newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Trump, White House will be offered COVID vaccine within days, report says

Ohio police say their search for two 15-year-old runaway girls has ...

President Trump and other top White House officials will be offered Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine within the next few days, according to a report on Sunday.
Key government staffers will have the option to take the newly-approved shot as soon as Monday, Bloomberg reported.
“The American people should have confidence that they are receiving the same safe and effective vaccine as senior officials of the United States government,” National Security Council spokesman John Ullyot told the outlet.
Officials have recommended that healthcare workers and nursing home residents be first in line for the shot.
It’s unclear how many doses — the first of which shipped from a Pfizer facility in Michigan on Sunday — are being allocated to the White House, and who exactly will be getting vaccinated.
The New York Times reported that West Wing staff who work closely with Trump were told that they had been scheduled to receive the vax soon.
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The vaccinations are part of an effort to stop more government officials from contracting COVID-19, with the goal being for all White House employees to eventually be immunized, the report said.
Essential personnel in all three branches of government will have the option to get the injection, according to Bloomberg, which said the shots would be staggered over the next 10 days to ensure staff don’t experience possible side effects all at the same time.
The West Wing has seen dozens of coronavirus infections, including the president, the first lady, their son Barron, press secretary Kayleigh McEnany and most recently, chief of staff Mark Meadows.


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Search for Ohio girls finds one in California, other dead in Nevada

Ohio police say their search for two 15-year-old runaway girls has ended with one ’ s safe return after being found in California and the other ’ s tragic death in Nevada .
The girl who died was identified as Kathryn McGuire .
Painesville police had been searching for her and her friend Haylie Vance since Thanksgiving .
In a Facebook post Saturday , police said it was with “ great sadness ” they were reporting Kathryn ’ s death .
Police said they were notified that Kathryn had been brought to Dignity Health Saint Rose Hospital in Henderson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she was pronounced dead at the hospital.
” The post also said Haylie had been found safe Dec. 4 by police with the Long Beach Police Department in California .
It added that Haylie confirmed to police that she and Kathryn left Ohio voluntarily and drove to California with a 19-year-old man from Painesville , Aaron Larkin .
Larkin had been with Kathryn in Nevada and was being detained by the Henderson Police Department as it conducted an investigation into her death , Painesville police said .
He has not been charged with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was told by the Clark County Coroner ’ s Office that the girl ’ s cause of death would not be released before Monday .
Kathryn ’ s mother had been keeping friends updated on the search for her daughter and Haylie on social media but hadn ’ t posted any updates since Dec. 3 , the station reported .
In the posts she begged Kathryn to come home , according to the station .
She also expressed concern about her daughter ’ s heart condition .

Ohio police say their search for two 15-year-old runaway girls has ended with one’s safe return after being found in California and the other’s tragic death in Nevada.
The girl who died was identified as Kathryn McGuire.
Painesville police had been searching for her and her friend Haylie Vance since Thanksgiving.
In a Facebook post Saturday, police said it was with “great sadness” they were reporting Kathryn’s death.
Police said they were notified that Kathryn had been brought to Dignity Health Saint Rose Hospital in Henderson, Nevada, last Tuesday and that “she was pronounced dead at the hospital.”
The post also said Haylie had been found safe Dec. 4 by police with the Long Beach Police Department in California.
It added that Haylie confirmed to police that she and Kathryn left Ohio voluntarily and drove to California with a 19-year-old man from Painesville, Aaron Larkin.
Larkin had been with Kathryn in Nevada and was being detained by the Henderson Police Department as it conducted an investigation into her death, Painesville police said. He has not been charged with any crime.
It’s unclear how Kathryn died.
WOIO-TV reported Sunday that it was told by the Clark County Coroner’s Office that the girl’s cause of death would not be released before Monday.
Kathryn’s mother had been keeping friends updated on the search for her daughter and Haylie on social media but hadn’t posted any updates since Dec. 3, the station reported.
In the posts she begged Kathryn to come home, according to the station. She also expressed concern about her daughter’s heart condition.


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Bill Cowher responds to Jets’ coaching rumblings

A few days after suddenly emerging as a potential Jets head-coaching candidate , Bill Cowher said he doesn ’ t plan on throwing his hat in the ring .
“ I have no interest in coaching , ” the Hall of Famer told ESPN in a report published Sunday .
“ I have too much respect for the coaching profession to talk about a job that isn ’ t open .
From that perspective , any job that is open , I have no interest in coaching.
” While it is uncommon for coaches to publicly campaign for a job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Esiason hinted last week that the former Steelers coach and his CBS colleague could make a run at the Jets this offseason .
The 0-13 Jets are expected to fire head coach Adam Gase once the season ends .
“ He ’ s the one that told me the Jets job is going to be really attractive , and they could hire whomever they want , ” Esiason said on WFAN of Cowher , who hasn ’ t coached since 2006 .
“ He told me he loves [ GM ] Joe Douglas.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ wife was a big Jets fan and that the 63-year-old was watching highlights of his coaching days .
“ Is he sending a message ?
I ’ ve worked with him for 14 years , and I ’ ve never seen that , ” Esiason said .
Cowher was linked to the Jets in 2009 before they hired Rex Ryan and was also a candidate for the Dolphins ’ job three years later .
He won a Super Bowl with Pittsburgh to cap the 2005 season , and served as head coach there @ @ @ @

A few days after emerging as a potential Jets head-coaching candidate, Bill Cowher said he doesn’t plan on throwing his hat in the ring.
“I have no interest in coaching,” the Hall of Famer told ESPN in a report published Sunday. “I have too much respect for the coaching profession to talk about a job that isn’t open. From that perspective, any job that is open, I have no interest in coaching.”
While it is uncommon for coaches to publicly campaign for a job that isn’t open, Boomer Esiason hinted last week that his CBS colleague could make a run at the Jets this offseason.
The 0-13 Jets are expected to fire head coach Adam Gase once the season ends.
“He’s the one that told me the Jets job is going to be really attractive, and they could hire whomever they want,” Esiason said on WFAN of Cowher, who hasn’t coached since 2006, following a 15-year stint with the Steelers. “He told me he loves [GM] Joe Douglas.”
Bill Cowher Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Esiason also said Cowher’s wife was a big Jets fan and that the 63-year-old was watching highlights of his coaching days.
“Is he sending a message? I’ve worked with him for 14 years, and I’ve never seen that,” Esiason said.
Cowher was linked to the Jets in 2009 before they hired Rex Ryan and was also a candidate for the Dolphins’ job three years later. He won a Super Bowl with Pittsburgh to cap the 2005 season.


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Manhattan’s office leasing taking a dive

Amid intensifying calls to convert some older Manhattan office buildings to residential — including by the influential Real Estate Board of New York — comes even more grim news about the pandemic-battered market .
It ’ s scary to think about , but Manhattan ’ s office-leasing picture is worsening by the month .
The large , spirits-lifting deals signed in the spring and summer for AIG , TikTok and Facebook seem a distant memory .
CBRE ’ s latest activity report found that year-to-date leasing of 11.87 million square feet was down 58 percent over last year .
Things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when leasing totaled a mere 482,000 square feet — a staggering 78 percent below the five-year monthly average of 2.16 million square feet .
The pitiably puny numbers broke the record for lowest monthly leasing for the third time this year .
“ I wouldn ’ t say it ’ s free-fall , but it ’ s a lot worse than just an adjustment , ” said a broker who wisely didn ’ t want to be named .
He quickly added , “ We ’ ll recover , but it won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CBRE report ’ s other highlights , if they may be called that : • Continued negative absorption pushed Manhattan availability to 14.8 percent , compared with 11.1 percent in November 2019 .
• Suffering Midtown South and downtown saw November ’ s five-year monthly average off by 94 and 90 percent , respectively .
• In Midtown , sublease additions to the market drove a decline in asking rents down to $ 83.07 per square foot , versus $ 84.16 in October and $ 87.03 in November 2019 .
The largest new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ square feet by S & P Global at 55 Water St. downtown .
Not so bleak on Bleecker There are nuggets of good news even in the worst of times .
There was much scoffing when Brookfield Properties bought seven Bleecker Street storefronts in four buildings between West 10th and West 11th streets for $ 31 million in 2018 .
At the time , Bleecker was struggling to recover from a blight of empty stores , including five of the ones Brookfield bought .
The developer tapped its creative team to enliven the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the name Love , Bleecker .
Tenants soon followed .
Now six of the shops are filled , and a deal is near for the seventh .
In the latest signed leases , global design shop Arc ’ teryx launched a boutique with almost 5,000 square feet on two levels at 367 Bleecker St. , while modern-jewelry brand Tarin Thomas will soon open its first brick-and-mortar shop at 92 Perry St. Brookfield ’ s senior VP for retail leasing called Arc ’ teryx and Tarin Thomas “ exciting , growing brands that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unique retail corridor in a major way.
” Renaissance Properties is enjoying a leasing mini-spree at its atmospheric Manhattan office buildings .
The company , headed by father-and-son owners Ken and Bradley Fishel , has inked 16 new deals so far this year .
At its flagship , 12-story 632 Broadway in Noho , new arrivals will soon include an unidentified fintech firm for 15,323 square feet and tech firm Automattic for 11,500 square feet .
The 1897-vintage loft-style property , which is 80 percent leased , is also home to Serengeti Asset @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from $ 32 per square foot on low floors and $ 69 per square foot on higher floors .
The 150,000-square-foot property has a private tenants ’ rooftop .
It also boasts assets that are appealing to pandemic-era tenants : two lobbies to help control the flow of people , and large , wood-framed windows to let in fresh air .
“ These buildings were designed to provide fresh air in a time before air-conditioning , ” Bradley Fishel noted .
“ Buildings of this vintage , unlike modern buildings , create cross-ventilation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that tenants feel safe.
” Some 32,000 square feet were also leased at Renaissance ’ s Midtown properties at 264 W. 40th St. and 62 W. 45th St .
Trusted Media Brands is moving from SL Green ’ s 750 Third Ave. to the same landlord ’ s 485 Lexington Ave .
The nearly 15,000-square-foot lease is good news for the tenant and for SL Green , but has special meaning for JLL Vice Chairmen Matthew Astrachan and Mitch Konsker .
The power brokers have represented Trusted Media Brands for 36 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brands , including Reader ’ s Digest and Taste of Home .
It spans multiple digital platforms , such as social media , magazines and books .
The company wanted to stay in the SLG portfolio but was seeing a direct lease rather than a sublet , such as it had at 750 Third .
The Lexington Avenue floor moreover boasted a prebuilt unit “ that checked a lot of boxes for us , ” Trusted Media CFO Dean Durbin said .
“ In addition , SL Green has changed some maintenance procedures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to the office.
” The landlord was repped by a JLL team that included Paul Glickman and Jonathan Fanuzzi .

Amid intensifying calls to convert some older Manhattan office buildings to residential — including by the influential Real Estate Board of New York — comes even more grim news about the pandemic-battered market.
It’s scary to think about, but Manhattan’s office-leasing picture is worsening by the month. The large, spirits-lifting deals signed in the spring and summer for AIG, TikTok and Facebook seem a distant memory.
CBRE’s latest activity report found that year-to-date leasing of 11.87 million square feet was down 58 percent over last year. Things took an even darker turn in November, when leasing totaled a mere 482,000 square feet — a staggering 78 percent below the five-year monthly average of 2.16 million square feet.
The pitiably puny numbers broke the record for lowest monthly leasing for the third time this year. “I wouldn’t say it’s free-fall, but it’s a lot worse than just an adjustment,” said a broker who wisely didn’t want to be named. He quickly added, “We’ll recover, but it won’t be overnight.”
Among the CBRE report’s other highlights, if they may be called that:
Continued negative absorption pushed Manhattan availability to 14.8 percent, compared with 11.1 percent in November 2019.
Suffering Midtown South and downtown saw November’s five-year monthly average off by 94 and 90 percent, respectively.
In Midtown, sublease additions to the market drove a decline in asking rents down to $83.07 per square foot, versus $84.16 in October and $87.03 in November 2019. The largest new block of Manhattan sublease space was 206,000 square feet by S&P Global at 55 Water St. downtown.
Not so bleak on Bleecker
There are nuggets of good news even in the worst of times.
There was much scoffing when Brookfield Properties bought seven Bleecker Street storefronts in four buildings between West 10th and West 11th streets for $31 million in 2018. At the time, Bleecker was struggling to recover from a blight of empty stores, including five of the ones Brookfield bought.
The developer tapped its creative team to enliven the block with arts and cultural programming under the name Love, Bleecker. Tenants soon followed. Now six of the shops are filled, and a deal is near for the seventh.
In the latest signed leases, global design shop Arc’teryx launched a boutique with almost 5,000 square feet on two levels at 367 Bleecker St., while modern-jewelry brand Tarin Thomas will soon open its first brick-and-mortar shop at 92 Perry St.
Brookfield’s senior VP for retail leasing called Arc’teryx and Tarin Thomas “exciting, growing brands that will contribute to the ongoing revitalization of this unique retail corridor in a major way.”
Renaissance in Noho
Renaissance Properties is enjoying a leasing mini-spree at its atmospheric Manhattan office buildings. The company, headed by father-and-son owners Ken and Bradley Fishel, has inked 16 new deals so far this year.
At its flagship, 12-story 632 Broadway in Noho, new arrivals will soon include an unidentified fintech firm for 15,323 square feet and tech firm Automattic for 11,500 square feet. The 1897-vintage loft-style property, which is 80 percent leased, is also home to Serengeti Asset Management and Tumblr. Asking rents range from $32 per square foot on low floors and $69 per square foot on higher floors.
The 150,000-square-foot property has a private tenants’ rooftop. It also boasts assets that are appealing to pandemic-era tenants: two lobbies to help control the flow of people, and large, wood-framed windows to let in fresh air.
“These buildings were designed to provide fresh air in a time before air-conditioning,” Bradley Fishel noted. “Buildings of this vintage, unlike modern buildings, create cross-ventilation. The most important thing right now is that tenants feel safe.”
Some 32,000 square feet were also leased at Renaissance’s Midtown properties at 264 W. 40th St. and 62 W. 45th St.
A ‘Trusted’ location
Trusted Media Brands is moving from SL Green’s 750 Third Ave. to the same landlord’s 485 Lexington Ave. The nearly 15,000-square-foot lease is good news for the tenant and for SL Green, but has special meaning for JLL Vice Chairmen Matthew Astrachan and Mitch Konsker. The power brokers have represented Trusted Media Brands for 36 years.
Trusted Media is home to iconic brands, including Reader’s Digest and Taste of Home. It spans multiple digital platforms, such as social media, magazines and books.
The company wanted to stay in the SLG portfolio but was seeing a direct lease rather than a sublet, such as it had at 750 Third. The Lexington Avenue floor moreover boasted a prebuilt unit “that checked a lot of boxes for us,” Trusted Media CFO Dean Durbin said. “In addition, SL Green has changed some maintenance procedures and protocols to address concerns for returning back to the office.”
The landlord was repped by a JLL team that included Paul Glickman and Jonathan Fanuzzi.


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Giants report card: Joe Judge makes questionable decision

Grading the Giants after Sunday ’ s 26-7 loss to the Cardinals .
Was Daniel Jones ( 11 of 21 , 127 yards ) ready to play on his right hamstring ?
He never ran and looked stiff in the pocket .
He fumbled three times , losing one .
It did not help he almost never had anyone running free and that is a recurring problem .
Eight sacks allowed ( two on Colt McCoy ) and did anyone get a glove on LB Haason Reddick ( five sacks , three forced fumbles ) ?
This was regression from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sacks were the result of coverage down the field .
Running game ( 78 yards ) was not good , but only 17 attempts , which is terrible .
Such as : Wayne Gallman ( 12-57 ) .
Too many contested grabs ( and non-grabs ) for Golden Tate ( 1-39 ) , Sterling Shepard ( 3-35 ) and Darius Slayton ( 3-31 ) .
TE Evan Engram ( 2-18 ) was no factor .
Getting 10 first downs and 159 total yards is rinky-dink stuff .
Gallant first half , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guys wore down in the second half .
Chasing around Kyler Murray is exhausting .
He went 24 of 35 for 244 yards ( 1 TD ) passing and 13-47 rushing .
Kenyan Drake ( 23-80 ) was consistent on the ground .
It seemed as if the secondary was doing a good job on DeAndre Hopkins and then you look up and he has nine receptions for 136 yards .
The usually-stout run defense was gouged for 159 yards .
CB James Bradberry got his NFL-high 17th pass breakup in the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end zone to complete the goal-line stand .
DT Dalvin Tomlinson dragged down Murray for a 13-yard sack , not an easy thing to do .
It was the only sack for the Giants .
Blake Martinez was able to play despite a back issue but there were not enough answers , especially after halftime .
Where the heck was Dion Lewis going in the second quarter , taking the ball out from the goal line on a kick return that resulted in a Lewis fumble on the Giants 21-yard line ?
Bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more bad coverage : Gunner C.J .
Board took a dive and missed Christian Kirk on a 24-yard punt return .
Later , Kirk had a 17-yard return and then an 18-yard return .
Way too much .
Riley Dixon had difficulties with his directional kicking and his 51-yard punt late in the second quarter rolled into the end zone for a touchback .
This unit has to get its stuff together .
This was the first look at a Joe Judge team after a huge upset victory and the sight was unsightly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to start Jones ?
Jones clearly was not 100 percent and did not look at if he could put a winning product on the field .
If this is what Jason Garrett ’ s offense looks like with an immobile quarterback , it is not pretty .
Third-and-one deep shot to Shepard , a pass with little chance of success ?
What happened to power football ?
Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham decided not to have Bradberry shadow Hopkins all over the field and Hopkins no doubt enjoyed that .
Thomas McGaughey ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the place and the breakdowns in coverage need to stop , pronto .

Grading the Giants after Sunday’s 26-7 loss to the Cardinals.
Offense
Was Daniel Jones (11 of 21, 127 yards) ready to play on his right hamstring? He never ran and looked stiff in the pocket. He fumbled three times, losing one. It did not help he almost never had anyone running free and that is a recurring problem. Eight sacks allowed (two on Colt McCoy) and did anyone get a glove on LB Haason Reddick (five sacks, three forced fumbles)? This was regression from the offensive line, but several of the sacks were the result of coverage down the field. Running game (78 yards) was not good, but only 17 attempts, which is terrible. Such as: Wayne Gallman (12-57). Too many contested grabs (and non-grabs) for Golden Tate (1-39), Sterling Shepard (3-35) and Darius Slayton (3-31). TE Evan Engram (2-18) was no factor. Getting 10 first downs and 159 total yards is rinky-dink stuff.
Grade: F
Defense
Gallant first half, including a wonderful goal-line stand, but these guys wore down in the second half. Chasing around Kyler Murray is exhausting. He went 24 of 35 for 244 yards (1 TD) passing and 13-47 rushing. Kenyan Drake (23-80) was consistent on the ground. It seemed as if the secondary was doing a good job on DeAndre Hopkins and then you look up and he has nine receptions for 136 yards. The usually-stout run defense was gouged for 159 yards. CB James Bradberry got his NFL-high 17th pass breakup in the first quarter, denying the Cardinals in the end zone to complete the goal-line stand. DT Dalvin Tomlinson dragged down Murray for a 13-yard sack, not an easy thing to do. It was the only sack for the Giants. Blake Martinez was able to play despite a back issue but there were not enough answers, especially after halftime.
Grade: C
Joe Judge Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Special Teams
Where the heck was Dion Lewis going in the second quarter, taking the ball out from the goal line on a kick return that resulted in a Lewis fumble on the Giants 21-yard line? Bad decision, worse execution. There was more bad coverage: Gunner C.J. Board took a dive and missed Christian Kirk on a 24-yard punt return. Later, Kirk had a 17-yard return and then an 18-yard return. Way too much. Riley Dixon had difficulties with his directional kicking and his 51-yard punt late in the second quarter rolled into the end zone for a touchback. This unit has to get its stuff together.
Grade: D
Coaching
This was the first look at a Joe Judge team after a huge upset victory and the sight was unsightly. Can we question Judge’s decision to start Jones? Jones clearly was not 100 percent and did not look at if he could put a winning product on the field. If this is what Jason Garrett’s offense looks like with an immobile quarterback, it is not pretty. Third-and-one deep shot to Shepard, a pass with little chance of success? What happened to power football? Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham decided not to have Bradberry shadow Hopkins all over the field and Hopkins no doubt enjoyed that. Thomas McGaughey’s special teams unit is leaking all over the place and the breakdowns in coverage need to stop, pronto.
Grade: C


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--The Federal Reserve emergency-lending program deserved to die

The state-controlled Metropolitan Transportation Authority has a lot of problems ...

Last week, Democrats accused Team Trump of acting like sore losers in ending a $500 billion emergency-lending program for states and cities before Joe Biden takes office. Whatever the White House’s motives, it’s time to shut down this program. More borrowing can’t fix its broke beneficiaries, not least the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
In March, when Congress passed the CARES Act, lawmakers and the president were justified in approving federal lending to states and cities. Private lenders feared that tax revenues would plummet, making it harder for states and cities to repay their existing debt. They thus demanded double the pre-pandemic interest rate on the average municipal bond, to make up for the additional risk.
But since then, municipal-bond markets have calmed down. Rates are lower than ever.
Why? First, the Federal Reserve has cut overall interest rates to record lows, meaning everyone, including states and cities, can borrow for cheaper. Second, the $2 trillion in aid to unemployed Americans and small businesses worked, keeping consumer spending stable. Add the fact that relatively few white-collar workers, who pay the most in income taxes, have lost their jobs.
The result: a smaller state tax loss than many predicted. According to the Urban Institute, from April to September, states lost an average of 5.3 percent of their tax revenue, or $27.3 billion.
Considering that the CARES Act provided $150 billion in grants — no need to pay back! — to states and localities, most could muddle through. If they were to borrow for day-to-day expenses — as opposed to long-term capital investments, the normal reason for borrowing — the biggest impediment isn’t high interest rates in bond markets. Rather, it’s state constitutions that prohibit such debt.
So why did the CARES Act authorize the half a trillion dollars in Fed lending directly to state and local government entities?
It’s simple: A few states were in a lot of trouble before COVID-19. Make that one state: Illinois.
Even before the pandemic, Illinois had a near-junk credit rating, making it barely eligible to issue debt. The state’s biggest problem is that for decades, it promised pension benefits to government workers that it could never pay. Its pension debt is nearly $150 billion, nearly four times the size of the state budget.
Illinois can’t borrow in private markets, not at interest rates it can pay. So it has borrowed $1.2 billion from the Fed’s emergency program and will borrow another $2 billion before President Trump shuts it down. Yes, Illinois must pay a penalty interest rate, under the Fed’s program guidelines, more than 3 percent annually, when the market rate for healthy states is well below 1 percent.
Yet this form of payday lending has hardly instilled market discipline. Illinois hasn’t taken any concrete steps to cut spending.
The Fed debt comes due in a couple of years. Does anyone think the situation will be fixed then?
After Illinois, the Fed’s only payday-lending customer is . . . New York’s MTA.
The state-controlled authority is hardly a paragon of fiscal virtue. But its COVID problem is entirely different from Illinois’: The pandemic has killed ridership. Subway ridership is below 30 percent of normal. So billions of dollars in fares have disappeared. The MTA, too, has borrowed $3.4 billion from the Fed.
Yet it, too, must pay a penalty rate. If the point is to help public entities through a crisis they didn’t create, why punish the MTA with a high interest rate? By 2023, when the MTA’s debt comes due, it plans to take out more debt to repay the Fed — and will owe $150 million in annual interest on these bonds, for decades.
What if ridership is nowhere near normal? That’s billions that could have gone toward subway and bus service.
The Fed’s program served its purpose, in tamping down a temporary crisis in bond markets. But for specific cases, it misses the mark. A broke state like Illinois needs to cut its budget. Transit agencies missing their passengers need grants, not more debt. And yes, the MTA needs to reform its labor practices — something the Fed program doesn’t achieve.
Congress needs to decide that saving big-city transit is worth it. Debt may keep transit on life support, but the last thing New York needs in 2023 is an MTA on life support.
Nicole Gelinas is a contributing editor of City Journal.
Twitter: @NicoleGelinas


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--Teresa Giudice kisses boyfriend Luis ‘Louie’ Ruelas during NYC date night

She 's taking her time when it comes to love .

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Teresa Giudice is smitten with boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas.
Over the weekend, the “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star, 48, enjoyed a date night with businessman Ruelas in New York, where they dined at the 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.
Clad in a black coat, dark slacks and dark pink boots, Giudice held hands with Ruelas, 46, who opted for a purple jacket, a black shirt and black pants. While the pair also sported colorful face masks, they did remove them for a kiss.
In November, a source told Page Six that Giudice and Ruelas were taking the budding romance “very slow.”
“It’s new,” the source said. “They are taking things very slow. They are both happy. Right now it’s very low-key and casual. One step at a time.”
Giudice is the mom of four daughters with ex-husband Joe Giudice, whiles Ruelas has two children of his own.
The Giudices separated in December 2019 after 20 years of marriage, and their divorce was finalized in September.
Previous 1 of 14 Next Advertisement Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Advertisement Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Advertisement Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Advertisement Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas @LionsShareNews Teresa Giudice and boyfriend Luis “Louie” Ruelas wore heart-print face masks for their date night in New York. @LionsShareNews Advertisement
Joe is living in his native Italy following a messy deportation battle. He previously served a 41-month prison sentence for fraud, while Teresa spent 11.5 months behind bars.


newyorkpost--2020-12-13--NY’s ‘leaders’ are driving us insane with back and forth over school closings

Bad enough parents must play Red Light , Green Light on kids ’ in-person learning ; worse , the rules of the game are unclear , ever-changing and set sometimes by Mayor de Blasio , sometimes by Gov .
Cuomo — two officials who are rarely on the same page .
Families are now again wondering : Are their kids ’ schools about to close down for the umpteenth time — after reopening just last Monday ?
And what does it depend on ?
Out of some 850 schools that opened the first week , 19 schools had closed for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Staten Island school that was shuttered before it even opened .
And the governor has been imposing new restrictions , as COVID cases and hospitalizations climb .
Back in July , Cuomo set an arbitrary 9 percent positivity-rate threshold for closing schools statewide .
Tuesday , Mayor de Blasio said he believes that rule is still in effect .
So if COVID trends continue , new school closures may be on tap .
Yet the gov has recently stressed the importance of keeping kids in school : Amid COVID , he wrote , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is in school .
So , will he change or scrap his 9 percent number ?
Alas , his aides haven ’ t responded to questions about that .
Meanwhile , de Blasio vowed to open schools by early September .
Then he folded in the face of a teachers-union strike threat , repeatedly pushing off the start , until he finally opened them in October — after cutting a deal with the union that included a closure threshold of 3 percent .
The uproar when he closed schools again on that basis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , letting some schools reopen .
Following all this ?
Then there ’ s the game with the definition of “ in-person ” learning : “ It ’ s called [ an ] in-person program , ” but kids “ sit in front of laptops ” ; there ’ s no in-person instruction , fumes mom Halina Kosiorowska , whose third-grader attends PS 71 in Queens .
Often teachers aren ’ t even present ; kids basically spend “ hours in front of the iPad in a school building.
” Online instruction isn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a classroom .
They need live , in-person interaction with teachers .
Yes , policies need to evolve as we learn more about what ’ s safe and what ’ s truly risky .
But leaders need to set clearer , more reliable plans that ensure kids get a meaningful education — COVID or not .

Bad enough parents must play Red Light, Green Light on kids’ in-person learning; worse, the rules of the game are unclear, ever-changing and set sometimes by Mayor de Blasio, sometimes by Gov. Cuomo — two officials who are rarely on the same page.
Families are now again wondering: Are their kids’ schools about to close down for the umpteenth time — after reopening just last Monday? And what does it depend on?
Out of some 850 schools that opened the first week, 19 schools had closed for various periods by Friday — plus one Staten Island school that was shuttered before it even opened.
And the governor has been imposing new restrictions, as COVID cases and hospitalizations climb. Back in July, Cuomo set an arbitrary 9 percent positivity-rate threshold for closing schools statewide. Tuesday, Mayor de Blasio said he believes that rule is still in effect. So if COVID trends continue, new school closures may be on tap.
Yet the gov has recently stressed the importance of keeping kids in school: Amid COVID, he wrote, “the safest place” to be is in school. So, will he change or scrap his 9 percent number? Alas, his aides haven’t responded to questions about that.
Meanwhile, de Blasio vowed to open schools by early September. Then he folded in the face of a teachers-union strike threat, repeatedly pushing off the start, until he finally opened them in October — after cutting a deal with the union that included a closure threshold of 3 percent.
The uproar when he closed schools again on that basis led him to quickly reverse himself again, letting some schools reopen. Following all this?
Then there’s the game with the definition of “in-person” learning:
“It’s called [an] in-person program,” but kids “sit in front of laptops”; there’s no in-person instruction, fumes mom Halina Kosiorowska, whose third-grader attends PS 71 in Queens. Often teachers aren’t even present; kids basically spend “hours in front of the iPad in a school building.”
Online instruction isn’t improved just because kids are in a classroom. They need live, in-person interaction with teachers.
Yes, policies need to evolve as we learn more about what’s safe and what’s truly risky. But leaders need to set clearer, more reliable plans that ensure kids get a meaningful education — COVID or not.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--GOP senator: Congress should have known about Hunter Biden probes amid impeachment

Now that the election is over and it is safe ...

Congress should have been made aware of the investigations into the “tax affairs” of Hunter Biden as they considered the articles of impeachment against President Trump in 2019, Sen. Ron Johnson said.
“I’m sympathetic for keeping investigations confidential unless there’s an indictment,” the Wisconsin Republican told Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures.”
“But when you’re talking about investigations within the political realm, particularly one that would have affected the impeachment trial of the sitting US president in the US Senate, that should have been relevant information, the fact that they had Hunter Biden’s computer that had all these emails back in December 2019,” Johnson continued.
The probes into President-elect Joe Biden’s son began in 2018, and a report on Sunday said they extend beyond his time on the board of Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company, to include his dealings in China.
Subpoenas reportedly seek information from more than two dozen entities he was connected to.
“That was before the trial, that was part of that impeachment, we should have known that,” Johnson said.
Hunter Biden said he wasn’t aware of the investigations until last week.
The House Intelligence Committee held the first public hearing into impeachment on Nov. 13, 2019, and the House Judiciary Committee began hearing testimony on Dec. 4.
The House voted to impeach Trump on Dec. 18, but the Senate acquitted him on Feb. 5.
Attorney General Bill Barr was reportedly aware of the investigations into Hunter Biden but didn’t disclose the information to Congress during the 2020 presidential election.
Hunter Biden (left) and then-Vice President Joe Biden Teresa Kroeger
Trump blasted the country’s top lawman for keeping the investigations under wraps.
“Joe Biden lied on the debate stage, he said there’s nothing happening, nothing happening, and Bill Barr should have stepped up,” the president said during an interview on “Fox & Friends” that aired Sunday morning. “All he had to do is say an investigation is going on.”
Justice Department protocol discourages the release of information about federal investigations near an election to avoid appearances of political interference.
“When I met with the attorney general, it was really talking about the corrupt FBI investigation relating to the Russian hoax, so I don’t believe I ever really talked about our investigations of Hunter Biden, which by the way we never targeted the Bidens,” Johnson said.
“That whole issue was brought forth during the impeachment. That’s when we started expanding our Ukrainian investigation to include his financial dealings, and then when we started seeing all these wire transfers that were connected to Hunter Biden.”
The Post revealed in October that Hunter Biden introduced his father to a top executive at Burisma.
He joined the company’s board in 2014 and was reportedly paid $50,000 a month. Hunter Biden stepped down in April 2019 when his term expired.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--NJ gym famed for defying COVID-19 lockdown orders fined more than $1.2 million

A New Jersey town has voted to rescind the license ...

The owners of a New Jersey gym who famously defied orders to close the fitness center during the coronavirus pandemic have now been hit with more than $1.2 million in fines — but are staying open as a “F–k you” to Gov. Phil Murphy.
The Atilis Gym in Bellmawr became an anti-lockdown poster child in May after it repeatedly refused to adhere to the Garden State’s orders to close.
Now, the gym has had more than 60 citations totaling more than $1.2 million — despite not having a single infection linked to the business after more than 83,000 visits in that time, one of the co-owners, Ian Smith, told Fox News.
Smith sent a clear message to Murphy and other state officials in a video shared by TMZ in which he vowed to stay open — filmed without a mask in the middle of his packed gym.
“Gov. Murphy will see this video and fine us $15k for it,” reads one of a series of flashcards a smiling Smith holds up in the video.
“But … free men don’t ask permission. Or for forgiveness,” it continues.
“F–k you, Murphy,” a male voice then says loudly in the video after Smith walks off camera.
Smith told Fox that the governor has “thrown everything he possibly could to shut us down.”
“He has arrested my partner and I, given us over 60 citations, some of them criminal. He fines us $15,497.76 per day for every day we’re in operation,” he said.
“Our fines are totaling over $1.2 million, but every single day, Frank and I open our gym,” he said.
He called the damage being caused to a small business “a complete tragedy.”
“I would go so far as to call it criminal,” he said.
“You are putting people out of business for good. You are making them reliant on big government. You are taking away their civil liberties under the guise of pretending like you care about public health.”
As well as keeping open when gyms had to be closed in the state, Atilis also defiantly refuses to mandate masks for its patrons.
“All of our other safety measures have kept our members safe,” he said, noting “83,000 visits and no outbreaks linked to the facility.”
Previous 1 of 5 Next Advertisement Atilis Gym owners Frank Trumbetti (left) and Ian Smith in the gym, where they have set up cleaning supplies, social distancing guidelines and limitations on how many can enter the gym Stephen Yang People work out with new social distancing guidelines and limitations at Atilis Gym Stephen Yang Advertisement Atilis Gym co-owner Ian Smith Stephen Yang Advertisement
Murphy’s office told TMZ it had “nothing to add.”


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Woman plunges to death in front of family at ‘perfect selfie’ spot in Australia

An Australian woman plunged about 260 feet to her death in front of her horrified husband and two sons after climbing over a safety barrier at a “ perfect selfie ” spot at a nature reserve , according to reports .
Rosy Loomba , 38 , of Craigieburn , was hiking with her family at the picturesque Grampians National Park in Victoria on Saturday afternoon when she decided to pose for a photo at the Boroka lookout near the village of Halls Gap , news.com.au reported .
Police have issued many warnings about the dangers of the idyllic spot — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selfie ” spot — but the woman nonetheless scaled a railing and plummeted to her death as her husband , Basant , and two young sons looked on helplessly .
It took emergency personnel more than six hours to retrieve her body from the rugged terrain using a winch , according to the news outlet .
“ She was a good life partner for my brother and best mum for her kids , ” the woman ’ s sister-in-law Jassu Minal Loomba told the Herald Sun .
“ ( The family is ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really hard to believe.
” Police Minister Lisa Neville said on Sunday that “ no photo is worth a life ” and urged people to look out for their safety over their social media feeds .
“ What we saw ( on Saturday ) was a really tragic outcome of behavior that unfortunately we see too often , ” she said , news.com.au reported .
“ Do not take these .
It not only puts you at risk but it actually risks our life savers and emergency services workers that have to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Neville added .
In January , police warned : “ One of the issues that is constantly tying up our resources is individuals risking life and limb in a bid to get the ultimate selfie .
“ We regularly see dangerous photos and videos geo-tagged to the area where individuals have compromised their own safety to get a particular shot , ” the warning said .
“ We also frequently work with local rescue teams on missions to bring individuals to safety who have ignored signage and climbed over safety barriers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always have successful outcomes.
” Sgt .
Russell Brown predicted that “ absolutely ludicrous ” social posts would eventually lead to tragedy .
“ From an emergency services point of view it ’ s quite frustrating when you see that irresponsible action that can lead to serious injury or death , ” he said .
“ If you fall , you die .
If this turns bad you ’ ve got to be thinking of your family , friends and other people who have to become involved.
” Graham Wood , who runs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there was a large crowd at the lookout Saturday .
“ I don ’ t know how you can stop it happening but maybe this incident will help , ” he said .
“ It ’ s a hard way to get people to adhere to what should be common sense.
” In January 1999 , a 59-year-old British tourist fell to her death at the same spot while vacationing with her husband and other relatives .
In November 2018 , a man went viral for a video showing him completing a backflip @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many commented that he was “ lucky to be alive , ” according to the news outlet .

An Australian woman plunged about 260 feet to her death in front of her horrified husband and two sons after climbing over a safety barrier at a “perfect selfie” spot at a nature reserve, according to reports.
Rosy Loomba, 38, of Craigieburn, was hiking with her family at the picturesque Grampians National Park in Victoria on Saturday afternoon when she decided to pose for a photo at the Boroka lookout near the village of Halls Gap, news.com.au reported.
Police have issued many warnings about the dangers of the idyllic spot — famed on Instagram as the “perfect selfie” spot — but the woman nonetheless scaled a railing and plummeted to her death as her husband, Basant, and two young sons looked on helplessly.
It took emergency personnel more than six hours to retrieve her body from the rugged terrain using a winch, according to the news outlet.
“She was a good life partner for my brother and best mum for her kids,” the woman’s sister-in-law Jassu Minal Loomba told the Herald Sun. “(The family is) still in shock and it’s really hard to believe.”
Police Minister Lisa Neville said on Sunday that “no photo is worth a life” and urged people to look out for their safety over their social media feeds.
“What we saw (on Saturday) was a really tragic outcome of behavior that unfortunately we see too often,” she said, news.com.au reported.
“Do not take these. It not only puts you at risk but it actually risks our life savers and emergency services workers that have to go either to rescue you or your body,” Neville added.
In January, police warned: “One of the issues that is constantly tying up our resources is individuals risking life and limb in a bid to get the ultimate selfie.
Previous 1 of 3 Next Advertisement Rosy Loomba with husband Basant Facebook Rosy Loomba with husband Basant Facebook Advertisement
“We regularly see dangerous photos and videos geo-tagged to the area where individuals have compromised their own safety to get a particular shot,” the warning said.
“We also frequently work with local rescue teams on missions to bring individuals to safety who have ignored signage and climbed over safety barriers or fencing. Our missions do not always have successful outcomes.”
Sgt. Russell Brown predicted that “absolutely ludicrous” social posts would eventually lead to tragedy.
“From an emergency services point of view it’s quite frustrating when you see that irresponsible action that can lead to serious injury or death,” he said. “If you fall, you die. If this turns bad, you’ve got to be thinking of your family, friends and other people who have to become involved.”
Graham Wood, who runs motorcycle tours in the area, said there was a large crowd at the lookout Saturday.
“I don’t know how you can stop it happening but maybe this incident will help,” he said. “It’s a hard way to get people to adhere to what should be common sense.”
In January 1999, a 59-year-old British tourist fell to her death at the same spot while vacationing with her husband and other relatives.
In November 2018, a man went viral for a video showing him completing a backflip on the edge of the lookout. Many commented that he was “lucky to be alive,” according to the news outlet.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Fantasy football injury update Week 14: Matthew Stafford, Alex Smith

Welcome to the fantasy football playoffs and congratulations to all ...

Sunday of NFL Week 14 brought a flurry of news on the injury front.
Quarterbacks Matthew Stafford, Alex Smith and Brandon Allen all sustained potentially serious injuries which may carry implications for other fantasy-relevant players on their teams. Dolphins pass catchers Mike Gesicki and DeVante Parker were both hurt, as was 49ers receiver Deebo Samuel.
Here’s a recap of the biggest injuries to players across the league and how it could impact fantasy football in the final two weeks of the playoffs:
Matthew Stafford, QB, Detroit Lions (ribs)
Stafford sustained a ribs injury during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s divisional clash against the Packers and was forced to exit the game. He finished the day completing 24 of 34 attempts for 244 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions and was briefly replaced by backup Chase Daniel, who completed went 3-for-6 for 29 yards.
Stafford underwent X-rays after the game, per interim head coach Darrell Bevell, who said “it’s too early to tell” regarding the extent of the injury. Bevell added the team would have more of an update on Monday. If Daniel gets the start come Sunday on the road against the Titans, expect all the fantasy-relevant players on the Lions (e.g., T.J. Hockenson, Marvin Jones, D’Andre Swift) to be downgraded.
Alex Smith, QB, Washington Football Team (calf)
Smith exited the game after suffering an injury to his right calf during the first half of Sunday’s win over the 49ers. The 36-year-old finished completing 8 of 19 attempts for 57 yards, zero touchdowns and one interception and was replaced by 2019 first-rounder Dwayne Haskins, who was benched earlier this season for Kyle Allen (on IR). Haskins completed 7 of 12 attempts for 51 yards and had four rushes for a loss of 12 yards.
Head coach Ron Rivera told reporters after the game that it was a “somewhat mild” calf strain and X-rays were negative, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. It’s still concerning, however, given that it’s the same leg that nearly cost Smith his career in 2018.
Smith’s status remains up in the air heading into Week 15 as the Football Team attempts to hold first place in the NFC East for the first time this season. In terms of fantasy, the switch to Haskins isn’t likely to have a massive impact on the skill position players (perhaps aside from Smith’s favorite short-yardage weapon, J.D. McKissic).
Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, Washington Football Team quarterback Alex Smith Getty Images
Mike Gesicki, TE, Miami Dolphins (shoulder)
The Dolphins tight end suffered a scary shoulder injury toward the end of the team’s Week 14 loss to the Chiefs. Prior to the injury, Gesicki had been in the midst of a career game and reeled five of six targets for 65 yards and two touchdowns.
Head coach Brian Flores did not update the media on his star tight end’s status and said it’s “too early right now. … We’ll probably have more information later in the week,” per the Miami Herald.
If Gesicki misses any time, the Dolphins would have to turn to Durham Smythe, Adam Shaheen and Chris Myarick, who are next on the tight end depth chart. Gesicki was already borderline relevant given offensive coordinator Chan Gailey’s usage of the position, so none of the remaining guys would be worthwhile for fantasy purposes.
DeVante Parker, WR, Miami Dolphins (leg)
Parker suffered a leg injury during the first half of Sunday’s loss to the Chiefs and was deemed questionable to return. He was held catchless on two targets for the day. His absence elevated Lynn Bowden Jr., who caught seven of nine targets for 82 yards, Mack Collins, who caught five of six targets for 66 yards, and Gesicki, who scored twice. Gesicki and receiver Jakeem Grant were also injured during the game
The extent of the injury is unclear at this time, as Flores did not provide updates on any of the injuries postgame. If Parker were to miss time, his absence could lift Bowden’s and Collins’ fantasy values to relevance in deeper leagues only.
Deebo Samuel, WR, San Francisco 49ers (hamstring)
Samuel saw all of one snap in Sunday’s loss to the Washington Football Team before he visibly injured his right hamstring. He had already missed three games this season with a hamstring strain suffered in Week 7. After the game, head coach Kyle Shanahan didn’t sound optimistic about Samuel’s outlook and said the receiver will undergo further imaging to determine the extent of the injury on Monday.
“You could tell just talking to him, didn’t look good,” Shanahan said. “He’ll have an MRI, they’ll look at it tomorrow.”
Samuel himself took to Instagram to post a since-deleted story that he may have suggested he’s done for the season. If true, Brandon Aiyuk — who caught 10 of 16 targets for 119 yards — would likely benefit the most. Kendrick Bourne (3-7-42-0) and Richie James (3-3-33-0) could also see more targets, but would only be worthy of consideration in the deepest of leagues.
Brandon Allen, QB, Cincinnati Bengals (knee)
Allen makes an appearance on the injury report for the second week in a row after suffering a right knee injury in the Bengals’ loss to the Cowboys on Sunday. He completed 27 of 36 for 217 yards, one touchdown, zero interceptions and four rushes for 12 yards as the injury occurred late in the game. He was briefly replaced by Ryan Finley, who completed one pass for 5 yards.
The Bengals’ skill-position players have all taken a significant hit since Joe Burrow went down with a season-ending injury. Finley would likely be a further downgrade, however, if Allen misses time.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--75 infected with COVID-19 after Santa visits nursing home in Belgium

Sign up for our special edition newsletter to get a daily update on the coronavirus pandemic .
Santa Claus spread more than good cheer at a nursing home in Belgium — with his visit leaving at least 75 people infected with COVID-19 , according to local TV .
The alleged super-spreading St. Nick was one of the first to fall sick after his visit to the Hemelrijck care home in Antwerp just over a week ago , followed by 61 elderly residents and 14 staff , officials told VRT .
“ It was made with the best intent , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Mol , Wim Caeyers , said of the visit , calling it “ a very black day for the care home.
” “ It is a very great mental strain to bear for the man that played Saint Nicholas , as well as for the organizers and the staff , ” Caeyers told the network .
“ It will be all hands on deck during the coming week , ” he said of trying to contain the outbreak .
Staff initially insisted that Santa — who was reportedly the son of one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and adhered to safety protocols , as did those who met him .
However , photos of the meet-and-greet quickly proved that to be untrue , the mayor claimed .
Jannes Verheyen , a rep for Armonea , the company that runs the care home , told The Brussels Times that everyone was “ shocked ” at what happened .
“ It makes no sense to condemn people , ” he said , with staff instead “ motivated ” to control the virus ’ spread .

Sign up for our special edition newsletter to get a daily update on the coronavirus pandemic.
Santa Claus spread more than good cheer at a nursing home in Belgium — with his visit leaving at least 75 people infected with COVID-19, according to local TV.
The alleged superspreading St. Nick was one of the first to fall sick after his visit to the Hemelrijck care home in Antwerp just over a week ago, followed by 61 elderly residents and 14 staff, officials told VRT.
“It was made with the best intent, but it went wrong,” the mayor of Mol, Wim Caeyers, said of the visit, calling it “a very black day for the care home.”
“It is a very great mental strain to bear for the man that played Saint Nicholas, as well as for the organizers and the staff,” Caeyers told the network.
“It will be all hands on deck during the coming week,” he said of trying to contain the outbreak.
Staff initially insisted that Santa — who was reportedly the son of one of the residents — wore a mask and adhered to safety protocols, as did those who met him. However, photos of the meet-and-greet quickly proved that to be untrue, the mayor claimed.
Jannes Verheyen, a rep for Armonea, the company that runs the care home, told the Brussels Times that everyone was “shocked” at what happened.
“It makes no sense to condemn people,” he said, with staff instead “motivated” to control the virus’ spread.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--13 Chess Gift Ideas Inspired By ‘The Queen’s Gambit’

Based on a nearly 40 year old novel from Walter Tevis , author of The Color of Money , The Hustler and the 1976 David Bowie film of the same name , The Man Who Fell to Earth , The Queen ’ s Gambit is a TV show about an orphaned young woman who is both a chess prodigy and an addict .
The compelling limited scripted series , which took place in the 50s and 60s , has been an unexpected hit–capturing hearts and minds around the world while becoming Netflix ’ s most watched limited scripted series .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same breath , almost single handedly sparking a resurgence of interest in the game of chess as well as mid-century décor and fashion .
So , if you ’ re looking for something new , exciting and relevant , to gift this season , why not consider this guide based on all that is The Queen ’ s Gambit ?
From stylized chess sets to checkerboard coats , this holiday guide will let you CHECK everyone off your list .
Let chess stay front and center with this end table with built-on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it secure enough for long games and light enough to move around if you want a change of scenery .
Plus , you can store all your pieces in the built-in drawer if you need some time to contemplate before the next challenge .
When the buildings of New York City are your game pieces , chess will never be the same .
This chess set comes with 32 , double-weighted molded acrylic pieces crafted into famous architectural icons like The Freedom Tower as the King , the Empire State Building as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bishop and the Flatiron Building as the Knight .
I love NY , indeed .
This stunning , brightly colored chess set from designer Jonathan Adler can easily take center stage in any room .
And though it almost looks too pretty to touch , the 70s era , Halston-inspired Lucite pieces in orange and fluorescent yellow are the perfect vehicles for stiff competition .
A basic , wooden chess set is the perfect way for the whole family to get started on the game .
The 15-inch inlaid walnut board folds for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crafted in the Staunton style with felted bottoms to help keep the board tidy .
OK , you ’ ve got the board , the pieces and the will .
But how will you learn how to play ?
Enter Masterclass , the streaming platform with over 90 different video classes from the world ’ s best at , well , pretty much everything .
This particular class with world chess champion Garry Kasparov offers detailed lessons on how to play chess , as well as advanced tactics and even the master ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now , and you ’ ll pay the annual $ 180 for two memberships until December 28—which means you can also gift one to a hopeful chess partner .
Show your love for Beth Harmon , and the game , with this Queen ’ s Gambit Chess Queen T-shirt .
You can grab it in classic , long , active , baseball ¾ sleeve , fitted or even long sleeved .
The Queen ’ s Gambit Novel , $ 11 for Kindle , $ 12 for Paperback This is where it all started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel like diving in and devouring Tevis ’ divinely efficient prose , you ’ ll be able to use your imagination to fill in whatever details might still need rendering .
buy the queen ’ s gambit novel on amazon How To Play Chess For Kids , $ 12 The kids are OK , especially when they ’ re learning how to play chess .
We love this simple to understand book for ages eight to 12 , which begins at the beginning , then moves on to tactics , strategies and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes a glossary to help kids remember the names of all the pieces and moves .
buy how to play chess for kids on amazon Mix up some cocktails with this retro crystal mixology set , created specifically for neat or spirit-forward drinks–just like Beth likes em .
The set comes with two crystal glasses and a decanter , all which are thankfully dishwasher safe .
buy the riedel mixology neat set at saks fifth avenue If you want to recreate the pink and white candy colored plaid wool jacket Beth wore to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lulu ’ s will keep you warm as well as stylish .
No , it ’ s not as mod as the original , but we adore the notched lapels and extra-long sleeves .
The Peter Pan collar on this dress just screams 1960s fashion , and you can mimic Beth ’ s sophisticated look with this green plaid frock from Tommy Hilfiger .
When Beth settles into the Wheatley ’ s home , we are treated to a modern twist on a traditional wing chair in a calm aqua blue .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a camelback and comes in teal , as well as gray or pink if you want to change it up .
Alma Wheatley , Beth ’ s adopted mother , enjoys a love for animals , and shows off her Rosa Bonheur prints—including Wild Cat , which was painted in 1850 .
Bonheur was a passionate female artist functioning in a man ’ s world , which closely imitates Beth ’ s fictional climb through the sexist ranks of chess .

Based on a nearly 40 year old novel from Walter Tevis, author of The Color of Money, The Hustler and the 1976 David Bowie film of the same name, The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Queen’s Gambit is a TV show about an orphaned young woman who is both a chess prodigy and an addict.
The compelling limited scripted series, which took place in the 50s and 60s, has been an unexpected hit–capturing hearts and minds around the world while becoming Netflix’s most watched limited scripted series. Like, ever. And, in the same breath, almost single handedly sparking a resurgence of interest in the game of chess as well as mid-century décor and fashion.
So, if you’re looking for something new, exciting and relevant, to gift this season, why not consider this guide based on all that is The Queen’s Gambit? From stylized chess sets to checkerboard coats, this holiday guide will let you CHECK everyone off your list.
Let chess stay front and center with this end table with built-on chess board. The metal stand makes it secure enough for long games and light enough to move around if you want a change of scenery. Plus, you can store all your pieces in the built-in drawer if you need some time to contemplate before the next challenge.
Buy the bundaloo chess board table at amazon
When the buildings of New York City are your game pieces, chess will never be the same. This chess set comes with 32, double-weighted molded acrylic pieces crafted into famous architectural icons like The Freedom Tower as the King, the Empire State Building as the Queen, the Chrysler Building as the bishop and the Flatiron Building as the Knight. I love NY, indeed.
Buy the NYC skyline chess set on amazon
This stunning, brightly colored chess set from designer Jonathan Adler can easily take center stage in any room. And though it almost looks too pretty to touch, the 70s era, Halston-inspired Lucite pieces in orange and fluorescent yellow are the perfect vehicles for stiff competition.
buy the acrylic chess set at jonathan adler
A basic, wooden chess set is the perfect way for the whole family to get started on the game. The 15-inch inlaid walnut board folds for simple storage and each piece is hand crafted in the Staunton style with felted bottoms to help keep the board tidy.
buy the armory wooden chess set on amazon
Garry Kasparov Masterclass, $180 yearly membership
OK, you’ve got the board, the pieces and the will. But how will you learn how to play? Enter Masterclass, the streaming platform with over 90 different video classes from the world’s best at, well, pretty much everything. This particular class with world chess champion Garry Kasparov offers detailed lessons on how to play chess, as well as advanced tactics and even the master’s philosophical musings. Grab your membership now, and you’ll pay the annual $180 for two memberships until December 28—which means you can also gift one to a hopeful chess partner.
Subscribe to Masterclass
Show your love for Beth Harmon, and the game, with this Queen’s Gambit Chess Queen T-shirt. You can grab it in classic, long, active, baseball ¾ sleeve, fitted or even long sleeved.
buy the beth harmon t-shirt at redbubble
The Queen’s Gambit Novel, $11 for Kindle, $12 for Paperback
This is where it all started, folks. So, if you feel like diving in and devouring Tevis’ divinely efficient prose, you’ll be able to use your imagination to fill in whatever details might still need rendering.
buy the queen’s gambit novel on amazon
The kids are OK, especially when they’re learning how to play chess. We love this simple to understand book for ages eight to 12, which begins at the beginning, then moves on to tactics, strategies and how to practice thinking ahead. It also includes a glossary to help kids remember the names of all the pieces and moves.
buy how to play chess for kids on amazon
Mix up some cocktails with this retro crystal mixology set, created specifically for neat or spirit-forward drinks–just like Beth likes em. The set comes with two crystal glasses and a decanter, all which are thankfully dishwasher safe.
buy the riedel mixology neat set at saks fifth avenue
If you want to recreate the pink and white candy colored plaid wool jacket Beth wore to go shopping, this longer version from Lulu’s will keep you warm as well as stylish. No, it’s not as mod as the original, but we adore the notched lapels and extra-long sleeves.
buy lulu’s light pink plaid coat at lulu’s
The Peter Pan collar on this dress just screams 1960s fashion, and you can mimic Beth’s sophisticated look with this green plaid frock from Tommy Hilfiger.
buy the tommy hilfiger collar pocket dress on amazon
When Beth settles into the Wheatley’s home, we are treated to a modern twist on a traditional wing chair in a calm aqua blue. This tufted velvet armchair has rounded arms, a camelback and comes in teal, as well as gray or pink if you want to change it up.
buy the bellmead teal tufted velvet armchair at wayfair
Rosa Bonheur Wild Cat Print, from $25
Alma Wheatley, Beth’s adopted mother, enjoys a love for animals, and shows off her Rosa Bonheur prints—including Wild Cat, which was painted in 1850. Bonheur was a passionate female artist functioning in a man’s world, which closely imitates Beth’s fictional climb through the sexist ranks of chess.
buy the rosa bonheur wild cat print at art.com


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Robin Thicke’s fiancée, April Love Geary, gives birth to their third child

Click to email this to a friend ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Twitter ( Opens in new window ) Click to share on Facebook ( Opens in new window ) On Friday , April Love Geary announced the birth of her third child with fiancé Robin Thicke , son Luca .
“ My Luca Patrick , you are so perfect .
Mommy & daddy love you so much , ” Geary , 26 , gushed on Instagram , sharing a snap from her hospital bed .
Thicke , who shares daughters Mia , 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , also posted a black-and-white photo of the couple ’ s newborn son .
“ Luca Patrick Thicke is in the house !
!
!
” the “ Blurred Lines ” crooner , 43 , began on Instagram .
“ Thank you God , and my darling @ Aprillovegeary for this blessing .
I Wish my Dad and Andre Harrell were still here to meet him , But I will do my best everyday to teach him what they taught me about Family , Friendship and Love .
Thank you all for your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luca !
” Thicke continued .
In September , Us Weekly confirmed Geary and Thicke were expecting their third child together .
They have been dating since 2014 .
In addition to his three children with Geary , Thicke also shares a 10-year-old son , Julian Fuego , with ex-wife Paula Patton .
Thicke is the son of late “ Growing Pains ” actor Alan Thicke , who died in December 2016 from a ruptured artery .
He was 69 years old .
On Sunday , Thicke posted an emotional tribute to his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death .
“ Four years ago today , on December 13 , 2016 , my beloved Father passed away .
As I wake up next to this little guy his first night home , I miss my father so much , but I feel his love in my heart every time I kiss my babies on the head the same way he would kiss me , ” Thicke wrote on Instagram .
“ I ’ m crying a little right now .
Partly because I ’ m sad you ’ re not here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ happy that I had you to love me , guide me , and show me the way .
I hope I make you proud .
I miss you every day .
Thank you Dad , ” he concluded .

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He’s here!
On Friday, April Love Geary announced the birth of her third child with fiancé Robin Thicke, son Luca.
“My Luca Patrick, you are so perfect. Mommy & daddy love you so much,” Geary, 26, gushed on Instagram, sharing a snap from her hospital bed.
Thicke, who shares daughters Mia, 2, and Lola, 1, with Geary, also posted a black-and-white photo of the couple’s newborn son.
“Luca Patrick Thicke is in the house!!!” the “Blurred Lines” crooner, 43, began on Instagram.
“Thank you God, and my darling @Aprillovegeary for this blessing. I Wish my Dad and Andre Harrell were still here to meet him, But I will do my best everyday to teach him what they taught me about Family, Friendship and Love. Thank you all for your kindness and support! I love you Luca!” Thicke continued.
In September, Us Weekly confirmed Geary and Thicke were expecting their third child together. They have been dating since 2014.
In addition to his three children with Geary, Thicke also shares a 10-year-old son, Julian Fuego, with ex-wife Paula Patton.
Thicke is the son of late “Growing Pains” actor Alan Thicke, who died in December 2016 from a ruptured artery. He was 69 years old.
On Sunday, Thicke posted an emotional tribute to his father on the fourth anniversary of his death.
“Four years ago today, on December 13, 2016, my beloved Father passed away. As I wake up next to this little guy his first night home, I miss my father so much, but I feel his love in my heart every time I kiss my babies on the head the same way he would kiss me,” Thicke wrote on Instagram.
“I’m crying a little right now. Partly because I’m sad you’re not here, but mostly because I’m happy that I had you to love me, guide me, and show me the way. I hope I make you proud. I miss you every day. Thank you Dad,” he concluded.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Gmail, YouTube, other Google services hit with massive outage

Google services including Gmail and YouTube suffered a massive outage Monday morning that briefly shut users around the world out of their accounts .
The outage disabled all of Google ’ s Workspace services — including Google Calendar , Google Drive and the Google Meet videoconferencing tool — at the start of the workweek along with the tech titan ’ s flagship email platform .
Google confirmed the outage on its public status dashboard at 6:55 a.m. and said it had restored service for “ some users ” about 35 minutes later .
The company did not immediately respond to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We expect a resolution for all users in the near future , ” Google said on the dashboard .
The outage was most widely reported in Europe and the East Coast of the US but users also flagged problems in India , Japan and parts of South America , according to outage-tracking website Downdetector .
Gmail users received error messages saying their accounts were unavailable when trying to access their emails , according to Twitter posts about the problems .
For instance , the service said it “ couldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Post reporter attempted to log into his Gmail account .
The YouTube homepage was also disabled — it currently shows a cartoon image of a monkey holding a hammer with the message , “ Something went wrong… ” Google did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the problems Monday .

Google services including Gmail and YouTube suffered a massive outage early Monday morning that briefly shut users around the world out of their accounts.
The 45-minute outage disabled all of Google’s Workspace services — including Google Calendar, Google Drive and the Google Meet videoconferencing tool — at the start of the workweek along with the tech titan’s flagship email platform and video-sharing site.
Google said an “internal storage quota issue” caused the outage to its authentication system from 6:47 a.m. to 7:32 a.m. Eastern time. Services that required users to log in “experienced high error rates” during that time period, the Silicon Valley giant said.
“All services are now restored,” a Google spokesperson said in a statement. “We apologize to everyone affected, and we will conduct a thorough follow up review to ensure this problem cannot recur in the future.”
The problems were most widely reported in Europe and the East Coast of the US but users also flagged problems in India, Japan and parts of South America, according to outage-tracking website Downdetector.
Gmail users received error messages saying their accounts were unavailable when trying to access their emails, according to Twitter posts about the problems. For instance, the service said it “couldn’t find your Google account” when a Post reporter attempted to log into his Gmail account.
The YouTube homepage was also disabled — it currently shows a cartoon image of a monkey holding a hammer with the message, “Something went wrong…”


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--What you need to know about today’s Electoral College vote

Americans went to the polls in the 2020 presidential election on Nov. 3 , but on Monday the Electoral College will meet to cast its votes — one of the last steps to officially install a president before Inauguration Day on Jan. 20 .
The voters in the Electoral College are empowered by the Constitution to select the next commander in chief — and President-elect Joe Biden is expected to emerge with 306 electoral votes to President Trump ’ s 232 .
It takes 270 to win the presidency .
Here ’ s what you need to know about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The vote begins at 10 a.m. EST Monday and continues through the day as each state goes through the process .
New York meets at noon , while California won ’ t meet until 5 p.m. Eastern .
Will it be broadcast and live-streamed ?
A number of news outlets , including CNN , CNN.com and C-Span will carry the votes .
Many states will also have livestreams , including Wisconsin , Michigan , Pennsylvania and Georgia , where the results were contested in the courts .
The electors by law meet on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in December , providing enough time to resolve any disputes about the Nov. 3 election .
Where do the electors meet and what to they do ?
 The electors meet in places dictated by their state legislatures — most often the state capital .
Nevada will meet virtually .
Each of the 538 electors casts a vote for president and one for vice president .
Those votes are counted and certified and combined with the governor ’ s vote totals .
All 50 states have certified their votes .
Copies are then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s secretary of state , and the National Archives and Records Administration .
Do they have to vote for the candidate who won their state ?
Laws in 32 states and the District of Columbia require electors to vote for the candidate who won the popular vote in their state .
But 17 states allow electors to vote for their choice .
The US Supreme Court ruled in July that “ faithless electors ” who don ’ t cast votes for the candidate they were pledged to support can be punished @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electors ?
Usually they are political hopefuls , loyalists and elected officials selected by their parties .
Why is there so much interest this year ?
Usually the electoral voters meet every four years without the inordinate amount of attention the meeting has gained this year .
Trump has yet to concede the election to Biden , and through his legal team or Republican allies , has disputed the results in the courts .
Why is there an Electoral College ?
The country ’ s founders sought a compromise between the popular vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Constitution allows each state a number of electors equal to their seats in Congress .
Other than Maine and Nebraska , states give all of their votes to the winner of the popular vote in their state .
Twice in the last 20 years , the winner of the popular vote lost to the winner of the Electoral College — Trump over Hillary Clinton in 2016 and President George W. Bush over Al Gore in 2000 .
What happens next ?
The electoral votes are counted by the House and Senate on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ either chamber objects to the vote , the House and Senate meet separately for debate .
But to sustain the objection , both chambers must vote to do so .
That ’ s unlikely to happen in the Democratic-controlled House .
The Inauguration is on Jan. 20 .

Americans went to the polls in the 2020 presidential election on Nov. 3, but on Monday the Electoral College will meet to cast its votes — one of the last steps to officially install a president before Inauguration Day on Jan. 20.
The voters in the Electoral College are empowered by the Constitution to select the next commander in chief — and President-elect Joe Biden is expected to emerge with 306 electoral votes to President Trump’s 232.
It takes 270 to win the presidency.
Here’s what you need to know about the process
What time does it begin?
The vote begins at 10 a.m. EST Monday and continues through the day as each state goes through the process. New York meets at noon, while California won’t meet until 5 p.m. Eastern.
Will it be broadcast and live-streamed?
A number of news outlets, including CNN, CNN.com and C-Span will carry the votes. Many states will also have livestreams, including Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Georgia, where the results were contested in the courts.
Why December 14?
The electors by law meet on the first Monday after the second Wednesday in December, providing enough time to resolve any disputes about the Nov. 3 election.
Where do the electors meet and what to they do?
The electors meet in places dictated by their state legislatures — most often the state capital. Nevada will meet virtually.
Each of the 538 electors casts a vote for president and one for vice president. Those votes are counted and certified and combined with the governor’s vote totals. All 50 states have certified their votes. Copies are then sent to the US Senate, the state’s secretary of state, and the National Archives and Records Administration.
Do they have to vote for the candidate who won their state?
Laws in 32 states and the District of Columbia require electors to vote for the candidate who won the popular vote in their state. But 17 states allow electors to vote for their choice. The US Supreme Court ruled in July that “faithless electors” who don’t cast votes for the candidate they were pledged to support can be punished by the state.
Who are the electors?
Usually they are political hopefuls, loyalists and elected officials selected by their parties.
Why is there so much interest this year?
Usually the electoral voters meet every four years without the inordinate amount of attention the meeting has gained this year. Trump has yet to concede the election to Biden, and through his legal team or Republican allies, has disputed the results in the courts.
Why is there an Electoral College?
The country’s founders sought a compromise between the popular vote and having Congress choose the president. The Constitution allows each state a number of electors equal to their seats in Congress. Other than Maine and Nebraska, states give all of their votes to the winner of the popular vote in their state.
Twice in the last 20 years, the winner of the popular vote lost to the winner of the Electoral College — Trump over Hillary Clinton in 2016 and President George W. Bush over Al Gore in 2000.
What happens next?
The electoral votes are counted by the House and Senate on Jan. 6. If a member of either chamber objects to the vote, the House and Senate meet separately for debate. But to sustain the objection, both chambers must vote to do so. That’s unlikely to happen in the Democratic-controlled House.
The Inauguration is on Jan. 20.
With Post wires


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Evicted Texas tenant had a Bud Light decorating touch

Bud Light bottles are piled high in this Texas apartment .
The evicted tenant left behind hundreds of empties and @ @ @ @ @ — the signature carrying case of the low-calorie beer .

Bud Light bottles are piled high in this Texas apartment. The evicted tenant left behind hundreds of empties and dozens of blue cardboard boxes — the signature carrying case of the low-calorie beer.
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newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Utah officials warn of outbreak of highly contagious rabbit  disease

Rabbits in Utah are being ravaged by a highly contagious hemorrhagic disease that is spreading across the state , as well as other parts of the US , including New York , according to a report .
The disease is caused by a calicivirus that affects both wild and domesticated rabbits , according to the nonprofit House Rabbit Society rescue group , ABC News reported .
It has been confirmed in both southern and northeastern Utah , according to the state Division of Wildlife .
The disease — which the US Department of Agriculture said does not affect humans — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but is thought to have originated in Europe .
There have since been confirmed cases in Europe , Africa , Asia , Australia and New Zealand , ABC News reported .
In the US , outbreaks also have been reported in New York , the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest .
Earlier this year , Arizona , Colorado , Nevada , New Mexico , Texas and multiple areas in Mexico also experienced outbreaks .
People are advised to look out for rabbits that appear to be bleeding from their mouths — and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is suspected that they handled an infected animal .

Rabbits in Utah are being ravaged by a highly contagious hemorrhagic disease that is spreading across the state, as well as other parts of the US, including New York, according to a report.
The disease is caused by a calicivirus that affects both wild and domesticated rabbits, according to the nonprofit House Rabbit Society rescue group, ABC News reported.
It has been confirmed in both southern and northeastern Utah, according to the state Division of Wildlife.
The disease — which the US Department of Agriculture said does not affect humans — was first detected in China in 1984 but is thought to have originated in Europe.
There have since been confirmed cases in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, ABC News reported.
In the US, outbreaks also have been reported in New York, the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest.
Earlier this year, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and multiple areas in Mexico also experienced outbreaks.
People are advised to look out for rabbits that appear to be bleeding from their mouths — and to disinfect hands or any equipment if it is suspected that they handled an infected animal.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Meghan Markle honors COVID-19 heroes in surprise appearance on CNN

Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance on CNN ’ s annual Heroes TV special Sunday to pay homage to the people who ’ ve made a difference in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic .
The Duchess of Sussex thanked the “ individuals ( who ) stood up and made sure the most basic needs of our communities were met ” in the past year , which she described as being “ universally challenging for everyone.
” The 39-year-old added : “ They made sure those around them did not have to suffer in isolation.
” Markle and her husband @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year that they were abandoning their roles as “ senior ” royals and relocated to California while the deadly bug was spreading across the globe .
The couple has been volunteering with several charities in the Los Angeles area .
In April , they delivered meals to city residents through Project Angel Food , a program to feed the chronically ill , CNN reported .
They recently distributed supplies to needy students with Baby2Baby and the Duke of Sussex was spotted volunteering with the Walker Family Events Foundation , which supports veterans and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ In the face of this devastating reality , we … saw the power of the human spirit and the remarkable ways that communities respond in challenging times , ” the Duchess said on CNN .
“ We saw the good in people , in our neighbors and in entire communities coming together to say they would not stand by while our neighbors went hungry , ” she continued .
“ We saw communities standing up and taking action .
When kids ’ lunch programs came to a halt , we saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received the nutrition they need .
And when those who are immunocompromised or most vulnerable couldn ’ t leave their homes , we as a community showed up to deliver the food they needed to their doorsteps , ” Markle said .
“ We know the value of food — as nourishment , as a life source — and in moments of crisis , the warmth of a meal can feel as comforting as a much-needed hug , especially in the absence of human contact due to the social distancing we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many that they ’ re cared for , ” she added .

Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance on the annual “CNN Heroes” TV special Sunday to pay homage to the people who’ve made a difference in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
The Duchess of Sussex thanked the “individuals (who) stood up and made sure the most basic needs of our communities were met” in the past year, which she described as being “universally challenging for everyone.”
The 39-year-old added: “They made sure those around them did not have to suffer in isolation.”
Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, announced earlier this year that they were abandoning their roles as “senior” royals and relocated to California while the deadly bug was spreading across the globe.
The couple has been volunteering with several charities in the Los Angeles area. In April, they delivered meals to city residents through Project Angel Food, a program to feed the chronically ill, CNN reported.
They recently distributed supplies to needy students with Baby2Baby, and the Duke of Sussex was spotted volunteering with the Walker Family Events Foundation, which supports veterans and their families, according to the network.
Meghan Markle makes a surprise appearance on CNN’s TV special. CNN
“In the face of this devastating reality, we … saw the power of the human spirit and the remarkable ways that communities respond in challenging times,” the Duchess said on CNN.
“We saw the good in people, in our neighbors and in entire communities coming together to say they would not stand by while our neighbors went hungry,” she continued.
“We saw communities standing up and taking action. When kids’ lunch programs came to a halt, we saw our neighbors make sure that those children received the nutrition they need. And when those who are immunocompromised or most vulnerable couldn’t leave their homes, we as a community showed up to deliver the food they needed to their doorsteps,” Markle said.
“We know the value of food — as nourishment, as a life source — and in moments of crisis, the warmth of a meal can feel as comforting as a much-needed hug, especially in the absence of human contact due to the social distancing we’re all experiencing. These moments reminded so many that they’re cared for,” she added.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--US Embassy says Sudan no longer on list of terror sponsors

CAIRO — The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum said Monday that President Donald Trump ’ s administration has removed Sudan from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism , a move that could help the African country get international loans to revive its battered economy and end its pariah status .
The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum said in a Facebook post that the removal of Sudan was effective as of Monday , and that a notification to that effect , signed by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo , would be published in the Federal Register .
It said the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The designation of Sudan as a state sponsor of terrorism dates back to the 1990s , when Sudan briefly hosted al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden and other wanted militants .
Sudan was also believed to have served as a pipeline for Iran to supply weapons to Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip .
Delisting Sudan is also a key incentive for the government in Khartoum to normalize relations with Israel .
The two countries have agreed to have full diplomatic ties , making Sudan the third Arab state — after the United Arab @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normalize relations with Israel this year .
After Sudan , Morocco also established diplomatic ties with Israel .
Sudanese Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan , head of the ruling sovereign council , hailed the move as “ historic decision ” by Trump ’ s administration .
He tweeted Monday that delisting Sudan would “ contribute to supporting the democratic transition.
” Sudan is on a fragile transition to democracy following an uprising that led to the military ’ s ouster of former autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019 .
The county is now ruled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that seeks better ties with Washington and the West .
In October , Trump announced that he would remove Sudan from the list if it follows through on its pledge to pay $ 335 million to American terror victims and their families .
Sudan has agreed to pay compensation for victims of the 1998 bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania , attacks carried out by al-Qaida while bin Laden was living in Sudan .
According to the October announcement , once the compensation money was deposited , Trump was to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terrorism list on which it has languished under heavy American sanctions for 27 years .
Since Trump ’ s announcement , the Sudanese government also inked an agreement with the U.S. that could effectively stop any future compensation claims being filed against the African country in U.S. courts .
That deal restores in U.S. courts what is known as sovereign immunity to the Sudanese government .
It would however enter into force after U.S. Congress passes legislation needed to implement the agreement .
Khartoum has said the $ 335 million in compensation money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until then .

CAIRO — The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum said Monday that President Donald Trump’s administration has removed Sudan from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that could help the African country get international loans to revive its battered economy and end its pariah status.
The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum said in a Facebook post that the removal of Sudan was effective as of Monday, and that a notification to that effect, signed by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, would be published in the Federal Register. It said the 45-day congressional notification period has lapsed.
The designation of Sudan as a state sponsor of terrorism dates back to the 1990s, when Sudan briefly hosted al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden and other wanted militants. Sudan was also believed to have served as a pipeline for Iran to supply weapons to Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip.
Delisting Sudan is also a key incentive for the government in Khartoum to normalize relations with Israel. The two countries have agreed to have full diplomatic ties, making Sudan the third Arab state — after the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain — to move to normalize relations with Israel this year. After Sudan, Morocco also established diplomatic ties with Israel.
Sudanese Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, head of the ruling sovereign council, hailed the move as “historic decision” by Trump’s administration. He tweeted Monday that delisting Sudan would “contribute to supporting the democratic transition.”
Sudan is on a fragile transition to democracy following an uprising that led to the military’s ouster of former autocratic President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. The county is now ruled by a joint military and civilian government that seeks better ties with Washington and the West.
In October, Trump announced that he would remove Sudan from the list if it follows through on its pledge to pay $335 million to American terror victims and their families. Sudan has agreed to pay compensation for victims of the 1998 bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, attacks carried out by al-Qaida while bin Laden was living in Sudan.
According to the October announcement, once the compensation money was deposited, Trump was to sign an order removing Sudan from the terrorism list on which it has languished under heavy American sanctions for 27 years.
Since Trump’s announcement, the Sudanese government also inked an agreement with the U.S. that could effectively stop any future compensation claims being filed against the African country in U.S. courts.
That deal restores in U.S. courts what is known as sovereign immunity to the Sudanese government. It would however enter into force after U.S. Congress passes legislation needed to implement the agreement. Khartoum has said the $335 million in compensation money would be held in an escrow account until then.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Blake Martinez starts for Giants despite missed practice

These numbers can ’ t be right .
Except they are .
Until the ...

Blake Martinez did not practice at all on Friday, which did not seem to be a good sign for his availability two days later manning the middle of the Giants’ defense.
But there was Martinez on Sunday, starting at inside linebacker, taking his normal reps on defense as the Giants were beaten, 26-7, by the Cardinals at MetLife Stadium.
“I just focused on getting better each and every day and [showing] the coaches that I had the ability to go out there and perform at the level I know I could,’’ Martinez said. “I trusted myself to go out there, and I felt good for the majority of the game. Just need to make sure I keep working on it to make sure I’m ready for this week and the coming practices.’’
Martinez, the team leader in tackles this season, was not as active as he usually is, finishing with seven tackles.
CB James Bradberry did not get the assignment of shadowing WR DeAndre Hopkins all over the field, as the Giants stayed in their zone responsibilities. Hopkins caught nine passes for 136 yards but only got past the defense one time, a 41-yard reception in the fourth quarter behind linebacker Tae Crowder.
The Giants were much better a week ago, limiting DK Metcalf of the Seahawks.
“We didn’t do as good as last week containing DeAndre Hopkins, but I still think he didn’t really wreck the game for us,’’ Bradberry said. “We just had a few mistakes on him.’’
Rookie CB Darnay Holmes (knee) missed his second game of the season and was inactive. Holmes started the past three games and was coming on strong as the slot cornerback. The absence of Holmes opened the door for increased playing time for rookie Xavier McKinney, who played just 11 snaps on defense in his first two games after undergoing foot surgery and coming off injured reserve.
Former Giants offensive lineman Justin Pugh, the Cardinals’ starting left guard, went out in the second half with a calf injury. Another former Giants player, LB Devon Kennard, had a stop for a one-yard loss on Alfred Morris early in the fourth quarter.
Rookie CB Jarren Williams, elevated off the practice squad, made his NFL debut, working on special teams. Williams played last season at the University at Albany.
Blake Martinez (left) makes a tackle for the Giants. Getty Images
The Cardinals (7-6) snapped a three-game losing streak to propel themselves back into the NFC wild-card race.
“Well, nothing beats winning,’’ Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury said. “That’s a good team that had won four in a row. They were playing for first place, they had everything to play for as well, so to come in here and do it in that fashion, I believe, will build confidence moving forward.’’
The Giants finished 1-3 against the NFC West this season and scored a total of only one touchdown in losses to the Cardinals, 49ers and Rams. … The Cardinals have now won four straight on the Giants, winning all four times on the road.


newyorkpost--2020-12-14--Two escaped inmates from Tennessee prison captured in Florida

Two men who were considered armed and dangerous after escaping a Tennessee prison were apprehended in Southern Florida on Sunday , authorities said .
Robert Lee Brown and Christopher Osteen were captured by the Broward County Sheriff ’ s Office and the U.S .
Marshals Service after fleeing jail and tying up two men before driving off with their vehicles , according to the Henry County Sheriff ’ s Office in Tennessee .
Brown and Osteen were inside a stolen pick up when they were found at about 8 p.m. , according to Florida ’ s Local10 News .
Both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortly after .
It was unclear how the men escaped on Friday morning but a short time later they kidnapped a man from a boat ramp on the Mississippi River and took off with his vehicle .
“ From statements made by the victim , who was blindfolded , it was believed that another vehicle had been taken by the escapees at an unknown location , ” the Henry County Sheriff ’ s Office said .
The men found their second victim in Paris , Tenn. later Friday night and tied him up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Brown , 36 , had been serving an 18-year sentence for aggravated rape .
Osteen , 34 , had been serving an eight-year sentence for burglary , reckless aggravated assault and theft .
They were both being housed by the Tennessee Department of Corrections on Sunday night .

Two men who were considered armed and dangerous after escaping a Tennessee prison were apprehended in Southern Florida on Sunday, authorities said.
Robert Lee Brown and Christopher Osteen were captured by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service after fleeing jail and tying up two men before driving off with their vehicles, according to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee.
Brown and Osteen were inside a stolen pick up when they were found at about 8 p.m., according to Florida’s Local10 News.
Both men fled on foot and were apprehended shortly after.
It was unclear how the men escaped on Friday morning but a short time later they kidnapped a man from a boat ramp on the Mississippi River and took off with his vehicle.
“From statements made by the victim, who was blindfolded, it was believed that another vehicle had been taken by the escapees at an unknown location,” the Henry County Sheriff’s Office said.
The men found their second victim in Paris, Tenn. later Friday night and tied him up before stealing his 2009 Chevrolet Silverado pickup.
Brown, 36, had been serving an 18-year sentence for aggravated rape. Osteen, 34, had been serving an eight-year sentence for burglary, reckless aggravated assault and theft.
They were both being housed by the Tennessee Department of Corrections on Sunday night.