newyorkpost--2020-10-17--Loophole in lockdown of COVID-19 ‘hot zones’ may put others as risk: NYC teachers

Gov .
Andrew Cuomo threatened to yank state funding for New ...

Gov. Cuomo left a big loophole in his lockdown of COVID-19 “hot zones” by letting children and adults who live in the closed communities attend or work in schools elsewhere, worried teachers say.
“You’re just as contagious whether you are going to school in that zone or outside that zone,” Queens teacher Rob Roszkowski told The Post.
Thousands of teens attend high schools across the city, taking mass transit. Students with disabilities are bused to District 75 schools or programs outside their neighborhoods — and often have difficulties wearing masks.
The state-designated “Red Zones” are home to 2.8% of the state population, but had 11.9% of all positive test results reported to the state last week, officials said. They include Far Rockaway, Kew Gardens, Borough Park, Gravesend, Midwood, Bensonhurst and Sheepshead Bay.
Cuomo has threatened to withhold state funding for any schools caught operating in the red zones, after reports that Orthodox yeshivas were still packed with students.
Jonah Bruno, a state Department of Health spokesman, confirmed that students and adults in the lockdown zones — where schools must switch to fully remote instruction — can attend or work in schools elsewhere. “DOH has not imposed any movement restrictions on people living in red zones. All people should continue following COVID prevention measures, including wearing a mask and social distancing,” he said.
Bruno refused to explain the stance or address the risks.
Asked about the policy at a recent press conference, Mayor de Blasio said the city will monitor whether it causes COVID-19 to spread.
“We’re obviously going to watch carefully to see if people moving around from community to community is having an effect, but to date, we do not see that happening on a wide scale,” he said.
Dr. Jay Varma, the mayor’s senior advisor for public health, added, “It becomes a question … whether or not we need to restrict the movement of people in or out of those areas, and that presents really very important human rights considerations.”
Even at the height of the outbreak, he said, the state did not restrict movement of people within New York.
But movement from outside the state is another matter. The state currently mandates that everyone returning from 38 “restricted states” — ones with widespread COVID-19 transmission — fill out a travel form and quarantine for 14 days.
Staff working in all city DOE schools must fill out a daily health screening which asks, among other questions, whether they recently traveled to any of those states.
The survey does not ask whether they came from one of NYC’s red, orange or yellow zones.
Queens teacher Roszkowski blasted the city’s “wait-and-see” policy.
“The lives of students and staff have to matter more than the mayor’s social experiment,” he said. “As a dedicated teacher, I am appalled that the safety of my students, as well as myself and my colleagues, has continually been jeopardized by this approach.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-17--Carranza’s deputy calls decisions on school admissions criteria ‘political’

Testing will be given only if it 's possible to do ...

A top deputy of schools Chancellor Richard Carranza stunned parents last week when she said decisions on admission criteria for the city’s top middle and high schools are “political.”
“Anything that’s as high stakes and important as — and political, to be honest — as admissions policy is going to have to be something that’s cleared by the city,” said Adrienne Austin, deputy chancellor for community empowerment, partnerships and communications.
Austin made the startling comment after Manhattan dad Leonard Silverman asked about still-unknown Department of Education plans to give the SHSAT — the entry exam for eight specialized high schools — plus Gifted & Talented testing, and admission rules for kids applying to middle and high schools.
“I know parents want to know about admissions. I know parents want to know about grading policy. I want to know about grading policy and admissions,” Austin said. “I don’t have that information yet.”
Austin spoke Thursday at a Zoom meeting of the Chancellor’s Parent Advisory Committee, a citywide panel of 38 parent representatives.
Silverman, of Manhattan’s District 2, was taken aback by Austin’s honesty.
“Did she actually say what I think she said?” he wondered after her comment.
“I think it shows there’s more going on behind the scenes than meets the eye. It’s not just educational issues,” Silverman said.
He added, “I don’t think issues like these should be political. Parents are caught in the crossfire. Parents want to know what’s going to happen next year, and if politics are delaying the process, it’s disconcerting.”
Yiatin Chu, co-president of PLACE NYC, a parent group that supports competitive admissions, called Austin’s comments “despicable.”
“For a top DOE leader to say that these decisions are political tells you that our educators have become politicians,” she said. “And they’re seizing on our health and education crisis to further their political agenda.”
Mayor de Blasio and Carranza have tried unsuccessfully to get rid of the SHSAT, the sole entry criteria, required by state law, for Stuyvesant, Bronx HS of Science, and Brooklyn Tech. Five other high schools use the exam, which Carranza called “racist.”
Carranza also opposes the widespread practice of “screening” students for admission at hundreds of middle and high schools based on grades, state test scores, attendance and other measures, saying it results in racial segregation.
Despite demands by advocacy groups such as Teens Take Charge, Carranza has not yet made changes, but has suggested the pandemic can lead to dropping such criteria.
“Never waste a good crisis to transform a system,” he told principals in May. “We see this as an opportunity to finally push and move and be very strategic in a very aggressive way what we know is the equity agenda for our kids.”
Manhattan City Councilman Keith Powers, who has introduced a resolution asking the state to repeal Hecht-Calendra, the law requiring the SHSAT, interprets Austin’s use of the word “political” as a reference to the controversy swirling around admission issues,
“History has shown that these discussions have lots of stake holders who feel very strongly,” Powers said. “But parents deserve to know what those policies are going to be so they can start the process of applying to schools and planning for where their children will go.”
The councilman added, “Ultimately, this is going to wind up at the mayor’s discretion.”
Austin declined to explain her remark.
“Admissions processes deeply impact each student’s education, and we are always on the side of equity and increasing access and opportunity,” DOE spokeswoman Katie O’Hanlon said.
“Our decisions are driven by the best interest of our students, which is why we have publicly opposed SHSAT and haven’t added screened schools. We have engaged families citywide on admissions, and will share updates soon.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-17--Florida man is sole out-of-state traveler busted in NYC for breaking quarantine

ALBANY — In his new book , Gov .
Andrew Cuomo outs ...

Sign up for our special edition newsletter to get a daily update on the coronavirus pandemic.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio put on a show of force for travelers from states on New York’s quarantine list — but despite the threats, only a single person has been busted for breaking the order, officials said.
Mark Anthony Perez, 51 of Miramar, Florida, wasn’t in his room when city sheriff’s deputies showed up twice, on Sept. 18, to the Club Wyndham in Midtown, where he was supposed to be quarantining for two weeks, according to an arrest report.
The next morning, the front desk called him down and the deputies were there to issue him two summons. Perez, who could not be reached for comment, faces a maximum penalty of $1,500 in fines, the sheriff’s department said.
Cuomo enacted the quarantine program in June and tasked local governments with enforcing it. Anyone traveling from states with positive COVID test rates above 10 percent on a seven-day rolling average is required to fill out a contact-tracing form and quarantine for two weeks. Thirty-eight states were listed as of Saturday.
Since its inception, skeptics have wondered if the initiative lacked practicality in favor of politicking.
“I think it’s a signal to those other states that reopened hastily and with lax precautions, and are now suffering from a spike in cases as a result. Some of these states, such as Florida, had imposed similar travel restrictions on New Yorkers, so it’s a kind of poetic justice,” said Stephen Morse, professor of epidemiology at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, to City & State.
Months later as cases continued to climb outside New York, de Blasio set up sheriff’s checkpoints at bridges and tunnels and threatened $10,000 fines for quarantine violators.
“We’ve got to make clear to people there are consequences,” de Blasio said in August.
Some saw the checkpoints as wasted resources.
“This is more #covid theatrics by de Blasio & Cuomo,” Staten Island Councilman Joe Borelli said at the time.
At local airports and train stations, state workers strike an intimidating presence while handing out forms requiring travelers to disclose their whereabouts and contact information. The city sheriff’s department also distributes the forms at checkpoints.
More than 1 million traveler forms have been filled out, according to the state health department. The sheriff’s department said it has issued three summons for failing to complete the form and has screened 7,163 people at checkpoints.
Once travelers submit their information, the city’s Test and Trace Corps follow-up with phone calls, while the sheriff’s department regularly checks on guests at local hotels. The mayor’s office said more than 1 million phone calls have been made by Test and Trace.
A hotel manager at the Club Wyndham where Perez was busted said officials regularly drop by to distribute information and traveler forms, but the hotel does not track customers’ whereabouts.
“We don’t know if the guests are staying in their rooms,” he said.
A Manhattan resident who took a trip to the Midwest in August said state officials hounded him with phone calls when he returned.
“They called every day and asked if I was quarantining,” he said. “But they never did anything to make sure I was telling the truth.”
When asked if he followed the guidelines, the resident, who asked not to be named, said he’d “rather not say.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-17--Florida coach Dan Mullen gets COVID-19 week after calling to pack stadium

Florida Gators football coach Dan Mullen announced he has tested positive for coronavirus as part of the team ’ s recent outbreak .
The 48-year-old ’ s diagnosis comes after the program paused all team activities Tuesday because of “ an increase in positive COVID tests among players ” and a week after Mullen called on the school to allow fans to “ pack ’ the stadium for their next home game .
“ I have also tested positive for COVID and have received word that my test has been confirmed , ” Mullen wrote on social media Saturday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ from my family , who all remain healthy , and I am following the guidelines set forth by UF Health , the CDC and our public health officials .
I am proud of how our players , staff , and campus have navigated this unprecedented time and hope all continue to be safe.
” Tenth-ranked Florida already has had two games — this week against LSU and next week versus Missouri — postponed after at least 21 players and coaches tested positive and dozens more are quarantining because of contact tracing .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scholarship players mandated by the SEC to play a game .
Mullen also gave an update on how his players were doing .
“ Thankfully , everyone impacted is recovering well and has experienced mild to no symptoms , ” he wrote .
The outbreak came just days after the coach , following a loss to Texas A & M , pushed for the school ’ s administration to allow the full 90,000 fans into The Swamp .
Spectators were being allowed in at 20 percent capacity .
“ I know our governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the university administration decides to let us pack The Swamp … Hundred percent , because that crowd was a major factor in the game , and so , I certainly hope our university administration follows the governor , ” Mullen said Monday .
“ Our governor has passed a rule that we ’ re allowed to pack the Swamp .
We have 90,000 in The Swamp to give us that home-field advantage that Texas A & M had today.
” Mullen backtracked from those comments on Wednesday after the game with LSU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dealing with positive tests .
“ Whatever our local health officials come out and say , ‘ This is the number of people that we ’ re going to allow at the game right now , ’ that I want to encourage those people to come in , bring the energy , bring the excitement in the stadium and help our team to win , ” Mullen said Wednesday .

Florida Gators football coach Dan Mullen announced he has tested positive for coronavirus as part of the team’s recent outbreak.
The 48-year-old’s diagnosis comes after the program paused all team activities Tuesday because of “an increase in positive COVID tests among players” and a week after Mullen called on the school to allow fans to “pack’ the stadium for their next home game.
“I have also tested positive for COVID and have received word that my test has been confirmed,” Mullen wrote on social media Saturday. “I’m continuing to self-isolate from my family, who all remain healthy, and I am following the guidelines set forth by UF Health, the CDC and our public health officials. I am proud of how our players, staff, and campus have navigated this unprecedented time and hope all continue to be safe.”
Tenth-ranked Florida already has had two games — this week against LSU and next week versus Missouri — postponed after at least 21 players and coaches tested positive and dozens more are quarantining because of contact tracing. The outbreak left the program without the 53 scholarship players mandated by the SEC to play a game.
Mullen also gave an update on how his players were doing.
“Thankfully, everyone impacted is recovering well and has experienced mild to no symptoms,” he wrote.
The outbreak came just days after the coach, following a loss to Texas A&M, pushed for the school’s administration to allow the full 90,000 fans into The Swamp. Spectators were being allowed in at 20 percent capacity.
“I know our governor passed that rule so certainly, hopefully, the university administration decides to let us pack The Swamp … Hundred percent, because that crowd was a major factor in the game, and so, I certainly hope our university administration follows the governor,” Mullen said Monday. “Our governor has passed a rule that we’re allowed to pack the Swamp. We have 90,000 in The Swamp to give us that home-field advantage that Texas A&M had today.”
Mullen backtracked from those comments on Wednesday after the game with LSU had been canceled and his team was dealing with positive tests.
“Whatever our local health officials come out and say, ‘This is the number of people that we’re going to allow at the game right now,’ that I want to encourage those people to come in, bring the energy, bring the excitement in the stadium and help our team to win,” Mullen said Wednesday.


newyorkpost--2020-10-17--‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High’ house on market for $739,999

Now you can “ Learn it .
Know it .
Live it.
” Literally .
For the first time in 20 years , the house from “ Fast Times at Ridgemont High ” where Brad and Stacy Hamilton resided is up for sale .
Listed by Pinnacle Estate Properties for $ 739,999 , the iconic home boasts three bedrooms , two bathrooms and , of course , the scene of many of the film ’ s shoots : the swimming pool .
The listing notes : “ How often do you have a truly rare opportunity to live in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Your opportunity is now !
” While the West Hills home looks the same as it did in the 1982 comedy , it has been updated over the years as the listing lavishly describes : “ As you pull onto the driveway you will immediately be impressed by the serine ( sic ) landscaped front yard and freshly painted exterior .
You will walk into the living room with its warm hardwood floors and the charm this home so easily radiates .
You will treat your family or guests to a morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which boasts a private patio , two wooden decks , and a beautiful sparkling newly plastered swimming pool.
” The house has a new roof and water heater as well as a jacuzzi , and the backyard has a surround sound system in place .

Now you can “Learn it. Know it. Live it.” Literally.
For the first time in 20 years, the house from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” where Brad and Stacy Hamilton resided is up for sale.
Listed by Pinnacle Estate Properties for $739,999, the iconic home boasts three bedrooms, two bathrooms and, of course, the scene of many of the film’s shoots: the swimming pool.
The listing notes: “How often do you have a truly rare opportunity to live in a home where a famous movie was filmed? Your opportunity is now!”
While the West Hills home looks the same as it did in the 1982 comedy, it has been updated over the years as the listing lavishly describes: “As you pull onto the driveway you will immediately be impressed by the serine (sic) landscaped front yard and freshly painted exterior. You will walk into the living room with its warm hardwood floors and the charm this home so easily radiates. You will treat your family or guests to a morning cup of coffee in the secluded backyard which boasts a private patio, two wooden decks, and a beautiful sparkling newly plastered swimming pool.”
The house has a new roof and water heater as well as a jacuzzi, and the backyard has a surround sound system in place.


newyorkpost--2020-10-17--How Donald Trump’s developer dad and a Brooklyn rabbi saved a synagogue

A Queens middle school teacher waited more than three hours ...

When congregants enter the Beach Haven Jewish Center in Gravesend, Brooklyn, they pass a small plaque hanging just outside the main sanctuary.
“Fred Trump. Humanitarian,” declare the gold embossed, all-caps letters. “Let this plaque be a token of our sincerest appreciation, never to be forgotten, always to be a shining light to all men who have faith.”
The plaque, inscribed Dec. 15, 1956, is the most visible reminder of an unlikely and mostly unknown friendship between the Lutheran real estate developer — and father of President Trump — and this enclave of Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn.
“I would say that the Beach Haven Jewish Center would not be what it is today, if not for Mr. Fred Trump,” Rabbi Shimmy Silver told The Post. “We are grateful for his kindness and forever indebted to him for what he has done for our community,”
In the 1950s, Brooklyn’s Jewish community was exploding as new arrivals — many of them Holocaust survivors — tried to begin new lives.
This presented a dilemma for Rabbi Israel Wagner, whose congregation was starting to outgrow the garage of a building in Fred Trump’s Beach Haven development complex where it had been previously meeting.
So in 1955, he set out to meet the landlord.
Wagner, a native of Poland, wasn’t sure what to expect when he met Fred Trump. They had never spoken and the rabbi only knew the real estate magnate by his tough reputation.
The two hit it off immediately. Trump donated the land on Brooklyn’s Avenue Z, to Wagner’s congregation. A deed of sale from October 1955 shows the land officially transferring from Fred to the new Jewish center for $10. The elder Trump also financed much of the construction costs, as the new house of worship was born a year later.
Previous 1 of 10 Next Advertisement Fred Trump (left) receiving a certificate of appreciation from a congregant at the opening of the Beach Haven Jewish Center on Avenue Z in Gravesend. Helayne Seidman Fred Trump (left) and Rabbi Israel Wagner at the opening of the Beach Haven Jewish Center on Avenue Z in Gravesend, Brooklyn. Helayne Seidman Advertisement The deed of the Beach Haven Jewish Center. Helayne Seidman The congregation at the opening of the Beach Haven Jewish Center on Avenue Z in Gravesend, Brooklyn. Helayne Seidman Fred Trump speaks at the opening of the Beach Haven Jewish Center. At Fred's right is Rabbi Wagner, the founding rabbi who became a friend of Fred. Helayne Seidman Advertisement Photo of a fundraising dinner journal from The Beach Haven Jewish Center. Helayne Seidman The real estate of the Beach Haven Jewish Center when it opened in 1956. Helayne Seidman Advertisement
Trump and Wagner’s “mutual love, respect, and friendship only deepened over the next 48 years,” reads the synagogue website — where the story is prominently featured.
Inside a small synagogue archive, contemporary records and photos tell more of the story.
Trump never missed the synagogues’s annual fundraiser dinner, which he attended throughout the 1970s and 80s — often cutting checks for $2,500 and $3,500.
Pristinely preserved black and white photos show a beaming Trump standing alongside Wagner, the man he called “my rabbi.”
The temple continued good relations with the Trump family even after Fred Trump’s death in 1999. When Wagner’s widow turned 90 in Israel in the mid-2010s, Donald Trump sent birthday wishes, according to Rabbi Silver.
Some older members still have memories of Fred Trump, and his sons Donald and Fred Jr., bouncing around the old family offices just down the street on Avenue Z.
As for current politics, Rabbi Silver said he was pleased with new Israel security treaties secured by the president, but was otherwise mum, declining to opine about next month’s election.
“We are a synagogue and Jewish community center. Our sole focus is strengthening the Jewish identity and observance of our community,” he said.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Broncos vs. Patriots prediction, line: New England won’t cover

Dave Tuley , senior reporter at VSiN.com , is in his third season with the Post ’ s Bettor ’ s Guide .
His handicapping pieces appear in VSiN ’ s online magazine , Point Spread Weekly .
( Home team in CAPS ) I know we ’ re not supposed to go against Bill Belichick off a loss ( but it ’ s 2020 , and the old rules don ’ t always apply ) and Cam Newton is back , but the Patriots still shouldn ’ t be double-digit favorites here .
Starting QB Drew Lock might be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ RB Phillip Lindsay , TE Noah Fant and CB A.J .
Bouye .
If Brett Rypien gets the call at QB , he did rip up the Jets in a 37-28 win in Week 4 ’ s Thursday night game .
Gim me the generous points !
The Ravens pretty much have cruised in their four wins ( losing only to the defending-champion Chiefs ) , so that makes them scary to fade .
However , the Eagles came through for us in Week 4 with their upset of the 49ers and should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 , so they ’ re better than their 1-3-1 record .
Frankly , they ’ re better than the teams the Ravens have been dominating ( with the possible exception of the Browns in Week 1 ) and should be competitive enough to stay within a touchdown .

Want even more betting news? Sign up for VSiN's free daily newsletter. Listen Live to VSiN's sports betting shows.
Dave Tuley, senior reporter at VSiN.com, is in his third season with the Post’s Bettor’s Guide. His handicapping pieces appear in VSiN’s online magazine, Point Spread Weekly. (Home team in CAPS)
Denver Broncos (+10) over NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
I know we’re not supposed to go against Bill Belichick off a loss (but it’s 2020, and the old rules don’t always apply) and Cam Newton is back, but the Patriots still shouldn’t be double-digit favorites here. Starting QB Drew Lock might be back for the Broncos as well as RB Phillip Lindsay, TE Noah Fant and CB A.J. Bouye. If Brett Rypien gets the call at QB, he did rip up the Jets in a 37-28 win in Week 4’s Thursday night game. Gimme the generous points!
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (+7.5) over Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens pretty much have cruised in their four wins (losing only to the defending-champion Chiefs), so that makes them scary to fade. However, the Eagles came through for us in Week 4 with their upset of the 49ers and should have covered against the Steelers in Week 5, so they’re better than their 1-3-1 record. Frankly, they’re better than the teams the Ravens have been dominating (with the possible exception of the Browns in Week 1) and should be competitive enough to stay within a touchdown.
Last week: 2-0, Browns (W), Dolphins (W).
2020 season: 3-6-1.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--This extra large cast iron cookware set is on sale for 30 percent off

Discover the highlights of our NY Post Store , from our partner StackCommerce .
NY Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links .
Prior to quarantine , you probably did a lot of eating out , picking up takeout , and ordering Grubhub .
Between commuting to work , driving your daughter to soccer practice , picking up your son from piano lessons , and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life , you probably feel pretty lucky that you were able to find time to eat at all—never mind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with WFH and Zoom school , many of those excuses are out the window .
Sure , you could order takeout , because , let ’ s face it : it ’ s a whole lot easier .
But there are so many benefits of eating a home-cooked meal , like the ones you could make in this impressive cast-iron cookware set .
According to a study by Public Health Nutrition , people who frequently cook dinner at home consume fewer calories than those who cook less , and—get this—those who frequently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the occasions when they choose to eat out .
There ’ s a nutritional aspect , too .
According to a review of 41 studies published in Nutrition Reviews , those who cook at home less often tend to have diets that lack core food groups , including essentials like fruits and vegetables .
If you are ready to start whipping up delicious , healthy meals in the kitchen , then you need the right tools to make it happen .
One of our favorite must-have cooking sets is the Pur Extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Set .
Since they are factory pre-seasoned , a lot of the hassle of cast iron is eliminated ; you can expect them to be easy to clean and leave your food rich in flavor .
They ’ re also virtually indestructible , designed to last for decades .
Plus , since they are built to provide superior heat retention , your meals will turn out just right every time .
You can score the Pur Extra Large Cast Iron Pans Cookware : 3-Piece Set for only $ 69.99—that ’ s 30 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order it , be sure to check out some of our delicious recipes for some added inspiration .

Discover the highlights of our NY Post Store, from our partner StackCommerce. NY Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.
Prior to quarantine, you probably did a lot of eating out, picking up takeout, and ordering Grubhub. Between commuting to work, driving your daughter to soccer practice, picking up your son from piano lessons, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, you probably feel pretty lucky that you were able to find time to eat at all—never mind cooking a meal at home.
Nowadays, with WFH and Zoom school, many of those excuses are out the window. Sure, you could order takeout, because, let’s face it: it’s a whole lot easier. But there are so many benefits of eating a home-cooked meal, like the ones you could make in this impressive cast-iron cookware set.
According to a study by Public Health Nutrition, people who frequently cook dinner at home consume fewer calories than those who cook less, and—get this—those who frequently cook at home also consume fewer calories on the occasions when they choose to eat out. There’s a nutritional aspect, too. According to a review of 41 studies published in Nutrition Reviews, those who cook at home less often tend to have diets that lack core food groups, including essentials like fruits and vegetables.
If you are ready to start whipping up delicious, healthy meals in the kitchen, then you need the right tools to make it happen. One of our favorite must-have cooking sets is the Pur Extra Large Cast Iron Pans Cookware: 3-Piece Set.
Since they are factory pre-seasoned, a lot of the hassle of cast iron is eliminated; you can expect them to be easy to clean and leave your food rich in flavor. They’re also virtually indestructible, designed to last for decades. Plus, since they are built to provide superior heat retention, your meals will turn out just right every time.
You can score the Pur Extra Large Cast Iron Pans Cookware: 3-Piece Set for only $69.99—that’s 30% off! Oh, and once you order it, be sure to check out some of our delicious recipes for some added inspiration.
Prices subject to change.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Learn how to play the guitar, piano and drums from the comfort of your home

Discover the highlights of our NY Post Store , from our partner StackCommerce .
NY Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links .
Studies show that studying and playing music in childhood can provide long-term protection against memory loss , cognitive decline , and waning coordination .
According to neuropsychologist Brenda Hanna-Pladdy of Emory University , musical training creates additional neural connections in childhood—a profound effect that can last a lifetime .
If you convinced your parents to cancel after only a few sessions , no need to fret .
Jennifer Bugos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the University of South Florida , studied in the impact of piano lessons on adults ages 60–85 .
She found that picking up the instrument had positive impacts on memory , verbal fluency , information processing , and other important cognitive functions—showing that you don ’ t need to start as a child in order to reap the benefits .
Ready to get started ?
Whether you are interested in learning to play the piano , guitar , or drums , there is a great online method that can help you get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Guitar & Drums Master Class Bundle is a 9-course training broken down into 698 hands-on lessons .
Not only will you learn how to get started with the instrument of your choice , but this training will also teach you how to write music and lyrics .
By first gaining an understanding of pitch , bass , treble notes , key signatures , and modulation , you will build a strong foundation important in creating music .
Then , you will move on to discovering the basics of song arrangement , writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more .
Before you know it , you will be rocking out to your very own hit .
The Learn to Play Piano , Guitar & Drums Master Class Bundle is valued at $ 1791 , but you can access it now for $ 59.99 , saving 96 % .

Discover the highlights of our NY Post Store, from our partner StackCommerce. NY Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you buy through our links.
Studies show that studying and playing music in childhood can provide long-term protection against memory loss, cognitive decline, and waning coordination. According to neuropsychologist Brenda Hanna-Pladdy of Emory University, musical training creates additional neural connections in childhood—a profound effect that can last a lifetime.
If you convinced your parents to cancel after only a few sessions, no need to fret. Jennifer Bugos, an assistant professor of music education at the University of South Florida, studied in the impact of piano lessons on adults ages 60–85. She found that picking up the instrument had positive impacts on memory, verbal fluency, information processing, and other important cognitive functions—showing that you don’t need to start as a child in order to reap the benefits.
Ready to get started? Whether you are interested in learning to play the piano, guitar, or drums, there is a great online method that can help you get going. The Learn to Play Piano, Guitar & Drums Master Class Bundle is a 9-course training broken down into 698 hands-on lessons.
Not only will you learn how to get started with the instrument of your choice, but this training will also teach you how to write music and lyrics. By first gaining an understanding of pitch, bass, treble notes, key signatures, and modulation, you will build a strong foundation important in creating music. Then, you will move on to discovering the basics of song arrangement, writing a drum beat, and so much more. Before you know it, you will be rocking out to your very own hit.
The Learn to Play Piano, Guitar & Drums Master Class Bundle is valued at $1791, but you can access it now for $59.99, saving 96%.
Prices subject to change.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--NFL picks for Week 6: Perfect time to bet on Giants’ first win

This Sunday ’ s game between the New York Giants and the Washington Football Team offers a comparison between two different styles of NFL handicapping .
The first is more of an eye test .
Though the Giants come in winless at 0-5 and the WFT is 1-4 , Big Blue appears to be in much better form right now .
They have covered the spread in three of their past four — all tough road assignments at the Bears , Rams and Cowboys — and could have won two of those games outright .
There are many who believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put them into the winners ’ circle , finally , is a nice home date against a terrible opponent .
The WFT would seem to fit the bill , having lost four in a row by margins of 15 , 14 , 14 and 20 .
Kyle Allen is expected to return under center after missing the second half last week against the Rams with an arm injury .
So what ’ s getting in the way of a Giants selection — perhaps even a Best Bet or a Lock of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that pesky “ other style ” of handicapping , the one in which you follow the money .
This line opened at Giants -3.5 , and despite an even ticket split , according to VSiN , the line moved though the key number of 3 all the way to 2.5 .
That signals there was sharp action on the WFT at +3.5 and +3 .
Over the long haul , the best practice is to stay on the side of the sharp bettors ( aka the smart money ) .
But timing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sharp play , but we ’ re too late to bet that number .
If the line goes back to 3 , we ’ ll know Giants -2.5 was sharp , as well .
So , what to do ?
The play here is the Giants , favored for the first time this season , at this suspiciously low number .
They couldn ’ t hold a 17-3 lead against the Cowboys , but if they get up on Washington , I figure they ’ ll show some killer instinct this time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ games in a row entering Sunday .
That ’ s all five games this season , all 16 in 2019 and the final game of 2018 .
Suddenly , after last week ’ s impressive road destruction of the 49ers , the Dolphins not only are favored , but by nearly double digits .
I ’ m expecting a respectable performance from Joe Flacco , who should add a weapon in rookie Denzel Mims .
But it ’ s not a stretch to envision 33-16 or so on the scoreboard .
Romeo Crennel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first game in place of fired coach Bill O ’ Brien .
They beat the Jaguars , 30-14 , after not having scored more than 23 or allowed fewer than 28 points in four losses .
The Titans have an extra short week and could be believing their press clippings after a 42-16 destruction of the Bills .
Joe Burrow couldn ’ t get anything going in a tough road spot at Baltimore as the Bengals fell , 27-3 .
This spot isn ’ t much easier , as the Colts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed 9.0 ppg .
An opening line of 9.5 has moved in the Bengals ’ direction , though .
Unlike in the Giants game , we ’ ll follow the money and give Burrow another shot .
A Falcons assistant coach tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday morning , but this game , for now , is on .
Raheem Morris takes over for the fired Dan Quinn .
This could give the Falcons a temporarily lift .
Vikings are 1-4 , without Dalvin Cook and coming off a soul-crushing loss at Seattle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deterrent to backing the Patriots with two weeks to prepare after their loss to the Chiefs — and with Cam Newton and possibly Stephon Gilmore returning .
Broncos benefit from the week delay as QB Drew Lock is expected to return .
But I ’ m in no mood to mess with Bill Belichick here .
The Ravens have responded to their loss to the Chiefs with wins by 14 at Washington and 24 versus Cincinnati .
This is a bit of a step up in class against the Eagles , who hung @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pittsburgh .
It ’ s their first time up against Lamar Jackson , so the lean is his way in a tough one to call .
Hard to make this selection without knowing the status of Odell Beckham Jr. ’ s “ illness.
” The Browns already are down Nick Chubb .
Mike Tomlin won ’ t let the Steelers get too immersed in the Myles Garrett revenge angle , and Chase Claypool ’ s four TDs last week game opposing defensive coordinators something new to think about .
The Brady of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Tampa , but Joe Brady in Charlotte .
The former LSU genius has the Panthers ’ offense humming behind QB Teddy Bridgewater , who has found a connection with former Jets wide receiver Robby Anderson , and has done it even without Christian McCaffrey .
The Lions are off a bye following a close home loss to the Saints , which was preceded by a nice victory at Arizona .
Liking Matthew Stafford-to-Kenny Golladay against this Jaguars defense .
Green Bay is hard to bet against at 4-0 SU and ATS and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been more up and down , even if there ’ s something appealing about the idea of Tom Brady wearing the home-underdog label .
This one ’ s all about pride .
After getting their heads handed to them by the Dolphins , 43-17 , figuring the 49ers will be all there in prime time .
Both teams are coming off losses in which their secondaries were torched .
Still , Kansas City has given up more than 20 points just that one time .
Buffalo has yielded 23 or more four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off Tuesday loss .
Third road game in a row for the Cardinals , which could hinder Kyler Murray from reaching the numbers Dallas usually gives up .
Cowboys will circle the wagons around capable Andy Dalton , who is loaded with weapons .
Best bets : Panthers , Giants , Steelers .
Lock of the week : Panthers ( Locks 1-3-1 in 2020 ) .
Last week : 8-6 overall , 2-1 Best Bets .

This Sunday’s game between the New York Giants and the Washington Football Team offers a comparison between two different styles of NFL handicapping.
The first is more of an eye test. Though the Giants come in winless at 0-5 and the WFT is 1-4, Big Blue appears to be in much better form right now. They have covered the spread in three of their past four — all tough road assignments at the Bears, Rams and Cowboys — and could have won two of those games outright.
There are many who believe all Daniel Jones and Joe Judge need to put them into the winners’ circle, finally, is a nice home date against a terrible opponent. The WFT would seem to fit the bill, having lost four in a row by margins of 15, 14, 14 and 20. Kyle Allen is expected to return under center after missing the second half last week against the Rams with an arm injury.
So what’s getting in the way of a Giants selection — perhaps even a Best Bet or a Lock of the Week? Well, it’s that pesky “other style” of handicapping, the one in which you follow the money. This line opened at Giants -3.5, and despite an even ticket split, according to VSiN, the line moved though the key number of 3 all the way to 2.5. That signals there was sharp action on the WFT at +3.5 and +3.
Over the long haul, the best practice is to stay on the side of the sharp bettors (aka the smart money). But timing is also critical. WFT +3.5 was a sharp play, but we’re too late to bet that number. If the line goes back to 3, we’ll know Giants -2.5 was sharp, as well.
So, what to do? The play here is the Giants, favored for the first time this season, at this suspiciously low number. They couldn’t hold a 17-3 lead against the Cowboys, but if they get up on Washington, I figure they’ll show some killer instinct this time.
The pick: Giants, -2.5.
(Home team in CAPS)
MIAMI DOLPHINS (-9.5) over New York Jets
The Dolphins have been underdogs for 22 games in a row entering Sunday. That’s all five games this season, all 16 in 2019 and the final game of 2018. Suddenly, after last week’s impressive road destruction of the 49ers, the Dolphins not only are favored, but by nearly double digits. I’m expecting a respectable performance from Joe Flacco, who should add a weapon in rookie Denzel Mims. But it’s not a stretch to envision 33-16 or so on the scoreboard.
Houston Texans (+3.5) over TENNESSEE TITANS
Romeo Crennel gave the Texans a big boost in his first game in place of fired coach Bill O’Brien. They beat the Jaguars, 30-14, after not having scored more than 23 or allowed fewer than 28 points in four losses. The Titans have an extra short week and could be believing their press clippings after a 42-16 destruction of the Bills.
Cincinnati Bengals (+7.5) over INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Joe Burrow couldn’t get anything going in a tough road spot at Baltimore as the Bengals fell, 27-3. This spot isn’t much easier, as the Colts, in their two home games, have allowed 9.0 ppg. An opening line of 9.5 has moved in the Bengals’ direction, though. Unlike in the Giants game, we’ll follow the money and give Burrow another shot.
Atlanta Falcons (+4.5) over MINNESOTA VIKINGS
A Falcons assistant coach tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday morning, but this game, for now, is on. Raheem Morris takes over for the fired Dan Quinn. This could give the Falcons a temporarily lift. Vikings are 1-4, without Dalvin Cook and coming off a soul-crushing loss at Seattle.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (-10) over Denver Broncos
Hefty number, but not a deterrent to backing the Patriots with two weeks to prepare after their loss to the Chiefs — and with Cam Newton and possibly Stephon Gilmore returning. Broncos benefit from the week delay as QB Drew Lock is expected to return. But I’m in no mood to mess with Bill Belichick here.
Baltimore Ravens (-7.5) over PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
The Ravens have responded to their loss to the Chiefs with wins by 14 at Washington and 24 versus Cincinnati. This is a bit of a step up in class against the Eagles, who hung in before losing a cover late in Pittsburgh. It’s their first time up against Lamar Jackson, so the lean is his way in a tough one to call.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (-3.5) over Cleveland Browns
Hard to make this selection without knowing the status of Odell Beckham Jr.’s “illness.” The Browns already are down Nick Chubb. Mike Tomlin won’t let the Steelers get too immersed in the Myles Garrett revenge angle, and Chase Claypool’s four TDs last week game opposing defensive coordinators something new to think about.
CAROLINA PANTHERS (-1) over Chicago Bears
The Brady of the Year so far is not Tom Brady in Tampa, but Joe Brady in Charlotte. The former LSU genius has the Panthers’ offense humming behind QB Teddy Bridgewater, who has found a connection with former Jets wide receiver Robby Anderson, and has done it even without Christian McCaffrey.
Detroit Lions (-3.5) over JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
The Lions are off a bye following a close home loss to the Saints, which was preceded by a nice victory at Arizona. Liking Matthew Stafford-to-Kenny Golladay against this Jaguars defense.
Green Bay Packers (-1) over TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Green Bay is hard to bet against at 4-0 SU and ATS and coming off a bye. The Bucs have been more up and down, even if there’s something appealing about the idea of Tom Brady wearing the home-underdog label.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (+3) over Los Angeles Rams
This one’s all about pride. After getting their heads handed to them by the Dolphins, 43-17, figuring the 49ers will be all there in prime time.
Monday
Kansas City Chiefs (-4) over BUFFALO BILLS
Both teams are coming off losses in which their secondaries were torched. Still, Kansas City has given up more than 20 points just that one time. Buffalo has yielded 23 or more four times. Plus Bills on extra-short week off Tuesday loss.
DALLAS COWBOYS (+1.5) over Arizona Cardinals
Third road game in a row for the Cardinals, which could hinder Kyler Murray from reaching the numbers Dallas usually gives up. Cowboys will circle the wagons around capable Andy Dalton, who is loaded with weapons.
Best bets: Panthers, Giants, Steelers.
Lock of the week: Panthers (Locks 1-3-1 in 2020).
Last week: 8-6 overall, 2-1 Best Bets.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Giants vs. Washington: Preview, predictions, what to watch for

Well , do they ?
Do the Giants have anyone on their ...

Paul’s pick
Even at their lowest points, the Giants have been able to beat Washington. Daniel Jones is 2-0 with six touchdown passes and — get this — no fumbles in his two starts in this series. If the Giants cannot hold down the Kyle Allen attack, something is wrong. Can’t lose ’em all, right?
Giants 24, Washington 13
Marquee matchup
Washington DE Chase Young vs. Giants LT Andrew Thomas
This could be the first of a decades-long duel between these two. Young went No. 2 overall in the 2020 draft and is a prototypical menacing edge rusher. He has 2.5 sacks and missed the last game with a groin injury. Just the Giants’ luck that Young is back. He has 10 tackles, two quarterback hits, three tackles for loss and one forced fumble.
Thomas is not coming off a strong showing and is getting beat on inside moves, which severely limited where Daniel Jones can step up in the pocket.
“I’m sure Andrew’s gonna be fired up for it,’’ offensive line coach Marc Colombo said. “I’m sure they’ll both be fired up for it. I don’t think I’m gonna have to push him extra this week. But he’ll be ready for the challenge.’’
Four downs
Man down: This is the first time in three years the Giants will have to go an extended period without Lorenzo Carter (ruptured left Achilles tendon). Carter as a rangy outside linebacker is certainly not a feared player, but he was the best the Giants put on the field. This means more Markus Golden, last year’s sack leader with 10. Kyler Fackrell, a smart free-agent signing from the Packers, played 65 of the 66 snaps on defense last week, and he will have to ready himself for every-down action in Carter’s absence.
“I think that will be the plan moving forward, at least that’s what I’m preparing for,’’ said Fackrell, who had a 46-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Cowboys. “I don’t mind it. I would prefer to be on the field.’’
Seventh heaven: Just like that, rookie Tae Crowder got 74 percent of the defensive snaps last week at inside linebacker. Consider this the ongoing quest to find someone at this spot. Crowder, out of Georgia, was the 255th player taken in the draft, making him “Mr. Irrelevant,’’ though for now he is relevant for the Giants.
“His biggest thing is he needs to get a little more play strength, continue to gain weight,’’ inside linebackers coach Kevin Sherrer said of the 235-pound Crowder. David Mayo was activated off injured reserve and adds some muscle.
Nothing to gaffe about: Here is the thing with the Giants: They cannot afford to give away points or fail to secure points because of brutal mistakes. They are not talented enough to recover. They coughed away seven points last week when a Daniel Jones fumble was returned for a touchdown. It was a blind-side hit on Jones, but he has to do better.
“That was the perfect storm,’’ quarterbacks coach Jerry Schuplinski said. “On some of those plays, when they get you I think it’s our responsibility to understand when you’re got and just kind of say, ‘It’s over,’ and try to cover it up as best we can and go down.’’
Familiar face: Some guys never seem to get old. Can it be Landon Collins is just 26? The Giants’ second-round pick in 2015 is in his sixth NFL season and, after so much winning in college at Alabama, is entangled in losing in the NFL. He was 25-39 with the Giants and is 4-17 in his 21 games since signing a six-year, $84 million deal with Washington. Collins is third on his team in tackles with 32, including three for losses, and has one interception after not getting any last year. This is not exactly high drama — though Collins last year in his first game against the Giants nearly came to blows with his replacement, Jabrill Peppers.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Jets vs. Dolphins: Preview, predictions, what to watch for

Remember when the Jets could count on at least one ...

Costello Call’s
Can the Jets finally get that elusive first win? The Dolphins are not world-beaters, but they are better than the Jets, and Ryan Fitzpatrick is playing well. That will spell trouble for the Jets’ defense. Gregg Williams will find someone to blame after this one.
Dolphins 24, Jets 13
Marquee matchup
Dolphins QB Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Jets DC Gregg Williams
Jets fans know all too well what a red-hot Fitzpatrick looks like. His best season was with the Jets in 2015. He could be on a hot streak again after throwing for three touchdowns last week against the 49ers and completing 22 of 28 passes for 350 yards. Fitzpatrick’s performance has quieted the cries for rookie Tua Tagovailoa to start. Can he keep it up, or will the bad Fitz appear this week?
Williams is presiding over a unit that is allowing 32.2 points per game. Only the Cowboys are worse. He has to figure out a way to slow down Fitzpatrick.
“Fitz is a gunslinger now. He’s very intelligent,” Williams said. “The big thing is when he starts off hot, he has a chance to just get hotter. We have to do a good job knowing that when you think you’ve got the guy covered that doesn’t make any difference to him. He’ll still throw it and stick it in a tight window.”
Four downs
Joe with the flow: Joe Flacco made his first start as a Jet last week in the loss to the Cardinals and played OK. Flacco admittedly was shaky at first, whether it was nerves or shaking off rust after a year of not playing. Sam Darnold’s shoulder is still not 100 percent, so Flacco gets the start against the Dolphins. He is 6-0 in his career against Miami, with 10 touchdown passes and three interceptions, although those wins came with some good Ravens teams.
Flacco said he believes he’ll be better in his second Jets start because he will be calmer.
“I definitely think I’ll be different, you know, probably a little bit different state of mind come Sunday,” Flacco said. “Definitely a lot of new feelings and things like that going through my head from [last] Sunday, just because it was a little bit different for me. I put a lot of things out of my head as much as possible, but I think this week will be a little bit more easier, you know, a little bit easier to relax and get into the flow of the game right away.”
Dolphins makeover: This version of the Dolphins looks much different than the one the Jets faced last year. Miami spent $250 million in free agency, $150 million of that guaranteed to reshape the roster. They also had 11 draft picks. The biggest contracts went to the defense, with cornerback Byron Jones (five years, $82.5 million), linebacker Kyle Van Noy (four years, $51 million) and defensive end Shaq Lawson (three years, $30 million) leading the way.
A year after tearing their roster down, the Dolphins spent big to rebuild it. It could be a similar blueprint for the Jets next year.
Receiver return: The Jets will get one healthy body back on offense. Wide receiver Breshad Perriman is expected to play after missing three games with an ankle injury. The Jets signed Perriman in the offseason hoping he would be a deep threat for Darnold. Without him and rookie Denzel Mims on the field, the offense has been unable to attack down the field.
“I think it helps anytime you get a guy that is as fast as he is,” coach Adam Gase said. “It puts a different pressure on the defense. We haven’t had anybody with this kind of speed out there since he’s been gone.”
Bye-bye Bell: The Jets made the decision to release running back Le’Veon Bell this week after a failed attempt to trade him. That clears the way for rookie running back La’Mical Perine to have a larger role in the offense, something Gase promised this week.
The fourth-round pick from Florida showed promise this summer, and has explosive play-making ability that the offense has lacked. Perine is still a rookie and there remains a question of whether the coaches trust him in pass protection, but he should see more playing time than he has so far this season.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Astros’ loss a small bit of justice in a rough 2020

Even a broken country , to tweak a timeworn phrase , is right twice a year .
With apologies to the deservedly beloved Dusty Baker , Major League Baseball and the United States of America benefit from holding a World Series without the Houston Astros .
Both MLB and the USA have suffered enough in 2020 , right ?
By holding off the ’ Stros , 4-2 , Saturday night at San Diego ’ s Petco Park in the loser-goes-home American League Championship Series Game 7 , the Tampa Bay Rays didn ’ t merely avoid infamy by avoiding the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who of course collapsed against their rival Red Sox after prevailing in the first three contests .
No , by rebounding just in time following that identical “ win three , lose three ” pattern — the only club besides the ’ 04 Yankees to do even that — the Rays spared the world from these Astros , their owner and long-time players historic scoundrels , getting the last laugh .
“ I ’ m just f—ing proud of this team , man , ” Astros shortstop Carlos Correa said .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve never had so much fun .
From the pandemic to spring training 2.0 we didn ’ t give up .
We didn ’ t fold.
” For sure , this Houston club deserves props for putting a scare into baseball after a playoff invitation arrived in its mailbox thanks only to the expanded format , its 29-31 record under first-year manager Baker impressing no one .
The Astros then proceeded to upset the Twins in the wild-card round and the A ’ s in the ALDS before climbing out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alas , there ’ s the scandal that launched their “ unbelievable ride , ” their sign-stealing scheme from 2017 and 2018 that became part of baseball ’ s record last January with a report by Rob Manfred .
That will continue to trump any admiration they drew from their resilience of these past few weeks .
The Astros became loathed not only for the gall of their operation , by which they set up a strategically placed TV monitor to convey the opponents ’ pitch selection in real time by banging on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all the way to a 2017 championship , but for the near-complete lack of accountability they displayed once they got caught and convicted .
Their owner Jim Crane led the way in downplaying the severity of his club ’ s wrongdoing — even after dismissing president of baseball operations Jeff Luhnow and manager A.J .
Hinch , both of thom received season-long suspensions for 2020 — and flat-out dismissing commissioner Rob Manfred ’ s written conclusion that the organization , which also butchered an incident between a club official and a reporter during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a serious culture crisis .
His players , nearly all of whom offered grudging apologies at best , avoided their day in the court of public opinion when the novel coronavirus locked fans out of the ballpark .
“ When we take the field , that ’ s our playground , ” Correa said .
“ We ’ re just kids having fun and trying to win ball games.
” Kids with a ( baseball ) criminal record , many of them .
Ironically , it was a 2017 Astro , Rays starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bleeding for his team and averted the crisis for his planet while super rookie Carlos Arozarena earned series Most Valuable Player honors with a two-run , first-inning homer — his fourth against Houston this week .
It would ’ ve been great to see Baker , 71 , to take another shot at his first ring in 23 years of managing , and the sage skipper spoke with pride about his team ’ s comeback and perspective about the many recent losses he has suffered in his life , including former MLB executive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday ) .
“ Those are far greater losses than losing a ballgame , ” Baker said .
The manager added , “ One thing for sure , we ’ ll be back in this position next year.
” We ’ ll cross that bridge when we get there .
For now , though ?
Thanks for finally getting something right , 2020 .
You owe us one more .
Anyone have any suggestions ?

Even a broken country, to tweak a timeworn phrase, is right twice a year.
Correct outcome number one finally arrived Saturday night at Petco Park.
With apologies to the deservedly beloved Dusty Baker, Major League Baseball and the United States of America benefit from holding a World Series without the Houston Astros. Both MLB and the USA have suffered enough in 2020, right?
By holding off the ’Stros, 4-2, Saturday night at San Diego’s Petco Park in the loser-goes-home American League Championship Series Game 7, the Tampa Bay Rays didn’t merely avoid infamy by avoiding the fate that befell the 2004 Yankees, who of course collapsed against their rival Red Sox after prevailing in the first three contests. No, by rebounding just in time following that identical “win three, lose three” pattern — the only club besides the ’04 Yankees to do even that — the Rays spared the world from these Astros, their owner and long-time players historic scoundrels, getting the last laugh.
“I’m just f—ing proud of this team, man,” Astros shortstop Carlos Correa said. “It’s been an unbelievable ride. I’ve never had so much fun. From the pandemic to spring training 2.0 we didn’t give up. We didn’t fold.”
For sure, this Houston club deserves props for putting a scare into baseball after a playoff invitation arrived in its mailbox thanks only to the expanded format, its 29-31 record under first-year manager Baker impressing no one. The Astros then proceeded to upset the Twins in the wild-card round and the A’s in the ALDS before climbing out of their 0-3 hole against the Rays.
Alas, there’s the scandal that launched their “unbelievable ride,” their sign-stealing scheme from 2017 and 2018 that became part of baseball’s record last January with a report by Rob Manfred. That will continue to trump any admiration they drew from their resilience of these past few weeks.
The Astros became loathed not only for the gall of their operation, by which they set up a strategically placed TV monitor to convey the opponents’ pitch selection in real time by banging on a trash can, and riding that all the way to a 2017 championship, but for the near-complete lack of accountability they displayed once they got caught and convicted.
Their owner Jim Crane led the way in downplaying the severity of his club’s wrongdoing — even after dismissing president of baseball operations Jeff Luhnow and manager A.J. Hinch, both of thom received season-long suspensions for 2020 — and flat-out dismissing commissioner Rob Manfred’s written conclusion that the organization, which also butchered an incident between a club official and a reporter during last year’s postseason, faced a serious culture crisis. His players, nearly all of whom offered grudging apologies at best, avoided their day in the court of public opinion when the novel coronavirus locked fans out of the ballpark.
Ugly, ugly, ugly.
“When we take the field, that’s our playground,” Correa said. “We’re just kids having fun and trying to win ball games.”
Kids with a (baseball) criminal record, many of them. Ironically, it was a 2017 Astro, Rays starting pitcher Charlie Morton, who stopped the bleeding for his team and averted the crisis for his planet while super rookie Randy Arozarena earned series Most Valuable Player honors with a two-run, first-inning homer — his fourth against Houston this week.
It would’ve been great to see Baker, 71, to take another shot at his first ring in 23 years of managing, and the sage skipper spoke with pride about his team’s comeback and perspective about the many recent losses he has suffered in his life, including former MLB executive Jimmie Lee Solomon (whose funeral was Saturday).
“Those are far greater losses than losing a ballgame,” Baker said.
The manager added, “One thing for sure, we’ll be back in this position next year.”
We’ll cross that bridge when we get there. For now, though? Thanks for finally getting something right, 2020. You owe us one more. Anyone have any suggestions?


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--NFL Week 6 predictions: Browns finally will win in Pittsburgh again

He is the “ Program Builder ” — first at Temple , then ...

Home team in CAPS:
Browns (+3.5) over STEELERS: Ben Roethlisberger has dominated Cleveland this century, and the visitors haven’t won in Pittsburgh since 2003 — but don’t be surprised if the Browns are finally ready for better. The Dawgs fell to the Ravens early on, but have been steaming behind Baker Mayfield and his bruised ribs, and they’re primed for another top try.
Washington (+2.5) over GIANTS: Off a horrific 2018 leg injury, it was heartening to see Alex Smith functioning under center for Washington after Kyle Allen got knocked out of the loss to the Rams this past Sunday. Allen is expected back in harness for the Football Team. Lean to the visitors here, as the Giants figure to be down off a tight loss at Dallas.
Jets (+9.5) over DOLPHINS: RB Le’Veon Bell was the leading rusher for the Jets versus Arizona this past Sunday — and was duly released after that contest. This clash was originally scheduled for later next month, but has been re-slotted here. The broad history of this rivalry has favored the visiting sides, and the market is much more than the Dolphins are used to laying.
PATRIOTS (-10) over Broncos: Brett Rypien has served under center for the Broncos — but Drew Lock is getting back to himself off injury issues, and we’re projecting Lock will start. Clock the status of Denver RB Melvin Gordon III, who was involved in a DUI rap Tuesday night. Keep tabs on injuries in a close call.
Bears (+1) over PANTHERS: Two midseason surprises clash. The hosts have come to life under QB Teddy Bridgewater, though this is no doubt the best defense Bridgewater has faced all season. The home side has snuck up on its past three victims, beating them all as underdogs. Different story here.
Lions (-3.5) over JAGUARS: Compelled to reluctantly nod toward the Lions despite their occupancy of the road-favorite role. Ever cautious about Detroit on grass, but Jags’ D is having a most difficult time getting off the field this season.
VIKINGS (-4.5) over Falcons: Atlanta reported COVID-19 issues earlier this week, though still expect game to proceed as scheduled. The winless Falcons have named Raheem Morris as head coach, after Dan Quinn was shown the door. Minnesota doesn’t have the strength of secondary they’ve enjoyed in recent seasons, but doubt the Falcons can cope with the home side’s passing attack.
TITANS (-3.5) over Texans: Short work week for the Titans, off their Tuesday night carve-up of the visiting Bills. Those who thought Tennessee would be sluggish after their lengthy COVID-19 absence got surprised. The Texans copped their first seasonal win after Romeo Crennel took command. Houston’s talented roster (Deshaun Watson, et al) has potential, but Tennessee remains an underrated item.
EAGLES (+7.5) over Ravens: The home side played the Steelers closer than the scoreboard indicated in Pittsburgh. The Eagles make you work for your yards. The visitors figure to get to Carson Wentz more than occasionally — but Wentz appears to be getting back to his best form.
Bengals (+7.5) over COLTS: Looks too easy, so will lean to Joe Burrow, but can’t get too giddy, due to his relative lack of experience compared to veteran Colts QB Philip Rivers — but Rivers often flings marginal percentage passes. Keep tabs on Indy’s public COVID-19 issues.
Packers (-1) over BUCCANEERS: You can’t dis Tom Brady in good conscience — but consider Brady is now 43 years old, and Aaron Rodgers won’t turn 37 until early December. Given the prevailing talent level, feel the Bucs secondary can be had.
Rams (-3) over 49ERS: There’ll be considerable Niners sentiment this week. No, thanks. The Rams were a relative muddle last year, staggering to a 9-7 mark, though talent suggested better. They’re healthier now. Expect the Niners will have difficulties keeping pace.
Monday Night Football
BILLS (+4) over Chiefs: Buffalo wheels back into action six days after failing to knock the Titans out of the unbeaten ranks at Nashville on Tuesday night. Kansas City is also off a loss — the defending champs failed to defend Arrowhead versus the visiting Raiders. The Bills enjoy a modest edge from tech handicapping standpoint, at market.
COWBOYS (+1.5) over Cardinals: Arizona coach Kliff Kingsbury should be thrilled with the progress of his squad, some one-third into this season. Short lay price on the Cards — but this is the visitor’s third consecutive road assignment.
Last week: 8-5.
Season: 37-31-4.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Giants favored to get first win but Redskins have star power edge

If it is true that it is always darkest before ...

Well, do they?
Do the Giants have anyone on their roster who keeps opposing coaches up at night?
Saquon Barkley, definitely, when he was healthy, which he is not. Otherwise, on offense there’s … um … wait a second … ah … we’ll get back to you.
The defense has a bunch of legitimate NFL starters, but no one who has ever been selected to a Pro Bowl — though cornerback James Bradberry is currently playing at that level.
As the winless Giants move into Sunday’s game against the 1-4 Washington Football Team, what is about to go down at MetLife Stadium can best be projected as WTF vs. WFT. Two teams, one victory.
“In terms of keeping you up at night, I think you’re just talking about impact players, and [Washington] has a lot of impact players across the board,’’ head coach Joe Judge said.
File some of this in the “pump up your opponent’’ column. But he has a point. Defensive end Chase Young, the No. 2 pick in this year’s draft: He keeps opposing offensive coaches up at night, and he is only a rookie. The other defensive end, Montez Sweat, has 10 sacks in 21 NFL games — he could make you toss and turn. Warhorse Ryan Kerrigan has 10.5 sacks in his past 11 games against the Giants, so he has disrupted sleep patterns for years.
The Giants? No one can accuse them of trying to assemble an all-star team.
“I’m very confident with everyone on our roster,’’ Judge said. “I think we have a good level of talent.
“As far as us, look, we’re not looking to make this a team full of stars. We’re not looking to make this an individuals team. This is a team. We walk in that locker room, everyone is on the same page, take the field with the same attitude. In terms of what someone thinks about our guys individually on the other side, I’m more focused on making them understand that as a team what we’re about.’’
Valuing team over self is a fine concept, but at some point a few special players must be sprinkled onto the field or else this is not going to work. The draft record late in the Jerry Reese regime was bad, and the draft record in the first three years of Dave Gettleman’s tenure is spotty, at best. Purchasing difference-makers in free agency rarely works.
This is how the Giants got here. They are favored, for the first time all season. Their quarterback situation, with Daniel Jones struggling in his second season, is far more stable (for now) than the turbulence in Washington — where Jones’ 2019 draft classmate, Dwayne Haskins, is benched (for Kyle Allen, for goodness sakes), relegated to No. 3 on the depth chart and likely headed for a trade.
The combined record of the five teams to beat the Giants is 16-8. Here is the soft touch on the schedule — a claim Washington should also make when considering the Giants. It is no coincidence savvy veterans Logan Ryan and Blake Martinez, immediately following last week’s crushing 37-34 loss to the Cowboys, stated the time for losing is over. They knew who their team had next and it was not games down the road at Seattle or Baltimore.
“I think we have that confidence every week,’’ Jones said. “We haven’t gotten the results that we would have hoped for to this point, but I think every week we go in expecting to win. We go in expecting to execute at a high level and play our game. We’re confident. Washington is a good team, they’re a good defense and they do a lot of good things.’’
Washington is not a good team. Neither are the Giants. Something’s got to give, and probably will.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Yankees killer Randy Arozarena homer fuels Rays’ Game 7 win

OK , Yankees fans , here ’ s the good news : the Astros aren ’ t ...

Randy Arozarena isn’t simply a Yankees-killer.
The Rays outfielder, who tormented the Yankees throughout the ALDS, also crushed Houston pitching during the ALCS and hit another homer in Tampa Bay’s 4-2 win in Game 7 on Saturday night.
It was his seventh homer of the postseason, a record for a rookie. Afterwards, he was named MVP of the series.
“The ball is looking good,’’ Arozarena said through an interpreter.
Arozarena’s two-run shot in the bottom of the first gave the Rays a 2-0 lead, and they never looked back.
“Randy, what he did was pretty miraculous,’’ Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash said. “I don’t have any words to describe what he’s done and what he’s meant for this team. For him to have a bat in his hands, with an opportunity for a big home run, settled a lot of people in the dugout. It certainly did me.”
The 25-year-old will now get a chance to show what he can do on the grandest stage of all, as Arozarena helped get the Rays to the World Series, where they will face the winner of Sunday’s NLCS Game 7 between the Dodgers and Braves.
Whatever team the Rays play will have their work cut out for them, as Arozarena has pounded opposing pitching throughout this year, after being called up in late August following his recovery from COVID-19.
And even before that, he hit at every level he played at a year ago in the Cardinals’ organization before St. Louis traded the Cuban-born Arozarena last offseason, prompting Houston manager Dusty Baker to wonder aloud on Friday, “I’m just trying to figure out how the Cardinals got rid of him.”
Arozarena’s postseason hot streak began in Tampa Bay’s wild-card series win over the Blue Jays, when he had four extra-base hits in two games.
That turned out to be just a prelude to what Arozarena would do against the Yankees, when he went 8-for-12 with three homers in the first three games of the ALDS before going hitless in the final two games of the series.
“Every mistake he’s gotten, he’s barreled up,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said after Game 3 of the ALDS. “We’ve got to find a way to keep him in check.”
Kyle Higashioka had a similar take after that game: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen before where a guy punishes every single mistake. We can’t get away with anything against him right now. It’s been pretty frustrating.’’
The Astros can relate.
He homered in Games 1, 4 and 5 of the ALCS and had multi-hit games in Games 2 and 3.
Then Arozarena, with one out and one on in the bottom of the first, homered off Lance McCullers Jr.
In 14 games, he’s 21-for-55 with 11 extra-base hits — including the seven homers — and an OPS of 1.288.
“I wouldn’t say I was chasing the MVP [award for the series],’’ Arozarena said. “But I’d do anything for the team.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Tom Brady vs. Aaron Rodgers: QB clash we’ve been waiting for

The Steelers are the Steelers again , because they have their ...

When we last left Tom Brady, he was losing track of what down it was at the end of a failed Buccaneers’ comeback attempt at Chicago, curiously later denying it despite video evidence for all to see.
The next task for Brady and the Buccaneers (3-2) is a home game Sunday against Aaron Rodgers and the Packers (4-0), who are coming off a bye week.
This week, Packers running back Jamaal Williams poked the bear with a playful jab at Brady while pumping up Rodgers as the better of the two quarterbacks in the game.
“I’m pretty sure my quarterback knows what fourth down is, you know what I mean?’’ Williams chirped. “Aaron Rodgers would never do that. Never.’’
Williams’ comments came after Brady thought fourth down was third down, and he tried for a low-percentage, down-the-field throw instead of going for a shorter pass to get a first down in the 20-19 loss. After the play, the cameras showed Brady looking at the referee holding up four fingers as if to say, “It’s fourth down now.’’ Except it wasn’t.
Tampa Bay coach Bruce Arians protected Brady afterward, saying, “Yeah, he knew.” And Brady stumbled through a lame explanation that maybe he shouldn’t have gone for the chunk-yardage play instead of the shorter pass, denying that he didn’t know what down it was.
It was all a rather embarrassing sequence for one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, one he’d certainly like to purge with a good performance against the undefeated Packers and Rodgers, which he has faced just twice in his career.
The 36-year-old Rodgers and 43-year-old Brady, who have a combined 37 NFL seasons and 375 regular-season games, each has one win in the head-to-head matchups, with the home team winning both times.
Brady’s ballyhooed move to the Buccaneers after 20 years in New England has produced mixed results. He’s completing just 64.3 percent of his passes for 1,375 yards with 12 touchdowns, four interceptions and a has a respectable 96.8 passer rating. But two of those picks were returned for touchdowns.
Rodgers, meanwhile, has been his usual magnificent self — having thrown for 13 TDs with no INTs, a 70.5 completion percentage, 1,214 yards and a 128.4 passer rating.
“We know what we’re up against,’’ Brady told reporters this past week. “We’re up against one of the best teams in the league.’’
And one of the best quarterbacks of all time.
“I think everybody is pretty much in awe of how he makes it look so easy,’’ Brady said of Rodgers. “There’s a lot of great things to say about his game. He’s one of the great quarterbacks to ever play the game. He’s a great passer. He’s very efficient. His touchdown-to-interception ratio — he basically doesn’t throw interceptions and throws a lot of touchdowns. His decision-making is just phenomenal.’’
Said Rodgers of Brady: “He has obviously done it at the highest of levels for so long. He’s been an icon at the position. He’s been somebody that we’ve all looked up to for so many years as the standard of excellence.’’
For his part, Rodgers has doggedly downplayed the quarterback matchup in the game, emphasizing he was playing against the Tampa Bay defense and Brady against the Green Bay defense.
“That’s how it should be viewed,” Rodgers lectured reporters on Wednesday.
Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari, however, playfully called the game “the Tampa Bay Bradys versus the Green Bay Rodgers.’’
“It’s great entertainment,’’ Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett said of the matchup. “You can’t ask for anything better than this — these two guys, going against each other. For us as coaches, as players, as fans, as reporters, I just think it’s great entertainment and a fun thing to be a part of.
“Anybody who’s a part of either organization, it’s just a great opportunity for us to watch them go at it. But for them, it’s another game. It’s just about the level they’re at.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Teofimo Lopez stuns Vasiliy Lomachenko to unify lightweight titles

LAS VEGAS — Teofimo Lopez was brash enough to challenge Vasiliy Lomachenko , and good enough to beat him .
Lopez dominated early and finished strong Saturday night to win a unanimous 12-round decision over Lomachenko to unify the lightweight titles in a fight he demanded even though some thought he wasn ’ t experienced enough .
Lopez took advantage of a slow start by Lomachenko to build up an early lead , then finished the fight with a big 12th round that left Lomachenko bloodied and beaten on the scorecards .
The 23-year-old from Brooklyn became the unified lightweight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in boxing thought he could do — outbox perhaps the best technician in boxing .
Lopez ( 16-0 ) added the three titles held by Lomachenko ( 15-2 ) to the belt he won last year to become the undisputed 135-champion .
Lopez was favored 119-109 , 117-111 and 116-112 on ringside scorecards in a bout held without fans at the MGM Grand conference center .
The Associated Press had Lopez winning 117-111 .
Lopez proved faster and stronger than the 32-year-old Lomachenko , who won two Olympic gold medals as an amateur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top pound-for-pound fighters as a pro .
Surprisingly enough , he was also the better boxer and proved he could close the show by bloodying Lomachenko ’ s eye in the 12th round .
“ I had to dig deep , man , ” ’ Lopez said .
“ I ’ m a fighter , I ’ ve got to dig in deep.
” Lomachenko , ordinarily a slow starter , was too slow this time as he gave away rounds early as he tried to figure out the style of Lopez .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the eighth round he was too far behind to come back .
“ He ’ s been in a 14-month layoff , ” ’ Lopez said .
“ I knew it was going to take him a long time to catch up.
” Lomachenko , who lost only once in nearly 400 amateur fights and had only one loss as a pro , thought he did better than the scorecards indicated .
“ Definitely I am not agreeing with the scorecards , ” ’ he said .
The fight was the biggest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been a pay-per-view event in normal times .
But with no fans it was televised on ESPN , providing boxing with a bigger showcase than it would have gotten otherwise .
Lomachenko was a 4-1 favorite but looked rusty early as he tried to solve the style of Lopez .
He threw punches only sparingly the first half of the fight , landing just 31 punches in the first seven rounds , before finally picking up the pace in the eighth round .
“ I think the first half of the fight he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the second half of the fight I took over , ” Lomachenko said .
“ I was much better.
” Punch statistics showed Lopez landed 183 of 659 punches while Lomachenko was credited with 141 of 321 .
In the 12th round Lopez outlanded Lomachenko 50 to 19 and opened up a cut that sent blood flowing down his face and prompted referee Russell Mora to stop the fight with 10 seconds left to have the ring doctor look at it before resuming .
Lopez was told by his father in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was ahead and not to risk anything .
But he came out strong and beat Lomachenko to the punch .
“ I didn ’ t know if they had him up on the scorecards or not , ” Lopez said .
Lopez did his trademark backflip in the ring after the unanimous decision was announced .
Lopez became the youngest fighter to become a four-belt champion in only his second title fight .
He had sought the fight against Lomachenko , angering the Ukrainian with his brash tactics .
“ I love to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Lopez said .
“ That ’ s what a true champion does , I go out there and find a way to win .
”

LAS VEGAS — Teofimo Lopez was brash enough to challenge Vasiliy Lomachenko, and good enough to beat him.
Lopez dominated early and finished strong Saturday night to win a unanimous 12-round decision over Lomachenko to unify the lightweight titles in a fight he demanded even though some thought he wasn’t experienced enough.
Lopez took advantage of a slow start by Lomachenko to build up an early lead, then finished the fight with a big 12th round that left Lomachenko bloodied and beaten on the scorecards. The 23-year-old from Brooklyn became the unified lightweight champion and managed to do what few in boxing thought he could do — outbox perhaps the best technician in boxing.
Lopez (16-0) added the three titles held by Lomachenko (15-2) to the belt he won last year to become the undisputed 135-champion.
Lopez was favored 119-109, 117-111 and 116-112 on ringside scorecards in a bout held without fans at the MGM Grand conference center. The Associated Press had Lopez winning 117-111.
Lopez proved faster and stronger than the 32-year-old Lomachenko, who won two Olympic gold medals as an amateur and was regarded as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters as a pro. Surprisingly enough, he was also the better boxer and proved he could close the show by bloodying Lomachenko’s eye in the 12th round.
“I had to dig deep, man,”’ Lopez said. “I’m a fighter, I’ve got to dig in deep.”
Lomachenko, ordinarily a slow starter, was too slow this time as he gave away rounds early as he tried to figure out the style of Lopez. By the time the fight got competitive in the eighth round he was too far behind to come back.
“He’s been in a 14-month layoff,”’ Lopez said. “I knew it was going to take him a long time to catch up.”
Lomachenko, who lost only once in nearly 400 amateur fights and had only one loss as a pro, thought he did better than the scorecards indicated.
“Definitely I am not agreeing with the scorecards,”’ he said.
The fight was the biggest since the pandemic began and would have been a pay-per-view event in normal times. But with no fans it was televised on ESPN, providing boxing with a bigger showcase than it would have gotten otherwise.
Lomachenko was a 4-1 favorite but looked rusty early as he tried to solve the style of Lopez. He threw punches only sparingly the first half of the fight, landing just 31 punches in the first seven rounds, before finally picking up the pace in the eighth round.
“I think the first half of the fight he got more rounds than I did but in the second half of the fight I took over,” Lomachenko said. “I was much better.”
Punch statistics showed Lopez landed 183 of 659 punches while Lomachenko was credited with 141 of 321. In the 12th round Lopez outlanded Lomachenko 50 to 19 and opened up a cut that sent blood flowing down his face and prompted referee Russell Mora to stop the fight with 10 seconds left to have the ring doctor look at it before resuming.
Lopez was told by his father in the corner before the 12th round that he was ahead and not to risk anything. But he came out strong and beat Lomachenko to the punch.
“I didn’t know if they had him up on the scorecards or not,” Lopez said.
Lopez did his trademark backflip in the ring after the unanimous decision was announced.
Lopez became the youngest fighter to become a four-belt champion in only his second title fight. He had sought the fight against Lomachenko, angering the Ukrainian with his brash tactics.
“I love to fight and I can bang too.,” Lopez said. “That’s what a true champion does, I go out there and find a way to win.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--China warns it will take Americans hostage if DOJ doesn’t drop charges against researchers

Beijing is threatening to take Americans in China hostage if the Department of Justice doesn ’ t drop its prosecution of several Chinese research scientists arrested on U.S. soil this year , according to a report on Saturday .
Chinese government officials have repeatedly warned their U.S. counterparts that Americans in China face being detained if its demands are not met , The Wall Street Journal reported , citing sources familiar with the matter .
The drastic action — dubbed “ hostage diplomacy ” — would be in retaliation for the arrests of at least five Chinese military-affiliated scholars visiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scientists were charged with visa fraud for allegedly lying to U.S. immigration authorities about their active duty statuses with China ’ s People ’ s Liberation Army .
The nation first began issuing the warnings over the summer , after Chinese research scientist Juan Tang , who worked at the University of California , Davis , was questioned by the FBI and took up residence for a month in China ’ s San Francisco consulate .
Chinese officials vowed to retaliate if she wasn ’ t allowed to leave the consulate and return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. officials expected China to make good on the threat — but it didn ’ t , and the FBI arrested Tang in July when she left consulate grounds , the Journal reported .
Tang is currently out on bail after pleading not guilty to visa fraud charges .
Her lawyer , Malcolm Segal , denied that China had sought to interfere in his client ’ s case .
At least four other researchers have been accused of hiding their ties to the Chinese military and pleaded not guilty to similar charges .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to close its Houston consulate and told all Chinese military researchers remaining in the U.S. to leave .
Sources told the Journal the decision was made after U.S. officials said Chinese diplomats were coordinating with the scholars to collect cutting-edge scientific research from American universities .
A State Department spokesman declined to address China ’ s alleged threats but told the newspaper , “ We warn U.S. citizens that business disputes , court orders to pay a settlement , or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may result in an exit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China until the issue is resolved.
” “ We are aware that the Chinese government has , in other instances , detained American , Canadian and other individuals without legal basis to retaliate against lawful prosecutions and to exert pressure on their governments , with a callous disregard of the individuals involved , ” said John Demers , head of the Justice Department ’ s national security division .
“ If China wants to be seen as one of the world ’ s leading nations , it should respect the rule of law @ @ @ @ @ @

Beijing is threatening to take Americans in China hostage if the Department of Justice doesn’t drop its prosecution of several Chinese research scientists arrested on US soil this year, according to a report Saturday.
Chinese government officials have repeatedly warned their US counterparts that Americans in China face being detained if its demands are not met, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.
The drastic action — dubbed “hostage diplomacy” — would be in retaliation for the arrests of at least five Chinese military-affiliated scholars visiting American universities to conduct research.
The scientists were charged with visa fraud for allegedly lying to US immigration authorities about their active-duty statuses with China’s People’s Liberation Army.
The nation first began issuing the warnings over the summer, after Chinese research scientist Juan Tang, who worked at the University of California, Davis, was questioned by the FBI and took up residence for a month in China’s San Francisco consulate.
Chinese officials vowed to retaliate if she wasn’t allowed to leave the consulate and return home, according to the report.
US officials expected China to make good on the threat — but it didn’t, and the FBI arrested Tang in July when she left consulate grounds, the Journal reported.
Tang is currently out on bail after pleading not guilty to visa fraud charges. Her lawyer, Malcolm Segal, denied that China had sought to interfere in his client’s case.
At least four other researchers have been accused of hiding their ties to the Chinese military and pleaded not guilty to similar charges.
The State Department ordered China in July to close its Houston consulate and told all Chinese military researchers remaining in the US to leave.
Sources told the Journal the decision was made after US officials said Chinese diplomats were coordinating with the scholars to collect cutting-edge scientific research from American universities.
A State Department spokesman declined to address China’s alleged threats but told the newspaper, “We warn US citizens that business disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may result in an exit ban which will prohibit your departure from China until the issue is resolved.”
“We are aware that the Chinese government has, in other instances, detained American, Canadian and other individuals without legal basis to retaliate against lawful prosecutions and to exert pressure on their governments, with a callous disregard of the individuals involved,” said John Demers, head of the Justice Department’s national security division.
“If China wants to be seen as one of the world’s leading nations, it should respect the rule of law and stop taking hostages.”


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Jets not giving up hope for Chris Herndon breakthrough

Chris Herndon is a man searching for answers right now .
The Jets ’ third-year tight end entered this season with big expectations .
Instead , he has been plagued by drops and had a critical fumble .
He has 13 catches for 98 yards and has not scored a touchdown yet .
“ You think you ’ re locked in and whatnot , and you watch film and see the simple mistakes that you made , ” Herndon said .
“ A lot of it is just self-inflicted .
So , for me , personally , I need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You know , every detail and every assignment , just go out there and play free.
” Herndon has not been able to do that yet .
The Jets started Ryan Griffin over Herndon last week , but Herndon still played a lot ( 42 percent of the snaps ) against the Cardinals .
He had another bad drop , something that keeps happening .
“ Look the ball in first , tuck it and get north after that , ” Herndon said of the potential touchdown against Arizona .
“ It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to focus in and try not to make the big play before I make the play .
First , I ’ ve got to catch the ball.
” Head coach Adam Gase had a long sit-down with Herndon this week , trying to ease his mind and rebuild his confidence .
“ We ’ ve had a lot of discussions with him about playing it one play at a time , and whatever happens on the previous play — whether it ’ s good or bad — just move on to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We just keep trying to get him in the mode of playing as fast as he possibly can play .
Not overthinking , not worrying about what the end result ’ s going to be .
“ Just play fast , run fast and do what you ’ ve done and what we ’ ve seen him do in the past.
” Herndon had a strong training camp after missing all but one game last season because of injuries and a suspension .
That raised expectations he would have a monster year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up on him yet .
“ I feel like this is really one of those things where , if he just gets that one play where he gets going , ” Gase said , “ that could be a good snowball effect for him.
” The Jets activated LB Blake Cashman and WR Vyncint Smith off injured reserve .
They also elevated QB Mike White from the practice squad to serve as Joe Flacco ’ s backup .
They released S Marqui Christian to clear a roster spot .

Chris Herndon is a man searching for answers right now.
The Jets’ third-year tight end entered this season with big expectations. Instead, he has been plagued by drops and had a critical fumble. He has 13 catches for 98 yards and has not scored a touchdown yet.
“You think you’re locked in and whatnot, and you watch film and see the simple mistakes that you made,” Herndon said. “A lot of it is just self-inflicted. So, for me, personally, I need to lock in some more on details. You know, every detail and every assignment, just go out there and play free.”
Herndon has not been able to do that yet. The Jets started Ryan Griffin over Herndon last week, but Herndon still played a lot (42 percent of the snaps) against the Cardinals. He had another bad drop, something that keeps happening.
“Look the ball in first, tuck it and get north after that,” Herndon said of the potential touchdown against Arizona. “It’s just another instance of where I need to focus in and try not to make the big play before I make the play. First, I’ve got to catch the ball.”
Head coach Adam Gase had a long sit-down with Herndon this week, trying to ease his mind and rebuild his confidence.
“We’ve had a lot of discussions with him about playing it one play at a time, and whatever happens on the previous play — whether it’s good or bad — just move on to the next one,” Gase said. “We just keep trying to get him in the mode of playing as fast as he possibly can play. Not overthinking, not worrying about what the end result’s going to be.
“Just play fast, run fast and do what you’ve done and what we’ve seen him do in the past.”
Herndon had a strong training camp after missing all but one game last season because of injuries and a suspension. That raised expectations he would have a monster year. Gase is not ready to give up on him yet.
“I feel like this is really one of those things where, if he just gets that one play where he gets going,” Gase said, “that could be a good snowball effect for him.”
The Jets activated LB Blake Cashman and WR Vyncint Smith off injured reserve. They also elevated QB Mike White from the practice squad to serve as Joe Flacco’s backup. They released S Marqui Christian to clear a roster spot.


newyorkpost--2020-10-18--Dodgers’ Kenley Jansen returning to All-Star form at perfect time

Kenley Jansen ’ s rebound couldn ’ t be occurring at a better time for the Dodgers .
For a second straight game , the former All-Star closer was untouchable in the ninth inning .
On Saturday he retired the side in order , recording the save in the Dodgers ’ 3-1 victory over the Braves in Game 6 of the NLCS in Arlington , Texas .
A night earlier , the previously struggling Jansen struck out the side in a non-save situation .
“ Two huge outings , not only for us but for him personally , ” Justin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the confidence he has attacking guys and that is the Kenley Jansen we all know and love.
” Before the game , Jansen said he didn ’ t care when he is summoned to pitch .
In Game 3 , he had been used in a mop-up role in the sixth inning after the Dodgers had blown open the game .
“ There ain ’ t no role in the playoffs , ” Jansen said .
“ It ’ s when can you be in the best position to help your team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a long time now and there ’ s nothing else , but to have a ring here for this organization , to accomplish , that is the last thing I feel we need to accomplish here .
We want it for everyone .
The fans deserve it and it ’ s about winning a championship here.
” Corey Seager ’ s fifth homer of the series set a NLCS record .
The shortstop entered play among a list of players , including Giancarlo Stanton ( 2020 ) , Nelson Cruz ( 2011 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and Jim Thome ( 1999 ) , who had produced at least four homers and 10 RBIs in a postseason series .
Tony Gonsolin will be a significant part of the Dodgers ’ pitching plans for Game 7 , but manager Dave Roberts wouldn ’ t commit to him as the starter , meaning the team could deploy an opener .
Gonsolin allowed five earned runs over 4 ¹/₃ innings in Game 2 .
“ You could tell I was getting a little bit tired , ” said Gonsolin , who hadn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that outing .
“ My sharpness definitely wasn ’ t there.
” Ian Anderson will get the start on full rest for the Braves .

Kenley Jansen’s rebound couldn’t be occurring at a better time for the Dodgers.
For a second straight game, the former All-Star closer was untouchable in the ninth inning. On Saturday he retired the side in order, recording the save in the Dodgers’ 3-1 victory over the Braves in Game 6 of the NLCS in Arlington, Texas.
A night earlier, the previously struggling Jansen struck out the side in a non-save situation.
“Two huge outings, not only for us but for him personally,” Justin Turner said. “You can just see the confidence he has attacking guys and that is the Kenley Jansen we all know and love.”
Before the game, Jansen said he didn’t care when he is summoned to pitch. In Game 3, he had been used in a mop-up role in the sixth inning after the Dodgers had blown open the game.
“There ain’t no role in the playoffs,” Jansen said. “It’s when can you be in the best position to help your team win.
“I have been here for a long time now and there’s nothing else, but to have a ring here for this organization, to accomplish, that is the last thing I feel we need to accomplish here. We want it for everyone. The fans deserve it and it’s about winning a championship here.”
Corey Seager’s fifth homer of the series set a NLCS record. The shortstop entered play among a list of players, including Giancarlo Stanton (2020), Nelson Cruz (2011), B.J. Upton (2008) and Jim Thome (1999), who had produced at least four homers and 10 RBIs in a postseason series.
Tony Gonsolin will be a significant part of the Dodgers’ pitching plans for Game 7, but manager Dave Roberts wouldn’t commit to him as the starter, meaning the team could deploy an opener. Gonsolin allowed five earned runs over 4 ¹/₃ innings in Game 2.
“You could tell I was getting a little bit tired,” said Gonsolin, who hadn’t pitched in 17 days before that outing. “My sharpness definitely wasn’t there.”
Ian Anderson will get the start on full rest for the Braves.