skynewsus--2020-04-17--Naked Cowboy refuses to leave Times Square over COVID-19

The Naked Cowboy , famous for performing with his guitar in New York 's Times Square , is refusing to leave despite the coronavirus outbreak .
Although now adding a face mask to his outfit of hat , boots and white pants , Robert Burck , 49 , insists it will take more than a global pandemic to stop him from entertaining crowds , even if they are smaller in lockdown .
Speaking to Rolling Stone magazine , he said : `` I have n't missed one day in 20 years , six months and 28 days - unless I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in another city where the opportunity was bigger .
`` My decision to stay in Times Square during corona is no different than going out there every single day when it 's 19 degrees or there 's a blizzard or a rainstorm or a heatwave - does n't matter . ''
New York has become the epicentre of the outbreak in the US , with almost 11,500 people dying with the virus - 40 % of all deaths in the country .
On Thursday , New York 's governor , Andrew Cuomo , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beast '' , after reporting a drop in the daily number of deaths state-wide , and the overall count of people in hospital .
However , on Friday , he said deaths in the state had risen by 630 - a small increase from the previous 24-hour figure of 606. : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker He also told his daily news briefing that he needed federal help to ramp up testing for the virus and to reopen his economy , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's administration .
He said : `` Is there any funding so I can do these things that you want us to do ?
`` No .
That is passing the buck , without passing the bucks . ''
On Friday night , new rules requiring New Yorkers to wear face masks in public come into force , as the state prepares to remain in lockdown until at least 15 May to stop the spread of the disease .
President Trump told his daily news conference on Thursday that restrictions could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next several weeks , in places that have extensive testing and a marked decrease in cases .
`` We are not opening all at once , but one careful step at a time , '' he said .
The Naked Cowboy , an avid Trump supporter , claims it used to take him more than an hour to travel to Times Square from his home in Queens .
In lockdown it takes 13 minutes .
He says he still sees thousands of people each day , and that having come into contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he believes that he `` could n't get sick if I tried '' .
`` Good timber does n't grow with ease , the stronger the wind , the stronger the trees , '' he told Rolling Stone .
`` What does n't kill me , makes me stronger .
`` Life is strongest on the coral reef , where it 's most dangerous .
Nietzsche said , 'Build your cities on the slopes of the Vesuvius . '
'' Although he hopes New York City reopens soon , he says he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 've never seen the city so clean , it looks like Texas , '' he said .
`` I feel like the world got a spring cleaning . ''

The Naked Cowboy, famous for performing with his guitar in New York's Times Square, is refusing to leave despite the coronavirus outbreak.
Although now adding a face mask to his outfit of hat, boots and white pants, Robert Burck, 49, insists it will take more than a global pandemic to stop him from entertaining crowds, even if they are smaller in lockdown.
Speaking to Rolling Stone magazine, he said: "I haven't missed one day in 20 years, six months and 28 days - unless I was travelling to be the Naked Cowboy in another city where the opportunity was bigger.
Image: Robert Burck is still performing in Times Square despite the lockdown
"My decision to stay in Times Square during corona is no different than going out there every single day when it's 19 degrees or there's a blizzard or a rainstorm or a heatwave - doesn't matter."
New York has become the epicentre of the outbreak in the US, with almost 11,500 people dying with the virus - 40% of all deaths in the country.
On Thursday, New York's governor, Andrew Cuomo, claimed they had now "controlled the beast", after reporting a drop in the daily number of deaths state-wide, and the overall count of people in hospital.
However, on Friday, he said deaths in the state had risen by 630 - a small increase from the previous 24-hour figure of 606.
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He also told his daily news briefing that he needed federal help to ramp up testing for the virus and to reopen his economy, and appeared to take a swipe at Donald Trump's administration.
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He said: "Is there any funding so I can do these things that you want us to do?
"No. That is passing the buck, without passing the bucks."
On Friday night, new rules requiring New Yorkers to wear face masks in public come into force, as the state prepares to remain in lockdown until at least 15 May to stop the spread of the disease.
President Trump told his daily news conference on Thursday that restrictions could be eased to allow businesses to reopen over the next several weeks, in places that have extensive testing and a marked decrease in cases.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:53 This is what life on Earth looks like, April 2020
"We are not opening all at once, but one careful step at a time," he said.
The Naked Cowboy, an avid Trump supporter, claims it used to take him more than an hour to travel to Times Square from his home in Queens. In lockdown it takes 13 minutes.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:58 'We're past the peak and starting life again'
He says he still sees thousands of people each day, and that having come into contact with so many people over the years, he believes that he "couldn't get sick if I tried".
"Good timber doesn't grow with ease, the stronger the wind, the stronger the trees," he told Rolling Stone.
"What doesn't kill me, makes me stronger.
"Life is strongest on the coral reef, where it's most dangerous. Nietzsche said, 'Build your cities on the slopes of the Vesuvius.'"
Although he hopes New York City reopens soon, he says he has noticed some positive changes.
"I've never seen the city so clean, it looks like Texas," he said.
"I feel like the world got a spring cleaning."


skynewsus--2020-04-17--Trump clashes with New York rival as anger rises over stay-at-home order

Donald Trump has called on his supporters to `` liberate '' Minnesota , Michigan and Virginia - all of whom have Democratic governors - as he tries to get the crippled US economy reopened .
Strict stay-at-home orders have been imposed by politicians in 42 states to tackle the coronavirus pandemic , with businesses closed and millions of Americans out of work .
Some people have started taking to the streets to urge governors to reconsider the COVID-19 restrictions , including a demonstration outside the home of governor Tim Walz in Minnesota .
There have also been protests in Virginia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Texas , North Carolina and Kentucky .
Jay Inslee , the Democratic governor for Washington , accused Mr Trump of encouraging `` illegal and dangerous acts '' .
The president also criticised New York governor Andrew Cuomo , another Democrat , for his comments over the federal response .
Mr Trump claimed Mr Cuomo should spend more time `` doing '' and less time `` complaining '' .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mr Cuomo had earlier said the president was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bucks '' , accusing the government of underfunding the response .
He warned : `` The federal government can not wipe its hands of this and say , 'Oh , the states are responsible for testing ' .
We can not do it .
We can not do it without federal help . ''
The issue has become a personal one between the two high-profile politicians , with the president tweeting : `` Cuomo ridiculously wanted `` 40 thousand Ventilators '' .
We gave him a small fraction of that number , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had them in stockpile ! ''
On Thursday , the president unveiled a three-step set of guidelines for easing restrictions over several weeks in places that have widespread testing and are seeing a fall in COVID-19 cases .
And he assured the nation 's governors `` you 're going to call your own shots '' , after previously claiming he had the power to reopen the economy .
But governors from both sides of the political divide are calling for more help from Washington to ramp up testing - as the president put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` The States have to step up their testing ! ''
Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer , a Democrat who has been critical of the government 's response to the crisis , admitted people were very anxious about their livelihoods and worried about paying the rent when they were out of work .
`` But the last thing I want to do is to have a second wave here , so we 've got to be really smart , '' she said .
However , she also said she was hopeful the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy beginning on 1 May .
Ohio 's Mike DeWine has already said his state would start to reopen on the same day .
Both governors along with those in Wisconsin , Minnesota , Illinois , Indiana and Kentucky have formed a partnership to work together on restarting their economies , which make up about 16 % of total US economic output .

Donald Trump has called on his supporters to "liberate" Minnesota, Michigan and Virginia - all of whom have Democratic governors - as he tries to get the crippled US economy reopened.
Strict stay-at-home orders have been imposed by politicians in 42 states to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, with businesses closed and millions of Americans out of work.
Some people have started taking to the streets to urge governors to reconsider the COVID-19 restrictions, including a demonstration outside the home of governor Tim Walz in Minnesota.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds of people gathered outside the governor's residence in Minnesota
There have also been protests in Virginia and Michigan as well as Ohio, Texas, North Carolina and Kentucky.
Jay Inslee, the Democratic governor for Washington, accused Mr Trump of encouraging "illegal and dangerous acts".
The president also criticised New York governor Andrew Cuomo, another Democrat, for his comments over the federal response.
Mr Trump claimed Mr Cuomo should spend more time "doing" and less time "complaining".
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Mr Cuomo had earlier said the president was "passing the buck without passing the bucks", accusing the government of underfunding the response.
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He warned: "The federal government cannot wipe its hands of this and say, 'Oh, the states are responsible for testing'. We cannot do it. We cannot do it without federal help."
The issue has become a personal one between the two high-profile politicians, with the president tweeting: "Cuomo ridiculously wanted "40 thousand Ventilators". We gave him a small fraction of that number, and it was plenty. State should have had them in stockpile!"
On Thursday, the president unveiled a three-step set of guidelines for easing restrictions over several weeks in places that have widespread testing and are seeing a fall in COVID-19 cases.
And he assured the nation's governors "you're going to call your own shots", after previously claiming he had the power to reopen the economy.
But governors from both sides of the political divide are calling for more help from Washington to ramp up testing - as the president put the focus back on them, tweeting: "The States have to step up their testing!"
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 Andrew Cuomo accused Donald Trump of 'passing the buck without bucks'
Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat who has been critical of the government's response to the crisis, admitted people were very anxious about their livelihoods and worried about paying the rent when they were out of work.
"But the last thing I want to do is to have a second wave here, so we've got to be really smart," she said.
However, she also said she was hopeful the state could begin to reopen parts of its economy beginning on 1 May.
Ohio's Mike DeWine has already said his state would start to reopen on the same day.
Both governors along with those in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky have formed a partnership to work together on restarting their economies, which make up about 16% of total US economic output.


skynewsus--2020-04-18--'Church' ordered to stop selling bleach-based coronavirus cure

A federal judge has ordered a self-described church to stop selling a bleach-based product that it claims cures coronavirus .
The Florida-based company , Genesis II Church of Health and Healing , is alleged to have improperly marketed its `` Miracle Mineral Solution '' as a treatment for COVID-19 .
The product contains chlorine dioxide - a chemical compound that the Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) has warned will turn into a dangerous bleach when it is mixed with other things , making consumers ill. : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US Attorney 's Office in South Florida filed a civil complaint against the company and said its claims were `` unsupported by any well-controlled clinical studies or other credible scientific substantiation '' .
It came after the FDA sent a warning letter to the company on 8 April over its claims , ordering it to respond within 48 hours about what corrective measures it planned to take .
Prosecutors also argued that the company is secular despite having the name `` church '' in its title .
The firm 's executives - Mark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Jonathan Grenon - hold titles of `` bishop '' or `` archbishop '' .
The company describes itself as a `` loose-knit organisation '' on its website , adding that it was `` formed to serve MANKIND directly '' and `` bring health to the world '' .
The Justice Department said that Mark Grenon made erroneous comments about a cure for coronavirus in a video on the company 's website .
`` The coronavirus is curable , do you believe it ?
You better ... it 's wicked good stuff Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Joseph Grenon then replies : `` MMS will kill it . ''
According to Johns Hopkins University , there are now more than 700,000 known coronavirus infections in the US - the most of any country .
At least 35,000 people there have died .
In March , Attorney General William Barr ordered all US Attorney offices to prioritise investigations into coronavirus-related scams , such as the peddling of fake cures , investment schemes and Medicare fraud .
Earlier this month , US celebrity `` doctor '' Drew Pinsky apologised for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus and suggested it was `` press-induced panic '' .
An online video put together clips from a series of appearances he made over a two-month period where he repeatedly suggested COVID-19 would not be as bad as the flu .
At one point , he said the probability of dying of coronavirus was less than being hit by an asteroid .
American televangelist Kenneth Copeland recently claimed the coronavirus pandemic will be `` over much sooner than you think '' because `` Christian people all over this country praying have overwhelmed it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` finished '' and `` over '' and made the US `` healed and well again '' in a sermon last month .
In another recent sermon , he summoned the `` wind of God '' to destroy the disease , chanting : `` You are destroyed forever , and you 'll never be back .
Thank you , God .
Let it happen .
Cause it to happen . ''

A federal judge has ordered a self-described church to stop selling a bleach-based product that it claims cures coronavirus.
The Florida-based company, Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, is alleged to have improperly marketed its "Miracle Mineral Solution" as a treatment for COVID-19.
The product contains chlorine dioxide - a chemical compound that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned will turn into a dangerous bleach when it is mixed with other things, making consumers ill.
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
Prosecutors in the US Attorney's Office in South Florida filed a civil complaint against the company and said its claims were "unsupported by any well-controlled clinical studies or other credible scientific substantiation".
It came after the FDA sent a warning letter to the company on 8 April over its claims, ordering it to respond within 48 hours about what corrective measures it planned to take.
Prosecutors also argued that the company is secular despite having the name "church" in its title. The firm's executives - Mark Grenon, Joseph Grenon, Jordan Grenon and Jonathan Grenon - hold titles of "bishop" or "archbishop".
The company describes itself as a "loose-knit organisation" on its website, adding that it was "formed to serve MANKIND directly" and "bring health to the world".
The Justice Department said that Mark Grenon made erroneous comments about a cure for coronavirus in a video on the company's website.
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"The coronavirus is curable, do you believe it? You better... it's wicked good stuff Joe," he says in the clip.
Joseph Grenon then replies: "MMS will kill it."
According to Johns Hopkins University, there are now more than 700,000 known coronavirus infections in the US - the most of any country. At least 35,000 people there have died.
In March, Attorney General William Barr ordered all US Attorney offices to prioritise investigations into coronavirus-related scams, such as the peddling of fake cures, investment schemes and Medicare fraud.
Earlier this month, US celebrity "doctor" Drew Pinsky apologised for a series of statements where he downplayed the coronavirus and suggested it was "press-induced panic".
An online video put together clips from a series of appearances he made over a two-month period where he repeatedly suggested COVID-19 would not be as bad as the flu.
At one point, he said the probability of dying of coronavirus was less than being hit by an asteroid.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 New York governor blasts Trump over funding
American televangelist Kenneth Copeland recently claimed the coronavirus pandemic will be "over much sooner than you think" because "Christian people all over this country praying have overwhelmed it".
Mr Copeland declared COVID-19 was "finished" and "over" and made the US "healed and well again" in a sermon last month.
In another recent sermon, he summoned the "wind of God" to destroy the disease, chanting: "You are destroyed forever, and you'll never be back. Thank you, God. Let it happen. Cause it to happen."


skynewsus--2020-04-17--For first time in 9 years, astronauts will be sent into space from the US

NASA has announced that SpaceX will launch astronauts into orbit from US soil next month after nine years of complete dependence on Russia .
SpaceX plans to end the drought by sending astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken to the International Space station on 27 May .
Lift off will be from Florida 's Kennedy Space Center on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at 4.32pm local time .
It marks the first time a rocket will carry astronauts into orbit from the US since NASA 's last space shuttle flight in 2011 .
Mr Hurley served as pilot on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spacecraft commander for SpaceX 's Dragon crew capsule .
`` On May 27 , @ NASA will once again launch American astronauts on American rockets from American soil !
`` , NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine tweeted on Friday .
It is too soon to know whether the coronavirus pandemic will prompt crowd restrictions at the launch .
Russia , the US and China are the only three countries to have launched people into orbit since 1961 - and SpaceX would be the first company .
SpaceX successfully conducted its first test flight of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sending the capsule - minus the crew - to the space station .
However , the returned capsule was accidentally destroyed during ground testing at Cape Canaveral , further delaying the astronaut launch .
The length of Mr Hurley and Mr Behnken 's mission is still under review , according to NASA , but they are expected to spend weeks , perhaps months , helping to maintain the orbiting lab .
Meanwhile , NASA is in the process of buying another seat on a Russian rocket .
Russian Soyuz capsules have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the space station since 2011 .
SpaceX has been using Falcon 9 rockets to launch cargo to the space station in the company 's original Dragon capsules since 2012 .
Boeing is working to launch astronauts under NASA 's commercial crew programme , but suffered a major setback following last December 's botched test flight .
The aerospace company plans to repeat the test flight again this autumn .

NASA has announced that SpaceX will launch astronauts into orbit from US soil next month after nine years of complete dependence on Russia.
SpaceX plans to end the drought by sending astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken to the International Space station on 27 May.
Lift off will be from Florida's Kennedy Space Center on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket at 4.32pm local time.
Image: NASA Astronauts Doug Hurley (L) and Bob Behnken will be sent on the mission on 27 May
It marks the first time a rocket will carry astronauts into orbit from the US since NASA's last space shuttle flight in 2011.
Mr Hurley served as pilot on the last shuttle mission and will be the spacecraft commander for SpaceX's Dragon crew capsule.
"On May 27, @NASA will once again launch American astronauts on American rockets from American soil!", NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine tweeted on Friday.
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
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It is too soon to know whether the coronavirus pandemic will prompt crowd restrictions at the launch.
Russia, the US and China are the only three countries to have launched people into orbit since 1961 - and SpaceX would be the first company.
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SpaceX successfully conducted its first test flight of a Dragon crew capsule a year ago, sending the capsule - minus the crew - to the space station.
However, the returned capsule was accidentally destroyed during ground testing at Cape Canaveral, further delaying the astronaut launch.
The length of Mr Hurley and Mr Behnken's mission is still under review, according to NASA, but they are expected to spend weeks, perhaps months, helping to maintain the orbiting lab.
Meanwhile, NASA is in the process of buying another seat on a Russian rocket.
Russian Soyuz capsules have been used for crew transportation to and from the space station since 2011.
SpaceX has been using Falcon 9 rockets to launch cargo to the space station in the company's original Dragon capsules since 2012.
Boeing is working to launch astronauts under NASA's commercial crew programme, but suffered a major setback following last December's botched test flight.
The aerospace company plans to repeat the test flight again this autumn.


skynewsus--2020-04-06--J Lo, Elton and Stevie Wonder set for virus TV special

Sir Elton John , Jennifer Lopez and Stevie Wonder will perform in a live TV special , under the direction of Lady Gaga , to show support for healthcare workers fighting the coronavirus .
The One World : Together At Home event will be broadcast tonight on several US networks and streamed on social media .
More than 100 stars will perform from their homes across the world , to create the two-hour concert .
Gaga and advocacy organisation Global Citizen have already raised $ 35m ( £28m ) in seven days for the World Health Organisation 's ( WHO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the singer .
Fans will be able to watch the show live on Instagram , YouTube , Apple , Facebook and Twitter at 1am UK time .
The full show will also be replayed at 7.15pm on Sunday on BBC 1 .
During a news conference , Gaga said : `` We want to highlight the gravity of this historical , unprecedented cultural movement , and we want to celebrate and encourage the power of the human spirit . ''
She said she plans to raise more money , but explained that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` Put your wallets away , and sit back and enjoy the show you all deserve . ''
On its website , the WHO said the event is being put on `` in celebration and support of healthcare workers , broadcast to feature real experiences from doctors , nurses and families around the world '' .
It will be hosted by US comedians Stephen Colbert , Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel as well as some colourful Sesame Street characters .
Other big names include Coldplay 's Chris Martin , David and Victoria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Celene Dion , Taylor Swift , Alanis Morissette , Keith Urban and Billie Eilish .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A couple of the One Direction boys are also getting involved too .
Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina - who both tested posted for coronavirus - will also take part .

Sir Elton John, Jennifer Lopez and Stevie Wonder will perform in a live TV special, under the direction of Lady Gaga, to show support for healthcare workers fighting the coronavirus.
The One World: Together At Home event will be broadcast tonight on several US networks and streamed on social media.
Image: The event is being held under the direction of Lady Gaga
More than 100 stars will perform from their homes across the world, to create the two-hour concert.
Gaga and advocacy organisation Global Citizen have already raised $35m (£28m) in seven days for the World Health Organisation's (WHO) COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund, according to the singer.
Image: Sir Elton John is among the stars who will perform
Fans will be able to watch the show live on Instagram,YouTube, Apple, Facebook and Twitter at 1am UK time.
The full show will also be replayed at 7.15pm on Sunday on BBC 1.
During a news conference, Gaga said: "We want to highlight the gravity of this historical, unprecedented cultural movement, and we want to celebrate and encourage the power of the human spirit."
Image: Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina Dhowre have suffered with the virus
She said she plans to raise more money, but explained that the TV special is not a fundraiser: "Put your wallets away, and sit back and enjoy the show you all deserve."
On its website, the WHO said the event is being put on "in celebration and support of healthcare workers, broadcast to feature real experiences from doctors, nurses and families around the world".
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:39 Coronavirus: Stars perform online
It will be hosted by US comedians Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel as well as some colourful Sesame Street characters.
Other big names include Coldplay's Chris Martin, David and Victoria Beckham, John Legend, Andrea Bocelli, Celene Dion, Taylor Swift, Alanis Morissette, Keith Urban and Billie Eilish.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A couple of the One Direction boys are also getting involved too.
Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina - who both tested posted for coronavirus - will also take part.


skynewsus--2020-04-18--New Jersey care homes investigated due to high number of COVID-19 deaths

Care homes in the US state of New Jersey are being investigated due to high numbers of deaths from COVID-19 and accusations they have deliberately withheld information from worried relatives .
Twenty-nine elderly residents have died at one home in the town of Elizabeth and 40 of the remaining 52 residents are sick with the virus .
At another home in the north of the state , 17 bodies were found squeezed into a small morgue designed to hold only four .
Police made the discovery after receiving an anonymous tip-off that a body was being stored in a shed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoke to Sky News complained they are not being told what is going on .
`` Nobody told us , '' one family member said .
`` I heard it on the news and no one in the office is answering our questions , nobody is giving us any details , nobody is telling us anything .
`` We 're all sitting ducks , waiting to see if someone is going to tell us our family member passed away . ''
Viviana Olivero 's grandmother , Dioselina , was a resident of Elizabeth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in hospital last week after her family pleaded with the home to take her in .
She was 78 years old .
`` We believe that she was sick over a week , '' Viviana said .
`` We had not been notified .
We had an employee who let us know .
She was not able to breathe , she was having respiratory issues , she was experiencing all the symptoms and for some reason she was not taken to the ER . ''
The first confirmation Dioselina 's family had that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they received a letter after she died .
The local mayor told Sky News he has asked New Jersey 's governor and state attorney general to investigate the home .
`` I ache for those relatives .
I hurt for those relatives for the simple reason they get a letter from the nursing home telling them what 's going on , '' Mayor Chris Bollwage said .
`` That 's not the way the administrator of this nursing home should deal with the families who are dealing with all this anguish .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our emails but when we phoned them they said : `` This is not a unique situation to Elizabeth nursing .
`` Unfortunately many nursing homes in New Jersey are under the same situation and we 're working with the Department for Health and local health agencies to comply with the department .
`` So right now our main focus is caring for the residents . ''

Care homes in the US state of New Jersey are being investigated due to high numbers of deaths from COVID-19 and accusations they have deliberately withheld information from worried relatives.
Twenty-nine elderly residents have died at one home in the town of Elizabeth and 40 of the remaining 52 residents are sick with the virus.
At another home in the north of the state, 17 bodies were found squeezed into a small morgue designed to hold only four.
Police made the discovery after receiving an anonymous tip-off that a body was being stored in a shed on the grounds.
Distressed relatives who spoke to Sky News complained they are not being told what is going on.
"Nobody told us," one family member said.
"I heard it on the news and no one in the office is answering our questions, nobody is giving us any details, nobody is telling us anything.
"We're all sitting ducks, waiting to see if someone is going to tell us our family member passed away."
Image: Care homes in New Jersey are seeing a high number of COVID-19 deaths
Viviana Olivero's grandmother, Dioselina, was a resident of Elizabeth Nursing and Rehab Center. She died in hospital last week after her family pleaded with the home to take her in. She was 78 years old.
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"We believe that she was sick over a week," Viviana said.
"We had not been notified. We had an employee who let us know. She was not able to breathe, she was having respiratory issues, she was experiencing all the symptoms and for some reason she was not taken to the ER."
Image: Elizabeth Nursing and Rehab Center is in New Jersey
The first confirmation Dioselina's family had that coronavirus was in the nursing home was when they received a letter after she died.
The local mayor told Sky News he has asked New Jersey's governor and state attorney general to investigate the home.
"I ache for those relatives. I hurt for those relatives for the simple reason they get a letter from the nursing home telling them what's going on," Mayor Chris Bollwage said.
"That's not the way the administrator of this nursing home should deal with the families who are dealing with all this anguish."
Image: Mayor Chris Bollwage of Elizabeth says he 'aches' for grieving relatives
The nursing home didn't reply to our emails but when we phoned them they said: "This is not a unique situation to Elizabeth nursing.
"Unfortunately many nursing homes in New Jersey are under the same situation and we're working with the Department for Health and local health agencies to comply with the department.
"So right now our main focus is caring for the residents."


skynewsus--2020-04-19--Donald Trump questions whether China started coronavirus deliberately

Donald Trump has attacked China once again over the coronavirus pandemic - questioning whether it was a `` mistake that got out of control '' or a crisis that was started deliberately .
At the daily White House briefing , the US president warned that Beijing would face consequences if it was `` knowingly responsible '' for the spread of COVID-19 , but he stopped short of saying what type of actions he might take .
`` It could have been stopped in China before it started and it was n't , and the whole world is suffering from it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday .
The president has ramped up his rhetoric in recent days , and he has repeatedly referred to coronavirus as the `` Chinese virus '' in the past .
Mr Trump and his senior aides have also accused China of lacking transparency .
These allegations resurfaced after the city of Wuhan , where the outbreak began , revised its total number of fatalities upwards - increasing them by 50 % .
Dr Deborah Birx , the coordinator of the White House coronavirus taskforce , also questioned China 's data on Saturday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death rate per 100,000 people is substantially below major European countries and the US .
Describing China 's figures as `` unrealistic '' , she warned the country has a `` moral obligation '' to provide credible information to the rest of the world .
This week , the Trump administration also suspended aid to the World Health Organisation - accusing the UN health agency of being `` China-centric '' .
Critics claim Mr Trump is attempting to use Beijing to deflect from shortcomings in his own response to the pandemic .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases , with more than 730,000 infections and over 38,000 deaths .
There are concerns in the White House of a potential backlash if tensions between Washington and Beijing get too heated , as the US is heavily reliant on China for personal protective equipment .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Demonstrations demanding an end to stay-at-home measures that have hit America 's economy spread further on Saturday .
This is despite the fact that new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and experts warning that relaxing restrictions too quickly could prove disastrous .
Texas and Vermont are going to allow certain businesses to reopen on Monday , while the state of Montana is planning to lift restrictions on Friday .
`` We continue to see a number of positive signs that the virus has passed its peak , '' the president told reporters .
New York , which has recorded almost half of the country 's deaths from COVID-19 , reported 540 new coronavirus-related fatalities on Saturday - the lowest daily number since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has sparred with Donald Trump repeatedly during the pandemic , said : `` If you look at the past three days , you could argue that we are past the plateau and we 're starting to descend , which would be very good news . ''
However , Mr Cuomo warned that 2,000 people are still being admitted to hospital with COVID-19 on a daily basis - and said nursing homes remain a `` feeding frenzy '' for the virus .
`` We are not at a point when we are going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he added .
More than 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits in the past month , with the closures of businesses and schools - alongside severe travel restrictions - hitting the economy hard .
However , an influential research model has suggested that strict adherence to stay-at-home orders imposed in 42 US states has been a crucial factor behind an improved forecast for the country 's coronavirus death toll .
The University of Washington is now projecting that 60,308 people in the US will die from coronavirus by 4 August , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made earlier this week .

Donald Trump has attacked China once again over the coronavirus pandemic - questioning whether it was a "mistake that got out of control" or a crisis that was started deliberately.
At the daily White House briefing, the US president warned that Beijing would face consequences if it was "knowingly responsible" for the spread of COVID-19, but he stopped short of saying what type of actions he might take.
"It could have been stopped in China before it started and it wasn't, and the whole world is suffering from it," Mr Trump told reporters on Saturday.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds gather to protest lockdown in Minnesota
The president has ramped up his rhetoric in recent days, and he has repeatedly referred to coronavirus as the "Chinese virus" in the past.
Mr Trump and his senior aides have also accused China of lacking transparency. These allegations resurfaced after the city of Wuhan, where the outbreak began, revised its total number of fatalities upwards - increasing them by 50%.
Dr Deborah Birx, the coordinator of the White House coronavirus taskforce, also questioned China's data on Saturday, with charts indicating that the country's death rate per 100,000 people is substantially below major European countries and the US.
Describing China's figures as "unrealistic", she warned the country has a "moral obligation" to provide credible information to the rest of the world.
This week, the Trump administration also suspended aid to the World Health Organisation - accusing the UN health agency of being "China-centric".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 14 April -Trump to reporter: 'You know you are a fake'
Critics claim Mr Trump is attempting to use Beijing to deflect from shortcomings in his own response to the pandemic.
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The US has by far the world's highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases, with more than 730,000 infections and over 38,000 deaths.
There are concerns in the White House of a potential backlash if tensions between Washington and Beijing get too heated, as the US is heavily reliant on China for personal protective equipment.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Demonstrations demanding an end to stay-at-home measures that have hit America's economy spread further on Saturday.
This is despite the fact that new coronavirus hotspots are continuing to emerge nationwide, and experts warning that relaxing restrictions too quickly could prove disastrous.
Image: Protesters in Virginia have been rallying against stay-at-home orders and warning they 'will not comply'
Texas and Vermont are going to allow certain businesses to reopen on Monday, while the state of Montana is planning to lift restrictions on Friday.
"We continue to see a number of positive signs that the virus has passed its peak," the president told reporters.
New York, which has recorded almost half of the country's deaths from COVID-19, reported 540 new coronavirus-related fatalities on Saturday - the lowest daily number since 1 April.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 New York governor criticises Trump
Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has sparred with Donald Trump repeatedly during the pandemic, said: "If you look at the past three days, you could argue that we are past the plateau and we're starting to descend, which would be very good news."
However, Mr Cuomo warned that 2,000 people are still being admitted to hospital with COVID-19 on a daily basis - and said nursing homes remain a "feeding frenzy" for the virus.
"We are not at a point when we are going to be reopening anything immediately," he added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:41 New Jersey care homes investigated
More than 22 million Americans have filed for unemployment benefits in the past month, with the closures of businesses and schools - alongside severe travel restrictions - hitting the economy hard.
However, an influential research model has suggested that strict adherence to stay-at-home orders imposed in 42 US states has been a crucial factor behind an improved forecast for the country's coronavirus death toll.
The University of Washington is now projecting that 60,308 people in the US will die from coronavirus by 4 August, a 12% decrease from a forecast made earlier this week.


skynewsus--2020-04-19--Star-studded concert raises money - and spirits - during lockdown

Beyonce , Billie Eilish , Taylor Swift and The Rolling Stones are among a host of famous faces who have taken part in a virtual concert to celebrate healthcare workers .
More than 100 artists performed songs in the benefit concert organised by singer Lady Gaga , the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) and the non-profit group Global Citizen .
The One World : Together At Home event , which was live-streamed online and broadcast on TV , is the biggest celebrity effort to entertain millions of people in lockdown because of COVID-19 .
The event brought famous faces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together - including Stevie Wonder , Elton John , David and Victoria Beckham and former first ladies Michelle Obama and Laura Bush - to help raise spirits in the worldwide battle against the pandemic .
Hosted by US talk show hosts Jimmy Fallon , Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel , it also included real-life stories from medical staff on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic .
Organiser Lady Gaga said : `` I feel very honoured to be a part of the WHO and Global Citizen in the fight against COVID-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the medical workers who are putting their lives at risk for us right now .
I think of them every day , I pray for them every day and I 'm also thinking of all of you who are at home and are wondering when all of this will be different . ''
She then sang a piano rendition of Nat King Cole 's Smile .
Commemorating the late Bill Withers , Stevie Wonder reminded us of what is needed during these hard times .
He said : `` During hardships like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ each other for help .
My friend the late Bill Withers has a perfect song about that , and I want us to remember him tonight . ''
The Beckhams also showed their support for the healthcare workers all around the world .
`` If there 's any silver lining to come of this situation its meant lots of time together as a family , '' David Beckham said .
`` We know there are people out there who are risking everything to keep us all safe , we want to join with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thank you to them . ''
Victoria Beckham added : `` Our thanks goes to all of the healthcare workers all around the world who are working so , so hard , leaving their families to go to work to protect us and our children ... thank you from the bottom of our hearts . ''
She went on to introduce their `` dear , dear friend '' , Sir Elton John , who sang his 80s hit I 'm Still Standing .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beyonce had a message for the black community , who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19 .
She said : `` African-American communities have been severely affected in this crisis .
Those with pre-existing conditions are at an even higher risk .
This virus is killing black people at an alarming high rate , here in America .
`` Please protect yourselves , we are one family and we need you .
We need your voices , your abilities and your strength all over this world .
I know it 's hard but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for our heroes . ''
The broadcast also included social media posts and news clips showing doctors and nurses being applauded by communities around the world , as well as families greeting each other through windows , and acts of kindness in support for the isolated and vulnerable .
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres praised the world for uniting during these tough times .
`` Tonight through the universal language of music we salute the bravery and sacrifice of health carers and others .
And please join our call for a global ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus . ''
There were also performances from The Rolling Stones , Annie Lennox , Taylor Swift , Jennifer Lopez and Celine Dion .
There are more than 2.3 million known cases of coronavirus worldwide , and more than 160,000 people have died .

Beyonce, Billie Eilish, Taylor Swift and The Rolling Stones are among a host of famous faces who have taken part in a virtual concert to celebrate healthcare workers.
More than 100 artists performed songs in the benefit concert organised by singer Lady Gaga, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the non-profit group Global Citizen.
The One World: Together At Home event, which was live-streamed online and broadcast on TV, is the biggest celebrity effort to entertain millions of people in lockdown because of COVID-19.
Image: Lady Gaga helped organise the star-studded concert
The event brought famous faces in music, sport and other areas together - including Stevie Wonder, Elton John, David and Victoria Beckham and former first ladies Michelle Obama and Laura Bush - to help raise spirits in the worldwide battle against the pandemic.
Hosted by US talk show hosts Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, it also included real-life stories from medical staff on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic.
Organiser Lady Gaga said: "I feel very honoured to be a part of the WHO and Global Citizen in the fight against COVID-19.
"I care so much about all of the medical workers who are putting their lives at risk for us right now. I think of them every day, I pray for them every day and I'm also thinking of all of you who are at home and are wondering when all of this will be different."
She then sang a piano rendition of Nat King Cole's Smile.
Image: Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts of The Rolling Stones performed from their homes
Commemorating the late Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder reminded us of what is needed during these hard times.
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He said: "During hardships like this, we have to lean on each other for help. My friend the late Bill Withers has a perfect song about that, and I want us to remember him tonight."
The Beckhams also showed their support for the healthcare workers all around the world.
"If there's any silver lining to come of this situation its meant lots of time together as a family," David Beckham said.
"We know there are people out there who are risking everything to keep us all safe, we want to join with all of you to say a huge thank you to them."
Image: David Beckham and Victoria Beckham paid tribute to healthcare workers
Victoria Beckham added: "Our thanks goes to all of the healthcare workers all around the world who are working so, so hard, leaving their families to go to work to protect us and our children... thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
She went on to introduce their "dear, dear friend", Sir Elton John, who sang his 80s hit I'm Still Standing.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Beyonce had a message for the black community, who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
She said: "African-American communities have been severely affected in this crisis. Those with pre-existing conditions are at an even higher risk. This virus is killing black people at an alarming high rate, here in America.
"Please protect yourselves, we are one family and we need you. We need your voices, your abilities and your strength all over this world. I know it's hard but please be patient and continue to pray for our heroes."
The broadcast also included social media posts and news clips showing doctors and nurses being applauded by communities around the world, as well as families greeting each other through windows, and acts of kindness in support for the isolated and vulnerable.
Image: Jimmy Fallon (C) sings with musical group The Roots and front line medical workers during One World: Together
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres praised the world for uniting during these tough times.
"Tonight through the universal language of music we salute the bravery and sacrifice of health carers and others. And please join our call for a global ceasefire to focus on our common enemy the virus."
There were also performances from The Rolling Stones, Annie Lennox, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez and Celine Dion.
There are more than 2.3 million known cases of coronavirus worldwide, and more than 160,000 people have died.


skynewsus--2020-04-19--Restaurant finds long-lost wedding ring during lockdown renovations

A long-lost wedding ring has been returned to its rightful owner after it was found at a restaurant undergoing renovations during the coronavirus lockdown .
Three years ago , a New York man was enjoying a meal with his wife at a South Florida restaurant when his wedding ring slipped off his finger and through the wooden floorboards - apparently lost forever .
Since the coronavirus pandemic , Coconuts restaurant has only been serving takeaways , so manager Ryan Krivoy decided to replace the wooden patio deck .
When the decking was pulled up , he discovered a variety of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and $ 100 ( £80 ) bills .
He also spotted a silver wedding ring glistening through the piles of mud , engraved with the words `` Mike & Lisa 08-21-15 '' .
The restaurant 's marketing manager Sasha Formica decided to post a picture of the ring on Facebook , initially thinking it would not get a response .
However it was shared around 5,000 times before making its way to Mike and Lisa .
Three days after the Facebook post , the wife called to claim the ring , the Sun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , 'You 're not going to believe this , but I 'm Lisa , ' '' Ms Formica said .
Lisa even sent the restaurant pictures of her and her husband dining at the restaurant in 2017 as proof , explaining the ring had slipped off his greasy fingers and rolled between the wooden floorboards .
: : Listen to Coronavirus : In This Together on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or Spreaker Mr Krivoy said : `` We were cleaning up the debris down there and we noticed a bit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a ring .
`` Once we washed it off , we realised there was an engraving on the inside . ''
The restaurant posted the ring back to the couple .
Mr Krivoy took the £100 bills and a rare coin from 1855 - that may be worth as much as $ 2,000 ( £1,622 ) - for the tip jar to share with the staff .

A long-lost wedding ring has been returned to its rightful owner after it was found at a restaurant undergoing renovations during the coronavirus lockdown.
Three years ago, a New York man was enjoying a meal with his wife at a South Florida restaurant when his wedding ring slipped off his finger and through the wooden floorboards - apparently lost forever.
Since the coronavirus pandemic, Coconuts restaurant has only been serving takeaways, so manager Ryan Krivoy decided to replace the wooden patio deck.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 11:53 This is what life on Earth looks like, April 2020
When the decking was pulled up, he discovered a variety of miscellaneous treasures, including a gold coin and $100 (£80) bills.
He also spotted a silver wedding ring glistening through the piles of mud, engraved with the words "Mike & Lisa 08-21-15".
The restaurant's marketing manager Sasha Formica decided to post a picture of the ring on Facebook, initially thinking it would not get a response.
However it was shared around 5,000 times before making its way to Mike and Lisa.
Three days after the Facebook post, the wife called to claim the ring, the Sun Sentinel reported.
"She called and said, 'You're not going to believe this, but I'm Lisa,'" Ms Formica said.
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Lisa even sent the restaurant pictures of her and her husband dining at the restaurant in 2017 as proof, explaining the ring had slipped off his greasy fingers and rolled between the wooden floorboards.
:: Listen to Coronavirus: In This Together on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Spreaker
Mr Krivoy said: "We were cleaning up the debris down there and we noticed a bit of a sparkle, and we picked up a ring.
"Once we washed it off, we realised there was an engraving on the inside."
The restaurant posted the ring back to the couple.
Mr Krivoy took the £100 bills and a rare coin from 1855 - that may be worth as much as $2,000 (£1,622) - for the tip jar to share with the staff.


skynewsus--2020-04-19--Fears of beer shortage as carbon dioxide supplies fizzle out

There could be a shortage of beer and fizzy drinks in the US as supplies of carbon dioxide from ethanol plants run low .
Brewers and soft drink manufacturers use CO2 for carbonation - making drinks fizzy .
Ethanol producers capture CO2 as a byproduct and sell it to the food industry in large quantities .
But ethanol production - which is blended into the nation 's fuel supply - has fallen sharply due to the drop in petrol demand as a result of lockdown measures during the coronavirus pandemic .
Petrol demand is down by more than 30 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ethanol output is affecting the food industry as a result .
Renewable Fuels Association chief executive Geoff Cooper said that 34 of the 45 US ethanol plants that sell CO2 have idled or cut production .
And CO2 suppliers have increased prices by around 25 % due to reduced supply , according to Brewers Association chief executive Bob Pease .
The trade group represents small and independent US craft brewers , who get about 45 % of their CO2 from ethanol producers .
Mr Pease added : `` The problem is accelerating .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our members about this . ''
He expects brewers will start cutting production in two to three weeks .
In a letter to Vice President Mike Pence on 7 April , the Compressed Gas Association ( CGA ) said production of CO2 had fallen by about 20 % .
It added that it could be down by 50 % by mid-April without relief .
Meat producers are also being affected as they use CO2 in processing , packaging , preservation and shipment .
For some Americans , the COVID-19 lockdown has already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Olive Veronesi , a 93-year-old from Pennsylvania , recently went viral after a photo of her holding a sign that said `` I NEED MORE BEER !
! ''
was posted on Facebook .
The company that makes her favourite brand has now delivered 150 cans to her door .
Orion Melehan , chief executive of beverage company Life-AID in California , said two of his production partners are looking for alternative CO2 sources .
`` It does have us up at night figuring out what our options are , '' Mr Melehan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of unintended consequences . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker A spokeswoman for National Beverage Corp said the company sources from a number of national CO2 suppliers and does not anticipate a supply issue .
The Coca-Cola Company , SodaStream owner PepsiCo Inc , wine and beer seller Constellation Brands Inc and several bottling companies have not publicly commented on whether they will be affected by the shortage .
However , Denmark-based Carlsberg Group said that the company is `` almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line with our sustainability program , create our own CO2 and capture it during the brewing process , '' spokesman Kasper Elbjorn said .

There could be a shortage of beer and fizzy drinks in the US as supplies of carbon dioxide from ethanol plants run low.
Brewers and soft drink manufacturers use CO2 for carbonation - making drinks fizzy.
Ethanol producers capture CO2 as a byproduct and sell it to the food industry in large quantities.
Image: CO2 suppliers have increased prices by around 25% due to reduced supply
But ethanol production - which is blended into the nation's fuel supply - has fallen sharply due to the drop in petrol demand as a result of lockdown measures during the coronavirus pandemic.
Petrol demand is down by more than 30% in the US, and the dwindling ethanol output is affecting the food industry as a result.
Renewable Fuels Association chief executive Geoff Cooper said that 34 of the 45 US ethanol plants that sell CO2 have idled or cut production.
And CO2 suppliers have increased prices by around 25% due to reduced supply, according to Brewers Association chief executive Bob Pease.
The trade group represents small and independent US craft brewers, who get about 45% of their CO2 from ethanol producers.
Image: Petrol demand is down by more than 30% in the US due to the coronavirus lockdown measures
Mr Pease added: "The problem is accelerating. Every day we're hearing from more of our members about this."
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He expects brewers will start cutting production in two to three weeks.
In a letter to Vice President Mike Pence on 7 April, the Compressed Gas Association (CGA) said production of CO2 had fallen by about 20%.
It added that it could be down by 50% by mid-April without relief.
Meat producers are also being affected as they use CO2 in processing, packaging, preservation and shipment.
Image: Olive Veronesi, a 93-year-old from Pennsylvania, recently appealed for more beer on Facebook
For some Americans, the COVID-19 lockdown has already had an impact on beer supplies.
Olive Veronesi, a 93-year-old from Pennsylvania, recently went viral after a photo of her holding a sign that said "I NEED MORE BEER!!" was posted on Facebook.
The company that makes her favourite brand has now delivered 150 cans to her door.
Orion Melehan, chief executive of beverage company Life-AID in California, said two of his production partners are looking for alternative CO2 sources.
"It does have us up at night figuring out what our options are," Mr Melehan said. "It highlights the laws of unintended consequences."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
A spokeswoman for National Beverage Corp said the company sources from a number of national CO2 suppliers and does not anticipate a supply issue.
The Coca-Cola Company, SodaStream owner PepsiCo Inc, wine and beer seller Constellation Brands Inc and several bottling companies have not publicly commented on whether they will be affected by the shortage.
However, Denmark-based Carlsberg Group said that the company is "almost self-sufficient".
"We, in line with our sustainability program, create our own CO2 and capture it during the brewing process," spokesman Kasper Elbjorn said.


skynewsus--2020-04-19--Actor has leg amputated after COVID-19 complications

Broadway actor Nick Cordero has had his right leg amputated after suffering complications due to coronavirus , his wife has confirmed .
Since the end of March , the 41-year-old has been in hospital in Los Angeles , where he was initially diagnosed with pneumonia before testing positive for COVID-19 .
A Tony-nominated actor , Cordero had moved to California with his family to star in musical Rock Of Ages .
While being treated in intensive care , a drop in blood pressure led him being placed on life support and he has remained unconscious ever since .
His wife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updates on social media about the condition of the star who has been on a ventilator at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre .
In an Instagram story on Saturday , she said : `` He made it through the surgery which is really big , because obviously his body 's pretty weak .
`` They 're taking him back to the room to recover and rest , so hopefully he 'll just kind of relax and rest . ''
Cordero underwent initial surgery to help with `` blood flow issues coming down to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said : `` We do n't know what the damage will be .
We do n't know if he 'll be able to walk again . ''
However , on Saturday she confirmed they had received `` difficult news '' , as the blood thinners Cordero had been given to combat clotting in his leg had sparked internal bleeding in his intestines .
The decision was then taken to stop the blood thinners and amputate his leg .
In an earlier post , Kloots had asked for a miracle and expressed frustration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to him .
She wrote : `` I just wish I could see him .
Hold his hand .
Touch his face .
I do believe this would help him wake up ! ''
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A fitness instructor , Kloots has been leading nightly dance and sing-along sessions to help `` # WakeUpNick '' .
The couple have a 10-month-old baby together , Elvis .
A month ago , the Canadian actor posted a photo of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , writing : `` These days I 'm counting my blessings… This one is top of the list '' .
Cordero had been starring in Rock Of Ages before theatres across America were closed due to coronavirus .
He has also performed in musicals Waitress and A Bronx tale , and appeared in US detective drama Blue Bloods .
A GoFundMe page has been set up by friends of the actor to raise money to help with his medical bills .
It has swiftly neared its $ 250,000 ( £200,000 ) target .

Broadway actor Nick Cordero has had his right leg amputated after suffering complications due to coronavirus, his wife has confirmed.
Since the end of March, the 41-year-old has been in hospital in Los Angeles, where he was initially diagnosed with pneumonia before testing positive for COVID-19.
Image: Cordero moved to Los Angeles to star in Rock Of Ages
A Tony-nominated actor, Cordero had moved to California with his family to star in musical Rock Of Ages.
While being treated in intensive care, a drop in blood pressure led him being placed on life support and he has remained unconscious ever since.
His wife Amanda Kloots has been posting regular health updates on social media about the condition of the star who has been on a ventilator at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre.
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In an Instagram story on Saturday, she said: "He made it through the surgery which is really big, because obviously his body's pretty weak.
"They're taking him back to the room to recover and rest, so hopefully he'll just kind of relax and rest."
Cordero underwent initial surgery to help with "blood flow issues coming down to his foot".
At the time, she said: "We don't know what the damage will be. We don't know if he'll be able to walk again."
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However, on Saturday she confirmed they had received "difficult news", as the blood thinners Cordero had been given to combat clotting in his leg had sparked internal bleeding in his intestines.
The decision was then taken to stop the blood thinners and amputate his leg.
In an earlier post, Kloots had asked for a miracle and expressed frustration at not being able to be close to him.
She wrote: "I just wish I could see him. Hold his hand. Touch his face. I do believe this would help him wake up!"
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
A fitness instructor, Kloots has been leading nightly dance and sing-along sessions to help "#WakeUpNick".
The couple have a 10-month-old baby together, Elvis.
A month ago, the Canadian actor posted a photo of his son and wife together on her birthday, writing: "These days I'm counting my blessings… This one is top of the list".
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
Cordero had been starring in Rock Of Ages before theatres across America were closed due to coronavirus.
He has also performed in musicals Waitress and A Bronx tale, and appeared in US detective drama Blue Bloods.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by friends of the actor to raise money to help with his medical bills.
It has swiftly neared its $250,000 (£200,000) target.


skynewsus--2020-04-20--US oil price plunges below zero for first time in history over coronavirus

Oil prices in the US have crashed below zero for the first time in history as demand for energy plummeted due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The historic fall was fuelled by traders not wanting to get stuck owning crude oil with nowhere to keep it .
The dramatic decline in demand due to the COVID-19 crisis means storage facilities are nearly full .
Tanks could hit their limits within three weeks , according to analysts .
Naeem Aslam , of Avatrade , said in a report : `` The steep fall in the price is because of the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place given the fact that the production cut has failed to address the supply glut . ''
David Winans , of US Investment Grad Credit Research , said : `` Today 's price move feels like oil is passing a kidney stone .
`` A very painful move but it ca n't last for long , since producers are switching off wells as we speak . ''
He argued the demand shock from coronavirus was `` overwhelming everything '' .
Mr Winans added : `` Ultimately , the path for oil prices is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus .
`` Until demand shows some sign of life , oil prices will likely remain on life support . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The plunge into negative territory led to the bizarre situation where traders were being paid more than $ 40 to buy a barrel of oil .
Oil in the US is traded on a `` future '' contract and whoever owns it when it expires is obliged to take delivery of the barrel .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , traders scrambled to offload their barrels , so they were not left to pick up oil which they do not have the ability to collect .
It meant they were willing to pay a lot of money to anyone willing to take the product off their hands .
Normally traders have no problem selling their contracts to a refinery , or other business that wants oil , before the deadline .
But international demand has dropped significantly in recent weeks , leading to the market being flooded by oil .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take any more , final buyers are difficult to find .
However , the collapse is unlikely to lead directly to significant discounts for drivers at the pumps .
The price of Brent crude - the international price - is still around the $ 25 mark .
US President Donald Trump has responded by promising to top up the nation 's emergency crude oil stockpile .
The Department of Energy is leasing some of the roughly 77 million barrels of available space in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to US oil companies to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This movement is all about what is going on in financial markets as much as the oil market .
The May futures contract in ( West Texas Intermediate crude ) expires at 1430 eastern time Tuesday and , at that point , anyone still holding that contract at expiry will be obliged to take delivery of 1,000 barrels of crude .
As storage in the US is running at full capacity , and no refineries want to take delivery of that crude either , the holders of those contracts are falling over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the extent of paying people to take those contracts off their hands .
Hence the negative price .
It is important to note that the price of the June WTI contract is $ 21 a barrel , the July contract is $ 27 and the August contract is $ 29 - so this movement in the May contract , while extraordinary , does not mean oil is valueless .
That 's also why the share price of oil companies has not collapsed in sympathy - for example , Exxon Mobil , America 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just 4 % or so on the session .
It is also worth noting that Brent Crude - the benchmark in other parts of the world - is still trading at around $ 25 or so because there is storage space elsewhere around the world and big oil importers like China , India and South Korea , are still happy to buy and stockpile Brent .
That said , if the supply and demand imbalances in oil persist , they too will quickly run out of storage capacity if they end up being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that imbalance between supply and demand is likely to persist , at least in the near term .
The OPEC cartel and other producers , including Russia , are planning to cut production by nearly 10 million barrels per day in May .
However , according to the International Energy Agency , demand has fallen by more than twice that amount due to the lockdowns around the world .
That 'demand destruction ' , in the jargon , means that there will continue to be downward pressure on prices at least in the @ @ @

Oil prices in the US have crashed below zero for the first time in history as demand for energy plummeted due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The historic fall was fuelled by traders not wanting to get stuck owning crude oil with nowhere to keep it.
The dramatic decline in demand due to the COVID-19 crisis means storage facilities are nearly full.
Tanks could hit their limits within three weeks, according to analysts, who said the price crash in West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for May delivery reflected a massive glut of oil.
The price fell as low as -$40 a barrel.
David Winans, of US Investment Grad Credit Research, said: "Today's price move feels like oil is passing a kidney stone.
"A very painful move but it can't last for long, since producers are switching off wells as we speak."
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The plunge into negative territory led to the bizarre situation where traders were being paid at least $40 to buy a barrel of oil.
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Oil in the US is traded on a "future" contract and whoever owns it when it expires is obliged to take delivery of the barrel.
With the deadline for May contracts up on Tuesday, traders scrambled to offload their barrels, so they were not left to pick up oil which they do not have the ability to collect.
It meant they were willing to pay a lot of money to anyone willing to take the product off their hands.
Normally traders have no problem selling their contracts to a refinery, or other business that wants oil, before the deadline.
But international demand has dropped significantly in recent weeks, leading to the market being flooded by oil.
With many storage sites full and unable to take any more, final buyers are difficult to find.
WTI crude for May delivery was trading at just $1.5 a barrel on Tuesday morning.
That was after US President Donald Trump responded by promising to top up the nation's emergency crude oil stockpile.
The Department of Energy is leasing some of the roughly 77 million barrels of available space in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to US oil companies to help them deal with lack of commercial storage.
The price collapse will not lead directly to significant discounts for drivers at the pumps in the UK.
That is because the price of Brent crude - the international benchmark - is still around the $25 mark.


skynewsus--2020-04-20--New York governor says frontline workers should get 'hazard pay'

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says frontline workers should be given federal `` hazard pay '' during the coronavirus outbreak .
Speaking at his daily press briefing , Governor Cuomo said healthcare staff and police officers were among workers who he thought should be given additional money by the US government .
He went on to praise cleaning staff and delivery drivers for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker '' 'Thanks ' is nice , but also recognition of their efforts and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
`` They 're the ones who are carrying us through the crisis and this crisis is not over . ''
Mr Cuomo said that 40 % of frontline workers in New York are people of colour and deserve to be paid more .
`` If you look at who they are and the equity and fairness of what has happened , I think any reasonable person would say we should right this wrong , '' he said .
The United States currently has over 750,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Johns Hopkins University .
Stay-at-home orders have been imposed by leaders in 42 states , including New York , which has seen the highest number of cases , as political leaders try to prevent the virus spreading further .
Earlier on Monday the Mayor of New York City Bill de Blasio said all non-essential events in the city would be cancelled until the end of June .
The lockdowns have not met with universal support however , with protests taking place in several states against the strict new measures .
President Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ break the rules , calling on his supporters to `` liberate '' states from lockdown .
Speaking at the briefing , Governor Cuomo said he understood why people were angry about the situation .
`` You do n't need protests to convince anyone in this country that we have get back to work and we have to get the economy going and we have to get out of our homes .
Nobody , '' he said .
But , he added , lifting the restrictions had to be done carefully in order to @ @ @ @

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says frontline workers should be given federal "hazard pay" during the coronavirus outbreak.
Speaking at his daily press briefing, Governor Cuomo said healthcare staff and police officers were among workers who he thought should be given additional money by the US government.
He went on to praise cleaning staff and delivery drivers for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
"'Thanks' is nice, but also recognition of their efforts and they're sacrifice is also appropriate," he said.
"They're the ones who are carrying us through the crisis and this crisis is not over."
Image: Mr Cuomo says lifting the restrictions has to be done carefully
Mr Cuomo said that 40% of frontline workers in New York are people of colour and deserve to be paid more.
"If you look at who they are and the equity and fairness of what has happened, I think any reasonable person would say we should right this wrong," he said.
The United States currently has over 750,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and more than 40,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.
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Stay-at-home orders have been imposed by leaders in 42 states, including New York, which has seen the highest number of cases, as political leaders try to prevent the virus spreading further.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds of people gathered outside the governor's residence in Minnesota, to protest the state's coronavirus-related lockdown measures.
Earlier on Monday the Mayor of New York City Bill de Blasio said all non-essential events in the city would be cancelled until the end of June.
The lockdowns have not met with universal support however, with protests taking place in several states against the strict new measures.
President Trump has even appeared to encourage people to break the rules, calling on his supporters to "liberate" states from lockdown.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:49 Robert De Niro has shared a message thanking NY healthcare workers
Speaking at the briefing, Governor Cuomo said he understood why people were angry about the situation.
"You don't need protests to convince anyone in this country that we have get back to work and we have to get the economy going and we have to get out of our homes. Nobody," he said.
But, he added, lifting the restrictions had to be done carefully in order to prevent further outbreaks.


skynewsus--2020-04-21--Trump to 'temporarily suspend immigration' to US due to COVID-19

Donald Trump has vowed to `` temporarily suspend immigration '' into the US due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The US president wrote on Twitter : `` In light of the attack from the Invisible Enemy , as well as the need to protect the jobs of our GREAT American Citizens , I will be signing an Executive Order to temporarily suspend immigration into the United States ! ''
He did not give further details , however , and the White House did not clarify .
Reaction was mixed , with former Democratic presidential candidate Julian Castro tweeting : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our nation 's already weakened economy .
What a dumb move . ''
But Thomas Homan , Mr Trump 's former acting director of US immigration and customs enforcement , said : `` It makes sense to protect opportunities for our workforce while this pandemic plays out .
`` It 's really not about immigration - it 's about the pandemic and keeping our country safer while protecting opportunities for unemployed Americans . ''
It comes as COVID-19 continues to tighten its grip on the US .
More than 785,000 people have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 42,000 have died .
The virus has also hit the economy and seen more than 22 million people apply for unemployment benefits in the last month .
Due to measures taken to limit the virus 's spread , almost all visa processing by the State Department has been suspended for the past few weeks .
Mr Trump 's anti-immigration move comes as he continues to push for the re-opening of the US economy .
This is despite Dr Anthony Fauci , the government 's top infectious-disease expert , warning on ABC : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control , the real recovery economically is not going to happen . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Georgia 's governor , Brian Kemp , plans to restart his state 's economy before the end of next week and Texas has started to reopen , beginning with state parks and saying that stores will be able to provide some services later this week .
Tennessee 's governor , Bill Lee , has said businesses there will start reopening as early as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not cover some of the largest cities .
Elective surgery will resume under certain rules in West Virginia , and Colorado 's stay-at-home order expires next week .
But many other governors said their states did not have enough testing supplies , leaving them vulnerable to a second wave of infections .

Donald Trump has vowed to "temporarily suspend immigration" into the US due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The US president wrote on Twitter: "In light of the attack from the Invisible Enemy, as well as the need to protect the jobs of our GREAT American Citizens, I will be signing an Executive Order to temporarily suspend immigration into the United States!"
He did not give further details, however, and the White House did not clarify.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:06 New York's governor blasts Trump over funding
Reaction was mixed, with former Democratic presidential candidate Julian Castro tweeting: "You cut off immigration, you crater our nation's already weakened economy. What a dumb move."
But Thomas Homan, Mr Trump's former acting director of US immigration and customs enforcement, said: "It makes sense to protect opportunities for our workforce while this pandemic plays out.
"It's really not about immigration - it's about the pandemic and keeping our country safer while protecting opportunities for unemployed Americans."
It comes as COVID-19 continues to tighten its grip on the US. More than 785,000 people have been confirmed as having the virus and more than 42,000 have died.
The virus has also hit the economy and seen more than 22 million people apply for unemployment benefits in the last month.
Due to measures taken to limit the virus's spread, almost all visa processing by the State Department has been suspended for the past few weeks.
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This includes visas for immigrants.
Mr Trump's anti-immigration move comes as he continues to push for the re-opening of the US economy.
This is despite Dr Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious-disease expert, warning on ABC: "Unless we get the virus under control, the real recovery economically is not going to happen."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Georgia's governor, Brian Kemp, plans to restart his state's economy before the end of next week and Texas has started to reopen, beginning with state parks and saying that stores will be able to provide some services later this week.
Tennessee's governor, Bill Lee, has said businesses there will start reopening as early as next week, although the order did not cover some of the largest cities.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 Hundreds gather to protest lockdown in Minnesota
Elective surgery will resume under certain rules in West Virginia, and Colorado's stay-at-home order expires next week.
But many other governors said their states did not have enough testing supplies, leaving them vulnerable to a second wave of infections.


skynewsus--2020-04-21--Kobe Bryant helicopter crash: Families of victims file lawsuits

Family members of four passengers killed alongside Kobe Bryant and his daughter in a helicopter crash have joined the basketball star 's widow in suing the owners of the aircraft .
Bryant , 41 , Gianna , 13 , and seven others , including the pilot , died in the crash in Calabasas , north of Los Angeles , in foggy conditions in January .
The NBA star 's widow , Vanessa , launched a lawsuit in February , suing Island Express Helicopters Inc , which operated the aircraft , and its owner Island Express Holding Corp. Now , relatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further wrongful death lawsuits against the owners and operators of the helicopter .
One has been submitted by two children of John Altobelli , an Orange Coast College baseball coach who died alongside his wife Keri and their daughter Alyssa , who played basketball with Gianna .
The husband and three children of Christina Mauser , who helped Mr Bryant coach the girls ' basketball team , have filed the other lawsuit .
While Vanessa Bryant 's case names the dead pilot , Ara Zobayan , and his representative as defendants , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claims the pilot was careless and negligent to fly given the cloudy weather conditions , and that the flight should have been aborted .
All the cases allege that the two companies were careless and negligent .
Island Express Helicopters has been contacted by the Associated Press news agency , and a worker who answered the phone reportedly declined to comment on the cases .
An email from the news agency requesting comment was not immediately returned .
The crash happened on 26 January , as the group was travelling to a youth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down into the mountainside in thick fog .
An initial National Transportation Safety Board ( NTSB ) report said there were no signs of engine failure from the wreckage recovered .
`` Viewable sections of the engines showed no evidence of an uncontained or catastrophic internal failure , '' the NTSB said in the interim report .
Mr Zobayan , 50 , had more than 8,200 hours of flight time and had nearly navigated the helicopter out of clouds when the aircraft suddenly turned and went down .
Weather conditions including heavy clouds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vicinity of the crash were clearly a problem , as audio from air traffic control and 911 calls have confirmed .
Also killed in the crash were Sarah Chester and her daughter Payton , who was another of Gianna 's teammates .

Family members of four passengers killed alongside Kobe Bryant and his daughter in a helicopter crash have joined the basketball star's widow in suing the owners of the aircraft.
Bryant, 41, Gianna, 13, and seven others, including the pilot, died in the crash in Calabasas, north of Los Angeles, in foggy conditions in January.
The NBA star's widow, Vanessa, launched a lawsuit in February, suing Island Express Helicopters Inc, which operated the aircraft, and its owner Island Express Holding Corp.
Image: Baseball coach John Altobelli and his wife and daughter were killed in the crash - his family held a memorial service in February
Image: Victim Christina Mauser's husband is among the relatives who have filed lawsuits. Pic: Matt Mauser/Facebook
Now, relatives of four other victims have filed two further wrongful death lawsuits against the owners and operators of the helicopter.
One has been submitted by two children of John Altobelli, an Orange Coast College baseball coach who died alongside his wife Keri and their daughter Alyssa, who played basketball with Gianna.
The husband and three children of Christina Mauser, who helped Mr Bryant coach the girls' basketball team, have filed the other lawsuit.
While Vanessa Bryant's case names the dead pilot, Ara Zobayan, and his representative as defendants, the new cases do not.
Mrs Bryant claims the pilot was careless and negligent to fly given the cloudy weather conditions, and that the flight should have been aborted.
All the cases allege that the two companies were careless and negligent.
Island Express Helicopters has been contacted by the Associated Press news agency, and a worker who answered the phone reportedly declined to comment on the cases. An email from the news agency requesting comment was not immediately returned.
Image: Vanessa and Kobe Bryant married in 2001
Image: Pilot Ara Zobayan also died in the crash
The crash happened on 26 January, as the group was travelling to a youth basketball tournament, with the helicopter plunging down into the mountainside in thick fog.
An initial National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report said there were no signs of engine failure from the wreckage recovered.
"Viewable sections of the engines showed no evidence of an uncontained or catastrophic internal failure," the NTSB said in the interim report.
Mr Zobayan, 50, had more than 8,200 hours of flight time and had nearly navigated the helicopter out of clouds when the aircraft suddenly turned and went down.
Weather conditions including heavy clouds, fog and limited visibility reported in the vicinity of the crash were clearly a problem, as audio from air traffic control and 911 calls have confirmed.
Also killed in the crash were Sarah Chester and her daughter Payton, who was another of Gianna's teammates.