newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Trump rescues America — again, and other commentary

Eye on the economy : Don Rescues US — Again “ President Trump showed once again Saturday that he places America and the American people first when ” he used his executive powers to end the congressional gridlock over the next coronavirus relief package , cheers Andy Puzder at FoxNews.com .
“ Democrats have made it increasingly obvious that they view the virus as an opportunity to demonize Trump ” and to push “ radical priorities.
” The president sidestepped their machinations with decisive action , “ signing four executive orders ” that “ extend a lifeline to American families.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Lawless NRA Lawsuit New York Attorney General Letitia James ’ attempt to dissolve the National Rifle Association is not only “ bananas , ” but also “ a plainly partisan political attack , ” charge the editors of National Review .
To be sure , she may well uncover “ actionable financial wrongdoing ” among NRA leadership.
” Failing that , though , nonprofit honchos don ’ t “ take a vow of poverty , ” and the NRA ’ s decision to compensate its execs “ rather splendidly ” is “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boss Wayne LaPierre did commit crimes by spending “ funds on himself and his family , ” as James claims , the feds haven ’ t accused him of anything , and she has decided to seek dissolution instead of just indicting him .
It all adds up to “ pure political score-settling ” — an  “ assault on the First Amendment , the rule of law and democracy itself.
” Many poverty-fighting organizations are seeing large drops in the number of clients , reports True Charity Initiative director Nathan Mayo at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has “ vaulted.
” So “ where did these clients go ?
” Turns out , the government is delivering so many truckloads of perishable food that some nonprofits and churches are “ giving it out with no questions asked.
” This “ indiscriminate assistance has diverted ” many of the poor from “ holistic , development-oriented nonprofits ” and enticed them “ with help that fails to incorporate any element of challenge.
” Yet “ massive food distribution is unnecessary.
” And the “ national fervor to ‘ do something ’ is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the long-term success of impoverished Americans .
Those Americans need more than a handout ; they need to know someone who cares.
” Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently claimed that a statue of Saint Damien of Molokai in the US Capitol represents “ patriarchy and white-supremacist culture.
” Yet , Chad Pecknold counters at First Things , “ reality is quite different ” from AOC ’ s “ projections.
” Born Jozef De Veuster in 1840 in Belgium , he entered a religious order at age 19 and was dispatched to the Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ island of Molokai , “ without the solace of their families , or the church , Hawaiian lepers were essentially exiled.
” The future saint went to Molokai “ to establish a parish for the lepers ” but ended up staying nearly two decades .
He built “ schools , roads , an orphanage , a hospital , a graveyard ” before succumbing to leprosy himself .
“ The prime minister of Hawaii called him ‘ a Christian hero.
’ The princess of the Kingdom of Hawaii bestowed upon him the highest honors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statue of this ‘ white man ’ in front of their state capitol building.
” Thus , AOC ’ s “ narrative , filled with its own curious form of hate , dehumanizes the man who exemplifies what it means to cherish human dignity.
” During previous pandemics , some “ vastly more lethal ” than COVID-19 , “ life went on , ” Lionel Shriver notes at Spectator USA .
Not now , alas — because elites have “ oversold ” this virus .
Many Americans believe the coronavirus has killed “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the actual number is about 162,200 .
Such “ exaggerated impressions of lethality ” seem the result of “ a stupendously successful propaganda campaign ” that tells us to sacrifice friends , family , any “ communal experience ” and the economy as “ fearful prophylactic measures.
” Most “ horrifying ” of all , lockdown may well become “ officialdom ’ s established knee-jerk response to any new contagion.
” How can “ an erstwhile ‘ free people ’ ” live like that ?

Eye on the economy: Don Rescues US — Again
“President Trump showed once again Saturday that he places America and the American people first when” he used his executive powers to end the congressional gridlock over the next coronavirus relief package, cheers Andy Puzder at FoxNews.com. “Democrats have made it increasingly obvious that they view the virus as an opportunity to demonize Trump” and to push “radical priorities.” The president sidestepped their machinations with decisive action, “signing four executive orders” that “extend a lifeline to American families.” Kudos!
From the right: A Lawless NRA Lawsuit
New York Attorney General Letitia James’ attempt to dissolve the National Rifle Association is not only “bananas,” but also “a plainly partisan political attack,” charge the editors of National Review. To be sure, she may well uncover “actionable financial wrongdoing” among NRA leadership.” Failing that, though, nonprofit honchos don’t “take a vow of poverty,” and the NRA’s decision to compensate its execs “rather splendidly” is “not a crime.” Even if NRA boss Wayne LaPierre did commit crimes by spending “funds on himself and his family,” as James claims, the feds haven’t accused him of anything, and she has decided to seek dissolution instead of just indicting him. It all adds up to “pure political score-settling” — an “assault on the First Amendment, the rule of law and democracy itself.”
Poverty watch: When Aid Backfires
Many poverty-fighting organizations are seeing large drops in the number of clients, reports True Charity Initiative director Nathan Mayo at The Washington Examiner — even though unemployment has “vaulted.” So “where did these clients go?” Turns out, the government is delivering so many truckloads of perishable food that some nonprofits and churches are “giving it out with no questions asked.” This “indiscriminate assistance has diverted” many of the poor from “holistic, development-oriented nonprofits” and enticed them “with help that fails to incorporate any element of challenge.” Yet “massive food distribution is unnecessary.” And the “national fervor to ‘do something’ is undermining the efforts of skillful nonprofits dedicated to the long-term success of impoverished Americans. Those Americans need more than a handout; they need to know someone who cares.”
Theologian: AOC Smears a Saint
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently claimed that a statue of Saint Damien of Molokai in the US Capitol represents “patriarchy and white-supremacist culture.” Yet, Chad Pecknold counters at First Things, “reality is quite different” from AOC’s “projections.” Born Jozef De Veuster in 1840 in Belgium, he entered a religious order at age 19 and was dispatched to the Kingdom of Hawaii. There, on the island of Molokai, “without the solace of their families, or the church, Hawaiian lepers were essentially exiled.” The future saint went to Molokai “to establish a parish for the lepers” but ended up staying nearly two decades. He built “schools, roads, an orphanage, a hospital, a graveyard” before succumbing to leprosy himself. “The prime minister of Hawaii called him ‘a Christian hero.’ The princess of the Kingdom of Hawaii bestowed upon him the highest honors of her people. Hawaiians erected a statue of this ‘white man’ in front of their state capitol building.” Thus, AOC’s “narrative, filled with its own curious form of hate, dehumanizes the man who exemplifies what it means to cherish human dignity.”
Pandemic journal: COVID Hyperbole Syndrome
During previous pandemics, some “vastly more lethal” than COVID-19, “life went on,” Lionel Shriver notes at Spectator USA. Not now, alas — because elites have “oversold” this virus. Many Americans believe the coronavirus has killed “almost 30 million people,” when the actual number is about 162,200. Such “exaggerated impressions of lethality” seem the result of “a stupendously successful propaganda campaign” that tells us to sacrifice friends, family, any “communal experience” and the economy as “fearful prophylactic measures.” Most “horrifying” of all, lockdown may well become “officialdom’s established knee-jerk response to any new contagion.” How can “an erstwhile ‘free people’ ” live like that?
— Compiled by The Post Editorial Board


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Yankees should turn to Clint Frazier for much-needed jolt

Kevin Cash won ’ t let history hinder his team ’ s strategy .
As ...

These guys need a boost.
“I think the off day [Monday] is coming at a good time,” Brett Gardner said Sunday, after his Yankees suffered a walk-off, 4-3 loss to the Rays at Tropicana Field, their fifth loss in seven tries. “We’ve kind of had a crazy schedule. It’ll be good to take a step back and look at some video and reboot and get back after it on Tuesday.”
These guys need a fresh face.
“Overall, we just need to be better collectively as a unit,” Gardner said of the Yankees’ offense.
These guys need Clint Frazier.
OK, I plead guilty to being overdramatic. These Yankees (10-6) — who still lead the American League East by two games over the Rays (8-8) during a season when winning the division won’t bring much reward thanks to the expanded playoff structure — hardly are in free-fall. Even Sunday’s gut-punch loss brought with it some notable good news with the revival of James Paxton, who dominated through six innings, allowing just one hit and striking out 11, before Aaron Boone pushed his luck with the southpaw and paid for it in the seventh.
As Gardner referenced, however, the Yankees’ ultra-deep offensive core has hit a mild funk. The aforementioned “crazy schedule” saw those seven games get played during these past five days, and only twice did they exceed their average runs per game of 4.9. They lost one of their top performers Saturday when the perpetually fragile Giancarlo Stanton strained his left hamstring, going on the injured list Sunday.
And Frazier brings, if nothing else, energy as well as the potential to go on a roll. After a strong spring training 1.0 that saw him in position to be an outfield regular with Stanton and Aaron Judge both injured, he looked strong in spring training 2.0, as well, making the Opening Day roster only to get sent to the alternate site during the first weekend thanks to the healing of Judge and Stanton (temporary, in his case) creating a surplus of bats.
Stanton is out, though, and Miguel Andujar is down, optioned to the alternate site on Thursday after he began the season a meager 1-for-14. The Yankees made a telling statement Sunday by replacing Stanton with infielder Thairo Estrada rather than Andujar, both men with the club as part of the taxi squad. As per the rules surrounding minor-league options, Andujar must spend 10 days at the alternate site unless he fills the spot of an injured player. So while he could have been tabbed for Stanton, he can’t for Estrada, whose slot Boone said Sunday would be reassessed moving forward.
It therefore makes sense to replace the bat Stanton with the bat Frazier, who wasn’t on the taxi squad; even if the 25-year-old doesn’t start against a right-handed starting pitcher (the Braves will go with righty Touki Toussaint in the Yankees’ next game, Tuesday in The Bronx), he can serve as a bench weapon against lefty relievers. Shoot, if the Yankees’ starting pitching doesn’t round into shape as well as they hope by the Aug. 31 trade deadline, Frazier could both potentially help the Yankees and showcase himself as a trade chip for a pitcher.
Boone downplayed any concerns he held about his offense. Said the manager: “You know when you come here and play these guys that runs are going to be at a premium. They’re very good at run prevention. They do a really good job at that. They have a lot of quality arms. They match up really well. So they make it difficult. I think it’s a little bit of that.
“We still came in here and scored enough to be able to win some games. … I feel like we should be in a good spot here moving forward with where our guys are.”
They should be, and Frazier can make it even better. The firebrand seems to have learned from past pinstriped mistakes, and he even wore a mask during his at-bats in camp, a symbol we could use against the frighteningly large anti-science contingent out there.
Let’s see how the Yankees cope with their first 2020 moment of adversity. Let’s see if Frazier can help them deal with it. The rewards clearly outweigh the risks.


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Man fatally shot in the head at Brooklyn handball court

A 53-year-old man was killed by a stray bullet at a Brooklyn handball court on Sunday , police said .
@ @ @ @ @ shot to the head inside Lincoln Terrace Park off Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights at @ @ @ @ @ .
The man was pronounced dead on scene .
He was not immediately identified by @ @ @ @ @ victim was caught in the crossfire of two nearby groups in the park , police @ @ @ @ @ unclear what sparked the beef between the two sides .
No arrests were made as @ @ @ @

A 53-year-old man was killed by a stray bullet at a Brooklyn handball court on Sunday, police said.
The innocent bystander was found shot to the head inside Lincoln Terrace Park off Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights at about 5:45 p.m. cops said.
The man was pronounced dead on scene. He was not immediately identified by authorities.
Investigators believe the victim was caught in the crossfire of two nearby groups in the park, police said.
It’s unclear what sparked the beef between the two sides.
No arrests were made as of late Sunday.


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--NY’s largest hospital network had to buy garden hoses to fix ventilators: book

Bandannas , gaiters and knitted masks are some of the least ...

At one point during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, staffers at New York’s largest hospital network were forced to shop at hardware stores for garden hoses to make the ventilators they had received from the state actually work, according to a new book.
This experience and many others resulted in Northwell Health seeking to buy its own medical supply company so it never again has to rely on China or other governments for vital goods like vents, scrubs and masks.
“We should never again have less than a robust stockpile of ventilators and other essential equipment… Overreliance on China to manufacture vital supplies is a perilous gamble,” Northwell Health executive director Michael Dowling writes in “Leading Through a Pandemic.”
“We at Northwell Health are considering acquiring a supply company to achieve a measure of self-sufficiency when it comes to vital supplies.”
The newly-published 187-page book — co-written by Dowling and Northwell’s chief journalist/editor Charles Kenney — is believed to be the first major book written by front-line medical providers who confronted the killer bug’s devastating impact on New York, costing 32,000 lives.
Northwell’s network of 23 hospitals treated some 70,000 coronavirus patients — more than anywhere in the country.
But staffers were plagued by a dire lack of medical equipment, so much so that “Even when we did receive much-needed ventilators from New York State, many arrived without parts needed to make them functional,” execs wrote.
“At one point our staff members went to hardware stores to purchase garden hoses which they cut up and attached so vents would work.”
Northwell’s employees also used 3D-printed parts to help fashion makeshift breathing machines and nasal swabs to test patients for COVID-19, the book says.
The over-reliance on foreign companies extended to pharmaceutical drugs, Northwell officials said, suggesting this was a serious national security issue.
“The United States Army didn’t outsource its bullet making to China,” said Dr. Kevin Tracey, CEO of Northwell’s Feinstein Institute for Medical Research.
The hospital network’s strategy to control its future regarding personal protective equipment is just one takeaway from the book, which explores the lessons it learned during the height of the virus outbreak.
Northwell officials said they have been exploring the possibility since May and that there have been ongoing discussions with private manufacturers.
“We’re in talks with a couple of companies. You can’t depend on people overseas for supplies when you are in the middle of a war,” Dowling told The Post on Sunday.
The tome makes 13 recommendations on how to better prepare for a future disaster — one being that the government should abolish or revise existing rules so medical staffers have more flexibility to respond to public health crises.
Fortunately, Northwell officials said, Gov. Andrew Cuomo and federal health officials had this time waived many of regulations and laws, which exempted doctors and hospitals from medical malpractice suits and making it easier to convert space into COVID-treatment units.
Other proposals include protecting the physical and emotional needs of staff, expanding partnerships with other hospital systems across the country and accelerating the movement for tele-health care.
The book treads lightly on the controversy surrounding the 6,500 COVID-19 deaths in New York nursing homes.
Northwell officials generally call for better safety measures in “congregate settings” such as nursing homes.
“There was too much death in these facilities and we have work to prepare safer congregate environments going forward,” they wrote.
The book also describes how the virus depleted staff. At one point 3,500 workers were quarantined for being infected or exposed to the virus, including more than 20 percent at hard-hit Forest Hills and Valley Stream hospitals.
Northwell said it hired thousands of visiting healthcare professionals and redeployed 2,750 staffers, which included mandatory reassignment, when the worst of the pandemic hit.
The virus also took a financial toll, costing Northwell $1.2 billion in lost revenue and added costs. But the provider said it paid bonuses to front-line workers for their heroic work and said it would worry about the financial reckoning later.
In addition to planning for a future pandemic, the book delves into tales of heroism and hearthbreak from the front lines.
At Lenox Hill Hospital, for example, one nurse played the US Navy band’s version of “The Star Spangled Banner” on her iPhone for relatives of a veteran saying their final goodbyes.
Not everyone was lucky enough to have their family nearby when the moment came.
A worker at Staten Island University Hospital describes in the book how he chose to stay at work instead of making his three-hour trek home to Yonkers just to make sure a patient wouldn’t die alone.
“It’s always going to be with me,” John Baez wrote, “the sadness that she couldn’t have a loved one with her, but I couldn’t let her die alone.”
The book describes how Long Island Jewish Forest Hills was so overwhelmed by the pandemic that 423 COVID patients were transferred to its other hospitals during a four-week period — and 17 people died at the Queens hospital on a single day in March.
“Staff members were shell shocked,” the book states.
In one wrenching episode, a woman with the virus gave birth at LIJ Forest Hills and then died. Her husband succumbed to the virus as well, orphaning their newborn.
“In normal times, that would have been such a tragic story that our teams would have been talking about it and little else for a month,” the book states, “but in the crisis it was just another story.”
“Those on the front lines of the crisis will likely be reckoning with the impact of their experiences, and of the many heartbreaking losses for a long time to come.”


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--With a defanged watchdog, NYC’s fiscal future is dicey

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli is warning of major problems with ...

Faced with the biggest New York City fiscal crisis in nearly two generations, the state’s Financial Control Board has punted. The board decided last week that the city’s budget isn’t balanced but not quite imbalanced enough to qualify as an emergency. The inaction demonstrates a grim reality: In the ’70s, when the state created the FCB, New York state was in a political position to rescue the Big Apple. No more.
The FCB is part of the fable that Gotham’s Wise Men tell about the Bad Old Days. In 1975, when the city’s lenders cut off New York City from borrowing, pushing it to the brink of bankruptcy, the state Legislature and Gov. Hugh Carey passed a law. The Financial Emergency Act enabled the new board, heavy with financial experts, to control the city’s budget. (The governor controls four out of seven members.)
For 11 years, the board did good — most importantly, freezing government wages. In the Ed Koch administration, during the early ’80s, the board served as “bad cop” when unions asked for high raises; Koch could say the board wouldn’t let him.
But New York never got its fiscal house in order. The board was also a pioneer in what would become the global economy’s mantra, starting in the ’80s: If you’ve borrowed too much already, just borrow more.
In the mid-’70s, banks thought that New York had borrowed too much money, to pay for day-to-day expenses, not long-term infrastructure. The solution, approved by the board, was for the city to borrow more to pay off those bankers. We still owe that money.
Longer term, New York got lucky. In the early ’80s, Wall Street took off, ironically because of the global debt boom. In 1980, city spending, including only local dollars, not federal and state aid, adjusted for inflation, was $29 billion. In 2019, it was $69 billion.
We still borrow for operating expenses. The city owes $108 billion for future public-sector retiree health-care costs, money the city should have set aside when the future retirees were doing the work. In October, Mayor Bill de Blasio is set to pay teachers and civilian workers a $1.5 billion delayed raise he approved in 2014, for work they did a decade ago.
Now that the city’s luck may have run out, will the board step in? The board must certify that the city’s budget is balanced every year — or else.
Last week, at the meeting to make this determination, the board’s report was tough — slamming de Blasio’s plan, approved in June by the City Council, to close a projected $9.7 billion drop in revenues.
The board picked apart de Blasio’s pretensions, beyond his closing most of the gap with one-shot sources that won’t be available next year.
Of de Blasio’s $1 billion in “unspecified labor savings,” the board’s staff noted: “We have no details on . . . these savings.”
If threatened layoffs are “a viable backup, the city must develop a detailed plan on how and when the layoffs would occur.” Of nearly $400 million in overtime savings: “The city has never shown it can control overtime.”
On federal aid: “The city cannot wait.”
Overall, the staff determined the city likely faces a $2 billion gap for the fiscal year that just started July 1, an imbalanced budget.
So, what’s the “or else”? The board told de Blasio to try again — resubmitting a new plan. If the city is spending nearly $6 billion a month, nearly two months into an imbalanced budget, why not take over the city’s finances now, imposing new wage freezes?
Simple: The board has no powers. Effective with reforms to the Financial Emergency Act made nearly 20 years ago, the board can no longer re-impose a “control period.”
It must go to . . . the state Legislature. But left-wing freshmen lawmakers are highly unlikely to enact a “control period” that enables wage freezes.
Municipal bondholders may figure out that when it comes to a balanced budget, New York long ago defanged its “bad cop.”
Nicole Gelinas is a contributing editor of City Journal. Twitter: @NicoleGelinas


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Letitia James’ political pot-shots at the NRA

There she goes again : Attorney General Tish James last week filed another dubious lawsuit , this one seeking to dissolve the National Rifle Association .
We ’ ve had differences with the pro-gun group over the years , but James ’ attempt to crush it is clearly a political stunt .
She ’ s hoping it will make her a star on the left and lead to favorable headlines for years to come as the suit winds its way through the legal system .
James argues the NRA is so “ fraught with fraud and abuse ” that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chartered in New York — should be shuttered .
The suit names four current or former leaders , including chief executive Wayne LaPierre , whom James accuses of having “ looted ” the organization for personal gain , including travel on private jets and yachts .
The four improperly enriched themselves , friends and family members , costing the group $ 63 million , she charges .
Yes , the NRA ’ s board should certainly examine the allegations , if it hasn ’ t already .
And if LaPierre and others broke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if the charges are true — they should be held accountable .
But dissolve the group ?
Please .
Beat it politically , on the merits , if you ’ re anti-gun and don ’ t like the NRA , but not via shady legal games .
Heck , James isn ’ t even using criminal law to target the organization : Her suit is a civil action .
Recall , too , that James ran for AG two years ago promising to go after the NRA , which she described as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal enterprise.
” Meanwhile , she also went to court against big , bad Exxon over climate ( losing spectacularly ) .
Clearly , she knows how to use her office for political ends .
Too bad that ’ s not what it was meant for .

There she goes again: Attorney General Tish James last week filed another dubious lawsuit, this one seeking to dissolve the National Rifle Association.
We’ve had differences with the pro-gun group over the years, but James’ attempt to crush it is clearly a political stunt. She’s hoping it will make her a star on the left and lead to favorable headlines for years to come as the suit winds its way through the legal system.
James argues the NRA is so “fraught with fraud and abuse” that the 149-year-old group — headquartered in Virginia but chartered in New York — should be shuttered.
The suit names four current or former leaders, including chief executive Wayne LaPierre, whom James accuses of having “looted” the organization for personal gain, including travel on private jets and yachts.
The four improperly enriched themselves, friends and family members, costing the group $63 million, she charges.
Yes, the NRA’s board should certainly examine the allegations, if it hasn’t already. And if LaPierre and others broke any laws — which seems likely, if the charges are true — they should be held accountable.
But dissolve the group? Please.
Beat it politically, on the merits, if you’re anti-gun and don’t like the NRA, but not via shady legal games.
Heck, James isn’t even using criminal law to target the organization: Her suit is a civil action.
Recall, too, that James ran for AG two years ago promising to go after the NRA, which she described as a “terrorist organization” and a “criminal enterprise.”
Meanwhile, she also went to court against big, bad Exxon over climate (losing spectacularly).
Clearly, she knows how to use her office for political ends. Too bad that’s not what it was meant for.


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Astros, A’s brawl after Ramon Laureano charges dugout

The Oakland Athletics and Houston Astros engaged in a bench-clearing brawl Sunday that defied MLB ’ s coronavirus protocols and will likely lead to multiple suspensions .
A ’ s outfielder Ramon Laureano charged the Houston dugout after being hit by a slider from Humberto Castellanos in the seventh inning .
It was the second time Laureano was hit in the back during the A ’ s 7-2 win , as he was hit earlier in the game by Brandon Bailey .
Laureano first barked at Castellanos before engaging in an apparent screaming match with the Astros dugout .
Astros @ @ @ @ @ @ @ egg on the 26-year-old Laureano , waving for Laureano to approach the dugout .
“ Ramon doesn ’ t go over there unless something completely offensive came out of that dugout … That person should get suspended , ” A ’ s manager Bob Melvin told reporters .
Laureano was quickly wrestled to the ground by backup catcher Dustin Garneau and tensions soared for a few minutes .
Laureano and several others weren ’ t wearing masks , however , MLB does not require players on the field to wear face-coverings aimed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I was just trying to stop the situation before punches were really thrown and things got out of hand , ” said Garneau , who called Laureano a “ good dude.
” The two previously played together within the A ’ s organization .
Laureano was ejected , while Castellanos was later taken out of the game .
“ ( Laureano ) got hit by two guys who don ’ t have any time in the big leagues , ” Astros manager Dusty Baker said in defending his pitchers .
“ [ Castellanos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him.
” MLB , as part of its coronavirus protocols that were recently heightened in response to the Marlins and Cardinals ’ outbreaks , prohibits teams from engaging in bench-clearing brawls .
The Astros earlier this season were involved in a bench-clearing incident after two of their players were thrown at by Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly , in what many believed was payback for the Houston cheating scandal that was uncovered in the fall .
That confrontation was short-lived and did not include punches being thrown , as was the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suspended eight games , the equivalent of 22 games during a 162-game season , while Baker and Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts were suspended one game each .
Athletics pitcher and former Astros hurler Mike Fiers in the fall served as the whistleblower in the Astros ’ cheating scandal , which involved stealing signs electronically during Houston ’ s 2017 championship season and parts of 2018 .
Fiers was not scheduled to pitch in this series , and he has largely avoided answering questions about the fallout of the scandal , which resulted in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and GM Jeff Lunhow for one year each .
Both were subsequently fired by the organization .
Alex Cora , a Houston bench coach in 2017 , was fired by the Red Sox for his involvement in the scheme , while the Mets fired Carlos Beltran before he even managed a game , due to his involvement as a player .
The Astors were also fined $ 5 million , the maximum MLB fine , and docked draft picks .
Houston ( 6-9 ) has struggled so far during this 60-game season after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against the Nationals .
They are third in the AL West while the A ’ s ( 12-4 ) are first in the division .

The Athletics and Astros engaged in a bench-clearing brawl Sunday that defied MLB’s coronavirus protocols and will likely lead to multiple suspensions.
A’s outfielder Ramon Laureano, who had taken first base after being plunked for the second time in the game, charged the Houston dugout to spark the fight.
Laureano first barked at Astros reliever Humberto Castellanos before engaging in a screaming match with the Astros dugout. Houston bench coach Alex Cintron then appeared to egg on the 26-year-old Laureano, waving for Laureano to approach the Astros road dugout that is unusually located along the first-base line.
“Ramon doesn’t go over there unless something completely offensive came out of that dugout. … That person should get suspended,” A’s manager Bob Melvin told reporters after his team won, 7-2, in Oakland, Calif.
Laureano was quickly wrestled to the ground by backup catcher Dustin Garneau and tensions soared for a few minutes. Laureano and several others weren’t wearing masks; MLB, however, does not require players on the field to wear face coverings aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.
“I was just trying to stop the situation before punches were really thrown and things got out of hand,” said Garneau, who called Laureano a “good dude.” The two previously played together within the A’s organization.
Laureano was ejected, while Castellanos was later taken out of the game. Astros pitcher Brandon Bailey hit Laureano earlier in the game.
“[Laureano] got hit by two guys who don’t have any time in the big leagues,” Astros manager Dusty Baker said in defending his pitchers. “[Castellanos] wasn’t trying to hit him.”
MLB, as part of its coronavirus protocols that were recently heightened in response to the Marlins and Cardinals’ outbreaks, prohibits teams from engaging in bench-clearing brawls.
The Astros earlier this season were involved in a bench-clearing incident after two of their players were thrown at by Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly, in what many believed was payback for the Houston cheating scandal that was uncovered in the fall.
That confrontation was short-lived and did not include punches being thrown.
Even so, Kelly was suspended eight games during the 60-game season, the equivalent of 22 games during a 162-game season, while Baker and Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts were suspended one game each.
Athletics pitcher and former Astros hurler Mike Fiers in the fall served as the whistleblower in the Astros’ cheating scandal, which involved stealing signs electronically during Houston’s 2017 championship season and parts of 2018.
Fiers was not scheduled to pitch in this series, and he has largely avoided answering questions about the fallout of the scandal, which resulted in MLB suspending Astros manager A.J. Hinch and GM Jeff Luhnow for one year each. Both were subsequently fired by the organization. Alex Cora, a Houston bench coach in 2017, was fired by the Red Sox for his involvement in the scheme, while the Mets fired Carlos Beltran before he even managed a game because of his involvement as a player.
The Astros (6-9) have struggled so far during the abbreviated season and are currently third in the AL West. The Athletics (12-4) are first in the division.


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--NY lawmakers to grill election officials over mail-in ballot debacle

The mail-in ballots of more than 84,000 New York City ...

Lawmakers are expected to press election officials about the extent of preparation for the general election on Nov. 3 — when potentially millions of mail-in ballots could be sent by voters wary of crowded polling sites during the pandemic.
But lawmakers have already raised concerns that the US Postal Service, which was part of the primary mess, is refusing to testify.
“That’s outrageous,” said Senate Elections Committee Chairman Zellnor Myrie (D-Brooklyn) of the Postal Service snub. “This is not a fishing expedition. We want to get this right for the voters in November.”
Myrie added: “We want to know what went wrong and what we can do better.”
A Post analysis of city Board of Election records showed 84,000 mail-in ballots weren’t counted for the Democratic presidential primary.
Some of the reasons for disqualification were: mail-in ballots not properly post-marked, some arrived late, and voters forgot to sign the envelope included with the ballot.
The result was a 21 percent rejection rate for mail-in ballots.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Katherine Schwarzenegger gives birth, welcomes first child with Chris Pratt

Click to email this to a friend ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Twitter ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Facebook ( Opens in new window ) Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger have welcomed the newest little “ Guardian of The Galaxy.
” In a video shared by “ Entertainment Tonight ” on Sunday , Katherine ’ s brother Patrick Schwarzenegger replied “ thank you ” after a photographer congratulated him on becoming an uncle .
“ They ’ re doing great , just got her a little gift , ” Patrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the new baby while holding a box with a pink ribbon .
Pratt , 41 , and Katherine , 30 , tied the knot in June 2019 and announced in April that they were expecting .
Katherine , the daughter of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver , opened up about her pregnancy during an Instagram Live in June , calling Pratt “ a wonderful husband ” while she was expecting .
“ It ’ s been amazing having [ Pratt ] home and also very understanding about my need to sanitize everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pregnant during the coronavirus pandemic .
Pratt , who is also dad to 7-year-old son Jack with ex-wife Anna Faris , told “ Entertainment Tonight ” in 2019 that he sees “ lots of kids ” in his future .
“ I always want to be that guy that works to live , not lives to work ” the Marvel actor explained .
In May , Arnold gushed about his future grandchild to Jimmy Fallon , referencing ex-wife Shriver ’ s connection to the Kennedy family .
“ I was just thinking about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think about this for a second , ” he explained .
“ It is part Kennedy and part Schwarzenegger , and Pratt .
I mean , we can do anything.
” Meanwhile , Shriver , who introduced her daughter to Pratt in June 2018 , has said she ’ s excited about her first grandchild , but doesn ’ t want to be called “ grandma.
” “ I ’ m gon na come up with my own name , ” she joked to “ Entertainment Tonight.
” Reps for Katherine Schwarzenegger and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s requests for comment .

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Chris Pratt and Katherine Schwarzenegger have welcomed the newest little “Guardian of The Galaxy.”
On Monday, Pratt confirmed Schwarzenegger had given birth to a baby girl, Lyla Maria Schwarzenegger Pratt.
“We are beyond thrilled to announce the birth of our daughter, Lyla Maria Schwarzenegger Pratt,” the Marvel star posted on Instagram. “We couldn’t be happier. Both mom and baby are doing great. We are extremely blessed. Love Katherine and Chris.”
Prior to Pratt’s post, Katherine’s brother Patrick Schwarzenegger said mom and baby are “doing great,” in a video shared by “Entertainment Tonight” on Sunday.
“They’re doing great, just got her a little gift,” Patrick, 26, said while holding a box with a pink ribbon.
Pratt, 41, and Katherine, 30, tied the knot in June 2019 and announced in April that they were expecting.
Katherine, the daughter of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver, opened up about her pregnancy during an Instagram Live in June, calling Pratt “a wonderful husband” while she was expecting.
“It’s been amazing having [Pratt] home and also very understanding about my need to sanitize everything,” the author said about being pregnant during the coronavirus pandemic.
Pratt, who is also dad to 7-year-old son Jack with ex-wife Anna Faris, told “Entertainment Tonight” in 2019 that he sees “lots of kids” in his future.
“I always want to be that guy that works to live, not lives to work,” the Marvel actor explained.
In May, Arnold gushed about his future grandchild to Jimmy Fallon, referencing ex-wife Shriver’s connection to the Kennedy family.
“I was just thinking about the gene pool. I mean, think about this for a second,” he explained. “It is part Kennedy and part Schwarzenegger, and Pratt. I mean, we can do anything.”
Meanwhile, Shriver, who introduced her daughter to Pratt in June 2018, has said she’s excited about her first grandchild, but doesn’t want to be called “Grandma.”
“I’m gonna come up with my own name,” she joked to “Entertainment Tonight.”


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--China sanctions six major GOP lawmakers over Hong Kong retaliation

The United Kingdom has announced the suspension of its extradition ...

China has imposed sanctions on 11 US citizens, including six prominent US lawmakers, for their response to “Hong Kong-related issues,” the country’s foreign ministry announced Monday.
“In response to those wrong US behaviors, China has decided to impose sanctions on individuals who have behaved egregiously on Hong Kong-related issues,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said.
Among those targeted were Sens. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), as well as Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ).
Beijing’s sanctions did not include any Trump administration officials, and Zhao did not specify what the sanctions would entail.
The move comes in response to the US imposition of sanctions on 11 Hong Kong and Chinese officials accused of curtailing political freedoms in Hong Kong, a former British colony that was handed back to the Communist nation in 1997.
Under an executive order signed by President Trump on Friday, the US imposed sanctions on Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam as well as the city’s current and former police chiefs — freezing any US assets owned by those people and generally barring Americans from doing business with them.
The US lawmakers targeted by Beijing have been vocal critics of a national security law the Communist nation imposed on Hong Kong, which has maintained a semi-autonomous system separate from that of mainland China.
In June, China approved a contentious national security law that permits authorities to crack down on subversive and secessionist activity in Hong Kong.
The legislation was passed amid warnings and criticism both in Hong Kong and internationally that it would be used to curb opposition voices.
“The relevant actions of the US blatantly intervened in Hong Kong affairs, grossly interfered in China’s internal affairs, and seriously violated international law and the basic norms of international relations,” Zhao Lijian told reporters Monday.
“China urges the US to have a clear understanding of the situation, correct mistakes and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs and interfering in China’s internal affairs,” he continued.
Aside from Hong Kong matters, relations between the two countries had already been deteriorating amid the coronavirus pandemic.
China has faced considerable criticism in recent months over its handling of the contagion and its push to weaken Hong Kong’s autonomy.
As a result, Beijing has gone on the offense, engaging in a global smear campaign against Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and any other global critics.
Last month, China sanctioned Rubio, Cruz and Smith for accusing it of committing human rights abuses in its treatment of the Uighurs, a Muslim group being forcibly detained in concentration camps in Xinjiang province.
The three were banned from traveling to the Communist country.
With Post wires


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Martin Birch, Iron Maiden and Whitesnake producer, dies at 71

Martin Birch , the British music producer whose credits include albums by Iron Maiden , Deep Purple , Whitesnake and Black Sabbath , has died .
He was 71 .
News of his death was revealed by Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale on Twitter on Aug. 9 .
The cause of death is as yet unknown .
“ It is with a very heavy heart I ’ ve just had verified my very dear friend & producer Martin Birch has passed away… ” Coverdale tweeted .
“ Martin was a huge part of my life…helping me from the first time we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ & prayers to his family , friends & fans… ” The Surrey-born Birch began his career in the late 1960s as an engineer , working on recordings for Jeff Beck , Fleetwood Mac ( “ Kiln House ” “ Bare Trees ” ) , Deep Purple ( “ In Rock ” “ Machine Head ” ) and Rainbow ( “ Rising ” “ Long Live Rock ’ n Roll ” ) .
A craftsman of early recording technology , he ably captured the energy of live bands and loud amplification , helping create @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new power to the heavy rock of the 1970s as the psych-rock edges of the 1960s faded away .
Known for a midrange-forward approach that favored guitars , Birch , whose nickname was Headmaster , would become perhaps best known for his 11-year stint with Iron Maiden , serving as the producer and engineer of canonical records like “ Killers , ’ “ Number of The Beast , ” “ Piece Of Mind ” and “ Somewhere In Time.
” He followed up the success of those releases with work on Whitesnake ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” which included the original version of future single “ Here I Go Again.
” The song would be rerecorded in 1987 and hit No .
1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart .
Birch ’ s long-term collaborations extended beyond Maiden and Whitesnake to work with other metal acts like Rainbow and Deep Purple , the latter which led to Birch helming two Black Sabbath albums , “ Heaven and Hell ” and “ Mob Rules.
” Although he retired in 1992 , Birch was a key player in ushering in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1970s and into the ’ 80s when the genre dominated globally .

Martin Birch, the British music producer whose credits include albums by Iron Maiden, Deep Purple, Whitesnake and Black Sabbath, has died. He was 71.
News of his death was revealed by Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale on Twitter on Aug. 9. The cause of death is as yet unknown.
“It is with a very heavy heart I’ve just had verified my very dear friend & producer Martin Birch has passed away…” Coverdale tweeted. “Martin was a huge part of my life…helping me from the first time we met through until Slide It In…Mt thoughts & prayers to his family, friends & fans…”
The Surrey-born Birch began his career in the late 1960s as an engineer, working on recordings for Jeff Beck, Fleetwood Mac (“Kiln House” “Bare Trees”), Deep Purple (“In Rock” “Machine Head”) and Rainbow (“Rising” “Long Live Rock ’n Roll”). A craftsman of early recording technology, he ably captured the energy of live bands and loud amplification, helping create clear, focused recordings that brought a new power to the heavy rock of the 1970s as the psych-rock edges of the 1960s faded away.
Known for a midrange-forward approach that favored guitars, Birch, whose nickname was Headmaster, would become perhaps best known for his 11-year stint with Iron Maiden, serving as the producer and engineer of canonical records like “Killers,’ “Number of The Beast,” “Piece Of Mind” and “Somewhere In Time.” He followed up the success of those releases with work on Whitesnake’s 1982 album “Saints & Sinners,” which included the original version of future single “Here I Go Again.” The song would be rerecorded in 1987 and hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Birch’s long-term collaborations extended beyond Maiden and Whitesnake to work with other metal acts like Rainbow and Deep Purple, the latter which led to Birch helming two Black Sabbath albums, “Heaven and Hell” and “Mob Rules.”
Although he retired in 1992, Birch was a key player in ushering in a second wave of British Metal in the 1970s and into the ’80s when the genre dominated globally.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Newark Airport flight searched after passenger makes bomb threat

The Georgia teen who was briefly suspended after sharing an ...

The luggage from a United Airlines flight from Los Angeles was searched on the tarmac at Newark Airport on Sunday after a passenger made a bomb threat, according to reports.
Flight 2304 was met by police when it landed at about 4:30 p.m. at the New Jersey airport, the Lakewood Scoop reported.
The suspect was removed from the Boeing 787 and police placed all the passengers’ luggage on the tarmac, where canines sniffed it for possible explosives.
After the all-clear, the bags were released to the passengers, who were bused to the terminal, according to the news outlet.
“United flight 2304 from Los Angeles to Newark, NJ was met by emergency vehicles due to an onboard medical emergency. During the medical emergency on board, the passenger made a remark which created a potential security concern,” airline rep Kimberly Gibbs told The Post in a statement.
Previous 1 of 5 Next Advertisement A passenger's remark about a bomb on board a plane led to a United Airlines flight being greeted by emergency vehicles after it landed at Newark Airport. Courtesy of the Lakewood Scoop A passenger's remark about a bomb on board a plane led to a United Airlines flight being greeted by emergency vehicles after it landed at Newark Airport. Courtesy of the Lakewood Scoop Advertisement A passenger's remark about a bomb on board a plane led to a United Airlines flight being greeted by emergency vehicles after it landed at Newark Airport. Courtesy of the Lakewood Scoop Advertisement
“The flight landed safely and the customer was transported to a local hospital,” she added.
The type of medical emergency was not immediately available. No injuries were reported.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said the pilot requested that police meet the flight when it landed at Newark.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Georgia student who shared image of packed hallway says she’s getting threats

The Georgia teen who was briefly suspended after sharing an image of a crowded high school hallway in which many students were seen without masks said she has received threats – as the school has announced it is moving to online classes amid infections , according to reports .
North Paulding High School sophomore Hannah Watters was suspended for violating school policies last week after posting online the image of students packed in the hallway .
On Friday , she tweeted that the school had rescinded her suspension amid a public outcry .
Nine people – six students and three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the coronavirus , the school in Dallas , Georgia , informed parents on Saturday .
The school was closed as a result of the infections and the district announced it would move learning online for Monday and Tuesday .
Hannah told CNN that she and her family and friends have received threatening messages over the uproar .
One message said “ I know where this girl lives , ” Hannah told the network on Sunday .
Other missives included , “ We ’ re going to jump every girl named Hannah in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hannah is going to have a rough day at school on Monday , ” Hannah said .
The girl said she understands why some people are angry but insisted she shared the image because she felt it was the right thing to do .
“ I feel like a lot of teachers have my back because they know how dangerous it is going to school .
But I know that a lot of the kids that I go to school with , I ’ ve already gotten backlash for it , threats and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN .
“ I know I ’ m doing the right thing and it ’ s not going to stop me from continuing doing it .
But it is concerning , especially since it ’ s a lot of the people I go to school with , people I ’ ve known for years now , that are threatening me , ” she added .
Hannah said many people have told her they are getting tested for COVID-19 after the school was closed .
“ I ’ ve heard from many friends that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that their family members or their teacher has gotten tested because it hasn ’ t been safe over these few days , ” she told CNN .
“ We were only in school for three days and the fact that we already have nine cases at the end of that week is concerning because we don ’ t know how many people those nine people came in contact with , ” Hannah continued .
“ It ’ s going to spread like wildfire in that school , ” she said , adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would have addressed the issue as promptly as it did if she hadn ’ t posted the shot .
“ We could have just delayed opening like many other schools , ” she said .
“ They kind of sent us to school and used us as guinea pigs to see what would happen later on.
” Schools Superintendent Brian Otott told parents that they will find out Tuesday whether virtual learning will remain in effect longer .
“ I apologize for any inconvenience this schedule change may cause , ” he wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can all agree that the health and safety of our students and staff takes precedence over any other considerations at this time.
” The schools chief said the high school it will be “ thoroughly cleaned and disinfected ” on Monday and Tuesday .
“ The district will consult with the Department of Public Health to assess the environment and determine if there any additional close contacts for confirmed cases who have not already been identified , ” he wrote .

The Georgia teen who was briefly suspended after sharing an image of a crowded high school hallway in which many students were seen without masks said she has received threats — as the school has announced it is moving to online classes amid infections, according to reports.
North Paulding High School sophomore Hannah Watters was suspended for violating school policies last week after posting online the image of students packed in the hallway. On Friday, she tweeted that the school had rescinded her suspension amid a public outcry.
Nine people — six students and three faculty members — have since tested positive for the coronavirus, the school in Dallas, Georgia, informed parents on Saturday.
The school was closed as a result of the infections and the district announced it would move learning online for Monday and Tuesday.
Hannah told CNN that she and her family and friends have received threatening messages over the uproar.
One message said, “I know where this girl lives,” Hannah told the network Sunday.
Other missives included, “We’re going to jump every girl named Hannah in the tenth grade” and “Hannah is going to have a rough day at school on Monday,” Hannah said.
The girl said she understands why some people are angry but insisted she shared the image because she felt it was the right thing to do.
“I feel like a lot of teachers have my back because they know how dangerous it is going to school. But I know that a lot of the kids that I go to school with, I’ve already gotten backlash for it, threats and things like that,” Hannah told CNN.
“I know I’m doing the right thing and it’s not going to stop me from continuing doing it. But it is concerning, especially since it’s a lot of the people I go to school with, people I’ve known for years now, that are threatening me,” she added.
Hannah said many people have told her they are getting tested for COVID-19 after the school was closed.
“I’ve heard from many friends that they’ve been getting tests or that their family members or their teacher has gotten tested because it hasn’t been safe over these few days,” she told CNN.
“We were only in school for three days and the fact that we already have nine cases at the end of that week is concerning because we don’t know how many people those nine people came in contact with,” Hannah continued.
“It’s going to spread like wildfire in that school,” she said, adding that she doesn’t think her school would have addressed the issue as promptly as it did if she hadn’t posted the shot.
“We could have just delayed opening like many other schools,” she said. “They kind of sent us to school and used us as guinea pigs to see what would happen later on.”
Schools Superintendent Brian Otott told parents they will find out Tuesday whether virtual learning will remain in effect longer.
“I apologize for any inconvenience this schedule change may cause,” he wrote, 11Alive reported. “But hopefully we can all agree that the health and safety of our students and staff takes precedence over any other considerations at this time.”
The schools chief said the high school will be “thoroughly cleaned and disinfected” Monday and Tuesday.
“The district will consult with the Department of Public Health to assess the environment and determine if there any additional close contacts for confirmed cases who have not already been identified,” he wrote.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Almost 100K US kids infected with COVID-19 in last two weeks of July

Almost 100,000 American children tested positive for the coronavirus in the last two weeks of July — an alarming 40 percent rise , according to new data .
As officials continue to wrestle over the safest way to get kids back to school , a compilation of states ’ data shows a clear increase in youngsters getting infected — with at least 86 dying since May .
The true figures are likely higher , with some states not breaking down cases by age , and the only New York data available coming from the city , and not the rest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confusion , states also varied in their definition of children , with many listing it as under 14 — so excluding high schoolers — while Alabama bizarrely pushed it as high as 24 .
In total , 338,982 children have been reported as having COVID-19 , which is 8.8 % of overall cases , according to the report compiled by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children ’ s Hospital Association .
But the most worrying trend is the 97,078 new child cases reported over the last two weeks of July — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
In 25 states , at least one in 10 new confirmed infections was a child , with six states each having more than 15,000 child cases .
The alarming trend was blamed on the current epicenters in the south and west of the nation , which saw seven out of 10 of the new cases , the report states .
The Big Apple and New Jersey — the original hotspots — both reported less than 3 % of cases being children .

Almost 100,000 American children tested positive for the coronavirus in the last two weeks of July — an alarming 40 percent rise, according to new data.
As officials continue to wrestle over the safest way to get kids back to school, a compilation of states’ data shows a clear increase in youngsters getting infected — with at least 86 dying since May.
The true figures are likely higher, with some states not breaking down cases by age, and the only New York data available coming from the city, and not the rest of the Empire State.
Confounding the confusion, states also varied in their definition of children, with many listing it as under 14 — so excluding high schoolers — while Alabama bizarrely pushed it as high as 24.
In total, 338,982 children have been reported as having COVID-19, which is 8.8% of overall cases, according to the report compiled by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association.
But the most worrying trend is the 97,078 new child cases reported over the last two weeks of July — a 40% increase, the report said.
Previous 1 of 3 Next Advertisement A child wears a face mask while riding a scooter in Manhattan. Getty Images A boy plays on a swing at a playground in New York. Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images Advertisement
In 25 states, at least one in 10 new confirmed infections was a child, with six states each having more than 15,000 child cases.
The alarming trend was blamed on the current epicenters in the South and West, which saw seven out of 10 of the new cases, the report states.
The Big Apple and New Jersey — the original hot spots — both reported less than 3% of cases being children.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Backdoor beetle: Insect survives being eaten by frog

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This bug made “The Great Escape.” An aquatic beetle was eaten by a frog and successfully emerged from the amphibian’s anus unscathed. Watch video of the un-beetle-able experiment conducted at Kobe University in Japan. Biologist Shinji Sugiura guesses that the beetle uses its legs to promote excretion inside the frog’s digestive tract.
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newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Looters, vandals sweep through Chicago’s Magnificent Mile after police shooting

A Texas mother-of-three was reportedly found dead over the weekend ...

About 100 people were arrested in Chicago and 13 police officers were injured during a night of looting and vandalism — hours after cops shot a young man who had fired at them, according to reports.
The mayhem began about 2:30 p.m. Sunday, when cops responded to reports of a man with a gun in the Englewood neighborhood on the South Side and located a person who fit the description near Moran Park, the Chicago Tribune reported.
While running away from police, the suspect turned around and fired at them. The officers returned fire, wounding the gunman, who was transported to University of Chicago Hospital in unknown condition, according to the newspaper.
Police Superintendent David Brown said during a press briefing Monday that the looting was sparked as a result of misinformation that cops had shot and wounded a child, WGN reported.
The 20-year-old man who was shot is expected to survive, said Brown, who added that the suspect had several previous arrests including on charges of burglary, child endangerment and domestic battery, according to the station.
No cops were injured during the incident and a gun was recovered at the scene.
Brown said that after the shooting, a crowd began gathering on the South Side and tempers flared in response to the incident. Police deployed 400 officers to the scene when they became aware of social media posts encouraging looting, he added.
Brown and Mayor Lori Lightfoot emphasized that the looting was not a part of an organized protest.
“This was not an organized protest,” Brown said. “This was an incident of pure criminality.”
Alderman Brian Hopkins told WGN he saw people driving up in vehicles, smashing windows of stores on Michigan Avenue, grabbing merchandise and driving away.
Police and witnesses later said a crowd of about 30 people faced off against cops near 56th and Aberdeen streets.
The looters and vandals rushed through the city’s Magnificent Mile and other parts of downtown, where they were seen carrying bags full of stolen goods, the Tribune reported.
They repeatedly tried to smash the windows of the Omega watch store at Delaware Place and Michigan Avenue.
“The watch store,” one cop said. “They’re gonna get it eventually.”
Some people were seen running out of a damaged PNC Bank at Huron and State streets, while nearby stores also were cleaned out by looters.
Previous 1 of 6 Next Advertisement Police officers detain a man who was found inside a Best Buy store. Scott Olson/Getty Images Scott Olson/Getty Images Advertisement Scott Olson/Getty Images Getty Images Advertisement
One fleeing woman carrying shopping bags fell on the sidewalk as an officer pursued her, and another woman appeared to have been pepper-sprayed.
“We do have an officer that was maced by someone in the crowd. We do have an officer that sustained a shoulder injury from the incident with the crowd,” Deputy Police Chief Delonda Tally said, Fox 32 reported.
“One of our vehicles, the windows were shattered by a brick,” Tally added.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Texas mother-of-three found dead, ex-husband charged with kidnapping

A Texas mother-of-three was reportedly found dead over the weekend after her ex-husband allegedly shoved her into an SUV .
@ @ @ @ @ was allegedly kidnapped Thursday by Richard Ford , 40 , and her body was found @ @ @ @ @ Hidalgo County one day later , KRGV reported .
Ford was arrested late Thursday after @ @ @ @ @ his wife into the vehicle .
On Saturday , he was charged with aggravated kidnapping @ @ @ @ @ of protection against Ford .
She accused her ex of violating the order on June @ @ @ @ @ The mother left behind three children , ages 6 , 10 and 12 , according @ @ @ @ @ up to benefit the kids .
Banda “ coached her daughters ’ soccer team , @ @ @ @ @ was always willing to help out those less fortunate , ” the page said .

A Texas mother of three was reportedly found dead over the weekend after her ex-husband allegedly shoved her into an SUV.
Melissa Banda, 37, was allegedly kidnapped Thursday by Richard Ford, 40, and her body was found in a rural area of Hidalgo County one day later, KRGV reported.
Ford was arrested late Thursday after witnesses reported seeing him force his wife into the vehicle. On Saturday, he was charged with aggravated kidnapping.
Banda reportedly had an order of protection against Ford. She accused her ex of violating the order on June 30 by calling her.
The mother left behind three children, ages 6, 10 and 12, according to a GoFundMe page set up to benefit the kids.
Banda “coached her daughters’ soccer team, worked full time, and was always willing to help out those less fortunate,” the page said.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Nets ‘truly believe’ they can beat Raptors with playoff matchup set

The Nets came out and floored the Clippers with the ...

With the Nets having gone 6-2 under interim coach Jacque Vaughn — with wins over the NBA’s top three title contenders — their confidence is sky-high.
High enough to think they can beat the defending champs, after Sunday’s win over the Clippers clinched the seventh seed in the East and a first-round date versus the Raptors.
“We know they’re a really good team. Obviously they’re playing good basketball, they move the ball really well, they’re a great defensive team, as well,” Caris LeVert said. “But for us, we feel like it’s about us. If we move the ball well, if we play good defense, if we’re locked into the game plan, we can win that series. We truly believe that. So we’re gonna go into that playoff matchup all the way locked in.”
LeVert had 27 points and a career-high 13 assists to lead the Nets to a 129-120 victory over the Clippers. Tyler Johnson added a season-high 21 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter as the Clippers tried to double team LeVert.
“As far as going into Toronto, you know what to expect. Then again, there’s no homecourt advantage. You’re playing a basketball team in the same spot for however many games it takes to advance,” Johnson said. “For us, it’s continue to play our style of basketball. At this point, we understand that, if we do that, we’re capable of beating anybody, and we showed it.”
The Nets have shown it by beating the Lakers in Los Angeles in their final game before the pandemic shutdown, Vaughn’s second after replacing Kenny Atkinson.
The Nets have been even better since, knocking off the NBA-leading Bucks on Tuesday despite being woefully shorthanded. Then they clinched seventh in the East by beating the Clippers. It was a masterclass by Vaughn, with Clippers assistant Ty Lue — expected to be among his competition for the permanent Nets job — on the opposing bench.
“To clinch seventh was big for us, obviously. We wanted to play whoever was going to be in that second spot, obviously it’s Toronto. We feel confident,” Garrett Temple said. “We’re confident. If we play the right way, if we play like we’ve been playing the last 2 or 3 games, share the ball, get stops, even though they turn people over, if we’re able to take care of it and do what we’ve been doing, we have a chance to win some games.”
“We’re not overlooking the next couple games, but we know who we’re going to play and we have a lot of time to actually get ready. JV and his crew are going to do what they do to get us ready for that series.”
The job Vaughn has done impressed his former mentor, Clippers coach Doc Rivers.
“I think he’s done a terrific job,” Rivers gushed. “Listen, I coached Jacque in Orlando. He played with me for an entire year, so I’m a big fan of his. He was one of those players — similar to Ty Lue and Sam [Cassell] — that you knew when they retired that they would be coaches. So I hope he gets a good shot here.”


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Sterling Shepard, Leonard Williams are suddenly Giants’ elder statesmen

DeAndre Baker ’ s Giants and NFL career was intercepted by the ...

An entire locker room knew him as “Young Shep” just a few months ago.
Now? “Dean Shep” is a more appropriate nickname for Sterling Shepard … if Leonard Williams will allow it.
This NFL offseason marked a thorough passing of the old guard in New York, leaving Shepard — entering his fifth season at age 27 — as not only the longest-tenured member of the Giants, but also one of the few remaining fixtures across this premium market. No player on the Giants or Jets joined their respective teams prior to 2016.
“I might have to shake the ‘Young Shep’ off,” Shepard joked. “I did not know that about the whole New York with the Jets and everything. [It means] just set a good example for the young guys, and kind of teach them about some of the different rivalries that we have and how important those games are to the New York Giants as an organization.”
The overhaul was bookended by the retirements of a pair of two-time Super Bowl champions from the Giants: Eli Manning in January and Zak DeOssie on Friday. In between, the Jets didn’t re-sign Bilal Powell and cut Brian Winters and Quincy Enunwa, leaving Jordan Jenkins and Steve McLendon as the deans in their locker room.
Then there is Williams, who arrived as the Jets’ top draft pick in 2015 and was traded to the Giants last year. If changing uniforms is negligible, then all his former teammates left the torch to him on the way out the door.
“It’s crazy to think, first of all, that I’ve been here the longest,” Williams said. “I’m only 26 years old. That makes me feel really old.”
Williams was denied a chance to leave town via free agency this offseason, when the Giants used their franchise tag to keep him on a one-year contract. A solid run-stuffer who was criticized with the Jets for not living up to elite draft status, Williams enters this season under intense pressure to make good on his Giants-high $16.1 million salary.
Does he ever wonder what it is like to be free of the New York scrutiny?
“No, I love it,” Williams said. “It’s a great media market, it’s a great city, great teams in this area historically. It’s great to be in a city like this — and you can take advantage of it, if you can.”
If, indeed. Take the words from DeOssie’s retirement statement, as he begins a career in Private Wealth Management at Goldman Sachs, reunited with former Giants teammate Justin Tuck.
“The big wins on big stages, the tiny victories behind the scenes, and the challenges that have taught me so much,” DeOssie wrote. “Eli said it best: Once a Giant, always a Giant, only a Giant. What an honor.
“To the best fans in the league, thank you for your fierce loyalty and passionate support, and for always demanding the best. This is New York — you deserve the best.”
Shepard is the only player left on either roster to play in a Giants or Jets playoff game — there’s only been one of those in the eight NFL seasons.
The last two seasons he was part of the same receiving corps as veteran Russell Shepard, who was nicknamed “Old Shep” for the sake of distinction. But Sterling’s ascension is in overdrive and could lead to him replacing one of six vacated co-captain spots.
Giants coaches held Kahoot! trivia challenges during offseason Zoom meetings to help familiarize players with the 95-year history of the Giants.
“We’ve already begun to teach some of these newcomers and guys that really don’t know much about the history of the Giants, a way to get them caught up,” Shepard said. “I think it’s very important to know the history. You have to know what the guys before you have done and how they played football, and to continue to play that way because that’s what this organization was built on, and that’s what it’s used to.”
The Giants are expected to sign two undrafted rookies, if they pass the COVID-19 testing entry protocol for training camp: Offensive tackle Jackson Dennis (Holy Cross) and wide receiver Cody White (Michigan State). White was waived by the Chiefs and Dennis was waived by the Cardinals. Both players passed physicals Saturday, per the NFL transaction wire, but two roster spots will need to be freed.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Yankees quick to defend Gary Sanchez over dooming wild pitch

The box score blames Zack Britton .
He accepts the fault , too .
But Gary Sanchez can rarely sidestep all responsibility on a wild pitch .
He can ’ t escape his reputation .
With a tie score , runner on first and one out in the bottom of the ninth inning of Sunday ’ s game against the Rays , Britton threw a blockable sinker in the dirt short of Sanchez , which bounced past the catcher and allowed Brandon Lowe to advance to second .
Three batters later , Lowe scored the winning run .
When asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defended the catcher , who has twice led the American League in passed balls .
“ Sinker in the dirt .
Because it ’ s Gary it ’ s gon na be a big deal , ” Boone said .
“ But a sinker in the dirt to the other side is usually gon na end up at the backstop.
” Britton , who hadn ’ t allowed a run in his first five appearances of the season , later got crossed up again with Sanchez .
The lefty said he wasn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which nearly allowed the winning run to score from third , but Britton said he is clear about the wild pitch .
“ That ’ s a tough pitch for anybody to block , ” Britton said .
“ Obviously that ’ s a pitch I use to try to get a swing if I feel like the hitter is gon na be aggressive .
That one was too short .
That ’ s a tough pitch to block .
Not many guys are gon na block that ball .
That ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in that situation so the guy doesn ’ t advance.
” Seeing anyone on base against Britton ( 0-1 ) was unusual .
In his previous four outings , Britton hadn ’ t allowed a baserunner .
In two-thirds of an inning Sunday , he gave up two hits and one walk .
“ I just wasn ’ t very sharp with really anything from the get go , ” Britton said .
“ Nothing specifically , you go through parts of a season where you ’ re not as sharp as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adjustments on the fly and I wasn ’ t able to make adjustments to get us out of that inning .
… That was my time to come in and get a couple innings for our guys and it ’ s frustrating to come in there and not be sharp.
” Aroldis Chapman threw a bullpen session Saturday in Scranton and could face live hitters as soon as Tuesday .
… DJ LeMahieu went 2-for-4 , raising his batting average to .397 .
… Aaron Judge went 0-for-5 , leaving five men on @ @

The box score blames Zack Britton. He accepts the fault, too. But Gary Sanchez can rarely sidestep all responsibility on a wild pitch. He can’t escape his reputation.
With a tie score, runner on first and one out in the bottom of the ninth inning of Sunday’s game against the Rays, Britton threw a blockable sinker in the dirt short of Sanchez, which bounced past the catcher and allowed Brandon Lowe to advance to second. Three batters later, Lowe scored the winning run.
When asked about the pitch, Aaron Boone quickly defended the catcher, who has twice led the American League in passed balls.
“Sinker in the dirt. Because it’s Gary it’s gonna be a big deal,” Boone said. “But a sinker in the dirt to the other side is usually gonna end up at the backstop.”
Britton, who hadn’t allowed a run in his first five appearances of the season, later got crossed up again with Sanchez. The lefty said he wasn’t sure what happened on a slider which nearly allowed the winning run to score from third, but Britton said he is clear about the wild pitch.
“That’s a tough pitch for anybody to block,” Britton said. “Obviously that’s a pitch I use to try to get a swing if I feel like the hitter is gonna be aggressive. That one was too short. That’s a tough pitch to block. Not many guys are gonna block that ball. That’s on me to make a better pitch in that situation so the guy doesn’t advance.”
Seeing anyone on base against Britton (0-1) was unusual. In his previous four outings, Britton hadn’t allowed a baserunner. In two-thirds of an inning Sunday, he gave up two hits and one walk.
“I just wasn’t very sharp with really anything from the get go,” Britton said. “Nothing specifically, you go through parts of a season where you’re not as sharp as the previous one. You have to make adjustments on the fly and I wasn’t able to make adjustments to get us out of that inning. … That was my time to come in and get a couple innings for our guys and it’s frustrating to come in there and not be sharp.”
Aroldis Chapman threw a bullpen session Saturday in Scranton and could face live hitters as soon as Tuesday. … DJ LeMahieu went 2-for-4, raising his batting average to .397. … Aaron Judge went 0-for-5, leaving five men on base.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Bryson DeChambeau feels closer to first major win after strong PGA Championship

SAN FRANCISCO — It was a shot Collin Morikawa will ...

SAN FRANCISCO — Bryson DeChambeau made the best run of his career at a major championship, but still fell short despite shooting a final-round 66 to finish 10-under for the week and in a tie for fourth.
“There [were] a few moments where I kind of got a spur of momentum,’’ he said. “It was bunched and somebody had to pull away.’’
Collin Morikawa was that somebody.
“I played great golf this whole week, and finally was able to finish in the top 10, top five in a major, and that’s an awesome accolade,’’ DeChambeau said. “The next step is to win. I feel like my game is good enough. I’m just proud of the way I handled myself, and that I was able to still keep executing when times got tough, and kept my head up high.’’
DeChambeau called his performance this week “super validating’’ of the changes he’s made to his body and swing.
“[I’m] very excited for the future for me,’’ he said. “My driving I think is only going to get stronger and farther, golf-course-dependent, obviously. I hope in due time there’s going to be an advantage that’s out there. Hopefully it gives me a really distinct advantage that helps me win a lot out here.”
Phil Mickelson closed out the PGA Championship with a final-round 73 to finish 4-over for the tournament.
But the talk about Mickelson since Saturday has been about his performance as a guest commentator in the CBS-TV booth after his third round, which had Twitter buzzing with his expert analysis and zingers.
Mickelson downplayed his potential stardom in the broadcasting world should he opt for that after his playing career, saying, “For somebody like myself that’s never done that, having a guy like Jim Nantz kind of set things up and kind of stage what to talk about made it easy, because it’s not like I prepared for anything.
“He just sets things up well, and then obviously to have a wonderful target like Nick [Faldo], that made it nice, too.’’
Mickelson had some fun with Faldo in the booth with a few good-natured barbs.
“I’ve always had a good rapport with Nick Faldo going back to when I played with him as an amateur in the Masters and he was really kind to me, and I’ve always enjoyed his kind of wit and British humor,’’ Mickelson said. “So, we’ve always had some good banter at the [Masters] champions’ dinners. It was just an easy environment to spend an hour or so.’’
Based on their respective finishes, Matthew Wolff, who tied for fourth, and Cameron Champ, who tied for 10th, qualified for the U.S. Open at Winged Foot. … In his first tournament since taking over the No. 1 ranking, Justin Thomas finished 1-under for the week after shooting 70 Sunday. … Jordan Spieth, after shooting 76 on Saturday, rallied for a 67 on Sunday. He’ll have to wait until 2021 to try again to win a PGA and complete the career grand slam.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--Fire rips through Rachael Ray’s home in upstate New York

The college football season this fall is in serious jeopardy ... .

A home belonging to celebrity cook Rachael Ray was reportedly on fire in upstate New York on Sunday night.
Fire crews were battling flames at the home in Lake Luzerne, as the Warren County Sheriff’s Office told ABC10 the residence belonged to the television personality.
Images showed the flames shooting through the roof of the home.
A spokesperson for Ray said she was not injured in the blaze.
“Rachael, her husband and their dog Bella are safe,” said the rep, Charlie Dougiello.
“The house is unfortunately damaged and we don’t yet know to what extent.”
Ray has been producing live cooking segments for her daytime talk show during the pandemic from the upstate home.


newyorkpost--2020-08-10--College football 2020 fall season in danger of being cancelled

MACtion will be missing this fall .
The Mid-American Conference became ...

The college football season this fall is in serious jeopardy.
Commissioners of the Power 5 conference met Sunday night to discuss if the fall season could be played as health concerns grow amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to the Associated Press.
Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby told the AP that no decisions have been made, but said the outlook has not improved.
“Are we in a better place today than two weeks, ago?” he said. “No, we’re not.”
Bowlsby pointed to the data around “myocarditis” as a growing reason for concern.
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart that has occurred in a number COVID-19 patients. It could have long-term complications for young, healthy people, should they contract the virus.
The Power 5 commissioner powwow comes after presidents from the Big Ten met on Saturday. The Big Ten is moving toward postponing their fall season and wanted to see if the ACC, SEC, Big 12 and Pac-12 would join them, according to reports. Notre Dame also would likely be included in this as the Fighting Irish were set to join the ACC for this season.
“I’ve been around our guys and they think it’s safe and they want to try and play,” Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said. “If we change course, we better be able to articulate the reason for doing so to our student-athletes. They are going to want to know why.”
The Big Ten presidents, who were expected to meet again Sunday night, are strongly leaning toward canceling the fall season and are close to making a decision, but not ready to make an announcement, according to Yahoo Sports. The league remains unsure what other conferences could join them once they make an official decision. The Big Ten season is scheduled to start Labor Day weekend.
“It’s gotten to a critical stage,” one conference commissioner told Sports Illustrated. “I think all of us will be meeting with our boards in the coming days. We have work to do that is no fun.”
The final decision lies with the university presidents from the larger conferences.
The shift toward punting on the season comes after the Big Ten, which includes Rutgers, announced Friday that fall sports would remain in the “first two days of the acclimatization period.” For football that meant workouts would only include helmets and no pads in light of health concerns. Friday also saw the MAC become the FBS conference to cancel its fall season.
Pac-12 presidents and chancellors are expected to meet Tuesday and ACC leaders have moved their meeting up to Monday, according to ESPN. Leaders of other FBS conferences are also reportedly scheduled to meet this week.
Louisiana Tech announced Sunday that it was pausing its football practice after five players tested positive for coronavirus and 13 more falling under contact-tracing measures. Many of the premier college football programs — including LSU and Clemson — saw dozens of players test positive for COVID-19 upon returning to campus and the virus remains prevalent throughout much of the country.
“I don’t even see how it’s real,” one Power 5 coach told The Post earlier this summer. “You are going to have 100-plus people in the locker room in close proximity. There is no way around that. If they are saying you can’t do that, I don’t see how we can operate when we are going to be on planes and buses with large groups of people and in hotels with other people.”
Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence joined a number of players in the #WeWantToPlay movement on social media. He posted a joint statement early Monday representing players in the Power 5 conferences asking for “universal” health and safety protocols, the option for players to opt out with their eligibility guaranteed whether a player chooses to play or not and the eventual formation of college football players association.
The NBA, NHL, MLS and WNBA have had success by creating “bubble” environments for their players, which simply would not work for college football. Their model — if a season were to be played — would be similar to MLB and what the NFL is proposing. Baseball, which is working with around 30-man rosters plus staff has already seen coronavirus outbreaks on the Marlins and Cardinals that have led to the postponement of games.
— with AP


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--New Jersey police shut down ‘pop-up’ house party with 300 attendees

A massive “ pop-up ” party promoted on Instagram was shut down by police in New Jersey on Sunday evening — less than a week after the state limited indoor gatherings because of the increase of coronavirus transmission rates .
Three hundred carefree revelers — most without masks — were spotted outside a home on Wilson Drive in Howell Township for what promoters called the “ Real Big Drip 5 ” party .
Most of the house party attendees were compliant when police arrived with K-9 units , while others were angry because they paid for the event , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The organizers advertised the party as being held in a “ PRIVATE Location in CENTRAL Jersey , ” on Instagram , according to NJ.com .
“ Advance Tixs…Females $ 30.00 Male $ 40.00 , ” the post read .
Several patrol units remained in the area to monitor surrounding streets due to reports of “ stragglers urinating on people ’ s property and vehicles.
” Police requested help from Wall , Brick , Jackson , Freehold , Monmouth and Ocean County Sheriffs , as well as State Police .
The host of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those who attended the were not locals .
There have been at least 184,773 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in New Jersey , with 14,021 deaths .

A massive “pop-up” party promoted on Instagram was shut down by police in New Jersey on Sunday evening — less than a week after the state limited indoor gatherings because of the increase of coronavirus transmission rates.
Three hundred carefree revelers — most without masks — were spotted outside a home on Wilson Drive in Howell Township for what promoters called the “Real Big Drip 5” party.
Most of the house party attendees were compliant when police arrived with K-9 units, while others were angry because they paid for the event, according to the department’s Facebook page.
The organizers advertised the party as being held in a “PRIVATE Location in CENTRAL Jersey” on Instagram, according to NJ.com. “Advance Tixs…Females $30.00 Male $40.00,” the post read.
Several patrol units remained in the area to monitor surrounding streets due to reports of “stragglers urinating on people’s property and vehicles.”
Police requested help from police agencies in Wall, Brick, Jackson, Freehold, Monmouth and Ocean counties, as well as State Police.
The host of the party was arrested. A majority of those who attended were not locals.
There have been at least 184,773 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in New Jersey, with 14,021 deaths.


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--Nets clinch 7th seed with impressive win over Clippers

The Nets came out and floored the Clippers with the best offensive quarter in the NBA all season .
And they held off Kawhi Leonard & Co. the rest of the way with arguably their most impressive win of the restart .
The Nets essentially led wire-to-wire for a 129-120 win against a Clippers team many feel will win the championship .
They clinched the seventh seed in the East , and rode a first-quarter blitzkrieg to do it at ESPN ’ s Wide World of Sports .
“ Really showing a competitive spirit about us which is great to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are gelling together , appreciate each other and are really playing extremely hard .
It ’ s indeed fun to be a part of , ” said Jacque Vaughn , who improved to 6-2 as the Nets ’ interim head coach .
“ Just belief in ourselves , belief in the work that we put in .
We believe we can play with anybody , regardless of what anybody says , regardless .
We know how close we are as a group , ” Caris LeVert said .
“ Everybody knows how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win.
” Behind LeVert — who had 27 points and a career-high 13 assists playing the point — the Nets ran out to a quick 26-10 edge right out of the gate .
They led 45-24 after a first quarter that saw them shoot a white-hot 85.7 percent — the best regulation quarter by any team all this season , according to Elias Sports Bureau .
“ Offensively in that opening quarter was as good as we can play : Pushing the pace , getting to spots , sharing the ball , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Joe [ Harris ] or Caris don ’ t miss a shot , but we did a great job of getting those guys the ball and ’ Vert did a great job of getting to his shots .
He ’ s really taken that leading guard role .
… Offensively that first quarter was beautiful to see , beautiful to be a part of.
” The Nets only briefly saw the Clippers pull even — at 74-all , and again 77-all in the third — and never trailed the rest of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Leonard had a game-high 39 points for the Clippers .
But LeVert , Harris and Jarrett Allen all starred after having been doubtful at mid-day .
Harris fouled out with 25 points and hit 5 of 8 from deep , while Allen had 16 points and 16 boards .
“ [ You love ] matchups like that .
It helps you grow , ” LeVert said of facing Leonard .
“ It ’ s a challenge .
That ’ s what I came down here for , to be challenged.
” The Nets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Clippers responded with nine unanswered points , LeVert steadied the Nets .
It was a recurring theme .
The Nets shot 18 of 21 in the first quarter , and didn ’ t cool off too much in the second .
Their 67.4 percent at the break tied their best-shooting half of the season , and their 74 points marked their second-highest scoring first half .
The Nets led 74-63 at the half , but saw the Clippers come out of the locker room with a run .
Leonard opened the second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pull the Clippers even at 74-all .
But Vaughn called a timeout , drew up a nice play and Temple hit a 3-pointer to staunch the bleeding .
The Clippers knotted it on a Reggie Jackson 3 , but the Nets retook the momentum with seven unanswered points .
Another Temple 3-pointer put Brooklyn back ahead 84-77 .
The Clippers started to double LeVert and cut the lead to 98-94 after three .
But consecutive 3s by Johnson padded the lead back to 104-94 .
LeVert ’ s 11th assist — a no-look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put the Nets up 118-107 with 3 ½ minutes left , and they held on .
The Nets have beaten the Lakers , Bucks and Clippers on Vaughn ’ s watch .
“ JV has done a great job .
You can ’ t say enough about what he ’ s been able to do , especially with the situation that we ’ re in right now , missing seven of our players , ” Temple said .
“ His poise his demeanor has really rubbed off on us and we love playing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And I ’ m happy that we ’ re able to get some wins and we ’ re able to play the way we ’ re playing under him .
”

The Nets came out and floored the Clippers with the best offensive quarter in the NBA all season. And they held off Kawhi Leonard & Co. the rest of the way with arguably their most impressive win of the restart.
The Nets essentially led wire-to-wire for a 129-120 win against a Clippers team many feel will win the championship. They clinched the seventh seed in the East, and rode a first-quarter blitzkrieg to do it at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports.
“Really showing a competitive spirit about us which is great to see, a group of guys that are gelling together, appreciate each other and are really playing extremely hard. It’s indeed fun to be a part of,” said Jacque Vaughn, who improved to 6-2 as the Nets’ interim head coach.
“Just belief in ourselves, belief in the work that we put in. We believe we can play with anybody, regardless of what anybody says, regardless. We know how close we are as a group,” Caris LeVert said. “Everybody knows how to play the game and everybody wants to win.”
Behind LeVert — who had 27 points and a career-high 13 assists playing the point — the Nets ran out to a quick 26-10 edge right out of the gate. They led 45-24 after a first quarter that saw them shoot a white-hot 85.7 percent — the best regulation quarter by any team all this season, according to Elias Sports Bureau.
“Offensively in that opening quarter was as good as we can play: Pushing the pace, getting to spots, sharing the ball,” Garrett Temple said. “It helps when Joe [Harris] or Caris don’t miss a shot, but we did a great job of getting those guys the ball and ’Vert did a great job of getting to his shots. He’s really taken that leading guard role. … Offensively that first quarter was beautiful to see, beautiful to be a part of.”
The Nets only briefly saw the Clippers pull even — at 74-all, and again 77-all in the third — and never trailed the rest of the night.
As Paul George rested, Leonard had a game-high 39 points for the Clippers. But LeVert, Harris and Jarrett Allen all starred after having been doubtful at mid-day. Harris fouled out with 25 points and hit 5 of 8 from deep, while Allen had 16 points and 16 boards.
“[You love] matchups like that. It helps you grow,” LeVert said of facing Leonard. “It’s a challenge. That’s what I came down here for, to be challenged.”
The Nets jumped ahead 26-10, and even after the Clippers responded with nine unanswered points, LeVert steadied the Nets. It was a recurring theme.
The Nets shot 18 of 21 in the first quarter, and didn’t cool off too much in the second. Their 67.4 percent at the break tied their best-shooting half of the season, and their 74 points marked their second-highest scoring first half.
The Nets led 74-63 at the half, but saw the Clippers come out of the locker room with a run. Leonard opened the second half on a personal 11-0 spurt to pull the Clippers even at 74-all.
But Vaughn called a timeout, drew up a nice play and Temple hit a 3-pointer to staunch the bleeding. The Clippers knotted it on a Reggie Jackson 3, but the Nets retook the momentum with seven unanswered points. Another Temple 3-pointer put Brooklyn back ahead 84-77.
The Clippers started to double LeVert and cut the lead to 98-94 after three. But consecutive 3s by Johnson padded the lead back to 104-94. LeVert’s 11th assist — a no-look pass to Allen for a dunk — put the Nets up 118-107 with 3 ½ minutes left, and they held on.
The Nets have beaten the Lakers, Bucks and Clippers on Vaughn’s watch.
“JV has done a great job. You can’t say enough about what he’s been able to do, especially with the situation that we’re in right now, missing seven of our players,” Temple said. “His poise his demeanor has really rubbed off on us and we love playing for him, we really love it. And I’m happy that we’re able to get some wins and we’re able to play the way we’re playing under him.”


newyorkpost--2020-08-09--3-year-girl among victims killed in Beirut blast

An adorable three-year-old girl was revealed on Saturday to be among at least 160 people killed in the massive Beirut blast .
Little Alexandra Naggear was thrown from her mother Tracy ’ s arms inside their high-rise flat when the second blast occurred last Tuesday night at the port building in Lebanon ’ s capital , The Daily Mail reported .
The youngster and her family were watching the initial blaze at the site housing 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate when the explosion rocked the city .
“ They were on the balcony just watching like most people , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 60 , said .
“ My daughter said she saw a huge grey object falling from the sky and she started screaming for them to run inside.
” Tracy scooped up her daughter and retreated away from the window .
“ But the pressure of the explosion was so intense and she couldn ’ t keep hold of her and they flew inside the house , ” Awwad said .
The parents dug Alexandra out of the rubble and drove her on a motorbike to a hospital .
But she died three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul , 36 , reportedly blasted the government in a TV interview and said his daughter is “ not a martyr , she is a victim.
” The health ministry on Saturday said 21 people were still missing following the explosion that killed at least 160 people and injured more than 6,000 .
Violent anti-government protests have swept across Beirut as many Lebanese citizens have blamed leaders ’ incompetence for the deadly explosion .

An adorable three-year-old girl was revealed on Saturday to be among at least 160 people killed in the massive Beirut blast.
Little Alexandra Naggear was thrown from her mother Tracy’s arms inside their high-rise flat when the second blast occurred last Tuesday night at the port building in Lebanon’s capital, The Daily Mail reported.
The youngster and her family were watching the initial blaze at the site housing 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate when the explosion rocked the city.
“They were on the balcony just watching like most people,” Alexandra’s grandfather, Michel Awwad, 60, said.
“My daughter said she saw a huge grey object falling from the sky and she started screaming for them to run inside.”
Tracy scooped up her daughter and retreated away from the window.
“But the pressure of the explosion was so intense and she couldn’t keep hold of her and they flew inside the house,” Awwad said.
The parents dug Alexandra out of the rubble and drove her on a motorbike to a hospital. But she died three days later.
Alexandra’s father Paul, 36, reportedly blasted the government in a TV interview and said his daughter is “not a martyr, she is a victim.”
The health ministry on Saturday said 21 people were still missing following the explosion that killed at least 160 people and injured more than 6,000.
Violent anti-government protests have swept across Beirut as many Lebanese citizens have blamed leaders’ incompetence for the deadly explosion.