skynewsus--2020-04-21--Stars pay tribute to photographer Peter Beard found dead in woods

Stars are paying tribute to `` visionary artist '' Peter Beard who was found dead in woods near his cliff-side home on Sunday .
The celebrated wildlife photographer , who had developed dementia in recent years and had at least one stroke , was 82 .
His body was discovered by a hunter in a remote wooded area of a state park in Long Island , east of New York City , weeks after his family reported him missing on 31 March .
`` He died where he lived : in nature , '' his family said in a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night .
The cause of death has not been determined but neither foul play nor suicide is suspected .
Beard was renowned for his daring photos of African wildlife during the decades he lived there , and his journals that have often integrated his photographs have been widely shown and published since the 1960s .
His best-known work was The End of Game published in 1965 , which documented the beauty and romance of Africa and the tragedy of its endangered wildlife , in particular the elephant .
Stories about his personal life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work at times , and he had well-documented romances with many of the women he photographed for magazine fashion shoots , including Candice Bergen and Lee Radziwill - the sister of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis , according to the New York Times .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He was also a regular at former nightspot Studio 54 in New York and mixed with many figures of the Swinging Sixties including Andy Warhol , Truman Capote , Salvador Dali and the Rolling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cheryl Tiegs for two years in the 80s and discovered David Bowie 's wife Iman on the streets of Nairobi .
Sir Mick Jagger paid tribute to his friend in an Instagram post , writing : `` Sad to hear my dear friend Peter Beard has died , he was a visionary artist and photographer , who was n't afraid to take risks .
My thoughts are with his wife Nejma and daughter Zara . ''
Musician Nile Rodgers described Beard as `` one of a kind , a lovely soul and an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Duran Duran keyboardist Nick Rhodes said Beard `` seized every moment and devoured it with intense joy '' , adding : `` His energy and profound belief in natural beauty and art was an inspiration . ''
Born into a wealthy family in Manhattan in 1938 , Beard graduated in 1961 from Yale , where he studied with the artist Josef Albers and art historian Vincent Scully .
He travelled to Denmark after graduating and met and photographed Karen Blixen , who had written the memoir Out of Africa under the pen name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife Nejma Beard and daughter Zara .

Stars are paying tribute to "visionary artist" Peter Beard who was found dead in woods near his cliff-side home on Sunday.
The celebrated wildlife photographer, who had developed dementia in recent years and had at least one stroke, was 82.
His body was discovered by a hunter in a remote wooded area of a state park in Long Island, east of New York City, weeks after his family reported him missing on 31 March.
Image: Peter Beard and Lou Reed in 2006
Image: The photographer on his 65th birthday at Cipriani, New York, in 2003
"He died where he lived: in nature," his family said in a statement posted on Beard's website on Sunday night.
The cause of death has not been determined but neither foul play nor suicide is suspected.
Beard was renowned for his daring photos of African wildlife during the decades he lived there, and his journals that have often integrated his photographs have been widely shown and published since the 1960s.
His best-known work was The End of Game published in 1965, which documented the beauty and romance of Africa and the tragedy of its endangered wildlife, in particular the elephant.
Image: Peter Beard and former wife Cheryl Tiegs (second left) with Fleetwood Mac at Studio 54, New York
Image: Peter Beard (C) and models at Studio 54 in 1978
Stories about his personal life took precedence in the media over his work at times, and he had well-documented romances with many of the women he photographed for magazine fashion shoots, including Candice Bergen and Lee Radziwill - the sister of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, according to the New York Times.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Advertisement
He was also a regular at former nightspot Studio 54 in New York and mixed with many figures of the Swinging Sixties including Andy Warhol, Truman Capote, Salvador Dali and the Rolling Stones.
Beard was married to supermodel Cheryl Tiegs for two years in the 80s and discovered David Bowie's wife Iman on the streets of Nairobi.
Image: Cheryl Tiegs and Peter Beard in 1978. Pic: Bei/Shutterstock
Sir Mick Jagger paid tribute to his friend in an Instagram post, writing: "Sad to hear my dear friend Peter Beard has died, he was a visionary artist and photographer, who wasn't afraid to take risks. My thoughts are with his wife Nejma and daughter Zara."
Musician Nile Rodgers described Beard as "one of a kind, a lovely soul and an artist of the highest order".
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Duran Duran keyboardist Nick Rhodes said Beard "seized every moment and devoured it with intense joy", adding: "His energy and profound belief in natural beauty and art was an inspiration."
Born into a wealthy family in Manhattan in 1938, Beard graduated in 1961 from Yale, where he studied with the artist Josef Albers and art historian Vincent Scully.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
He travelled to Denmark after graduating and met and photographed Karen Blixen, who had written the memoir Out of Africa under the pen name Isak Dinesen.
Beard is survived by his wife Nejma Beard and daughter Zara.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--China calls for 'solidarity' as Missouri sues over coronavirus

The US state of Missouri is suing China for inflicting `` enormous death , suffering and economic losses '' on the world .
Around 200 people have died from coronavirus in the Midwestern state , which is the first to sue the Chinese government over its handling of the outbreak .
However , China has called for solidarity and co-operation , saying it is not the time for `` finger-pointing '' .
The remarks were made by Consul-General Huang Ping as Beijing 's diplomats in New York handed over a donation of medical supplies to the city .
New York @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus with over 250,000 people testing positive and nearly 20,000 deaths .
Mr Huang said , in an online ceremony , that his president Xi Jinping and US counterpart Donald Trump `` called for anti-epidemic co-operation between our two nations and the world '' in their last phone call on 17 March .
He added : `` As the two biggest economies in the world , China and the United States need to lead the effort to fighting the coronavirus .
`` This is not the time for finger-pointing .
This is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mutual support . ''
The lawsuit , filed in federal court by the state 's top lawyer , alleges Chinese officials are `` responsible for the enormous death , suffering , and economic losses they inflicted on the world , including Missourians '' .
After weeks of elaborate praise of Mr Xi 's performance in the pandemic , Mr Trump has turned to blaming China and halting US contributions to the World Health Organisation , accusing it of parroting misinformation from Beijing .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spreaker China 's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun stressed the importance of multilateralism , saying `` we live in one world '' and COVID-19 `` knows no borders '' .
He said : `` We need to support the United Nations and the WHO in playing a leading and co-ordinating role in defeating COVID-19 , the common enemy of all mankind .
`` We should stand firm against the politicisation of the pandemic and remove all obstacles which hinder our co-operation . ''
Mr Huang said the American people helped China `` without hesitation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and its consulate and UN mission have donated 25,000 N95 masks , 2,000 protective suits , and 75,000 pairs of medical gloves , which reached New York last weekend .
Penny Abeywardena , New York City 's commissioner for international affairs , thanked China for its `` extremely generous donation '' , adding : `` It is what our health care workers need and we are absolutely grateful that you are in this fight with us . ''
After nearly two weeks of negotiations and deadlock , a near $ 500bn ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the US Senate on Tuesday , after Congress and the White House reached a deal to replenish a small business payroll fund and provided new money for hospitals and testing .
The package now goes to the House of Representatives .
Passage was swift and unanimous , despite opposition from conservative Republicans , and President Donald Trump tweeted his support , pledging to sign it into law .
`` The Senate is continuing to stand by the American people , '' said Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell .

The US state of Missouri is suing China for inflicting "enormous death, suffering and economic losses" on the world.
Around 200 people have died from coronavirus in the Midwestern state, which is the first to sue the Chinese government over its handling of the outbreak.
However, China has called for solidarity and co-operation, saying it is not the time for "finger-pointing".
The remarks were made by Consul-General Huang Ping as Beijing's diplomats in New York handed over a donation of medical supplies to the city.
New York state has become a global hotspot for coronavirus with over 250,000 people testing positive and nearly 20,000 deaths.
Image: There is a growing national movement against stay-at-home orders designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus in the US
Mr Huang said, in an online ceremony, that his president Xi Jinping and US counterpart Donald Trump "called for anti-epidemic co-operation between our two nations and the world" in their last phone call on 17 March.
He added: "As the two biggest economies in the world, China and the United States need to lead the effort to fighting the coronavirus.
"This is not the time for finger-pointing. This is the time for solidarity, collaboration, co-operation and mutual support."
The lawsuit, filed in federal court by the state's top lawyer, alleges Chinese officials are "responsible for the enormous death, suffering, and economic losses they inflicted on the world, including Missourians".
Advertisement
After weeks of elaborate praise of Mr Xi's performance in the pandemic, Mr Trump has turned to blaming China and halting US contributions to the World Health Organisation, accusing it of parroting misinformation from Beijing.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
China's UN Ambassador Zhang Jun stressed the importance of multilateralism, saying "we live in one world" and COVID-19 "knows no borders".
He said: "We need to support the United Nations and the WHO in playing a leading and co-ordinating role in defeating COVID-19, the common enemy of all mankind.
Image: Fire Department of New York medical staff attend to a patient with difficulty breathing outside an apartment
"We should stand firm against the politicisation of the pandemic and remove all obstacles which hinder our co-operation."
Mr Huang said the American people helped China "without hesitation" when it was in great difficulty, and its consulate and UN mission have donated 25,000 N95 masks, 2,000 protective suits, and 75,000 pairs of medical gloves, which reached New York last weekend.
Penny Abeywardena, New York City's commissioner for international affairs, thanked China for its "extremely generous donation", adding: "It is what our health care workers need and we are absolutely grateful that you are in this fight with us."
After nearly two weeks of negotiations and deadlock, a near $500bn (£403bn) coronavirus aid package was approved by the US Senate on Tuesday, after Congress and the White House reached a deal to replenish a small business payroll fund and provided new money for hospitals and testing.
Image: A man crosses the street at a nearly empty Time Square on April 09, 2020 in New York City.
The package now goes to the House of Representatives.
Passage was swift and unanimous, despite opposition from conservative Republicans, and President Donald Trump tweeted his support, pledging to sign it into law.
"The Senate is continuing to stand by the American people," said Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--'We must get this ironed out': Trump meets Cuomo for 'honest' talks on handling of pandemic

The US president has met the governor of New York after weeks of disagreements over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic .
Donald Trump hosted Andrew Cuomo at the White House on Tuesday for discussions described by Mr Cuomo as `` honest and open '' .
Mr Cuomo told MSNBC : `` I wanted to have a face-to-face conversation , particularly on testing .
`` We have to get this ironed out - this is a very big issue . ''
New York has reported 257,000 cases of COVID-19 and nearly 20,000 deaths - almost half of the US total @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nationwide , with more than 820,000 people confirmed as having the virus .
Mr Trump described the meeting as `` productive '' , also agreeing the federal government would help New York get what it needs to double its testing for the virus .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker On Tuesday , the Senate also approved $ 484bn ( £393bn ) of relief for the economy and hospitals aimed at helping them survive the coronavirus crisis .
Mr Cuomo said this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are `` in desperate shape '' .
He added : `` The president seemed very open and understanding of that and said the next piece of legislation that passes he 's going to be open to that . ''
Meanwhile , more states are planning to ease restrictions so people can return to work and economies can begin to recover .
Georgia is one of half a dozen , mostly southern states , that are reopening for business .
Gyms and hair salons are among the businesses that will reopen in the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following next week .
The move comes despite fears that reopening too early could spark a second wave of coronavirus infections .
Centers for Disease Control director Robert Redfield told the Washington Post : `` There 's a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through . ''
New Jersey , Pennsylvania and Michigan have all reported their highest single-day death tolls - more than 800 in total , while the governor of California , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is too soon to weaken restrictions there .
Experts have said the the US should be testing three million people per week for a good idea of how far the virus has spread .
However , states have only managed a third of this in the past week , according to The COVID Tracking Project .
President Trump has also revised his promise to temporarily suspend immigration to put `` unemployed Americans first in line for jobs '' .
The ban , expected to be approved on Wednesday , will last 60 days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cards '' for permanent residency .
It would not affect people coming to the US on a temporary basis .
Around 462,000 immigrant visas were issued in the 2019 fiscal year but , at a time of flight restrictions and border closures around the world , immigration is effectively frozen anyway .

The US president has met the governor of New York after weeks of disagreements over the handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
Donald Trump hosted Andrew Cuomo at the White House on Tuesday for discussions described by Mr Cuomo as "honest and open".
Mr Cuomo told MSNBC: "I wanted to have a face-to-face conversation, particularly on testing.
"We have to get this ironed out - this is a very big issue."
New York has reported 257,000 cases of COVID-19 and nearly 20,000 deaths - almost half of the US total.
More than 45,000 people have died nationwide, with more than 820,000 people confirmed as having the virus.
Mr Trump described the meeting as "productive", also agreeing the federal government would help New York get what it needs to double its testing for the virus.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
On Tuesday, the Senate also approved $484bn (£393bn) of relief for the economy and hospitals aimed at helping them survive the coronavirus crisis.
Advertisement
Mr Cuomo said this would not help the states, which are "in desperate shape".
He added: "The president seemed very open and understanding of that and said the next piece of legislation that passes he's going to be open to that."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 17 April: New York governor blasts Trump over funding
Meanwhile, more states are planning to ease restrictions so people can return to work and economies can begin to recover.
Georgia is one of half a dozen, mostly southern states, that are reopening for business.
Gyms and hair salons are among the businesses that will reopen in the state on Friday, with cinemas and restaurants following next week.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds of people gather to protest lockdown in Minnesota
The move comes despite fears that reopening too early could spark a second wave of coronavirus infections.
Centers for Disease Control director Robert Redfield told the Washington Post: "There's a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through."
New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan have all reported their highest single-day death tolls - more than 800 in total, while the governor of California, the most populous state, has said it is too soon to weaken restrictions there.
Experts have said the the US should be testing three million people per week for a good idea of how far the virus has spread.
However, states have only managed a third of this in the past week, according to The COVID Tracking Project.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 'We're past the peak and starting life again'
President Trump has also revised his promise to temporarily suspend immigration to put "unemployed Americans first in line for jobs".
The ban, expected to be approved on Wednesday, will last 60 days and apply to those seeking "green cards" for permanent residency.
It would not affect people coming to the US on a temporary basis.
Around 462,000 immigrant visas were issued in the 2019 fiscal year but, at a time of flight restrictions and border closures around the world, immigration is effectively frozen anyway.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--Jennifer Aniston and Friends offer fans the chance to join reunion

It 's been a long time coming , but now six lucky fans will get the chance to join the Friends reunion in the flesh .
Jennifer Aniston , Courteney Cox , Lisa Kudrow , David Schwimmer , Matt Le Blanc and Matthew Perry are offering up the opportunity to join them for their reunion special by donating to the US coronavirus appeal , the All In Challenge .
One winner , plus five of their friends , will get to join the six Friends for the taping the new HBO Max show at Stage 24 , in Burbank , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the audience '' , the winners will also have the chance to `` sip a cup of coffee '' with the stars in Central Perk ( the sitcom 's famous cafe ) and `` get the Friends VIP treatment on the Warner Bros studio tour '' .
Those donating to the coronavirus fund will be entered into a prize draw to be in with the chance of winning the money-can't-buy experience , which will take place once social distancing measures are lifted .
Sharing the news , Aniston wrote : `` Ca n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when this is all over .
Until then , keep Facetiming , calling , DMing , and texting your friends and family .
We got ta stay connected . ''
In a nod to the time she accidentally gave away one of her computer passwords via an Instagram post , Kudrow shared a photo of the competition announcement , along with a Post It note which read : `` New password : All In 2020 '' .
Schwimmer wrote : `` Some of you may have heard about a reunion special I 'm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for HBO Max… Wan na come ? ''
It 's 15 years since the much-loved sitcom came to an end , during which time there has been much speculation over a possible reunion .
While not a reboot , this `` unscripted special '' promises fans : `` You 'll get to see us together again for the first time in ages , as we reminisce about the show and celebrate all the fun we had '' .
The reunion had been due to film over two days in March but was delayed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are executive producers on the special and it is reported that each will earn between $ 2.5m to $ 3m ( £2m to £2.4m ) .
Other celebrities offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the All In Challenge include Leonardo DiCaprio , Ellen DeGeneres and Justin Bieber .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The charity 's founder Michael Rubin , co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball franchise , says his inspiration was to feed as many people across America as possible , at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sports and entertainment world together .
The All In Challenge aims to raise $ 100m ( £80m ) for four US charities : Feeding America , Meals On Wheels , World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry .

It's been a long time coming, but now six lucky fans will get the chance to join the Friends reunion in the flesh.
Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, Matt Le Blanc and Matthew Perry are offering up the opportunity to join them for their reunion special by donating to the US coronavirus appeal, the All In Challenge.
Image: Fans will get the chance to sip coffee in famous Central Perk
One winner, plus five of their friends, will get to join the six Friends for the taping the new HBO Max show at Stage 24, in Burbank, California.
As "personal guests in the audience", the winners will also have the chance to "sip a cup of coffee" with the stars in Central Perk (the sitcom's famous cafe) and "get the Friends VIP treatment on the Warner Bros studio tour".
Those donating to the coronavirus fund will be entered into a prize draw to be in with the chance of winning the money-can't-buy experience, which will take place once social distancing measures are lifted.
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Sharing the news, Aniston wrote: "Can't wait to meet and hug you guys when this is all over. Until then, keep Facetiming, calling, DMing, and texting your friends and family. We gotta stay connected."
In a nod to the time she accidentally gave away one of her computer passwords via an Instagram post, Kudrow shared a photo of the competition announcement, along with a Post It note which read: "New password: All In 2020".
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Schwimmer wrote: "Some of you may have heard about a reunion special I'm going to be doing with my FRIENDS for HBO Max… Wanna come?"
It's 15 years since the much-loved sitcom came to an end, during which time there has been much speculation over a possible reunion.
Advertisement
While not a reboot, this "unscripted special" promises fans: "You'll get to see us together again for the first time in ages, as we reminisce about the show and celebrate all the fun we had".
The reunion had been due to film over two days in March but was delayed due to COVID-19.
All six stars are executive producers on the special and it is reported that each will earn between $2.5m to $3m (£2m to £2.4m).
Other celebrities offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences for the All In Challenge include Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen DeGeneres and Justin Bieber.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The charity's founder Michael Rubin, co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers basketball franchise, says his inspiration was to feed as many people across America as possible, at the same time as bringing people from the sports and entertainment world together.
The All In Challenge aims to raise $100m (£80m) for four US charities: Feeding America, Meals On Wheels, World Central Kitchen and No Kid Hungry.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--Gun-packing Virginians want lockdown axed - but they have to bite the bullet

Under blue Virginian skies it was like stepping back into pre coronavirus days .
People gathered around the majestic state capitol building - greeting each other with handshakes and back slapping hugs that reveal the guns they 're carrying in belt holsters .
Some are in army fatigues proudly carrying semi-automatic rifles .
As they gathered closely it was like social distancing never happened .
They are protesters who want to voice their opposition to Virginia 's stay at home orders .
The restrictions designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 need to end , they say .
Some congregate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the capitol building honking horns from cars emblazoned with banners that read `` We Are All Essential Workers '' and `` Virginia Loves Workers '' .
Other messages allude to perennial American issues like abortion and gun rights .
This had the feel of many protests I 've been to in the past .
It 's the same sentiment from people who are always ready to express their distrust in authority and what they see as government overreach .
Most people here are sceptical , if not outright dismissive , of the scientific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I put it to one man that if asymptomatic people return to work that could increase infection and death in others .
He tells me it was an `` interesting '' , `` mysterious '' hypothesis .
For many it 's all just more lies from the media - designed to strip away people 's rights .
There were perhaps hundreds in attendance while millions stayed at home .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The polls say most Americans support restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's the virus that will determine when normality can resume .
There are of course genuine concerns about job losses and economic recession .
Any organic element to the protests is being seized upon by conservative groups - using their nationwide networks to co-ordinate gatherings - making the sentiment seem bigger than polls suggest .
They are being amplified by right wing media and the president himself .
After Fox News aired a protest , Donald Trump tweeted his support - echoing the `` Liberate '' states message - just a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cautious path states should take before reopening .
The experts say Virginia is in no position to do what these people are asking for while cases and deaths keep rising .
Like so much in America , coronavirus is now a partisan issue with more Democrats than Republicans feeling extremely concerned about it .
But this virus does not discriminate .
With well over 40,000 deaths and numbers still rising - these people are going to have to wait .

Under blue Virginian skies it was like stepping back into pre coronavirus days.
People gathered around the majestic state capitol building - greeting each other with handshakes and back slapping hugs that reveal the guns they're carrying in belt holsters.
Some are in army fatigues proudly carrying semi-automatic rifles.
As they gathered closely it was like social distancing never happened. They are protesters who want to voice their opposition to Virginia's stay at home orders.
The restrictions designed to slow the spread of COVID-19 need to end, they say.
Image: Many believe the dangers posed by coronavirus are just more lies from the media
Some congregate on the streets - others drive around the capitol building honking horns from cars emblazoned with banners that read "We Are All Essential Workers" and "Virginia Loves Workers".
Other messages allude to perennial American issues like abortion and gun rights.
This had the feel of many protests I've been to in the past.
It's the same sentiment from people who are always ready to express their distrust in authority and what they see as government overreach.
Advertisement
Most people here are sceptical, if not outright dismissive, of the scientific advice being given by medical experts.
I put it to one man that if asymptomatic people return to work that could increase infection and death in others.
He tells me it was an "interesting", "mysterious" hypothesis.
For many it's all just more lies from the media - designed to strip away people's rights.
There were perhaps hundreds in attendance while millions stayed at home.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The polls say most Americans support restrictions staying in place. Most people know it's the virus that will determine when normality can resume.
There are of course genuine concerns about job losses and economic recession. Any organic element to the protests is being seized upon by conservative groups - using their nationwide networks to co-ordinate gatherings - making the sentiment seem bigger than polls suggest.
They are being amplified by right wing media and the president himself.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds of people protest against the lockdown in Minnesota
After Fox News aired a protest, Donald Trump tweeted his support - echoing the "Liberate" states message - just a day after he issued measured guidelines about the cautious path states should take before reopening.
The experts say Virginia is in no position to do what these people are asking for while cases and deaths keep rising.
Like so much in America, coronavirus is now a partisan issue with more Democrats than Republicans feeling extremely concerned about it.
But this virus does not discriminate. With well over 40,000 deaths and numbers still rising - these people are going to have to wait.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--Delta rules out cash lifeline for struggling Virgin Atlantic

Sir Richard Branson 's co-investor in Virgin Atlantic has ruled out injecting cash into the struggling airline - and indicated he expects it to go into administration .
Ed Bastian , chief executive of Delta Air Lines , said his focus was currently on protecting his own business as the aviation industry grapples with the worst trading environment in living memory .
Delta owns 49 % of Virgin Atlantic while Sir Richard 's Virgin Group owns the other 51 % .
Sir Richard published an open letter to Virgin Atlantic employees on Tuesday in which he warned that , without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 36-year old airline would collapse .
Some industry followers have speculated that , following its recent successful efforts to raise cash and cut costs , Delta might be able to lend support to the carrier .
Delta has halved its operating costs during the last 30 days and has been awarded a $ 5.4bn grant by the US government to cover its wages bill during April , May and June .
It is also applying for a further $ 4.6bn in US government loans .
But Mr Bastian told CNBC today that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Virgin Atlantic .
He said this was partly because under EU rules , by which British carriers must still abide , EU-based carriers must be majority-owned by EU-based owners .
He told interviewer Phil Lebeau : `` We are not in a position to invest any more in Virgin Atlantic , we are already at the ownership cap of 49 % and candidly , with our crisis , with the cash we need to protect our own business , that 's what our focus is .
`` I trust Virgin will work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Richard . ''
Mr Bastian insisted this would not be the end of the Virgin brand in aviation .
He went on : `` If they are required to go through an administration process in the UK , I am confident they [ Virgin Atlantic ] could re-emerge .
`` There 's a need for the Virgin brand in the UK market place and I 'm confident once we… get to a point where people will feel safe to travel again , the Virgin brand will be strong once more .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get through that . ''
His comments come a day after Virgin Australia , which is 10 % owned by Sir Richard , went into administration .
It has been reported that it proposed nine different bail-out packages to the Australian government before doing so .
The Trump administration last week signed off on an aid package for US carriers that is expected to come to around $ 50bn , of which around $ 17.5bn would be in grants , with the rest in loans .
The UK government said last month @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' to individual carriers in this country and stressed that this would only be as a `` last resort '' once all other options had been exhausted .
But the Financial Times reported at the weekend that Virgin Atlantic 's proposal for a £500m package of commercial loans and guarantees had `` failed to impress '' the government .
It quoted one source as saying the airline had not done enough to show it had explored other options to bolster cash before asking for state aid .
In his letter to employees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the airline was not asking for anything its competitors had not .
He wrote : `` We will do everything we can to keep the airline going - but we will need government support to achieve that in the face of the severe uncertainty surrounding travel today and not knowing how long the planes will be grounded for .
`` This would be in the form of a commercial loan - it would n't be free money and the airline would pay it back ( as easyJet will do for the £600m loan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Easyjet announced on 6 April that it had raised £600m by selling commercial paper which has been bought by the Bank of England under the Covid Corporate Financing Facility ( CCFF ) - the scheme launched last month by Rishi Sunak , the Chancellor , to support larger companies during the current crisis .
Another short-haul carrier , the FTSE 250-listed Wizz Air , announced on Tuesday that it had been told it would be eligible to raise money under the scheme - although it has not yet indicated that it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the owner of Virgin Atlantic 's bitter rival British Airways , is expected by industry analysts to be highly unlikely to seek any government support .
It announced three weeks ago that it would not be paying its latest dividend , saving it £320m , while it has also been drawing on existing bank facilities and exploring other ways in which it can boost its liquidity position .
Willie Walsh , IAG 's chief executive , said last month it was not for taxpayers to support airlines when the shareholders of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Bastian was speaking as Delta reported a net loss of $ 534m for the first three months of the year .
That compared with a net profit of $ 730m during the same period last year .
Delta , the first of the major US carriers to report financial results for the first quarter of the year , has grounded more than 650 aircraft .
Mr Bastian said that , as of the end of March , the airline had been burning through $ 100m on a daily basis .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures and its efforts to raise capital , including support from the US government , that sum would have halved by the end of June and could even be reached by May .
The US aviation industry is expected , in total , to report losses of at least $ 2bn for the quarter .
Delta completed its £233m acquisition of a 49 % shareholding in Virgin Atlantic from Singapore Airlines in June 2013 .
Singapore had paid Sir Richard £600.25m for the stake in December 1999 .
A plan that would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stake from Sir Richard , which would have seen him cede control of the airline , was abandoned just before Christmas last year .

Sir Richard Branson's co-investor in Virgin Atlantic has ruled out injecting cash into the struggling airline - and indicated he expects it to go into administration.
Ed Bastian, chief executive of Delta Air Lines, said his focus was currently on protecting his own business as the aviation industry grapples with the worst trading environment in living memory.
Delta owns 49% of Virgin Atlantic while Sir Richard's Virgin Group owns the other 51%.
Sir Richard published an open letter to Virgin Atlantic employees on Tuesday in which he warned that, without financial support from the UK government, the 36-year old airline would collapse.
Some industry followers have speculated that, following its recent successful efforts to raise cash and cut costs, Delta might be able to lend support to the carrier.
Delta has halved its operating costs during the last 30 days and has been awarded a $5.4bn grant by the US government to cover its wages bill during April, May and June.
It is also applying for a further $4.6bn in US government loans.
Image: Delta reported a loss of $534m for the first three months of the year
But Mr Bastian told CNBC today that no money would be finding its way to Virgin Atlantic.
He said this was partly because under EU rules, by which British carriers must still abide, EU-based carriers must be majority-owned by EU-based owners.
Advertisement
He told interviewer Phil Lebeau: "We are not in a position to invest any more in Virgin Atlantic, we are already at the ownership cap of 49% and candidly, with our crisis, with the cash we need to protect our own business, that's what our focus is.
"I trust Virgin will work through its challenges with the government and with Richard."
Mr Bastian insisted this would not be the end of the Virgin brand in aviation.
He went on: "If they are required to go through an administration process in the UK, I am confident they [Virgin Atlantic] could re-emerge.
"There's a need for the Virgin brand in the UK market place and I'm confident once we… get to a point where people will feel safe to travel again, the Virgin brand will be strong once more.
"But it could take a legal process to get through that."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
His comments come a day after Virgin Australia, which is 10% owned by Sir Richard, went into administration.
It has been reported that it proposed nine different bail-out packages to the Australian government before doing so.
The Trump administration last week signed off on an aid package for US carriers that is expected to come to around $50bn, of which around $17.5bn would be in grants, with the rest in loans.
The UK government said last month that it might provide "bespoke support" to individual carriers in this country and stressed that this would only be as a "last resort" once all other options had been exhausted.
But the Financial Times reported at the weekend that Virgin Atlantic's proposal for a £500m package of commercial loans and guarantees had "failed to impress" the government.
It quoted one source as saying the airline had not done enough to show it had explored other options to bolster cash before asking for state aid.
In his letter to employees, Sir Richard sought to make clear that the airline was not asking for anything its competitors had not.
He wrote: "We will do everything we can to keep the airline going - but we will need government support to achieve that in the face of the severe uncertainty surrounding travel today and not knowing how long the planes will be grounded for.
"This would be in the form of a commercial loan - it wouldn't be free money and the airline would pay it back (as easyJet will do for the £600m loan the government recently gave them)."
Image: Easyjet has raised £600m via a Bank of England backed scheme
Easyjet announced on 6 April that it had raised £600m by selling commercial paper which has been bought by the Bank of England under the Covid Corporate Financing Facility (CCFF) - the scheme launched last month by Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, to support larger companies during the current crisis.
Another short-haul carrier, the FTSE 250-listed Wizz Air, announced on Tuesday that it had been told it would be eligible to raise money under the scheme - although it has not yet indicated that it will tap the facility.
International Airlines Group, the owner of Virgin Atlantic's bitter rival British Airways, is expected by industry analysts to be highly unlikely to seek any government support.
It announced three weeks ago that it would not be paying its latest dividend, saving it £320m, while it has also been drawing on existing bank facilities and exploring other ways in which it can boost its liquidity position.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:31 COVID-19 to inflict huge hit on UK economy
Willie Walsh, IAG's chief executive, said last month it was not for taxpayers to support airlines when the shareholders of those airlines were not prepared to do so.
Mr Bastian was speaking as Delta reported a net loss of $534m for the first three months of the year.
That compared with a net profit of $730m during the same period last year.
Delta, the first of the major US carriers to report financial results for the first quarter of the year, has grounded more than 650 aircraft.
Mr Bastian said that, as of the end of March, the airline had been burning through $100m on a daily basis.
But he told CNBC that following cost cutting measures and its efforts to raise capital, including support from the US government, that sum would have halved by the end of June and could even be reached by May.
The US aviation industry is expected, in total, to report losses of at least $2bn for the quarter.
Delta completed its £233m acquisition of a 49% shareholding in Virgin Atlantic from Singapore Airlines in June 2013.
Singapore had paid Sir Richard £600.25m for the stake in December 1999.
A plan that would have seen Air France-KLM acquire a 31% stake from Sir Richard, which would have seen him cede control of the airline, was abandoned just before Christmas last year.


skynewsus--2020-04-22--'I've been holding my tongue': Disney heir criticises company's bonuses

Abigail Disney has hit out at The Walt Disney Company for protecting executive bonuses and dividends , while at the same time laying off nearly half its workforce .
The American filmmaker said she had been `` holding her tongue '' due to the severity of the coronavirus pandemic but felt now was the time to speak out .
Abigail is the granddaughter of Roy Disney , who co-founded The Walt Disney Company with his older brother Walt in 1923 .
Due to the impact of COVID-19 , The Walt Disney Company has furloughed more than 100,000 workers in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The suspensions in Europe , the US and Asia will save the company around $ 500m ( £406m ) a month .
However , incentive schemes of more than $ 1.5bn ( £1.2bn ) will still be given out to company executives .
In a damning chain of messages on her official Twitter page , Abigail said `` the company must do better '' .
The thread of 25 posts began : `` OK , I 've been holding my tongue on the theory that a pandemic is no time to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failing us in a public health sense .
I thought it might be a moment for peace and reconciliation .
But I feel a thread coming on ... . ''
She has previously been critical of the `` insane '' pay and compensation received by ex-Disney chief executive Bob Iger .
In 2018 he was paid $ 65.7m ( £53m ) .
She has also claimed that chief executives are generally `` paid far too much '' .
Her tweets went on : `` Look , dividends are n't ALL bad , given @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rely on them .
But still 80 % of shares are owned by the wealthiest 10 % .
So that excuse only goes so far .
`` But the REAL outrage is , of course , those bonuses .
All 1.5 billion of them .
1.5 BILLION .
That 'd pay for three months ' salary to front line workers . ''
While Abigail does n't have a role at the company , she is an heir to the Disney family fortune .
Calling attention to her connection , she wrote : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and I think that makes me free to say what I believe .
But I am an heir .
And I do carry this name with me everywhere .
And I have a conscience which makes it very difficult for me to sit by when I see abuses taking place with that name attached to them . ''
Other capitalised instructions to the company later in her posts included `` choose to lead '' and `` be decent '' .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new Disney chief executive Bob Chapek have both made salary sacrifices this year amid the COVID-19 crisis .
Mr Iger gave up the remainder of his $ 3m ( £2.4m ) salary for 2020 , and Mr Chapek is set to forgo half his $ 2.5m ( £2m ) base salary .
Abigail - who herself has a net worth of around $ 120m ( £97m ) - referred to the sacrifices as `` a drop in the bucket to these guys '' .
The Disney family is now understood to own just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business .

Abigail Disney has hit out at The Walt Disney Company for protecting executive bonuses and dividends, while at the same time laying off nearly half its workforce.
The American filmmaker said she had been "holding her tongue" due to the severity of the coronavirus pandemic but felt now was the time to speak out.
Image: Abigail Disney calls on the company to 'be decent' and 'choose to lead'
Abigail is the granddaughter of Roy Disney, who co-founded The Walt Disney Company with his older brother Walt in 1923.
Due to the impact of COVID-19, The Walt Disney Company has furloughed more than 100,000 workers in its theme parks and hotels across the world.
The suspensions in Europe, the US and Asia will save the company around $500m (£406m) a month.
Image: The Disney resort in Shanghai has closed due to coronavirus
However, incentive schemes of more than $1.5bn (£1.2bn) will still be given out to company executives.
In a damning chain of messages on her official Twitter page, Abigail said "the company must do better".
The thread of 25 posts began: "OK, I've been holding my tongue on the theory that a pandemic is no time to be calling people out on anything other than failing us in a public health sense. I thought it might be a moment for peace and reconciliation. But I feel a thread coming on...."
She has previously been critical of the "insane" pay and compensation received by ex-Disney chief executive Bob Iger. In 2018 he was paid $65.7m (£53m).
Advertisement
She has also claimed that chief executives are generally "paid far too much".
Image: The Hong Kong Disneyland theme park is also closed
Her tweets went on: "Look, dividends aren't ALL bad, given the number of fixed income folks who rely on them. But still 80% of shares are owned by the wealthiest 10%. So that excuse only goes so far.
"But the REAL outrage is, of course, those bonuses. All 1.5 billion of them. 1.5 BILLION. That'd pay for three months' salary to front line workers."
While Abigail doesn't have a role at the company, she is an heir to the Disney family fortune.
Calling attention to her connection, she wrote: "I'm just a citizen who cares and I think that makes me free to say what I believe. But I am an heir. And I do carry this name with me everywhere. And I have a conscience which makes it very difficult for me to sit by when I see abuses taking place with that name attached to them."
Other capitalised instructions to the company later in her posts included "choose to lead" and "be decent".
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Mr Iger and new Disney chief executive Bob Chapek have both made salary sacrifices this year amid the COVID-19 crisis.
Mr Iger gave up the remainder of his $3m (£2.4m) salary for 2020, and Mr Chapek is set to forgo half his $2.5m (£2m) base salary.
Abigail - who herself has a net worth of around $120m (£97m) - referred to the sacrifices as "a drop in the bucket to these guys".
The Disney family is now understood to own just a small percentage of the previously family-run business.


skynewsus--2020-04-23--Iran hits back after Trump says US will shoot Iranian gunboats 'out of the water'

Iran has hit back after Donald Trump said he had instructed the US Navy to fire on any Iranian ships that harass it at sea .
Tehran responded by saying it will destroy `` any American terrorist force '' if its security is threatened in the Gulf .
It comes as tensions escalate between the two countries again , with Iran 's Republican Guard announcing the launch of the country 's first military satellite .
Mr Trump said on Twitter : `` I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' At a briefing later , he said that he was not changing the military 's rules of engagement , adding : `` We 're covered - we 're covered 100 % '' .
He said : `` We do n't want their gunboats surrounding our boats and travelling around our boats and having a good time .
`` We 're not going to stand for it ... they 'll shoot them out of the water . ''
Responding on state TV , the head of Iran 's elite Revolutionary Guards , Hossein @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ordered our naval forces to destroy any American terrorist force in the Persian Gulf that threatens security of Iran 's military or non-military ships .
`` Security of the Persian Gulf is part of Iran 's strategic priorities . ''
He added : `` I am telling the Americans that we are absolutely determined and serious in defending our national security , our water borders , our shipping safety , and our security forces , and we will respond decisively to any sabotage .
`` Americans have experienced our power in the past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week , the US Navy said 11 Iranian gunboats had behaved in a `` dangerous and harassing '' way towards US vessels in the Persian Gulf .
But Iran blamed the US .
Deputy Secretary of Defence David Norquist told reporters : `` The president issued an important warning to the Iranians , what he was emphasising is all of our ships retain the right of self-defence . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker General Abolfazl Shekarchi , a spokesman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Trump of `` bullying '' and said he should focus on his country 's coronavirus problem .
The US has more than 840,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 , including 3,500 cases within the US military .
Meanwhile , there are fears that Iran 's satellite launch will allow it to develop ballistic missiles capable of threatening the US , although Tehran denies this .
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the launch could be a breach of a United Nations resolution which `` called upon '' Iran to stop working on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He said Iran needed to be `` held accountable for what they have done '' , although some states argued that the language of the resolution did not make Iran 's compliance obligatory .
It comes after a number of recent events have tested relations between the two countries .
On 3 January , the US killed Qassem Soleimani , the head of Iran 's elite Quds Force , in a drone strike in Iraq .
Iran retaliated five days later with a rocket attack on an Iraqi base housing US troops .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the nuclear deal between Iran and other world powers , reimposing sanctions on Iran .

Iran has hit back after Donald Trump said he had instructed the US Navy to fire on any Iranian ships that harass it at sea.
Tehran responded by saying it will destroy "any American terrorist force" if its security is threatened in the Gulf.
It comes as tensions escalate between the two countries again, with Iran's Republican Guard announcing the launch of the country's first military satellite.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Mr Trump said on Twitter: "I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea."
At a briefing later, he said that he was not changing the military's rules of engagement, adding: "We're covered - we're covered 100%".
He said: "We don't want their gunboats surrounding our boats and travelling around our boats and having a good time.
"We're not going to stand for it...they'll shoot them out of the water."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Responding on state TV, the head of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards, Hossein Salami, said: "I have ordered our naval forces to destroy any American terrorist force in the Persian Gulf that threatens security of Iran's military or non-military ships.
Advertisement
"Security of the Persian Gulf is part of Iran's strategic priorities."
He added: "I am telling the Americans that we are absolutely determined and serious in defending our national security, our water borders, our shipping safety, and our security forces, and we will respond decisively to any sabotage.
"Americans have experienced our power in the past and must learn from it."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:33 Iranian boats 'harass' US Navy warships
Last week, the US Navy said 11 Iranian gunboats had behaved in a "dangerous and harassing" way towards US vessels in the Persian Gulf. But Iran blamed the US.
Deputy Secretary of Defence David Norquist told reporters: "The president issued an important warning to the Iranians, what he was emphasising is all of our ships retain the right of self-defence."
General Abolfazl Shekarchi, a spokesman for Iran's armed forces, accused Mr Trump of "bullying" and said he should focus on his country's coronavirus problem.
The US has more than 840,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 3,500 cases within the US military.
Meanwhile, there are fears that Iran's satellite launch will allow it to develop ballistic missiles capable of threatening the US, although Tehran denies this.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:19 Iran says it has launched military satellite
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the launch could be a breach of a United Nations resolution which "called upon" Iran to stop working on missiles designed to carry nuclear weapons.
He said Iran needed to be "held accountable for what they have done", although some states argued that the language of the resolution did not make Iran's compliance obligatory.
It comes after a number of recent events have tested relations between the two countries.
On 3 January, the US killed Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force, in a drone strike in Iraq.
Iran retaliated five days later with a rocket attack on an Iraqi base housing US troops.
In 2018, Mr Trump pulled out of the nuclear deal between Iran and other world powers, reimposing sanctions on Iran.


skynewsus--2020-04-23--More tigers and lions test positive for coronavirus at US zoo

Another seven big cats have been confirmed as having COVID-19 at a zoo in the US .
Four tigers and three African lions have been diagnosed at the Bronx Zoo in New York , according to the Wildlife Conservation Society , which runs the zoo .
The animals were tested after a four-year-old Malayan tiger called Nadia developed a dry cough and loss of appetite in March .
Nadia tested positive on 5 April and all but one of the other cats that tested positive had symptoms at that time .
Samples were tested from Nadia 's nose , throat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anaesthesia , while the other animals were tested using faecal samples .
The zoo said the animals are all doing well , behaving normally and eating well .
Their coughs are also improving .
They added : `` We tested the tigers and lions out of an abundance of caution and will ensure any knowledge we gain about COVID-19 will contribute to the world 's continuing understanding of this novel coronavirus .
`` The testing of these cats was done in veterinary laboratories and resources used did not take from those being used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the zoo 's snow leopards , cheetahs , clouded leopard , Amur leopard , puma or serval are showing any signs of illness . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The zoo said the animals were thought to have been infected by a member of staff who showed no symptoms at the time .
Measures had been put in place to prevent further exposure to the disease , they added .
It comes after two domestic cats became the first pets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
The cats , from different parts of the state , had mild respiratory illness and were expected to fully recover .
Dr Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has said animals and pets can get the coronavirus but there was no evidence they could transmit it to humans .

Another seven big cats have been confirmed as having COVID-19 at a zoo in the US.
Four tigers and three African lions have been diagnosed at the Bronx Zoo in New York, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society, which runs the zoo.
The animals were tested after a four-year-old Malayan tiger called Nadia developed a dry cough and loss of appetite in March.
Nadia tested positive on 5 April and all but one of the other cats that tested positive had symptoms at that time.
Samples were tested from Nadia's nose, throat and respiratory tract while she was under anaesthesia, while the other animals were tested using faecal samples.
The zoo said the animals are all doing well, behaving normally and eating well.
Their coughs are also improving.
They added: "We tested the tigers and lions out of an abundance of caution and will ensure any knowledge we gain about COVID-19 will contribute to the world's continuing understanding of this novel coronavirus.
"The testing of these cats was done in veterinary laboratories and resources used did not take from those being used for human testing.
Advertisement
"None of the zoo's snow leopards, cheetahs, clouded leopard, Amur leopard, puma or serval are showing any signs of illness."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The zoo said the animals were thought to have been infected by a member of staff who showed no symptoms at the time.
Measures had been put in place to prevent further exposure to the disease, they added.
It comes after two domestic cats became the first pets in New York to test positive for the virus.
The cats, from different parts of the state, had mild respiratory illness and were expected to fully recover.
Dr Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has said animals and pets can get the coronavirus but there was no evidence they could transmit it to humans.


skynewsus--2020-04-23--Is it too soon to re-open America?

Is it too soon to re-open America?

Over the past week , protests have begun to spring up across America , demanding that the economy re-opens .
@ @ @ @ @ on by President Trump – but does relaxing social distancing now fit the medical data @ @ @ @ @ States , we take you inside those protests , talking to the people there to @ @ @ @ @ them to show up .
Our team are all back in Washington DC : Amanda @ @ @ @ @ Emily Purser Brown talk though the latest developments on the miracle cure that was n't @ @ @ @ @ going on with President Trump 's latest immigration ban .
: : Listen to Divided @ @ @ @ @ Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker

Over the past week, protests have begun to spring up across America, demanding that the economy re-opens. They have been partly spurred on by President Trump – but does relaxing social distancing now fit the medical data?
This week on Divided States, we take you inside those protests, talking to the people there to find out what's driving them to show up.
Our team are all back in Washington DC: Amanda Walker, Cordelia Lynch and Emily Purser Brown talk though the latest developments on the miracle cure that wasn't, and discuss what's going on with President Trump's latest immigration ban.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker


skynewsus--2020-04-23--Val Kilmer: 'I never wanted to be in Top Gun'

Val Kilmer says he did n't want the Top Gun role that made him famous and was `` tortured '' to audition by his agent .
The 60-year-old star played Tom 'Iceman ' Kazansky in the 1986 film alongside Tom Cruise .
In his memoir , I 'm Your Huckleberry , Kilmer admits : `` I did n't want the part .
I did n't care about the film .
The story did n't interest me .
`` My agent , who also represented Tom Cruise , basically tortured me into at least meeting Tony Scott saying he was one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Kilmer says he even tried to self-sabotage the audition , by `` looking like a fool or the goon '' .
He says : `` I read the lines indifferently and yet , amazingly , I was told I had the part .
I felt more deflated than inflated . ''
It was Kilmer 's third feature-length film role , following after 1984 's Top Secret !
and 1985 's Real Genius .
The film went on to become a worldwide box office hit , making stars of its young cast .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ completely turned all these years later , admitting he begged to be part of the reboot , Top Gun : Maverick .
Despite not being approached for the new film , he took matters into his own hands .
Kilmer says : `` I 'd not only contacted the producers but created heartrending scenes with Iceman .
`` The producers went for it .
Cruise went for it .
Cruise could n't have been cooler . ''
Top Gun : Maverick was due to be released in cinemas in June but following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the screen at the end of the year .
Kilmer 's memoir also details his colourful dating past , going out with Hollywood stars including Cindy Crawford , Angelina Jolie and Carly Simon .
Kilmer , who dated Cher for a year , admits he initially did n't want to meet her as he thought she was a `` less-than-fascinating character out of the gossip rags '' .
However , after getting to know the pop star , he declared her the `` funniest woman I ever met '' .
The pair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kilmer throughout his 2015 throat cancer diagnosis .
The actor was staying at her guesthouse when he realised he was seriously unwell and began `` vomiting blood that covered the bed like a scene out of The Godfather '' .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He says Cher accompanied him in the ambulance and was with him when he underwent his tracheotomy and chemotherapy sessions .
Kilmer , who described his split from actress Daryl Hannah in 2001 as the `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now been single for 15 years .
Val Kilmer 's memoir I 'm Your Huckleberry is out now , and Top Gun : Maverick will be released on 23 December .

Val Kilmer says he didn't want the Top Gun role that made him famous and was "tortured" to audition by his agent.
The 60-year-old star played Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky in the 1986 film alongside Tom Cruise.
Image: Kilmer with Cruise as Pete 'Maverick' Mitchell. Pic: Paramount /Kobal/Shutterstock
In his memoir, I'm Your Huckleberry, Kilmer admits: "I didn't want the part. I didn't care about the film. The story didn't interest me.
"My agent, who also represented Tom Cruise, basically tortured me into at least meeting Tony Scott saying he was one of the hottest directors in town."
Kilmer says he even tried to self-sabotage the audition, by "looking like a fool or the goon".
He says: "I read the lines indifferently and yet, amazingly, I was told I had the part. I felt more deflated than inflated."
It was Kilmer's third feature-length film role, following after 1984's Top Secret! and 1985's Real Genius.
The film went on to become a worldwide box office hit, making stars of its young cast.
However, Kilmer says the tables have completely turned all these years later, admitting he begged to be part of the reboot, Top Gun: Maverick.
Advertisement
Despite not being approached for the new film, he took matters into his own hands.
Image: Kilmer had a tracheotomy in 2015 to treat throat cancer
Kilmer says: "I'd not only contacted the producers but created heartrending scenes with Iceman.
"The producers went for it. Cruise went for it. Cruise couldn't have been cooler."
Top Gun: Maverick was due to be released in cinemas in June but following the coronavirus outbreak is now due to come to the screen at the end of the year.
Kilmer's memoir also details his colourful dating past, going out with Hollywood stars including Cindy Crawford, Angelina Jolie and Carly Simon.
Image: Kilmer said he didn't want to go out with Cher to start with
Kilmer, who dated Cher for a year, admits he initially didn't want to meet her as he thought she was a "less-than-fascinating character out of the gossip rags".
However, after getting to know the pop star, he declared her the "funniest woman I ever met".
The pair have remained close, with Cher supporting Kilmer throughout his 2015 throat cancer diagnosis.
The actor was staying at her guesthouse when he realised he was seriously unwell and began "vomiting blood that covered the bed like a scene out of The Godfather".
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He says Cher accompanied him in the ambulance and was with him when he underwent his tracheotomy and chemotherapy sessions.
Kilmer, who described his split from actress Daryl Hannah in 2001 as the "most painful", says he has now been single for 15 years.
Val Kilmer's memoir I'm Your Huckleberry is out now, and Top Gun: Maverick will be released on 23 December.


skynewsus--2020-04-24--'It could kill you': Trump under fire for suggesting disinfectant as coronavirus treatment

Donald Trump has come under fire from medical experts for suggesting further research and tests into whether injecting COVID-19 patients with disinfectant could cure them from coronavirus .
Doctors immediately warned against the unproven idea , blasting it as `` irresponsible '' and `` dangerous '' , and said it could kill people .
The US president made his remarks after one of his officials gave a presentation on the impacts of bleach and sunlight on coronavirus and how it reacts to different temperatures and surfaces , during Thursday 's White House COVID-19 task force briefing .
William Bryan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Homeland Security 's Science and Technology Directorate , said government research showed the virus appears to weaken more quickly when exposed to sunlight , heat and humidity .
While he noted the research still needed to be tested and should be be treated with caution , Mr Trump suggested researchers apply their findings , including utilising the effect of ultraviolet light on coronavirus , to COVID-19 patients .
`` So , supposing we hit the body with a tremendous , whether it 's ultraviolet or just very powerful light , and I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but you 're going to test it , '' he said .
`` And then I said , supposing you brought the light inside the body , which you can do either through the skin or in some other way .
And I think you said you 're going to test that , too , sounds interesting '' Right , and then I see the disinfectant , it knocks it out in a minute , one minute and is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside or or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it gets on the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs .
`` So it will also be interesting to check that so you 're gon na have to use medical doctors .
But it sounds , it sounds interesting to me so we 'll see .
But the whole concept of the light , the way it goes in and one minute , that 's - that 's pretty powerful . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr Deborah Birx , the co-ordinator of the White House coronavirus task force , and asked her to speak with doctors `` to see if there 's any way that you can apply light and heat to cure '' .
`` Maybe you can , maybe you ca n't , '' he said : `` I 'm not a doctor .
I am a person that has a good , you know what , '' he added while pointing to his head .
Phil Rucker of The Washington Post said to Mr Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 're the president , and people tuning into the briefings , they want to get information and guidance and want to know what to do .
They 're not looking for rumours . ''
Mr Trump responded : `` Hey Phil .
I 'm the president , and you 're fake news .
And know what I will say to you ?
I will say very nicely .
I know you well .
I know you well .
Because I know the guy , I see what he writes .
He 's a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Are you ready ?
Are you ready ?
It is just a suggestion , from a brilliant lab by a very , very smart , perhaps brilliant man .
`` [ Bryan ] He 's talking about sun .
He 's talking about heat .
And you see the numbers , so that 's it .
That 's all I have .
I 'm just here to present talent .
I 'm here to present ideas , because we want ideas to get rid of this thing .
And if heat is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that 's a great thing as far as I 'm concerned . ''
Pulmonologist Dr Vin Gupta told NBC News : `` This notion of injecting or ingesting any type of cleansing product into the body is irresponsible and it 's dangerous . ''
Robert Reich , a professor of public policy at the University of California at Berkeley , tweeted : `` Trump 's briefings are actively endangering the public 's health .
Boycott the propaganda .
Listen to the experts .
And please do n't drink disinfectant . ''
Walter Shaub @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Government Ethics , added : `` It is incomprehensible to me that a moron like this holds the highest office in the land and that there exist people stupid enough to think this is OK .
I ca n't believe that in 2020 I have to caution anyone listening to the president that injecting disinfectant could kill you . ''
The president was already facing criticism for championing hydroxychloroquine as a possible cure for COVID-19 , which has been shown to provide no benefit and possibly a higher risk of death .

Donald Trump has come under fire from medical experts for suggesting further research and tests into whether injecting COVID-19 patients with disinfectant could cure them from coronavirus.
Doctors immediately warned against the unproven idea, blasting it as "irresponsible" and "dangerous", and said it could kill people.
The US president made his remarks after one of his officials gave a presentation on the impacts of bleach and sunlight on coronavirus and how it reacts to different temperatures and surfaces, during Thursday's White House COVID-19 task force briefing.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:52 Protests continue in the US against lockdown
William Bryan, acting head of the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate, said government research showed the virus appears to weaken more quickly when exposed to sunlight, heat and humidity.
While he noted the research still needed to be tested and should be be treated with caution, Mr Trump suggested researchers apply their findings, including utilising the effect of ultraviolet light on coronavirus, to COVID-19 patients.
"So, supposing we hit the body with a tremendous, whether it's ultraviolet or just very powerful light, and I think you said that has not been checked but you're going to test it," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 Doctor's disbelief as Trump touts disinfectant
"And then I said, supposing you brought the light inside the body, which you can do either through the skin or in some other way. And I think you said you're going to test that, too, sounds interesting
"Right, and then I see the disinfectant, it knocks it out in a minute, one minute and is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning, 'cause you see it gets on the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs.
"So it will also be interesting to check that so you're gonna have to use medical doctors. But it sounds, it sounds interesting to me so we'll see. But the whole concept of the light, the way it goes in and one minute, that's - that's pretty powerful."
Advertisement
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
At one point, he turned to Dr Deborah Birx, the co-ordinator of the White House coronavirus task force, and asked her to speak with doctors "to see if there's any way that you can apply light and heat to cure".
"Maybe you can, maybe you can't," he said: "I'm not a doctor. I am a person that has a good, you know what," he added while pointing to his head.
Phil Rucker of The Washington Post said to Mr Trump: "Respectfully, sir, you're the president, and people tuning into the briefings, they want to get information and guidance and want to know what to do. They're not looking for rumours."
Mr Trump responded: "Hey Phil. I'm the president, and you're fake news. And know what I will say to you? I will say very nicely. I know you well. I know you well. Because I know the guy, I see what he writes. He's a total faker.
"Are you ready? Are you ready? Are you ready? It is just a suggestion, from a brilliant lab by a very, very smart, perhaps brilliant man.
"[Bryan] He's talking about sun. He's talking about heat. And you see the numbers, so that's it. That's all I have. I'm just here to present talent. I'm here to present ideas, because we want ideas to get rid of this thing. And if heat is good, if sunlight is good, that's a great thing as far as I'm concerned."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:45 PM's call made quite an impression on Trump...
Pulmonologist Dr Vin Gupta told NBC News: "This notion of injecting or ingesting any type of cleansing product into the body is irresponsible and it's dangerous."
Robert Reich, a professor of public policy at the University of California at Berkeley, tweeted: "Trump's briefings are actively endangering the public's health. Boycott the propaganda. Listen to the experts. And please don't drink disinfectant."
Walter Shaub, the former director of the Office of Government Ethics, added: "It is incomprehensible to me that a moron like this holds the highest office in the land and that there exist people stupid enough to think this is OK. I can't believe that in 2020 I have to caution anyone listening to the president that injecting disinfectant could kill you."
The White House has responded to the criticism aimed at the president, with press secretary Kayleigh McEnany issuing a statement widely quoted by US media.
She said: "President Trump has repeatedly said Americans should consult with medical doctors regarding coronavirus treatment, a point that he emphasised again during yesterday's briefing.
"Leave it to the media to irresponsibly take President Trump out of context and run with negative headlines."
The president was already facing criticism for championing hydroxychloroquine as a possible cure for COVID-19, which has been shown to provide no benefit and possibly a higher risk of death.
Downing Street said Mr Trump's suggestion that tests should be carried out into the disinfectant research is "not something that is being looked at here".
Asked if it was responsible to make such comments, British PM Boris Johnson's official spokesman replied: "We can only speak for the UK's response.
"In relation to disinfectant, I am certainly not aware that it is anything that has been recommended. Our approach is being driven by UK science and medical advice."


skynewsus--2020-04-24--Dettol maker says disinfectant should not be ingested 'under any circumstances'

The maker of Dettol has said its product should not be ingested `` under any circumstances '' after Donald Trump suggested tests should be carried out to see if COVID-19 patients could be injected with disinfectant .
In a statement , RB said since the US president 's remarks it had been asked if `` internal administration of disinfectants '' could be used to treat coronavirus patients .
`` As a global leader in health and hygiene products , we must be clear that under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body ( through injection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` As with all products , our disinfectant and hygiene products should only be used as intended and in line with usage guidelines .
Please read the label and safety information . ''
Mr Trump made his remarks after one of his officials gave a presentation on the impacts of bleach and sunlight on coronavirus and how it reacts to different temperatures and surfaces , during Thursday 's White House task force briefing .
`` Right , and then I see the disinfectant , it knocks it out in a minute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning , 'cause you see it gets on the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker '' So it will also be interesting to check that so you 're gon na have to use medical doctors .
But it sounds , it sounds interesting to me so we 'll see . ''
The president was already facing criticism for championing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which has been shown to provide no benefit and possibly a higher risk of death .
Doctors immediately warned against the unproven idea , blasting it as `` irresponsible '' and `` dangerous '' , and said it could kill people .

The maker of Dettol has said its product should not be ingested "under any circumstances" after Donald Trump suggested tests should be carried out to see if COVID-19 patients could be injected with disinfectant.
In a statement, RB said since the US president's remarks it had been asked if "internal administration of disinfectants" could be used to treat coronavirus patients.
"As a global leader in health and hygiene products, we must be clear that under no circumstance should our disinfectant products be administered into the human body (through injection, ingestion or any other route).
"As with all products, our disinfectant and hygiene products should only be used as intended and in line with usage guidelines. Please read the label and safety information."
Image: Improper use of disinfectants
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 Lights and disinfectant: Trump's cure suggestions
Mr Trump made his remarks after one of his officials gave a presentation on the impacts of bleach and sunlight on coronavirus and how it reacts to different temperatures and surfaces, during Thursday's White House task force briefing.
"Right, and then I see the disinfectant, it knocks it out in a minute, one minute and is there a way we can do something like that by injection inside or almost a cleaning, 'cause you see it gets on the lungs and it does a tremendous number on the lungs.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
"So it will also be interesting to check that so you're gonna have to use medical doctors. But it sounds, it sounds interesting to me so we'll see."
The president was already facing criticism for championing hydroxychloroquine as a possible cure for COVID-19, which has been shown to provide no benefit and possibly a higher risk of death.
Advertisement
Doctors immediately warned against the unproven idea, blasting it as "irresponsible" and "dangerous", and said it could kill people.


skynewsus--2020-04-24--'You've got a friend in me': Tom Hanks writes letter to bullied boy named Corona

Tom Hanks has sent a letter and a Corona brand typewriter to an Australian boy who wrote to him telling him he was being bullied because of his name - Corona .
Corona De Vries , from the Gold Coast in Queensland state , wrote to the Hollywood star and his actress wife , Rita .
The couple were in Australia last month when they were confirmed as having COVID-19 .
The eight-year-old schoolboy wrote to Hanks , saying : `` I heard on the news you and your wife had caught the coronavirus .
Are you ok ?
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people call me the coronavirus .
`` I get very sad and angry when people call me this . ''
Corona sent the letter to the Forrest Gump star earlier this month , and received Hanks ' response this week .
The actor replied in a letter typed on a Corona typewriter , saying : `` Your letter made my wife and I feel so wonderful !
`` Thank you for being such a good friend .
Friends make their friends feel good when they are down .
`` I saw you on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the USA already - and all healthy .
`` Even though I was no longer sick , getting your letter made me feel even better . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The two-time Oscar winner said : `` You know , you are the only person I 've ever known to have the name Corona - like the ring around the sun , a crown .
`` I thought this typewriter would suit you .
Ask a grown up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to write me back . ''
The Toy Story star wrote with a pen at the end : `` P.S .
You got a friend in ME ! ''
Hanks and Wilson , both 63 , tested positive for COVID-19 last month .
They went into self-quarantine at their home in Australia after receiving treatment at the Gold Coast University Hospital .
Hanks had been in Australia to work on Baz Luhrmann 's Elvis Presley biopic , but filming was shut down after he and his wife were diagnosed .
The pair kept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media .

Tom Hanks has sent a letter and a Corona brand typewriter to an Australian boy who wrote to him telling him he was being bullied because of his name - Corona.
Corona De Vries, from the Gold Coast in Queensland state, wrote to the Hollywood star and his actress wife, Rita.
The couple were in Australia last month when they were confirmed as having COVID-19.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
The eight-year-old schoolboy wrote to Hanks, saying: "I heard on the news you and your wife had caught the coronavirus. Are you ok?
"I love my name but at school people call me the coronavirus.
"I get very sad and angry when people call me this."
Corona sent the letter to the Forrest Gump star earlier this month, and received Hanks' response this week.
The actor replied in a letter typed on a Corona typewriter, saying: "Your letter made my wife and I feel so wonderful!
"Thank you for being such a good friend. Friends make their friends feel good when they are down.
Advertisement
"I saw you on TV, even though I was back in the USA already - and all healthy.
"Even though I was no longer sick, getting your letter made me feel even better."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The two-time Oscar winner said: "You know, you are the only person I've ever known to have the name Corona - like the ring around the sun, a crown.
"I thought this typewriter would suit you. Ask a grown up how it works. And use it to write me back."
The Toy Story star wrote with a pen at the end: "P.S. You got a friend in ME!"
Hanks and Wilson, both 63, tested positive for COVID-19 last month.
They went into self-quarantine at their home in Australia after receiving treatment at the Gold Coast University Hospital.
Hanks had been in Australia to work on Baz Luhrmann's Elvis Presley biopic, but filming was shut down after he and his wife were diagnosed.
The pair kept fans updated on their recovery on social media.