washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Northam seeks $25M for 'historic justice' initiatives

RICHMOND , Va. ( AP ) - Democratic Gov .
Ralph Northam on Friday announced a proposal to spend $ 25 million to transform historical sites in Virginia , including the Richmond spot where a soaring statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee became a recent focal point of protests against racism .
Nearly $ 11 million of the money would be used to reconstruct Richmond ’ s Monument Avenue , a historical boulevard that was lined with the Lee statue and other Confederate monuments for more than a century .
Most of the statues were taken down in July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid weeks of protests following the killing of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis .
At 21 feet ( 6 meters ) tall , the bronze statue of Lee astride a horse towers over the avenue on a pedestal nearly twice as tall as the piece itself .
Northam announced plans to remove the Lee statue in June .
But its removal was blocked by a lawsuit filed by a group of residents who live near the statue , which is located on state-owned land .
A judge sided with Northam in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while the residents appeal to the state Supreme Court .
Northam said the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts would use the funding to hire staff and lead an initiative to redesign Monument Avenue .
“ At a time when this Commonwealth and country are grappling with how to present a more complete and honest picture of our complex history , we must work to enhance public spaces that have long been neglected and shine light on previously untold stories , ” Northam said in a news release .
The spending proposal is contingent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Assembly .
Northam plans to address his proposed “ historic justice ” initiatives and other components of his budget plan with the money committees of the legislature on Wednesday .
Patrick McSweeney , an attorney for the residents who sued to try to block the removal of the Lee statue , said the public is “ deeply split ” over the removal of Confederate monuments .
“ Instead of a gracious attempt to acknowledge that most opponents of removal of statues are not hateful and racist , the Governor has inflicted an emotional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A deepened divide between the races will be his legacy , ” said McSweeney , a former chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia .
Alex Nyerges , director and chief executive officer of the museum , said he hopes to bring together artists , art historians , urban planners and residents of the community to contribute to a plan to reinvent Monument Avenue .
“ It is about looking to the future , looking to a future that ’ s inclusive , that ’ s forward-thinking , and there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nyerges said .
“ These monuments have been on Monument Avenue for 130 years .
They were objects of oppression , they were objects of racism , and that has scarred this community , it ’ s scarred generations of Richmonders.
” Stoney tweeted that the governor ’ s plan was an “ investment in the voices of Black , brown and Indigenous Richmonders too often silenced in our official historical and cultural narratives.
” “ It ’ s time to center those stories , ” he said .
Stoney announced in July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the development of an ambitious and long-envisioned memorial campus in Richmond ’ s former slave-trading district , Shockoe Bottom .
Historians and community activists have long called for a greater acknowledgement of the neighborhood ’ s history , most of which has been bulldozed , buried or destroyed over the years .
But commemoration efforts had moved at a glacial pace .
The $ 25 million investment proposed by Northam includes $ 9 million for the development of a Slavery Heritage Site and improvements to the existing Slave Trail in Shockoe Bottom .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area known as the Devil ’ s Half-Acre , or Lumpkin ’ s Jail , where many slaves were held .
Another $ 5 million would be used to repatriate tombstones from the former Columbian Harmony Cemetery in Washington , D.C. , and create the Harmony Living Shoreline memorial .
Headstones were removed from the historic African American cemetery and relocated in 1960 to make way for commercial development .
Some headstones were moved to a new cemetery in Landover , Maryland , while others were sold off by the developer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ erosion control along the banks of the Potomac River .
The funding also includes $ 100,000 to support the Virginia Emancipation and Freedom Monument project on Brown ’ s Island .

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam on Friday announced a proposal to spend $25 million to transform historical sites in Virginia, including the Richmond spot where a soaring statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee became a recent focal point of protests against racism.
Nearly $11 million of the money would be used to reconstruct Richmond’s Monument Avenue, a historical boulevard that was lined with the Lee statue and other Confederate monuments for more than a century.
Most of the statues were taken down in July after Mayor Levar Stoney ordered their removal amid weeks of protests following the killing of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis. At 21 feet (6 meters) tall, the bronze statue of Lee astride a horse towers over the avenue on a pedestal nearly twice as tall as the piece itself.
Northam announced plans to remove the Lee statue in June. But its removal was blocked by a lawsuit filed by a group of residents who live near the statue, which is located on state-owned land. A judge sided with Northam in October, but the statue remains standing while the residents appeal to the state Supreme Court.
Northam said the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts would use the funding to hire staff and lead an initiative to redesign Monument Avenue.
“At a time when this Commonwealth and country are grappling with how to present a more complete and honest picture of our complex history, we must work to enhance public spaces that have long been neglected and shine light on previously untold stories,” Northam said in a news release.
The spending proposal is contingent on winning approval from the Democratic-controlled General Assembly. Northam plans to address his proposed “historic justice” initiatives and other components of his budget plan with the money committees of the legislature on Wednesday.
Patrick McSweeney, an attorney for the residents who sued to try to block the removal of the Lee statue, said the public is “deeply split” over the removal of Confederate monuments.
“Instead of a gracious attempt to acknowledge that most opponents of removal of statues are not hateful and racist, the Governor has inflicted an emotional insult that will not soon be forgotten. A deepened divide between the races will be his legacy,” said McSweeney, a former chairman of the Republican Party of Virginia.
Alex Nyerges, director and chief executive officer of the museum, said he hopes to bring together artists, art historians, urban planners and residents of the community to contribute to a plan to reinvent Monument Avenue.
“It is about looking to the future, looking to a future that’s inclusive, that’s forward-thinking, and there’s also an element of healing,” Nyerges said.
“These monuments have been on Monument Avenue for 130 years. They were objects of oppression, they were objects of racism, and that has scarred this community, it’s scarred generations of Richmonders.”
Stoney tweeted that the governor’s plan was an “investment in the voices of Black, brown and Indigenous Richmonders too often silenced in our official historical and cultural narratives.”
“It’s time to center those stories,” he said.
Stoney announced in July that the city was committing funding for the development of an ambitious and long-envisioned memorial campus in Richmond’s former slave-trading district, Shockoe Bottom.
Historians and community activists have long called for a greater acknowledgement of the neighborhood’s history, most of which has been bulldozed, buried or destroyed over the years. But commemoration efforts had moved at a glacial pace.
The $25 million investment proposed by Northam includes $9 million for the development of a Slavery Heritage Site and improvements to the existing Slave Trail in Shockoe Bottom. The funding will support efforts to preserve the area known as the Devil’s Half-Acre, or Lumpkin’s Jail, where many slaves were held.
Another $5 million would be used to repatriate tombstones from the former Columbian Harmony Cemetery in Washington, D.C., and create the Harmony Living Shoreline memorial. Headstones were removed from the historic African American cemetery and relocated in 1960 to make way for commercial development. Some headstones were moved to a new cemetery in Landover, Maryland, while others were sold off by the developer and used to create a riprap shoreline for erosion control along the banks of the Potomac River.
The funding also includes $100,000 to support the Virginia Emancipation and Freedom Monument project on Brown’s Island.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Supreme Court rejects Texas election challenge

The Supreme Court announced Friday it won ’ t hear a lawsuit by the state of Texas that sought to overturn Democrat Joseph R. Biden ‘ s victories in four swing states , dealing a massive blow to President Trump ‘ s nearly extinguished prospects for a second term .
The high court said in a brief order that Texas “ has not demonstrated a judicially cognizable interest in the manner in which another State conducts its elections.
” “ All other pending motions are dismissed as moot , ” the court said .
“ We ’ re not finished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said on Newsmax .
He said the president will “ look at other options.
” At a White House holiday party on Friday night , after the court ‘ s decision was released , guests were told that the president would not be joining them to make remarks .
The decision came despite the president imploring the justices publicly to “ save ” the nation from a Biden presidency .
Mr. Trump had called the case “ the big one , ” elevating it in importance above all the other legal challenges filed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Conservative Justices Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Clarence Thomas said they believed the Court was required to hear the case .
But they said they “ would not grant other relief.
” Supporters of the president had hoped that Mr. Trump ‘ s three appointees to the Court — Justices Neil M. Gorsuch , Brett M. Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett — might come to his aid .
But legal analysts in both parties said from the start that the case was a legal “ Hail Mary.
” Texas Attorney General Ken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Supreme Court to invalidate Mr. Biden ‘ s wins in Georgia , Michigan , Pennsylvania and Wisconsin .
He argued that those states illegally expanded their mail-in balloting without the approval of their elected legislatures .
“ I will continue to tirelessly defend the integrity and security of our elections and hold accountable those who shirk established election law for their own convenience , ” Mr. Paxton said .
A total of 126 House Republicans and 18 other Republican-led states joined Texas in asking the high court to reverse Mr. Biden ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But GOP senators largely either stayed out of the case or criticized Texas ’ move .
“ Since Election Night , a lot of people have been confusing voters by spinning Kenyan Birther-type , ‘ Chavez rigged the election from the grave ’ conspiracy theories , but every American who cares about the rule of law should take comfort that the Supreme Court — including all three of President Trump ‘ s picks — closed the book on the nonsense , ” Mr. Sasse said .
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , California Democrat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dismissed out of hand the extreme , unlawful and undemocratic GOP lawsuit to overturn the will of millions of American voters.
” The four battleground states had urged the court not to hear the case , saying Texas didn ’ t suffer an injury sufficient for bringing the court action .
Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro , a Democrat , called Texas ’ move “ seditious ” and “ bogus.
” The president urged the high court publicly several times on Friday to rule in his favor .
“ If the Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American People will win perhaps the most important case in history , and our Electoral Process will be respected again !
” Mr. Trump tweeted .
The president also dangled a promise to the justices — on the presumption that he would gain a second term — that he won ’ t allow Democrats in Congress to “ pack ” the high court if they win the Senate majority in two runoff elections in Georgia next month .
“ If the two [ Republican ] Senators from Georgia should lose , which would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I am the only thing that stands between ‘ Packing the Court ‘ ( last number heard , 25 ) , and preserving it , ” Mr. Trump tweeted .
“ I will not , under any circumstances , Pack the Court !
” The high court ‘ s action came ahead of Monday ’ s vote in the Electoral College .
Under federal law , members of the Electoral College will meet in all 50 state capitals to cast their votes for president , one of the final steps in certifying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spokesman for Mr. Biden , the presumptive president-elect , called the decision “ no surprise.
” He said dozens of judges and Attorney General William Barr also have dismissed the president ’ s “ baseless attempts to deny that he lost the election.
” “ President-elect Biden ‘ s clear and commanding victory will be ratified by the Electoral College on Monday , and he will be sworn in on January 20th , ” said spokesman Michael Gwin .
Mr. Shapiro said after learning of the decision , “ The U.S. Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial process , and its swift denial should make anyone contemplating further attacks on our election think twice.
” Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel , also a Democrat , said the decision “ is an important reminder that we are a nation of laws , and though some may bend to the desire of a single individual , the courts will not.
” Texas Republican Party Chairman Allen West suggested secession might be the answer for pro-Trump states .
“ Perhaps law-abiding states should bond together and form a Union of states that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr. West said .
He said the Court ’ s decision means that states “ can violate the U.S. Constitution and not be held accountable.
” “ This decision will have far-reaching ramifications for the future of our constitutional republic , ” Mr. West said .

The Supreme Court announced Friday it won’t hear a lawsuit by the state of Texas that sought to overturn Democrat Joseph R. Biden’s victories in four swing states, dealing a massive blow to President Trump’s nearly extinguished prospects for a second term.
The high court said in a brief order that Texas “has not demonstrated a judicially cognizable interest in the manner in which another State conducts its elections.”
“All other pending motions are dismissed as moot,” the court said.
Trump lawyer Rudolph W. Giuliani vowed to fight on.
“We’re not finished, believe me,” Mr. Giuliani said on Newsmax. He said the president will “look at other options.”
At a White House holiday party on Friday night, after the court’s decision was released, guests were told that the president would not be joining them to make remarks.
SEE ALSO: Michael Gwin, Joe Biden spokesman, praises Supreme Court rejection of Texas election challenge
The decision came despite the president imploring the justices publicly to “save” the nation from a Biden presidency. Mr. Trump had called the case “the big one,” elevating it in importance above all the other legal challenges filed by his campaign team in six states.
Conservative Justices Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Clarence Thomas said they believed the Court was required to hear the case. But they said they “would not grant other relief.”
Supporters of the president had hoped that Mr. Trump’s three appointees to the Court — Justices Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett M. Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett — might come to his aid. But legal analysts in both parties said from the start that the case was a legal “Hail Mary.”
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, had asked the Supreme Court to invalidate Mr. Biden’s wins in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. He argued that those states illegally expanded their mail-in balloting without the approval of their elected legislatures.
Mr. Paxton called the high court’s move “unfortunate.”
“I will continue to tirelessly defend the integrity and security of our elections and hold accountable those who shirk established election law for their own convenience,” Mr. Paxton said.
A total of 126 House Republicans and 18 other Republican-led states joined Texas in asking the high court to reverse Mr. Biden’s wins in the swing states. But GOP senators largely either stayed out of the case or criticized Texas’ move.
Sen. Ben Sasse, Nebraska Republican, praised the Supreme Court’s decision.
“Since Election Night, a lot of people have been confusing voters by spinning Kenyan Birther-type, ‘Chavez rigged the election from the grave’ conspiracy theories, but every American who cares about the rule of law should take comfort that the Supreme Court — including all three of President Trump’s picks — closed the book on the nonsense,” Mr. Sasse said.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, California Democrat, said the high court “rightly dismissed out of hand the extreme, unlawful and undemocratic GOP lawsuit to overturn the will of millions of American voters.”
The four battleground states had urged the court not to hear the case, saying Texas didn’t suffer an injury sufficient for bringing the court action. Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, called Texas’ move “seditious” and “bogus.”
The president urged the high court publicly several times on Friday to rule in his favor.
“If the Supreme Court shows great Wisdom and Courage, the American People will win perhaps the most important case in history, and our Electoral Process will be respected again!” Mr. Trump tweeted.
The president also dangled a promise to the justices — on the presumption that he would gain a second term — that he won’t allow Democrats in Congress to “pack” the high court if they win the Senate majority in two runoff elections in Georgia next month.
“If the two [Republican] Senators from Georgia should lose, which would be a horrible thing for our Country, I am the only thing that stands between ‘Packing the Court’ (last number heard, 25), and preserving it,” Mr. Trump tweeted. “I will not, under any circumstances, Pack the Court!”
The high court’s action came ahead of Monday’s vote in the Electoral College. Under federal law, members of the Electoral College will meet in all 50 state capitals to cast their votes for president, one of the final steps in certifying Mr. Biden’s win.
A spokesman for Mr. Biden, the presumptive president-elect, called the decision “no surprise.” He said dozens of judges and Attorney General William Barr also have dismissed the president’s “baseless attempts to deny that he lost the election.”
“President-elect Biden’s clear and commanding victory will be ratified by the Electoral College on Monday, and he will be sworn in on January 20th,” said spokesman Michael Gwin.
Mr. Shapiro said after learning of the decision, “The U.S. Supreme Court saw through this seditious abuse of the judicial process, and its swift denial should make anyone contemplating further attacks on our election think twice.”
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, also a Democrat, said the decision “is an important reminder that we are a nation of laws, and though some may bend to the desire of a single individual, the courts will not.”
Texas Republican Party Chairman Allen West suggested secession might be the answer for pro-Trump states.
“Perhaps law-abiding states should bond together and form a Union of states that will abide by the Constitution,” Mr. West said.
He said the Court’s decision means that states “can violate the U.S. Constitution and not be held accountable.”
“This decision will have far-reaching ramifications for the future of our constitutional republic,” Mr. West said.
• Dave Boyer can be reached at dboyer@washingtontimes.com. • Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Owner of St. Cloud's Press Bar faces federal arson counts

ST .
CLOUD , Minn. ( AP ) - The owner of a historic St .
Cloud bar has been indicted on federal arson and wire fraud charges for allegedly setting fire to the business and submitting a fraudulent insurance claim , prosecutors announced Friday .
Andrew Welsh , 41 , of St. Joseph , was arrested Friday by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives .
He is accused of burning down the Press Bar and Parlor , a century-old establishment in downtown St .
Cloud .
Damage was estimated at $ 1 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Welsh with one count of arson , one count of using fire to commit a federal felony and one count of wire fraud .
Welsh was initially charged in state court , but the Stearns County Attorney ’ s Office says the case will now be prosecuted in federal court , where Welsh could face stiffer penalties .
“ We are going to prove that Andrew Welsh is innocent , ” said his attorney , Andy Birrell .
“ It ’ s a case about science , and the science is on our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Welsh , who had a $ 1.35 million insurance policy on the Press Bar and Parlor , used an ignitable liquid to set fire to the bar ’ s basement on Feb. 17 .
The fire spread and destroyed the building .
Days later , Welsh allegedly hired a public insurance adjuster , who claimed Welsh was entitled to more than $ 1.4 million in property damage and other losses .

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (AP) - The owner of a historic St. Cloud bar has been indicted on federal arson and wire fraud charges for allegedly setting fire to the business and submitting a fraudulent insurance claim, prosecutors announced Friday.
Andrew Welsh, 41, of St. Joseph, was arrested Friday by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He is accused of burning down the Press Bar and Parlor, a century-old establishment in downtown St. Cloud. Damage was estimated at $1 million.
A federal indictment unsealed Friday charges Welsh with one count of arson, one count of using fire to commit a federal felony and one count of wire fraud. Welsh was initially charged in state court, but the Stearns County Attorney’s Office says the case will now be prosecuted in federal court, where Welsh could face stiffer penalties.
“We are going to prove that Andrew Welsh is innocent,” said his attorney, Andy Birrell. “It’s a case about science, and the science is on our side.”
According to the federal indictment, Welsh, who had a $1.35 million insurance policy on the Press Bar and Parlor, used an ignitable liquid to set fire to the bar’s basement on Feb. 17. The fire spread and destroyed the building. Days later, Welsh allegedly hired a public insurance adjuster, who claimed Welsh was entitled to more than $1.4 million in property damage and other losses.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Officials: Suspect killed after injuring West Texas deputy

ODESSA , Texas ( AP ) - A suspect being pursued by sheriff ’ s deputies in West Texas was @ @ @ @ @ in the leg , authorities said .
The Ector County sheriff ’ s office said @ @ @ @ @ to pull over a person wanted on a parole violation when the vehicle with two @ @ @ @ @ a chase in Odessa .
When the vehicle eventually stopped , the two people fled @ @ @ @ @ Sheriff Mike Griffis said one of the suspects then pulled out a gun and fired @ @ @ @ @ one of them .
Griffis said law enforcement then returned fire , killing the suspect @ @ @ @ @ office said that the deputy was taken to a hospital and later released .
The @ @ @ @ @ away .

ODESSA, Texas (AP) - A suspect being pursued by sheriff’s deputies in West Texas was killed after shooting a deputy in the leg, authorities said.
The Ector County sheriff’s office said deputies on Thursday were trying to pull over a person wanted on a parole violation when the vehicle with two people inside led deputies on a chase in Odessa. When the vehicle eventually stopped, the two people fled on foot.
Ector County Sheriff Mike Griffis said one of the suspects then pulled out a gun and fired at the deputies, hitting one of them. Griffis said law enforcement then returned fire, killing the suspect.
The sheriff’s office said that the deputy was taken to a hospital and later released.
The second person being pursued ran away.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--New Phillies boss Dombrowski plans retool, not rebuild

Dave Dombrowski wants to win again sooner rather than later .
The longtime executive moved to Nashville , Tennessee , in September as a consultant for Music City Baseball but found out this week that expansion won ’ t be entertained for more than a year at least .
So he finalized a deal Friday to become the Philadelphia Phillies ’ president of baseball operations , convinced the team is not far from its first World Series title since 2008 .
“ I consider a retool , not a rebuild for sure , ” Dombrowski said .
“ There ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ club.
” He views the Phillies as “ sort of a sleeping giant because they ’ ve got a big market .
And they ’ ve got a good , solid owner that wants to spend money to win.
” “ It ’ s the passionate East Coast baseball city , right ?
Quick to boo if things don ’ t work , but great to cheer , ” he said .
“ So there ’ s a lot of upside potential .
But then I will also say that over the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whatever it is , you sort of scratch your head and say , ‘ Gee , I wonder why they ’ re not winning ?
’ ” He cited right fielder Bryce Harper , starting pitchers Aaron Nola , Zach Wheeler and Zach Eflin , manager Joe Girardi and managing partner John Middleton as cause of hope .
“ I know John wants to win .
We have flexibility of finances , ” Dombrowski said .
“ But when I say that , I don ’ t think it ’ s unlimited amount @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s some type of budget attached to that .
We will work within that .
But we ’ re also more , we want to win this year.
” Recognizable for his silver hair and ever-present smile , Dombrowski led teams to division titles in seven of his last nine seasons .
He became Boston ’ s president of baseball operations in August 2015 and celebrated in 2018 when the Red Sox set a club record with 108 wins and beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series for their fourth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fired in September 2019 with a 76-67 record .
His salary ran through October 2020 , and he spurned interviews with several clubs that reached out this fall .
Phillies president Andy MacPhail called again Saturday , and Dombrowski said he was told of the nebulous expansion timetable by MLB on Monday and Tuesday .
Dombrowski spoke with Middleton for an hour on Tuesday , then again on Wednesday .
“ It was John reaching out and really trying to make me part of the Phillies organization , ” Dombrowski said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve known him throughout the years .
He has a great reputation .
I think he ’ s a great owner .
Wants to win.
” Now 64 , Dombrowski started work in 1977 on his thesis at Western Michigan ’ s Lee Honors College : “ The General Manager , ‘ The Man in the Middle.
’ ” He took a job with the Chicago White Sox the following year , joined Montreal as director of player development for the 1987 season and became the Expos ’ GM in July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expansion Marlins as GM in September 1991 and switch to Detroit ’ s president in November 2002 .
When he was fired by the Tigers , he was hired by the Red Sox just two weeks later .
Philadelphia finished third in the NL East at 28-32 in the pandemic-shortened season , losing seven of its last eight and winding up one game back for the NL ’ s second wild card .
The Phillies missed the postseason for the ninth consecutive year , and Matt Klentak was reassigned after five seasons as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the pandemic , Philadelphia had the 12th-highest payroll at a prorated $ 64.5 million as of Aug. 1 .
A person familiar with the Phillies ’ finances told The Associated Press the team lost $ 145 million during the shortened season played without fans .
“ I wouldn ’ t expect it to be at that same amount just last year , ” Dombrowski said of the payroll .
“ There ’ s flexibility to do things .
But I think we ’ ll look at each and every move in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t look at this as a situation where we ’ re one player away from winning , ” he added .
“ I think we need to do a few things with this team .
And I really don ’ t want to be sacrificing people that might be part of our future success for short-term gains if it ’ s not the difference maker.
” Dombrowski probably will hire a GM underneath him but won ’ t commit 100 % .
Klentak will have some yet-to-be-defined role , and Dombrowski plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who engineered the team ’ s last title as GM from 2006-09 .
Dombrowski views Girardi as “ a championship type of manager , and that ’ s what you look to have in every position .
So we ’ re fortunate.
” He would like to bring back catcher JT Realmuto , who is a free agent , but isn ’ t sure where negotiations will lead .
Dombrowski ’ s team-building philosophy tends more toward traditional than avant-garde , though he has accepted some of the recent changes .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he said .
“ I still like our starters to give us six-to-seven innings , ” though he does believe in pitch limits .
He is against trends toward pull hitting , values offense from his middle infielders and center fielders more than he used to , and is convinced bullpen depth is more important than ever , though he believes in a specified closer .
Dombrowski was infected with the novel coronavirus about a month ago - “ It was not an easy couple of weeks ” - and does not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the near-term because no one is .
“ I guess right now it ’ s a Zoom world , ” he said .

Dave Dombrowski wants to win again sooner rather than later.
The longtime executive moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in September as a consultant for Music City Baseball but found out this week that expansion won’t be entertained for more than a year at least. So he finalized a deal Friday to become the Philadelphia Phillies’ president of baseball operations, convinced the team is not far from its first World Series title since 2008.
“I consider a retool, not a rebuild for sure,” Dombrowski said. “There’s too many good players on the club.”
He views the Phillies as “sort of a sleeping giant because they’ve got a big market. And they’ve got a good, solid owner that wants to spend money to win.”
“It’s the passionate East Coast baseball city, right? Quick to boo if things don’t work, but great to cheer,” he said. “So there’s a lot of upside potential. But then I will also say that over the last handful, half a dozen years, whatever it is, you sort of scratch your head and say, ‘Gee, I wonder why they’re not winning?’”
He cited right fielder Bryce Harper, starting pitchers Aaron Nola, Zach Wheeler and Zach Eflin, manager Joe Girardi and managing partner John Middleton as cause of hope.
“I know John wants to win. We have flexibility of finances,” Dombrowski said. “But when I say that, I don’t think it’s unlimited amount of funds. You always realize there’s some type of budget attached to that. We will work within that. But we’re also more, we want to win this year.”
Recognizable for his silver hair and ever-present smile, Dombrowski led teams to division titles in seven of his last nine seasons. He became Boston’s president of baseball operations in August 2015 and celebrated in 2018 when the Red Sox set a club record with 108 wins and beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series for their fourth title in 15 seasons.
He was fired in September 2019 with a 76-67 record. His salary ran through October 2020, and he spurned interviews with several clubs that reached out this fall.
Phillies president Andy MacPhail called again Saturday, and Dombrowski said he was told of the nebulous expansion timetable by MLB on Monday and Tuesday.
Dombrowski spoke with Middleton for an hour on Tuesday, then again on Wednesday.
“It was John reaching out and really trying to make me part of the Phillies organization,” Dombrowski said. “I feel very comfortable with him. I’ve known him throughout the years. He has a great reputation. I think he’s a great owner. Wants to win.”
Now 64, Dombrowski started work in 1977 on his thesis at Western Michigan’s Lee Honors College: “The General Manager, ‘The Man in the Middle.’” He took a job with the Chicago White Sox the following year, joined Montreal as director of player development for the 1987 season and became the Expos’ GM in July 1988. He moved on to the expansion Marlins as GM in September 1991 and switch to Detroit’s president in November 2002. When he was fired by the Tigers, he was hired by the Red Sox just two weeks later.
Philadelphia finished third in the NL East at 28-32 in the pandemic-shortened season, losing seven of its last eight and winding up one game back for the NL’s second wild card. The Phillies missed the postseason for the ninth consecutive year, and Matt Klentak was reassigned after five seasons as general manager.
In an industry crushed by the pandemic, Philadelphia had the 12th-highest payroll at a prorated $64.5 million as of Aug. 1. A person familiar with the Phillies’ finances told The Associated Press the team lost $145 million during the shortened season played without fans.
“I wouldn’t expect it to be at that same amount just last year,” Dombrowski said of the payroll. “There’s flexibility to do things. But I think we’ll look at each and every move in an intelligent fashion.
“I don’t look at this as a situation where we’re one player away from winning,” he added. “I think we need to do a few things with this team. And I really don’t want to be sacrificing people that might be part of our future success for short-term gains if it’s not the difference maker.”
Dombrowski probably will hire a GM underneath him but won’t commit 100%. Klentak will have some yet-to-be-defined role, and Dombrowski plans to consult with senior adviser Pat Gillick, who engineered the team’s last title as GM from 2006-09. Dombrowski views Girardi as “a championship type of manager, and that’s what you look to have in every position. So we’re fortunate.”
He would like to bring back catcher JT Realmuto, who is a free agent, but isn’t sure where negotiations will lead.
Dombrowski’s team-building philosophy tends more toward traditional than avant-garde, though he has accepted some of the recent changes.
“I’m a little old fashioned,” he said. “I still like our starters to give us six-to-seven innings,” though he does believe in pitch limits. He is against trends toward pull hitting, values offense from his middle infielders and center fielders more than he used to, and is convinced bullpen depth is more important than ever, though he believes in a specified closer.
Dombrowski was infected with the novel coronavirus about a month ago - “It was not an easy couple of weeks” - and does not plan on going to the office in the near-term because no one is.
“I guess right now it’s a Zoom world,” he said.
___
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB and https://twitter.com/Jake_Seiner


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Texas man injures officer, then kills self after standoff

PLANO , Texas ( AP ) - A 60-year-old man injured a police officer in a Dallas suburb after opening @ @ @ @ @ and then killed himself following a standoff , authorities said .
The officer had gone @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday to conduct a welfare check , police said .
The officer was in @ @ @ @ @ was shot .
Police said the man then ignored requests by crisis negotiators to come @ @ @ @ @ Police said that after several hours , the man emerged from his apartment holding a @ @ @ @ @ No shots were fired by officers during the incident , police said .
The officer @ @ @ @ @ full recovery , police said .

PLANO, Texas (AP) - A 60-year-old man injured a police officer in a Dallas suburb after opening fire at an apartment complex and then killed himself following a standoff, authorities said.
The officer had gone to the apartments in Plano on Thursday to conduct a welfare check, police said. The officer was in his patrol car when he was shot.
Police said the man then ignored requests by crisis negotiators to come out of his apartment. Police said that after several hours, the man emerged from his apartment holding a gun and shot himself.
No shots were fired by officers during the incident, police said.
The officer is expected to make a full recovery, police said.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Warrant: Trooper hit prone suspect 18 times with flashlight

MONROE , La .
( AP ) - Arrest documents filed in the case of a Louisiana state trooper facing battery and malfeasance charges say he used a flashlight to strike a suspect 18 times in 24 seconds .
State police announced the arrest of Monroe-based trooper Jacob Brown on Thursday .
A review of arrest records Friday by The News-Star in Monroe shows that Brown is accused of beating the suspect with a flashlight equipped with a special tip to break car safety glass .
Brown has not commented publicly on the case and online records provided no information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on bond and is on administrative leave .
The warrant , based in part on video of the incident , said the man was on the ground and was not behaving aggressively .
The incident happened in May 2019 .
The suspect , Aaron Bowman , is suing Louisiana State Police and multiple Ouachita Parish agencies in connection with the beating .
Brown labeled his body worn camera video as a “ citizen encounter.
” The News-Star reported that state police policy would require that it be classified as “ criminal arrest ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the BWC video being miscategorized and not being labeled , the footage was not reviewed by supervisors , ” the warrant states .
“ Additionally , instead of ensuring the video would be retained through the adjudication process , the video would be automatically deleted after one fiscal year.
” Bowman ’ s lawsuit says he suffered lacerations , a broken arm and broken ribs in his May 2019 encounter with law enforcement .
Brown was interviewed on Nov. 19 , according to the warrant , and told investigators he had seen Bowman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s fingers were interlocked on top of his head .
“ Brown explained he was hitting Bowman with his flashlight for ‘ pain compliance ’ to force Bowman to release his hands so that he could be handcuffed , ” the warrant reads .
“ We are now demanding body camera footage and full accountability of all officers involved in this incident who either participated in Mr.
Bowman ’ s unjustified beating or conspired to cover up the incident by failing to report the actions of the officers involved , ” said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Banks-Miley Law Group in Monroe .

MONROE, La. (AP) - Arrest documents filed in the case of a Louisiana state trooper facing battery and malfeasance charges say he used a flashlight to strike a suspect 18 times in 24 seconds.
State police announced the arrest of Monroe-based trooper Jacob Brown on Thursday. A review of arrest records Friday by The News-Star in Monroe shows that Brown is accused of beating the suspect with a flashlight equipped with a special tip to break car safety glass.
Brown has not commented publicly on the case and online records provided no information on his attorney. He is free on bond and is on administrative leave.
The warrant, based in part on video of the incident, said the man was on the ground and was not behaving aggressively. The incident happened in May 2019.
The suspect, Aaron Bowman, is suing Louisiana State Police and multiple Ouachita Parish agencies in connection with the beating.
Brown labeled his body worn camera video as a “citizen encounter.” The News-Star reported that state police policy would require that it be classified as “criminal arrest” or “criminal investigation.”
“With the BWC video being miscategorized and not being labeled, the footage was not reviewed by supervisors,” the warrant states. “Additionally, instead of ensuring the video would be retained through the adjudication process, the video would be automatically deleted after one fiscal year.”
Bowman’s lawsuit says he suffered lacerations, a broken arm and broken ribs in his May 2019 encounter with law enforcement.
Brown was interviewed on Nov. 19, according to the warrant, and told investigators he had seen Bowman hit one deputy and that Bowman’s fingers were interlocked on top of his head.
“Brown explained he was hitting Bowman with his flashlight for ‘pain compliance’ to force Bowman to release his hands so that he could be handcuffed,” the warrant reads.
Bowman’s attorneys released a statement thanking state police for opening the investigation.
“We are now demanding body camera footage and full accountability of all officers involved in this incident who either participated in Mr. Bowman’s unjustified beating or conspired to cover up the incident by failing to report the actions of the officers involved,” said the statement from the Pleasant, Williams & Banks-Miley Law Group in Monroe.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Indian Health Service plans for COVID vaccine distribution

FLAGSTAFF , Ariz. ( AP ) - The federal agency that provides health care to Native Americans said Friday it will receive more than enough vaccines to protect all the people working in hospitals and clinics , including doctors , nurses and support staff .
The Indian Health Service , treated much like a state for distribution purposes , submitted a plan to vaccinate more than 2 million Native Americans and Alaska Natives .
The agency expects to receive 22,425 doses of the Pfizer vaccine next week and 46,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine before the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people work at the 338 facilities that chose to get the vaccines through the Indian Health Service .
Other tribal health facilities opted to be covered under states ’ allocations .
The ones under the Indian Health Service are encouraged to follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines , which prioritize health care workers , said Rear Adm. Francis Frazier , who is leading the agency ’ s COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force .
Tribes can deviate from the guidelines .
For example , a tribe might consider elders as being 55 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ They really are the best determinants of the needs of their population , ” he told The Associated Press .
The Navajo Nation is expecting 3,900 doses on Monday and Tuesday that will be delivered under police escort , said Dr. Loretta Christensen , the chief medical officer for the Navajo area Indian Health Service .
About 7,900 doses of the Moderna vaccine should arrive the following week .
Those vaccines will cover healthcare workers , emergency medical staff , traditional practitioners working in Indian Health Service facilities , and the staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christensen said .
The first in line for vaccinations within the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma includes hospital workers , first responders , and participants and workers in the Cherokee Elder Program .
Those whose first language is Cherokee and others considered tribal treasures would follow .
“ I know some of our Cherokee elders may have reservations about taking the vaccine , ” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said in a statement .
“ But it will save our elders , our speakers , our national treasures and frontline workers.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas serve the largest populations of Native Americans , meaning they will get more vaccines than other Indian Health Service areas .
The Alaska region chose to get allocations from the state , while one facility in the Navajo area - the Utah Navajo Health System - also went with the state for distribution .
The Seattle Indian Health Board chose to get its allocation from Washington because of its relationship with state officials and knowing that the Indian Health Service is chronically underfunded , said Abigail Echo-Hawk , the board ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choose one or the other is , in my perspective , a very bad decision , ” she said .
“ It is limiting our access to life-saving vaccines .
We need as much access as possible because we have been more disproportionately impacted.
” Like others , she expects some hesitancy in Indian Country .
Tribal health facilities across the U.S. have relied on elders as trusted members of the community to advocate for previous vaccines , as well as messaging that promotes protection of the next generation , Indian Health Service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researching the coronavirus vaccines but still has questions about any adverse , long-term effects .
Still , she ’ s keeping an open mind because she is considered an essential employee and has a grandmother and other high-risk people at home .
“ ( It ’ s ) kind of like a pick-your-poison game at this point , ” said Begay , who is Dine , the Navajo word for “ the people.
” “ If you have underlying conditions like asthma , high blood pressure , obesity , diabetes , you either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you take a vaccine and experience some side effects later on.
” “ If I could get it , I would probably be setting an example for my own family to see how it would work , ” she said .
Crystal Kee , a 43-year-old Navajo woman who works in early childhood development , wouldn ’ t be among the first group vaccinated .
But she encouraged anyone who is able to get the vaccine to help protect children , the elderly and healthcare workers .
“ Along this entire journey has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Kee , of Steamboat , Arizona .
“ In terms of just the vaccine development , I feel like it offers us a glimmer of hope and protection , not selfishly … but really for others .
”

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - The federal agency that provides health care to Native Americans said Friday it will receive more than enough vaccines to protect all the people working in hospitals and clinics, including doctors, nurses and support staff.
The Indian Health Service, treated much like a state for distribution purposes, submitted a plan to vaccinate more than 2 million Native Americans and Alaska Natives. The agency expects to receive 22,425 doses of the Pfizer vaccine next week and 46,000 doses of the Moderna vaccine before the end of the year, officials said.
More than 44,000 people work at the 338 facilities that chose to get the vaccines through the Indian Health Service. Other tribal health facilities opted to be covered under states’ allocations.
The ones under the Indian Health Service are encouraged to follow U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, which prioritize health care workers, said Rear Adm. Francis Frazier, who is leading the agency’s COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force. Tribes can deviate from the guidelines. For example, a tribe might consider elders as being 55 and older, rather than 65.
“They really are the best determinants of the needs of their population,” he told The Associated Press.
The Navajo Nation is expecting 3,900 doses on Monday and Tuesday that will be delivered under police escort, said Dr. Loretta Christensen, the chief medical officer for the Navajo area Indian Health Service. About 7,900 doses of the Moderna vaccine should arrive the following week.
Those vaccines will cover healthcare workers, emergency medical staff, traditional practitioners working in Indian Health Service facilities, and the staff and patients in long-term nursing facilities, Christensen said.
The first in line for vaccinations within the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma includes hospital workers, first responders, and participants and workers in the Cherokee Elder Program. Those whose first language is Cherokee and others considered tribal treasures would follow.
“I know some of our Cherokee elders may have reservations about taking the vaccine,” Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said in a statement. “But it will save our elders, our speakers, our national treasures and frontline workers.”
The Navajo, Phoenix and Oklahoma City areas serve the largest populations of Native Americans, meaning they will get more vaccines than other Indian Health Service areas. The Alaska region chose to get allocations from the state, while one facility in the Navajo area - the Utah Navajo Health System - also went with the state for distribution.
The Seattle Indian Health Board chose to get its allocation from Washington because of its relationship with state officials and knowing that the Indian Health Service is chronically underfunded, said Abigail Echo-Hawk, the board’s chief research officer.
“Making us choose one or the other is, in my perspective, a very bad decision,” she said. “It is limiting our access to life-saving vaccines. We need as much access as possible because we have been more disproportionately impacted.”
Like others, she expects some hesitancy in Indian Country.
Tribal health facilities across the U.S. have relied on elders as trusted members of the community to advocate for previous vaccines, as well as messaging that promotes protection of the next generation, Indian Health Service officials said.
Annarita Begay has been researching the coronavirus vaccines but still has questions about any adverse, long-term effects. Still, she’s keeping an open mind because she is considered an essential employee and has a grandmother and other high-risk people at home.
“(It’s) kind of like a pick-your-poison game at this point,” said Begay, who is Dine, the Navajo word for “the people.” “If you have underlying conditions like asthma, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, you either have that and get COVID, or you take a vaccine and experience some side effects later on.”
“If I could get it, I would probably be setting an example for my own family to see how it would work,” she said.
Crystal Kee, a 43-year-old Navajo woman who works in early childhood development, wouldn’t be among the first group vaccinated. But she encouraged anyone who is able to get the vaccine to help protect children, the elderly and healthcare workers.
“Along this entire journey has been significant heartbreak and loss,” said Kee, of Steamboat, Arizona. “In terms of just the vaccine development, I feel like it offers us a glimmer of hope and protection, not selfishly … but really for others.”


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Official: Please skip holiday gatherings as virus surges

MONTGOMERY , Ala. ( AP ) - Medical officials on Friday pleaded with people to forgo Christmas parties and large gatherings as the state faces a record-setting surge in COVID-19 cases that looks to only get worse .
Dr. Mark Wilson , the health officer for Jefferson County , delivered the plea in a press conference with doctors from UAB Hospital in Birmingham as the state set multiple COVID-19 records in the wake of Thanksgiving gatherings .
“ Holiday parties are just not a good idea right now , ” Wilson said .
” This Christmas please have a small @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in your household.
” Wilson said he understands this is an additional sacrifice after people have already changed so much of their daily lives , but said it is needed to keep people alive until there is access to the vaccine .
Alabama this week hit record highs for daily cases and the number of COVID-19 patients in state hospitals and as well as a jump in the number of reported deaths .
The seven-day rolling average of daily deaths in Alabama has risen over the past two weeks from nearly 22 deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 37 deaths per day on Dec. 10 .
The state also set a record low for the percentage of intensive care beds available with 7 % of ICU beds empty statewide .
The number of COVID-19 patients at UAB has doubled since Thanksgiving , and hospitals officials said projections indicate it could double again by Christmas .
“ Most of these cases are attributable to travel and small gatherings , ” said Dr. Sarah Nafziger , co-chair of UAB ’ s Emergency Management Committee .
Nafziger urged people to treat everyone they encounter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mask and socially distancing .
“ We ’ ve got to stop this now , ” Nafziger said .
Since the pandemic began , the state health department has reported more than 280,000 confirmed and probable virus cases and more than 4,000 confirmed and probable virus deaths in Alabama .
While the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms in most people , it can be deadly for the elderly and people with other , serious health problems .
The doctors said the bright stop on the horizon is the coming vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some months before it is available to the average Alabamian .
State Health Officer Scott Harris said Wednesday that hospitals should begin receiving vaccine allotments next week , although health care workers and nursing home residents have priority for the initial doses .
“ It ’ s likely to be early summer before we have enough for the average Alabamian to receive their vaccine , ” Harris said Wednesday .

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - Medical officials on Friday pleaded with people to forgo Christmas parties and large gatherings as the state faces a record-setting surge in COVID-19 cases that looks to only get worse.
Dr. Mark Wilson, the health officer for Jefferson County, delivered the plea in a press conference with doctors from UAB Hospital in Birmingham as the state set multiple COVID-19 records in the wake of Thanksgiving gatherings.
“Holiday parties are just not a good idea right now,” Wilson said. ”This Christmas please have a small gathering with just those people who live in your household.”
Wilson said he understands this is an additional sacrifice after people have already changed so much of their daily lives, but said it is needed to keep people alive until there is access to the vaccine.
Alabama this week hit record highs for daily cases and the number of COVID-19 patients in state hospitals and as well as a jump in the number of reported deaths. The seven-day rolling average of daily deaths in Alabama has risen over the past two weeks from nearly 22 deaths per day on Nov. 26 to almost 37 deaths per day on Dec. 10.
The state also set a record low for the percentage of intensive care beds available with 7% of ICU beds empty statewide.
The number of COVID-19 patients at UAB has doubled since Thanksgiving, and hospitals officials said projections indicate it could double again by Christmas.
“Most of these cases are attributable to travel and small gatherings,” said Dr. Sarah Nafziger, co-chair of UAB’s Emergency Management Committee.
Nafziger urged people to treat everyone they encounter as if they have COVID-19 by wearing a mask and socially distancing.
“We’ve got to stop this now,” Nafziger said.
Since the pandemic began, the state health department has reported more than 280,000 confirmed and probable virus cases and more than 4,000 confirmed and probable virus deaths in Alabama. While the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms in most people, it can be deadly for the elderly and people with other, serious health problems.
The doctors said the bright stop on the horizon is the coming vaccine, although it is expected to be some months before it is available to the average Alabamian.
State Health Officer Scott Harris said Wednesday that hospitals should begin receiving vaccine allotments next week, although health care workers and nursing home residents have priority for the initial doses.
“It’s likely to be early summer before we have enough for the average Alabamian to receive their vaccine,” Harris said Wednesday.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey this week extended a statewide mask order until January 22.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Police: Oklahoma City officer fatally shots man with knife

OKLAHOMA CITY ( AP ) - Oklahoma City police say an officer fatally shot a man who threatened officers with @ @ @ @ @ Capt .
Daniel Stewart said during a news conference that police encountered the man after @ @ @ @ @ a business .
Stewart said the first officer to arrive on the scene backed away @ @ @ @ @ lethal support ” after the man came toward him with a knife .
Stewart said @ @ @ @ @ dialogue and less lethal tactics , including deploying a stun gun and using pepper spray @ @ @ @ @ officers with the knife in hand .
“ He ran at the officer , and @ @ @ @ @ and the officer was forced to discharge his weapon , ” Stewart said .
Stewart @ @ @ @ @ the scene .
Dozens of protestors gathered Friday afternoon at the scene , chanting “ @ @ @ @ @

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Oklahoma City police say an officer fatally shot a man who threatened officers with a knife Friday.
Police Capt. Daniel Stewart said during a news conference that police encountered the man after getting a disturbance call from a business.
Stewart said the first officer to arrive on the scene backed away and called for “less lethal support” after the man came toward him with a knife.
Stewart said that after multiple attempts at dialogue and less lethal tactics, including deploying a stun gun and using pepper spray, the man advanced toward officers with the knife in hand.
“He ran at the officer, and he had a knife, and the officer was forced to discharge his weapon,” Stewart said.
Stewart said the man died at the scene.
Dozens of protestors gathered Friday afternoon at the scene, chanting “Black Lives Matter.”


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Sparks police shoot armed suspect after knife altercation

RENO , Nev. ( AP ) - Sparks police shot a man who pointed a gun at two officers after @ @ @ @ @ altercation with a knife , Reno police said .
The Sparks officers were responding to @ @ @ @ @ involving a person waving a knife in the air in a parking lot near Pyramid @ @ @ @ @ about 11:52 p.m. Wednesday , Reno police said .
They saw the suspect ’ s @ @ @ @ @ lot and attempted to make a traffic stop .
But the suspect headed north on @ @ @ @ @ traffic lights before he exited the vehicle at the intersection with McCarran Boulevard and pointed @ @ @ @ @ , police said Thursday .
Two Sparks officers fired their weapons , striking the suspect @ @ @ @ @ condition .
No one else was hurt .
Reno Police are leading an investigation into @ @ @ @ @ County protocols .
Anyone with information is urged to call Reno police at 775-334-2188 or @ @ @ @ @

RENO, Nev. (AP) - Sparks police shot a man who pointed a gun at two officers after fleeing the scene of an altercation with a knife, Reno police said.
The Sparks officers were responding to a report of a disturbance involving a person waving a knife in the air in a parking lot near Pyramid Way and Victorian Avenue at about 11:52 p.m. Wednesday, Reno police said.
They saw the suspect’s vehicle leaving in the parking lot and attempted to make a traffic stop. But the suspect headed north on Pyramid Way and ran several traffic lights before he exited the vehicle at the intersection with McCarran Boulevard and pointed a gun at the officers, police said Thursday.
Two Sparks officers fired their weapons, striking the suspect who was hospitalized in stable condition. No one else was hurt.
Reno Police are leading an investigation into the officer-involved shooting under Washoe County protocols.
Anyone with information is urged to call Reno police at 775-334-2188 or Secret Witness at 755-322-4900.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Man awarded $8M in police scandal arrested in shooting

BALTIMORE ( AP ) - A Baltimore man awarded nearly $ 8 million in November in the Gun Trace Task Force police scandal has been arrested in Virginia after a woman was shot at a motel , authorities said .
Umar Burley , 50 , was charged by Harrisonburg police with malicious wounding and attempted murder , The Baltimore Sun reported Friday .
Police said additional charges are pending because Burley shot at police during a chase .
Police said officers called to a motel around 10 a.m. Thursday for a shooting found a 32-year-old woman with a gunshot wound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Scott Drugo said that the woman was engaged to Burley .
Officers said Burley fled in a truck and was spotted on Interstate 81 by a Virginia state trooper who tried to stop him .
Burley sped away after shooting out the back window of the trooper ’ s vehicle .
The pursuit ended on Route 11 in Shenandoah County , where state police said officers forced Burley off the road .
In November , Burley and a friend were awarded a total of nearly $ 8 million .
They were sent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them a decade ago during an encounter with members of a rogue police unit that brutalized , robbed and falsely arrested residents .

BALTIMORE (AP) - A Baltimore man awarded nearly $8 million in November in the Gun Trace Task Force police scandal has been arrested in Virginia after a woman was shot at a motel, authorities said.
Umar Burley, 50, was charged by Harrisonburg police with malicious wounding and attempted murder, The Baltimore Sun reported Friday. Police said additional charges are pending because Burley shot at police during a chase.
Police said officers called to a motel around 10 a.m. Thursday for a shooting found a 32-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to the face. Harrisonburg Police Sgt. Scott Drugo said that the woman was engaged to Burley.
Officers said Burley fled in a truck and was spotted on Interstate 81 by a Virginia state trooper who tried to stop him. Burley sped away after shooting out the back window of the trooper’s vehicle.
The pursuit ended on Route 11 in Shenandoah County, where state police said officers forced Burley off the road .
In November, Burley and a friend were awarded a total of nearly $8 million. They were sent to prison after drugs were planted on them a decade ago during an encounter with members of a rogue police unit that brutalized, robbed and falsely arrested residents.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Rhode Island attorney general creates civil rights team

PROVIDENCE , R.I. ( AP ) - Rhode Island ’ s attorney general has created a special four-member team of investigators to field civil rights complaints that reach the office .
Attorney General Peter Neronha said Thursday that the team will investigate cases such as police misconduct or hate crimes .
The team , which is comprised of three experienced criminal prosecutors and the office ’ s civil rights advocate , will gain greater expertise in civil rights law and what constitutes a violation to guarantee accurate and consistent investigations .
Neronha emphasized the importance of the perspective of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hoffman , who traditionally handles complaints that do not rise to criminal charges .
“ Getting the perspective of someone who doesn ’ t work with police officers on a daily basis I think is a model that can really help , ” Neronha said .
“ It brings to these cases someone who can test us : Are we seeing this the right way ?
Is it really what we think it is ?
” Neronha ’ s plan also recommends local police departments designate a “ hate crimes and civil rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to share information and training opportunities with officers .
“ We believe these cases are really important and we want to get them right .
Getting it right might means bringing a charge , or not charging might be the right thing .
( But ) the message is , this is an area of priority for us , ” Neronha said .

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island’s attorney general has created a special four-member team of investigators to field civil rights complaints that reach the office.
Attorney General Peter Neronha said Thursday that the team will investigate cases such as police misconduct or hate crimes.
The team, which is comprised of three experienced criminal prosecutors and the office’s civil rights advocate, will gain greater expertise in civil rights law and what constitutes a violation to guarantee accurate and consistent investigations.
Neronha emphasized the importance of the perspective of the office’s civil rights advocate Keith Hoffman, who traditionally handles complaints that do not rise to criminal charges.
“Getting the perspective of someone who doesn’t work with police officers on a daily basis I think is a model that can really help,” Neronha said. “It brings to these cases someone who can test us: Are we seeing this the right way? Is it really what we think it is?”
Neronha’s plan also recommends local police departments designate a “hate crimes and civil rights liaison” to work with the team to share information and training opportunities with officers.
“We believe these cases are really important and we want to get them right. Getting it right might means bringing a charge, or not charging might be the right thing. (But) the message is, this is an area of priority for us,” Neronha said.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Greene County deputy seriously injured by fleeing motorist

BRIGHTON , Mo .
( AP ) - A Greene County deputy was seriously injured Friday when a driver fleeing @ @ @ @ @ veer off the road and strike the officer , Greene County authorities said .
The @ @ @ @ @ Highway 13 near Brighton while deploying stop sticks to end the chase , according to @ @ @ @ @ the Greene County Sheriff ’ s Office .
Winston said in the news release that @ @ @ @ @ the road and struck a deputy “ in what appears to be a deliberate act.
@ @ @ @ @ treated at a Springfield-area hospital .
The pursuit began when Greene County deputies responded to @ @ @ @ @ disturbance in Springfield .
While officers were at the victim ’ s house , the @ @ @ @ @ fled when officers tried to stop the car .
The suspect was taken into custody @ @ @ @ @ injured .
No other details were released .

BRIGHTON, Mo. (AP) - A Greene County deputy was seriously injured Friday when a driver fleeing from authorities appeared to deliberately veer off the road and strike the officer, Greene County authorities said.
The deputy was struck Friday on Highway 13 near Brighton while deploying stop sticks to end the chase, according to James Winston, spokesman for the Greene County Sheriff’s Office.
Winston said in the news release that the suspect veered off of the road and struck a deputy “in what appears to be a deliberate act.”
The deputy was being treated at a Springfield-area hospital.
The pursuit began when Greene County deputies responded to a call about a domestic disturbance in Springfield. While officers were at the victim’s house, the suspect drove past and then fled when officers tried to stop the car.
The suspect was taken into custody immediately after the deputy was injured. No other details were released.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Judge denies motion to toss Pennsylvania mask mandate

HARRISBURG , Pa. ( AP ) - Pennsylvania may continue to enforce its mask mandate and perform contact tracing , a federal judge decided Friday , ruling against two families who claim the pandemic measures violate their constitutional rights .
Like most other states , Pennsylvania requires people to wear masks to help slow the spread of the coronavirus .
The state also has a contact tracing program in which people who have been potentially exposed to the virus are identified and quarantined .
The plaintiffs ’ lawsuit argues that masks have “ become a symbol of government oppression ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message that the wearer has surrendered his or her freedom to the government.
” The contact tracing program is intrusive and subjects people to state surveillance , the suit argues .
Both families say they have removed their children from school , and are avoiding public places where their movements might be documented , because of the state ’ s pandemic measures .
U.S. District Judge John E. Jones III on Friday ruled against the families ’ request for a preliminary injunction that would block enforcement of the mask mandate and halt the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying that while the lawsuit “ expresses real and significant constitutional concerns , ” the plaintiffs “ have not suffered an injury sufficient to warrant judicial review.
” “ Nearly nine months , and quickly approaching a full year , into this global pandemic , we are all fatigued , ” wrote Jones , who was appointed to the federal bench by then-President George W. Bush .
“ All of our lives have changed drastically , and , indeed , many of us are weary of continued mitigation efforts .
But our Constitution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frustrations without concrete , particularized , and non-hypothetical allegations that are capable of full resolution by this court .
”

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) - Pennsylvania may continue to enforce its mask mandate and perform contact tracing, a federal judge decided Friday, ruling against two families who claim the pandemic measures violate their constitutional rights.
Like most other states, Pennsylvania requires people to wear masks to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. The state also has a contact tracing program in which people who have been potentially exposed to the virus are identified and quarantined.
The plaintiffs’ lawsuit argues that masks have “become a symbol of government oppression” and that wearing them “conveys the message that the wearer has surrendered his or her freedom to the government.”
The contact tracing program is intrusive and subjects people to state surveillance, the suit argues.
Both families say they have removed their children from school, and are avoiding public places where their movements might be documented, because of the state’s pandemic measures.
U.S. District Judge John E. Jones III on Friday ruled against the families’ request for a preliminary injunction that would block enforcement of the mask mandate and halt the state’s contact tracing program, saying that while the lawsuit “expresses real and significant constitutional concerns,” the plaintiffs “have not suffered an injury sufficient to warrant judicial review.”
“Nearly nine months, and quickly approaching a full year, into this global pandemic, we are all fatigued,” wrote Jones, who was appointed to the federal bench by then-President George W. Bush. “All of our lives have changed drastically, and, indeed, many of us are weary of continued mitigation efforts. But our Constitution does not permit us to consider such frustrations without concrete, particularized, and non-hypothetical allegations that are capable of full resolution by this court.”


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Judge invalidates restrictions on sales of homemade foods

BISMARCK , N.D. ( AP ) - A North Dakota judge ruled the state ’ s Department of Health overstepped its authority when it made rules that restricted homemade foods that can be offered for sale .
Thursday ’ s ruling by South Central District Judge Cynthia Feland invalidates the rules that went into effect nearly a year ago on so-called “ cottage foods , ” which are generally homemade , home-baked or home-canned items .
The rules limited which foods could be sold , such as canned items that are low in acid .
Five North Dakota plaintiffs sued @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules should be overturned because they conflict with a 2017 law that expanded cottage food sales .
Health officials wanted the lawsuit dismissed .
Department spokeswoman Nicole Peske told the Bismarck Tribune that the state is exploring its options on next steps .
“ We ’ re disappointed in the outcome of the cottage food rules court case , but we respect the court ’ s decision .
Our priority remains the same as it has always been , to protect the health and safety of North Dakotans , ” she said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Smith , who represented the plaintiffs , said : “ This victory means that more North Dakotans will be able to support their families and their farms by selling homemade foods.
” She said it also means there will be more options to buy fresh , local food .

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A North Dakota judge ruled the state’s Department of Health overstepped its authority when it made rules that restricted homemade foods that can be offered for sale.
Thursday’s ruling by South Central District Judge Cynthia Feland invalidates the rules that went into effect nearly a year ago on so-called “cottage foods,” which are generally homemade, home-baked or home-canned items. The rules limited which foods could be sold, such as canned items that are low in acid.
Five North Dakota plaintiffs sued the state in March, arguing the rules should be overturned because they conflict with a 2017 law that expanded cottage food sales.
Health officials wanted the lawsuit dismissed. Department spokeswoman Nicole Peske told the Bismarck Tribune that the state is exploring its options on next steps.
“We’re disappointed in the outcome of the cottage food rules court case, but we respect the court’s decision. Our priority remains the same as it has always been, to protect the health and safety of North Dakotans,” she said.
Institute for Justice senior attorney, Erica Smith, who represented the plaintiffs, said: “This victory means that more North Dakotans will be able to support their families and their farms by selling homemade foods.” She said it also means there will be more options to buy fresh, local food.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Man shot by U.S. Marshals released from hospital, jailed

PORTLAND , Ore. ( AP ) - A man U.S .
Marshals shot during an arrest has been released from @ @ @ @ @ the Multnomah County Jail .
Jonathan Crowley was wanted by the Oregon Department of Corrections @ @ @ @ @ against a person , ” The Oregonian/OregonLive reported .
Police say Crowley had also fled @ @ @ @ @ Multnomah County Parole and Probation office , and had a warrant for his arrest issued @ @ @ @ @ .
Marshals Service said on Tuesday afternoon a deputy marshal fired a single shot through @ @ @ @ @ Crowley was driving in Portland .
The agency said officers found Crowley in a parked @ @ @ @ @ peacefully arrest him and that Crowley had “ used his vehicle to threaten law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ shot .
Federal officials did not name the officer who shot Crowley .
The Marshals @ @ @ @ @ Crowley ’ s injuries , but said he is expected to recover .
It wasn @ @ @ @ @ Crowley has an attorney to comment for him .

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - A man U.S. Marshals shot during an arrest has been released from a hospital and booked in the Multnomah County Jail.
Jonathan Crowley was wanted by the Oregon Department of Corrections on charges of “crimes against a person,” The Oregonian/OregonLive reported. Police say Crowley had also fled from correctional supervision with the Multnomah County Parole and Probation office, and had a warrant for his arrest issued in September.
The U.S. Marshals Service said on Tuesday afternoon a deputy marshal fired a single shot through the windshield of a car Crowley was driving in Portland. The agency said officers found Crowley in a parked car and had tried to peacefully arrest him and that Crowley had “used his vehicle to threaten law enforcement officers” before he was shot.
Federal officials did not name the officer who shot Crowley.
The Marshals Service was not specific about Crowley’s injuries, but said he is expected to recover. It wasn’t immediately known if Crowley has an attorney to comment for him.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Woman who claimed boy disappeared at mall in '94 dies

LIVONIA , Mich. ( AP ) - A funeral is planned for Saturday for a woman who claimed her 4-year-old son disappeared at a suburban Detroit shopping mall in 1994 .
Dwanna Wiggins eventually moved to Durham , North Carolina , where she died Monday , according to Burthey Funeral Services .
Wiggins told police that D ’ Wan Sims disappeared while they were shopping at Wonderland Mall in Livonia , two weeks before Christmas in 1994 .
Surveillance video showed the Detroit woman inside the mall but not her son , police said .
Hundreds of tips poured in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the investigation .
Dogs , horses and all-terrain vehicles were used to search for D ’ Wan , who wasn ’ t found .
“ I can tell you that not one person who worked on that investigation believed her story , ” former Livonia police Chief Robert Stevenson told The Detroit News .
A man stepped forward a year ago to say he ’ s Sims .
He provided a DNA sample , which still is being analyzed at a lab at the University of North Texas , said police Capt .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ The case is open and we ’ ll continue to investigate , ” Taig said .
Wiggins told The Associated Press in 2019 that she had contact over social media with the man who claims to be her son .
“ I have no clue whatsoever , ” Wiggins said .
“ You would like to be hopeful .
”

LIVONIA, Mich. (AP) - A funeral is planned for Saturday for a woman who claimed her 4-year-old son disappeared at a suburban Detroit shopping mall in 1994.
Dwanna Wiggins eventually moved to Durham, North Carolina, where she died Monday, according to Burthey Funeral Services.
Wiggins told police that D’Wan Sims disappeared while they were shopping at Wonderland Mall in Livonia, two weeks before Christmas in 1994. Surveillance video showed the Detroit woman inside the mall but not her son, police said.
Hundreds of tips poured in as state police and the FBI joined the investigation. Dogs, horses and all-terrain vehicles were used to search for D’Wan, who wasn’t found.
“I can tell you that not one person who worked on that investigation believed her story,” former Livonia police Chief Robert Stevenson told The Detroit News.
A man stepped forward a year ago to say he’s Sims. He provided a DNA sample, which still is being analyzed at a lab at the University of North Texas, said police Capt. Ronald Taig, who attributed the delay to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The case is open and we’ll continue to investigate,” Taig said.
Wiggins told The Associated Press in 2019 that she had contact over social media with the man who claims to be her son.
“I have no clue whatsoever,” Wiggins said. “You would like to be hopeful.”


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--As he rails on election, Trump largely mum on toll of virus

WASHINGTON ( AP ) - President Donald Trump has been highlighting lots of really big numbers this week : New highs for the stock market .
The 100-plus House members backing a lawsuit challenging his election loss .
The nearly 75 million people who voted for him .
All the while , he ’ s looked past other staggering and more consequential figures : The record numbers of coronavirus deaths , hospitalizations and new cases among the citizens of the nation he leads .
On Friday , Trump ’ s team blasted out a text with this strong , high-minded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bend .
We will not break .
We will never give in .
We will never give up.
” But it was not a rallying cry to help shore up Americans sagging under the toll of a pandemic that on Wednesday alone killed more Americans than on D-Day or 9/11 .
It was part of a fundraising pitch tied to Senate races in Georgia and to Trump ’ s unsupported claims that Democrats are trying to “ steal ” the presidential election he lost .
Of Trump ’ s tweets over the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the election and just 7 percent on the virus - almost all of those related to forthcoming vaccines - according to Factba.se , a data analytics company .
Nearly a third of the president ’ s tweets on the election were flagged by Twitter for misinformation .
As he talks and tweets at length about the election he is futilely trying to subvert , the president is leaving Americans without a central figure to help them deal with their grief over loved-ones ’ deaths and the day-to-day danger of the pandemic that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ focus totally on the shiny object coming soon - the prospect of a vaccine .
Calvin Jillson , a presidential historian at Southern Methodist University , said Trump has proven himself unable or unwilling to muster the “ normal and natural , falling-off-a-log simple presidential approach ” that is called for in any moment of national grief or crisis .
“ He simply doesn ’ t seem to have the emotional depth , the emotional reserves to feel what ’ s happening in the country and to respond to it in the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who ’ ve been fairly emotionally crippled — would do , ” Jillson said .
Trump did convene a summit this week to highlight his administration ’ s successful efforts to help hasten the development of coronavirus vaccines and prepare for their speedy distribution .
And he spent part of Friday pressing federal authorities to authorize use of the first-up vaccine candidate from Pfizer .
At his summit , the president put heavy emphasis on the faster-than-expected development of the vaccines , calling it “ an incredible success , ” “ a monumental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” and “ somewhat of a miracle.
” He ’ s also claimed credit , though Pfizer developed its vaccine outside the administration ’ s “ Operation Warp Speed.
” In a passing nod to the pandemic ’ s toll , Trump promised the coming vaccines would “ quickly and dramatically reduce deaths and hospitalizations , ” adding that “ we want to get back to normal.
” But it will be months before most Americans have access to a vaccine .
Asked what message he had for Americans suffering great hardship as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets worse , Trump ’ s answer had an almost clinical tone .
“ Yeah , well , CDC puts out their guidelines , and they ’ re very important guidelines , ” he said , “ but I think this : I think that the vaccine was our goal.
” To focus otherwise would undercut Trump ’ s goal of minimizing the national pain of the virus ’ toll and his claims that the danger will soon vanish .
Trump ’ s successor , Joe Biden , on Friday answered that approach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of the virus , he said : “ We can wish this away , but we need to face it.
” Jeff Shesol , a presidential historian and former speechwriter for President Bill Clinton , said Trump ’ s failure to express empathy was a “ personal pathology manifesting itself as political strategy.
” “ It ’ s not simply that he has decided not to express concern or sorrow , it ’ s that he does not feel the sorrow , ” Shesol said .
Ari Fleischer , who served as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ W. Bush , said Trump has approached the virus in a “ very mechanical , focus-on-the-vaccine kind of way ” when people are also hungering for an emotional connection .
That ’ s hurt Trump politically , but it ’ s true to his persona , Fleischer added .
“ The president is a blunt force more than he ’ s an empathetic force , ” Fleischer said .
“ To his credit , he doesn ’ t pretend .
He is who he is .
Most politicians would fake it.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ request for comment for this story .
It ’ s not just Trump who is fazed by how best to acknowledge the toll of the virus .
The issue led to an unusually personal argument on the air Thursday at Fox News Channel , the favorite network for many of Trump ’ s supporters .
Marie Harf , a commentator on the midday show “ Outnumbered , ” noted that 43 minutes into the show the previous day ’ s record-setting number of COVID deaths hadn ’ t been mentioned .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that is unfolding every day in this country , in large part because people want to go about like normal and they don ’ t want to wear masks , ” she said .
The show ’ s host , Harris Faulkner , called Harf ’ s remark offensive .
“ Keep your judgment someplace where you know you can fact-check it , because you can ’ t see my heart.
” Late-night TV hosts , too , took note of the scant acknowledgement of the unfolding tragedy .
In a lengthy monologue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” host Seth Meyers faulted Trump and Republicans for continuing to focus on trying to overturn the long-settled election “ as thousands of Americans die every day from a pandemic they clearly don ’ t care about.
” Associated Press writer David Bauder in New York and data journalist Nicky Forster contributed to this report .

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump has been highlighting lots of really big numbers this week: New highs for the stock market. The 100-plus House members backing a lawsuit challenging his election loss. The nearly 75 million people who voted for him.
All the while, he’s looked past other staggering and more consequential figures: The record numbers of coronavirus deaths, hospitalizations and new cases among the citizens of the nation he leads.
On Friday, Trump’s team blasted out a text with this strong, high-minded presidential message: “We will not bend. We will not break. We will never give in. We will never give up.”
But it was not a rallying cry to help shore up Americans sagging under the toll of a pandemic that on Wednesday alone killed more Americans than on D-Day or 9/11. It was part of a fundraising pitch tied to Senate races in Georgia and to Trump’s unsupported claims that Democrats are trying to “steal” the presidential election he lost.
Of Trump’s tweets over the past week, 82 percent have been focused on the election and just 7 percent on the virus - almost all of those related to forthcoming vaccines - according to Factba.se, a data analytics company. Nearly a third of the president’s tweets on the election were flagged by Twitter for misinformation.
As he talks and tweets at length about the election he is futilely trying to subvert, the president is leaving Americans without a central figure to help them deal with their grief over loved-ones’ deaths and the day-to-day danger of the pandemic that still rages. His strategy is to focus totally on the shiny object coming soon - the prospect of a vaccine.
Friday night, the the Food and Drug Administration gave the final go-ahead to a vaccine from Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech, launching emergency vaccinations in a bid to end the pandemic. But Trump’s three-minute internet address hailing the vaccine made no mention of the toll the virus has taken.
Calvin Jillson, a presidential historian at Southern Methodist University, said Trump has proven himself unable or unwilling to muster the “normal and natural, falling-off-a-log simple presidential approach” that is called for in any moment of national grief or crisis.
“He simply doesn’t seem to have the emotional depth, the emotional reserves to feel what’s happening in the country and to respond to it in the way that any other president — even those who’ve been fairly emotionally crippled — would do,” Jillson said.
Trump did convene a summit this week to highlight his administration’s successful efforts to help hasten the development of coronavirus vaccines and prepare for their speedy distribution. And he spent part of Friday pressing federal authorities to authorize use of the first-up vaccine candidate from Pfizer.
At his summit, the president put heavy emphasis on the faster-than-expected development of the vaccines, calling it “an incredible success,” “a monumental national achievement,” “really amazing” and “somewhat of a miracle.” He’s also claimed credit, though Pfizer developed its vaccine outside the administration’s “Operation Warp Speed.”
In a passing nod to the pandemic’s toll, Trump promised the coming vaccines would “quickly and dramatically reduce deaths and hospitalizations,” adding that “we want to get back to normal.” But it will be months before most Americans have access to a vaccine.
Asked what message he had for Americans suffering great hardship as the holidays approach and the virus only gets worse, Trump’s answer had an almost clinical tone.
“Yeah, well, CDC puts out their guidelines, and they’re very important guidelines,” he said, “but I think this: I think that the vaccine was our goal.”
To focus otherwise would undercut Trump’s goal of minimizing the national pain of the virus’ toll and his claims that the danger will soon vanish.
Trump’s successor, Joe Biden, on Friday answered that approach with a promise for greater presidential leadership. Of the virus, he said: “We can wish this away, but we need to face it.”
Jeff Shesol, a presidential historian and former speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, said Trump’s failure to express empathy was a “personal pathology manifesting itself as political strategy.”
“It’s not simply that he has decided not to express concern or sorrow, it’s that he does not feel the sorrow,” Shesol said.
Ari Fleischer, who served as White House press secretary to President George W. Bush, said Trump has approached the virus in a “very mechanical, focus-on-the-vaccine kind of way” when people are also hungering for an emotional connection. That’s hurt Trump politically, but it’s true to his persona, Fleischer added.
“The president is a blunt force more than he’s an empathetic force,” Fleischer said. “To his credit, he doesn’t pretend. He is who he is. Most politicians would fake it.”
The White House did not respond to a request for comment for this story.
It’s not just Trump who is fazed by how best to acknowledge the toll of the virus.
The issue led to an unusually personal argument on the air Thursday at Fox News Channel, the favorite network for many of Trump’s supporters. Marie Harf, a commentator on the midday show “Outnumbered,” noted that 43 minutes into the show the previous day’s record-setting number of COVID deaths hadn’t been mentioned.
“We cannot lose sight of the tragedy that is unfolding every day in this country, in large part because people want to go about like normal and they don’t want to wear masks,” she said.
The show’s host, Harris Faulkner, called Harf’s remark offensive. “Keep your judgment someplace where you know you can fact-check it, because you can’t see my heart.”
Late-night TV hosts, too, took note of the scant acknowledgement of the unfolding tragedy.
In a lengthy monologue Thursday night, NBC “Late Night” host Seth Meyers faulted Trump and Republicans for continuing to focus on trying to overturn the long-settled election “as thousands of Americans die every day from a pandemic they clearly don’t care about.”
___
Associated Press writer David Bauder in New York and data journalist Nicky Forster contributed to this report.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Beshear: Indicator of virus spread drops again in Kentucky

FRANKFORT , Ky. ( AP ) - An indicator of the spread of the coronavirus fell again Friday in Kentucky , marking the eighth straight day it has declined in the state , Gov .
Andy Beshear said .
The positivity rate dropped below 9 % to 8.86 % , Beshear said in a news release .
“ These numbers are still high and we are still watching for any increases related to the Thanksgiving holiday , but we are making progress in our fight against this invisible enemy , ” he said .
“ I hope this gives everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to keep doing what we know is right , things like wearing a mask and staying socially distant , because we know they are working.
” The positivity rate is an indicator of the extent of the spread of the virus , according to the World Health Organization .
If the rate is less than 5 % for two weeks and testing is widespread , the virus is considered under control .
New cases reported Friday numbered 3,691 , with 22 deaths .
A total of 2,168 deaths have been reported in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most people , the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks .
But for others , especially older adults and people with existing health problems , the virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal .
The vast majority of people recover .

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - An indicator of the spread of the coronavirus fell again Friday in Kentucky, marking the eighth straight day it has declined in the state, Gov. Andy Beshear said.
The positivity rate dropped below 9% to 8.86%, Beshear said in a news release.
“These numbers are still high and we are still watching for any increases related to the Thanksgiving holiday, but we are making progress in our fight against this invisible enemy,” he said. “I hope this gives everyone the courage and grit to keep going, to keep doing what we know is right, things like wearing a mask and staying socially distant, because we know they are working.”
The positivity rate is an indicator of the extent of the spread of the virus, according to the World Health Organization. If the rate is less than 5% for two weeks and testing is widespread, the virus is considered under control.
New cases reported Friday numbered 3,691, with 22 deaths. A total of 2,168 deaths have been reported in Kentucky since the pandemic began.
For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal. The vast majority of people recover.
___
Follow AP’s pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/virus-outbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., sues Mayor Muriel Bowser over coronavirus rules

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington sued D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on Friday over her new coronavirus order capping churches to a maximum of 50 people for services , arguing she ’ s picking on houses of worship while letting businesses operate at higher capacity .
The archdiocese says Catholic churches have been holding services since June and there hasn ’ t been “ a single cast of COVID-19 attributable to attending mass.
” But with Christmas looming , they ’ re now being forced to turn parishioners away .
Ms. Bowser ’ s latest order limits attendance to 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception , the largest Catholic Church in the U.S. , which could hold thousands of people .
By contrast , restaurants , where people can eat indoors , unmasked , are limited by capacity .
Same with other establishments , the archdiocese said .
“ Indeed , if the archdiocese were to fill its churches with library books , washing machines , exercise bikes , restaurant tables , or shopping stalls instead of pews , the District would allow many more people to enter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , ” the archdiocese said in its complaint It is asking for an injunction in time to hold Christmas Eve masses .
“ Christmas should be a time for reconciliation and joy , and the archdiocese simply wants to welcome its flock home .
It respectfully requests that it be allowed to do so , ” the archdiocese said .
The lawsuit likely has legs , based on recent Supreme Court rulings that have struck down similar numerical caps in other jurisdictions , in favor of limits based on capacity .
Before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ churches holding indoor services were subject to a cap of either 50 % of capacity or 100 people , whichever was lower .
In her new order , the mayor urged churches to move to virtual services — but Catholics say that can not accommodate the need for in-person sacraments such as Holy Communion .
Restaurants have been operating at up to 50 % of capacity , but that will ratchet down to 25 % on Dec. 14 .
In California , several churches protested shutdown orders , arguing that strip clubs were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pastors at the churches performed chaste strip-teases — removing a necktie , for example , while parishioners waved cash at them — to argue they were now strip clubs for God , and thus not subject to the state ’ s limits .
In D.C. , the archdiocese said that if it were to convert the Basilica into a gym , it could host more than 600 people , not the 50 it will now be limited to under Mayor Bowser ’ s church order .

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington sued D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on Friday over her new coronavirus order capping churches to a maximum of 50 people for services, arguing she’s picking on houses of worship while letting businesses operate at higher capacity.
The archdiocese says Catholic churches have been holding services since June and there hasn’t been “a single cast of COVID-19 attributable to attending mass.” But with Christmas looming, they’re now being forced to turn parishioners away.
Ms. Bowser’s latest order limits attendance to 50 people, even for churches such as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Catholic Church in the U.S., which could hold thousands of people.
By contrast, restaurants, where people can eat indoors, unmasked, are limited by capacity. Same with other establishments, the archdiocese said.
“Indeed, if the archdiocese were to fill its churches with library books, washing machines, exercise bikes, restaurant tables, or shopping stalls instead of pews, the District would allow many more people to enter and remain for an unlimited amount of time,” the archdiocese said in its complaint
It is asking for an injunction in time to hold Christmas Eve masses.
“Christmas should be a time for reconciliation and joy, and the archdiocese simply wants to welcome its flock home. It respectfully requests that it be allowed to do so,” the archdiocese said.
The lawsuit likely has legs, based on recent Supreme Court rulings that have struck down similar numerical caps in other jurisdictions, in favor of limits based on capacity.
Before Ms. Bowser’s latest order, churches holding indoor services were subject to a cap of either 50% of capacity or 100 people, whichever was lower.
In her new order, the mayor urged churches to move to virtual services — but Catholics say that cannot accommodate the need for in-person sacraments such as Holy Communion.
Restaurants have been operating at up to 50% of capacity, but that will ratchet down to 25% on Dec. 14.
In California, several churches protested shutdown orders, arguing that strip clubs were given more leeway than houses of worship.
Pastors at the churches performed chaste strip-teases — removing a necktie, for example, while parishioners waved cash at them — to argue they were now strip clubs for God, and thus not subject to the state’s limits.
In D.C., the archdiocese said that if it were to convert the Basilica into a gym, it could host more than 600 people, not the 50 it will now be limited to under Mayor Bowser’s church order.
• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-12-11--2 killed when helicopter crashes into field in West Texas

COLORADO CITY , Texas ( AP ) - Two men were killed when a helicopter crashed in a field in @ @ @ @ @ .
Mitchell County Sheriff Patrick Toombs said Friday night that the helicopter crashed Thursday about @ @ @ @ @ ) southwest of Colorado City , which is about 250 miles west of Dallas .
@ @ @ @ @ Zane Whitesides , 31 , and the passenger , Zack Pfeuffer , 32 , were @ @ @ @ @ Colorado City .
He said he believed they were headed to a ranch to help @ @ @ @ @ Federal Aviation Administration said the helicopter was a Robinson R44 .
The FAA and the @ @ @ @ @ investigate .

COLORADO CITY, Texas (AP) - Two men were killed when a helicopter crashed in a field in West Texas, authorities said.
Mitchell County Sheriff Patrick Toombs said Friday night that the helicopter crashed Thursday about eight miles (13 kilometers) southwest of Colorado City, which is about 250 miles west of Dallas.
Toombs said the pilot, Zane Whitesides, 31, and the passenger, Zack Pfeuffer, 32, were killed. Both were from Colorado City.
He said he believed they were headed to a ranch to help them move cattle.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the helicopter was a Robinson R44. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate.