washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Trump's immigration pause exempts wealthy Chinese investors

President Trump ’ s new 60-day immigration pause will not apply to wealthy investors willing to pay up hundreds of thousands of dollars for the so-called “ Golden Visa ” — a particular favorite pathway for wealthy Chinese to gain a foothold in the U.S. Mr. Trump ’ s proclamation announcing the pause , which he says is intended to help U.S. workers laid off because of the coronavirus-stricken economy compete for jobs , includes a number of exceptions limiting its scope .
Family of U.S. citizens , members of military families , and doctors and nurses will still be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the EB-5 visa , which is awarded to those willing to invest at least $ 900,000 in economic development in the U.S. “ What is the hurry to speed up the admissions in the EB-5 category , where there has been so much scandal and fraud , for so little benefit to American workers ?
” said Jessica Vaughan , policy studies director at the Center for Immigration Studies , which backs stricter immigration limits .
Those on the other side of the immigration debate also questioned the decision to exempt wealthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family companies of Jared Kushner , Mr. Trump ’ s son-in-law , make frequent use of the EB-5 program .
“ The proclamation alters every single preference in the immigration system , some much more than others , with one clear exception — green cards for wealthy investors — a program that appears to benefit the president ’ s son-in-law , Jared Kushner , through his family ’ s company and which has been the subject of SEC investigation , ” said Ur Jaddou , director of DHS Watch and former top lawyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Chinese investors are among the most eager purchasers of EB-5 visas , accounting for most of the ones issued over the last decade , and leaving a massive backlog of others waiting to enter .
Only 10,000 EB-5 visas can be issued each year , though more can be approved to get in the line .
The White House did not provide an on-the-record comment for this article .
EB-5 investors are supposed to prove they are creating jobs with their money .
The program has been rife with fraud , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have called to reform or scrap it .
Attempting to reform the program , the Trump administration has raised the minimum investment from $ 500,000 to $ 900,000 .
Mr. Trump said his immigration pause will give Americans who have lost jobs a better chance at finding work as a recovery gets going .
“ This will ensure that unemployed Americans of all backgrounds will be first in line for jobs , ” the president told reporters minutes after he signed the proclamation Wednesday evening .
But immigration experts said the 60-day pause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overall jobs picture — about 26 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits over the last five weeks .
The Migration Policy Institute calculated that perhaps 26,000 people per month would be denied , or about 52,000 over the 60-day period .
Most of those , however , were already halted because the State Department stopped processing the applications as officers were shifted to new duties amid the coronavirus crisis .
Ms. Vaughan says Mr. Trump ’ s order could actually end up increasing immigration because it could spur the State Department to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as the EB-5 visa and family members of citizens .
“ However well intentioned , this executive order will provide little relief to Americans , ” she wrote in a memo analyzing the president ’ s plans .
From the other side of the debate , immigrant-rights advocates accused Mr. Trump of trying to turn their communities into scapegoats .
“ Legal immigrants are not to blame for the negative economic consequences caused by the COVID-19 crisis , ” said Irene Oria , president of the Hispanic National Bar Association .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an overall positive impact on the economy and on worker wages.
” The HNBA did not respond to a request detailing those wage studies .
The National Academy of Sciences , in a major report in 2016 , concluded that immigration does have a “ very small ” depressive effect on wages , particularly for low-skilled and low-educated workers .
The academy said new immigration didn ’ t have much effect on the employment rate — though it does reduce the employment rate of prior immigrants and reduces the number of hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memo , the Congressional Budget Office concluded that immigrants who share the same skills and abilities as American workers do drive down wages , but for those with complementary skills they can boost productivity and have a positive effect on wages .

President Trump’s new 60-day immigration pause will not apply to wealthy investors willing to pay up hundreds of thousands of dollars for the so-called “Golden Visa” — a particular favorite pathway for wealthy Chinese to gain a foothold in the U.S.
Mr. Trump’s proclamation announcing the pause, which he says is intended to help U.S. workers laid off because of the coronavirus-stricken economy compete for jobs, includes a number of exceptions limiting its scope.
Family of U.S. citizens, members of military families, and doctors and nurses will still be admitted. And so will those applying for the EB-5 visa, which is awarded to those willing to invest at least $900,000 in economic development in the U.S.
“What is the hurry to speed up the admissions in the EB-5 category, where there has been so much scandal and fraud, for so little benefit to American workers?” said Jessica Vaughan, policy studies director at the Center for Immigration Studies, which backs stricter immigration limits.
Those on the other side of the immigration debate also questioned the decision to exempt wealthy investors, with several pointing out the family companies of Jared Kushner, Mr. Trump’s son-in-law, make frequent use of the EB-5 program.
“The proclamation alters every single preference in the immigration system, some much more than others, with one clear exception — green cards for wealthy investors — a program that appears to benefit the president’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, through his family’s company and which has been the subject of SEC investigation,” said Ur Jaddou, director of DHS Watch and former top lawyer at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Chinese investors are among the most eager purchasers of EB-5 visas, accounting for most of the ones issued over the last decade, and leaving a massive backlog of others waiting to enter. Only 10,000 EB-5 visas can be issued each year, though more can be approved to get in the line.
The White House did not provide an on-the-record comment for this article.
EB-5 investors are supposed to prove they are creating jobs with their money. The program has been rife with fraud, and prominent Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill have called to reform or scrap it.
Attempting to reform the program, the Trump administration has raised the minimum investment from $500,000 to $900,000.
Mr. Trump said his immigration pause will give Americans who have lost jobs a better chance at finding work as a recovery gets going.
“This will ensure that unemployed Americans of all backgrounds will be first in line for jobs,” the president told reporters minutes after he signed the proclamation Wednesday evening.
But immigration experts said the 60-day pause will have a slight effect on the overall jobs picture — about 26 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits over the last five weeks.
The Migration Policy Institute calculated that perhaps 26,000 people per month would be denied, or about 52,000 over the 60-day period.
Most of those, however, were already halted because the State Department stopped processing the applications as officers were shifted to new duties amid the coronavirus crisis.
Ms. Vaughan says Mr. Trump’s order could actually end up increasing immigration because it could spur the State Department to once again start processing the exempt categories such as the EB-5 visa and family members of citizens.
“However well intentioned, this executive order will provide little relief to Americans,” she wrote in a memo analyzing the president’s plans.
From the other side of the debate, immigrant-rights advocates accused Mr. Trump of trying to turn their communities into scapegoats.
“Legal immigrants are not to blame for the negative economic consequences caused by the COVID-19 crisis,” said Irene Oria, president of the Hispanic National Bar Association. “Numerous independent studies have shown that immigrants have an overall positive impact on the economy and on worker wages.”
The HNBA did not respond to a request detailing those wage studies.
The National Academy of Sciences, in a major report in 2016, concluded that immigration does have a “very small” depressive effect on wages, particularly for low-skilled and low-educated workers. The academy said new immigration didn’t have much effect on the employment rate — though it does reduce the employment rate of prior immigrants and reduces the number of hours that teens work.
In a January memo, the Congressional Budget Office concluded that immigrants who share the same skills and abilities as American workers do drive down wages, but for those with complementary skills they can boost productivity and have a positive effect on wages.
• Stephen Dinan can be reached at sdinan@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Dolphins decide to gamble on QB Tagovailoa’s durability

MIAMI ( AP ) - The Miami Dolphins decided to gamble on Tua Tagovailoa ’ s durability and made the Alabama quarterback the fifth overall pick in the NFL draft Thursday night .
The Dolphins hope Tagovailoa can become a franchise quarterback and the centerpiece of their rebuilding effort that began a year ago .
They were undeterred by his long injury history , most recently a dislocated and fractured hip that ended his 2019 season in mid-November .
Last month doctors cleared Tagovailoa to run and begin football activities , and his agent has said his client is healthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That would allow Tagovailoa to compete with returning starter Ryan Fitzpatrick , who is 37 and in a caretaker role .
Even before Miami ’ s offseason began , team owner Stephen Ross said the priority was to acquire a franchise quarterback .
To start a draft widely considered the Dolphins ’ most consequential in many years , they took a quarterback with their first pick for only the second time since 1983 .
Tagovailoa threw 76 touchdown passes in 24 starts the past two seasons .
He replaced Jalen Hurts in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and rallied Alabama past Georgia , and the following season he was the Heisman Trophy runner-up .
NFL talent evaluators doubted Tagovailoa only because of his health .
Along with the hip injury , which at one point was feared to be career-threatening , the left-hander has had surgery on both ankles and the index finger of his throwing hand .
The Dolphins stockpiled picks last year while enduring a 5-11 season under first-year coach Brian Flores .
They also had the 18th and 26th picks in the first round , and three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24th in the second round .
That gives them five of the top 56 choices as they try to build a team around Tagovailoa .
They ’ ve already spent $ 235 million to sign 10 free agents .

MIAMI (AP) - Because of Tua Tagovailoa’s ability, the Miami Dolphins were willing to gamble on his durability.
The Dolphins made the Alabama quarterback the fifth overall pick in the NFL draft Thursday, and hope he can become a franchise quarterback and the centerpiece of their rebuilding effort that began a year ago.
Miami was undeterred by his long injury history, most recently a dislocated and fractured hip that ended his 2019 season in mid-November.
“For me and my family, whoever decided to take a chance on us, that’s where I belonged,” Tagovailoa said. “My biggest thing is I’m trying to prove this was the right decision.”
The Dolphins added some potential protection for Tagovailoa with the 18th overall pick, selecting 322-pound tackle Austin Jackson of Southern California. Jackson is only 20 and turned pro after his junior season.
“We’ve got good news for Tua,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said when he announced the selection of Jackson.
Miami also had the 30th overall pick and took Auburn cornerback Noah Igbinoghene, the son of two Nigerian Olympic track athletes.
Doctors cleared Tagovailoa last month to run and begin football activities, and he expects to be able to play in his rookie season.
“What makes me confident in being able to play is what the doctors have told me,” Tagovailoa said. “As far as rehab, as far as the medical rechecks, I’ve checked off all the boxes.”
Dolphins general manager Chris Grier said the team is comfortable with Tagovailoa’s health, despite an injury history that includes at least four surgeries at Alabama.
“Football is a violent game,” Grier said. “Guys are going to get hurt.”
Tagovailoa will compete with returning starter Ryan Fitzpatrick, who is 37 and is expected to serve as an idea mentor to the rookie. At some point, Tagovailoa will become the 22nd quarterback to start for Miami since Dan Marino retired 20 years ago.
They share the same uniform number, which is why Tagovailoa won’t wear his familiar No. 13 in Miami.
“I understand No. 13 is retired, and it should be,” Tagovailoa said. “Whatever number I’m given by the organization, if it’s 78 or 99, I’ll wear it.”
Even before the Dolphins’ offseason began, team owner Stephen Ross said the priority was to acquire a franchise quarterback. To start a draft widely considered the Dolphins’ most consequential in many years, they took a quarterback with their first pick for only the second time since 1983.
Miami stockpiled picks last year while enduring a 5-11 season under first-year coach Brian Flores, and during a historically bad start was accused of tanking for Tua.
The dynamic Tagovailoa immediately raises the profile of a team that has too often been off the NFL radar in the past two decades. He threw 76 touchdown passes in 24 starts the past two seasons.
Tagovailoa replaced Jalen Hurts in the national championship game two years ago and rallied Alabama past Georgia, and the following season he was the Heisman Trophy runner-up.
Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry, an Alabama alum, was among those applauding the selection of Tagovailoa.
“So excited to see what you accomplish and I know good things are in store for you,” Henry wrote in an Instagram message.
NFL talent evaluators doubted Tagovailoa only because of his health. Along with the hip injury, which at one point was feared to be career-threatening, the left-hander has had surgery on both ankles and the index finger of his throwing hand. He also suffered a broken nose and a concussion while at Alabama.
The Dolphins disguised their intentions well until they were on the clock. Leading up to the draft, speculation had them trading up to select an offensive tackle or even quarterback Joe Burrow with the No. 1 pick, or taking Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert instead of Tagovailoa.
“We didn’t know where a lot of this stuff was coming from,” Flores said with a chuckle. “It was very interesting, to say the least. It was something we would talk about on a daily basis - ‘Did you see that? Did you see this?’”
The Dolphins have three selections Friday, including the seventh and 24th in the second round, which gives them five of the top 56 choices as they try to build a team around Tagovailoa. They’ve already spent $235 million to sign 10 free agents.
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washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Trump showcases idea heat, humidity could help fight virus

WASHINGTON ( AP ) - The White House on Thursday pitched “ emerging ” research on the benefits of sunlight and humidity in diminishing the threat of the coronavirus as President Donald Trump encourages states to move to reopen their economies .
Past studies have not found good evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity of spring and summer will help tamp down the spread of the virus .
But William Bryan of the Department of Homeland Security said at a White House briefing that there are “ emerging results ” from new research that suggest solar light has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on surfaces and in the air .
He said scientists have seen a similar effect from higher temperatures and humidity .
A biocontainment lab in Maryland has been conducting testing on the virus since February , Bryan said .
“ The virus is dying at a much more rapid pace just from exposure to higher temperatures and just from exposure to humidity , ” Bryan said .
Bryan said having more knowledge about this could help governors when making decisions about how and when to open their state economies .
However , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light and heat studies do not replace social distancing recommendations .
Trump , who has consistently looked for hopeful news about containing the virus , was asked if it was dangerous to make people think they would be safe by going outside in the heat , considering that so many people have died in Florida .
“ I hope people enjoy the sun .
And if it has an impact , that ’ s great , ” Trump replied , adding , “ It ’ s just a suggestion from a brilliant lab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perhaps brilliant man.
” “ I ’ m here to present ideas , because we want ideas to get rid of this thing .
And if heat is good , and if sunlight is good , that ’ s a great thing as far as I ’ m concerned , ” the president said .
Trump noted that the researchers were also looking at the effects of disinfectants on the virus and wondered aloud if they could be injected into people , saying the virus “ does a tremendous number on the lungs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ check that.
” Bryan said there was no consideration of that .
The president has often talked up prospects for new therapies and offered rosy timelines for the development of a vaccine .
Earlier in the month , scientific advisers told the White House there ’ s no good evidence yet that the heat and humidity of summer will rein in the virus without continued public health measures .
Researchers convened by the National Academies of Sciences , Engineering and Medicine analyzed studies done so far to test virus survival under different laboratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how COVID-19 has spread so far .
“ Given that countries currently in ‘ summer ’ climates , such as Australia and Iran , are experiencing rapid virus spread , a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed , ” the researchers wrote earlier in April in response to questions from the White House Office of Science and Technology .
In addition , the report cited the global lack of immunity to the new virus and concluded , “ if there is an effect of temperature @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be as apparent as with other respiratory viruses for which there is at least some preexisting partial immunity.
” They noted that during 10 previous flu pandemics , regardless of what season they started , all had a peak second wave about six months after the virus first emerged .
In March , Dr. Michael Ryan , the World Health Organization ’ s emergencies chief .
said , “ We have to assume that the virus will continue to have the capacity to spread , and it ’ s a false hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disappear in the summertime like influenza .
”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The parent company of Lysol and another disinfectant warned Friday that its products should not be used as an internal treatment for the coronavirus after President Donald Trump wondered about the prospect during a White House briefing.
Trump noted Thursday that researchers were looking at the effects of disinfectants on the virus and wondered aloud if they could be injected into people, saying the virus “does a tremendous number on the lungs, so it would be interesting to check that.”
That prompted a strong warning from the maker of disinfectants Lysol and Dettol, which said it was issuing a statement to combat “recent speculation.”
“As a global leader in health and hygiene products, we must be clear that under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route),” said the statement from Reckitt Benckiser.
Trump has often talked up prospects for new therapies and offered rosy timelines for the development of a vaccine as he encourages states to move to reopen their economies.
On Thursday, the White House also pitched “emerging” research on the benefits of sunlight and humidity in diminishing the threat of the coronavirus.
Past studies have not found good evidence that the warmer temperatures and higher humidity of spring and summer will help tamp down the spread of the virus.
But William Bryan of the Department of Homeland Security said at a White House briefing Thursday that there are “emerging results” from new research that suggest solar light has a powerful effect in killing the virus on surfaces and in the air. He said scientists have seen a similar effect from higher temperatures and humidity. A biocontainment lab in Maryland has been conducting testing on the virus since February, Bryan said.
“The virus is dying at a much more rapid pace just from exposure to higher temperatures and just from exposure to humidity,” Bryan said.
Trump was asked if it was dangerous to make people think they would be safe by going outside in the heat, considering that so many people have died in Florida.
“I hope people enjoy the sun. And if it has an impact, that’s great,” Trump replied, adding, “It’s just a suggestion from a brilliant lab by a very, very smart, perhaps brilliant man.”
“I’m here to present ideas, because we want ideas to get rid of this thing. And if heat is good, and if sunlight is good, that’s a great thing as far as I’m concerned,” the president said.
Bryan stressed that the emerging results of the light and heat studies do not replace social distancing recommendations.
Earlier in the month, scientific advisers told the White House there’s no good evidence yet that the heat and humidity of summer will rein in the virus without continued public health measures.
Researchers convened by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine analyzed studies done so far to test virus survival under different laboratory conditions as well as tracking where and how COVID-19 has spread so far.
“Given that countries currently in ‘summer’ climates, such as Australia and Iran, are experiencing rapid virus spread, a decrease in cases with increases in humidity and temperature elsewhere should not be assumed,” the researchers wrote earlier in April in response to questions from the White House Office of Science and Technology.
In addition, the report cited the global lack of immunity to the new virus and concluded, “if there is an effect of temperature and humidity on transmission, it may not be as apparent as with other respiratory viruses for which there is at least some preexisting partial immunity.”
They noted that during 10 previous flu pandemics, regardless of what season they started, all had a peak second wave about six months after the virus first emerged.
In March, Dr. Michael Ryan, the World Health Organization’s emergencies chief. said, “We have to assume that the virus will continue to have the capacity to spread, and it’s a false hope to say yes, it will just disappear in the summertime like influenza.”


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Park officials see uptick in offenses due to virus pandemic

EASTHAM , Mass .
( AP ) - An increase in illegal dumping , ATV use and dogs roaming off their leashes was noticed at the Cape Cod National Seashore , officials said .
The National Park Service states the uptick in violations on the shore are a side effect of the coronavirus pandemic , the Cape Cod Times reported Wednesday .
The national park draws at least 3 million visitors a year and officials say that is mostly due to the park remaining relatively untouched and undeveloped .
But Deputy Chief Ranger Ryan Wright says since many people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accordance with statewide stay-at-home orders , there has been an increase in violations .
“ These are traditional problems national parks face , ” Wright said .
“ Parks are remote , no one is looking and there are plenty of areas shielded from public view.
” Recently , construction materials were dumped in Eastham ’ s Doane Rock area , household trash was left at Wellfleet ’ s Great Island and fencing was vandalized in Truro , the National Park Service said in a statement .
The federal agency also cited an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off leash and into shorebird nesting areas .
Wright said these violations could hurt some endangered shorebirds , such as the piping plover and tern .
In response , officials will issue fines as low as $ 80 for trespassing on cordoned-off land and as high as $ 5,000 and six months in jail for dumping hazardous waste .
The Seashore , like many other public parks and places of businesses in the state , has been following guidance from the CDC regarding the coronavirus pandemic and closed all public buildings in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is for people to have the opportunity to get outdoors , ” Seashore Superintendent Brian Carlstrom said .
“ We urge the public to respect their seashore , follow all guidance and regulations , and act responsibly .
”

EASTHAM, Mass. (AP) - An increase in illegal dumping, ATV use and dogs roaming off their leashes was noticed at the Cape Cod National Seashore, officials said.
The National Park Service states the uptick in violations on the shore are a side effect of the coronavirus pandemic, the Cape Cod Times reported Wednesday.
The national park draws at least 3 million visitors a year and officials say that is mostly due to the park remaining relatively untouched and undeveloped.
But Deputy Chief Ranger Ryan Wright says since many people are not working or going to school in accordance with statewide stay-at-home orders, there has been an increase in violations.
“These are traditional problems national parks face,” Wright said. “Parks are remote, no one is looking and there are plenty of areas shielded from public view.”
Recently, construction materials were dumped in Eastham’s Doane Rock area, household trash was left at Wellfleet’s Great Island and fencing was vandalized in Truro, the National Park Service said in a statement.
The federal agency also cited an increase in violations such as pets running off leash and into shorebird nesting areas.
Wright said these violations could hurt some endangered shorebirds, such as the piping plover and tern.
In response, officials will issue fines as low as $80 for trespassing on cordoned-off land and as high as $5,000 and six months in jail for dumping hazardous waste.
The Seashore, like many other public parks and places of businesses in the state, has been following guidance from the CDC regarding the coronavirus pandemic and closed all public buildings in the park.
“We understand how important it is for people to have the opportunity to get outdoors,” Seashore Superintendent Brian Carlstrom said. “We urge the public to respect their seashore, follow all guidance and regulations, and act responsibly.”


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--One constant in this unique NFL draft: Joe Burrow at the top

In this most unique of drafts , filled with technological concerns and even uncertainty when real football might return , there was one constant Thursday night : Joe Burrow .
For months , the national champion quarterback from LSU was linked with the Bengals .
Cincinnati began the draft by sending the name of the Heisman Trophy winner to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in the basement of his home .
This digital/remote/virtual draft - take your choice - was up and running .
No fireworks on the Las Vegas Strip .
No bear hug between Goodell and Burrow ; the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even if his body won ’ t .
The most basic of selection meetings , organized in this manner due to the coronavirus pandemic , has team personnel making picks from their homes .
And players learning their future employers in their homes .
The NFL canceled all draft activities in Las Vegas when the national shutdown of large gatherings began .
The league had gone full-bore into free agency last month and , now , seven rounds of the draft through Saturday .
“ I do believe this draft is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had , ” said Goodell , noting that it is accompanied by a “ Draft-A-Thon ” to benefit six organizations on the front lines battling the pandemic .
“ I just believe that our job is to continue on and operate within whatever guidelines are necessary to keep our personnel safe , whether it ’ s players or coaches or their executives or league personnel .
We need to make sure that we ’ re doing things safely and put public safety No .
1 , but we also need to carry on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ future .
We need to make sure that we ’ re prepared when we come out of this to be in a position to start our season on time and play our season .
That ’ s our role.
” Normalcy , at least among the picks , was the order of the early evening , though .
First came Burrow : In his spectacular senior season , he threw for 60 - yes , 60 - touchdowns with only six interceptions .
The Tigers beat six top 10 teams on their way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jump up to No .
1 overall is crazy to me , ” Burrow said .
“ But it ’ s a dream come true .
I wasn ’ t very good my junior year .
I worked really hard to get better , my guys worked really hard to get better , and we jelled as a team.
” The second overall selection , Ohio State All-America edge rusher Chase Young , also was predictable .
Washington fielded several offers for that spot , but many scouts and personnel executives felt Young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At 6-foot-5 , 264 pounds , Young led the nation with 16 1/2 sacks and forced fumbles with six last season .
The All-American won the prestigious Bednarik and Nagurski awards in 2019 , leading the Buckeyes to the Big Ten title .
He joins a Redskins team that went 3-13 and allowed 435 points .

For all the uniqueness of this NFL draft, including the angst over a potential communications fiasco, things looked and sounded pretty normal Thursday night.
Quarterbacks were in demand. Ohio State(the top three picks played there) and the Southeastern Conference (a record 15 picks) dominated. The Patriots traded out of the first round.
And Commissioner Roger Goodell even got booed, if only digitally.
“I do believe this draft is going to be the most memorable we have ever had,” said Goodell, noting that it is accompanied by a “Draft-A-Thon” to benefit six organizations on the front lines battling the coronavirus pandemic, which is what forced the NFL to cancel all in-person draft events.
The first round wasn’t all that remarkable for the picks. Beginning with Joe Burrow of national champion LSU, three quarterbacks went in the top six. Hardly unusual.
For months, the Heisman Trophy winner from LSU was linked with the Bengals. Cincinnati began the draft by sending his name to Goodell in the basement of his home.
This digital/remote/virtual draft - take your choice - was up and running. With no apparent glitches.
Of course, there were no fireworks on the Las Vegas Strip. No bear hug between Goodell and Burrow; the commissioner said he would miss those, even if his body wouldn’t. This most basic selection show had team personnel making picks from their homes and players sitting on their own couches while learning their future employers.
The NFL canceled all draft activities in Las Vegas when the national shutdown of large gatherings began. The league had gone full-bore into free agency last month and, now, seven rounds of the draft through Saturday.
“I just believe that our job is to continue on and operate within whatever guidelines are necessary to keep our personnel safe, whether it’s players or coaches or their executives or league personnel,” Goodell said. “We need to make sure that we’re doing things safely and put public safety No. 1, but we also need to carry on. We need to move toward the future. We need to make sure that we’re prepared when we come out of this to be in a position to start our season on time and play our season. That’s our role.”
Normalcy, at least among the picks, was the order of the evening, though.
First came Burrow, a transfer from Ohio State in 2018. In his spectacular senior season, he threw for 60 - yes, 60 - touchdowns with only six interceptions. The Tigers beat six top 10 teams on their way to the national title.
“To jump up to No. 1 overall is crazy to me,” Burrow said.
He joins a team that went 2-14 last season and desperately needs a jolt of energy.
“If you go in thinking, ‘Oh, this is the year we’re going to make the playoffs, this year we’re going to win a playoff game,’ it gets too daunting,” Burrow said. “You’ve got to focus on the process.”
Bengals coach Zac Taylor was confident Burrow could turn the franchise around.
“We will never pick at No. 1 again,” Taylor said. “We don’t want to pick in the top 10 again. We’re looking at this as the only time you’re going to get this caliber player to add him to the program, so obviously this is a big deal.”
The second overall selection, Ohio State All-America edge rusher Chase Young, also was predictable. Washington fielded several offers for that spot, but many scouts and personnel executives felt Young was the best player in this crop.
At 6-foot-5, 264 pounds, Young led the nation with 16 1/2 sacks and forced fumbles with six last season. The All-American won the prestigious Bednarik and Nagurski awards in 2019, leading the Buckeyes to the Big Ten title.
He joins a Redskins team that went 3-13 and allowed 435 points.
“I feel like I’m the best player in this draft,” Young said. “What I bring to the table and how I prepare, I definitely believe I’ll make a pretty big impact on the field.”
If not for the NFL’s obsession with finding the latest, greatest quarterback prospect, Young might have been the top overall selection. That QB infatuation led Miami to Tua Tagovailoa and the Los Angeles Chargers to Justin Herbert - no surprises there. But Green Bay took a chance at No. 26 by taking Utah State QB Jordan Love.
Alabama’s Tagovailoa went fifth, followed in the next spot by Oregon’s Herbert. They were preceded by Ohio State’s Jeff Okudah, the highest-rated cornerback, to Detroit, and Georgia tackle Andrew Thomas to the Giants.
Tagovailoa’s health issues didn’t turn off the Dolphins.
The Alabama quarterback went to a team that was accused going into last season of “Tanking for Tua.” Tagovailoa comes off major hip surgery, which made his landing spot one of the first round’s biggest uncertainties.
“For me and my family, whoever decided to take a chance on us, that’s where I belonged,” Tagovailoa said. “My biggest thing is I’m trying to prove this was the right decision.”
One change he’ll need to make in Miami: No. 13 is not available. The Dolphins retired it for Hall of Famer Dan Marino.
“I understand No. 13 is retired, and it should be,” Tagovailoa said. “Whatever number I’m given by the organization, if it’s 78 or 99, I’ll wear it.”
Blessed with a quick release, excellent mid-range accuracy and nimble feet, Tagovailoa threw 76 touchdown passes in 24 starts the past two seasons. He helped the Crimson Tide to the 2017 national title.
Herbert had a strong postseason, including a terrific Senior Bowl week that raised his stock. At 6-foot-6, 236 pounds, he has the size the pros like, and he’s a good athlete. But he also is not as accurate passing as he’ll need to be.
Los Angeles had a burning hole at quarterback after letting go of longtime starter Philip Rivers. Plus, the Chargers plan to move into a new stadium and could use someone to help sell tickets.
“This is a special opportunity. Words can’t describe how excited and thrilled and fired up I am for this,” Herbert said.
It took until the 13th spot before a trade was made: Tompa, oops, Tampa Bay moving up one spot to get tackle Tristan Wirfs of Iowa to help protect new/old QB Tom Brady. The Buccaneers got that pick from NFC champion San Francisco.
Wide receiver is the deepest position in this draft, but it took until the 12th selection for one to go. Alabama’s Henry Ruggs III, perhaps the fastest man in this group (4.27 in the 40), was the first-ever draftee by the Las Vegas Raiders. Coach Jon Gruden loves speed, and he got a burner who scored 24 touchdowns among 98 career receptions.
New England, which will go into a season without Brady for the first time since 1999, sent its 23rd overall spot to the Chargers, adding a second- and third-rounder. The Chargers were eager to bolster their defense with Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray.
The Packers, despite needs at receiver, offensive line and linebacker, traded up from No. 30 to 26th and selected for the future with Love. Aaron Rodgers, of course, sat for a few years in Green Bay behind Brett Favre. Love might do the same behind A-Rod.
LSU had five first-rounders, with LB K’lavon Chasson (No. 20, Jacksonville), WR Justin Jefferson (22, Minnesota), LB Patrick Queen (28, Baltimore) and RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (32, Super Bowl champ Kansas City) joining Burrow.
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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--California cities: Virus could mean $6.7 billion in losses

SACRAMENTO , Calif. ( AP ) - California ’ s 482 cities say they will collectively lose $ 6.7 billion over the next two years because of the coronavirurs pandemic , prompting layoffs and furloughs for public workers and potential cuts to basic services like sanitation , public safety and housing .
But that estimate , compiled by the League of California Cities , assumes the stay-at-home order lifts by June 1 - an unlikely scenario in a state where Gov .
Gavin Newsom and public health officials have said bans on large gatherings and unnecessary travel will likely extend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the longer the stay-at-home orders are in place , the longer businesses are closed , the greater the revenue shortfalls will be , ” said Carolyn Coleman , the league ’ s executive director .
Cities large and small say they are feeling the pain of an abrupt economic halt as most businesses and restaurants have closed and people aren ’ t traveling because of the mandatory stay-at-home order .
In Yountville , a city of nearly 3,000 in California ’ s famed wine country where 74 % of its annual budget comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mayor John Dunbar says a 60 % loss in revenue is expected in the upcoming budget .
In Rancho Cucamonga , a city of about 178,000 people east of Los Angeles , its 289 part time workers were laid off .
In San Jose , the 10th largest city in the country , leaders expect revenues to drop 8.6 % - far larger than the 2.9 % revenue loss during the Great Recession .
And in Grass Valley , a city of less than 13,000 people in the foothills of the Sierra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four employees - and police and fire departments could be next .
“ We are bare bones as it is , ” Grass Valley Councilwoman Jan Arbuckle said .
“ If things continue down this path , we have no other choice other than to start looking at reducing our public safety , which is not what we want to do especially going into our fire season.
” Congress sent $ 5.8 billion to California local governments as part of a $ 2.2 trillion aid package , but most of that money went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ qualified because they had populations greater than 500,000 people : Fresno , Los Angeles , Sacramento , San Diego , San Francisco and San Jose .
But the federal government says cities can ’ t use that money to cover revenue shortfalls and can only use it for coronavirus-related expenses .
“ It was nice to get a $ 92 million check , ” Fresno Mayor Lee Brand said .
“ We have to go forward with our budget with the presumption it is not going to be there.
” Thursday , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Legislature to help cities cover those shortfalls .
Newsom plans to unveil a budget proposal next month after scrapping the $ 222.2 billion spending plan he proposed in January .
For most people , the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms , such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks .
For some , especially older adults and people with existing health problems , it can cause more severe illness and death .
California has more than 39,000 coronavirus cases and more than 1,500 deaths , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested , and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick .
But the virus ’ spread has been far less devastating in California than public health officials had feared .
Wednesday , the state saw declines in the both the number of confirmed and suspected coronavirus hospitalizations for the first time .
With hospitals far from capacity , Newsom announced Wednesday they could resume elective surgeries .
And Thursday , Newsom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help in New York City , the center of the outbreak in the U.S .
Still , Newsom reiterated on Thursday it could be some time before he loosens the state ’ s stay-at-home order .
He said if people were to pack beaches , parks , playgrounds and hiking trails this weekend , then “ I ’ ll be announcing in a week or so these numbers going back up.
” “ I don ’ t think anybody wants to hear that , ” he said .
In a conference call with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also the president of the League of California Cities - said cities are anxious for businesses to reopen .
“ But we are not going to rush that effort , ” he said .
“ We all agree that public health and our public health officers are rightfully driving the timing as we move forward .
”

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - California’s 482 cities say they will collectively lose $6.7 billion over the next two years because of the coronavirus pandemic, prompting layoffs and furloughs for public workers and potential cuts to basic services such as sanitation, public safety and housing.
But that estimate, compiled by the League of California Cities, assumes the stay-at-home order lifts by June 1 - an unlikely scenario in a state where Gov. Gavin Newsom and public health officials have said bans on large gatherings and unnecessary travel will likely extend well into summer.
“Obviously, the longer the stay-at-home orders are in place, the longer businesses are closed, the greater the revenue shortfalls will be,” said Carolyn Coleman, the league’s executive director.
Cities large and small say they are feeling the pain of an abrupt economic halt as most businesses and restaurants have closed and people aren’t traveling because of the mandatory stay-at-home order.
In Yountville, a city of nearly 3,000 in California’s famed wine country where 74% of its annual budget comes from taxes on sales and hotel rooms, Mayor John Dunbar says a 60% loss in revenue is expected in the upcoming budget.
Rancho Cucamonga, a city of about 178,000 people east of Los Angeles, laid off its 289 part time workers. In San Jose, the 10th largest city in the country, leaders expect revenues to drop 8.6% - far larger than the 2.9% revenue loss during the Great Recession.
And in Grass Valley, a city of fewer than 13,000 people in the Sierra Nevada foothills, leaders have laid off four employees - and police and fire departments could be next.
“We are bare bones as it is,” Grass Valley Councilwoman Jan Arbuckle said. “If things continue down this path, we have no other choice other than to start looking at reducing our public safety, which is not what we want to do especially going into our fire season.”
Congress sent $5.8 billion to California local governments as part of a $2.2 trillion aid package, but most of that money went to counties. Only six California cities qualified because they had populations greater than 500,000 people: Fresno, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco and San Jose.
But the federal government says cities can’t use that money to cover revenue shortfalls and can only use it for coronavirus-related expenses.
“It was nice to get a $92 million check,” Fresno Mayor Lee Brand said. “We have to go forward with our budget with the presumption it is not going to be there.”
The League of California Cities asked Newsom and the Legislature on Thursday to help cities cover those shortfalls. Newsom plans to unveil a budget proposal next month after scrapping the $222.2 billion spending plan he proposed in January.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.
California has more than 39,000 coronavirus cases and more than 1,500 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.
But the virus’ spread has been far less devastating in California than public health officials had feared. Wednesday, the state saw declines in the both the number of confirmed and suspected coronavirus hospitalizations for the first time.
With hospitals far from capacity, Newsom announced Wednesday they could resume elective surgeries. And Thursday, Newsom said 16 California-based doctors had volunteered to help in New York City, the center of the outbreak in the U.S.
Still, Newsom reiterated on Thursday it could be some time before he loosens the state’s stay-at-home order. He said if people were to pack beaches, parks, playgrounds and hiking trails this weekend, then “I’ll be announcing in a week or so these numbers going back up.”
“I don’t think anybody wants to hear that,” he said.
In a conference call with reporters on Thursday, Dunbar - who is also the president of the League of California Cities - said cities are anxious for businesses to reopen.
“But we are not going to rush that effort,” he said. “We all agree that public health and our public health officers are rightfully driving the timing as we move forward.”
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Follow AP coverage of the pandemic at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--For Bears, business figures to pick up in 2nd round of draft

Bears general manager Ryan Pace said it ’ s up to management , scouts and coaches to “ maximize the draft picks we have ” and “ capitalize ” on the opportunities to cross more items off Chicago ’ s to-do list .
The work will have to wait a bit longer : The first night of the NFL draft figured to be an uneventful one for the Bears , with no first-round picks for the second year in a row .
They dealt them to Oakland in a blockbuster trade for star pass rusher Khalil Mack prior to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up on Friday .
The Bears have a pair of second-round picks at Nos .
43 and 50 overall and seven picks in all through Saturday .
Clearly , the Bears still have work to do after going 8-8 .
They began last season with Super Bowl hopes only to miss the playoffs for the eighth time in nine years , a major letdown after winning the NFC North at 12-4 in 2018 .
The Bears need more playmakers to complement receiver Allen Robinson and boost an offense that ranked among the league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better blocking to protect quarterbacks Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles after Chicago gave up 45 sacks and ranked near the bottom of the NFL at at 3.7 yards per rushing attempt .
Even the defense - one of the NFL ’ s best the past few years - has holes .
The Bears could use a cornerback and safety to complement Kyle Fuller and Eddie Jackson with Prince Amukamara and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix both gone .
If Pace decides to address the offense with his first two picks , Notre Dame tight end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at No .
43 to go with offseason pickups Jimmy Graham and Demetrius Harris .
If they then go with a receiver at 50 , Penn State ’ s KJ Hamler or TCU ’ s Jalen Reagor might be possibilities .
But if the Bears opt for secondary help with their early picks , the options might include cornerbacks A.J .
Terrell of Clemson , Jaylon Johnson of Utah and Trevon Diggs of Alabama .
So far , it ’ s been a busy offseason for Pace .
The Bears brought in Robert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the edge , signing the former All-Pro pass rusher to a five-year , $ 70 million contract .
They also signed Graham , hoping the veteran can show some of the form that made him a five-time Pro Bowl pick for New Orleans and Seattle after being released by Green Bay .
Pace had a hand in drafting him working in the Saints ’ front office , and the Bears got little production from their tight ends .
But the most notable move was the trade with Jacksonville for Foles .
That created @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his third season after being drafted with the No .
2 pick in 2017 .
The Bears have just two picks in the first 162 and none in the third or fourth rounds Saturday .
Unless they make a trade , they won ’ t go again until their turn comes up in the fifth at No .
163 overall .
They also have two selections each in the sixth ( 196 , 200 ) and seventh ( 226 , 233 ) .

Bears general manager Ryan Pace said it’s up to management, scouts and coaches to “maximize the draft picks we have” and “capitalize” on the opportunities to cross more items off Chicago’s to-do list.
The work will have to wait a bit longer: The first night of the NFL was an uneventful one for the Bears, with no first-round picks for the second year in a row. They dealt them to Oakland in a blockbuster trade for star pass rusher Khalil Mack prior to the 2018 season.
Business will pick up on Friday. The Bears have a pair of second-round selections at Nos. 43 and 50 overall and seven picks in all through Saturday.
Clearly, the Bears still have work to do after going 8-8. They began last season with Super Bowl hopes only to miss the playoffs for the eighth time in nine years, a major letdown after winning the NFC North at 12-4 in 2018.
The Bears need more playmakers to complement receiver Allen Robinson and boost an offense that ranked among the league’s worst. They also need better blocking to protect quarterbacks Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles after Chicago gave up 45 sacks and ranked near the bottom of the NFL at at 3.7 yards per rushing attempt.
Even the defense - one of the NFL’s best the past few years - has holes. The Bears could use a cornerback and safety to complement Kyle Fuller and Eddie Jackson with Prince Amukamara and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix both gone.
If Pace decides to address the offense with his first two picks, Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet would be a good fit at No. 43 to go with offseason pickups Jimmy Graham and Demetrius Harris. If they then go with a receiver at 50, Penn State’s KJ Hamler might be a possibility.
But if the Bears opt for secondary help with their early picks, the options might include cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson of Utah and Trevon Diggs of Alabama.
So far, it’s been a busy offseason for Pace.
The Bears brought in Robert Quinn to take pressure off Mack on the edge, signing the former All-Pro pass rusher to a five-year, $70 million contract. They also signed Graham, hoping the veteran can show some of the form that made him a five-time Pro Bowl pick for New Orleans and Seattle after being released by Green Bay. Pace had a hand in drafting him working in the Saints’ front office, and the Bears got little production from their tight ends.
But the most notable move was the trade with Jacksonville for Foles. That created a competition with Trubisky, who struggled in his third season after being drafted with the No. 2 pick in 2017.
The Bears have just two picks in the first 162 and none in the third or fourth rounds Saturday. Unless they make a trade, they won’t go again until their turn comes up in the fifth at No. 163 overall. They also have two selections each in the sixth (196, 200) and seventh (226, 233).
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More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/NFL and https://twitter.com/AP_NFL


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Human remains identified as missing Palmer woman

ANCHORAGE , Alaska ( AP ) - Alaska State Troopers said human remains found this week have been identified as @ @ @ @ @ had been missing since December .
Audrey Swartzentruber was last seen Dec. 16 walking near @ @ @ @ @ Palmer .
Troopers say she was believed to have been heading to the Anchorage area @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday near the Knik River .
Trooper spokesman Tim DeSpain said troopers were notified by @ @ @ @ @ s office Thursday that the remains had been identified as the missing woman .
The @ @ @ @ @ have not been determined .
DeSpain said the investigation continues .

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) - Alaska State Troopers said human remains found this week have been identified as a 42-year-old Palmer woman who had been missing since December.
Audrey Swartzentruber was last seen Dec. 16 walking near the Knik River Road in Palmer. Troopers say she was believed to have been heading to the Anchorage area.
The remains were found Tuesday near the Knik River. Trooper spokesman Tim DeSpain said troopers were notified by the state medical examiner’s office Thursday that the remains had been identified as the missing woman.
The cause and manner of death have not been determined. DeSpain said the investigation continues.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Little Rock official alleges retaliation over testimony

LITTLE ROCK , Ark .
( AP ) - A Little Rock police official filed a lawsuit claiming that his police chief has been retaliating against him in response to his testimony in an officer-involved shooting last year .
Hayward Finks , an assistant police chief at the Little Rock Police Department , has accused Chief Keith Humphrey of being involved in a “ campaign of retaliation ” against him , the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported Thursday .
In the lawsuit filed Wednesday , Finks alleges that the retaliation stems from him testifying that Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. rushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a white officer who killed a black man suspected of stealing a car .
On Feb. 22 , 2019 , Officer Charles Starks , who ’ s white , fatally shot 30-year-old Bradley Blackshire , who was black , during a confrontation in Little Rock .
Police said Starks was responding to a call after a detective confirmed the car Blackshire was driving was stolen .
Starks was fired for violating protocols but has been reinstated after he appealed .
Finks , 50 , testified before the city ’ s Civil Service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the internal investigation into the shooting was incomplete and “ rushed ” at “ inappropriate ” speed because Scott ’ s pressure .
In the lawsuit filed in Pulaski County Circuit Court , Finks accuses Humphrey of intentionally attempting to make him look bad because of the way police handled a protest by Blackshire supporters , which resulted in 10 arrests and misdemeanor charges that were later dropped .
“ Finks told nothing but the truth regarding the investigation into Officer Starks ’ shooting of Blackshire , ” the lawsuit says .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his leadership in a bad light.
” Finks says in the lawsuit that he believes Scott isn ’ t aware of Humphrey ’ s alleged conduct toward Finks .
In a statement released Wednesday , City Attorney Tom Carpenter said the city is aware of the lawsuit , but that Humphrey and the city didn ’ t receive it .
Neither commented on the lawsuit .

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - A Little Rock police official filed a lawsuit claiming that his police chief has been retaliating against him in response to his testimony in an officer-involved shooting last year.
Hayward Finks, an assistant police chief at the Little Rock Police Department, has accused Chief Keith Humphrey of being involved in a “campaign of retaliation” against him, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported Thursday.
In the lawsuit filed Wednesday, Finks alleges that the retaliation stems from him testifying that Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. rushed an internal investigation into a fatal shooting by a white officer who killed a black man suspected of stealing a car.
On Feb. 22, 2019, Officer Charles Starks, who’s white, fatally shot 30-year-old Bradley Blackshire, who was black, during a confrontation in Little Rock. Police said Starks was responding to a call after a detective confirmed the car Blackshire was driving was stolen. Starks was fired for violating protocols but has been reinstated after he appealed.
Finks, 50, testified before the city’s Civil Service Commission last year that that he believes the internal investigation into the shooting was incomplete and “rushed” at “inappropriate” speed because Scott’s pressure.
In the lawsuit filed in Pulaski County Circuit Court, Finks accuses Humphrey of intentionally attempting to make him look bad because of the way police handled a protest by Blackshire supporters, which resulted in 10 arrests and misdemeanor charges that were later dropped.
“Finks told nothing but the truth regarding the investigation into Officer Starks’ shooting of Blackshire,” the lawsuit says. “This testimony contradicted Chief Humphrey and cast his leadership in a bad light.”
Finks says in the lawsuit that he believes Scott isn’t aware of Humphrey’s alleged conduct toward Finks.
In a statement released Wednesday, City Attorney Tom Carpenter said the city is aware of the lawsuit, but that Humphrey and the city didn’t receive it. Neither commented on the lawsuit.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Gavin Newsom, Donald Trump find common ground amid coronavirus

SACRAMENTO , Calif. — These times were strange enough .
And then California Gov .
Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump started getting along .
The liberal Democrat - the leader in the headquarters of the Resistance - has taken to singing Trump ’ s praises , and he even used the Republican president ’ s campaign slogan Thursday : “ Promise made , promise kept , ” he said , thanking Trump for sending California testing swabs .
He previously called Trump “ thoughtful , ” “ responsive ” and “ collaborative.
” Trump noticed : “ Gavin Newsom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in his own Thursday briefing .
“ They ’ ve done very well in California.
” It ’ s a odd twist for a relationship that had largely been defined by long-distance combat .
But it may prove to be savvy politics as Newsom works to get California ’ s nearly 40 million residents what they need from a president with a history of responding to flattery .
Even a state as economically and politically powerful as California - a “ nation-state , ” at Newsom calls it - needs help from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obviously separated his political preferences from trying to get as much help for California from the federal government in a really terrible situation , ” said Bill Carrick , a longtime Democratic strategist .
But the detente comes less than seven months before the November presidential election , when Democrats are clamoring to take back the White House .
And it comes at the expense of presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden , said Tim Groeling , a professor of communication at the University of California , Los Angeles , who has written a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The person who is hit most by this isn ’ t Newsom , isn ’ t the other governors - it ’ s Biden , ” Groeling said .
“ It ’ s extremely persuasive , it ’ s extremely credible that ( Newsom ‘ s ) saying these things about Trump .
It ’ s damaging to the Biden campaign ’ s attempt to set out a contrary narrative.
” Trump ’ s reelection campaign has already featured Newsom in an ad : “ He said everything that I could ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the short clip from an early March news conference , speaking about their collaboration in dealing with a cruise ship housing infected passengers that docked in California .
Newsom hasn ’ t blindly followed the White House .
He has put the state ’ s economic and political heft to work by purchasing massive amounts of personal protective gear as the federal government ran out of supplies .
He donated 500 of California ’ s ventilators to other states in need .
He ’ s entered into a pact with other Western @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopen the economy , and he named a roughly 90-member task force on reopening the economy with members like former Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen and Apple chief Tim Cook that looked like a more liberal version of Trump ‘ s .
It ’ s all helped him win praise for his response .
California hasn ’ t seen the surge in deaths that other states like New York have faced , and its rate of hospitalizations and infections is flattening .
Still , he ’ s expecting the Federal Emergency Management Agency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s expenses back .
When Trump signed a major disaster declaration for California in March , it ensured the state could get reimbursed up to 75 % for most of its coronavirus expenses - including its contract for hundreds of millions of masks and the cost of renting hotel rooms for health care workers and homeless individuals .
“ I don ’ t think anyone could ever accuse him of being a wilting flower in the face of Donald Trump , ” said Brian Brokaw , a longtime political adviser to Newsom who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response .
“ At the same time , he ’ s the governor of California , he ’ s not the governor of blue California .
… He ’ s not going to inject partisan politics into an emergency response.
” Plenty of Newsom ’ s counterparts have opted to take a tougher tact .
Washington Gov .
Jay Inslee recently accused Trump of “ fomenting domestic rebellion and spreading lies.
” Gov .
Andrew Cuomo of New York , another Democratic stronghold , said last week that trusting the Trump administration to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wouldn ’ t make twice .
Cuomo and other Democratic governors like Kansas Gov .
Laura Kelly sharply criticized the White House for putting most of the testing burden on states as they consider when to ease restrictions on business and movement .
Newsom sent a different message : He praised Trump for his “ focus ” and “ appreciation ” on the need for more testing .
Now , 90,000 swabs are on their way to California .
When 2020 began , Newsom appeared prepared for another year of robust jousting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tweeted out a cartoon video depicting himself in a go-kart race with Trump .
“ Our country is looking to California , and we ’ ll continue leading the way .
Resistance , with results , ” Newsom says before he wins the go-kart race .
It was the type of video that sparked speculation about Newsom ’ s presidential ambitions - conjecture that has followed him since his days as San Francisco mayor .
While he ’ s taking a different approach now , it could still help him in a White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly among voters who reward bipartisan cooperation .
For his part , Newsom says politics are the last thing on his mind .
He even punted last week when asked by a reporter if and when he planned to endorse Biden .
“ You just reminded me of politics , ” he demurred .
“ I certainly look forward to , ” he added , before quickly moving on .

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — These times were strange enough. And then California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump started getting along.
The liberal Democrat - the leader in the headquarters of the Resistance - has taken to singing Trump’s praises, and he even used the Republican president’s campaign slogan Thursday: “Promise made, promise kept,” he said, thanking Trump for sending California testing swabs. He previously called Trump “thoughtful,” “responsive” and “collaborative.”
Trump noticed: “Gavin Newsom was very nice today,” he said in his own Thursday briefing. “They’ve done very well in California.”
It’s a odd twist for a relationship that had largely been defined by long-distance combat. But it may prove to be savvy politics as Newsom works to get California’s nearly 40 million residents what they need from a president with a history of responding to flattery. Even a state as economically and politically powerful as California - a “nation-state,” at Newsom calls it - needs help from the federal government.
“Gavin has obviously separated his political preferences from trying to get as much help for California from the federal government in a really terrible situation,” said Bill Carrick, a longtime Democratic strategist.
But the detente comes less than seven months before the November presidential election, when Democrats are clamoring to take back the White House. And it comes at the expense of presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden, said Tim Groeling, a professor of communication at the University of California, Los Angeles, who has written a book on partisan divides and alliances.
“The person who is hit most by this isn’t Newsom, isn’t the other governors - it’s Biden,” Groeling said. “It’s extremely persuasive, it’s extremely credible that (Newsom’s) saying these things about Trump. It’s damaging to the Biden campaign’s attempt to set out a contrary narrative.”
Trump’s reelection campaign has already featured Newsom in an ad: “He said everything that I could’ve hoped for,” Newsom says in the short clip from an early March news conference, speaking about their collaboration in dealing with a cruise ship housing infected passengers that docked in California.
Newsom hasn’t blindly followed the White House. He has put the state’s economic and political heft to work by purchasing massive amounts of personal protective gear as the federal government ran out of supplies. He donated 500 of California’s ventilators to other states in need. He’s entered into a pact with other Western governors that spells out how they will reopen the economy, and he named a roughly 90-member task force on reopening the economy with members like former Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen and Apple chief Tim Cook that looked like a more liberal version of Trump’s.
It’s all helped him win praise for his response. California hasn’t seen the surge in deaths that other states like New York have faced, and its rate of hospitalizations and infections is flattening.
Still, he’s expecting the Federal Emergency Management Agency to pay most of the state’s expenses back. When Trump signed a major disaster declaration for California in March, it ensured the state could get reimbursed up to 75% for most of its coronavirus expenses - including its contract for hundreds of millions of masks and the cost of renting hotel rooms for health care workers and homeless individuals.
“I don’t think anyone could ever accuse him of being a wilting flower in the face of Donald Trump,” said Brian Brokaw, a longtime political adviser to Newsom who is not involved in the day-to-day coronavirus response. “At the same time, he’s the governor of California, he’s not the governor of blue California. … He’s not going to inject partisan politics into an emergency response.”
Plenty of Newsom’s counterparts have opted to take a tougher tact. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee recently accused Trump of “fomenting domestic rebellion and spreading lies.” Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York, another Democratic stronghold, said last week that trusting the Trump administration to provide reliable information was a mistake he wouldn’t make twice.
Cuomo and other Democratic governors like Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly sharply criticized the White House for putting most of the testing burden on states as they consider when to ease restrictions on business and movement.
Newsom sent a different message: He praised Trump for his “focus” and “appreciation” on the need for more testing. Now, 90,000 swabs are on their way to California.
When 2020 began, Newsom appeared prepared for another year of robust jousting with the administration. Last December, he tweeted out a cartoon video depicting himself in a go-kart race with Trump.
“Our country is looking to California, and we’ll continue leading the way. Resistance, with results,” Newsom says before he wins the go-kart race.
It was the type of video that sparked speculation about Newsom’s presidential ambitions - conjecture that has followed him since his days as San Francisco mayor. While he’s taking a different approach now, it could still help him in a White House run later, Groeling said, particularly among voters who reward bipartisan cooperation.
For his part, Newsom says politics are the last thing on his mind. He even punted last week when asked by a reporter if and when he planned to endorse Biden.
“You just reminded me of politics,” he demurred. “I certainly look forward to,” he added, before quickly moving on.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Padres player-turned-cop wounded in 2003 shooting dies at 53

SAN DIEGO ( AP ) - Dan Walters , a former San Diego Padres catcher-turned-police officer who was paralyzed in a 2003 shooting , died Thursday , the police union said .
He was 53 .
His death was announced by the San Diego Police Officers Association , which didn ’ t provide the cause of his death or other details .
Walters was drafted by the Houston Astros in 1984 , played in the minor leagues for five seasons , then played for the San Diego Padres in the 1992 and 1993 seasons before a spinal injury ended his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he had 64 hits in 273 at-bats , with a .234 batting average .
Walters became a San Diego policeman in 1998 .
In 2003 , he was shot in the neck and then struck by a passing car during a confrontation with a domestic violence suspect who had opened fire on another officer .
The gunman was shot and killed by his partner .
“ I heard a bang , and I ’ m falling to the ground , looking up at this guy , thinking , ‘ Oh , God !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m dead , ’ ” Walters told a columnist for the San Diego Union-Tribune in 2013 .
Walters was paralyzed from the neck down except for some movement in his left hand .
“ I certainly don ’ t regret being at the scene that night , ” he said .
“ Perhaps people were saved because I happened to be there.
” Walters wasn ’ t married and had no children .
The San Diego Police Department said it had lost “ another hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hear of Walters ’ death , the team tweeted .

SAN DIEGO (AP) - Dan Walters, a former San Diego Padres catcher-turned-police officer who was paralyzed in a 2003 shooting, died Thursday, the police union said. He was 53.
His death was announced by the San Diego Police Officers Association, which didn’t provide the cause of his death or other details.
Walters was drafted by the Houston Astros in 1984, played in the minor leagues for five seasons, then played for the San Diego Padres in the 1992 and 1993 seasons before a spinal injury ended his career. In 84 career games, he had 64 hits in 273 at-bats, with a .234 batting average.
Walters became a San Diego policeman in 1998. In 2003, he was shot in the neck and then struck by a passing car during a confrontation with a domestic violence suspect who had opened fire on another officer. The gunman was shot and killed by his partner.
“I heard a bang, and I’m falling to the ground, looking up at this guy, thinking, ‘Oh, God! I can’t believe it: I’m dead,’ ” Walters told a columnist for the San Diego Union-Tribune in 2013.
Walters was paralyzed from the neck down except for some movement in his left hand.
“I certainly don’t regret being at the scene that night,” he said. “Perhaps people were saved because I happened to be there.”
Walters wasn’t married and had no children.
The San Diego Police Department said it had lost “another hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.”
The Padres are “deeply saddened” to hear of Walters’ death, the team tweeted.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Ex-University of Illinois officer faces sex assault charges

URBANA , Ill. ( AP ) - A former University of Illinois police officer has been charged with sexual assault , sexual abuse and intimidation for alleged attacks on four women in incidents that date back to June 2012 , Champaign County authorities said Thursday .
Jerald E. Sandage , 48 , of LeRoy was arraigned on sexual assault , sexual abuse and intimidation in Champaign County Circuit Court .
The charges are the latest filed against Sandage .
He was charged in December with official misconduct for allegedly using police resources to look up personal information on women , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The charges filed Wednesday are the culmination of an investigation that began in the fall of 2018 , when one of the alleged victims reported that Sandage had non-consensual sex with her .
Sandage did not enter a plea on the new charges during a court appearance Thursday because of a lack of legal representation .
His attorney in the official misconduct case , to which he has pleaded not guilty and posted bond , is not representing him in the new case .
All the incidents for which Sandage is charged allegedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the University of Illinois Police Department , according to prosecutors .
Illinois ’ interim Police Chief Matt Myrick said Sandage ’ s police authority was revoked during an investigation into his actions , with Sandage resigning in February .
Sandage was arrested Wednesday and is being held in lieu of $ 3 million bond in the Piatt County Jail .
Champaign County State ’ s Attorney Julia Rietz said the criminal-sexual-assault charges are Class 1 felonies carrying potential penalties of between four and 15 years in prison .
If convicted , Sandage would @ @ @ @ @ @

URBANA, Ill. (AP) - A former University of Illinois police officer has been charged with sexual assault, sexual abuse and intimidation for alleged attacks on four women in incidents that date back to June 2012, Champaign County authorities said Thursday.
Jerald E. Sandage, 48, of LeRoy was arraigned on sexual assault, sexual abuse and intimidation in Champaign County Circuit Court. The charges are the latest filed against Sandage. He was charged in December with official misconduct for allegedly using police resources to look up personal information on women, while both on and off duty.
The charges filed Wednesday are the culmination of an investigation that began in the fall of 2018, when one of the alleged victims reported that Sandage had non-consensual sex with her.
Sandage did not enter a plea on the new charges during a court appearance Thursday because of a lack of legal representation. His attorney in the official misconduct case, to which he has pleaded not guilty and posted bond, is not representing him in the new case.
All the incidents for which Sandage is charged allegedly occurred while he was a member of the University of Illinois Police Department, according to prosecutors. Illinois’ interim Police Chief Matt Myrick said Sandage’s police authority was revoked during an investigation into his actions, with Sandage resigning in February.
Sandage was arrested Wednesday and is being held in lieu of $3 million bond in the Piatt County Jail.
Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz said the criminal-sexual-assault charges are Class 1 felonies carrying potential penalties of between four and 15 years in prison. If convicted, Sandage would have to serve consecutive sentences.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Pope Francis designates Savannah Cathedral as minor basilica

SAVANNAH , Ga. ( AP ) - Pope Francis has issued a decree granting a Catholic cathedral in Georgia the title of Minor Basilica , which highlights the significance and value of the institution , officials said .
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah will officially be named “ The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist , ” news outlets reported .
Cathedral rector The Rev .
J. Gerald Schreck said the Cathedral is the first basilica in the Diocese of Savannah .
The designation was made through the Vatican ’ s Congregation for Divine Worship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
The 143-year-old cathedral was completed in 1896 but was destroyed by fire two years later , The Savannah Morning News reported .
The congregation immediately started to rebuild and the first Mass was held there on Dec. 24 , 1899 .
In 2000 , the Cathedral received $ 11 million from the diocese and rejuvenated it inside and out , including restoring murals dating to 1912 .
Nationwide , there are just 87 churches , including 18 cathedrals , that carry the “ basilica ” designation , news outlets reported .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ institution and the pope .

SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) - Pope Francis has issued a decree granting a Catholic cathedral in Georgia the title of Minor Basilica, which highlights the significance and value of the institution, officials said.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah will officially be named “The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist,” news outlets reported.
Cathedral rector The Rev. J. Gerald Schreck said the Cathedral is the first basilica in the Diocese of Savannah. The designation was made through the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments on Wednesday.
The 143-year-old cathedral was completed in 1896 but was destroyed by fire two years later, The Savannah Morning News reported.
The congregation immediately started to rebuild and the first Mass was held there on Dec. 24, 1899.
In 2000, the Cathedral received $11 million from the diocese and rejuvenated it inside and out, including restoring murals dating to 1912.
Nationwide, there are just 87 churches, including 18 cathedrals, that carry the “basilica” designation, news outlets reported. The title represents a bond between the institution and the pope.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--'Parks and Recreation' cast reunites for fundraising special

LOS ANGELES ( AP ) - The original cast members of “ Parks and Recreation ” are getting back to work for a coronavirus-related fundraising special .
Amy Poehler , Rashida Jones , Aziz Ansari , Nick Offerman and Adam Scott are among the sitcom ’ s stars to be featured in the half-hour special airing 8:30 p.m. EDT Thursday , April 30 , on NBC .
The story reflects the real-life crisis , with Poehler ’ s Leslie Knope striving to stay in touch with her friends while observing social distancing .
“ Like a lot of other people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help and felt that bringing these characters back for a night could raise some money , ” said executive producer Michael Schur .
“ I sent a hopeful email to the cast and they all got back to me within 45 minutes.
” Schur said he hopes everyone enjoys the special and , as he said in a statement , “ donates !
” Contributions will go to Feeding America ’ s COVID-19 Response Fund , which is helping food banks serve vulnerable community members , NBC said .
Up to $ 500,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be matched with contributions from NBC Universal , the sitcom ’ s cast , writers and producers , and State Farm and Subaru of America .
“ Parks and Recreation , ” about an Indiana ’ s town idiosyncratic public officials , ended its seven-season run in 2015 .
Other cast members taking part in the special include Aubrey Plaza , Chris Pratt , Rob Lowe , Jim O ’ Heir and Retta .
Guests from the sitcom ’ s “ Pawnee universe may pop in , ” NBC said .

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The original cast members of “Parks and Recreation” are getting back to work for a coronavirus-related fundraising special.
Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman and Adam Scott are among the sitcom’s stars to be featured in the half-hour special airing 8:30 p.m. EDT Thursday, April 30, on NBC.
The story reflects the real-life crisis, with Poehler’s Leslie Knope striving to stay in touch with her friends while observing social distancing.
“Like a lot of other people, we were looking for ways to help and felt that bringing these characters back for a night could raise some money,” said executive producer Michael Schur. “I sent a hopeful email to the cast and they all got back to me within 45 minutes.”
Schur said he hopes everyone enjoys the special and, as he said in a statement, “donates!”
Contributions will go to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund, which is helping food banks serve vulnerable community members, NBC said. Up to $500,000 in donations made through May 21 will be matched with contributions from NBC Universal, the sitcom’s cast, writers and producers, and State Farm and Subaru of America.
“Parks and Recreation,” about an Indiana’s town idiosyncratic public officials, ended its seven-season run in 2015.
Other cast members taking part in the special include Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt, Rob Lowe, Jim O’Heir and Retta. Guests from the sitcom’s “Pawnee universe may pop in,” NBC said.
___
Online: http://www.feedingamerica.org/parksandrec


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Juan Guaido, Venezuelan opposition leader, denies talks, accuses Nicolas Maduro regime of bad faith

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido , whom the U.S. and many in the region consider the country ’ s rightful leader , shot down reports Thursday he and his aides were negotiating with the regime of socialist President Nicolas Maduro on a power-sharing deal that could lead to new elections .
With the strong backing of the Trump administration , Mr. Guaido has been locked in a deepening political stalemate with Mr. Maduro , even as the country faces a humanitarian and economic crisis compounded now by fears of a looming coronavirus pandemic .
The U.S. recently floated its own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Caracas — immediately rejected by Mr. Maduro — and new reports this week surfaced that representatives of the government and the opposition had begun secret “ exploratory talks ” on a new political settlement .
But Mr. Guaido , the leader of the opposition in Venezuela ’ s national parliament firmly denied that in a Washington teleconference Thursday .
“ No , there are no negotiations or remediations whatsoever , ” Mr. Guaido said via translator during a virtual conversation hosted by the Atlantic Council .
“ Right now the dictator is using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the wrong way.
” The Reuters news agency , citing what it said were several sources familiar with the discussions , said the closed-door talks were born out of the increasing urgency of the coronavirus threat , coupled with increasing fuel shortages and crippling U.S. sanctions on the Maduro government and the Venezuelan oil sector .
Mr. Guaido ’ s claim to be the country ’ s “ interim president ” — based on what he says was Mr. Maduro ’ s fraud-ridden reelection win in 2018 — has been recognized by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But the stubborn Mr. Maduro has so far successfully resisted an intense Trump administration campaign to drive him from power or to entice Venezuela ’ s powerful military to abandon the regime .
In a televised broadcast over the weekend , Mr. Maduro said his government was “ ready for dialogue , to understand one another and reach a humanitarian agreement to attend to the coronavirus [ pandemic ] .
” The government of Norway organized talks between the two camps last year in which Mr. Guaido ’ s supporters pressed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broke down after Mr. Maduro protested against new U.S. sanctions on his government .
But Mr. Guaido ’ s renunciation Thursday of the rumored new round of talks suggests that the country ’ s political impasse is far from being resolved .
As of Thursday , Venezuela has reported 298 cases of COVID-19 , the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus , 10 deaths and 122 recoveries .
Mr. Guaido on Thursday said he has been offered opportunities by the European Union and the Organization of American States to address the emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” “ We will require financial support from the international community to address the health emergency , ” Mr. Guaido said , as he painted a grim picture of how the coronavirus pandemic may hammer the country .
The World Food Program this week placed Venezuela on par with countries such as Yemen , Syria , Ethiopia , Sudan , Nigeria , and Haiti as at risk of famine from the coronavirus outbreak and the resulting damage to the economy .
The country has just 300 ventilators — a key medical tool in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among its 28 million people , Mr. Guaido said .
He said $ 20 million has entered Venezuela through a “ robust operation , ” that is believed to have come from offshore accounts controlled by Mr. Guaido ’ s opposition party .
But it is not enough to protect the country from diving further into the humanitarian crisis .
The country ’ s health care system has virtually collapsed from high demand for medical assistance and a lack of supplies .
Most put the blame on the socialist policies of the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and joblessness despite Venezuela ’ s vast energy resources .
But Mr. Maduro himself points to the sanctions the U.S. has placed on the government in an effort to push the socialist leader out .
Mr. Guaido , who has struggled to maintain the momentum of his insurgency as the struggle with the government grinds on , made clear he has no future for his rival in any future political settlement .
“ We need help , we need assistance , ” Mr. Guaido said .
“ We will not be able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Nicolas Maduro at the front of the government .
”

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, whom the U.S. and many in the region consider the country’s rightful leader, shot down reports Thursday he and his aides were negotiating with the regime of socialist President Nicolas Maduro on a power-sharing deal that could lead to new elections.
With the strong backing of the Trump administration, Mr. Guaido has been locked in a deepening political stalemate with Mr. Maduro, even as the country faces a humanitarian and economic crisis compounded now by fears of a looming coronavirus pandemic.
The U.S. recently floated its own plan for a transition of power in Caracas — immediately rejected by Mr. Maduro — and new reports this week surfaced that representatives of the government and the opposition had begun secret “exploratory talks” on a new political settlement.
But Mr. Guaido, the leader of the opposition in Venezuela’s national parliament firmly denied that in a Washington teleconference Thursday.
“No, there are no negotiations or remediations whatsoever,” Mr. Guaido said via translator during a virtual conversation hosted by the Atlantic Council. “Right now the dictator is using our efforts in an unusual way, in the wrong way.”
The Reuters news agency, citing what it said were several sources familiar with the discussions, said the closed-door talks were born out of the increasing urgency of the coronavirus threat, coupled with increasing fuel shortages and crippling U.S. sanctions on the Maduro government and the Venezuelan oil sector.
Mr. Guaido’s claim to be the country’s “interim president” — based on what he says was Mr. Maduro’s fraud-ridden reelection win in 2018 — has been recognized by the U.S. and some 60 other countries. But the stubborn Mr. Maduro has so far successfully resisted an intense Trump administration campaign to drive him from power or to entice Venezuela’s powerful military to abandon the regime.
In a televised broadcast over the weekend, Mr. Maduro said his government was “ready for dialogue, to understand one another and reach a humanitarian agreement to attend to the coronavirus [pandemic].”
The government of Norway organized talks between the two camps last year in which Mr. Guaido’s supporters pressed for new presidential elections. But the talks broke down after Mr. Maduro protested against new U.S. sanctions on his government.
But Mr. Guaido’s renunciation Thursday of the rumored new round of talks suggests that the country’s political impasse is far from being resolved.
As of Thursday, Venezuela has reported 298 cases of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus, 10 deaths and 122 recoveries.
Mr. Guaido on Thursday said he has been offered opportunities by the European Union and the Organization of American States to address the emergency pandemic and ultimately “reach a transition.”
“We will require financial support from the international community to address the health emergency,” Mr. Guaido said, as he painted a grim picture of how the coronavirus pandemic may hammer the country.
The World Food Program this week placed Venezuela on par with countries such as Yemen, Syria, Ethiopia, Sudan, Nigeria, and Haiti as at risk of famine from the coronavirus outbreak and the resulting damage to the economy. The country has just 300 ventilators — a key medical tool in aiding patients who have contracted COVID-19 — among its 28 million people, Mr. Guaido said.
He said $20 million has entered Venezuela through a “robust operation,” that is believed to have come from offshore accounts controlled by Mr. Guaido’s opposition party. But it is not enough to protect the country from diving further into the humanitarian crisis.
The country’s health care system has virtually collapsed from high demand for medical assistance and a lack of supplies.
Most put the blame on the socialist policies of the government, which have led to record poverty and joblessness despite Venezuela’s vast energy resources. But Mr. Maduro himself points to the sanctions the U.S. has placed on the government in an effort to push the socialist leader out.
Mr. Guaido, who has struggled to maintain the momentum of his insurgency as the struggle with the government grinds on, made clear he has no future for his rival in any future political settlement.
“We need help, we need assistance,” Mr. Guaido said. “We will not be able to get a solution to this awful emergency with Nicolas Maduro at the front of the government.”
• Lauren Toms can be reached at lmeier@washingtontimes.com.


washingtontimes--2020-04-23--Illinois agency refers 'enforcement action' against company

CHICAGO ( AP ) - An Illinois agency has referred an enforcement action against a company whose demolition of a coal plant caused a dust cloud to cover parts of Chicago neighborhood .
The April 11 implosion at a Hilco Redevelopment Partners site coated Little Village homes , vehicles and streets with dust , the Chicago Sun-Times reported Wednesday .
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has referred an “ enforcement action ” to Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul , saying that Hilco Redevelopment Partners violated the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and the terms and conditions of the company ’ s “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water permit for construction site activities.
” The agency said that Hilco did not fully execute the “ stormwater pollution prevention plan ” that accompanied the stormwater permit that the company acquired in 2019 , which includes “ dust control measures ” for the demolished site .
“ While some dust suppression controls were utilized , a substantial plume of dust exited the site from the implosion , ” IEPA ’ s statement said .
John J. Kim , IEPA director , “ requested that Hilco be required to work with ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues.
” Hilco is “ in open dialogue with the Illinois EPA , the Illinois Attorney General ’ s office and other agencies.
” The “ health , safety and welfare of the local community is of paramount concern to Hilco Redevelopment Partners as we work toward completing this project , ” according to a company-issued statement .
The agency also sent Hilco a violation notice for “ air and water pollution-related violations stemming from the incident ” a day after Hilco sent a “ Incidence of Non-compliance Report ” on April 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is exactly what we ’ ve been asking for and what we thought to be true , ” Kim Wasserman , executive director of the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization , said Wednesday .
“ They violated massively - not just city protocol , but state protocol .
We ’ re glad the IEPA came through and did their due diligence on this.
” Hilco recently apologized for causing “ anxiety and fear.
” But that didn ’ t stop the company from being sued .
Clifford Law Offices filed a lawsuit in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residents earlier this month .
The company has been fined $ 68,000 and has been given 16 citations .
A developer and two contractors overseeing the destruction face nearly $ 70,000 in fines .

CHICAGO (AP) - An Illinois agency has referred an enforcement action against a company whose demolition of a coal plant caused a dust cloud to cover parts of Chicago neighborhood.
The April 11 implosion at a Hilco Redevelopment Partners site coated Little Village homes, vehicles and streets with dust, the Chicago Sun-Times reported Wednesday.
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has referred an “enforcement action” to Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, saying that Hilco Redevelopment Partners violated the Illinois Environmental Protection Act and the terms and conditions of the company’s “National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System general storm water permit for construction site activities.”
The agency said that Hilco did not fully execute the “stormwater pollution prevention plan” that accompanied the stormwater permit that the company acquired in 2019, which includes “dust control measures” for the demolished site.
“While some dust suppression controls were utilized, a substantial plume of dust exited the site from the implosion,” IEPA’s statement said.
John J. Kim, IEPA director, “requested that Hilco be required to work with” the agency to “prevent future dust control issues.”
Hilco is “in open dialogue with the Illinois EPA, the Illinois Attorney General’s office and other agencies.” The “health, safety and welfare of the local community is of paramount concern to Hilco Redevelopment Partners as we work toward completing this project,” according to a company-issued statement.
The agency also sent Hilco a violation notice for “air and water pollution-related violations stemming from the incident” a day after Hilco sent a “Incidence of Non-compliance Report” on April 15.
“What you’re seeing is exactly what we’ve been asking for and what we thought to be true,” Kim Wasserman, executive director of the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, said Wednesday. “They violated massively - not just city protocol, but state protocol. We’re glad the IEPA came through and did their due diligence on this.”
Hilco recently apologized for causing “anxiety and fear.” But that didn’t stop the company from being sued. Clifford Law Offices filed a lawsuit in Cook County Circuit Court on behalf of residents earlier this month.
The company has been fined $68,000 and has been given 16 citations. A developer and two contractors overseeing the destruction face nearly $70,000 in fines.