.S. allowed Chevron, which operates joint ventures with PDVSA, to continue working in Venezuela. U.S. Treasury Department officials had to renew Chevron’s license to operate in Venezuela every few months. Now, Chevron is allowed to maintain its presence at their facilities until Dec. 1 and perform essential maintenance.
Oilfield service providers Halliburton, Schlumberger, Baker Hughes and Weatherford International also have to cease their work in Venezuela under the action affecting Chevron, Treasury officials said.
Chevron’s legacy in Venezuela dates back to the oilfield discoveries in the 1920s. Among holdings today, Chevron runs two major investments.
It’s the last U.S. oil company standing in Venezuela after ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips left years ago rather than accept the terms set by Venezuela’s socialist government to operate as minority partners in joint ventures with PDVSA.
Russ Dallen, head of the Miami-based investment firm Caracas Capital Markets, expects the Venezuelan government to take over Chevron’s operations itself and predicts Maduro’s administration will eventually run them into the ground. That is what happened to a long list of U.S.-built factories that fell into the socialist government’s hands when they decided to leave or were expropriated, he said.
“It may take years of decay for the government to destroy the Tiffany diamond that Chevron has built there,” Dallen said. “I have no doubt they’ll be able to destroy it.”
___
Scott Smith on Twitter: @ScottSmithAP


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Churches creatively maintain unity of congregation with online services

The upside of the coronavirus , says Jami Wermers , is that she ’ s attending so many daily Masses ( at least , digitally ) .
“ The church ’ s grace has really sustained us , ” said Mrs. Wermers , who attends Saint Teresa of Calcutta parish in Dakota Dunes , just outside Sioux City , Iowa .
While sheltering at home , she ’ s found time to pray more frequently and recite the rosary , she says .
Christian denominations across the country have derived meaning and solace amid the coronavirus pandemic while creatively maintaining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a handful of churches have drawn attention for suing governors for exemptions to stay-at-home orders , most congregants are at home and attending services online , participating in mobile Bible studies , and reciting prayers , anticipating the day normalcy returns .
“ There ’ s something in our DNA as Methodists that is oriented around health care and direct contact with people , ” said Ted A. Campbell , professor of church history at Southern Methodist University ’ s Perkins School of Theology .
The spirit of Methodism founder John Wesley , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1747 , today prompts church staff opening the phone book and calling up members weekly , he said .
“ Some little churches are saying , ‘ Go through the whole list .
Call every person .
Ask them how they ’ re doing , ’ ” Mr. Campbell said .
Meanwhile , a discussion about plagues has evoked a sense that the troubles of biblical times can be present today .
“ No doubt we believe that God has made promises to his people to see us through , ” said Keith @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest , North Carolina .
Last month , the Southern Baptist Convention canceled its annual meeting for the first time in 75 years .
But it ’ s the absence of the “ normal rhythms ” of sharing faith stories in restaurants , on the street or with coworkers that has been felt most bitterly for Baptists , Mr. Whitfield said .
“ We ’ re an active people , ” he said .
“ We ’ re active in our faith .
We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Corporate worship ” is missing , too , for Myke Crowder , senior pastor at the Christian Life Center , an Assembly of God church in Layton , Utah .
The church has a menu of Zoom meetings , including an online youth service , a men ’ s Bible Study and weekly Sunday services .
But he doesn ’ t see the digital domain ruling past June 1 .
“ There are things that can be done without coming together for sure , ” Mr. Crowder said , “ but there ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ churches have taken legal action to stay open .
Last Friday , Maryville Baptist Church in Louisville and its pastor , Jack Roberts , filed a lawsuit against Kentucky Gov .
Andy Beshear , a Democrat , accusing him of singling out churchgoers with enforcement of a stay-at-home order on Easter Sunday .
On Monday , the Christian nonprofit law firm Liberty Counsel representing Maryville announced a plan called “ ReOpen Church Sunday , ” set for May 3 , calling on churches and believers to start meeting again .
But the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation ’ s largest black Pentecostal denomination , the Church of God in Christ , reportedly has seen at least a dozen of its bishops and prominent clergy die of COVID-19 .
Two people died and nearly a dozen became ill at a Church of the Nazarene congregation in Oregon .
A church choir rehearsal in Washington State left nearly 50 people sick and two dead .
Most mainline Protestant churches are waiting to reintegrate slowly into regular church attendance .
A historical society of the Presbyterian Church ( U.S.A. ) is gathering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sermons during the pandemic to fill archives showing how churches were “ beacons of hope ” in this time .
“ Just as people today can read our Civil War Thanksgiving sermons to learn what preachers were saying and congregants hearing about that war , we want to make sure people in the future can access the 2020 Easter services as one window into the proofed impact the epidemic is having on our own time , ” said Nancy Taylor , executive director of the Presbyterian Historical Society .
Michael Chan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luther Seminary in St. Paul , Minnesota , notes that while Lutherans are reaching forward in innovative ways , they ’ re also “ reaching back ” to texts and Lutheran values rooted in their faith .
One document , Mr. Chan said , is bluntly titled “ Whether One May Flee from a Deadly Plague.
” “ It asks questions like , does Christian faith allow me to save myself and run ?
” Mr. Chan said .
“ It ’ s a good thing to survive , this is a God-given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factors ?
Are their needs of the neighbor [ or ] vocational responsibilities that would constrain my flight ?
” Ultimately , the urge to fill gaps — whether through increased gifting or even a simple phone call to fellow parishioners — has kept the walls of the church together , even when parishioners are apart , he said .

The upside of the coronavirus, says Jami Wermers, is that she’s attending so many daily Masses (at least, digitally).
“The church’s grace has really sustained us,” said Mrs. Wermers, who attends Saint Teresa of Calcutta parish in Dakota Dunes, just outside Sioux City, Iowa.
While sheltering at home, she’s found time to pray more frequently and recite the rosary, she says.
Christian denominations across the country have derived meaning and solace amid the coronavirus pandemic while creatively maintaining the unity of their congregations.
While a handful of churches have drawn attention for suing governors for exemptions to stay-at-home orders, most congregants are at home and attending services online, participating in mobile Bible studies, and reciting prayers, anticipating the day normalcy returns.
“There’s something in our DNA as Methodists that is oriented around health care and direct contact with people,” said Ted A. Campbell, professor of church history at Southern Methodist University’s Perkins School of Theology.
The spirit of Methodism founder John Wesley, who wrote a public health document in 1747, today prompts church staff opening the phone book and calling up members weekly, he said.
“Some little churches are saying, ‘Go through the whole list. Call every person. Ask them how they’re doing,’” Mr. Campbell said.
Meanwhile, a discussion about plagues has evoked a sense that the troubles of biblical times can be present today.
“No doubt we believe that God has made promises to his people to see us through,” said Keith Whitfield, a theology professor and dean at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina.
Last month, the Southern Baptist Convention canceled its annual meeting for the first time in 75 years. But it’s the absence of the “normal rhythms” of sharing faith stories in restaurants, on the street or with coworkers that has been felt most bitterly for Baptists, Mr. Whitfield said.
“We’re an active people,” he said. “We’re active in our faith. We’re engaged in mission and evangelism.”
“Corporate worship” is missing, too, for Myke Crowder, senior pastor at the Christian Life Center, an Assembly of God church in Layton, Utah.
The church has a menu of Zoom meetings, including an online youth service, a men’s Bible Study and weekly Sunday services. But he doesn’t see the digital domain ruling past June 1.
“There are things that can be done without coming together for sure,” Mr. Crowder said, “but there’s nothing like personal contact.”
Some churches have taken legal action to stay open. Last Friday, Maryville Baptist Church in Louisville and its pastor, Jack Roberts, filed a lawsuit against Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat, accusing him of singling out churchgoers with enforcement of a stay-at-home order on Easter Sunday.
On Monday, the Christian nonprofit law firm Liberty Counsel representing Maryville announced a plan called “ReOpen Church Sunday,” set for May 3, calling on churches and believers to start meeting again.
But the virus has not spared the faithful. The nation’s largest black Pentecostal denomination, the Church of God in Christ, reportedly has seen at least a dozen of its bishops and prominent clergy die of COVID-19.
Two people died and nearly a dozen became ill at a Church of the Nazarene congregation in Oregon. A church choir rehearsal in Washington State left nearly 50 people sick and two dead.
Most mainline Protestant churches are waiting to reintegrate slowly into regular church attendance. A historical society of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is gathering audio and video recordings of worship services and sermons during the pandemic to fill archives showing how churches were “beacons of hope” in this time.
“Just as people today can read our Civil War Thanksgiving sermons to learn what preachers were saying and congregants hearing about that war, we want to make sure people in the future can access the 2020 Easter services as one window into the proofed impact the epidemic is having on our own time,” said Nancy Taylor, executive director of the Presbyterian Historical Society.
Michael Chan, assistant professor of the Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, notes that while Lutherans are reaching forward in innovative ways, they’re also “reaching back” to texts and Lutheran values rooted in their faith. One document, Mr. Chan said, is bluntly titled “Whether One May Flee from a Deadly Plague.”
“It asks questions like, does Christian faith allow me to save myself and run?” Mr. Chan said. “It’s a good thing to survive, this is a God-given impulse. But what are the limiting factors? Are their needs of the neighbor [or] vocational responsibilities that would constrain my flight?”
Ultimately, the urge to fill gaps — whether through increased gifting or even a simple phone call to fellow parishioners — has kept the walls of the church together, even when parishioners are apart, he said.
• Christopher Vondracek can be reached at cvondracek@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Pandemic could leave $210M to $300M hole in Seattle budget

SEATTLE ( AP ) - New projections show the coronavirus pandemic may cause Seattle to collect $ 210 million to $ 300 million less than expected in tax revenue this year , Mayor Jenny Durkan announced Tuesday .
The city ’ s general fund , which pays for basic services such as parks and police , could be down by as much as $ 186 million , while other revenue sources that pay for other services could fall by as much as $ 114 million , The Seattle Times reported .
The resulting $ 300 million shortfall would mean a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The projections are based on ” rapid recovery ” and “ slow recovery ” economic forecasts that indicate the Seattle area could shed 65,000 to 170,000 jobs this year , according to a presentation by the city ’ s budget office .
The city ’ s budget relies greatly on property taxes , sales taxes and business taxes .
Sales and businesses taxes are expected to plunge this year , as are real estate taxes .
The new projections are worse than a month ago , when the budget office predicted a $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 pandemic has become one of the most consequential and transformative events of our lifetime , ” Durkan said in a statement .
“ We are rethinking how city government can respond to the urgent needs of our community and create a foundation for recovery.
” Seattle has about $ 67 million in an emergency fund designated for surprise expenses and about $ 61 million in a revenue stabilization account sometimes referred to as the “ rainy day fund ” that is held for shortfalls , according to the budget-office .
The city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ additional state and federal assistance .
Seattle ’ s departments have stopped hiring as well as stopped spending on travel and are curbing spending not related to the coronavirus crisis , Durkan said .
City councilwomen Kshama Sawant and Tammy Morales have proposed a new payroll tax on large businesses , saying the measure could raise as much as $ 500 million a year .
The council ’ s budget committee is scheduled to discuss it Wednesday .

SEATTLE (AP) - New projections show the coronavirus pandemic may cause Seattle to collect $210 million to $300 million less than expected in tax revenue this year, Mayor Jenny Durkan announced Tuesday.
The city’s general fund, which pays for basic services such as parks and police, could be down by as much as $186 million, while other revenue sources that pay for other services could fall by as much as $114 million, The Seattle Times reported. The resulting $300 million shortfall would mean a 18% reduction in expected revenue.
The projections are based on”rapid recovery” and “slow recovery” economic forecasts that indicate the Seattle area could shed 65,000 to 170,000 jobs this year, according to a presentation by the city’s budget office.
The city’s budget relies greatly on property taxes, sales taxes and business taxes. Sales and businesses taxes are expected to plunge this year, as are real estate taxes.
The new projections are worse than a month ago, when the budget office predicted a $110 million general-fund shortfall.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has become one of the most consequential and transformative events of our lifetime,” Durkan said in a statement. “We are rethinking how city government can respond to the urgent needs of our community and create a foundation for recovery.”
Seattle has about $67 million in an emergency fund designated for surprise expenses and about $61 million in a revenue stabilization account sometimes referred to as the “rainy day fund” that is held for shortfalls, according to the budget-office.
The city also could reallocate levy dollars and seek additional state and federal assistance.
Seattle’s departments have stopped hiring as well as stopped spending on travel and are curbing spending not related to the coronavirus crisis, Durkan said.
City councilwomen Kshama Sawant and Tammy Morales have proposed a new payroll tax on large businesses, saying the measure could raise as much as $500 million a year. The council’s budget committee is scheduled to discuss it Wednesday.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Teen in recovery after fall near Maine's tallest waterfall

WEST FORKS , Maine ( AP ) - A Maine teenager rescued after slipping and falling 30 feet down an @ @ @ @ @ s tallest waterfall is recovering .
Maine officials and volunteers were able to place Antonio @ @ @ @ @ China , into a rescue jacket after he slipped and fell into a gorge Monday @ @ @ @ @ Falls .
Maine Game Wardens said Jacobs was immobile when they found him .
The @ @ @ @ @ friends when he fell down the embankment , according to a news release from the @ @ @ @ @ & Wildlife .
Jacobs was then flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center where he was @ @ @ @ @ to his ankle , knee and ribs .
Moxie Falls , the highest waterfall in @ @ @ @ @ Somerset County to the west of Moosehead Lake .

WEST FORKS, Maine (AP) - A Maine teenager rescued after slipping and falling 30 feet down an embankment near the state’s tallest waterfall is recovering.
Maine officials and volunteers were able to place Antonio Jacobs, 18, of China, into a rescue jacket after he slipped and fell into a gorge Monday at the base of Moxie Falls.
Maine Game Wardens said Jacobs was immobile when they found him.
The teen was hiking with three friends when he fell down the embankment, according to a news release from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.
Jacobs was then flown to Eastern Maine Medical Center where he was treated for abrasions and injuries to his ankle, knee and ribs.
Moxie Falls, the highest waterfall in Maine, is located in Somerset County to the west of Moosehead Lake.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Humpback whale washes up on San Francisco beach

SAN FRANCISCO ( AP ) - A severely decomposed young humpback whale washed ashore on a San Francisco beach and experts said Tuesday they were trying to determine how it died .
Dr. Pádraig Duignan , Chief Pathologist at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito , said the center was alerted early Tuesday to a dead whale on San Francisco ’ s Baker Beach .
A small team of scientists from the center and California Academy of Sciences performed a partial necropsy on the 37-foot-long ( 11-meter ) whale .
Details on what killed the whale won ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completed , he said .
Officials asked people to stay away from the whale ’ s carcass not only because of shelter-in-place orders due to the coronavirus “ but also due to any potential diseases the animal might have that could transmit to people , ” Duignan said .
Baker Beach is in the Golden Gate National Recreation Center and after the group of scientists is done with their work , the whale will be buried on site “ to reduce its public safety hazard , ” National Park Service spokesman Julian Espinoza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , at least a dozen dead whales washed ashore in the San Francisco Bay Area and scientists said they feared it was because the animals were starving and couldn ’ t complete their annual migration from Mexico to Alaska .

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - A severely decomposed young humpback whale washed ashore on a San Francisco beach and experts said Tuesday they were trying to determine how it died.
Dr. Pádraig Duignan, Chief Pathologist at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, said the center was alerted early Tuesday to a dead whale on San Francisco’s Baker Beach.
A small team of scientists from the center and California Academy of Sciences performed a partial necropsy on the 37-foot-long (11-meter) whale. Details on what killed the whale won’t be available until a final necropsy report is completed, he said.
Officials asked people to stay away from the whale’s carcass not only because of shelter-in-place orders due to the coronavirus “but also due to any potential diseases the animal might have that could transmit to people,” Duignan said.
Baker Beach is in the Golden Gate National Recreation Center and after the group of scientists is done with their work, the whale will be buried on site “to reduce its public safety hazard,” National Park Service spokesman Julian Espinoza said in a statement.
Last year, at least a dozen dead whales washed ashore in the San Francisco Bay Area and scientists said they feared it was because the animals were starving and couldn’t complete their annual migration from Mexico to Alaska.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--People makes history with Hawn, Hudson on anniversary cover

LOS ANGELES ( AP ) - Three generations will grace the cover of People magazine ’ s 30th anniversary “ @ @ @ @ @ , her daughter Kate Hudson and granddaughter Rani Rose Fujikawa will appear on the cover @ @ @ @ @ will be released Friday .
It ’ s the first time three generations will be @ @ @ @ @ 30-year history of the “ Beauty Issue.
” The cover story touches on several topics @ @ @ @ @ ’ s style choices to parenting .
Hawn and Hudson talked about their family ’ @ @ @ @ @ during the lock down prompted by the coronavirus pandemic .
Hawn , 74 , said @ @ @ @ @ the crisis with her partner of 37 years , Kurt Russell with “ meditation , @ @ @ @ @ all in my heart and staying safe inside.
” Hudson , 41 , has been @ @ @ @ @ , Rani Rose and her sons Ryder and Bing , who are from previous relationships @ @ @ @ @ mother ’ s relationship with Russell , 69 , inspires her .

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Three generations will grace the cover of People magazine’s 30th anniversary “Beauty Issue.”
Goldie Hawn, her daughter Kate Hudson and granddaughter Rani Rose Fujikawa will appear on the cover of the issue, which will be released Friday. It’s the first time three generations will be the cover feature in the 30-year history of the “Beauty Issue.”
The cover story touches on several topics, including Hawn and Hudson’s style choices to parenting.
Hawn and Hudson talked about their family’s unbreakable bond, even during the lock down prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Hawn, 74, said she has been getting through the crisis with her partner of 37 years, Kurt Russell with “meditation, nurturing, loving kindness for all in my heart and staying safe inside.”
Hudson, 41, has been home with musician Danny Fujikawa, Rani Rose and her sons Ryder and Bing, who are from previous relationships. She said watching her mother’s relationship with Russell, 69, inspires her.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--GBI: 911 supervisor accessed crime files for personal use

CARTERSVILLE , Ga. ( AP ) - A supervisor at a North Georgia 911 center was arrested and accused of @ @ @ @ @ use , authorities said .
Stormie Watkins , 52 , of Cartersville , was arrested @ @ @ @ @ of Investigation and charged with three counts of computer invasion of privacy , news outlets @ @ @ @ @ Watkins was a supervisor at a 911 call center in Bartow County .
Her position @ @ @ @ @ Crime Information Center files only for legitimate purposes , GBI spokesman Brian Johnston said .
@ @ @ @ @ a statewide database of crime files .
Bartow County Sheriff ’ s Office investigators discovered @ @ @ @ @ without authorization , Johnston said .
The department contacted the GBI , who later performed @ @ @ @ @ GBI said Watkins abused her authority by accessing the files for personal reasons , which @ @ @ @ @ ’ s unclear whether Watkins had an attorney who could comment on her behalf .

CARTERSVILLE, Ga. (AP) - A supervisor at a North Georgia 911 center was arrested and accused of accessing criminal files for personal use, authorities said.
Stormie Watkins, 52, of Cartersville, was arrested Monday by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and charged with three counts of computer invasion of privacy, news outlets reported.
The GBI said Watkins was a supervisor at a 911 call center in Bartow County.
Her position allowed her to access Georgia Crime Information Center files only for legitimate purposes, GBI spokesman Brian Johnston said. The Crime Information Center manages a statewide database of crime files.
Bartow County Sheriff’s Office investigators discovered Watkins was accessing the files without authorization, Johnston said. The department contacted the GBI, who later performed their own investigation.
The GBI said Watkins abused her authority by accessing the files for personal reasons, which violates Georgia law.
It’s unclear whether Watkins had an attorney who could comment on her behalf.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--7-year-old finds gun and kills little sister; mom arrested

WESTMINSTER , Colo. ( AP ) - A 7-year-old boy accidentally shot his younger sister to death on Tuesday after @ @ @ @ @ their home in suburban Denver .
Their mother has been arrested .
Police in the @ @ @ @ @ boy was playing with his 3-year-old sister when he found the loaded gun .
Their @ @ @ @ @ Harman , was home and was arrested on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death @ @ @ @ @ was taken to jail .
It ’ s not yet clear if she has an @ @ @ @ @ her behalf .
The boy and another of his younger siblings are in the temporary @ @ @ @ @ .
No other information was released .

WESTMINSTER, Colo. (AP) - A 7-year-old boy accidentally shot his younger sister to death on Tuesday after finding an unsecured shotgun at their home in suburban Denver. Their mother has been arrested.
Police in the city of Westminster say the boy was playing with his 3-year-old sister when he found the loaded gun. Their 24-year-old mother, Michaela Dawn Harman, was home and was arrested on suspicion of child abuse resulting in death - criminal negligence. She was taken to jail.
It’s not yet clear if she has an attorney who can speak on her behalf.
The boy and another of his younger siblings are in the temporary care of child welfare officials.
No other information was released.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Pandemic ignites dozens of legal battles across nation

Dozens of lawsuits stemming from the COVID-19 crisis that deal with immigration , personal injury and religious liberty are winding through the courts , with two having made their way to the Supreme Court .
Abortion rights advocates recently withdrew a petition before the justices that had asked the high court to block a Texas order banning abortions — deeming them nonessential procedures — following a lower court ruling allowing medical abortions to continue in the state .
The petition withdrawal meant the justices avoided deciding whether to permit the ban while the litigation continues in the lower court , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The justices this month had to weigh in on an emergency order regarding Wisconsin ’ s primary election after a district court allowed voters to mail-in ballots postmarked after the election date .
The high court curtailed that ruling , saying it ran against precedent .
“ With states likely adjusting their voting procedures for November in response to COVID-19 , I expect the Wisconsin election dispute will not be the only one to make it to the Supreme Court , ” said Curt Levey , president of the Committee for Justice , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial nominees to the federal courts .
Aside from the rushed , time-sensitive petitions over abortion bans and election issues , other lawsuits playing out in lower courts are expected to drag on for months , if not years .
The cases include passengers and employees suing cruise ship lines for setting sail and putting them at risk during the pandemic .
Legal battles also have been sparked by stay-at-home orders in various states , causing business owners to challenge the power of government officials to close their doors .
Business owners also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeking economic damages from China , where the virus originated .
Missouri also sued the Chinese Communist Party on Tuesday , demanding China repay the state “ billions of dollars ” lost because of the coronavirus , saying the communist government was reckless in its handling of the disease .
Religious liberty issues also arose when some governors deemed churches nonessential services and subject to shutdown orders .
Kansas , Kentucky and Mississippi faced court challenges after banning drive-in church services where parishioners remain in their vehicles to hear sermons , thereby abiding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been siding with the church members , saying the governmental orders went too far , intruding on First Amendment rights to freely assemble and practice one ’ s faith .
Judges also have been forced to weigh in on whether prisoners should be released from prison because of the pandemic and whether the Trump administration ’ s immigration policies put undocumented immigrants at risk of contracting the virus .
Stubhub is facing a multimillion dollar class-action suit for refusing to refund tickets for canceled events after concerts were halted with stay-at-home orders in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawsuits by business owners who challenge the determinations they were not covered for pandemics .
Those types of lawsuits involve state contract law and likely won ’ t get Supreme Court review , noted Brian Fitzpatrick , a law professor at Vanderbilt University .
“ I think this is going to be the biggest category of litigation , ” he said .
Aside from the few possible emergency orders before the Supreme Court , legal scholars say the justices will try to sidestep major legal rulings based on a fast-changing public health crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as hard as possible , to stay away from the coronavirus cases , ” said Josh Blackman , a professor at South Texas College of Law .
“ All of these cases involve emergency appeals with no factual records .
The Supreme Court generally prefers cases that have developed records and where there is a circuit split .
”

Dozens of lawsuits stemming from the COVID-19 crisis that deal with immigration, personal injury and religious liberty are winding through the courts, with two having made their way to the Supreme Court.
Abortion rights advocates recently withdrew a petition before the justices that had asked the high court to block a Texas order banning abortions — deeming them nonessential procedures — following a lower court ruling allowing medical abortions to continue in the state.
The petition withdrawal meant the justices avoided deciding whether to permit the ban while the litigation continues in the lower court, pitting constitutional rights against state powers.
The justices this month had to weigh in on an emergency order regarding Wisconsin’s primary election after a district court allowed voters to mail-in ballots postmarked after the election date. The high court curtailed that ruling, saying it ran against precedent.
“With states likely adjusting their voting procedures for November in response to COVID-19, I expect the Wisconsin election dispute will not be the only one to make it to the Supreme Court,” said Curt Levey, president of the Committee for Justice, a conservative group that advocates for constitutionalist judicial nominees to the federal courts.
Aside from the rushed, time-sensitive petitions over abortion bans and election issues, other lawsuits playing out in lower courts are expected to drag on for months, if not years. The cases include passengers and employees suing cruise ship lines for setting sail and putting them at risk during the pandemic.
Legal battles also have been sparked by stay-at-home orders in various states, causing business owners to challenge the power of government officials to close their doors.
Business owners also brought class-action lawsuits in Florida and California seeking economic damages from China, where the virus originated.
Missouri also sued the Chinese Communist Party on Tuesday, demanding China repay the state “billions of dollars” lost because of the coronavirus, saying the communist government was reckless in its handling of the disease.
Religious liberty issues also arose when some governors deemed churches nonessential services and subject to shutdown orders.
Kansas, Kentucky and Mississippi faced court challenges after banning drive-in church services where parishioners remain in their vehicles to hear sermons, thereby abiding by social distancing orders.
Courts have been siding with the church members, saying the governmental orders went too far, intruding on First Amendment rights to freely assemble and practice one’s faith.
Judges also have been forced to weigh in on whether prisoners should be released from prison because of the pandemic and whether the Trump administration’s immigration policies put undocumented immigrants at risk of contracting the virus.
Stubhub is facing a multimillion dollar class-action suit for refusing to refund tickets for canceled events after concerts were halted with stay-at-home orders in effect.
Insurance companies were hit with lawsuits by business owners who challenge the determinations they were not covered for pandemics. Those types of lawsuits involve state contract law and likely won’t get Supreme Court review, noted Brian Fitzpatrick, a law professor at Vanderbilt University.
“I think this is going to be the biggest category of litigation,” he said.
Aside from the few possible emergency orders before the Supreme Court, legal scholars say the justices will try to sidestep major legal rulings based on a fast-changing public health crisis.
“The Supreme Court will try, as hard as possible, to stay away from the coronavirus cases,” said Josh Blackman, a professor at South Texas College of Law. “All of these cases involve emergency appeals with no factual records. The Supreme Court generally prefers cases that have developed records and where there is a circuit split.”
• Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-21--Hospital reinstates suspended nurses who demanded masks

At least 10 nurses are heading back to the COVID-19 ward this week after being suspended for demanding protective respirator @ @ @ @ @ United union said Tuesday .
Their Southern California hospital has reinstated them and is now @ @ @ @ @ nurses working with infected patients .
Last week , the Associated Press reported that nurses @ @ @ @ @ s Health Center in Santa Monica were on administrative leave after telling their managers they @ @ @ @ @ patient rooms without the masks .
The N95 mask filters out 95 % of all @ @ @ @ @ too tiny to be blocked by regular masks .
But hospital administrators said they weren @ @ @ @ @ ’ t provide them , the nurses said .
Last week , Providence said in @ @ @ @ @ set up a system to disinfect and reprocess the masks , which are in huge @ @ @ @ @ The hospital was not immediately available for comment Tuesday .

At least 10 nurses are heading back to the COVID-19 ward this week after being suspended for demanding protective respirator masks, the National Nurses United union said Tuesday.
Their Southern California hospital has reinstated them and is now supplying the N95 masks to nurses working with infected patients.
Last week, the Associated Press reported that nurses at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica were on administrative leave after telling their managers they wouldn’t enter COVID-19 patient rooms without the masks.
The N95 mask filters out 95% of all airborne particles, including ones too tiny to be blocked by regular masks. But hospital administrators said they weren’t necessary and didn’t provide them, the nurses said.
Last week, Providence said in a statement that it had set up a system to disinfect and reprocess the masks, which are in huge demand amid global shortages.
The hospital was not immediately available for comment Tuesday.