westernjournal--2020-03-17--Insider Blasts Media Lie That Trump Cut WH Pandemic Office: I Know It Exists Because I Ran It

President Donald Trump and his administration ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic has been ruthlessly criticized and mocked by many Democrats and liberal media figures , often via undeniably “ fake news ” that grossly misleads about what has and hasn ’ t been done to combat the infectious disease .
Typically , those fake news attacks involve taking the president ’ s remarks out of context or acting as if proposed budget cuts that never materialized caused actual damage .
But there is one fake news narrative that has caught hold with the left and been repeated ad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a special directorate within the National Security Council dedicated to guarding against pandemics .
That narrative received a substantial boost last week when The Washington Post published an Op-Ed from a former administration official — an Obama-era holdover named Beth Cameron — who titled her piece “ I ran the White House pandemic office .
Trump closed it.
” Her lengthy and highly critical article explained how former President Barack Obama had , in the wake of the Ebola virus outbreak , picked her in 2016 to head up the newly created Directorate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NSC .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle Cameron went on to describe what the directorate was supposed to do in the event of a pandemic and public health crisis in terms of raising the alarm and helping to coordinate a response on the federal , state , and local levels .
She went on to claim that then-National Security Adviser John Bolton had disbanded her unit completely in May of 2018 and strongly implied that such an action had left the federal government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new coronavirus pandemic .
Needless to say , this narrative was dutifully picked up and run with by the anti-Trump left .
But , according to another Op-Ed written to counter Cameron ’ s claims , it simply isn ’ t true .
The piece , surprisingly published by The Post as well , is by Tim Morrison , formerly the senior director of counterproliferation and biodefense at the NSC under President Trump .
Morrison titled his piece “ No , the White House didn ’ t ‘ dissolve ’ its pandemic response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote , “ Because I led the very directorate assigned that mission , the counterproliferation and biodefense office , for a year and then handed it off to another official who still holds the post , I know the charge is specious.
” The former administration official attributed the “ tendentious accusations ” that Trump had disbanded the pandemic office to the fact that it was an election year and politics rules everything .
Morrison suggested that being in the middle of a “ worldwide health emergency ” was neither the time nor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also acknowledged that , yes , President Trump had made cuts to the admittedly bloated NSC , but those cuts , rather than completely do away with certain aspects , were simply focused on streamlining the organization to make it more effective and efficient .
As it turns out , the counterproliferation and biodefense directorate that he led was actually the consolidation of three separate directorates that had similar and , at times , overlapping areas of responsibility — namely , arms control and proliferation , weapons of mass destruction and terrorism , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : ' A Disgrace ' : Trump Uses News Conference To Slam NYT Over Wildly Misleading Headline “ It is this reorganization that critics have misconstrued or intentionally misrepresented , ” Morrison wrote .
“ If anything , the combined directorate was stronger because related expertise could be commingled.
” He further noted that in spite of even further reductions in the size of the NSC since he left the administration , the staff dedicated to biodefense had been left untouched .
He pointed out that President Trump had actually taken steps during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nation ’ s defenses against biological threats like a global pandemic .
As to why any of this matters , Morrison wrote , “ It matters because when people play politics in the middle of a crisis , we are all less safe .
We are less safe because public servants are distracted when they are dragged into politics .
“ We ’ re less safe because the American people have been recklessly scared into doubting the competence of their government to help keep them safe , secure and healthy.
” Morrison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this and other fake news media attacks on the administration .
He suggested that everyone come together in a united fashion to not only ensure Americans could survive this and future pandemics , but also to hold the communist Chinese regime accountable for its failure , deliberate or otherwise , to warn the rest of the world during the initial spread of the new virus .
“ There are real threats emanating from this pandemic .
We need to focus on getting our response right and save the finger-pointing for what comes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — we will get through this .
And for the love of God , wash your hands , ” he concluded .
As Morrison ’ s Op-Ed claims , the media has been gleefully perpetuating an absolute lie about Trump disbanding a pandemic response group in the NSC .
It is grossly misleading narratives like this one that have earned the media their “ fake news ” label and the distrust of most Americans — and deservedly so .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read @ @ @ @

President Donald Trump and his administration’s response to the coronavirus pandemic has been ruthlessly criticized and mocked by many Democrats and liberal media figures, often via undeniably “fake news” that grossly misleads about what has and hasn’t been done to combat the infectious disease.
Typically, those fake news attacks involve taking the president’s remarks out of context or acting as if proposed budget cuts that never materialized caused actual damage.
But there is one fake news narrative that has caught hold with the left and been repeated ad nauseam — that Trump completely shut down a special directorate within the National Security Council dedicated to guarding against pandemics.
That narrative received a substantial boost last week when The Washington Post published an Op-Ed from a former administration official — an Obama-era holdover named Beth Cameron — who titled her piece “I ran the White House pandemic office. Trump closed it.”
Her lengthy and highly critical article explained how former President Barack Obama had, in the wake of the Ebola virus outbreak, picked her in 2016 to head up the newly created Directorate for Global Health Security and Biodefense within the NSC.
Cameron went on to describe what the directorate was supposed to do in the event of a pandemic and public health crisis in terms of raising the alarm and helping to coordinate a response on the federal, state, and local levels.
She went on to claim that then-National Security Adviser John Bolton had disbanded her unit completely in May of 2018 and strongly implied that such an action had left the federal government completely unprepared for the arrival of the new coronavirus pandemic.
Needless to say, this narrative was dutifully picked up and run with by the anti-Trump left.
But, according to another Op-Ed written to counter Cameron’s claims, it simply isn’t true. The piece, surprisingly published by The Post as well, is by Tim Morrison, formerly the senior director of counterproliferation and biodefense at the NSC under President Trump.
Has the media been unfair in its coverage of how Trump has handled the coronavirus pandemic? Yes No
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Morrison titled his piece “No, the White House didn’t ‘dissolve’ its pandemic response office. I was there.”
Morrison wrote, “Because I led the very directorate assigned that mission, the counterproliferation and biodefense office, for a year and then handed it off to another official who still holds the post, I know the charge is specious.”
The former administration official attributed the “tendentious accusations” that Trump had disbanded the pandemic office to the fact that it was an election year and politics rules everything. Morrison suggested that being in the middle of a “worldwide health emergency” was neither the time nor place for such partisan hackery.
He also acknowledged that, yes, President Trump had made cuts to the admittedly bloated NSC, but those cuts, rather than completely do away with certain aspects, were simply focused on streamlining the organization to make it more effective and efficient.
As it turns out, the counterproliferation and biodefense directorate that he led was actually the consolidation of three separate directorates that had similar and, at times, overlapping areas of responsibility — namely, arms control and proliferation, weapons of mass destruction and terrorism, and global health and biodefense.
“It is this reorganization that critics have misconstrued or intentionally misrepresented,” Morrison wrote. “If anything, the combined directorate was stronger because related expertise could be commingled.”
He further noted that in spite of even further reductions in the size of the NSC since he left the administration, the staff dedicated to biodefense had been left untouched. He pointed out that President Trump had actually taken steps during his tenure to shore up and strengthen the nation’s defenses against biological threats like a global pandemic.
As to why any of this matters, Morrison wrote, “It matters because when people play politics in the middle of a crisis, we are all less safe. We are less safe because public servants are distracted when they are dragged into politics.
“We’re less safe because the American people have been recklessly scared into doubting the competence of their government to help keep them safe, secure and healthy.”
Morrison decried the “political gamesmanship” inherent in this and other fake news media attacks on the administration.
He suggested that everyone come together in a united fashion to not only ensure Americans could survive this and future pandemics, but also to hold the communist Chinese regime accountable for its failure, deliberate or otherwise, to warn the rest of the world during the initial spread of the new virus.
“There are real threats emanating from this pandemic. We need to focus on getting our response right and save the finger-pointing for what comes after. This is the United States — we will get through this. And for the love of God, wash your hands,” he concluded.
As Morrison’s Op-Ed claims, the media has been gleefully perpetuating an absolute lie about Trump disbanding a pandemic response group in the NSC.
It is grossly misleading narratives like this one that have earned the media their “fake news” label and the distrust of most Americans — and deservedly so.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--China Expels Journalists from Major US Publications

China announced on Tuesday it was revoking the media credentials for journalists from three major U.S. outlets : The New York Times , The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal .
The Wall Street Journal reported the move by Beijing marked the “ largest expulsion of foreign journalists in the post-Mao era , amid an escalating battle with the Trump administration over media operating in the two countries.
” According to the paper , journalists whose media credentials were due to expire at the end of the year have been given 10 calendar days to turn them over to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the order are not permitted to report from China , nor from the semi-autonomous territories of Hong Kong or Macau .
Additionally , Beijing is requiring the three media outlets , as well as Voice of America and Time magazine , “ to submit information about staff , finances , operations and real estate in China , ” according to The Wall Street Journal .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle Voice of America is the only one of the five that is owned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are “ reciprocal countermeasures that China is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the U.S. , ” China ’ s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement , citing a spokesperson .
On March 2 , Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced in a statement the U.S. was setting a “ personnel cap on certain PRC-controlled state media entities in the United States.
” “ The cap applies to the five Chinese state media entities operating in the United States that have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they are effectively controlled by the PRC government , ” the statement read .
“ Unlike foreign media organizations in China , these entities are not independent news organizations.
” The Wall Street Journal reported the cap took the number of Chinese nationals working in the U.S. at the state-run media outlets down from 160 to 100 .
China expelled three Wall Street Journal reporters last month after the paper ran an Op-Ed titled , “ China Is the Real Sick Man of Asia.
” At a news briefing from the State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reverse course regarding the removal of journalists .
“ This isn ’ t apples to apples , ” Pompeo said regarding China ’ s move against The Wall Street Journal , The Times and The Post .
RELATED : Trump Defies Media Complaints , Defends Use of the Term 'Chinese Virus ' To Describe Coronavirus “ You all know the press freedoms you have , ” he said .
“ We know that that kind of freedom doesn ’ t exist inside of China.
” “ The Chinese will tell you that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know more about their country , and yet they continue to take actions like the one you see today , where they deny the world the capacity to know what ’ s really going on inside of their country , ” Pompeo added .
The secretary of state went on to explain that the Chinese journalists ordered to leave the U.S. earlier this month “ were not media that were acting here freely.
” “ They were part of Chinese propaganda outlets , ” he said .
Matt Murray , editor in chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China for making the move against journalists , particularly amid the coronavirus outbreak .
“ China ’ s unprecedented attack on freedom of the press comes at a time of unparalleled global crisis , ” he tweeted .
“ Trusted news reporting from and about China has never been more important .
We oppose government interference with a free press anywhere in the world.
” Dean Baquet , the executive editor of The Times , also condemned China ’ s move .
He called it “ especially irresponsible at a time when the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of credible information about the coronavirus pandemic.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

China announced on Tuesday it was revoking the media credentials for journalists from three major U.S. outlets: The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal.
The Wall Street Journal reported the move by Beijing marked the “largest expulsion of foreign journalists in the post-Mao era, amid an escalating battle with the Trump administration over media operating in the two countries.”
According to the paper, journalists whose media credentials were due to expire at the end of the year have been given 10 calendar days to turn them over to the Chinese government.
Those individuals included in the order are not permitted to report from China, nor from the semi-autonomous territories of Hong Kong or Macau.
Additionally, Beijing is requiring the three media outlets, as well as Voice of America and Time magazine, “to submit information about staff, finances, operations and real estate in China,” according to The Wall Street Journal.
Voice of America is the only one of the five that is owned by the U.S. government.
The actions are “reciprocal countermeasures that China is compelled to take in response to the unreasonable oppression the Chinese media organizations experience in the U.S.,” China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, citing a spokesperson.
On March 2, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced in a statement the U.S. was setting a “personnel cap on certain PRC-controlled state media entities in the United States.”
“The cap applies to the five Chinese state media entities operating in the United States that have been designated as foreign missions, which recognizes that they are effectively controlled by the PRC government,” the statement read.
Do you think China's lack of transparency made the coronavirus outbreak much worse? Yes No
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“Unlike foreign media organizations in China, these entities are not independent news organizations.”
The Wall Street Journal reported the cap took the number of Chinese nationals working in the U.S. at the state-run media outlets down from 160 to 100.
China expelled three Wall Street Journal reporters last month after the paper ran an Op-Ed titled, “China Is the Real Sick Man of Asia.”
At a news briefing from the State Department on Tuesday, Pompeo urged China to reverse course regarding the removal of journalists.
“This isn’t apples to apples,” Pompeo said regarding China’s move against The Wall Street Journal, The Times and The Post.
“You all know the press freedoms you have,” he said. “We know that that kind of freedom doesn’t exist inside of China.”
“The Chinese will tell you that they want more information, people to know more about their country, and yet they continue to take actions like the one you see today, where they deny the world the capacity to know what’s really going on inside of their country,” Pompeo added.
The secretary of state went on to explain that the Chinese journalists ordered to leave the U.S. earlier this month “were not media that were acting here freely.”
“They were part of Chinese propaganda outlets,” he said.
Matt Murray, editor in chief of The Wall Street Journal, chastised China for making the move against journalists, particularly amid the coronavirus outbreak.
“China’s unprecedented attack on freedom of the press comes at a time of unparalleled global crisis,” he tweeted.
Here’s my statement on China’s action against US journalists https://t.co/U3n5cp3UON — Matt Murray (@murraymatt) March 17, 2020
“Trusted news reporting from and about China has never been more important. We oppose government interference with a free press anywhere in the world.”
Dean Baquet, the executive editor of The Times, also condemned China’s move.
He called it “especially irresponsible at a time when the world needs the free and open flow of credible information about the coronavirus pandemic.”
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Left Bands Together in an Attempt To Oust Rare Pro-Life Democrat

With all eyes trained on a two-man 2020 Democratic presidential primary going into the key states of Arizona , Florida and Illinois , everything rides on Tuesday ’ s results for a number of under-emphasized down-ballot candidates .
According to the Washington Free Beacon , however , eight-term Illinois congressman and rare pro-life Democrat Dan Lipinski just might be chief among them .
One of only four members in a Democrat-controlled House of Representatives to regularly break from the party line regarding abortion , Lipinski faced his second hard-fought primary battle in as many election cycles this year , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their collective weight behind repeat challenger Marie Newman .
Newman ’ s first attempt to unseat the blue-dog Democrat came amidst the progressive surge of the 2018 midterm elections and was backed by a strong advertising push , paid for in large part by direct and indirect support from the Planned Parenthood Action Fund , EMILY ’ s List and NARAL Pro-Choice America .
Despite immense financial backing , the progressive activist and former advertising consultant would fall to Lipinski by a slim 2-percentage point margin , according the Chicago Tribune , providing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Washington over Republican nominee Arthur Jones , a Holocaust denier and former member of the American Nazi Party .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle Seemingly frustrated with the 2018 results , those same so-called pro-choice groups — alongside a handful of prominent national figures within the Democratic Party — have invested in Newman all the more strongly this time around in terms of endorsements and advertising dollars .
Newman ’ s campaign has been the beneficiary of roughly $ 1.5 million in outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported .
In an eleventh-hour media media blitz both Planned Parenthood and EMILY ’ s List targeted the Lipinski on Newman ’ s behalf , painting his pro-life values as out of touch with mainstream American thought .
Planned Parenthood tweeted : “ 77 % of people in this country support abortion access .
Dan Lipinski is not one of them .
@ DanLipinski is out of step with the people of Illinois .
Vote him out March 17th.
” Far-left Sens .
Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Pramila Jayapal of Washington , have also endorsed Newman .
So to has Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
The freshman New York Democrat , famous herself for unseating a long-serving Democrat in 2018 , endorsed Newman last September , citing Lipinski ’ s supposed “ extremely problematic ” support for the “ Republican agenda ” as a major concern .
“ The out-of-state attention has helped Newman more than double Lipinski ’ s fundraising efforts down the stretch , raking in a pre-primary haul of more than $ 490,000 to Lipinski ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beacon reported .
A devout Catholic , however , Lipinski has been unwavering in his support of the pro-life movement in recent years , largely voting against Democratic abortion funding legislation and even attending the March for Life — decisions that Mallory Quigley , a spokeswoman for the pro-life Susan B. Anthony List , said are certain to play well with the congressman ’ s constituents in religious districts of Chicago .
“ Rep .
Lipinski knows who his constituents are and their opposition to the current Democratic Party platform that supports abortion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paid for by taxpayers , ” Quigley told the Free Beacon .
“ The Democratic Party is working overtime to kick out pro-life Democrats and it will be to their own political peril.
” And according to Chicago Business , polling commissioned by the Lipinski campaign and carried out by a trusted national polling organization seems to suggest that is the case , with Newman down 22 percentage points as of January .
Despite increased concerns and substantial governmental efforts in response to the fast-spreading coronavirus , Illinois primary elections were expected to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s campaign was clear on social media in the hours leading up to election day that , though turning out the vote was key , it would be crucial for constituents , candidates and campaign staffers alike to be taking all necessary precautions for preventing the spread of the disease .
“ Be sure to check in on your family & friends and get a plan together to get to the polls !
” Lipinski wrote in a series of tweets .
“ We are keeping it safe , but still working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of our campaign offices .
Can not thank our volunteers enough !
” The Lipinski campaign ’ s scheduled election-night event has also officially been canceled , the incumbent congressman announced Monday .
Polling locations around Illinois are expected to close at approximately 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time , according to CBS News .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

With all eyes trained on a two-man 2020 Democratic presidential primary going into the key states of Arizona, Florida and Illinois, everything rides on Tuesday’s results for a number of under-emphasized down-ballot candidates.
According to the Washington Free Beacon, however, eight-term Illinois congressman and rare pro-life Democrat Dan Lipinski just might be chief among them.
One of only four members in a Democrat-controlled House of Representatives to regularly break from the party line regarding abortion, Lipinski faced his second hard-fought primary battle in as many election cycles this year, as major abortion interest groups nationwide have thrown their collective weight behind repeat challenger Marie Newman.
Newman’s first attempt to unseat the blue-dog Democrat came amidst the progressive surge of the 2018 midterm elections and was backed by a strong advertising push, paid for in large part by direct and indirect support from the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, EMILY’s List and NARAL Pro-Choice America.
Despite immense financial backing, the progressive activist and former advertising consultant would fall to Lipinski by a slim 2-percentage point margin, according the Chicago Tribune, providing the pro-life Democrat a clear path back to Washington over Republican nominee Arthur Jones, a Holocaust denier and former member of the American Nazi Party.
Seemingly frustrated with the 2018 results, those same so-called pro-choice groups — alongside a handful of prominent national figures within the Democratic Party — have invested in Newman all the more strongly this time around in terms of endorsements and advertising dollars.
Newman’s campaign has been the beneficiary of roughly $1.5 million in outside spending thus far, the Free Beacon reported.
In an eleventh-hour media media blitz both Planned Parenthood and EMILY’s List targeted the Lipinski on Newman’s behalf, painting his pro-life values as out of touch with mainstream American thought.
.@Marie4Congress (IL-03) is leading the charge against anti-choice and anti-LGBTQ+ Rep. Dan Lipinski. Today, March 17, is the Illinois primary — make sure to get out and vote for Marie! pic.twitter.com/OPhkeXqjGp — EMILY’s List (@emilyslist) March 17, 2020
77% of people in this country support abortion access. Dan Lipinski is not one of them. @DanLipinski is out of step with the people of Illinois. Vote him out March 17th. Learn more: https://t.co/j9ZWPGjN5A #WeDecide2020 pic.twitter.com/LwRiJZxNqP — Planned Parenthood Action (@PPact) March 10, 2020
Planned Parenthood tweeted: “77% of people in this country support abortion access. Dan Lipinski is not one of them. @DanLipinski is out of step with the people of Illinois. Vote him out March 17th.”
Far-left Sens. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, as well as Reps. Ayanna Pressley Massachusetts and Pramila Jayapal of Washington, have also endorsed Newman.
So to has Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
The freshman New York Democrat, famous herself for unseating a long-serving Democrat in 2018, endorsed Newman last September, citing Lipinski’s supposed “extremely problematic” support for the “Republican agenda” as a major concern.
“The out-of-state attention has helped Newman more than double Lipinski’s fundraising efforts down the stretch, raking in a pre-primary haul of more than $490,000 to Lipinski’s nearly $223,000,” the Free Beacon reported.
A devout Catholic, however, Lipinski has been unwavering in his support of the pro-life movement in recent years, largely voting against Democratic abortion funding legislation and even attending the March for Life — decisions that Mallory Quigley, a spokeswoman for the pro-life Susan B. Anthony List, said are certain to play well with the congressman’s constituents in religious districts of Chicago.
“Rep. Lipinski knows who his constituents are and their opposition to the current Democratic Party platform that supports abortion on demand, up until birth, paid for by taxpayers,” Quigley told the Free Beacon.
“The Democratic Party is working overtime to kick out pro-life Democrats and it will be to their own political peril.”
And according to Chicago Business, polling commissioned by the Lipinski campaign and carried out by a trusted national polling organization seems to suggest that is the case, with Newman down 22 percentage points as of January.
Despite increased concerns and substantial governmental efforts in response to the fast-spreading coronavirus, Illinois primary elections were expected to proceed largely as scheduled Tuesday.
Lipinski’s campaign was clear on social media in the hours leading up to election day that, though turning out the vote was key, it would be crucial for constituents, candidates and campaign staffers alike to be taking all necessary precautions for preventing the spread of the disease.
Do you think pro-lifers should leave the Democratic Party? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 64% (78 Votes) No: 36% (43 Votes)
“Be sure to check in on your family & friends and get a plan together to get to the polls!” Lipinski wrote in a series of tweets.
“We are keeping it safe, but still working to turn out the vote tonight from all of our campaign offices. Cannot thank our volunteers enough!”
The Lipinski campaign’s scheduled election-night event has also officially been canceled, the incumbent congressman announced Monday.
Polling locations around Illinois are expected to close at approximately 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, according to CBS News.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Trump Defies Media Complaints, Defends Use of the Term ‘Chinese Virus’ To Describe Coronavirus

President Donald Trump is defending his use of the term “ Chinese virus ” to describe the coronavirus , which originated in Wuhan , the capital city of China ’ s Hubei province .
At a White House news briefing Tuesday , Trump rebuked Chinese officials and others who have claimed the coronavirus was planted in China by the U.S. military .
“ China and others have criticized you for using the phrase ‘ Chinese virus.
’ How do you feel about that ?
Are you going to continue to use that phrase ?
” a reporter asked the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which was false , that our military gave this to them , ” Trump responded .
“ That was false .
And rather than having an argument , I said I have to call it where it came from .
It did come from China .
So I think it ’ s a very accurate term .
“ I didn ’ t appreciate the fact that China was saying that our military gave it to them .
Our military did not give it to anybody.
” TRENDING : Dick Morris : A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Battle He then pushed back against the reporter ’ s assertion that using the phrase creates a “ stigma.
” “ I think saying that our military gave it to them creates a stigma , ” the president said .
Trump has been using the term “ Chinese virus ” in recent days , drawing praise from some for calling it like it is and backlash from others for supposed bigotry .
On Monday , he tweeted , “ The United States will be powerfully supporting those industries , like Airlines and others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chinese Virus .
We will be stronger than ever before !
” China ’ s largest newspaper , the state-run People ’ s Daily , attacked the terminology on Twitter .
“ Some US politicians try to stigmatize China with # COVID19 , which China strongly condemns .
China urges the US side to stop this groundless accusation , the Chinese FM spokesperson said on Tuesday in response to US President Trump ’ s ‘ Chinese Virus ’ tweet , ” the newspaper tweeted .
RELATED : McConnell to Senate Republicans Opposed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It Anyway' Geng Shuang , a spokesman for China ’ s Foreign Ministry , said , “ The U.S. should first take care of its own matters , ” NBC News reported .
A number of Democrats and others on the left also accused the president of racism or bigotry for using the term “ Chinese virus.
” Despite the backlash , some have defended the president ’ s decision to use the virus ’ place of origin when describing it .
Trump previously drew criticism from CNN ’ s Jim Acosta for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foreign virus.
” Acosta claimed on CNN that the president ’ s referring to coronavirus as a “ foreign virus ” came across “ to a lot of Americans as smacking of xenophobia.
” Trump ’ s comment Tuesday about China blaming the spread of the virus on the U.S. military is in response to a conspiracy theory being pushed by Chinese officials that the virus did not originate in Wuhan , or even in China .
China ’ s Foreign Ministry spokesman , Zhao Lijian , posted a video of Robert Redfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Disease Control and Prevention , addressing Congress about the virus March 11 .
“ CDC was caught on the spot .
When did patient zero begin in US ?
How many people are infected ?
What are the names of the hospitals ?
It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan , ” Zhao Lijian wrote .
“ Be transparent !
Make public your data !
US owe us an explanation !
” he said .
CNN reported other Chinese state media outlets , including national broadcaster CCTV and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video on Twitter .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

President Donald Trump is defending his use of the term “Chinese virus” to describe the coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan, the capital city of China’s Hubei province.
At a White House news briefing Tuesday, Trump rebuked Chinese officials and others who have claimed the coronavirus was planted in China by the U.S. military.
“China and others have criticized you for using the phrase ‘Chinese virus.’ How do you feel about that? Are you going to continue to use that phrase?” a reporter asked the president.
“China was putting out information, which was false, that our military gave this to them,” Trump responded. “That was false. And rather than having an argument, I said I have to call it where it came from. It did come from China. So I think it’s a very accurate term.
“I didn’t appreciate the fact that China was saying that our military gave it to them. Our military did not give it to anybody.”
He then pushed back against the reporter’s assertion that using the phrase creates a “stigma.”
“I think saying that our military gave it to them creates a stigma,” the president said.
Do you think President Trump should say "Chinese virus"? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 99% (164 Votes) No: 1% (1 Votes)
Trump has been using the term “Chinese virus” in recent days, drawing praise from some for calling it like it is and backlash from others for supposed bigotry.
On Monday, he tweeted, “The United States will be powerfully supporting those industries, like Airlines and others, that are particularly affected by the Chinese Virus. We will be stronger than ever before!”
The United States will be powerfully supporting those industries, like Airlines and others, that are particularly affected by the Chinese Virus. We will be stronger than ever before! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 16, 2020
China’s largest newspaper, the state-run People’s Daily, attacked the terminology on Twitter.
“Some US politicians try to stigmatize China with #COVID19, which China strongly condemns. China urges the US side to stop this groundless accusation, the Chinese FM spokesperson said on Tuesday in response to US President Trump’s ‘Chinese Virus’ tweet,” the newspaper tweeted.
Some US politicians try to stigmatize China with #COVID19, which China strongly condemns. China urges the US side to stop this groundless accusation, the Chinese FM spokesperson said on Tuesday in response to US President Trump’s “Chinese Virus” tweet. pic.twitter.com/JMDOFignpW — People’s Daily, China (@PDChina) March 17, 2020
Geng Shuang, a spokesman for China’s Foreign Ministry, said, “The U.S. should first take care of its own matters,” NBC News reported.
A number of Democrats and others on the left also accused the president of racism or bigotry for using the term “Chinese virus.”
If you’re looking for someone to pin this crisis on, try the guy who made up a phony Google website or promised testing kits that he STILL hasn’t delivered. Our Asian-American communities — people YOU serve — are already suffering. They don’t need you fueling more bigotry. https://t.co/jjcO7treC2 — Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) March 17, 2020
Let me be clear: Calling #COVID19 the “Chinese Virus” is incredibly racist. Ignorant tweets will only lead to hate and discrimination against the Asian American community. Stop tweeting racist things and start figuring out how we are getting test kits to everyone who needs one. https://t.co/s6sKtkGNcU — Mark Takano (@RepMarkTakano) March 17, 2020
Trump just defended his racist comment calling the coronavirus a “Chinese virus.” Because he’s a racist. It’s that simple. — Scott Dworkin (@funder) March 17, 2020
Mr. President: This is not acceptable. Calling it the “Chinese virus” only instigates blame, racism, and hatred against Asians – here and abroad. We need leadership that speaks clearly against racism; Leadership that brings the nation and world together. Not further divides. https://t.co/wPTcnoO5QU — Eugene Cho (@EugeneCho) March 17, 2020
Despite the backlash, some have defended the president’s decision to use the virus’ place of origin when describing it.
It is not only NOT racist to call coronavirus the Chinese virus — a term directly targeting the Chinese government, not Chinese people — it is both accurate and necessary as the Chinese government distributes propaganda blaming everyone but their own s****y government for this. — Ben Shapiro (@benshapiro) March 17, 2020
If you think you’re having a bad day… imagine being someone who got excited to virtue signal by saying that it’s racist to call it the “Chinese Virus” even though that’s EXACTLY where it originated. Pandemics don’t care how #woke you are. — Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) March 17, 2020
I reserve the right to use Wuhan virus and Chinese virus as they are not racist, but geographic descriptors like Ebola, Zika, Rocky Mountain fever, St. Louis encephalitis, West Nile, etc. — Erick Erickson (@EWErickson) March 17, 2020
Trump previously drew criticism from CNN’s Jim Acosta for referring to the coronavirus as a “foreign virus.”
Trump calls coronavirus a ‘foreign virus’ in Oval Office address https://t.co/KcuSvjeEdJ — Jim Acosta (@Acosta) March 12, 2020
Acosta claimed on CNN that the president’s referring to coronavirus as a “foreign virus” came across “to a lot of Americans as smacking of xenophobia.”
Trump’s comment Tuesday about China blaming the spread of the virus on the U.S. military is in response to a conspiracy theory being pushed by Chinese officials that the virus did not originate in Wuhan, or even in China.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Zhao Lijian, posted a video of Robert Redfield, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, addressing Congress about the virus March 11.
“CDC was caught on the spot. When did patient zero begin in US? How many people are infected? What are the names of the hospitals? It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan,” Zhao Lijian wrote.
“Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation!” he said.
2/2 CDC was caught on the spot. When did patient zero begin in US? How many people are infected? What are the names of the hospitals? It might be US army who brought the epidemic to Wuhan. Be transparent! Make public your data! US owe us an explanation! pic.twitter.com/vYNZRFPWo3 — Lijian Zhao 赵立坚 (@zlj517) March 12, 2020
CNN reported other Chinese state media outlets, including national broadcaster CCTV and the tabloid Global Times, also shared the video on Twitter.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Hotel Staff Goes Above & Beyond Call of Duty To Safely Return Little Girl’s ‘Ruff Ruff’

Anyone who has had a child has likely experienced the heartbreak that is losing a beloved toy , blankie or other sentimental item .
For most kids , it ’ s that one particular item that means the world , and no substitute will do .
In many cases , these lost items remain lost , and after a time of grieving the little ones find a new item to dote on — but thanks to a dedicated group of hotel staff , one little girl has been reunited with her dear “ Ruff Ruff ” and won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It began when the Kuykendalls were in Richmond , Virginia , for a soccer tournament .
It wasn ’ t until they left that they realized their grave mistake : Ruff Ruff had been left behind at the hotel .
Mom Allison called to ask about the toy , and the stuffed dog was spotted and retrieved by staff .
Employees then proceeded to record the little stuffed animal ’ s adventures , leaving more than just the family smiling .
“ We want to thank the family of Mr. Ruff Ruff as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recent visit !
” Doubletree by Hilton Richmond Midlothian posted on March 4 .
“ He assisted in checking in our guests , handing out our delicious chocolate chip walnut cookies and even assisted in cleaning !
” TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle “ At the end of the day , a little rest and relaxation by the pool was just what he needed … # weloveourguests # mrruffruffgoeshome # wearehilton ” Photos showed Ruff Ruff working at a computer , snuggling into a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , complete with a towel and sunglasses .
Of course , the toy was sent back to the little girl , who was ecstatic to have her precious pup back .
Allison , warmed by the positive outcome , took to Facebook and posted their story , which has now gone viral .
“ As many of you know , she loves her ‘ Ruff Ruff , ' ” the post began .
“ He goes everywhere she goes.
” “ Sadly , we realized we left him behind last weekend at our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soccer tournament .
I called the hotel when we got home to ask if anyone had seen him.
” “ A few days later we get a package and much to her surprise Ruff Ruff was delivered safely back into her arms .
Hilton Double Tree Midlothian went above and beyond the call of duty .
They sent her a personal letter with photos of all that Ruff Ruff did while he was away.
” RELATED : Penguins Leave Habitat & Go Exploring After Aquarium Forced To Shut Down to Visitors A woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s grandmother also commented on the hotel ’ s original post to thank them for their kindness .
“ Alison ’ s original post has gone viral , ” she wrote .
“ It ’ s getting rave reviews and according to the thousands of comments , you have gained some new customers !
Thanks again for what you did for my granddaughter.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Anyone who has had a child has likely experienced the heartbreak that is losing a beloved toy, blankie or other sentimental item. For most kids, it’s that one particular item that means the world, and no substitute will do.
In many cases, these lost items remain lost, and after a time of grieving the little ones find a new item to dote on — but thanks to a dedicated group of hotel staff, one little girl has been reunited with her dear “Ruff Ruff” and won’t have to settle for a replacement.
It began when the Kuykendalls were in Richmond, Virginia, for a soccer tournament. It wasn’t until they left that they realized their grave mistake: Ruff Ruff had been left behind at the hotel.
Mom Allison called to ask about the toy, and the stuffed dog was spotted and retrieved by staff. Employees then proceeded to record the little stuffed animal’s adventures, leaving more than just the family smiling.
“We want to thank the family of Mr. Ruff Ruff as he was a wonderful help during his recent visit!” Doubletree by Hilton Richmond Midlothian posted on March 4. “He assisted in checking in our guests, handing out our delicious chocolate chip walnut cookies and even assisted in cleaning!”
“At the end of the day, a little rest and relaxation by the pool was just what he needed … #weloveourguests #mrruffruffgoeshome #wearehilton”
Photos showed Ruff Ruff working at a computer, snuggling into a neatly made bed and even chilling poolside, complete with a towel and sunglasses.
Of course, the toy was sent back to the little girl, who was ecstatic to have her precious pup back. Allison, warmed by the positive outcome, took to Facebook and posted their story, which has now gone viral.
“As many of you know, she loves her ‘Ruff Ruff,'” the post began. “He goes everywhere she goes.”
“Sadly, we realized we left him behind last weekend at our hotel in Richmond during the girls’ soccer tournament. I called the hotel when we got home to ask if anyone had seen him.”
“A few days later we get a package and much to her surprise Ruff Ruff was delivered safely back into her arms. Hilton Double Tree Midlothian went above and beyond the call of duty. They sent her a personal letter with photos of all that Ruff Ruff did while he was away.”
“Thank you, Doubletree by Hilton Richmond Midlothian!!”
A woman who identified herself as the young girl’s grandmother also commented on the hotel’s original post to thank them for their kindness.
“Alison’s original post has gone viral,” she wrote. “It’s getting rave reviews and according to the thousands of comments, you have gained some new customers! Thanks again for what you did for my granddaughter.”
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Marc Scaringi: Dem PA Governor Violating the Law by Ordering Businesses To Close

In a virtual news conference on Monday , Pennsylvania Gov .
Tom Wolf announced that “ effective at midnight all nonessential stores are to close in Pennsylvania as well as bars and restaurants , except for takeout.
” He “ anticipates ” the closure will last for two weeks , but did not give a hard deadline .
Wolf ’ s statement sent shockwaves across Pennsylvania , causing consternation among business owners and employees alike .
Owners are asking if they must close their businesses .
Employees want to know if they can stay home .
Which businesses are essential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Let ’ s back up for a minute .
What exactly did the governor say and does he even have the authority to say it ?
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle Wolf said “ stores are to close.
” That inartful choice of words means certain businesses or “ stores , ” whatever that means , must close .
The words – “ are to close ” – constitute a command , even if couched in passive-aggressive language .
But does Wolf have the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses , whether essential or nonessential ?
In short , no .
The governor cited as his authority the Emergency Management Services Code , 35 Pa.C.S .
7101 .
But that law does not apply to the coronavirus .
The Emergency Code pertains to disasters .
It defines them as man-made , such as industrial accidents and oil spills ; natural , such as hurricanes and tornadoes ; or war-caused .
Disease appears nowhere in the definition .
There is a law on preventing the spread of disease , the Disease Prevention and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but that law does not authorize the governor to do what he has done .
Further , the Code does not confer power upon the governor to close businesses even if we stretch the definition of “ disaster ” beyond its breaking point to include disease .
During his news conference , the governor added confusion by declaring that his order is not a “ mandate , ” and that he will not “ enforce ” it .
But that ’ s not what he said the day before or even later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office dated from Sunday reads , “ using his authority under the state ’ s COVID-19 disaster declaration order , Governor Tom Wolf today ordered all restaurants and bars to close…in Allegheny , Bucks , Chester , Delaware and Montgomery counties for 14 days .
… Businesses that offer carry-out , delivery , and drive-through food and beverage service may continue to do so , but eating and drinking inside restaurants and bars is temporarily prohibited ” ( emphasis added ) .
That statement grounds the governor ’ s authority in his previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a reference to his Proclamation of Disaster Emergency of March 6 , which itself cites the Emergency Code as his authority , bringing us back to square one .
Further , the Sunday statement used the words “ ordered ” and “ prohibited , ” which are clearly commands .
It included the threat , “ Businesses that do not adhere to this order could face enforcement actions.
” Really ?
What “ enforcement ” actions ?
The governor does not explain .
In truth , the governor has no authority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses , whether essential or nonessential .
Not only does the Code not apply to disease ; the power to close businesses is not even in that law .
And Wolf ’ s attempt to base his authority in the Code ’ s empowerment of the governor to control the “ ingress and egress ” to a disaster area is just silly .
Your local restaurant , bar or barber shop are simply not disaster areas .
Later in the day on Monday , in reaction to the mass confusion caused by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an update .
He attempted to further define “ essential ” and “ nonessential , ” even though there is no such definition in the law .
( The governor is simply making it up ) .
Who knew a “ pet store ” is an essential business ?
To add to the confusion , the updated statement indicates he “ ordered ” restaurants and bars to close and “ prohibited ” them from operating their dine-in facilities .
Elsewhere , however , he refers to this as a “ request.
” Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the governor concluded his update with this ominous declaration .
“ The Wolf Administration is relying on businesses to act now before the governor or the Secretary of Health finds it necessary to compel closures under the law for the interest of public health , including section 7301 of the Emergency Management Services Code.
” Wow !
The governor assumed emergency powers he does not have and then , after walking them back a bit , boldly doubled down and issued a threat to millions of businesses across Pennsylvania – if they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ close them by force .
Pennsylvania ’ s governor is either ignorant of the law and its limitations on his power or is intentionally disregarding it .
Our governor must be reminded that we Pennsylvanians are governed by law and not men , business owners have the right to make their own decisions about closure in the face of the coronavirus and it ’ s the governor ’ s job to protect and not brazenly override that right .
Unauthorized and confused orders and threats to shut down businesses are only adding to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so many Pennsylvanians .
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

In a virtual news conference on Monday, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced that “effective at midnight all nonessential stores are to close in Pennsylvania as well as bars and restaurants, except for takeout.”
He “anticipates” the closure will last for two weeks, but did not give a hard deadline.
Wolf’s statement sent shockwaves across Pennsylvania, causing consternation among business owners and employees alike. Owners are asking if they must close their businesses. Employees want to know if they can stay home. Which businesses are essential; which are nonessential?
Wait. Let’s back up for a minute. What exactly did the governor say and does he even have the authority to say it?
Wolf said “stores are to close.” That inartful choice of words means certain businesses or “stores,” whatever that means, must close. The words – “are to close” – constitute a command, even if couched in passive-aggressive language.
But does Wolf have the authority to order the closure of private businesses, whether essential or nonessential? In short, no. The governor cited as his authority the Emergency Management Services Code, 35 Pa.C.S. 7101.
But that law does not apply to the coronavirus. The Emergency Code pertains to disasters. It defines them as man-made, such as industrial accidents and oil spills; natural, such as hurricanes and tornadoes; or war-caused. Disease appears nowhere in the definition. There is a law on preventing the spread of disease, the Disease Prevention and Control Law 35 P.S. § 521.19, but that law does not authorize the governor to do what he has done.
Further, the Code does not confer power upon the governor to close businesses even if we stretch the definition of “disaster” beyond its breaking point to include disease.
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During his news conference, the governor added confusion by declaring that his order is not a “mandate,” and that he will not “enforce” it.
But that’s not what he said the day before or even later that day.
A statement from his office dated from Sunday reads, “using his authority under the state’s COVID-19 disaster declaration order, Governor Tom Wolf today ordered all restaurants and bars to close…in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties for 14 days. … Businesses that offer carry-out, delivery, and drive-through food and beverage service may continue to do so, but eating and drinking inside restaurants and bars is temporarily prohibited” (emphasis added).
That statement grounds the governor’s authority in his previous “disaster declaration order;” that’s a reference to his Proclamation of Disaster Emergency of March 6, which itself cites the Emergency Code as his authority, bringing us back to square one.
Further, the Sunday statement used the words “ordered” and “prohibited,” which are clearly commands. It included the threat, “Businesses that do not adhere to this order could face enforcement actions.”
Really? What “enforcement” actions? The governor does not explain.
In truth, the governor has no authority to order the closure of all Pennsylvania businesses, whether essential or nonessential. Not only does the Code not apply to disease; the power to close businesses is not even in that law.
And Wolf’s attempt to base his authority in the Code’s empowerment of the governor to control the “ingress and egress” to a disaster area is just silly. Your local restaurant, bar or barber shop are simply not disaster areas.
Later in the day on Monday, in reaction to the mass confusion caused by his two earlier statements, the governor issued an update. He attempted to further define “essential” and “nonessential,” even though there is no such definition in the law. (The governor is simply making it up). Who knew a “pet store” is an essential business?
To add to the confusion, the updated statement indicates he “ordered” restaurants and bars to close and “prohibited” them from operating their dine-in facilities. Elsewhere, however, he refers to this as a “request.” Is that clear?
To top things off, the governor concluded his update with this ominous declaration.
“The Wolf Administration is relying on businesses to act now before the governor or the Secretary of Health finds it necessary to compel closures under the law for the interest of public health, including section 7301 of the Emergency Management Services Code.”
Wow! The governor assumed emergency powers he does not have and then, after walking them back a bit, boldly doubled down and issued a threat to millions of businesses across Pennsylvania – if they don’t close voluntarily he will close them by force.
Pennsylvania’s governor is either ignorant of the law and its limitations on his power or is intentionally disregarding it.
Our governor must be reminded that we Pennsylvanians are governed by law and not men, business owners have the right to make their own decisions about closure in the face of the coronavirus and it’s the governor’s job to protect and not brazenly override that right.
Unauthorized and confused orders and threats to shut down businesses are only adding to the anxiety and fear being experienced by so many Pennsylvanians.
The views expressed in this opinion article are those of their author and are not necessarily either shared or endorsed by the owners of this website. If you are interested in contributing an Op-Ed to The Western Journal, you can learn about our submission guidelines and process here.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--‘A Disgrace’: Trump Uses News Conference To Slam NYT Over Wildly Misleading Headline

For President Donald Trump , the coronavirus is a two-front-war .
Besides marshaling the federal government to help contain the outbreak , the Trump White House is forced to battle a mainstream media clearly intent on using the biological enemy as a political weapon against an administration it ’ s hated from the beginning .
The president ’ s target was The New York Times , the obscenely biased “ newspaper of record ” that has compiled a record of disgraceful coverage of Trump going back to the 2016 presidential campaign .
According to Fox News , Trump was asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus squared with feuding with Democratic political figures like New York Gov .
Andrew Cuomo , with whom Trump engaged in a Twitter spat Monday .
( The two men had made a public peace on Tuesday . )
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle “ I only do that when I have to respond … and I will continue to if they ’ re not going to play fair , because they have the media on their side , I don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump said , according to Fox .
“ They ’ re not gon na play fair , I ’ m gon na do that.
” Then he called out The Times in particular for its coverage of a Trump teleconference with the nation ’ s governors where Trump pledged federal help for the states but urged them to take steps on their own if it would be faster than federal action .
“ We are backing you in terms of equipment and getting what you need , ” Trump said on a recording @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Also , though , respirators , ventilators , all of the equipment , try getting it yourselves .
We will be backing you , but try getting it yourselves .
Point-of-sale is much better , much more direct if you can get it yourselves.
” That ’ s should be reasonable to anyone serious about covering this crisis .
That doesn ’ t include The New York Times .
The Times headlined its story about Trump ’ s answer with a truncated — and highly misleading — version of his statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : ‘ Try Getting It Yourselves ’ ” To make matters worse , Mara Gay , a member of The Times editorial board who ’ s already proven herself once this year to not be the sharpest knife in the drawer , published a Twitter post Monday stating : “ Trump told the governors they were on their own.
” RELATED : Brian Williams & NYT Editor Tell Viewers Bloomberg Spent $ 1M Per American But It Was Only $ 1.53 It might not make a difference to The New York Times that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump said — the Gray Lady has long since shown its bias .
But it obviously matters a great deal to Trump .
“ If they ’ re going to say things that are false , like the story that was written yesterday … they taped the conference call that I had with the governors .
It was a good call .
It was fine , ” Trump said , according to Fox .
“ I assumed somebody was going to tape it , they handed it to various people , one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The New York Times chose to write totally inaccurately about it .
It was a totally disgraceful thing , it was bad journalism.
” In a tweet , Trump called The Times “ a disgrace to journalism.
” “ Disgraceful ” doesn ’ t begin to cover it .
Nor does “ bad journalism.
” What The Times headline did was undeniably misleading .
While the story itself contained more of Trump ’ s quote , the tone was set by the headline — and anyone who writes for , edits or reads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s tweet wasn ’ t simply misleading , though .
It was an outright falsification of what the president said .
This kind of behavior from the Times is maliciously unprofessional when the country is in a normal state .
To deliberately mislead millions of readers at a time when the country is on edge thanks to an invisible killer stalking vulnerable segments of the population verges on unconscionable .
Since Trump entered the political world , The Times has been waging its own war against him — notably in an August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had no place in covering Trump ’ s career .
But the only real weapon for The Times and any other news outlet is its credibility .
It ’ s a war with Trump that The Times can ’ t win because , with every passing day , The Times is destroying itself .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

For President Donald Trump, the coronavirus is a two-front-war.
Besides marshaling the federal government to help contain the outbreak, the Trump White House is forced to battle a mainstream media clearly intent on using the biological enemy as a political weapon against an administration it’s hated from the beginning.
At a news conference Tuesday, Trump hit back hard.
The president’s target was The New York Times, the obscenely biased “newspaper of record” that has compiled a record of disgraceful coverage of Trump going back to the 2016 presidential campaign.
According to Fox News, Trump was asked how his calls for national unity against the coronavirus squared with feuding with Democratic political figures like New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, with whom Trump engaged in a Twitter spat Monday. (The two men had made a public peace on Tuesday.)
The president’s answer was simple:
“I only do that when I have to respond … and I will continue to if they’re not going to play fair, because they have the media on their side, I don’t. I just have me,” Trump said, according to Fox. “They’re not gonna play fair, I’m gonna do that.”
Then he called out The Times in particular for its coverage of a Trump teleconference with the nation’s governors where Trump pledged federal help for the states but urged them to take steps on their own if it would be faster than federal action.
“We are backing you in terms of equipment and getting what you need,” Trump said on a recording of the call obtained by The Times. “Also, though, respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment, try getting it yourselves. We will be backing you, but try getting it yourselves. Point-of-sale is much better, much more direct if you can get it yourselves.”
That’s should be reasonable to anyone serious about covering this crisis. That doesn’t include The New York Times.
The Times headlined its story about Trump’s answer with a truncated — and highly misleading — version of his statement:
“Trump to Governors on Ventilators: ‘Try Getting It Yourselves’”
To make matters worse, Mara Gay, a member of The Times editorial board who’s already proven herself once this year to not be the sharpest knife in the drawer, published a Twitter post Monday stating: “Trump told the governors they were on their own.”
Trump told governors this morning they are on their own:
“Respirators, ventilators, all of the equipment — try getting it yourselves,” Mr. Trump told the governors during the conference call, a recording of which was shared with The New York Times. https://t.co/K0sont7MBc — Mara Gay (@MaraGay) March 16, 2020
It might not make a difference to The New York Times that that’s not at all what Trump said — the Gray Lady has long since shown its bias. But it obviously matters a great deal to Trump.
“If they’re going to say things that are false, like the story that was written yesterday … they taped the conference call that I had with the governors. It was a good call. It was fine,” Trump said, according to Fox.
“I assumed somebody was going to tape it, they handed it to various people, one of them was The New York Times and The New York Times chose to write totally inaccurately about it. It was a totally disgraceful thing, it was bad journalism.”
In a tweet, Trump called The Times “a disgrace to journalism.”
President Trump: “Yesterday, I gave the governors the right to go order [ventilators] directly if they want, if they feel that they can do it faster… that was totally misinterpreted by the New York Times on purpose, unfortunately.”pic.twitter.com/pGCFG2kr6K — Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) March 17, 2020
“Disgraceful” doesn’t begin to cover it. Nor does “bad journalism.” What The Times headline did was undeniably misleading. While the story itself contained more of Trump’s quote, the tone was set by the headline — and anyone who writes for, edits or reads The Times would know it.
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Gay’s tweet wasn’t simply misleading, though. It was an outright falsification of what the president said.
This kind of behavior from the Times is maliciously unprofessional when the country is in a normal state. To deliberately mislead millions of readers at a time when the country is on edge thanks to an invisible killer stalking vulnerable segments of the population verges on unconscionable.
Since Trump entered the political world, The Times has been waging its own war against him — notably in an August 2016 front-page column that declared that objectivity had no place in covering Trump’s career.
But the only real weapon for The Times and any other news outlet is its credibility.
It’s a war with Trump that The Times can’t win because, with every passing day, The Times is destroying itself.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Penguins Leave Habitat & Go Exploring After Aquarium Forced To Shut Down to Visitors

With many places taking preventative measures and shutting down large gatherings of people , it ’ s more than businesses that are affected .
Museums , libraries , zoos , aquariums and other educational spots you might be tempted to visit with your kids while they ’ re out of school have also closed their doors temporarily .
Though in-person visits may be off-limits for the time being , many organizations are finding innovative ways to let people “ visit ” in safer ways — namely , from the comfort of their own homes .
On Friday , the governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mayor of Chicago , Lori Lightfoot , banned gatherings of over 1,000 and strongly discouraged gatherings of over 250 , according to the Chicago Tribune .
On Monday , Pritzker mandated that gatherings of over 50 people be canceled .
The shutdown has affected Shedd Aquarium in Chicago , which plans to be closed until March 29 , but instead of simply accepting the necessity of the empty hallways , they ’ ve decided to use this unique situation to stage a bit of educational fun .
“ Without guests in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how they provide enrichment to animals , ” the aquarium told the Chicago Tribune , “ introducing new experiences , activities , foods and more to keep them active , encourage them to explore , problem-solve and express natural behaviors.
” TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle “ Penguins in the Amazon ?
!
” the aquarium tweeted on March 15 , along with a video of a single penguin checking out the exhibits .
“ Some of the penguins went on a field trip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” they continued .
“ Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising !
The black-barred silver dollars also seemed interested in their unusual visitor.
” Since then , other penguins have joined Wellington in curious and good-natured strolls through the empty aquarium , in what feels a bit like a spin on the popular series of movies featuring nightlife in a museum .
“ The adventure continues !
” the aquarium tweeted the next day .
“ This morning , Edward and Annie explored Shedd ’ s rotunda.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ penguins , which means they are together for nesting season .
Springtime is nesting season for penguins at Shedd , and this year is no different !
” RELATED : Plumber Saves Life of 2-Day-Old Puppy After Pup Slides Down Bathroom Drain One commenter pointed out that this could be a penguin date — but aside from the fact that the videos are adorable , they ’ re educational as well , introducing viewers to the resident penguins and their habits as well as giving people a tour of the aquarium .
They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be giving updates on the exciting nest-building that should be taking place in the near future and promised to provide more entertainment for housebound penguin lovers .
“ Penguins like Edward and Annie will begin to build their nests next week , ” they tweeted .
“ Join us digitally for nesting coverage !
In the meantime , we will be sharing lots of different animal updates ( and yes , Wellington will return ! )
” “ While this may be a strange time for us , these days feel normal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are constantly providing new experiences for the animals to explore and express their natural behaviors with .
Let us know what penguin activities you would like to see !
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

With many places taking preventative measures and shutting down large gatherings of people, it’s more than businesses that are affected. Museums, libraries, zoos, aquariums and other educational spots you might be tempted to visit with your kids while they’re out of school have also closed their doors temporarily.
Though in-person visits may be off-limits for the time being, many organizations are finding innovative ways to let people “visit” in safer ways — namely, from the comfort of their own homes.
On Friday, the governor of Illinois, J.B. Pritzker, and the mayor of Chicago, Lori Lightfoot, banned gatherings of over 1,000 and strongly discouraged gatherings of over 250, according to the Chicago Tribune. On Monday, Pritzker mandated that gatherings of over 50 people be canceled.
The shutdown has affected Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, which plans to be closed until March 29, but instead of simply accepting the necessity of the empty hallways, they’ve decided to use this unique situation to stage a bit of educational fun.
“Without guests in the building, caretakers are getting creative in how they provide enrichment to animals,” the aquarium told the Chicago Tribune, “introducing new experiences, activities, foods and more to keep them active, encourage them to explore, problem-solve and express natural behaviors.”
“Penguins in the Amazon?!” the aquarium tweeted on March 15, along with a video of a single penguin checking out the exhibits.
“Some of the penguins went on a field trip to meet other animals at Shedd,” they continued. “Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising! The black-barred silver dollars also seemed interested in their unusual visitor.”
Penguins in the Amazon?! ?? Some of the penguins went on a field trip to meet other animals at Shedd. Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising! The black-barred silver dollars also seemed interested in their unusual visitor. pic.twitter.com/KgYWsp5VQD — Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 15, 2020
Since then, other penguins have joined Wellington in curious and good-natured strolls through the empty aquarium, in what feels a bit like a spin on the popular series of movies featuring nightlife in a museum.
“The adventure continues!” the aquarium tweeted the next day. “This morning, Edward and Annie explored Shedd’s rotunda.”
“They are a bonded pair of rockhopper penguins, which means they are together for nesting season. Springtime is nesting season for penguins at Shedd, and this year is no different!”
The adventure continues! ??
This morning, Edward and Annie explored Shedd’s rotunda. They are a bonded pair of rockhopper penguins, which means they are together for nesting season. Springtime is nesting season for penguins at Shedd, and this year is no different! (1/3) ? pic.twitter.com/VdxN3oQAfe — Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 16, 2020
One commenter pointed out that this could be a penguin date — but aside from the fact that the videos are adorable, they’re educational as well, introducing viewers to the resident penguins and their habits as well as giving people a tour of the aquarium.
They also let their followers know that they will be giving updates on the exciting nest-building that should be taking place in the near future and promised to provide more entertainment for housebound penguin lovers.
It’s a #StPatricksDay penguin party! ?? While we can’t go out & party, the animals can! Our caretakers are committed to providing enriching activities (like edible shamrocks) for the animals with or without guests here to see it. Check in throughout the day to see more! pic.twitter.com/Xz1bXd2zk0 — Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 17, 2020
“Penguins like Edward and Annie will begin to build their nests next week,” they tweeted. “Join us digitally for nesting coverage! In the meantime, we will be sharing lots of different animal updates (and yes, Wellington will return!)”
“While this may be a strange time for us, these days feel normal for animals at Shedd. Our caregivers are constantly providing new experiences for the animals to explore and express their natural behaviors with. Let us know what penguin activities you would like to see!”
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--NBA Star Kevin Durant, 3 Others Test Positive for Coronavirus

Four Brooklyn Nets players , including Kevin Durant , have tested positive for the new coronavirus , bringing the total to seven known players in the NBA .
The Nets did not name the players Tuesday , but Durant confirmed he was one of them to The Athletic , saying : “ Everyone be careful , take care of yourself and quarantine .
We ’ re going to get through this.
” The Nets announced that one player is exhibiting symptoms , while the other three are asymptomatic .
All four players have been isolated and are under the care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible , ” the Nets said in a statement .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle The Nets added that all players and members of their travel party are being asked to remain isolated and closely monitor their health .
However , the team ’ s ability to get testing that has been unavailable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York Mayor Bill de Blasio .
“ We wish them a speedy recovery .
But , with all due respect , an entire NBA team should NOT get tested for COVID-19 while there are critically ill patients waiting to be tested , ” de Blasio wrote on Twitter .
“ Tests should not be for the wealthy , but for the sick.
” Brooklyn last played on March 10 in Los Angeles , beating the Lakers .
The Nets were then to face the Golden State Warriors two nights later in San @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be played without fans — before the NBA season was suspended after Utah ’ s Rudy Gobert tested positive for the COVID-19 virus .
Jazz teammate Donovan Mitchell and Detroit ’ s Christian Wood are the other players who have tested positive .
The Nets said they are currently notifying anyone who has had known contact with the players , including recent opponents , and working closely with state and local health authorities on reporting .
For most people , the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms , such as fever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Senate Republicans Opposed to Coronavirus Bill : 'Gag and Vote for It Anyway' For some , especially older adults and people with existing health problems , it can cause more severe illness , including pneumonia .
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Four Brooklyn Nets players, including Kevin Durant, have tested positive for the new coronavirus, bringing the total to seven known players in the NBA.
The Nets did not name the players Tuesday, but Durant confirmed he was one of them to The Athletic, saying: “Everyone be careful, take care of yourself and quarantine. We’re going to get through this.”
The Nets announced that one player is exhibiting symptoms, while the other three are asymptomatic.
All four players have been isolated and are under the care of team physicians.
“The health of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organization and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible,” the Nets said in a statement.
The Nets added that all players and members of their travel party are being asked to remain isolated and closely monitor their health.
However, the team’s ability to get testing that has been unavailable to so many others drew criticism from New York Mayor Bill de Blasio.
“We wish them a speedy recovery. But, with all due respect, an entire NBA team should NOT get tested for COVID-19 while there are critically ill patients waiting to be tested,” de Blasio wrote on Twitter.
“Tests should not be for the wealthy, but for the sick.”
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Brooklyn last played on March 10 in Los Angeles, beating the Lakers.
The Nets were then to face the Golden State Warriors two nights later in San Francisco — a game that was to be played without fans — before the NBA season was suspended after Utah’s Rudy Gobert tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
Jazz teammate Donovan Mitchell and Detroit’s Christian Wood are the other players who have tested positive.
The Nets said they are currently notifying anyone who has had known contact with the players, including recent opponents, and working closely with state and local health authorities on reporting.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.
For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The vast majority of people recover from the new virus.
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Patriots Owner Robert Kraft Responds to Tom Brady’s Departure: ‘Not the Way I Wanted It To End’

Patriots owner Robert Kraft expressed surprise and gratitude toward quarterback Tom Brady after the NFL legend informed him he would be calling it a career in New England .
Brady shocked the sports world when he announced Tuesday morning on social media that he would end his two-decade career as a Patriot .
In an interview with NBC Sports Boston on Tuesday , Kraft said he and Brady sat down for a conversation at his home Monday when Brady broke the news that he would finish his storied career in a different place and a different uniform .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kraft said of his relationship with Brady .
“ He ’ s like a family member .
This is very sad because he ’ s like a son to me.
” “ This is not the way I wanted it to end , but in life , people need to be free to realize what ’ s important to them .
I respect him so much .
It was a sad , loving discussion , ” he told NBC .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over as he has for the last 10 years to quietly get things done , ” he said .
When asked if he felt Brady decided to move on over contract issues , Kraft said , “ It ’ s not about that .
… This is big picture .
I just don ’ t think he was going to be happy staying in our system at this point.
” Brady made the shocking announcement Tuesday that he would leave the only team he had ever known to pursue a fresh start at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organization , including Kraft and his family , in an Instagram post .
“ To all my teammates , coaches , executives and staff , Coach Belichick , RKK and the Kraft family and the entire organization … I couldn ’ t be the man I am today without the relationships you have allowed me to build with you , ” Brady wrote .
“ Our team has always set a great standard in pro sports and I know it will continue to do just that , ” he added .
“ Although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I appreciate everything that we have achieved and am grateful for our incredible TEAM accomplishments , ” he added .
“ MA has been my home for twenty years .
It has truly been the happiest two decades I could have envisioned in my life and I have nothing but love and gratitude for my time in New England , ” he wrote .
RELATED : Race To Sign Tom Brady Has 2 Clear Favorites , Several Long-Shot Possibilities “ The support has been overwhelming – I wish every player could experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can ’ t thank you enough for the support of our team .
The packed training camps and sold out stadiums are mostly the victory parades .
I have been so blessed to share them with you all.
” Both Kraft and Patriots head coach Bill Belichick issued statements Tuesday in response to the news .
“ How do I possibly sum up the depth of my gratitude to Tom Brady for what he ’ s given us these past 20 years , or the sadness I feel knowing it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son and I always will .
He has brought so much happiness to me personally and to all of our fans .
I had hoped this day would never come , ” Kraft said .
“ When Tom arrived in New England as an unheralded , sixth-round pick , no one could have imagined the fairytale story that would be written , the records that would be broken or the joy he would bring to an entire region .
He leaves 20 years later as the winningest quarterback in NFL history with six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 17 division championships .
He has been an exemplary teammate and leader .
There simply will never be another Tom Brady , ” he added .
Belichick , who has won six Super Bowls with Brady as his quarterback , thanked the Patriots mainstay for his commitment to the team .
“ Tom was not just a player who bought into our program .
He was one of its original creators .
Tom lived and perpetuated our culture .
On a daily basis , he was a tone setter and a bar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of his first four years on the field and in three of his final six seasons with us , while competing for championships in most every season in between , ” the coach said .
“ Tom and I will always have a great relationship built on love , admiration , respect and appreciation .
Tom ’ s success as a player and his character as a person are exceptional .
Nothing about the end of Tom ’ s Patriots career changes how unfathomably spectacular it was .
With his relentless competitiveness and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adoration and will be celebrated forever .
It has been a privilege to coach Tom Brady for 20 years , ” he added .
Notoriously stoic , Belichick added , “ Sometimes in life , it takes some time to pass before truly appreciating something or someone but that has not been the case with Tom .
He is a special person and the greatest quarterback of all-time.
” Citing an NFL source , ESPN ’ s Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that Brady “ has not made a decision on where he will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have picked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , the Los Angeles Chargers and the Miami Dolphins as the most likely destinations for Brady .
NBC Sports Boston reported Tampa Bay is willing to go “ all-in ” for the quarterback .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Patriots owner Robert Kraft expressed surprise and gratitude toward quarterback Tom Brady after the NFL legend informed him he would be calling it a career in New England.
Brady shocked the sports world when he announced Tuesday morning on social media that he would end his two-decade career as a Patriot.
In an interview with NBC Sports Boston on Tuesday, Kraft said he and Brady sat down for a conversation at his home Monday when Brady broke the news that he would finish his storied career in a different place and a different uniform.
“We love each other very much,” Kraft said of his relationship with Brady. “He’s like a family member. This is very sad because he’s like a son to me.”
“This is not the way I wanted it to end, but in life, people need to be free to realize what’s important to them. I respect him so much. It was a sad, loving discussion,” he told NBC.
“I thought he was coming over as he has for the last 10 years to quietly get things done,” he said.
When asked if he felt Brady decided to move on over contract issues, Kraft said, “It’s not about that. … This is big picture. I just don’t think he was going to be happy staying in our system at this point.”
Brady made the shocking announcement Tuesday that he would leave the only team he had ever known to pursue a fresh start at 42 years old.
He thanked the organization, including Kraft and his family, in an Instagram post.
Were you surprised by Tom Brady's decision to leave the Patriots? Yes No
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“To all my teammates, coaches, executives and staff, Coach Belichick, RKK and the Kraft family and the entire organization … I couldn’t be the man I am today without the relationships you have allowed me to build with you,” Brady wrote.
“Our team has always set a great standard in pro sports and I know it will continue to do just that,” he added. “Although my football journey will take place elsewhere, I appreciate everything that we have achieved and am grateful for our incredible TEAM accomplishments,” he added.
Brady issued a separate statement on social media thanking his fans.
“MA has been my home for twenty years. It has truly been the happiest two decades I could have envisioned in my life and I have nothing but love and gratitude for my time in New England,” he wrote.
“The support has been overwhelming – I wish every player could experience it,” Brady said. “I can’t thank you enough for the support of our team. The packed training camps and sold out stadiums are mostly the victory parades. I have been so blessed to share them with you all.”
Both Kraft and Patriots head coach Bill Belichick issued statements Tuesday in response to the news.
“How do I possibly sum up the depth of my gratitude to Tom Brady for what he’s given us these past 20 years, or the sadness I feel knowing it’s ending? I love Tom like a son and I always will. He has brought so much happiness to me personally and to all of our fans. I had hoped this day would never come,” Kraft said.
“When Tom arrived in New England as an unheralded, sixth-round pick, no one could have imagined the fairytale story that would be written, the records that would be broken or the joy he would bring to an entire region. He leaves 20 years later as the winningest quarterback in NFL history with six Super Bowl victories, nine AFC titles and 17 division championships. He has been an exemplary teammate and leader. There simply will never be another Tom Brady,” he added.
Statements from #Patriots Chairman and CEO Robert Kraft and Head Coach Bill Belichick on Tom Brady’s Patriots career: https://t.co/DFmmbzAIdo pic.twitter.com/flVpDFB4HJ — New England Patriots (@Patriots) March 17, 2020
Belichick, who has won six Super Bowls with Brady as his quarterback, thanked the Patriots mainstay for his commitment to the team.
“Tom was not just a player who bought into our program. He was one of its original creators. Tom lived and perpetuated our culture. On a daily basis, he was a tone setter and a bar raiser. He won championships in three of his first four years on the field and in three of his final six seasons with us, while competing for championships in most every season in between,” the coach said.
“Tom and I will always have a great relationship built on love, admiration, respect and appreciation. Tom’s success as a player and his character as a person are exceptional. Nothing about the end of Tom’s Patriots career changes how unfathomably spectacular it was. With his relentless competitiveness and longevity, he earned everyone’s adoration and will be celebrated forever. It has been a privilege to coach Tom Brady for 20 years,” he added.
Notoriously stoic, Belichick added, “Sometimes in life, it takes some time to pass before truly appreciating something or someone but that has not been the case with Tom. He is a special person and the greatest quarterback of all-time.”
Citing an NFL source, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Tuesday that Brady “has not made a decision on where he will play next season.”
Despite today’s proclamation that he would not be returning to New England, Tom Brady has not made a decision on where he will play next season and he will be exploring his options, per a league source. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 17, 2020
Las Vegas oddsmakers have picked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Los Angeles Chargers and the Miami Dolphins as the most likely destinations for Brady.
The TB12 era in New England is over ? Where will Brady play next? pic.twitter.com/q6F3rAGPYO — B/R Betting (@br_betting) March 17, 2020
NBC Sports Boston reported Tampa Bay is willing to go “all-in” for the quarterback.
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westernjournal--2020-03-17--Texas Activates National Guard for First Time Since 2017

Texas Gov .
Greg Abbott announced Tuesday that he is activating the Texas National Guard in response to the COVID-19 outbreak .
While there is currently not a need to deploy them , the members of the guard will be standing ready , The Texas Tribune reported .
“ By activating the Texas National Guard , we are ensuring Texas is prepared as we continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 , ” Abbot said in a statement .
“ I am grateful to the men and women of the National Guard for their dedication to serving their fellow Texans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is a precautionary measure to make sure the Texas National Guard has the capability to serve at a moment ’ s notice where they are needed most.
” First responders and health care workers will not be included in this activation .
TRENDING : Dick Morris : A New Donald Trump Is Emerging in Coronavirus Battle The Texas National Guard was last activated in 2017 during Hurricane Harvey .
There were 64 cases of coronavirus across 19 counties as of Wednesday , and a man in his 90s became the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to KVUE .
As of Tuesday , 1,264 Texans had been tested for COVID-19 and , after receiving new testing kits this week , the governor expects the state to test 10,000 people every week .
“ This week , Texas will be receiving 15,000 test kits from FEMA alone .
Testing will be conducted in part by FEMA , in part by hospitals , in part by public health authorities , in part by these private ” operators , Abbott said .
Four days before the national guard activation , Gov .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas .
“ We want to make sure that we do all we can to prevent this vulnerable senior population or others in hospital from being contracted with COVID-19 , ” Abbott said .
The vice chancellor for Disaster and Emergency Services , Nim Kidd , added that it was important for everyone to stay calm .
“ While it may be a new virus , novel if you will , it ’ s the same people , policies and procedures that we have used for decades to serve and protect Texas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outbreak , Texas has transitioned public schools and universities to online learning .
RELATED : McConnell to Senate Republicans Opposed to Coronavirus Bill : 'Gag and Vote for It Anyway' Bars and restaurants in Dallas and Houston have also closed doors to help maintain social distancing , according to The Tribune .
“ I understand the pain this decision will create , ” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said .
“ Dallas has a robust and diverse economy that has grown in recent years .
We have world-class event venues , theaters , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell people from out of town that Dallas is the reigning Bon Appetit Restaurant City of the Year.
” “ We are proud of our service industry and our vibrant , diverse economy .
But this is the time when we have to focus on the greatest asset we have : our people and our communities , ” he added .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced Tuesday that he is activating the Texas National Guard in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
While there is currently not a need to deploy them, the members of the guard will be standing ready, The Texas Tribune reported.
“By activating the Texas National Guard, we are ensuring Texas is prepared as we continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Abbot said in a statement.
“I am grateful to the men and women of the National Guard for their dedication to serving their fellow Texans, and want to assure the public that this is a precautionary measure to make sure the Texas National Guard has the capability to serve at a moment’s notice where they are needed most.”
First responders and health care workers will not be included in this activation.
The Texas National Guard was last activated in 2017 during Hurricane Harvey.
There were 64 cases of coronavirus across 19 counties as of Wednesday, and a man in his 90s became the state’s first coronavirus-related death, according to KVUE.
As of Tuesday, 1,264 Texans had been tested for COVID-19 and, after receiving new testing kits this week, the governor expects the state to test 10,000 people every week.
“This week, Texas will be receiving 15,000 test kits from FEMA alone. Testing will be conducted in part by FEMA, in part by hospitals, in part by public health authorities, in part by these private” operators, Abbott said.
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Four days before the national guard activation, Gov. Abbott declared a state of disaster across Texas.
“We want to make sure that we do all we can to prevent this vulnerable senior population or others in hospital from being contracted with COVID-19,” Abbott said.
The vice chancellor for Disaster and Emergency Services, Nim Kidd, added that it was important for everyone to stay calm.
“While it may be a new virus, novel if you will, it’s the same people, policies and procedures that we have used for decades to serve and protect Texas,” Kidd said.
In response to the outbreak, Texas has transitioned public schools and universities to online learning.
Bars and restaurants in Dallas and Houston have also closed doors to help maintain social distancing, according to The Tribune.
“I understand the pain this decision will create,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said.
“Dallas has a robust and diverse economy that has grown in recent years. We have world-class event venues, theaters, and entertainment options. I love to tell people from out of town that Dallas is the reigning Bon Appetit Restaurant City of the Year.”
“We are proud of our service industry and our vibrant, diverse economy. But this is the time when we have to focus on the greatest asset we have: our people and our communities,” he added.
UPDATE, March 18, 2020: When originally published, this article’s headline referenced the last time the Texas National Guard had been deployed as reported by The Texas Tribune. The Tribune has since corrected its reference to when the National Guard was last deployed, and we have updated our headline to remove the incorrect information.
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