foxnews--2020-05-28--3 GOP Attorneys General: Time for Congress to take action against China's communist government

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As elected attorneys general , we are the top law enforcement officers in each of our states .
We take extremely seriously our duty of parens patriae – to protect , defend , and vindicate the legal rights of all of the citizens we represent .
This duty rings true in times of crisis and uncertainty , especially during the unprecedented pandemic we face today .
The coronavirus crisis has touched all of us .
We have lost friends to COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stricken with the illness .
Countless businesses in our states have been shuttered and jobs there lost .
Our brave doctors and nurses working front line shifts , treating their patients , have been put at great risk .
And , increasingly now , we hear about culpability .
We are learning more about who is responsible for this modern-day plague .
All roads lead to a cover-up orchestrated by communist China .
Recently , we sent a letter to congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle .
The letter has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hyper-partisan times we are hopeful that politicians of all stripes will get behind and support .
We asked Congress to investigate the Chinese government ’ s role in the coronavirus crisis and assess its culpability for this terrible pandemic .
Press reports reveal that the Chinese government and Chinese Communist Party actively sought to suppress vital information about the coronavirus and its characteristics – particularly its ability to spread from human-to-human contact – for weeks or even months .
They allegedly silenced whistleblowers and detained doctors who dared to speak out about what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ labs .
They expelled western media who might have been able to see through their propaganda .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE OPINION NEWSLETTER Other reports have even indicated that China compromised the World Health Organization , directing its response to this crisis by feeding it bad information and excluding contrary voices like those of its rival the Taiwanese government .
In effect , they turned the world ’ s most important collaborative public health establishment into a megaphone for their own propagandistic proclamations .
Furthermore , while all of this was going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steps to corner the world market in personal protective equipment ( PPE ) and life-saving medical supplies , ensuring shortages and dependence when the world was finally able to see through their lies and obfuscation .
There have even been accusations that Chinese entities purposely shipped defective PPE and other equipment to foreign countries .
These acts , if proven , are not only wrong , they are evil .
And these allegations , if true , are not merely worrying , they are actionable .
Some of us are considering legal action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ damage done to our states and our citizens .
The state of Missouri has already sued China , the Chinese Communist Party , and other related defendants in federal court .
However , an all hands-on deck approach is needed when confronting an issue of this magnitude .
Congressional hearings would help clarify truth from rumor , reality from hype , and fact from fiction .
With their broad investigative powers , congressional committees could subpoena necessary witnesses , assemble relevant documents , and create a complete factual picture of how exactly the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this pandemic .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP An investigation would establish an official public record that would cut through the foreign propaganda and media spin .
When , inevitably , the parties responsible for this crisis attempt to shift the blame , a free and open record — in addition to our legal actions— will help shine a light on the truth and facts .
A century ago , Louis D. Brandeis wrote that “ sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.
” These words still ring @ @ @

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As elected attorneys general, we are the top law enforcement officers in each of our states. We take extremely seriously our duty of parens patriae – to protect, defend, and vindicate the legal rights of all of the citizens we represent. This duty rings true in times of crisis and uncertainty, especially during the unprecedented pandemic we face today.
The coronavirus crisis has touched all of us. We have lost friends to COVID-19 and thousands of our constituents have been stricken with the illness. Countless businesses in our states have been shuttered and jobs there lost. Our brave doctors and nurses working front line shifts, treating their patients, have been put at great risk.
And, increasingly now, we hear about culpability. We are learning more about who is responsible for this modern-day plague. All roads lead to a cover-up orchestrated by communist China.
CHINESE STATE-RUN MEDIA CALL US THREATS OVER HONG KONG 'NOTHINGBURGER'
Recently, we sent a letter to congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle. The letter has a very simple request that even in these hyper-partisan times we are hopeful that politicians of all stripes will get behind and support.
An investigation would establish an official public record that would cut through the foreign propaganda and media spin.
We asked Congress to investigate the Chinese government’s role in the coronavirus crisis and assess its culpability for this terrible pandemic.
Press reports reveal that the Chinese government and Chinese Communist Party actively sought to suppress vital information about the coronavirus and its characteristics – particularly its ability to spread from human-to-human contact – for weeks or even months.
They allegedly silenced whistleblowers and detained doctors who dared to speak out about what they were seeing in their hospitals and labs. They expelled western media who might have been able to see through their propaganda.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE OPINION NEWSLETTER
Other reports have even indicated that China compromised the World Health Organization, directing its response to this crisis by feeding it bad information and excluding contrary voices like those of its rival the Taiwanese government. In effect, they turned the world’s most important collaborative public health establishment into a megaphone for their own propagandistic proclamations.
Furthermore, while all of this was going on, China appears to have taken steps to corner the world market in personal protective equipment (PPE) and life-saving medical supplies, ensuring shortages and dependence when the world was finally able to see through their lies and obfuscation. There have even been accusations that Chinese entities purposely shipped defective PPE and other equipment to foreign countries.
These acts, if proven, are not only wrong, they are evil. And these allegations, if true, are not merely worrying, they are actionable.
Some of us are considering legal action to hold China accountable for the profound damage done to our states and our citizens. The state of Missouri has already sued China, the Chinese Communist Party, and other related defendants in federal court. However, an all hands-on deck approach is needed when confronting an issue of this magnitude.
Congressional hearings would help clarify truth from rumor, reality from hype, and fact from fiction. With their broad investigative powers, congressional committees could subpoena necessary witnesses, assemble relevant documents, and create a complete factual picture of how exactly the world was brought to its knees by this pandemic.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
An investigation would establish an official public record that would cut through the foreign propaganda and media spin.
When, inevitably, the parties responsible for this crisis attempt to shift the blame, a free and open record — in addition to our legal actions— will help shine a light on the truth and facts. A century ago, Louis D. Brandeis wrote that “sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.” These words still ring true today.
Eric Schmitt is Missouri Attorney General.
Alan Wilson is South Carolina Attorney General.


foxnews--2020-05-28--Cheyenne Frontier Days, world's largest outdoor rodeo, canceled for 1st time in over a century

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Cheyenne Frontier Days , the annual rodeo held in Wyoming ’ s capital city , has been canceled for the first time in more than a century due to the coronavirus pandemic , officials announced Wednesday .
Event organizers said the risk of spreading the virus is too great for the more than 140,000 people who visit Cheyenne for Frontier Days over the last two weeks in July , Mayor Marian Orr said .
`` What this pandemic means is we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Orr said .
`` We really have to stay apart so we can come together again sooner rather than later .
It 's clear that we just are n't going to be ready for this . ''
Frontier Days pumps up to $ 28 million into the Cheyenne-area economy .
Some shops get by largely on those two weeks out of the year when their business booms .
`` One of the things that 's worried us most is the psyche of our businesses .
Them just staying with it .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a huge impact on us .
It is our identity , '' Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dale Steenbergen said .
The event took place through both world wars and the Great Depression , when tough finances prompted it to become a mostly volunteer-run event .
To this day , a small army of local volunteers runs the Western heritage festival of rodeo , music concerts , carnival rides , parades and downtown pancake breakfasts that feed thousands of people at a time .
Bars all over Cheyenne are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people try line dancing and mechanical bull-riding .
BISON INJURES WOMAN AT YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK JUST TWO DAYS AFTER PARTIAL REOPENING '' We worked hard as a group , brainstorming and trying to come up with solutions , '' Frontier Days President and CEO Tom Hirsig said in a news conference with Gov .
Mark Gordon .
`` One of the worst things we could do would be to cause our state to go backward in the recovery process . ''
Wyoming , the least-populated state , has had relatively few coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gradually lifted restrictions on businesses , allowing people to go to bars and dine in restaurants .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Tourism is Wyoming 's second-biggest industry after coal mining and other fossil fuel extraction .
But recent surges of the virus in the cities of Casper and Laramie have worried health officials that some residents may not be taking social distancing seriously .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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Cheyenne Frontier Days, the annual rodeo held in Wyoming’s capital city, has been canceled for the first time in more than a century due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials announced Wednesday.
Event organizers said the risk of spreading the virus is too great for the more than 140,000 people who visit Cheyenne for Frontier Days over the last two weeks in July, Mayor Marian Orr said.
"What this pandemic means is we just can't come together," Orr said. "We really have to stay apart so we can come together again sooner rather than later. It's clear that we just aren't going to be ready for this."
Frontier Days pumps up to $28 million into the Cheyenne-area economy. Some shops get by largely on those two weeks out of the year when their business booms.
"One of the things that's worried us most is the psyche of our businesses. Them just staying with it. This is just another hit. It's going to have a huge impact on us. It is our identity," Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dale Steenbergen said.
The event took place through both world wars and the Great Depression, when tough finances prompted it to become a mostly volunteer-run event. To this day, a small army of local volunteers runs the Western heritage festival of rodeo, music concerts, carnival rides, parades and downtown pancake breakfasts that feed thousands of people at a time.
Bars all over Cheyenne are typically standing-room-only during Frontier Days, as people try line dancing and mechanical bull-riding.
BISON INJURES WOMAN AT YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK JUST TWO DAYS AFTER PARTIAL REOPENING
"We worked hard as a group, brainstorming and trying to come up with solutions," Frontier Days President and CEO Tom Hirsig said in a news conference with Gov. Mark Gordon. "One of the worst things we could do would be to cause our state to go backward in the recovery process."
Wyoming, the least-populated state, has had relatively few coronavirus cases and only 14 deaths. Gordon has gradually lifted restrictions on businesses, allowing people to go to bars and dine in restaurants.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Tourism is Wyoming's second-biggest industry after coal mining and other fossil fuel extraction. But recent surges of the virus in the cities of Casper and Laramie have worried health officials that some residents may not be taking social distancing seriously.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-05-28--China's national security bill for Hong Kong threatens liberties, autonomy: US, Western powers

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Shortly after China ’ s legislature endorsed a national security law for Hong Kong on Thursday , the United States , and governments of Australia , Canada and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement arguing the legislation would “ curtail the Hong Kong people ’ s liberties . ''
The first large-scale protests in months erupted in Hong Kong last week when Chinese officials in Beijing announced plans to consider the bill criminalizing anti-government movements , such as the pro-democracy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most of last year before the coronavirus pandemic .
“ Hong Kong has flourished as a bastion of freedom .
The international community has a significant and long-standing stake in Hong Kong ’ s prosperity and stability , ” the joint statement released by the State Department Thursday said .
“ The proposed law would undermine the One Country , Two Systems framework .
It also raises the prospect of prosecution in Hong Kong for political crimes , and undermines existing commitments to protect the rights of Hong Kong people.
” China 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law on Hong Kong , rather than through Hong Kong ’ s own institutions , lies in direct conflict with the United Nations-registered Sino-British Joint Declaration , the statement said .
The 1997 agreement handed over Hong Kong , previously a British colony , to Beijing as long as Hong Kong ’ s people were allowed to retain some liberties not afforded to Chinese citizens .
The new law will alter Hong Kong ’ s mini-constitution , or Basic Law , to require the territory to enforce measures decided by China ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) standing committee , a small body controlled by the ruling party that handles most lawmaking .
The National People ’ s Congress , citing national security , almost unanimously approved the bill Thursday , wrapping up an annual session held under intensive anti-coronavirus controls .
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT USING CORONAVIRUS AS 'GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY ' TO CRACK DOWN ON PRO-DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT , ARRESTED ACTIVIST CLAIMS Details will be considered by the Chinese legislature in the weeks to come before the law is expected to go into effect in Hong Kong come September , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s scheduled council elections .
“ We are also extremely concerned that this action will exacerbate the existing deep divisions in Hong Kong society ; the law does nothing to build mutual understanding and foster reconciliation within Hong Kong , ” the joint statement said .
“ Rebuilding trust across Hong Kong society by allowing the people of Hong Kong to enjoy the rights and freedoms they were promised can be the only way back from the tensions and unrest that the territory has seen over the last year .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic requires enhanced trust in governments and international cooperation .
Beijing 's unprecedented move risks having the opposite effect.
” The U.S. , Canada , Australia and the United Kingdom have called on China to work together with the Hong Kong SAR Government and the people of Hong Kong to find a mutually acceptable accommodation .
On Wednesday , Secretary of State Mike Pompeo officially declared that Hong Kong is no longer autonomous from China , days after Beijing first moved to impose new national security legislation on the territory .
CLICK HERE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police already were deployed to the streets last week as Hong Kong lawmakers debated a bill criminalizing the Chinese national anthem .
On Thursday , three pro-democracy lawmakers were ejected from Hong Kong ’ s legislative chamber during a debate over a bill .
Last week , thousands took to the streets , and dozens of protesters flooded a shopping mall chanting slogans alleging Chinese interference in their government .
More than 360 people were arrested , Reuters reported .

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Shortly after China’s legislature endorsed a national security law for Hong Kong on Thursday, the United States, and governments of Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement arguing the legislation would “curtail the Hong Kong people’s liberties."
The first large-scale protests in months erupted in Hong Kong last week when Chinese officials in Beijing announced plans to consider the bill criminalizing anti-government movements, such as the pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong’s for most of last year before the coronavirus pandemic.
“Hong Kong has flourished as a bastion of freedom. The international community has a significant and long-standing stake in Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability,” the joint statement released by the State Department Thursday said. “The proposed law would undermine the One Country, Two Systems framework. It also raises the prospect of prosecution in Hong Kong for political crimes, and undermines existing commitments to protect the rights of Hong Kong people.”
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
China's decision to impose the new national security law on Hong Kong, rather than through Hong Kong’s own institutions, lies in direct conflict with the United Nations-registered Sino-British Joint Declaration, the statement said. The 1997 agreement handed over Hong Kong, previously a British colony, to Beijing as long as Hong Kong’s people were allowed to retain some liberties not afforded to Chinese citizens.
The new law will alter Hong Kong’s mini-constitution, or Basic Law, to require the territory to enforce measures decided by China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) standing committee, a small body controlled by the ruling party that handles most lawmaking.
The National People’s Congress, citing national security, almost unanimously approved the bill Thursday, wrapping up an annual session held under intensive anti-coronavirus controls.
HONG KONG GOVERNMENT USING CORONAVIRUS AS 'GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY' TO CRACK DOWN ON PRO-DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT, ARRESTED ACTIVIST CLAIMS
Details will be considered by the Chinese legislature in the weeks to come before the law is expected to go into effect in Hong Kong come September, around the same time as the territory’s scheduled council elections.
“We are also extremely concerned that this action will exacerbate the existing deep divisions in Hong Kong society; the law does nothing to build mutual understanding and foster reconciliation within Hong Kong,” the joint statement said. “Rebuilding trust across Hong Kong society by allowing the people of Hong Kong to enjoy the rights and freedoms they were promised can be the only way back from the tensions and unrest that the territory has seen over the last year.
“The world’s focus on a global pandemic requires enhanced trust in governments and international cooperation. Beijing's unprecedented move risks having the opposite effect.”
The U.S., Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom have called on China to work together with the Hong Kong SAR Government and the people of Hong Kong to find a mutually acceptable accommodation.
On Wednesday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo officially declared that Hong Kong is no longer autonomous from China, days after Beijing first moved to impose new national security legislation on the territory.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Riot police already were deployed to the streets last week as Hong Kong lawmakers debated a bill criminalizing the Chinese national anthem. On Thursday, three pro-democracy lawmakers were ejected from Hong Kong’s legislative chamber during a debate over a bill.
Last week, thousands took to the streets, and dozens of protesters flooded a shopping mall chanting slogans alleging Chinese interference in their government. More than 360 people were arrested, Reuters reported.


foxnews--2020-05-26--Good Samaritans in South Carolina recover $1,300 blowing down highway, help return it to owner

Two good Samaritans recovered $ 1,300 blowing down a South Carolina highway Tuesday morning and helped return the cash to the elderly person who had lost it , authorities said .
Linwood `` Woody '' Smith and “ Jonathan ” Omar Saldivar found the money blowing along Highway 17 in Georgetown County at around 10:30 a.m. , the sheriff ’ s office wrote in a Facebook post .
“ As a result of their quick and honest actions the money was returned to the elderly owner who was actively searching for it , ” the post reads .
To thank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office proclaimed them “ honest men ” and posted a picture of them smiling alongside a patrol vehicle .
Community members praised the two men – including a few people who apparently already knew them .
“ Wouldn ’ t expect anything different from Woody , ” wrote one user , named Dale Hewitt .
It ’ s unclear how the victim dropped the money , but they may have been shopping at a farmer ’ s market nearby .
The act of kindness comes as many people around the country are struggling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the coronavirus .
South Carolina Gov .
Henry McMaster eased some restrictions over the past two weeks as the state reopens incrementally .
“ With our increased capacity for testing the people of our state , it is time to responsibly and gradually get these small businesses back up and running , ” he said at the time .
“ We have an opportunity to set an example for the rest of the world by reinvigorating our economy while staying safe , but we can only do that if South Carolinians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our public health experts.
” CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Georgetown is on South Carolina ’ s coast , south of Myrtle Beach and north of Charleston .
Anyone else who found money in the area is asked to contact the sheriff ’ s office .

Two good Samaritans recovered $1,300 blowing down a South Carolina highway Tuesday morning and helped return the cash to the elderly person who had lost it, authorities said.
Linwood "Woody" Smith and “Jonathan” Omar Saldivar found the money blowing along Highway 17 in Georgetown County at around 10:30 a.m., the sheriff’s office wrote in a Facebook post.
“As a result of their quick and honest actions the money was returned to the elderly owner who was actively searching for it,” the post reads.
To thank the duo, the sheriff’s office proclaimed them “honest men” and posted a picture of them smiling alongside a patrol vehicle.
SOUTH CAROLINA BOY, 6, REELS IN SUNKEN SAFE, HELPS BREAK ROBBERY CASE OPEN
Community members praised the two men – including a few people who apparently already knew them.
“Wouldn’t expect anything different from Woody,” wrote one user, named Dale Hewitt.
It’s unclear how the victim dropped the money, but they may have been shopping at a farmer’s market nearby.
The act of kindness comes as many people around the country are struggling with unemployment, layoffs and shuttered businesses due to the coronavirus.
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster eased some restrictions over the past two weeks as the state reopens incrementally.
“With our increased capacity for testing the people of our state, it is time to responsibly and gradually get these small businesses back up and running,” he said at the time. “We have an opportunity to set an example for the rest of the world by reinvigorating our economy while staying safe, but we can only do that if South Carolinians continue to follow the advice and recommendations of our public health experts.”
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Georgetown is on South Carolina’s coast, south of Myrtle Beach and north of Charleston.
Anyone else who found money in the area is asked to contact the sheriff’s office.


foxnews--2020-05-28--Rep. Scalise on new FISA bill: There must be accountability for 'dirty cops who broke the law'

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Rep. Steve Scalise , R-La.
, explained Thursday his sudden opposition to the bill to reauthorize advanced surveillance tools used by law enforcement , telling Fox News ' Sandra Smith that the FISA court was `` abused by people who were literally trying to start a coup against the president . ''
`` Whether you agree or disagree with the FISA court , it was abused by people who were literally trying to start a coup against the president of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pointing to a slew of recent developments of apparent FBI misconduct in the Russia probe .
`` This court should not be abused to try to take down a candidate for president that some people over at the FBI disagreed with . ''
Scalise made the comment on `` America 's Newsroom '' hours after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer , D-Md.
, decided to officially pull the bill from consideration when it became clear that House Republicans , who supported the bill back in March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
President Trump , who also initially supported the bill , threatened earlier on Wednesday to invoke a veto if it passed .
Scalise said that while the FISA court is `` an important tool in our national security , '' it was `` heavily abused '' by `` dirty cops who broke the law , '' referring to the recent bombshell revelations in connection to the Michael Flynn case and the broader Russia probe .
`` There has been no accountability yet , '' he said .
`` We ’ ve been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accountability and getting all the facts out , we haven ’ t seen all the facts yet and I think the American people deserve to know how this law is important but was abused and that it ’ s not going to happen again . ''
Scalise said that until he can get `` that assurance , '' Republican lawmakers will continue to oppose the bill .
`` There has yet to be accountability , '' the lawmaker reiterated .
`` That needs to happen so the people that are over there now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around anymore to abuse it in the future . ''

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Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., explained Thursday his sudden opposition to the bill to reauthorize advanced surveillance tools used by law enforcement, telling Fox News' Sandra Smith that the FISA court was "abused by people who were literally trying to start a coup against the president."
"Whether you agree or disagree with the FISA court, it was abused by people who were literally trying to start a coup against the president of the United States," Scalise said, pointing to a slew of recent developments of apparent FBI misconduct in the Russia probe.
"This court should not be abused to try to take down a candidate for president that some people over at the FBI disagreed with."
DEMS ABANDON VOTE ON BIPARTISAN FISA BILL
Scalise made the comment on "America's Newsroom" hours after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., decided to officially pull the bill from consideration when it became clear that House Republicans, who supported the bill back in March, would no longer back the measure. President Trump, who also initially supported the bill, threatened earlier on Wednesday to invoke a veto if it passed.
Scalise said that while the FISA court is "an important tool in our national security," it was "heavily abused" by "dirty cops who broke the law," referring to the recent bombshell revelations in connection to the Michael Flynn case and the broader Russia probe.
"There has been no accountability yet," he said. "We’ve been calling for a long time on real accountability and getting all the facts out, we haven’t seen all the facts yet and I think the American people deserve to know how this law is important but was abused and that it’s not going to happen again."
HOUSE DEMS ADJOURN WITHOUT FISA VOTE AFTER TRUMP ANNOUNCES VETO THREAT
Scalise said that until he can get "that assurance," Republican lawmakers will continue to oppose the bill.
"There has yet to be accountability," the lawmaker reiterated. "That needs to happen so the people that are over there now that abused the court, are not around anymore to abuse it in the future."
Fox News' Marisa Schultz contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-05-28--Japanese theme parks will urge guests not to make loud noises on roller coasters upon reopening

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You ’ re still allowed to enjoy the thrill rides .
Just don ’ t be audibly thrilled about it .
An association of theme park operators in Japan has outlined a set of recommended guidelines for the country ’ s popular amusements upon reopening , and it would seem they ’ ll be much cleaner — and quieter — than ever before .
Among the guidelines proposed by the East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations , operators are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected coronavirus prevention measures already being utilized by parks across the globe , such as operating at reduced capacity , increasing the frequency of cleanings , installing handwashing stations , and pre-selling tickets to control the flow of guests .
Visitors should also be given temperature checks before entering , wear masks at all times , and practice social distancing once inside , the guidelines stipulate .
But that ’ s not all — the East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations would also prefer the country ’ s amusement parks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help minimize any droplets emanating from the mouths of entertainers , employees or guests .
To that end , they recommend that patrons and workers be asked to refrain from using a loud voice ( with lots of “ splashes ” ) .
In other cases , where possible , they even advise that employees refrain from using their voice to communicate with guests .
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER “ As a style , even if you are wearing a mask , you can combine smiles , eyes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ associations advised , according to a translation .
Other times , they recommend parks simply print and post signs to get their messages across .
Then again , being quiet in the ticketing line is no big deal — but it ’ s likely a lot harder on the roller coasters , where guests would also be asked to refrain from speaking loudly or making loud noises .
The Agence France-Presse further reports that these requests would apply to guests watching any of the parks ’ live entertainment spectacles .
Performers would also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlet reports , by discouraging viewers from being too audibly dazzled by what they see on stage .
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS These latest guidelines , which are said to be based on the Japanese government ’ s latest recommendations for preventing the spread of coronavoirus , come as theme parks across the globe prepare to reopen .
Popular attractions such as Universal Studios and Walt Disney World have already submitted their plans for reopening in June and July , respectively , and Shanghai Disneyland had already opened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same guidelines already in place , aside from the minimal noise requirements .
The East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations count dozens of theme park and amusement operators as members , including Oriental Land Co. , Ltd. , which operates Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea ; Sanrio Entertainment Inc. , the parent company of Hello Kitty ; and Universal Studios Japan , among others .

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You’re still allowed to enjoy the thrill rides. Just don’t be audibly thrilled about it.
An association of theme park operators in Japan has outlined a set of recommended guidelines for the country’s popular amusements upon reopening, and it would seem they’ll be much cleaner — and quieter — than ever before.
DISNEY WORLD TARGETS JULY 11 AS REOPENING DATE FOR FLORIDA PARKS
Among the guidelines proposed by the East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations, operators are being urged to comply with dozens of expected coronavirus prevention measures already being utilized by parks across the globe, such as operating at reduced capacity, increasing the frequency of cleanings, installing handwashing stations, and pre-selling tickets to control the flow of guests. Visitors should also be given temperature checks before entering, wear masks at all times, and practice social distancing once inside, the guidelines stipulate.
But that’s not all — the East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations would also prefer the country’s amusement parks to be a much quieter place, to help minimize any droplets emanating from the mouths of entertainers, employees or guests. To that end, they recommend that patrons and workers be asked to refrain from using a loud voice (with lots of “splashes”). In other cases, where possible, they even advise that employees refrain from using their voice to communicate with guests.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
“As a style, even if you are wearing a mask, you can combine smiles, eyes, gestures, etc.,” the associations advised, according to a translation. Other times, they recommend parks simply print and post signs to get their messages across.
Then again, being quiet in the ticketing line is no big deal — but it’s likely a lot harder on the roller coasters, where guests would also be asked to refrain from speaking loudly or making loud noises.
The Agence France-Presse further reports that these requests would apply to guests watching any of the parks’ live entertainment spectacles. Performers would also be aiding in this effort, the outlet reports, by discouraging viewers from being too audibly dazzled by what they see on stage.
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE FOX LIFESTYLE NEWS
These latest guidelines, which are said to be based on the Japanese government’s latest recommendations for preventing the spread of coronavoirus, come as theme parks across the globe prepare to reopen. Popular attractions such as Universal Studios and Walt Disney World have already submitted their plans for reopening in June and July, respectively, and Shanghai Disneyland had already opened earlier this month with many of the same guidelines already in place, aside from the minimal noise requirements.
CLICK HERE FOR FOX NEWS' CONTINUING CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
The East Japan and West Japan Amusement Park Associations count dozens of theme park and amusement operators as members, including Oriental Land Co., Ltd., which operates Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea; Sanrio Entertainment Inc., the parent company of Hello Kitty; and Universal Studios Japan, among others.


foxnews--2020-05-28--British schools refuse to reopen under Boris Johnson’s plan amid coronavirus: ‘This is too soon’

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Some British schools are opposing Prime Minister Boris Johnson ’ s decision to send kids back to classrooms on June 1 , saying it is too soon and unsafe to reopen amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic .
The government wants children to start returning to primary schools in stages from June 1 after more than two months of closures .
Those going back first include the youngest — ages 4 to 6 .
Dozens of local authorities have refused to follow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's unions have told members not to engage with planning for an early June opening .
Mary Bousted , joint leader of the National Education Union , last week said the plan is “ simply not safe , it is not fair , it is not feasible.
” In its guidance to schools , the Education Department said face masks are not recommended in schools and acknowledged that young children can ’ t be expected to keep the 6-foot social-distancing guidelines .
It said class sizes should be halved and limited to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be separated into the same small groups .
UK MINISTER QUITS IN LETTER TO JOHNSON OVER TOP ADVISER 'S ACTIONS DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN The National Education Union of Hertfordshire , in southern England , on Thursday called for a delay of at least two weeks , saying the restart “ is too soon and that it is not safe to do this , ” Bishop ’ s Stortford Independent reported .
The union says schools should not reopen until a tracking and tracing system for those infected and a plan for how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place .
Teachers union NASUWT cited a poll of 29,000 members that suggested only 5 percent think the plan is safe , while worried parents have also begun questioning the safety surrounding the decision .
“ We ’ re being asked by lots of parents : ‘ Is my child safe if he or she goes back to school ?
’ ” Sir Jon Coles , head of a charity which runs 85 schools , told The Economist .
Coles has advised the department for education on reopening plans .
English schools will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , France , and elsewhere that are easing restrictions .
Scotland and Northern Ireland , which have their own governments , are not opening schools until August at the earliest .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The United Kingdom has 268,620 confirmed coronavirus cases and 37,542 deaths as of Thursday , according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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Some British schools are opposing Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s decision to send kids back to classrooms on June 1, saying it is too soon and unsafe to reopen amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The government wants children to start returning to primary schools in stages from June 1 after more than two months of closures. Those going back first include the youngest — ages 4 to 6.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Dozens of local authorities have refused to follow the reopening timetable, while some teacher's unions have told members not to engage with planning for an early June opening.
Mary Bousted, joint leader of the National Education Union, last week said the plan is “simply not safe, it is not fair, it is not feasible.”
In its guidance to schools, the Education Department said face masks are not recommended in schools and acknowledged that young children can’t be expected to keep the 6-foot social-distancing guidelines. It said class sizes should be halved and limited to a maximum of 15, and that children should be separated into the same small groups.
UK MINISTER QUITS IN LETTER TO JOHNSON OVER TOP ADVISER'S ACTIONS DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN
The National Education Union of Hertfordshire, in southern England, on Thursday called for a delay of at least two weeks, saying the restart “is too soon and that it is not safe to do this,” Bishop’s Stortford Independent reported.
The union says schools should not reopen until a tracking and tracing system for those infected and a plan for how to social distance in classrooms are in place.
Teachers union NASUWT cited a poll of 29,000 members that suggested only 5 percent think the plan is safe, while worried parents have also begun questioning the safety surrounding the decision.
“We’re being asked by lots of parents: ‘Is my child safe if he or she goes back to school?’” Sir Jon Coles, head of a charity which runs 85 schools, told The Economist. Coles has advised the department for education on reopening plans.
English schools will be following those in Denmark, Germany, France, and elsewhere that are easing restrictions. Scotland and Northern Ireland, which have their own governments, are not opening schools until August at the earliest.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The United Kingdom has 268,620 confirmed coronavirus cases and 37,542 deaths as of Thursday, according to a tally from Johns Hopkins University.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-05-28--De Blasio: NYC to begin 'Phase 1' of coronavirus reopening in 'the first or second week of June'

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New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday that the city will begin “ Phase 1 ” of its reopening in early to mid-June , making it the last part of the state to reopen after the coronavirus lockdowns .
De Blasio , during his daily press conference Thursday , said that New York City is “ now in a position to start opening things up phase by phase.
” NEW YORK CITY IS NOW ONLY PART OF NEW YORK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve been cautious , ” de Blasio said Thursday , noting he ’ s been focused on “ health and safety , and how and when to take steps to start ” reopening.
” De Blasio , though , warned that when he says “ restart , ” he does not mean ” rushing back to something normal.
” “ It ’ s not just flicking a switch , ” de Blasio said , noting that he is working to “ make sure ” that the city can “ avoid a resurgence.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ date for the reopening of New York City , but said that “ based on what we know today , ” the reopening will begin “ in the first or second week of June.
” De Blasio did say , however , that the city is launching an initiative next week for companies that are considered “ Phase 1 companies ” to help them navigate the reopening for their specific industries .
The mayor added that if the city gets the first phase “ correct , ” it “ will be that much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” De Blasio estimated that between 200,000 and 400,000 employees will return to work during “ Phase 1 , ” and said he is working with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority ( MTA ) to work out how mass transit will operate .
De Blasio noted that as more staff return to work , MTA subway services “ can increase.
” The mayor also said that the city will send teams from different city agencies to make sure companies are reopening safely , while noting that the goal is not to penalize the businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ De Blasio did , however , warn that if there are health or safety violations , the city could issue fines .
De Blasio also announced that the city is working to get New York City public schools opened by September 10 .
Meanwhile , de Blasio also warned that the city will face “ massive cuts ” to city agencies due to the coronavirus crisis unless the federal government intervenes with aid or offers additional borrowing ability for the city — his latest plea to Washington for federal funds .
De Blasio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ city faces a multibillion-dollar deficit while pleading for federal and state assistance .
New York City previously estimated $ 7.4 billion in lost revenue due to the coronavirus crisis , but on Wednesday , de Blasio warned that the city is projecting a shortfall of nearly $ 9 billion— possibly more—over the next two fiscal years .
“ We are now $ 9 billion in the hole between the current fiscal year and the one that begins July 1 , ” de Blasio said Wednesday .
“ The only way to possibly keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided , keep people on our payroll , is if we get a really substantial stimulus program from Washington.
” De Blasio , earlier this week , warned of potential cuts , which he said would affect “ all agencies.
” It 's unclear whether the city might consider tax measures as well .
“ There is literally no way that we can solve this problem without federal help or without having to make very , very painful choices that will affect the quality of life in this city , our ability to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re able to employ to support you in the middle of a pandemic , ” he added .
De Blasio ’ s latest plea is the latest example of local and state governments warning about fiscal shortfalls as a result of coronavirus-related shutdowns and lockdowns .
Governors across the nation have also asked for federal aid , but it is unclear whether they will receive additional funds .
CUOMO PUSHES TO ACCELERATE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS AFTER MEETING WITH TRUMP New York has been considered the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive cases of COVID-19 in New York City alone and more than 16,400 deaths as of Thursday Meanwhile , Long Island was approved this week to begin its first phase of reopening .
The region that includes Nassau and Suffolk counties – which combined have suffered nearly 4,000 deaths from the coronavirus -- was given the green light after meeting requirements in contact tracing capacity and a decline in hospitalizations .

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New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Thursday that the city will begin “Phase 1” of its reopening in early to mid-June, making it the last part of the state to reopen after the coronavirus lockdowns.
De Blasio, during his daily press conference Thursday, said that New York City is “now in a position to start opening things up phase by phase.”
NEW YORK CITY IS NOW ONLY PART OF NEW YORK STATE WAITING ON REOPENING
“I’ve been cautious,” de Blasio said Thursday, noting he’s been focused on “health and safety, and how and when to take steps to start” reopening.”
De Blasio, though, warned that when he says “restart,” he does not mean ”rushing back to something normal.”
“It’s not just flicking a switch,” de Blasio said, noting that he is working to “make sure” that the city can “avoid a resurgence.”
De Blasio did not offer a specific date for the reopening of New York City, but said that “based on what we know today,” the reopening will begin “in the first or second week of June.”
De Blasio did say, however, that the city is launching an initiative next week for companies that are considered “Phase 1 companies” to help them navigate the reopening for their specific industries. The mayor added that if the city gets the first phase “correct,” it “will be that much nearer to Phase 2 and other phases.”
De Blasio estimated that between 200,000 and 400,000 employees will return to work during “Phase 1,” and said he is working with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to work out how mass transit will operate. De Blasio noted that as more staff return to work, MTA subway services “can increase.”
DE BLASIO WARNS OF MULTIBILLION-DOLLAR DEFICIT FOR NYC AMID CORONAVIRUS
The mayor also said that the city will send teams from different city agencies to make sure companies are reopening safely, while noting that the goal is not to penalize the businesses, but do more to help. De Blasio did, however, warn that if there are health or safety violations, the city could issue fines.
De Blasio also announced that the city is working to get New York City public schools opened by September 10.
Meanwhile, de Blasio also warned that the city will face “massive cuts” to city agencies due to the coronavirus crisis unless the federal government intervenes with aid or offers additional borrowing ability for the city — his latest plea to Washington for federal funds.
De Blasio earlier this week also warned that the city faces a multibillion-dollar deficit while pleading for federal and state assistance.
New York City previously estimated $7.4 billion in lost revenue due to the coronavirus crisis, but on Wednesday, de Blasio warned that the city is projecting a shortfall of nearly $9 billion— possibly more—over the next two fiscal years.
“We are now $9 billion in the hole between the current fiscal year and the one that begins July 1,” de Blasio said Wednesday. “The only way to possibly keep this city functioning and keep the services provided, keep people on our payroll, is if we get a really substantial stimulus program from Washington.”
De Blasio, earlier this week, warned of potential cuts, which he said would affect “all agencies.” It's unclear whether the city might consider tax measures as well.
“There is literally no way that we can solve this problem without federal help or without having to make very, very painful choices that will affect the quality of life in this city, our ability to provide basic services and how many people we’re able to employ to support you in the middle of a pandemic,” he added.
De Blasio’s latest plea is the latest example of local and state governments warning about fiscal shortfalls as a result of coronavirus-related shutdowns and lockdowns.
Governors across the nation have also asked for federal aid, but it is unclear whether they will receive additional funds.
CUOMO PUSHES TO ACCELERATE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS AFTER MEETING WITH TRUMP
New York has been considered the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States, reporting more than 200,000 positive cases of COVID-19 in New York City alone and more than 16,400 deaths as of Thursday
Meanwhile, Long Island was approved this week to begin its first phase of reopening. The region that includes Nassau and Suffolk counties – which combined have suffered nearly 4,000 deaths from the coronavirus -- was given the green light after meeting requirements in contact tracing capacity and a decline in hospitalizations.


foxnews--2020-05-27--Dem NM governor reportedly violated coronavirus order, kept business open so she could buy jewelry

New Mexico Gov .
Michelle Lujan Grisham reportedly made a purchase from a retail jewelry store last month , at the same time she ordered many industries to temporarily close following her statewide public health order .
Grisham , a Democrat , stressed in April that New Mexicans needed to stay home and should only leave to purchase essential items such as food and medical supplies , KRQE-TV reported .
“ We are in really tough financial times as a state .
It mirrors the incredible , personal sacrifices that happen every single day because people have limited their ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in fact , have lost their jobs , ” she said April 3 .
Days after her remarks , however , she called an employee at the Lilly Barrack jewelry shop in Albuquerque -- where she has a longstanding relationship -- to make a purchase over the phone , the news station reported .
No one was allowed in the store at the time because of the public health order .
Grisham spokeswoman Nora Meyers Sackett told the Albuquerque Journal that the transaction complied with the governor 's emergency public health order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't receive special treatment .
A friend of Grisham 's picked up the purchased items left outside the jewelry store employee 's home , the spokeswoman said .
“ There were no state guidelines broken , ” Sackett said .
“ It was an entirely contact-free purchase.
” Curbside pickup outside stores was n't allowed in the state until May 1 .
Messages to Grisham 's office from Fox News were not immediately returned .
Republican state lawmakers accused Grisham of hypocrisy for not following her own orders .
`` Our Governor is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules they impose on their citizens to address the COVID-19 pandemic don ’ t apply to her , '' the New Mexico Republican Party tweeted Wednesday .
`` A bombshell report reveals that the governor violated her own stay-at-home order to stock up on some high-end jewelry . ''
“ The store was never ‘ opened ’ and a good safe process was followed .
...
The governor has , of course , in both her personal and professional lives adhered to all of the public health measures the state has enacted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sackett said .
Other jewelry store owners told KRQE that they did n't allow anyone inside the business for fear of getting fined .
One noted that they were under the impression that only online sales were allowed .
“ Of course the governor has been telling people to stay home to the greatest extent possible , it 's also true she ’ s been urging New Mexicans to find ways to support local businesses , '' Grisham 's office said , noting that the transaction was unusual .
Grisham and state Senate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the reopening of the state .
She accused the GOP lawmakers earlier this month of `` utter failure and unflinching surrender to the virus ravaging our communities , your communities , and those you represent whether you believe in the danger of this disease or not . ''
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP On Wednesday , restaurants in most of the state were allowed to provide limited outdoor or patio service at up to 50 percent occupancy , and retail stores are allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to continue to ease the restrictions imposed on us by this heinous virus -- provided that we continue on the right track and New Mexicans take every necessary precaution , whether in an individual capacity or as a business owner or employee , '' Grisham tweeted Tuesday .

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham reportedly made a purchase from a retail jewelry store last month, at the same time she ordered many industries to temporarily close following her statewide public health order.
Grisham, a Democrat, stressed in April that New Mexicans needed to stay home and should only leave to purchase essential items such as food and medical supplies, KRQE-TV reported.
“We are in really tough financial times as a state. It mirrors the incredible, personal sacrifices that happen every single day because people have limited their ability to work, telecommuting and many people, in fact, have lost their jobs,” she said April 3.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Days after her remarks, however, she called an employee at the Lilly Barrack jewelry shop in Albuquerque -- where she has a longstanding relationship -- to make a purchase over the phone, the news station reported.
No one was allowed in the store at the time because of the public health order.
Grisham spokeswoman Nora Meyers Sackett told the Albuquerque Journal that the transaction complied with the governor's emergency public health order at the time and that she didn't receive special treatment. A friend of Grisham's picked up the purchased items left outside the jewelry store employee's home, the spokeswoman said.
“There were no state guidelines broken,” Sackett said. “It was an entirely contact-free purchase.”
Curbside pickup outside stores wasn't allowed in the state until May 1. Messages to Grisham's office from Fox News were not immediately returned.
Republican state lawmakers accused Grisham of hypocrisy for not following her own orders.
"Our Governor is the latest Democrat to decide that the rules they impose on their citizens to address the COVID-19 pandemic don’t apply to her," the New Mexico Republican Party tweeted Wednesday. "A bombshell report reveals that the governor violated her own stay-at-home order to stock up on some high-end jewelry."
“The store was never ‘opened’ and a good safe process was followed. ... The governor has, of course, in both her personal and professional lives adhered to all of the public health measures the state has enacted for the duration of this pandemic," Sackett said.
Other jewelry store owners told KRQE that they didn't allow anyone inside the business for fear of getting fined. One noted that they were under the impression that only online sales were allowed.
“Of course the governor has been telling people to stay home to the greatest extent possible, it's also true she’s been urging New Mexicans to find ways to support local businesses," Grisham's office said, noting that the transaction was unusual.
Grisham and state Senate Republicans have clashed in recent weeks over the reopening of the state. She accused the GOP lawmakers earlier this month of "utter failure and unflinching surrender to the virus ravaging our communities, your communities, and those you represent whether you believe in the danger of this disease or not."
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP
On Wednesday, restaurants in most of the state were allowed to provide limited outdoor or patio service at up to 50 percent occupancy, and retail stores are allowed to operate at 25 percent capacity.
"I greatly look forward to being able to continue to ease the restrictions imposed on us by this heinous virus -- provided that we continue on the right track and New Mexicans take every necessary precaution, whether in an individual capacity or as a business owner or employee," Grisham tweeted Tuesday.


foxnews--2020-05-28--Knights of Columbus providing up to $100M in coronavirus aid to churches struggling with donations

With churches around the country financially squeezed by the coronavirus shutdowns -- which banned in-person services for months in many places -- a faith-based investment firm is getting involved .
“ When you don ’ t have Mass , not everybody is necessarily thinking , ‘ Gosh , father needs money for keeping the lights on , ’ ” said Tony Minopoli , the president and chief investment officer of The Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors .
The firm is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the eponymous fraternal order , and it 's providing up to $ 100 million in lines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suffering from a lack of donations due to COVID-19 shutdowns .
Each individual diocese can apply for up to $ 1 million .
The short-term lines of credit carry a roughly 2 percent interest rate for two years .
At the end of the term , borrowers can convert the balance to a five- , 10- or 20-year fixed-rate , low-interest loan similar to the type that the Knights of Columbus have offered to Catholic entities since 1896 , Minopoli told Fox News .
CHRISTIAN BAND RESPONDS TO ITS LEAD SINGER SAYING HE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ church is largely in the same situation as many , many small businesses , ” Minopoli said , as both small businesses and churches are looking at how they can stay afloat until daily life returns to normal .
The shutdowns have resulted in steep financial consequences .
And the federal Paycheck Protection Program ( PPP ) , which issued aid to small businesses , including some churches , has limitations on how the money it provided can be spent .
Even with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week with an eye toward reopening , many church doors remain closed .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Coronavirus restrictions that banned large gatherings and mandated social distancing have resulted in many empty churches from coast to coast .
And faith leaders expect to continue to see diminished giving as their congregants readjust , while maintenance and overhead costs remain the same .
Additional sanitation measures in the post-pandemic world might even increase expenses , Minopoli told Fox News .
So the Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors wanted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do not have mandates on how the funds can be spent .
CONNECTICUT PRIEST , KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FOUNDER MICHAEL MCGIVNEY TO BE BEATIFIED , VATICAN SAYS The Knights of Columbus organization was founded in 1882 in New Haven , Conn. , by Michael J. McGivney , whom the Vatican announced on Wednesday will be beatified -- a major step toward Roman Catholic sainthood .
“ For a simple local parish priest to have a vision of what this thing could become is pretty amazing , ” Minopoli added .
“ And for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saint -- pretty cool stuff .
”

With churches around the country financially squeezed by the coronavirus shutdowns -- which banned in-person services for months in many places -- a faith-based investment firm is getting involved.
“When you don’t have Mass, not everybody is necessarily thinking, ‘Gosh, father needs money for keeping the lights on,’” said Tony Minopoli, the president and chief investment officer of The Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors.
The firm is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the eponymous fraternal order, and it's providing up to $100 million in lines of credit to dioceses around the country suffering from a lack of donations due to COVID-19 shutdowns. Each individual diocese can apply for up to $1 million.
The short-term lines of credit carry a roughly 2 percent interest rate for two years. At the end of the term, borrowers can convert the balance to a five-, 10- or 20-year fixed-rate, low-interest loan similar to the type that the Knights of Columbus have offered to Catholic entities since 1896, Minopoli told Fox News.
CHRISTIAN BAND RESPONDS TO ITS LEAD SINGER SAYING HE NO LONGER BELIEVES IN GOD
“The church is largely in the same situation as many, many small businesses,” Minopoli said, as both small businesses and churches are looking at how they can stay afloat until daily life returns to normal.
The shutdowns have resulted in steep financial consequences. And the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which issued aid to small businesses, including some churches, has limitations on how the money it provided can be spent.
Even with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issuing temporary guidelines for communities of faith last week with an eye toward reopening, many church doors remain closed.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Coronavirus restrictions that banned large gatherings and mandated social distancing have resulted in many empty churches from coast to coast.
And faith leaders expect to continue to see diminished giving as their congregants readjust, while maintenance and overhead costs remain the same. Additional sanitation measures in the post-pandemic world might even increase expenses, Minopoli told Fox News.
So the Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors wanted to bridge the gap with low-interest loans that do not have mandates on how the funds can be spent.
CONNECTICUT PRIEST, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FOUNDER MICHAEL MCGIVNEY TO BE BEATIFIED, VATICAN SAYS
The Knights of Columbus organization was founded in 1882 in New Haven, Conn., by Michael J. McGivney, whom the Vatican announced on Wednesday will be beatified -- a major step toward Roman Catholic sainthood.
“For a simple local parish priest to have a vision of what this thing could become is pretty amazing,” Minopoli added. “And for a guy from Connecticut to become a saint -- pretty cool stuff.”


foxnews--2020-05-28--Nationals' Max Scherzer: Players aren't budging on salary reductions, won't accept another pay cut

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Washington Nationals star Max Scherzer became the latest major athlete in the sport to dismiss Major League Baseball ’ s reported economic plan of a sliding scale salary to start the coronavirus-shortened 2020 season .
The World Series champion pitcher , a member of the MLB Players Association ’ s executive subcommittee , tweeted Wednesday that players are not going to take a pay cut beyond the prorated salaries they already agreed to when the league shut down during spring training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the rest of the players there ’ s no reason to engage with MLB in any further compensation reductions , ” Scherzer wrote .
“ We have previously negotiated a pay cut in the version of prorated salaries , and there ’ s no justification to accept a 2nd pay cut based upon the current information the union has received .
“ I ’ m glad to hear other players voicing the same viewpoint and believe MLB ’ s economic strategy would completely change if all documentation were to become public information.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that owners initially approved for their negotiators earlier this month , the league reportedly proposed a sliding-scale that would cut salaries for some of the players making the most money .
A 'S TO PLACE SCOUTS ON FURLOUGH , END MINOR LEAGUE PAY The proposal offers lower-salaried players a higher percentage of their expected wages while the biggest money-makers take a cut of their salaries , according to the Associated Press .
A rookie at the league minimum would keep about 47 percent of his original salary while players like Mike Trout and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ percent .
A player would reportedly keep 90 percent of his salary up to the $ 563,500 league minimum , including those with lower salaries while on optional or outright assignments .
The amount would decrease to 72.5 percent from $ 563,501 through $ 1 million to 50 percent from 1,000,001 through $ 5 million , to 40 percent from $ 5,000,001 through $ 10 million , to 30 percent from $ 10,000,001 through $ 20 million and to 20 percent from $ 20,000,001 and up .
Each player ’ s number then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed to in March , causing a 49.4 percent loss , according to the Associated Press .
There would also be an additional $ 200 million in postseason bonus money that would be given in a higher proportion to players with larger salaries .
CHIPPER JONES CAUTIONS PLAYERS AGAINST PUBLICLY SPEAKING OUT OVER REDUCED-SALARY GRIPES The players and the league had already agreed to a deal guaranteeing a $ 170 million lump-sum payment and service time if the pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 season and prorated pay if the league could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York Post .
The agreement also allowed for possible reconsideration of the agreement if the pandemic prevented fans from attending the ballparks .
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM The union plans to counter the league ’ s offer by the end of the week with a plan that includes 100 games , instead of 82 , and a guarantee of full prorated salaries , ESPN reported .
The Associated Press contributed to this report .

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Washington Nationals star Max Scherzer became the latest major athlete in the sport to dismiss Major League Baseball’s reported economic plan of a sliding scale salary to start the coronavirus-shortened 2020 season.
The World Series champion pitcher, a member of the MLB Players Association’s executive subcommittee, tweeted Wednesday that players are not going to take a pay cut beyond the prorated salaries they already agreed to when the league shut down during spring training.
MLB'S REPORTED ECONOMIC PROPOSAL TO PLAYERS FAILS TO DRAW FAVOR
“After discussing the latest developments with the rest of the players there’s no reason to engage with MLB in any further compensation reductions,” Scherzer wrote. “We have previously negotiated a pay cut in the version of prorated salaries, and there’s no justification to accept a 2nd pay cut based upon the current information the union has received.
“I’m glad to hear other players voicing the same viewpoint and believe MLB’s economic strategy would completely change if all documentation were to become public information.”
Rather than the 50-50 revenue-sharing plan that owners initially approved for their negotiators earlier this month, the league reportedly proposed a sliding-scale that would cut salaries for some of the players making the most money.
A'S TO PLACE SCOUTS ON FURLOUGH, END MINOR LEAGUE PAY
The proposal offers lower-salaried players a higher percentage of their expected wages while the biggest money-makers take a cut of their salaries, according to the Associated Press. A rookie at the league minimum would keep about 47 percent of his original salary while players like Mike Trout and Gerrit Cole would lose more than 77 percent.
A player would reportedly keep 90 percent of his salary up to the $563,500 league minimum, including those with lower salaries while on optional or outright assignments. The amount would decrease to 72.5 percent from $563,501 through $1 million to 50 percent from 1,000,001 through $5 million, to 40 percent from $5,000,001 through $10 million, to 30 percent from $10,000,001 through $20 million and to 20 percent from $20,000,001 and up.
Each player’s number then would be prorated by the 82/162 formula agreed to in March, causing a 49.4 percent loss, according to the Associated Press. There would also be an additional $200 million in postseason bonus money that would be given in a higher proportion to players with larger salaries.
CHIPPER JONES CAUTIONS PLAYERS AGAINST PUBLICLY SPEAKING OUT OVER REDUCED-SALARY GRIPES
The players and the league had already agreed to a deal guaranteeing a $170 million lump-sum payment and service time if the pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 season and prorated pay if the league could start playing again, according to the New York Post.
The agreement also allowed for possible reconsideration of the agreement if the pandemic prevented fans from attending the ballparks.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
The union plans to counter the league’s offer by the end of the week with a plan that includes 100 games, instead of 82, and a guarantee of full prorated salaries, ESPN reported.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


foxnews--2020-05-28--California pastor claims state has 'discriminated against,' 'denigrated' churches in reopening plan

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Bishop Arthur Hodges , pastor of South Bay United Pentecostal Church in Chula Vista , Calif. , joined `` The Story '' Wednesday to discuss his emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that California Gov .
Gavin Newsom is violating the First Amendment by not allowing his church to reopen without restrictions .
`` It 's a fight not only for the rights of the church I pastor and other churches that I am responsible for , but all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the nation that have been discriminated against in the reopening plans of states where they are allowing other essential and even nonessential entities to open , '' Hodges told host Martha MacCallum .
`` And they 're not allowing churches to open . ''
Newsom on Monday released guidelines for reopening houses of worship amid the coronavirus pandemic after President Trump deemed them “ essential ” on Friday .
Under the governor ’ s guidelines , churches and other houses of worship can reopen if county health officials approve .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of capacity or 100 people , whichever number is fewer .
California churches in California must also set out physical distancing guidelines , establish new cleaning and disinfection protocols , encourage all attendees to wear face masks and set parameters for singing and group recitations .
Hodges says he does n't believe Newsom is specifically targeting churches but questions why places of worship have been ignored in the state 's reopening plan .
`` That 's what we meant in our filing when we said we 've been denigrated , '' Hodges said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two ago , we 've been left in stage three with no date to open , still yet to be determined , while factories continue to operate with no restrictions on how many people [ can be ] in the factories , hundreds of people in the factories spaced just a few feet apart , airplanes continue to fly with zero state or federal regulations . ''
A San Diego federal judge and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Hodges ' civil rights lawsuit earlier this month .

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Bishop Arthur Hodges, pastor of South Bay United Pentecostal Church in Chula Vista, Calif., joined "The Story" Wednesday to discuss his emergency appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court arguing that California Gov. Gavin Newsom is violating the First Amendment by not allowing his church to reopen without restrictions.
"It's a fight not only for the rights of the church I pastor and other churches that I am responsible for, but all of the churches in California, really across the nation that have been discriminated against in the reopening plans of states where they are allowing other essential and even nonessential entities to open," Hodges told host Martha MacCallum. "And they're not allowing churches to open."
NEWSOM LETS MORE BUSINESSES REOPEN AMID CORONAVIRUS, AFTER REVEALING STAGGERING BUDGET DEFICIT
Newsom on Monday released guidelines for reopening houses of worship amid the coronavirus pandemic after President Trump deemed them “essential” on Friday.
Under the governor’s guidelines, churches and other houses of worship can reopen if county health officials approve. However, attendance must be limited to 25 percent of capacity or 100 people, whichever number is fewer.
California churches in California must also set out physical distancing guidelines, establish new cleaning and disinfection protocols, encourage all attendees to wear face masks and set parameters for singing and group recitations.
Hodges says he doesn't believe Newsom is specifically targeting churches but questions why places of worship have been ignored in the state's reopening plan.
CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
"That's what we meant in our filing when we said we've been denigrated," Hodges said. "Until just a day or two ago, we've been left in stage three with no date to open, still yet to be determined, while factories continue to operate with no restrictions on how many people [can be] in the factories, hundreds of people in the factories spaced just a few feet apart, airplanes continue to fly with zero state or federal regulations."
A San Diego federal judge and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Hodges' civil rights lawsuit earlier this month.


foxnews--2020-05-28--Johnny Cash's granddaughter heckled for wearing protective mask to grocery store, Rosanne Cash says

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Johnny Cash 's granddaughter was taunted for wearing a protective face mask while taking an innocent trip to the grocery store .
The late singer 's daughter Rosanne Cash tweeted about the ordeal on Tuesday .
`` My daughter lives in Nashville & wore her mask to buy groceries .
Guy yells at her : 'Liberal p -- -y ! '
'' she tweeted .
Throughout the United States and beyond , citizens are recommended to wear protective gear amid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses enforcing it .
Rosanne furthered that her daughter needs to be especially careful when it comes to COVID-19 because of a scary encounter she once had with a strain of the flu .
She did not reveal which one of her daughters this happened to .
`` Back story : she nearly died of H1N1 .
She was in the ICU for a week , on a ventilator for 3 days .
She CAN NOT get covid .
The ignorance & hatred is so painful .
She ’ s trying to survive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rosanne 's tweet received over 47,000 retweets .
She also received comments from friends and followers who agreed .
`` Imagine some idiot calling Johnny Cashs granddaughter a p -- -y .
May the ghost of Johnny cash hound him all of his days !
! ''
actress Patricia Arquette tweeted in response .
`` Just like your daughter every single one of us are trying to survive .
She wears her mask proudly , '' another wrote .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Others called the situation `` awful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for `` being a hero . ''

Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here.
Johnny Cash's granddaughter was taunted for wearing a protective face mask while taking an innocent trip to the grocery store.
The late singer's daughter Rosanne Cash tweeted about the ordeal on Tuesday.
"My daughter lives in Nashville & wore her mask to buy groceries. Guy yells at her: 'Liberal p---y!'" she tweeted.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
Throughout the United States and beyond, citizens are recommended to wear protective gear amid the coronavirus pandemic, with many states and businesses enforcing it. Rosanne furthered that her daughter needs to be especially careful when it comes to COVID-19 because of a scary encounter she once had with a strain of the flu. She did not reveal which one of her daughters this happened to.
"Back story: she nearly died of H1N1. She was in the ICU for a week, on a ventilator for 3 days. She CANNOT get covid. The ignorance & hatred is so painful. She’s trying to survive," the upset mother added.
Rosanne's tweet received over 47,000 retweets. She also received comments from friends and followers who agreed.
IRON MAIDEN'S BRUCE DICKINSON RECALLS MEETING JOHNNY CASH, FIGHTING CANCER IN NEW MEMOIR
"Imagine some idiot calling Johnny Cashs granddaughter a p---y. May the ghost of Johnny cash hound him all of his days!!" actress Patricia Arquette tweeted in response.
"Just like your daughter every single one of us are trying to survive. She wears her mask proudly," another wrote.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Others called the situation "awful" and one thanked Roseanne's daughter for "being a hero."


foxnews--2020-05-26--Coronavirus vaccine developed in China shows promise after early study in 100 people

A potential coronavirus vaccine developed in China appeared safe and able to generate an immune response after an early trial in more than 100 people , according to a new study .
The vaccine , called Ad5-nCoV , is being developed by the Chinese company CanSino Biologics , and was one of the first coronavirus vaccines to enter early human trials back in March .
Now , there are more than 100 different coronavirus vaccines in development worldwide , with at least eight of those in the process of human trials .
Ad5-nCoV uses a weakened version of a common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) — which infects human cells but does n't cause disease — to deliver a fragment of genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 , the virus that causes COVID-19 .
This genetic material provides instructions for making the `` spike protein '' on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 .
The idea is that a person 's immune system will create antibodies against the spike protein , which will help fight off the coronavirus if the person is later exposed to it .
Related : 20 of the worst epidemics and pandemics in history In the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) in the journal The Lancet , the researchers tested Ad5-nCoV in 108 healthy people ages 18 to 60 who did n't have COVID-19 .
Participants received either a low , middle or high dose of the vaccine .
Two weeks after vaccination , participants in all three groups showed some level of an immune response to the virus .
By 28 days , nearly all participants had developed antibodies that bound to SARS-CoV-2 ( but do n't necessarily attack the virus ) , and about half of the participants in the low- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participants in the high-dose group developed `` neutralizing antibodies , '' which bind to and disable the virus to prevent it from infecting cells .
The most common side effects were mild pain at the injection site , mild fever , fatigue , headache and muscle pain , the study said .
However , nine participants ( two in the low dose group , two in the middle dose group and five in the high dose group ) developed a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit ( 38.5 degrees Celsius ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group developed a high fever along with fatigue , shortness of breath and muscle pain .
However these effects lasted no more than 48 hours .
Participants were aware of which dose they received , which may have affected their perceptions of the side effects , according to The New York Times .
`` These results represent an important milestone , '' study senior author Wei Chen from the Beijing Institute of Biotechnology in Beijing , China , said in a statement `` However , these results should be interpreted cautiously .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine are unprecedented , and the ability to trigger these immune responses does not necessarily indicate that the vaccine will protect humans from COVID-19 . ''
The researchers have now started a larger , phase 2 study of the vaccine involving 500 participants who will be given a low or intermediate dose of the vaccine , or a placebo .
This study will also include participants over 60 years old , and will look at side effects up to six months after vaccination .
Several other coronavirus vaccine candidates reported promising developments this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , biotech company Moderna announced that 45 volunteers who received doses of its vaccine candidate , called mRNA-1273 , developed antibodies within 15 days , and that the level of antibodies seen in their blood was comparable to that seen in people who have recovered from COVID-19 , Live Science previously reported .
In addition , researchers at Oxford University announced that their vaccine candidate , called ChAdOx1-nCov19 , will now be tested in advanced clinical trials involving more than 10,000 people , and doses could be available as early as this @ @ @ @ @ @ @

A potential coronavirus vaccine developed in China appeared safe and able to generate an immune response after an early trial in more than 100 people, according to a new study.
The vaccine, called Ad5-nCoV, is being developed by the Chinese company CanSino Biologics, and was one of the first coronavirus vaccines to enter early human trials back in March. Now, there are more than 100 different coronavirus vaccines in development worldwide, with at least eight of those in the process of human trials.
Ad5-nCoV uses a weakened version of a common cold virus (known as an adenovirus ) — which infects human cells but doesn't cause disease — to deliver a fragment of genetic material from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This genetic material provides instructions for making the "spike protein" on the surface of SARS-CoV-2. The idea is that a person's immune system will create antibodies against the spike protein, which will help fight off the coronavirus if the person is later exposed to it.
Related: 20 of the worst epidemics and pandemics in history
In the new study, published Friday (May 22) in the journal The Lancet , the researchers tested Ad5-nCoV in 108 healthy people ages 18 to 60 who didn't have COVID-19. Participants received either a low, middle or high dose of the vaccine.
Two weeks after vaccination, participants in all three groups showed some level of an immune response to the virus. By 28 days, nearly all participants had developed antibodies that bound to SARS-CoV-2 (but don't necessarily attack the virus), and about half of the participants in the low- and middle- dose groups and three-quarters of participants in the high-dose group developed "neutralizing antibodies," which bind to and disable the virus to prevent it from infecting cells.
The most common side effects were mild pain at the injection site, mild fever, fatigue, headache and muscle pain, the study said.
However, nine participants (two in the low dose group, two in the middle dose group and five in the high dose group) developed a fever of more than 101 degrees Fahrenheit (38.5 degrees Celsius), and one participant in the high dose group developed a high fever along with fatigue, shortness of breath and muscle pain. However these effects lasted no more than 48 hours.
Participants were aware of which dose they received, which may have affected their perceptions of the side effects, according to The New York Times .
"These results represent an important milestone," study senior author Wei Chen from the Beijing Institute of Biotechnology in Beijing, China, said in a statement "However, these results should be interpreted cautiously. The challenges in the development of a COVD-19 vaccine are unprecedented, and the ability to trigger these immune responses does not necessarily indicate that the vaccine will protect humans from COVID-19."
The researchers have now started a larger, phase 2 study of the vaccine involving 500 participants who will be given a low or intermediate dose of the vaccine, or a placebo. This study will also include participants over 60 years old, and will look at side effects up to six months after vaccination.
Several other coronavirus vaccine candidates reported promising developments this week. On Monday (May 18), biotech company Moderna announced that 45 volunteers who received doses of its vaccine candidate, called mRNA-1273, developed antibodies within 15 days, and that the level of antibodies seen in their blood was comparable to that seen in people who have recovered from COVID-19, Live Science previously reported .
In addition, researchers at Oxford University announced that their vaccine candidate, called ChAdOx1-nCov19, will now be tested in advanced clinical trials involving more than 10,000 people, and doses could be available as early as this September, according to NBC News .


foxnews--2020-04-11--'Harry Potter' star Rupert Grint, girlfriend Georgia expecting first child together

“ Harry Potter ” star Rupert Grint and his girlfriend Georgia Groome are expecting their first child together .
“ Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome are excited to announce they are expecting a baby and would please ask for privacy at this time , ” a rep for the pair confirmed to Page Six on Friday .
Grint , 31 , and actress Groome , 28 , who ’ s best known for roles in “ London to Brighton , ” and “ Angus , Thongs and Perfect Snogging , ” have been together since 2011 .
'HARRY POTTER ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ THE FRANCHISE Groome ’ s growing baby bump was revealed on Thursday when the couple were snapped stocking up on supplies amid the coronavirus lockdown in North London .
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Grint , who rose to fame playing Ron Weasley in the “ Harry Potter ” movies , was 11 when he was cast in the first film .
Since then , he ’ s appeared in several movies and TV shows , including the sitcom “ Sick Note.
” This article originally appeared in Page Six

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“Harry Potter” star Rupert Grint and his girlfriend Georgia Groome are expecting their first child together.
“Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome are excited to announce they are expecting a baby and would please ask for privacy at this time,” a rep for the pair confirmed to Page Six on Friday.
Grint, 31, and actress Groome, 28, who’s best known for roles in “London to Brighton,” and “Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging,” have been together since 2011.
Groome’s growing baby bump was revealed on Thursday when the couple were snapped stocking up on supplies amid the coronavirus lockdown in North London.
Grint, who rose to fame playing Ron Weasley in the “Harry Potter” movies, was 11 when he was cast in the first film. Since then, he’s appeared in several movies and TV shows, including the sitcom “Sick Note.”