skynewsus--2020-02-04--Iowa caucus chaos: Trump calls it an 'unmitigated disaster' but what caused it?

Iowa caucus chaos : Trump called it an 'unmitigated disaster ' but what caused it ?
Iowa caucus chaos : Trump called it an 'unmitigated disaster ' but what caused it ?
The Democratic Party had to resort to manual systems in order to verify vote counts A coding error in the app used by the Democratic Party in Iowa has been blamed for significant delays in reporting the results of the state 's caucus .
The new app was developed so caucus results - the votes of Democratic Party members for their preferred presidential candidate - could be reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But instead of speeding things up a coding error in the app led to the data being only partially reported , forcing the Democratic Party to resort to manual systems in order to verify vote counts .
The results are now expected at 5pm local time ( 10pm UK time ) on Tuesday .
Shadow , the company which developed the app , posted on Twitter : `` We sincerely regret the delay in the reporting of the results of last night 's Iowa caucuses , and the uncertainty it has caused to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caucus-goers . ''
The app developer continued in another post : `` Importantly , this issue did not affect the underlying caucus results data .
`` We worked as quickly as possible overnight to resolve this issue , and the IDP has worked diligently to verify results . ''
The chairman for the Iowa Democratic Party , Troy Price , had earlier said : `` As part of our investigation , we determined with certainty that the underlying data collected via the app was sound .
`` While the app was recording data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partial data .
We have determined that this was due to a coding issue in the reporting system .
This issue was identified and fixed . ''
Despite the issue being fixed , Mr Price declined to say that the results of the caucus would be reported on Tuesday .
The results will be the first indication of who Democratic Party members believe will best be able to challenge Donald Trump in the presidential election later this year .
Initial results were delayed due to `` inconsistencies '' causing widespread confusion among the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to explain that its voting app was n't hacked or interfered with .
`` We have every indication that our systems were secure and there was not a cyber security intrusion , '' Mr Price said .
`` In preparation for the caucuses , our systems were tested by independent cyber security consultants . ''
The embarrassing situation was seized on by Donald Trump , who described it as an `` unmitigated disaster '' on Twitter while celebrating the incident as an example of his opponents ' incompetence .
The blundering start to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democratic candidates , with both Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg claiming their own figures suggested they had won the state .
`` I do n't think there 's a person in the country more impatient than I am [ to get official results ] , '' Mr Buttigieg told MSNBC .
`` I have a strong feeling that at some point the results will be announced , and when those results are announced I have a good feeling we 're going to be doing very , very well here in Iowa , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @

A coding error in the app used by the Democratic Party in Iowa has been blamed for significant delays in reporting the results of the state's caucus.
The new app was developed so caucus results - the votes of Democratic Party members for their preferred presidential candidate - could be reported more quickly following Monday's vote.
But instead of speeding things up a coding error in the app led to the data being only partially reported, forcing the Democratic Party to resort to manual systems in order to verify vote counts.
The results are now expected at 5pm local time (10pm UK time) on Tuesday.
Shadow, the company which developed the app, posted on Twitter: "We sincerely regret the delay in the reporting of the results of last night's Iowa caucuses, and the uncertainty it has caused to candidates, their campaigns, and Democratic caucus-goers."
The app developer continued in another post: "Importantly, this issue did not affect the underlying caucus results data.
"We worked as quickly as possible overnight to resolve this issue, and the IDP has worked diligently to verify results."
The chairman for the Iowa Democratic Party, Troy Price, had earlier said: "As part of our investigation, we determined with certainty that the underlying data collected via the app was sound.
"While the app was recording data accurately, it was reporting out only partial data. We have determined that this was due to a coding issue in the reporting system. This issue was identified and fixed."
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Despite the issue being fixed, Mr Price declined to say that the results of the caucus would be reported on Tuesday.
The results will be the first indication of who Democratic Party members believe will best be able to challenge Donald Trump in the presidential election later this year.
Initial results were delayed due to "inconsistencies" causing widespread confusion among the campaigns, with the party being forced to explain that its voting app wasn't hacked or interfered with.
"We have every indication that our systems were secure and there was not a cyber security intrusion," Mr Price said. "In preparation for the caucuses, our systems were tested by independent cyber security consultants."
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The embarrassing situation was seized on by Donald Trump, who described it as an "unmitigated disaster" on Twitter while celebrating the incident as an example of his opponents' incompetence.
The blundering start to voting was accompanied by mixed messages from Democratic candidates, with both Bernie Sanders and Pete Buttigieg claiming their own figures suggested they had won the state.
"I don't think there's a person in the country more impatient than I am [to get official results]," Mr Buttigieg told MSNBC.
"I have a strong feeling that at some point the results will be announced, and when those results are announced I have a good feeling we're going to be doing very, very well here in Iowa," Mr Sanders told his cheering supporters.


skynewsus--2020-02-04--Hamilton cinema release after Disney buys it for 'record amount'

The record-breaking musical will be screened in cinemas in 2021 Hip-hop musical Hamilton is set to be shown in cinemas next year after Disney bought a recording of the stage show for a reported record amount .
Disney picked up the ground-breaking production for $ 75m ( £57.5m ) after seeing off competition from other potential suitors thought to include Netflix and Warner Bros , according to Deadline .
And it is believed to be the most expensive acquisition of a film ever made .
Rather than being a brand new movie based on the show , the broadcast is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ production , performed by the original US cast , filmed across three nights at the Richard Rogers theatre .
Announcing the long-awaited news that the recording will be released , the show 's creator Lin-Manuel Miranda tweeted : `` Disney presents : Hamilton .
With The Original Broadway Cast .
Filmed onstage at The Richard Rodgers Theatre .
In A Theatre Near You .
October 15 , 2021 .
# Hamilfilm . ''
Outgoing Disney chief executive Bob Iger said : `` Lin-Manuel Miranda created an unforgettable theatre experience and a true cultural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reason that Hamilton was hailed as an astonishing work of art .
`` All who saw it with the original cast will never forget that singular experience .
`` And we 're thrilled to have the opportunity to share this same Broadway experience with millions of people around the world . ''
Disney has also confirmed that once the film has been released in cinemas , it will be placed on to its streaming platform Disney+ .
Created , devised and written by Lin-Manuel Miranda , the show follows the story of US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ roots in the Caribbean , through the war of independence , his rise into government , and finally his downfall to a soundtrack inspired by hip-hop and rap .
It also features a cast intentionally made up almost entirely of people of colour , symbolising the way `` America looks now '' , according to Miranda .
Hamilton , which has won 11 Tony awards and seven Olivier awards , has grossed hundreds of millions of dollars globally since its debut off-Broadway in 2015 .
The acquisition may come as a relief to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the US and London regularly costing more than £200 for a premium seat - and often more .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Productions of the show are currently running on Broadway and in London 's West End , as well as several US national tours .
There are also plans for new runs in Australia and Germany .
Lin Manuel-Miranda is a man in demand in Hollywood .
As well as Hamilton , he is about to release a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Heights .
He has also been collaborating with Disney on films such as Moana , Mary Poppins Returns and the upcoming Little Mermaid reboot .

Hip-hop musical Hamilton is set to be shown in cinemas next year after Disney bought a recording of the stage show for a reported record amount.
Disney picked up the ground-breaking production for $75m (£57.5m) after seeing off competition from other potential suitors thought to include Netflix and Warner Bros, according to Deadline.
And it is believed to be the most expensive acquisition of a film ever made.
Rather than being a brand new movie based on the show, the broadcast is an exclusive recording of the Broadway stage production, performed by the original US cast, filmed across three nights at the Richard Rogers theatre.
Image: The film will feature the original Broadway cast
Announcing the long-awaited news that the recording will be released, the show's creator Lin-Manuel Miranda tweeted: "Disney presents: Hamilton. With The Original Broadway Cast. Filmed onstage at The Richard Rodgers Theatre. In A Theatre Near You. October 15, 2021. #Hamilfilm."
Outgoing Disney chief executive Bob Iger said: "Lin-Manuel Miranda created an unforgettable theatre experience and a true cultural phenomenon, and it was for good reason that Hamilton was hailed as an astonishing work of art.
"All who saw it with the original cast will never forget that singular experience.
"And we're thrilled to have the opportunity to share this same Broadway experience with millions of people around the world."
Disney has also confirmed that once the film has been released in cinemas, it will be placed on to its streaming platform Disney+.
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Created, devised and written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the show follows the story of US founding father Alexander Hamilton, from his roots in the Caribbean, through the war of independence, his rise into government, and finally his downfall to a soundtrack inspired by hip-hop and rap.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:01 2017: Hamilton comes to the West End
It also features a cast intentionally made up almost entirely of people of colour, symbolising the way "America looks now", according to Miranda.
Hamilton, which has won 11 Tony awards and seven Olivier awards, has grossed hundreds of millions of dollars globally since its debut off-Broadway in 2015.
The acquisition may come as a relief to theatre fans, with tickets for productions in the US and London regularly costing more than £200 for a premium seat - and often more.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Productions of the show are currently running on Broadway and in London's West End, as well as several US national tours. There are also plans for new runs in Australia and Germany.
Lin Manuel-Miranda is a man in demand in Hollywood. As well as Hamilton, he is about to release a movie adaptation of his first musical In The Heights.
He has also been collaborating with Disney on films such as Moana, Mary Poppins Returns and the upcoming Little Mermaid reboot.


skynewsus--2020-02-04--Lady Gaga confirms new romance after posting Instagram photo

Lady Gaga was pictured with investor Michael Polansky after the Super Bowl Lady Gaga has confirmed her new relationship - after a social media post made it Instagram official .
Following weeks of speculation , the US singer posted the image of her cuddling entrepreneur and investor Michael Polansky on Monday evening .
The couple were photographed leaving the Super Bowl together on Sunday , having first been pictured looking close in December .
In her post , Oscar-winner Gaga , 33 , said they had `` so much fun '' in Miami for the Super Bowl - which she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Love to all my little monsters and fans , you 're the best ! ''
she added .
In her Instagram photo , Gaga - whose real name is Stefani Germanotta - is seated on Polansky 's lap , with the sea in the background .
According to his LinkedIn page , Polansky is a Harvard University graduate and chief executive of the San Francisco-based Parker Group , a role he has held for more than 10 years .
Gaga split from her fiance Christian Carino last year .
The break-up came after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Born co-star Bradley Cooper at the Oscars , which sparked much speculation that they were in a relationship .
Cooper also split up from Irina Shayk , his girlfriend of four years , last year .
The Oscars duet of their hit song Shallow saw Gaga staring into Cooper 's eyes across a piano before he joined her at her seat .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Both Gaga and Cooper denied being romantically involved , with Gaga saying in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Oscars performance had been meticulously planned and that the pair `` wanted people to believe that we were in love '' .
`` In truth , when we talked about it , we went , 'well , I guess we did a good job ! '
'' Gaga told the magazine .

Lady Gaga has confirmed her new relationship - after a social media post made it Instagram official.
Following weeks of speculation, the US singer posted the image of her cuddling entrepreneur and investor Michael Polansky on Monday evening.
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The couple were photographed leaving the Super Bowl together on Sunday, having first been pictured looking close in December.
In her post, Oscar-winner Gaga, 33, said they had "so much fun" in Miami for the Super Bowl - which she performed at herself in 2017.
"Love to all my little monsters and fans, you're the best!" she added.
In her Instagram photo, Gaga - whose real name is Stefani Germanotta - is seated on Polansky's lap, with the sea in the background.
According to his LinkedIn page, Polansky is a Harvard University graduate and chief executive of the San Francisco-based Parker Group, a role he has held for more than 10 years.
Gaga split from her fiance Christian Carino last year.
The break-up came after her duet with her A Star Is Born co-star Bradley Cooper at the Oscars, which sparked much speculation that they were in a relationship.
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Image: Gaga's performance with her A Star Is Born co-star Bradley Cooper at the Oscars caused much speculation
Cooper also split up from Irina Shayk, his girlfriend of four years, last year.
The Oscars duet of their hit song Shallow saw Gaga staring into Cooper's eyes across a piano before he joined her at her seat.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Both Gaga and Cooper denied being romantically involved, with Gaga saying in an interview with Elle magazine in November that the Oscars performance had been meticulously planned and that the pair "wanted people to believe that we were in love".
"In truth, when we talked about it, we went, 'well, I guess we did a good job!'" Gaga told the magazine.


skynewsus--2020-03-29--Coronavirus outbreak 'may kill 200,000 Americans' as Trump reveals expected peak

Donald Trump has said coronavirus deaths in the US are expected to peak in two weeks - as his top scientific adviser warned the outbreak could kill up to 200,000 Americans .
The US president announced he was extending the 15-day period of social distancing in the country , which was due to expire on Monday , until 30 April .
In a briefing at the White House , Mr Trump said his remarks last week that he wanted the US economy running again by Easter were `` aspirational '' .
`` The modelling estimates that the peak in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two weeks , '' he said .
`` The better you do , the faster this whole nightmare will end .
Therefore we 'll be extending our guidelines to April 30th to slow the spread . ''
The US has the most coronavirus cases in the world , with more than 136,000 suspected and confirmed infections , according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the outbreak .
More than 2,400 people who have contracted COVID-19 have died in the US .
At least 1,026 deaths have been recorded in New York @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against large group gatherings and urge older people and anyone with existing health problems to stay at home .
People are urged to work at home when possible and avoid restaurants , bars , non-essential travel and shopping trips .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Dr Anthony Fauci , director of America 's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , has warned the COVID-19 outbreak could kill 100,000 to 200,000 Americans .
Speaking at the White House briefing on Sunday , Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration 's coronavirus task force - said the projection was `` entirely conceivable '' if not enough is done to mitigate the crisis .
Mr Trump said projection models had showed potentially 2.2 million people could have died had the US not put social distancing measures in place .
He added that the country would be doing well if it `` can hold '' the number of deaths `` down to 100,000 '' .
`` We all together have done a very good job . ''
Mr Trump claimed that some hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ventilators which are in scarce supply across the US .
`` We have to release those ventilators - especially hospitals that are never going to use them , '' he told reporters .
The president said he also wanted the governor and mayor of New York to check why `` a hospital that 's getting 10,000 masks goes to 300,000 masks during the same period '' , adding : `` I think people should check that because there 's something going on .
`` I do n't think it 's hoarding , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
He added : `` We 're delivering millions and millions of different products and all we do is hear : 'Can you get some more ? '
'' Mr Trump said the US had 10,000 ventilators which are being held in a case of emergencies in different states .
The president - who has previously tested negative for coronavirus - also said he would be willing take the test again `` if appropriate '' .

Donald Trump has said coronavirus deaths in the US are expected to peak in two weeks - as his top scientific adviser warned the outbreak could kill up to 200,000 Americans.
The US president announced he was extending the 15-day period of social distancing in the country, which was due to expire on Monday, until 30 April.
In a briefing at the White House, Mr Trump said his remarks last week that he wanted the US economy running again by Easter were "aspirational".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:32 Coronavirus numbers 'beyond staggering', Cuomo tells Sky News
Image: Donald Trump gave a briefing in the White House rose garden
"The modelling estimates that the peak in the death rate is likely to hit in two weeks," he said.
"The better you do, the faster this whole nightmare will end. Therefore we'll be extending our guidelines to April 30th to slow the spread."
The US has the most coronavirus cases in the world, with more than 136,000 suspected and confirmed infections, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak.
More than 2,400 people who have contracted COVID-19 have died in the US. At least 1,026 deaths have been recorded in New York.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 March 24: Trump 'hopeful' people can work again by Easter
The US government's guidelines recommend against large group gatherings and urge older people and anyone with existing health problems to stay at home.
People are urged to work at home when possible and avoid restaurants, bars, non-essential travel and shopping trips.
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Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Dr Anthony Fauci, director of America's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has warned the COVID-19 outbreak could kill 100,000 to 200,000 Americans.
Speaking at the White House briefing on Sunday, Dr Fauci - a leading figure in the Trump administration's coronavirus task force - said the projection was "entirely conceivable" if not enough is done to mitigate the crisis.
Image: Donald Trump listens to Dr Anthony Fauci
Mr Trump said projection models had showed potentially 2.2 million people could have died had the US not put social distancing measures in place.
He added that the country would be doing well if it "can hold" the number of deaths "down to 100,000".
"It's a horrible number," Mr Trump said.
"We all together have done a very good job."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:25 Funeral home where phone won't stop ringing
Mr Trump claimed that some hospitals and healthcare workers were "hoarding" ventilators which are in scarce supply across the US.
"We have to release those ventilators - especially hospitals that are never going to use them," he told reporters.
The president said he also wanted the governor and mayor of New York to check why "a hospital that's getting 10,000 masks goes to 300,000 masks during the same period", adding: "I think people should check that because there's something going on.
"I don't think it's hoarding, I think it's maybe worse than hoarding."
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 added: "We're delivering millions and millions of different products and all we do is hear: 'Can you get some more?'"
Mr Trump said the US had 10,000 ventilators which are being held in a case of emergencies in different states.
The president - who has previously tested negative for coronavirus - also said he would be willing take the test again "if appropriate".


skynewsus--2020-03-29--The funeral home overwhelmed by New York's conveyor belt of death

The phone does n't stop ringing at the Gerard J Nuefeld funeral home in New York City .
Those who turn up at the door look bewildered and deeply anxious .
Robert Lugo arrives sobbing into his protective mask .
He , like so many you see in this neighbourhood , is wearing gloves .
Robert is visibly shaken and it turns out his loss is especially raw .
His grandmother , Ana Diaz , died last night at Elmhurst Hospital .
The hospital is at the centre of the COVID-19 outbreak .
Staff there are exhausted dealing with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in desperately short supply .
One doctor described the situation as apocalyptic .
Robert breaks down as he tells me that this grandmother - `` the glue '' in his family - died without any family by her side .
It is an unfathomable burden for him to bear , and sadly , it is one so many are now forced to endure .
`` My grandmother died alone , '' he tells me , his voice breaking .
`` We did n't even see her and could n't touch or talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her that boost of morale to say , hey , you know , you got to come out of this .
We need you to come out of this .
There was nothing . ''
Little over a week ago , his family were all together celebrating her 80th birthday .
`` She embraced every life she touched , '' Robert says .
Now , half of her family have tested positive .
They 're not only deprived of the chance to grieve her passing , but they 're isolated and struggling with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jr is working all hours alongside his father , trying to offer dignity to the dead and support their distraught families .
`` The crematoriums really are n't letting anybody in , '' he tells me .
`` The cemeteries are , for the most part , telling people to stay in their cars and just watch the burial from the gravesite . ''
He drives us to St Michael 's Crematorium .
A family that is following him in a car behind have turned up hoping they can get in , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gates .
Instead , they 're forced to hand over their candle to Joe so he can place it next to the coffin .
He clutches it protectively in his hands as he drives through the grounds - conscious of how fleeting it feels for the relatives watching on .
`` Sometimes when it 's so brief , it almost leaves them still feeling hollow , '' Joe says .
`` Like , you know , what just happened ?
They do n't have enough time to process it .
It 's heartbreaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Back at the funeral home , his father Joseph Sr says their work has been non-stop for a fortnight .
`` It just got crazy… people are unfortunately passing away in big numbers , '' he said .
`` Because they live in this area and I 'm the only funeral home left in this area , they 're coming to me .
`` I 'm trying to accommodate them as best I can… I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And shortly after I left the office , within two hours , I had three more services .
And then this morning , as soon as we came in , we put on three or four more services . ''
I 'm struck by just how stressful their job has become .
This is a father and son who take pride and comfort in accommodating the many ceremonies and rituals this diverse neighbourhood desires .
There are more than 100 nationalities in the area - many who traditionally hold large gatherings to say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says they are trying to let individuals briefly see the caskets before they take them away , but they know they have to closely monitor numbers .
The father and son wear protective clothing when embalming the bodies .
But like all undertakers , they are vulnerable to infected bodies .
Nonetheless , they are desperately determined to help a community that 's coming to terms with being separated at the most demanding of moments - a surreal and cruel consequence of this pandemic .
Watching them work is both humbling and exhausting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus two weeks away , their days are n't getting any shorter .

The phone doesn't stop ringing at the Gerard J Nuefeld funeral home in New York City.
Those who turn up at the door look bewildered and deeply anxious. Robert Lugo arrives sobbing into his protective mask.
He, like so many you see in this neighbourhood, is wearing gloves.
Robert is visibly shaken and it turns out his loss is especially raw. His grandmother, Ana Diaz, died last night at Elmhurst Hospital.
Image: Funeral directors are trying their hardest to offer dignity to the dead
The hospital is at the centre of the COVID-19 outbreak. Staff there are exhausted dealing with the surge in patients, and protective equipment is in desperately short supply. One doctor described the situation as apocalyptic.
Robert breaks down as he tells me that this grandmother - "the glue" in his family - died without any family by her side.
It is an unfathomable burden for him to bear, and sadly, it is one so many are now forced to endure.
"My grandmother died alone," he tells me, his voice breaking. "We didn't even see her and couldn't touch or talk to her. We couldn't give her that boost of morale to say, hey, you know, you got to come out of this. We need you to come out of this. There was nothing."
Image: Ana Diaz (left) had just celebrated her 80th birthday
Little over a week ago, his family were all together celebrating her 80th birthday.
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"She embraced every life she touched," Robert says.
Now, half of her family have tested positive. They're not only deprived of the chance to grieve her passing, but they're isolated and struggling with their own symptoms too.
Joe Nuefeld Jr is working all hours alongside his father, trying to offer dignity to the dead and support their distraught families.
"The crematoriums really aren't letting anybody in," he tells me. "The cemeteries are, for the most part, telling people to stay in their cars and just watch the burial from the gravesite."
Image: New York City has been badly hit by the coronavirus pandemic
He drives us to St Michael's Crematorium.
A family that is following him in a car behind have turned up hoping they can get in, but they're not even allowed through the gates.
Instead, they're forced to hand over their candle to Joe so he can place it next to the coffin. He clutches it protectively in his hands as he drives through the grounds - conscious of how fleeting it feels for the relatives watching on.
"Sometimes when it's so brief, it almost leaves them still feeling hollow," Joe says. "Like, you know, what just happened? They don't have enough time to process it. It's heartbreaking. It's really sad."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Back at the funeral home, his father Joseph Sr says their work has been non-stop for a fortnight.
"It just got crazy… people are unfortunately passing away in big numbers," he said.
"Because they live in this area and I'm the only funeral home left in this area, they're coming to me.
"I'm trying to accommodate them as best I can… I think we had about 12 services scheduled. And shortly after I left the office, within two hours, I had three more services. And then this morning, as soon as we came in, we put on three or four more services."
Image: One doctor in New York described conditions in his hospital as 'apocalyptic'
I'm struck by just how stressful their job has become. This is a father and son who take pride and comfort in accommodating the many ceremonies and rituals this diverse neighbourhood desires.
There are more than 100 nationalities in the area - many who traditionally hold large gatherings to say goodbye to their relatives.
Joe Sr says they are trying to let individuals briefly see the caskets before they take them away, but they know they have to closely monitor numbers.
The father and son wear protective clothing when embalming the bodies. But like all undertakers, they are vulnerable to infected bodies.
Nonetheless, they are desperately determined to help a community that's coming to terms with being separated at the most demanding of moments - a surreal and cruel consequence of this pandemic. Watching them work is both humbling and exhausting.
With the predicted peak of this virus two weeks away, their days aren't getting any shorter.


skynewsus--2020-03-29--Grammy-winning country music star dies after contracting coronavirus

Grammy-winning country music star Joe Diffie has died two days after revealing he had contracted coronavirus .
The 61-year-old had a string of hits in the US in the 1990s and had two albums that went platinum .
On Friday , he announced he had tested positive for COVID-19 - the first country music star to go public with such a diagnosis .
Diffie 's publicist Scott Adkins said the singer , from Tulsa , Oklahoma , died on Sunday due to complications from the virus .
The US has the most coronavirus cases in the world , with more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the outbreak .
More than 2,400 people who have contracted COVID-19 have died in the US .
Diffe 's hits included Honky Tonk Attitude , Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox ( If I Die ) , Bigger Than The Beatles and If The Devil Danced ( In Empty Pockets ) .
His mid-90s albums Honky Tonk Attitude and Third Rock From The Sun went platinum .
A total of 18 of Diffie 's singles landed in the top 10 in the US country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one .
Diffie won a Grammy Award in 1999 for best country collaboration for the song Same Old Train with Merle Haggard , Marty Stuart and others .
His last solo album was 2010 's The Bluegrass Album : Homecoming .
Diffie is survived by his wife , Theresa Crump , and five children from his four marriages .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker

Grammy-winning country music star Joe Diffie has died two days after revealing he had contracted coronavirus.
The 61-year-old had a string of hits in the US in the 1990s and had two albums that went platinum.
On Friday, he announced he had tested positive for COVID-19 - the first country music star to go public with such a diagnosis.
Image: Diffie pictured attending the 2019 Country Music Awards
Diffie's publicist Scott Adkins said the singer, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, died on Sunday due to complications from the virus.
The US has the most coronavirus cases in the world, with more than 136,000 suspected and confirmed infections, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak.
More than 2,400 people who have contracted COVID-19 have died in the US.
Diffe's hits included Honky Tonk Attitude, Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die), Bigger Than The Beatles and If The Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets).
Image: Diffie won a Grammy Award in 1999
His mid-90s albums Honky Tonk Attitude and Third Rock From The Sun went platinum.
A total of 18 of Diffie's singles landed in the top 10 in the US country charts, with five going to number one.
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Diffie won a Grammy Award in 1999 for best country collaboration for the song Same Old Train with Merle Haggard, Marty Stuart and others.
His last solo album was 2010's The Bluegrass Album: Homecoming.
Diffie is survived by his wife, Theresa Crump, and five children from his four marriages.
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skynewsus--2020-03-29--'They must pay!' - Trump says US will not foot bill for Sussexes' security

Donald Trump says the US will not foot the bill for Harry and Meghan 's security , writing on Twitter : `` They must pay ! ''
The president 's remarks come after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved from Canada to California .
He wrote : `` I am a great friend and admirer of the Queen & the United Kingdom .
It was reported that Harry and Meghan , who left the Kingdom , would reside permanently in Canada .
`` Now they have left Canada for the U.S .
However , the U.S. will not pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay ! ''
Following the tweet , a spokesman for Harry and Meghan said : `` The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have no plans to ask the US government for security resources .
The question over how the family 's security measures should be financed has been debated ever since they moved from the UK to North America .
At the beginning of March , Canada said it was going to end its security assistance for the Sussexes and their son Archie as soon as they stepped back from royal duties .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Royal Canadian Police had been providing security for the couple since November because they are classed as `` internationally protected persons '' .
The Sussexes are now said to be living in lockdown close to Hollywood in accordance with California 's coronavirus containment measures .
The family left their rented home in Vancouver last week and took a private flight to the US before the border between the two countries closed , The Sun reported .
According to the newspaper , the move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the couple had realised Canada would `` not work out for various reasons '' .
On Thursday , Meghan 's first post-royal role was revealed : narrating a documentary for Disney .
The film , called Elephant , will be available on streaming service Disney+ from 3 April .
The duchess was a successful actress , best known for her role as Rachel Zane in Suits , before joining the Royal Family .
A charity single that Harry recorded with Jon Bon Jovi and the Invictus Games Choir was also released in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time as senior royals will officially end on 31 March as they pursue personal and financial freedom .
They will no longer be able to use their HRH styles or use Sussex Royal as their brand .

Donald Trump says the US will not foot the bill for Harry and Meghan's security, writing on Twitter: "They must pay!"
The president's remarks come after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex moved from Canada to California.
He wrote: "I am a great friend and admirer of the Queen & the United Kingdom. It was reported that Harry and Meghan, who left the Kingdom, would reside permanently in Canada.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:40 Harry and Meghan's royal farewell
"Now they have left Canada for the U.S. However, the U.S. will not pay for their security protection. They must pay!"
Following the tweet, a spokesman for Harry and Meghan said: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have no plans to ask the US government for security resources.
"Privately funded security arrangements have been made."
The question over how the family's security measures should be financed has been debated ever since they moved from the UK to North America.
At the beginning of March, Canada said it was going to end its security assistance for the Sussexes and their son Archie as soon as they stepped back from royal duties.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
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Royal Canadian Police had been providing security for the couple since November because they are classed as "internationally protected persons".
The Sussexes are now said to be living in lockdown close to Hollywood in accordance with California's coronavirus containment measures.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:37 'She really is beautiful, innit'
The family left their rented home in Vancouver last week and took a private flight to the US before the border between the two countries closed, The Sun reported.
According to the newspaper, the move was "planned for some time" as the couple had realised Canada would "not work out for various reasons".
On Thursday, Meghan's first post-royal role was revealed: narrating a documentary for Disney.
The film, called Elephant, will be available on streaming service Disney+ from 3 April.
The duchess was a successful actress, best known for her role as Rachel Zane in Suits, before joining the Royal Family.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:13 Royal children salute NHS carers
A charity single that Harry recorded with Jon Bon Jovi and the Invictus Games Choir was also released in recent days.
Harry and Meghan's time as senior royals will officially end on 31 March as they pursue personal and financial freedom.
They will no longer be able to use their HRH styles or use Sussex Royal as their brand.


skynewsus--2020-03-28--Trump decides against NY quarantine as infant dies after contracting virus

US President Donald Trump appears to have changed his mind about the possibility of imposing a quarantine on New York , New Jersey and Connecticut .
He wrote on Twitter : `` On the recommendation of the White House coronavirus task force , and upon consultation with the governors of New York , New Jersey and Connecticut , I have asked the CDC to issue a strong travel advisory , to be administered by the governors , in consultation with the federal government .
A quarantine will not be necessary . ''
It came just hours after he had told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see New York quarantined because it 's a hot spot - New York , New Jersey , maybe one or two other places ... certain parts of Connecticut quarantined .
I 'm thinking about that right now . ''
He went on : `` We might not have to do it but there is a possibility that sometime today we 'll do a quarantine , short term , two weeks for New York , probably New Jersey , certain parts of Connecticut . ''
The number of deaths in New York has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of cases now recorded at 52,318 , most of them in New York City .
Mr Trump 's words came shortly before it was confirmed that a child under the age of one had died in Chicago after contracting the virus .
Illinois Department of Public Health director Dr Ngozi Ezike said : `` There has never before been a death associated with COVID-19 in an infant .
A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of death .
`` We must do everything we can to prevent the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to protect ourselves , but to protect those around us . ''
Meanwhile , the governor of New York , Andrew Cuomo , said the price of ventilators in the US had almost doubled from $ 25,000 to $ 45,000 - driven up because each state is competing against the others to buy them .
Insisting the US has merely been reactive and failed to plan ahead , he said : `` We have been behind this virus from day one . ''
Saying he is trying to stockpile medical supplies before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` You do n't win on defence , you win on offence .
You have to get ahead of this . ''
Mr Cuomo also insisted the pandemic was `` not a sprint my friends , this is a marathon '' but also said people should try and `` find a silver lining in all of this '' .
`` Who 's painting their house because they never had time to paint their house before , who 's working on a project that they never got to - who 's reading @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do , who 's writing a book ? ''
He continued : `` I 've had conversations with my daughters , hours-long conversations where it 's just us , just us talking , no place to go , she does n't have to go to work , she does n't have to run out , and they 're priceless .
`` You 'll never get the opportunity in life to do that again .
We 're going to get through this and they 're going to go off and find a boyfriend and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it 's terrible and I 'm not trying to say it 's not a terrible circumstance , but even in a terrible circumstance , if you look hard enough , you can find a little ray , a few rays of light , and people are doing it and I think we all should .
`` It 's going to be a marathon , but we 're going to get through it . ''
Meanwhile , non-coronavirus patients on the west coast of the US are set to be transferred onto a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Angeles to help the city 's overburdened hospitals .
A handful of patients will be taken to the USNS Mercy , one of the navy 's two hospital ships , on Saturday as the Californian city struggles to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak .
The captain of the ship , which has 1,100 hospital beds , said they would gradually take on more patients over time to free up space in hospitals for coronavirus patients .
The Mercy 's 1,000 sailors , of which two-thirds are medical staff , have spent the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first time many of them have worked together .
California 's 40 million residents were placed on lockdown on 19 March , with its governor estimating 56 % of the state 's population would be infected over eight weeks .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker It is the third hardest hit state in the country , after New York and New Jersey , with a total of 4,905 coronavirus cases confirmed and 102 deaths in California by Thursday evening .
Los Angeles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city , with 1,482 confirmed cases and 26 deaths .
On Friday the US overtook China and Italy in the number of confirmed cases , which reached 104,860 on Saturday and 1,581 deaths .
The country now has just over 17 % of the world 's 615,519 cases .
The US navy 's other hospital ship , the USNS Comfort , is preparing to leave Virginia on Saturday to head to New York City which is the worst hit area of the US .

US President Donald Trump appears to have changed his mind about the possibility of imposing a quarantine on New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
He wrote on Twitter: "On the recommendation of the White House coronavirus task force, and upon consultation with the governors of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, I have asked the CDC to issue a strong travel advisory, to be administered by the governors, in consultation with the federal government. A quarantine will not be necessary."
It came just hours after he had told reporters: "Some people would like to see New York quarantined because it's a hot spot - New York, New Jersey, maybe one or two other places... certain parts of Connecticut quarantined. I'm thinking about that right now."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:22 Trump was considering quarantine of New York
He went on: "We might not have to do it but there is a possibility that sometime today we'll do a quarantine, short term, two weeks for New York, probably New Jersey, certain parts of Connecticut."
The number of deaths in New York has risen from 519 to 728, with the number of cases now recorded at 52,318, most of them in New York City.
Mr Trump's words came shortly before it was confirmed that a child under the age of one had died in Chicago after contracting the virus.
Illinois Department of Public Health director Dr Ngozi Ezike said: "There has never before been a death associated with COVID-19 in an infant. A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of death.
"We must do everything we can to prevent the spread of this deadly virus. If not to protect ourselves, but to protect those around us."
Meanwhile, the governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, said the price of ventilators in the US had almost doubled from $25,000 to $45,000 - driven up because each state is competing against the others to buy them.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:13 US states bidding against each other for ventilators
Insisting the US has merely been reactive and failed to plan ahead, he said: "We have been behind this virus from day one."
Saying he is trying to stockpile medical supplies before the expected peak in a fortnight, he said: "You don't win on defence, you win on offence. You have to get ahead of this."
Mr Cuomo also insisted the pandemic was "not a sprint my friends, this is a marathon" but also said people should try and "find a silver lining in all of this".
"Who's painting their house because they never had time to paint their house before, who's working on a project that they never got to - who's reading a book that they never got to do, who's writing a book?"
He continued: "I've had conversations with my daughters, hours-long conversations where it's just us, just us talking, no place to go, she doesn't have to go to work, she doesn't have to run out, and they're priceless.
"You'll never get the opportunity in life to do that again. We're going to get through this and they're going to go off and find a boyfriend and do whatever they do.
"Yes, it's terrible and I'm not trying to say it's not a terrible circumstance, but even in a terrible circumstance, if you look hard enough, you can find a little ray, a few rays of light, and people are doing it and I think we all should.
"It's going to be a marathon, but we're going to get through it."
Meanwhile, non-coronavirus patients on the west coast of the US are set to be transferred onto a US navy hospital ship moored off Los Angeles to help the city's overburdened hospitals.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 A look inside US hospital ship
A handful of patients will be taken to the USNS Mercy, one of the navy's two hospital ships, on Saturday as the Californian city struggles to cope with the COVID-19 outbreak.
The captain of the ship, which has 1,100 hospital beds, said they would gradually take on more patients over time to free up space in hospitals for coronavirus patients.
Image: About two thirds of the Mercy's 1,000 sailors are medical staff
The Mercy's 1,000 sailors, of which two-thirds are medical staff, have spent the last week training at sea as it is the first time many of them have worked together.
California's 40 million residents were placed on lockdown on 19 March, with its governor estimating 56% of the state's population would be infected over eight weeks.
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
It is the third hardest hit state in the country, after New York and New Jersey, with a total of 4,905 coronavirus cases confirmed and 102 deaths in California by Thursday evening.
Los Angeles has been the state's hardest hit city, with 1,482 confirmed cases and 26 deaths.
On Friday the US overtook China and Italy in the number of confirmed cases, which reached 104,860 on Saturday and 1,581 deaths.
Image: New York's normally busy Times Square was empty on Saturday morning
The country now has just over 17% of the world's 615,519 cases.
The US navy's other hospital ship, the USNS Comfort, is preparing to leave Virginia on Saturday to head to New York City which is the worst hit area of the US.


skynewsus--2020-03-27--Trump signs $2.2trn relief bill as New York pleads for hospital beds

Donald Trump has signed an unprecedented $ 2.2trn ( £1.8tn ) coronavirus relief bill to help American citizens and businesses affected by the outbreak .
The US president said the bill would `` deliver urgently needed relief '' and would put Americans `` first '' .
It was signed into legislation as New York 's governor urgently called for thousands more hospital beds for coronavirus patients , warning the situation would last `` weeks and weeks and weeks '' .
Andrew Cuomo said 40,000 temporary beds would be needed across the state - and 4,000 in New York City alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including one which has been set up in a convention centre , but is looking to put up more .
`` This is going to be a long day , and it 's going to be a hard day , and it 's going to be an ugly day , and it 's going to be a sad day , '' Mr Cuomo said .
New York is the epicentre of the outbreak in the US .
There are more than 44,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases across the state , and the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Friday .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The US has now passed 100,000 confirmed cases in total , leading the world in the most number of cases , according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University .
Mr Trump signed the relief bill in the Oval Office , after the House of Representatives gave near-unanimous approval in a vote .
The Senate passed the bill unanimously late on Wednesday .
The legislation will prop up most Americans with payments of $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefits for millions who lost their jobs during the pandemic .
President Trump , who had earlier rejected Mr Cuomo 's pleas for tens of thousands more ventilators , on Friday also invoked the Defence Production Act to force car giant General Motors to produce more breathing machines .
The US president had earlier criticised General Motors for not making them quickly enough .
In a series of tweets , Mr Trump claimed manufacturer General Motors had cut the number of ventilators it said it could provide for coronavirus patients .
The president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' General Motors , things just never seem to work out .
They said they were going to give us 40,000 much needed ventilators , 'very quickly ' .
`` Now they are saying it will only be 6,000 , in late April , and they want top dollar . ''
Car giants General Motors and Ford have teamed with ventilator makers to produce more of the life-saving devices .
But Mr Trump called for General Motors to `` start making ventilators , now '' .
He wrote : `` General Motors MUST @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ohio , or some other plant , and START MAKING VENTILATORS , NOW !
!
!
!
!
!
FORD , GET GOING ON VENTILATORS , FAST !
!
!
!
!
! ''
General Motors said in a statement it will be building ventilators with Ventec Life Systems , a Seattle-based company , and will help Ventec ramp up production .
The company said its teams `` have been working tirelessly '' to produce ventilators .
`` Retooling is under way and we are poised to deliver the first ventilators next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monthly , '' it added .
`` We know that there is a global back-order of critical care ventilators .
We 're committed to doing everything we can to help - including donating our resources at cost to support the fight against COVID-19 . ''
Meanwhile , Ford is working with GE Health Care to increase production and plans to manufacture a simplified ventilator design starting next month .
`` Ford is pulling out all the stops to quickly and safely provide vitally needed equipment for patients , first responders and healthcare workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Motor Corp said it was `` finalising agreements to begin working with at least two companies that produce ventilators and respirators to help increase their capacity '' .
In an interview with Fox News on Thursday night , Mr Trump questioned whether hospitals were exaggerating the number of ventilators needed .
`` I have a feeling that a lot of the numbers that are being said in some areas are just bigger than they 're going to be , '' he said .
`` I do n't believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to major hospitals sometimes , they 'll have two ventilators .
And now , all of a sudden , they 're saying , 'Can we order 30,000 ventilators ? '
''

Donald Trump has signed an unprecedented $2.2trn (£1.8tn) coronavirus relief bill to help American citizens and businesses affected by the outbreak.
The US president said the bill would "deliver urgently needed relief" and would put Americans "first".
It was signed into legislation as New York's governor urgently called for thousands more hospital beds for coronavirus patients, warning the situation would last "weeks and weeks and weeks".
Image: President Donald Trump signs off on the $2trn coronavirus aid package
Andrew Cuomo said 40,000 temporary beds would be needed across the state - and 4,000 in New York City alone.
New York is preparing temporary hospitals, including one which has been set up in a convention centre, but is looking to put up more.
"This is going to be a long day, and it's going to be a hard day, and it's going to be an ugly day, and it's going to be a sad day," Mr Cuomo said.
New York is the epicentre of the outbreak in the US. There are more than 44,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases across the state, and the number of people admitted to hospital passed 6,000 on Friday.
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The US has now passed 100,000 confirmed cases in total, leading the world in the most number of cases, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University.
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Mr Trump signed the relief bill in the Oval Office, after the House of Representatives gave near-unanimous approval in a vote.
Image: Mr Trump signed the bill in the Oval Office
The Senate passed the bill unanimously late on Wednesday.
The legislation will prop up most Americans with payments of $1,200 (£963) and increase jobless benefits for millions who lost their jobs during the pandemic.
President Trump, who had earlier rejected Mr Cuomo's pleas for tens of thousands more ventilators, on Friday also invoked the Defence Production Act to force car giant General Motors to produce more breathing machines.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 'An insidious beast' - New York governor on virus
The US president had earlier criticised General Motors for not making them quickly enough.
In a series of tweets, Mr Trump claimed manufacturer General Motors had cut the number of ventilators it said it could provide for coronavirus patients.
The president wrote: "As usual with 'this' General Motors, things just never seem to work out. They said they were going to give us 40,000 much needed ventilators, 'very quickly'.
"Now they are saying it will only be 6,000, in late April, and they want top dollar."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:53 '9/11 was nothing compared to coronavirus crisis'
Car giants General Motors and Ford have teamed with ventilator makers to produce more of the life-saving devices.
But Mr Trump called for General Motors to "start making ventilators, now".
He wrote: "General Motors MUST immediately open their stupidly abandoned Lordstown plant in Ohio, or some other plant, and START MAKING VENTILATORS, NOW!!!!!! FORD, GET GOING ON VENTILATORS, FAST!!!!!!"
General Motors said in a statement it will be building ventilators with Ventec Life Systems, a Seattle-based company, and will help Ventec ramp up production.
The company said its teams "have been working tirelessly" to produce ventilators.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:17 Trump spars with reporter over virus plan
"Retooling is under way and we are poised to deliver the first ventilators next month with capacity of more than 10,000 monthly," it added.
"We know that there is a global back-order of critical care ventilators. We're committed to doing everything we can to help - including donating our resources at cost to support the fight against COVID-19."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:53 A surge in infections means the US is hardest hit nation in the world
Meanwhile, Ford is working with GE Health Care to increase production and plans to manufacture a simplified ventilator design starting next month.
"Ford is pulling out all the stops to quickly and safely provide vitally needed equipment for patients, first responders and healthcare workers," the company said.
Toyota Motor Corp said it was "finalising agreements to begin working with at least two companies that produce ventilators and respirators to help increase their capacity".
Image: New York has called for more ventilators to help its coronavirus response
In an interview with Fox News on Thursday night, Mr Trump questioned whether hospitals were exaggerating the number of ventilators needed.
"I have a feeling that a lot of the numbers that are being said in some areas are just bigger than they're going to be," he said.
"I don't believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 ventilators. You know, you're going to major hospitals sometimes, they'll have two ventilators. And now, all of a sudden, they're saying, 'Can we order 30,000 ventilators?'"


skynewsus--2020-03-28--'This is a moment that forges people': New York governor rallies forces against coronavirus

I counted four white container lorries on a side-street next to a large Manhattan hospital .
And then another three in the grounds .
Seven overflow morgues - a sign of things to come .
At another hospital across town , we watched them carry the body of the latest victim into a similar truck .
Another number to add to New York 's rising death toll .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker A vast convention centre in the city has been converted into a makeshift hospital .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a rallying cry to the men and women on the frontline .
It was one of the most powerful moments of oratory I can remember - leadership at a time of crisis .
`` This is a moment that will be written about in history .
This is a moment that forges people .
Changes people - make them stronger , make them weaker .
`` I wo n't ask you to do anything I would n't .
I wo n't ask you to go anywhere I would n't .
`` Ten years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about today with your children or grandchildren and you will shed a tear .
`` Because you will remember the lives lost , and you will remember the faces , and you will remember the names .
`` And you will remember how hard we worked , and that we still lost loved ones .
`` But you will also be proud , you will be proud of what you did .
`` You will be proud that you showed up when other people played it safe , you had the courage .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the number of confirmed cases .
New York is preparing for the worst and you get the sense there is a real inevitability about what comes next .
It 's a race against time , and time is running out .

I counted four white container lorries on a side-street next to a large Manhattan hospital.
And then another three in the grounds. Seven overflow morgues - a sign of things to come.
At another hospital across town, we watched them carry the body of the latest victim into a similar truck. Another number to add to New York's rising death toll.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
A vast convention centre in the city has been converted into a makeshift hospital.
From there, Governor Andrew Cuomo delivered a rallying cry to the men and women on the frontline. It was one of the most powerful moments of oratory I can remember - leadership at a time of crisis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:43 'An insidious beast' - New York governor on virus
Image: US Army and Javit center personnel stand apart while listening to Mr Cuomo's speech
"This is a moment that will be written about in history. This is a moment that forges people. Changes people - make them stronger, make them weaker.
"I won't ask you to do anything I wouldn't. I won't ask you to go anywhere I wouldn't.
"Ten years from now, you will be talking about today with your children or grandchildren and you will shed a tear.
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Image: Improvised hospital rooms are seen at the Jacob K Javits Convention Center in New York
"Because you will remember the lives lost, and you will remember the faces, and you will remember the names.
"And you will remember how hard we worked, and that we still lost loved ones.
"But you will also be proud, you will be proud of what you did.
"You will be proud that you showed up when other people played it safe, you had the courage."
The US has overtaken China in the number of confirmed cases.
New York is preparing for the worst and you get the sense there is a real inevitability about what comes next.
It's a race against time, and time is running out.


skynewsus--2020-03-27--How the US is becoming the new COVID-19 epicentre

The United States is quickly becoming the new epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic , with cases in the country rising rapidly .
There are now at least 83,000 cases in the US and around 1,300 people have died from the coronavirus in the country .
On Thursday , the country overtook China and Italy to become the place with the most reported cases of the disease .
The large number of cases is in part due to the size of the United States , as it has a population of around 330 million , around five times larger than both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China has a larger population than the US , so the size of the country is clearly only one factor .
The density of the population is also important , as the disease has spread quickest through cities like Milan and London where people live close together .
Crucially , it 's not just the number of cases in the US that will be worrying health authorities .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker More important still is the rate at which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it is this measure that suggests the US is the new epicentre of the pandemic .
As recently as a week ago the US had just 25,000 cases , but that number has more than tripled in the last seven days .
On Thursday , more than 18,000 new coronavirus cases were reported in a single day .
Of late the number of cases in the US has doubled every 3.7 days , although in some places the rate is much higher .
This means the number of cases is likely to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and could continue to grow exponentially .
Growth like this is particularly dangerous , as it can cause a surge in demand for medical care - and the country 's health system may struggle to meet this demand .
One place where the number of cases has risen quickly is the state of New York .
Around 45 % of the country 's confirmed cases are from the state , with at least 37,877 people infected with the disease .
There have also been 385 deaths from the virus in New York , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The state has been in lockdown for a week to try to slow the spread of the disease , but so far this has had a limited effect .
Since the 100th case was recorded in New York the number of cases has doubled on average every 2.2 days , although it has now slowed slightly to doubling around every four days .
Cases in New Jersey and Michigan are also doubling rapidly , meaning cases in all three states are likely to escalate .
The current surge of cases of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen in the number of deaths in the country .
China , Italy , Spain and Iran have all had more deaths than the US , despite having fewer cases .
However , the outbreak in the US is relatively recent , with the vast majority of cases only being reported in the last week .
This means that the number of deaths in the country should be expected to rise rapidly over the next week , as there is a delay between people being diagnosed with the disease and the virus proving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in New York , where the number of deaths is doubling every two days .
At the moment the US is only leading the way in terms of the number of cases , but if the number of deaths does continue to rise , it could top anything seen so far in Asia or Europe .
Then the country will unquestionably be the new epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic .

The United States is quickly becoming the new epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic, with cases in the country rising rapidly.
There are now at least 83,000 cases in the US and around 1,300 people have died from the coronavirus in the country.
On Thursday, the country overtook China and Italy to become the place with the most reported cases of the disease.
The large number of cases is in part due to the size of the United States, as it has a population of around 330 million, around five times larger than both the UK and Italy.
However, China has a larger population than the US, so the size of the country is clearly only one factor.
The density of the population is also important, as the disease has spread quickest through cities like Milan and London where people live close together.
Crucially, it's not just the number of cases in the US that will be worrying health authorities.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
More important still is the rate at which the number of cases is increasing - and it is this measure that suggests the US is the new epicentre of the pandemic.
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As recently as a week ago the US had just 25,000 cases, but that number has more than tripled in the last seven days.
On Thursday, more than 18,000 new coronavirus cases were reported in a single day.
Of late the number of cases in the US has doubled every 3.7 days, although in some places the rate is much higher.
This means the number of cases is likely to double again in the next few days and could continue to grow exponentially.
Growth like this is particularly dangerous, as it can cause a surge in demand for medical care - and the country's health system may struggle to meet this demand.
One place where the number of cases has risen quickly is the state of New York.
Around 45% of the country's confirmed cases are from the state, with at least 37,877 people infected with the disease.
There have also been 385 deaths from the virus in New York, a third of the United States total.
The state has been in lockdown for a week to try to slow the spread of the disease, but so far this has had a limited effect.
Since the 100th case was recorded in New York the number of cases has doubled on average every 2.2 days, although it has now slowed slightly to doubling around every four days.
Cases in New Jersey and Michigan are also doubling rapidly, meaning cases in all three states are likely to escalate.
The current surge of cases of COVID-19 in the US has not yet been seen in the number of deaths in the country.
China, Italy, Spain and Iran have all had more deaths than the US, despite having fewer cases.
However, the outbreak in the US is relatively recent, with the vast majority of cases only being reported in the last week.
This means that the number of deaths in the country should be expected to rise rapidly over the next week, as there is a delay between people being diagnosed with the disease and the virus proving fatal.
This can already be seen in New York, where the number of deaths is doubling every two days.
At the moment the US is only leading the way in terms of the number of cases, but if the number of deaths does continue to rise, it could top anything seen so far in Asia or Europe.
Then the country will unquestionably be the new epicentre of the coronavirus pandemic.


skynewsus--2020-03-27--Number of coronavirus cases in US overtakes Italy and China

The US now leads the world in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases .
There are almost 86,000 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in the US - roughly 16 % of the world 's total of 532,000 - according to Johns Hopkins University .
This puts it ahead of China , where the virus originated , and also ahead of Italy , Europe 's epicentre which has been overwhelmed by the virus in recent weeks .
China has almost 82,000 cases and Italy has 80,500 .
The country has seen a sharp decrease in new cases in recent weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost all foreign nationals - a turnaround from the situation in January , when the US and Europe were limiting travel from China .
US President Donald Trump dismissed his country 's high number of cases as being a `` tribute to our testing '' , adding that health officials were `` testing tremendous numbers of people '' .
Mr Trump also cast doubt on China 's numbers , saying : `` You do n't know what the numbers are in China . ''
President Xi Jinping took issue with this statement in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ telling him that Beijing had been open and transparent since the epidemic began .
Different countries do indeed have different thresholds for when a person should be tested for the disease and testing a smaller number of people will result in a smaller number of reported cases .
But the US is among the countries that have been criticised for not testing widely enough .
Despite the continuing spread of the pandemic in the US , Mr Trump said the country `` needed to get back to work '' , adding that `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pretty quickly '' .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mr Trump has also dismissed pleas from some state governors for more ventilators to treat the worst-affected patients .
New York has seen around 30,000 cases , most of them in New York City .
Almost 400 people have died , with the peak expected to come weeks from now .
New York governor Andrew Cuomo has warned that the shortage of ventilators is `` astronomical '' and is expected to worsen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help them breathe - often for many weeks - and Mr Cuomo warned : `` Any scenario ( in terms of patient numbers ) that is realistic will overwhelm the capacity of the healthcare system . ''
Mr Trump replied : `` I do n't believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 ventilators . ''
A February estimate by infectious disease specialist Dr James Lawler found the US would need 960,000 ventilators for victims of the virus , although not all of these would be required at the same time .
Another study has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soon - still far more than are readily available .
Meanwhile , Louisiana is fast becoming another badly affected state , with last month 's Mardi Gras in New Orleans being blamed for situation .
Demand for ventilators in the state has already doubled and governor John Bel Edwards said there could be none available by 2 April and beds could be full as early as five days later `` if we do n't flatten the infection curve soon '' .
Warner Thomas , chief executive of the state 's hospital group Ochsner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state 's intensive care patients are on ventilators .
The normal rate is 30 % to 40 % , he said .
As well as a ventilator shortage , there have been reports of doctors and nurses having to recycle face masks or even make their own .
Also , US Attorney General William Barr said he has told the Bureau of Prisons to expand its use of home confinement for some inmates as the virus spreads through the prison system .
Six inmates and four prison workers have tested positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Mr Barr said : `` One of the things we have to assess is whether that individual ... will be more safe in the particular circumstance in which they are going to find themselves .
And in many cases , that may not be the case . ''

The US now leads the world in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases.
There are almost 86,000 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in the US - roughly 16% of the world's total of 532,000 - according to Johns Hopkins University.
This puts it ahead of China, where the virus originated, and also ahead of Italy, Europe's epicentre which has been overwhelmed by the virus in recent weeks.
China has almost 82,000 cases and Italy has 80,500.
The country has seen a sharp decrease in new cases in recent weeks and has moved to suspend visits from almost all foreign nationals - a turnaround from the situation in January, when the US and Europe were limiting travel from China.
US President Donald Trump dismissed his country's high number of cases as being a "tribute to our testing", adding that health officials were "testing tremendous numbers of people".
Mr Trump also cast doubt on China's numbers, saying: "You don't know what the numbers are in China."
President Xi Jinping took issue with this statement in a call with Mr Trump - reportedly telling him that Beijing had been open and transparent since the epidemic began.
Different countries do indeed have different thresholds for when a person should be tested for the disease and testing a smaller number of people will result in a smaller number of reported cases. But the US is among the countries that have been criticised for not testing widely enough.
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Despite the continuing spread of the pandemic in the US, Mr Trump said the country "needed to get back to work", adding that "I think it's going to happen pretty quickly".
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Mr Trump has also dismissed pleas from some state governors for more ventilators to treat the worst-affected patients.
New York has seen around 30,000 cases, most of them in New York City. Almost 400 people have died, with the peak expected to come weeks from now.
Image: In New York the coronavirus outbreak is getting worse
New York governor Andrew Cuomo has warned that the shortage of ventilators is "astronomical" and is expected to worsen.
Many coronavirus victims need ventilators to help them breathe - often for many weeks - and Mr Cuomo warned: "Any scenario (in terms of patient numbers) that is realistic will overwhelm the capacity of the healthcare system."
Mr Trump replied: "I don't believe you need 40,000 or 30,000 ventilators."
A February estimate by infectious disease specialist Dr James Lawler found the US would need 960,000 ventilators for victims of the virus, although not all of these would be required at the same time. Another study has estimated some 300,000 would be needed very soon - still far more than are readily available.
Image: New Orleans, Louisiana, is badly-affected by the coronavirus
Meanwhile, Louisiana is fast becoming another badly affected state, with last month's Mardi Gras in New Orleans being blamed for situation.
Demand for ventilators in the state has already doubled and governor John Bel Edwards said there could be none available by 2 April and beds could be full as early as five days later "if we don't flatten the infection curve soon".
Warner Thomas, chief executive of the state's hospital group Ochsner Health System, said 80% of the state's intensive care patients are on ventilators. The normal rate is 30% to 40%, he said.
As well as a ventilator shortage, there have been reports of doctors and nurses having to recycle face masks or even make their own.
Also, US Attorney General William Barr said he has told the Bureau of Prisons to expand its use of home confinement for some inmates as the virus spreads through the prison system.
Six inmates and four prison workers have tested positive for COVID-19. Several prisons are on lockdown.
Mr Barr said: "One of the things we have to assess is whether that individual... will be more safe in the particular circumstance in which they are going to find themselves. And in many cases, that may not be the case."


skynewsus--2020-03-27--Food worth $35,000 'deliberately' coughed on in supermarket

A supermarket has had to throw away $ 35,000 ( £28,500 ) of groceries after a woman `` deliberately '' coughed on fresh food .
Gerrity 's Supermarket in Pennsylvania described the woman 's actions as a `` very twisted prank '' , and said it had no choice but to discard all of the items she came into contact with .
Co-owner Joe Fasula said the store 's fruit and vegetable aisles - as well as its meat and bakery - were targeted in the incident .
He wrote on Facebook : `` I am also sick to my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` While it is always a shame when food is wasted , in these times when so many people are worried about the security of our food supply , it is even more disturbing . ''
On Twitter , the store added : `` It truly saddens us .
We are doing our best to provide everyone a safe environment & the items they need during this time including our seniors & those who are immunocompromised . ''
Shop shelves have now been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected .
Although the woman is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are planning to administer a test .
A 35-year-old called Margaret Cirko has been arrested in connection with the incident .
In a statement , Hanover Township Police Department said : `` Police were called to the business after Cirko entered the store making verbal threats that she was sick while intentionally coughing and spitting saliva/bile on produce/meat/merchandise .
`` Cirko continued this behaviour in several aisles before attempting to steal a 12 pack of beer as she was being ordered to leave the store by employees . ''
: : Listen to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker She has been charged with terrorist threats , threatening to use a `` biological agent '' , criminal mischief , attempting to commit retail theft , and disorderly conduct .
Supermarkets around the world have been struggling to keep up with demand as shoppers stockpile goods .
Mr Fasula says his store 's shelves of fresh produce have now been fully restocked .

A supermarket has had to throw away $35,000 (£28,500) of groceries after a woman "deliberately" coughed on fresh food.
Gerrity's Supermarket in Pennsylvania described the woman's actions as a "very twisted prank", and said it had no choice but to discard all of the items she came into contact with.
Co-owner Joe Fasula said the store's fruit and vegetable aisles - as well as its meat and bakery - were targeted in the incident.
Image: The shop shelves have now been cleaned and disinfected
He wrote on Facebook: "I am also sick to my stomach about the loss of food.
"While it is always a shame when food is wasted, in these times when so many people are worried about the security of our food supply, it is even more disturbing."
On Twitter, the store added: "It truly saddens us. We are doing our best to provide everyone a safe environment & the items they need during this time including our seniors & those who are immunocompromised."
Shop shelves have now been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Although the woman is not believed to have coronavirus, local police are planning to administer a test.
A 35-year-old called Margaret Cirko has been arrested in connection with the incident.
Image: A 35-year-old has been arrested and charged in connection with the incident
In a statement, Hanover Township Police Department said: "Police were called to the business after Cirko entered the store making verbal threats that she was sick while intentionally coughing and spitting saliva/bile on produce/meat/merchandise.
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"Cirko continued this behaviour in several aisles before attempting to steal a 12 pack of beer as she was being ordered to leave the store by employees."
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
She has been charged with terrorist threats, threatening to use a "biological agent", criminal mischief, attempting to commit retail theft, and disorderly conduct.
Supermarkets around the world have been struggling to keep up with demand as shoppers stockpile goods.
Mr Fasula says his store's shelves of fresh produce have now been fully restocked.


skynewsus--2020-03-31--Trump gets Seoul population wrong by 28 million after boast

Donald Trump misstated the population of South Korea 's capital city by around 28 million people , moments after telling a news conference he knew the country `` better than anybody '' .
The US president was responding indignantly to a question about coronavirus testing capacity from PBS NewsHour reporter Yamiche Alcindor , when he questioned her about her knowledge of Seoul .
`` I know South Korea better than anybody , '' he said .
`` It 's a very tight - do you know how many people are in Seoul ?
Do you know how big the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That 's bigger than anything we have . ''
Official estimates of the city 's population put it at just over 10 million .
It is unclear how Mr Trump arrived at the figure of 38 million .
The metropolitan area encompassing the city is the fifth largest in the world , with 25 million inhabitants , while the country has a total population of around 51 million .
Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Some speculated that the president may have confused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sea level , which is 38 metres .
A previous report suggested he described Belgium was `` a beautiful city '' , while another claimed he mixed up the Baltic states with the Balkans in a meeting with bemused leaders of the former .
The presidents of Latvia , Estonia and Lithuania were said to have been bewildered when he blamed them for starting wars that triggered the breakup of Yugoslavia .

Donald Trump misstated the population of South Korea's capital city by around 28 million people, moments after telling a news conference he knew the country "better than anybody".
The US president was responding indignantly to a question about coronavirus testing capacity from PBS NewsHour reporter Yamiche Alcindor, when he questioned her about her knowledge of Seoul.
"I know South Korea better than anybody," he said.
"It's a very tight - do you know how many people are in Seoul? Do you know how big the city of Seoul is? 38 million people. That's bigger than anything we have."
Official estimates of the city's population put it at just over 10 million.
It is unclear how Mr Trump arrived at the figure of 38 million. The metropolitan area encompassing the city is the fifth largest in the world, with 25 million inhabitants, while the country has a total population of around 51 million.
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Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Some speculated that the president may have confused the number with Seoul's elevation above sea level, which is 38 metres.
Mr Trump's previous geographical shortcomings have been widely documented.
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A previous report suggested he described Belgium as "a beautiful city", while another claimed he mixed up the Baltic states with the Balkans in a meeting with bemused leaders of the former.
The presidents of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania were said to have been bewildered when he blamed them for starting wars that triggered the breakup of Yugoslavia.


skynewsus--2020-03-31--A field hospital in Central Park doesn't feel that strange

I 've seen them in war zones , I 've come across them after natural disasters , but never have I seen a field hospital anywhere like Central Park .
And yet in some ways the sight of white hospital tents sitting in the shadow of Manhattan 's skyscrapers , does n't feel all that strange .
In these times , nothing surprises .
They started putting it up on Sunday afternoon - by the time you 're reading this , the first coronavirus patients will be inside , being treated by medics more used to hurricanes , earthquakes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will treat the most poorly ; 54 more beds will take patients out of the Mount Sinai health system .
In a few days it will become another centre of this spreading global crisis , but all the while New Yorkers will continue to jog , walk their dogs and wheel their children around it .
Bizarre .
In some ways it was a good start to the week for New York - not only will the field hospital help relieve pressure but the opening of a vast convention centre with 2,500 beds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ship with 1,000 , should collectively give some needed respite to the overwhelmed medical system here .
Having watched Governor Cuomo 's daily press conference on television without fail for the past two weeks , we finally managed to attend one in person .
They 've become appointment-to-view in much of America .
His frank fact-based approach , illustrated with on-screen graphics and statistics , contrasts uncomfortably with President Trump 's off-the-cuff optimism .
The two regularly use their respective television occasions to fire off insults at the other - sometimes blatant , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The television audiences might be large , but the journalists present are few .
This has n't gone the way of Downing Street media events yet - via tele-conference - but our chairs are placed a strict two metres apart and monitored by the watching National Guard .
`` Are you avoiding a tangle with President Trump ? ''
one local reporter asks .
`` How long have you known me ? ''
Cuomo shoots back .
`` Twenty years .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ known me to resist a tangle ? ''
He 's not a man afraid of confrontation , but now is not the time for politics .
I ask him what he makes of the White House 's estimate that the final death toll could be between somewhere between 100,000 and 200,000 .
`` Whatever the number is , it 's going to be staggering .
The number is already staggering .
A human life is a human life .
`` We 've lost over one thousand New Yorkers .
To me we 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staggering and the only point now is do everything you can to save every life possible . ''
That 's what they 're doing - in the hospitals , on a ship , in the middle of Central Park , they 're doing everything they can to save lives , however unorthodox .
Will it be enough though ?

I've seen them in war zones, I've come across them after natural disasters, but never have I seen a field hospital anywhere like Central Park.
And yet in some ways the sight of white hospital tents sitting in the shadow of Manhattan's skyscrapers, doesn't feel all that strange. In these times, nothing surprises.
They started putting it up on Sunday afternoon - by the time you're reading this, the first coronavirus patients will be inside, being treated by medics more used to hurricanes, earthquakes and conflict.
Image: The field hospital is the work of the Samaritan's Purse organisation
A 10-bed intensive care unit will treat the most poorly; 54 more beds will take patients out of the Mount Sinai health system.
In a few days it will become another centre of this spreading global crisis, but all the while New Yorkers will continue to jog, walk their dogs and wheel their children around it. Bizarre.
In some ways it was a good start to the week for New York - not only will the field hospital help relieve pressure but the opening of a vast convention centre with 2,500 beds, and the arrival of a hospital ship with 1,000, should collectively give some needed respite to the overwhelmed medical system here.
Image: The USNS Comfort arrives at Pier 90 in New York City
Having watched Governor Cuomo's daily press conference on television without fail for the past two weeks, we finally managed to attend one in person.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:32 Coronavirus numbers 'beyond staggering', Cuomo tells Sky News
They've become appointment-to-view in much of America. His frank fact-based approach, illustrated with on-screen graphics and statistics, contrasts uncomfortably with President Trump's off-the-cuff optimism.
The two regularly use their respective television occasions to fire off insults at the other - sometimes blatant, sometimes subtle.
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Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
The television audiences might be large, but the journalists present are few. This hasn't gone the way of Downing Street media events yet - via tele-conference - but our chairs are placed a strict two metres apart and monitored by the watching National Guard.
Cuomo doesn't mince his words. He's a New Yorker.
"Are you avoiding a tangle with President Trump?" one local reporter asks.
"How long have you known me?" Cuomo shoots back. "Twenty years. And in 20 years, have you ever known me to resist a tangle?"
He's not a man afraid of confrontation, but now is not the time for politics.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 Trump: 'The peak in the US is in two weeks'
I ask him what he makes of the White House's estimate that the final death toll could be between somewhere between 100,000 and 200,000.
"Whatever the number is, it's going to be staggering. The number is already staggering. A human life is a human life.
"We've lost over one thousand New Yorkers. To me we're beyond staggering already, we've reached staggering and the only point now is do everything you can to save every life possible."
That's what they're doing - in the hospitals, on a ship, in the middle of Central Park, they're doing everything they can to save lives, however unorthodox. Will it be enough though?