The UFC title pictures at both lightweight and heavyweight seem pretty clear with regard to what's upcoming and what should happen afterward, but try telling that to UFC president Dana White. Let's start with lightweight: Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and interim titleholder Dustin Poirier will unify the title on Sept. 7 at UFC 242. After that, it's a no-brainer that Tony Ferguson should face the winner. For crying out loud, the guy is a former interim champ who never lost his belt and is on an incredible 12-fight winning streak. Over at heavyweight, champ Daniel Cormier will defend his title in a rematch with Stipe Miocic on Aug. 17 at UFC 241. It only makes sense that Francis Ngannou fights the winner after going on a three-fight first-round knockout tear against the division's top contenders. That all makes sense, doesn't it? But see, if you ask White what could prevent Ferguson and Ngannou from getting the title shots they've rightfully earned, you'll drive him bananas. And that's what happened during an interview with TSN's Aaron Bronsteter on Friday. Dana White on what could possibly happen that would preclude either Tony Ferguson or Francis Ngannou from getting the next title shot in their respective divisions Full interview: https://t.co/LNMfD9wTyt pic.twitter.com/ss6rXDI7fm - Aaron Bronsteter (@aaronbronsteter) July 6, 2019 "We can't talk about this. You guys love to talk about this dumb sh*t that isn't even here yet. You can't talk about something until it's here. 'What if this guy does this, and what if this guy' … who gives a sh*t? Until it happens. … To talk about this type of sh*t over and over and over again drives me (expletive) bananas." OK then. For more on upcoming UFC events, check out the UFC schedule . The Blue Corner is MMA Junkie's blog space. We don't take it overly serious, and neither should you. If you come complaining to us that something you read here is not hard-hitting news, expect to have the previous sentence repeated in ALL CAPS. MORE: NBA fans had fun taking shots at Drake after hearing Kawhi Leonard will join the Clippers Russell Westbrook Chased Away Another Star Teammate NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Kendrick Perkins confirms report about Kevin Durant's ending in OKC How does Kawhi Leonard's decision effect the Boston Celtics


If you've always wanted to spend a year in Paris to learn French or head to Japan to immerse yourself in a new culture, now is the time. According to the Institute of International Education, with the help of the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State, these were the top study abroad destinations for American students in the 2015-16 academic year. Study abroad: These are America's favorite destinations If you've always wanted to spend a year in Paris to learn French or head to Japan to immerse yourself in a new culture, now is the time. A study published in the Global Source for Science News says that living abroad increases one's "self-concept clarity," in other words, you find yourself. It may sound like a cliché, but living abroad will give you a better understanding of the differences between your home and other countries. This leads you to understand yourself and your priorities better. It's more than just beautiful architecture and incredible food although those don't hurt. "When you're out of your comfort zone, away from the friends, environment, and family that you know you are essentially starting from scratch," Jenn DeWall, Career & Life Coach, told Bustle . "The things that used to give you confidence, i.e. being the supportive friend, being the best at work, are no longer there to give you confidence. Living abroad requires that you discover and meet new people and build and evolve your sense of self to respond to the new challenges and situations of living abroad." While it may not be feasible for everyone to stop what they are doing and move to Thailand, something like study abroad offers a little six-month sample of what it would be like to live abroad. It's also a great way for students to develop necessary skills for adulthood as it pushes them out of their comfort zone. The Institute of International Education , with the help of the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State, compiles information about international students in the US and about Americans abroad . According to the non-profit's data, these were the top study abroad destinations for American students in the 2015-16 academic year. Click through this gallery and find out which of these countries piques your interest! 46. Vietnam Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,012 Percent change from previous year: 9.8% increase 45. Hungary Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,086 Percent change from previous year: 20.8% 44. Bahamas Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,137 Percent change from previous year: 26.3% 43. Jamaica Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,153 Percent change from previous year: 10.1% 42. Tanzania Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,254 Percent change from previous year: 3.1% 41. Panama Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,256 Percent change from previous year: 17.9% 40. Belgium Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,285 Percent change from previous year: -13% 39. Russia Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,319 Percent change from previous year: 11.1% 38. Morocco Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,403 Percent change from previous year: -0.7% 37. Sweden Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,441 Percent change from previous year: 2.6% 36. Ghana Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,564 Percent change from previous year: 112.2% 35. Hong Kong Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,612 Percent change from previous year: 6.7% 34. Canada Number of US students in 2015-16: 1,716 Percent change from previous year: 9.4% 33. Dominican Republic Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,001 Percent change from previous year: -6.8% 32. Switzerland Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,032 Percent change from previous year: 16.9% 31. Thailand Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,093 Percent change from previous year: -0.1% 30. Guatemala Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,202 Percent change from previous year: 4.4% 29. Nicaragua Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,320 Percent change from previous year: 20.2% 28. Israel Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,435 Percent change from previous year: -26.6% 27. Belize Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,703 Percent change from previous year: 4.4% 26. Chile Number of US students in 2015-16: 2,942 Percent change from previous year: -6.2% 25. Austria Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,216 Percent change from previous year: 0.2% 24. Brazil Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,400 Percent change from previous year: -11.4% 23. The Netherlands Number of US students in 2015-16: Percent change from previous year: 17.2% 22. Peru Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,515 Percent change from previous year: 0.9% 21. Greece Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,592 Percent change from previous year: -1% 20. South Korea Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,622 Percent change from previous year: 2.9% 19. Ecuador Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,751 Percent change from previous year: 0.1% 18. Cuba Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,781 Percent change from previous year: 58.6% 17. New Zealand Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,806 Percent change from previous year: 14.5% 16. Argentina Number of US students in 2015-16: 3,846 Percent change from previous year: 3.7% 15. India Number of US students in 2015-16: 4,181 Percent change from previous year: -5.8% 14. Czech Republic Number of US students in 2015-16: 4,610 Percent change from previous year: 12.6% 13. Denmark Number of US students in 2015-16: 4,632 Percent change from previous year: 14.8% 12. Mexico Number of US students in 2015-16: 5,178 Percent change from previous year: 9.9% 11. South Africa Number of US students in 2015-16: 5,782 Percent change from previous year: 10.2% 10. Japan Number of US students in 2015-16: 7,145 Percent change from previous year: 18% 9. Costa Rica Number of US students in 2015-16: 9,233 Percent change from previous year: -0.8% 8. Australia Number of US students in 2015-16: 9,536 Percent change from previous year: 8.2% 7. Ireland Number of US students in 2015-16: 11,070 Percent change from previous year: 8.2% 6. China Number of US students in 2015-16: 11,688 Percent change from previous year: -8.6% 5. Germany Number of US students in 2015-16: 11,900 Percent change from previous year: 8.1% 4. France Number of US students in 2015-16: 17,214 Percent change from previous year: -5.4% 3. Spain Number of US students in 2015-16: 29,975 Percent change from previous year: 5.8% 2. Italy Number of US students in 2015-16: 34,894 Percent change from previous year: 3.3% 1. United Kingdom Number of US students in 2015-16: 39,140 Percent change from previous year: 2.5%


A rriving in Hong Kong is a confrontation with sleek, imposing buildings, narrow sidewalks, and people, people, and more people. Not to mention the cacophony of noises, the smells of pollution mixed with frying foods and fragrant tea, and the feeling of claustrophobia that might start to sneak into your consciousness if you ride the MTR train during rush hour. "They say a New York minute passes in a Hong Kong second and the city really does seem to move at an impossibly fast pace," says Kate Springer, a Hong Kong expert for membership-based travel club Essentialist , who has lived in the city for seven years. And the crowds that come with a city of nearly 7.5 million in one of the most densely populated areas in the world are nothing to sniff at. It's a revelation then, to discover that Hong Kong has numerous pockets of calm where locals and visitors alike can rest their weary bones for a minute or 30. "What surprises many people is how easy it is to escape," says Springer. "In just 20 to 30 minutes, you can be on a hiking trail, on an outlying island, or on an incredible beach." Here are some of our favorite ways to escape the buzz of Hong Kong and find a moment of peace, without having to travel far from the city center or at all. Tai Kwun The city has hidden respites and peaceful nooks all over it, if you know where to look. Central, the main downtown neighborhood of Hong Kong, is home to Tai Kwun , a new cultural center that happens to be inside an old police station compound. Hidden behind its walls is a large courtyard lined with cafés that have plenty of outdoor seating and restored and new buildings housing everything from a modern art gallery to performing arts spaces to places dedicated to the history of the police barracks and jail that were once there. An especially peaceful spot is the balcony at Old Bailey restaurant, where you can slurp noodles or sip tea as you watch the hubbub below. Victoria Peak/Morning Trail Taking the tram up to Victoria Peak is on almost every tourist's Hong Kong list. And while it can be fun, it can also mean a long line and a crowded ride. But being at the top of Victoria Peak is worth it panoramic city views, lots of greenery, and fresh air in abundance await. To avoid the crowds and maximize outdoor time, take the one-hour walk (be prepared: it's paved but steep) up the Morning Trail to the Peak and enjoy the surrounding nature in peace. The Upper House A hotel might not be the most obvious place to find peace and quiet, but in Hong Kong's sea of skyscrapers this one is worth seeking out. Located on the upper floors of a tall building in the heart of Central and designed by Andre Fu, the Upper House is a lesson in minimalism, with lots of straight lines, soothing wood, and tasteful art. If you can splurge on a room, you'll immediately feel at home in the massive studios that have some of the largest bathrooms in the city a perfect haven. We were told upon checking in, "If you haven't taken a bath in your room, then you haven't really stayed at the Upper House." Seeing the massive, deep soaking tub with a stunning backdrop of the skyline, it all makes sense. If you're not spending the night, it's still worth heading up to the 49th floor for breakfast or afternoon tea at Café Gray Deluxe. Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden You're already getting further from the nexus of Hong Kong and its throngs of people when you head to Chi Lin Nunnery and the adjacent Nan Lian Garden, located in the middle of Kowloon Island. The Nunnery is a large Buddhist temple complex originally built in 1934 in traditional Chinese style, made from wood and without the use of any nails. The 360,000 square-foot complex has 16 halls, a library, a school, a pagoda, a bell tower, a drum tower, and multiple lotus ponds. To say you can hear a pin drop here is an understatement. Across the road (reached via a footpath) is Nan Lian Garden, a beautiful classical Chinese garden that covers 380,000 square feet and includes a traditional teahouse, vegetarian restaurant, café, and gift shop with some of the best souvenirs in the city. Grassroots Pantry The street food in Hong Kong is amazing. The dumpling shacks, noodle houses, and dim sum restaurants are all must-dos. But all of that fried goodness comes with a price (hello, lethargy) and the atmospheres are not exactly calm. Allow us to suggest a break from the grease and crowds in the form of a delightful vegetarian oasis on busy Hollywood Road. Grassroots Pantry , the brainchild of chef/owner Peggy Chan, serves satisfying and healthy food that uses 90 percent organic ingredients, with much of it locally sourced. You can still find noodles and dumplings (well, gyoza ), but they're filled with veggies and whole grains and sit alongside dishes like beetroot carpaccio and jackfruit rendang . The decor is calming as well, with clean lines, neutral tones, and plenty of plant life and sunlight. Hong Kong Park City parks are often ideal places to pause and Hong Kong Park, by busy Cotton Tree Drive in Central, is no different. But this park offers more than some trees. It's home to an aviary with over 80 species of birds, a greenhouse, and numerous fountains, waterfalls, and well-kept lily ponds. Also inside the park are the quiet and lovely Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware , the Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre , a restaurant, and even a marriage registry (should you feel so inclined). The park also offers a serene vantage point to take in the surrounding skyscrapers. The Peninsula's Pool and Spa A true Hong Kong grand dame, the Peninsula Hong Kong is the five-star hotel chain's flagship and has luxury dripping from its gold-ensconced lobby pillars. But while the lobby is bustling, the hotel's majestic indoor pool (marble columns and an uninterrupted view of the Hong Kong skyline) is an oasis of calm, and the spa is truly a sanctuary in the city. It features Chinese design elements with a modern touch, using marble, rustic woods, and textured granite. Bliss out in the hammam-style steam rooms, saunas, and crescent-shaped, aromatherapy showers before or after a treatment for ultimate relaxation. Sai Kung The beach may not be front-of-mind when planning a Hong Kong trip, but it's actually one of the city's best features and the perfect place to get away from it all for a few hours. "I love to visit Sai Kung , in the northeastern New Territories," says Springer. "You can hike to find the territory's best beaches they're all located around Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) and they get more pristine the farther north you go." Outlying Islands Hong Kong is actually an archipelago but most people live on and visit two main islands: Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula, which are a quick ferry ride away from each other. But there are 261 other islands to explore, and many offer an escape from the center of the city. Most well known is Lantau (the largest and also home to Hong Kong Disneyland) but others, like Cheung Chau, Lamma, and Peng Chau, are more tranquil. One of Springer's favorites is Peng Chau: "There's an ancient temple, seafood restaurants, a small village, and an accessible hiking trail that provides great views of the sea," she says. RELATED VIDEO: Key Things To Research Before Traveling to A New Country (via Buzz60)


Aston Martin Lagonda's shares plunged by almost a fifth after the luxury carmaker reported a near-£80m loss in the first half as demand from dealers slumped in the UK and across Europe. The beleaguered company, which last week issued a shock profit warning that sparked a share price fall of more than a quarter, reported a pre-tax loss of £78.8m in the six months to the end of June. Aston Martin floated at £19 a share last October but the latest drop in the price has taken the shares below the £5 mark, at 469p. The 106-year old company behind James Bond's favourite car marque has lost almost 80% of its stock market value since flotation, plummeting from £4.3bn to £1bn. Its chief executive, Andy Palmer, argued that the business had performed well in the first half, despite deteriorating economic conditions, and that the problem relates to demand from dealers. Sales to dealers in the UK and across Europe, the Middle East and Africa slumped by a fifth in the first half. However, strong demand in the markets including the US and China helped total wholesales to rise by 6% to 2.4m in the first half. Retail sales rose 26% in the first half. "The trading environment worsened in the first half, although retail and wholesale [overall] increased," he said. "We are keeping a profile where demand exceeds supply, which is key for a luxury company. In order to protect the position of the brand we thought it right and proper to cut wholesale [forecasts] and don't end up making the mistakes of history and discounting cars to get them away." Aston Martin has slashed its annual sales forecast from a range of 7,100 to 7,300, saying it now expects to sell 6,500, reflecting low orders from car dealers concerned that they will not be able to sell them. Palmer said that the company has so far only had to spend a "negligible" amount on Brexit preparations but did not want a no-deal exit from the European Union. Gallery: Most memorable James Bond cars (Motoring Research) "In the case of a deal we are prepared and relatively well insulated but not immune," he said. "Obviously, we do not want a no-deal Brexit because of the disruption that causes with issues at the border. We will live with it if that is what it is. The car industry is pretty resilient once it knows what it is dealing with. We need certainty." On Wednesday the UK's car industry body, SMMT, said that investment in Britain's car industry slumped to a "pitiful" £90m in the first half because of fears over Brexit. Over the last seven years average annual investment in research and development has been £2.5bn to £2.7bn.


Wide receiver Reggie White Jr. is quick to let people know that he's not the son of that Reggie White. His father did play defensive line in the NFL, but he did it for the Chargers and Patriots in the mid-90s and did not earn a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. White said "that's the first question I get, everywhere I go" and that he feels like he lets people down when he lets them know the truth. White played college football in New Jersey for Monmouth and the local product caught the eye of the Giants on his way to signing with them as an undrafted free agent. Upon arriving, he found out that he'd be answering questions about his number in addition to his father. "I went to the equipment room to get measured for my helmet, I looked down at the sheet , saw '13' and was like, that's Odell's number," White said, via Art Stapleton of NorthJersey.com. "I knew I was going to get that, too, and I'm just happy to have a jersey. It didn't matter what number they gave me, if they wanted me to wear double zero, I'd wear double zero, I'm just blessed to be here. All credit goes to Odell, he's a hell of a player, I'm just happy to be with the Giants and have a jersey." White added that he's "just worried about playing my game and not worrying about trying to be anybody else," and it seems unlikely that anyone's expecting him to do what Beckham did for the Giants. No one with the team would mind if he could follow in the footsteps of former Monmouth wideouts Miles Austin and Chris Hogan to carve out a pro career, though.


The 2019 Ford Ranger has officially been rated by the IIHS after going through its full battery of tests, and the results are favorable. If not for a "Marginal" headlight rating, the Ranger would be a Top Safety Pick. Pickup trucks rarely get such impressive scores in the IIHS tests. Not only are they impressive on their own, but the major category ratings are exactly the same as the 2019 Toyota Tacoma . There is one midsize truck that got a slightly better rating than the Ranger, though, and that's the Honda Ridgeline . It received the same overall crashworthiness ratings as the Ranger, but with one of its headlight options receiving a "Good" rating, it bests the Ranger and gets a Top Safety Pick rating to go along with it. Does that mean the Ridgeline crashes much better than the Ranger? Not exactly. The most we can say is that the headlights are better on the Honda . We can, however, say the Ranger bested the Chevrolet Colorado and Nissan Frontier in the IIHS crash tests . Unfortunately, the IIHS still hasn't tested a Jeep Gladiator . Research the Ford Ranger on MSN Autos The IIHS rated the Ranger "Good" in every crash test except for the tricky passenger-side small overlap test. It received an "Acceptable" rating there, just like the Tacoma and Ridgeline. Ford 's front crash prevention system worked as intended in the IIHS test. It stopped the truck from 12 mph, avoiding a collision. Then it managed to reduce its speed by 24 mph from 25 mph in the similar, higher-speed test. To read more about the Ranger, check out our midsize pickup comparison test , where we pitted it against the top dogs of the class on and off the road. 2019 Ford Ranger performs remarkably well in IIHS crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on 2019-07-01


MIRAMAR (CBSMiami)   Miramar police have arrested a man for drugging and sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl. That girl is currently listed in critical condition. Police say 18-year-old Jorge Martinez met the victim at a party she was throwing at her Miramar home on Monday. According to police, Martinez gave the victim Percocet and took her to another location. Later, friends of the victim spotted what police say was her naked body lying on a couch in a social media post. Police found her at the home where Martinez was staying. She is currently being treated at Nicklaus Children's Hospital. Martinez is being held on $550,000 bond.


Though Montana Gov. Steve Bullock seemed primed for a battle with the Democratic National Committee to let him take the stage for the first Democratic debate in June, he gave no indication following the organization's official announcement of qualifying candidates Thursday evening that he would challenge the decision. "I'm disappointed with the DNC," Bullock said in an interview with MSNBC's Chuck Todd. But asked if he would challenge the DNC's decision, Bullock demurred. "Chuck, you just showed the board of everyone that's going to be on there, so certainly, you know   disappointed," he said, referring to a graphic of each of the 20 candidates who will be on the stage, including frontrunners like former Vice President Joe Biden and lesser-known candidates like entrepreneur Andrew Yang. "I certainly knew getting in at the time I did would give me fewer opportunities to be on shows with you and others, but I had a job to do and if it ultimately ever came down to choosing between getting Medicaid reauthorized, getting 100,000 Montanans health care, versus getting in earlier just to bump up on another poll, I would make that same choice time and time again," he said. Bullock, who announced his bid a month ago, waited until the Montana legislative session concluded to enter the race. Despite the late entry, the governor was on the cusp of meeting the DNC's requirements and briefly considered by media outlets to have met the threshold up until a recent DNC rule change, which removed one of the polls that would've qualified the Montana governor for the stage. The rule change led to a Hail Mary effort late Wednesday night, just hours before the DNC began certifying each candidate for the stage. Bullock's campaign manager Jennifer Ridder wrote a letter to DNC Chairman Tom Perez and told him they had submitted documents to join the debate. Bullock "has met the threshold for qualification for the first debate," Ridder argued Wednesday, and "looks forward to joining his colleagues on the stage for this important occasion." Bullock, who has centered his campaign on his ability to win over Montana voters who also support President Donald Trump, also made the case in an op-ed Wednesday that the DNC not including him in the debate would be a sign the Democratic Party has not "learned the right lesson from the 2016 election ." And in a video his campaign released, a Montana resident touted Bullock's work on health care over the importance of being on the debate stage. "He's the only Democrat for President who won a Trump state, but you won't see Governor Steve Bullock at the first debate, and I'm the reason why," a Montana resident and Medicaid recipient Madison Johnson said in the campaign video. "I'm sorry Steve got started too late to make the first debate. I'm asking for your help to get him on the stage this Fall." The DNC rules for the June and July debates stipulate a candidate must either net at least 1% in three national or early-state polls conducted between January 2019 and two weeks before a given debate, or receive donations from over 65,000 people across 20 states, with a minimum of 200 unique donors per state. Bullock only qualified in two polls accepted by the DNC and did not meet the donor threshold. (MORE: Here's how the first 2020 Democratic presidential debates work) Previously, media outlets including POLITICO, MSNBC and ABC News had considered Bullock to have hit the polling threshold in three polls, including a Washington Post/ABC News poll, but the DNC later publicly said that poll was not eligible because it was open-ended. A spokesperson for the DNC said they made the Bullock campaign aware that the poll would not count back in March. But in her letter Wednesday, Ridder defended the February poll results, saying "polling experts agree that it's actually harder to get 1% in an open-ended vote question than when a list is provided." She argued that the DNC didn't specify against open-ended polls in its original rules or certification rules. "Since there is no sufficient warrant to exclude such a poll in either of the original rules or in the Polling Method Certification form promulgated by the DNC this week, the poll meets the DNC requirements and is valid," Ridder wrote. The DNC did not respond to a request for comment from ABC News. (MORE: 20 presidential candidates qualify for first Democratic National Committee debates, reaching limit) Two other 2020 candidates, Miramar, Florida, Mayor Wayne Messam and Massachusetts Rep. Seth Moulton, also fell short of the debate qualifications. Messam, whose hometown of Miramar is just minutes from where the first debate will be held in June in Miami, told ABC News last week that he wasn't sure of the "system or rationale" behind the requirements developed by the DNC. "But it'll definitely stifle the diversity of candidates that would be able to be heard on the debate stage," Messam predicted. Messam didn't hit the donor threshold and hit 1% in one poll. In an interview on MSNBC last week, Moulton, who did not hit the donor threshold or 1% in any polls, said he hadn't expected to make the first debate because he entered the race later than most candidates. "I have a seven-month-old daughter at home so it simply wasn't an option to get in earlier," said Moulton, who announced his bid in late April. "But the response on the ground has been fantastic and ultimately, this election is not going to be decided by the DNC debates, it's going to be decided by the American people, so that's where I'm focusing my efforts." And there's a long road ahead, a campaign spokesperson pointed out. "At this point in 2016 Trump wasn't even in the race. In 2008, Hillary Clinton was the presumed nominee, and in 2004 we were preparing for President Howard Dean," said Moulton's national press secretary Matt Corridoni.


Curious just how far your dollar goes in Upper Fells Point? According to Walk Score, this Baltimore neighborhood is very walkable, is quite bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. Data from rental site Zumper shows that the median rent for a one bedroom in Upper Fells Point is currently hovering around $1,100. So, what might you expect to find if you don't want to spend more than $1,200 / month on rent? Read on for a roundup of the latest rental listings, via Zumper. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 201 S. Madeira St. Listed at $1,195/month, this 546-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom townhouse is located at 201 S. Madeira St. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors. Pets are not welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. (Check out the complete listing here .) 1927 E. Pratt St. Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom situated at 1927 E. Pratt St. It's also listed for $1,195/month for its 780 square feet of space. In the apartment, there is central heating and air conditioning, large closets, a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. Building amenities include assigned parking and extra storage space. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (See the complete listing here .) 2019 E. Pratt St., #3R Here's an 810-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at 2019 E. Pratt St., #3R that's going for $1,150/month. In the unit, you will find in-unit laundry, central heating and air conditioning and large windows with views. Hairball alert: cats are permitted. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. (Check out the complete listing here .) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Interested in getting intel on the newest restaurant and retail additions to Northern Liberties? From a multi-purpose park to a cocktail ba, read on for a rundown of the newest hotspots to open their doors in this area of Philadelphia. Piazza Pod Park 1075 Germantown Ave. Piazza Pod Park is a new park in the area. Piazza Pod Park is a multi-use park with restaurants, bars, fitness spaces and retail spots, according to Philly Mag . Vendors include Mama Maria's Italian Ice, Urban Village Brewing Company and Cantonese and Shanghai spot Little Sum Sum. Piazza Pod Park's current Yelp rating of 3.5 stars out of 14 reviews indicates the newcomer is finding its way, but it's still early days. Yelper Araba N., who reviewed Piazza Pod Park on June 21, wrote , "The food was excellent from the vendors, along with the ample seating, nice set list, good vibes from the DJ and free parking. There was nowhere to hide from the sun. A couple beach umbrellas could go a long way here." Piazza Pod Park is open from 7 a.m. 10 p.m. on Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. midnight on Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. 10 p.m. on Sunday. Benita Bianca Hair Salon 421 Fairmount Ave. Benita Bianca Hair Salon is a hair stylist and waxing spot. Benita Bianca Hair Salon specializes in women and men's haircuts, waxing and specialty hair coloring, along with extensions and wigs. According to the business' Facebook page , "This airy boutique salon welcomes you with giant bay windows and luxurious shampoo chairs. Benita Bianca specializes in creating undone, relaxed and glamorous looks with an emphasis in color." Yelp users are excited about Benita Bianca Hair Salon, which currently holds five stars out of 23 reviews on the site. Yelper Katrina R., who reviewed Benita Bianca Hair Salon on July 13, wrote , "The salon is also super clean, bright and always has good music and tasty teas and infused waters. It's a friendly and welcoming environment." Yelper Amanda J. wrote , "Their prices are fair and consistent, and they use the highest quality products. The space has high ceilings, large windows and natural lighting. The shampoo bowls are extremely comfortable as well as the salon chairs." Benita Bianca Hair Salon is open from 10 a.m. 8 p.m. on Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. 4 p.m. on Saturday. (It's closed on Monday and Sunday.) Germantown Garden 1029 Germantown Ave. Germantown Garden is a cocktail bar and traditional American spot. This new business offers an indoor and outdoor bar and lounge area. On the menu, start with veggie skewers or truffle fries. For a heartier meal, look for burgers, chicken sandwiches and hot dogs paired with one of its wine, cocktail or beer selections. With a 4.5-star Yelp rating out of three reviews on Yelp, Germantown Garden has been getting positive attention. Mike S., who was among the first Yelpers to review the new spot on July 4, wrote, "The cheesesteak is literally to die for. The staff is attentive and the cocktails are tasty. The spot is pet friendly, too." Yelper Jenny S. added , "The spot had a live DJ, and the staff was constantly grilling out on the patio. It smelled so good; you wouldn't be able to resist ordering. They also have an indoor, more lounge-y area." Germantown Garden is open from 5 p.m. 11 p.m. on Monday-Wednesday, 5 p.m. 1 a.m. on Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. midnight on Saturday and 11 a.m. 10 p.m. on Sunday. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Welcome back to Eater News , a semi-regular round-up of mini news bites. Have info to share? Email intel to seattle@eater.com. Capitol Hill Gets an Rx for High-End Drinks Filled According to Capitol Hill Blog , an intriguing new bar called The Doctor's Office focusing on Japanese whiskey and grilled skewers plans to open this fall in the spot recently vacated by Korean restaurant Blue Stone Bistro , which announced its closing earlier this week. The bar is the brainchild of an actual doctor   Matthew Powell, MD   who has teamed up bar expert Keith Waldbauer on the project. Patrons should expect an intimate experience in the small 12-seat tasting room and bar on East Olive Way, including hot hand towels, champagne, and an introduction to rare spirits. We All Scream for Five Courses of Ice Cream Ice cream goes with everything, right? At least that's the general concept behind the pop-up dinner on July 14 planned between popular Northwest chain Salt and Straw and the grill-centric restaurant Ciudad . For $150, diners can expect a five-course meal at Ciudad's Georgetown patio that features dukkah spiced snap peas and asparagus with roasted carrot soft serve and dungeness crab served with grilled sweet corn salad topped with avocado and buttermilk Dippin' Dots. Guess there's no need to save room for dessert. Beer That Will Do Some Good? West Seattle has a new brewery in the works, with a philanthropic twist. The Good Society Brewery and Public House will open later this year at 2701 California Avenue SW, and the two co-founders told West Seattle Blog that they have a mission to generate a positive impact on the community with each pour, funding local social and environmental causes. They'll also have 20 beers on tap (most of which they'll be brewing on their own), including IPAs, farmhouse ales, stouts, lagers, and kettle sours, and a small kitchen serving up flatbreads, sandwiches, and other small plates.


The Butte County Sheriff identified a 96-year-old woman as one of the 85 people who lost their lives in the Camp Fire. Ethel Riggs, of Paradise, died in the Camp Fire. The Camp Fire was the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California state history, killing 85 people. More than 14,000 homes and businesses were destroyed and the town of Paradise was devastated. Around 50,000 people evacuated their homes in Butte County on Nov. 8, 2018, and at one point, there more than 1,000 people unaccounted for. As of May 24, 75 victims have been positively identified and eight have been tentatively identified. Two other victims have still not been identified. Cal Fire representatives said earlier this month the deadly wildfire was started by PG&E equipment . Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey said the company could face charges as serious as 85 counts of manslaughter . WATCH MORE on ABC10: California Wildfires: The New Normal California's leaders tell us we've entered a "new normal" of more intense wildfires. The truth is: Experts think the deadly mega-fires we've seen are just a preview of the new normal.


The Rashard Robinson experiment is officially over. On Friday, the Jets waived Robinson along with wide receiver Stacy Coley and defensive lineman Charles Tapper to make room for 16 undrafted free agent signings. We've waived WR Stacy Coley, CB Rashard Robinson and DL Charles Tapper. https://t.co/rowqItuxzU pic.twitter.com/MhcIbG2DCH - New York Jets (@nyjets) May 10, 2019 In October 2017, the Jets traded a 2018 fifth-round draft pick for Robinson. At the time, New York desperately needed cornerback depth with Buster Skrine, Morris Claiborne and Xavier Coleman all sidelined with injuries. Instead of providing an instant impact, Robinson struggled to learn the defense and did not make much of an impact in his first season with the Jets Things didn't get much better in 2018, as Robinson was suspended for the first four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. In his tenure with the Jets, Robinson appeared in 16 games was credited with only 10 tackles. Coley originally signed a reserve/futures contract with the Jets in January. He appeared in seven games with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants from 2017-18. However, he did not record a reception with either team. A fourth-round pick of the Cowboys in 2016, Tapper appeared in just two games for the team that drafted him. Like Coley, Tapper signed a reserve/futures deal in January. MORE: The full story from the guy who got Danica Patrick a drink at the Bucks-Celtics game NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players 3 Raiders players who could have breakout seasons in 2019 There's still room for Josh Jones in the Packers defense Lakers players feel embarrassed after coaching search debacle


The Green Bay Packers hosted the Houston Texans for the second of two joint practices on Tuesday morning at Ray Nitschke Field across the street from Lambeau Field. Here are some observations and quick hits from the practice: - The majority of my time was spent watching the Packers' first-team defense against the Texans' first-team offense. The main takeaway, from both Monday and Tuesday: Za'Darius Smith is a game-wrecking machine. The Texans couldn't block him. Left tackle Matt Kalil really couldn't block him. Smith is so powerful and so good at collapsing the pocket. On the final play of the two-minute drill, Smith whooped his man and then got pushed into DeShaun Watson, causing a collision. It would have been sack regardless. He also had another sack earlier in the period after stunting outside from an inside position. The $66 million for Smith looks like money well spent for the Packers. - While Smith was the star Tuesday, the rest of the Packers defensive front was also very good. They made life consistently uncomfortable for Watson. Late in the two-minute work, the Packers collapsed the pocket immediately and forced Watson to throw on the run to this right, and safety Adrian Amos made a leaping interception in the back of the end zone. - Right guard Billy Turner looks like the real deal. Twice during the first team period, Turner had a noteworthy block. On the first, he drove his man out of the play and about five yards down the field. A few plays later, he escorted veteran defensive lineman Angelo Blackson to the ground. Turner can really move people in the run game. - The first two plays of the Packers' first-team offense vs. Texans first-team defense were a handoff to fullback Danny Vitale and then a throw to Vitale. He's a legit part of the offense. - Overall, the offense struggled during the two days. They were sloppy during the first period, with Jimmy Graham and Robert Tonyan both committing false start penalties. And they weren't great during 7-on-7 work in the red zone. The whole operation looks like a work in progress. Coach Matt LaFleur wasn't pleased with the performance. - Do the Packers have a backup quarterback? Both DeShone Kizer and Tim Boyle struggled through two days of ugly work in team drills. Green Bay Packers linebacker Rashan Gary (52) during practice at Clarke Hinkle Field on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 in Ashwaubenon, Wis. - Rookie Rashan Gary was dominant during the one-on-one pass-rushing drills. He beat Matt Kalil with a powerful bull rush and then sprinted right past Max Scharping for another win. He's getting more and more reps with the first-team defense, especially in obvious passing situations. The more opportunities to get him and Za'Darius Smith on the field together, the better. - Punter JK Scott kicked nine times against a live defense. He started slow, with four bad punts to start, but his final five were terrific. The final two were approaching five seconds of hang time, and with the appropriate direction. The final punt was covered perfectly by Jake Kumerow along the near sideline. Scott can be a great punter, but he needs to be more consistent to take the next step. - The second-team defense gave up a big play in the two-minute drill. Safety Natrell Jamerson was in position to make the interception, but his misread the ball and the Texans receiver made the play in front of him. A guy fighting for a roster spot needs to make that play. - Cornerback Tony Brown got beat by Will Fuller for a touchdown in the corner of the end zone early in the third-down passing drill, but later he smothered DeAndre Hopkins and knocked away a pass from Watson. - Linebacker Oren Burks allowed a touchdown pass early in team drills. - Rookie Darrius Shepherd replaced Trevor Davis (stinger) as the first man up at punt returner. Earlier in the practice, Shepherd caught a pass from Aaron Rodgers during the red zone period but was penalized for offensive pass interference. It was a good call. Shepherd pushed off. - Tight end Jace Sternberger returned to practice after two big hits Monday, but he was out Tuesday. The team said he is being evaluated for a concussion and also has a jaw injury. MORE: 'Bachelor in Paradise' 2019 cast guide: Meet all 37 contestants Packers training camp practice roundup: August 6 with Texans 5 takeaways from the Raiders' first depth chart of 2019 season WATCH: Packers rookie OLB Rashan Gary whips Texans LT Matt Kalil 4 takeaways from Patriots' second joint practice against Lions


Curious just how far your dollar goes in Jersey City? We've rounded up the latest rental offerings via rental sites Zumper and Apartment Guide to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to locating a rental in Jersey City if you've got $3,300/month earmarked for your rent. Take a look at the listings below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 65 Bay St. (The Waterfront) First, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom abode over at 65 Bay St. It's listed for $3,203/month for its 736 square feet. For building amenities, expect a residents lounge, a fitness center and a swimming pool. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are welcome on this property. The listing specifies a $1,000 security deposit. According to Walk Score's assessment, this location has excellent walkability, is relatively bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here .) 200 Greene St. (The Waterfront) Next, check out this 612-square-foot studio apartment that's located at 200 Greene St. It's listed for $3,225/month. The unit boasts a balcony. Building amenities include a fitness center and a swimming pool. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are welcome. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is quite walkable, is bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here .) 388 Monmouth St. Located at 388 Monmouth St., here's a 1,200-square-foot two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment that's listed for $3,231/month. In the apartment, look for a walk-in closet and a dishwasher. Good news for animal lovers: both dogs and cats are welcome here. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. According to Walk Score's assessment, the surrounding area is extremely walkable, is quite bikeable and has excellent transit. (Check out the complete listing here .) 18 Park View Ave. Finally, listed at $3,247/month, this 822-square-foot two-bedroom, two-bathroom abode is located at 18 Park View Ave. In the unit, anticipate hardwood floors, a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. The building features a fitness center. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are permitted. According to Walk Score's assessment, the surrounding area is extremely walkable, is very bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (Check out the complete listing here .) Working with a tight budget? Here are the cheapest rentals recently listed in Jersey City . This story was created automatically using local real estate data from Zumper and Apartment Guide , then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


The weather report shows mostly cloudy skies are in store for Santa Ana through Monday, according to drone-powered weather forecasting service Saildrone . Skies will become fully overcast on Tuesday. There is no chance of rain for the next seven days. Temperatures will stay warm, with a high of 76 degrees today, and highs remaining above 70 for the remainder of the week. Winds will be somewhat calm, with the highest speeds today at just 9 mph. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


While new owner Alex Meruelo has made it clear he's committed to keeping the Coyotes in Arizona, he also didn't go as far as to say he wants to keep the team in Glendale, Arizona. The Coyotes have struggled financially at Gila River Arena, and Meruelo may be interested in moving the team elsewhere, calling Glendale, "a difficult situation." Meruelo said there are several reasons why Glendale may not be an ideal location in Arizona, including the team keeps losing money, most fans don't live in Glendale, sponsorship there has been difficult and the team does not have a long-term lease. However, AZ Central's Jen Fifield reports that the leaders of the city of Glendale hope to have a meeting with Meruelo "to see how we can help him achieve his goals of success." However, Meruelo has said he's looking to find a new arena in Arizona. The team is currently on a year-to-year arena lease and the owner has said Glendale "is not viable long-term." There is more news from the Pacific Division: Many eyes went wide this summer when talented restricted free- agent winger Kevin Labanc re-signed with San Jose on a one-year, $1M deal. Most thought Labanc could have gotten quite a bit more. NHL.com's Adam Kimmelman reports that Labanc admits he put the team first when he signed this deal. "I didn't want to wait," he said following a Checking For Charity game at Flyers Skate Zone on Friday. "I wanted to sign the contract, get myself ready for the upcoming year and have nothing hanging over my shoulder." Labanc, who will be a restricted agent once again next summer, could be in line for a big payday as his role with the Sharks is likely to increase with the losses of Joe Pavelski , Joonas Donskoi and Gustav Nyquist during the offseason. Labanc had a solid year last season, posting career highs in goals (17) and points (56) and saw his ATOI improve as the season went on, averaging 15:26 in April despite averaging just 13:34 before the All-Star break. With a recent bias over the importance of height in goaltenders, The Athletic's Darren Haynes writes that the Calgary Flames seem to be heading toward an anti-establishment policy on goalies. In fact, most of Calgary's goalie draft picks in recent years have been smaller players, including Tyler Parsons , who at 6-foot-1 is not considered to be ranked at the 15th percentile in height. In comparison, he would have been considered in the 89th percentile in 1984-85. The Flames seem to be opting to go against those trends as the team is also loaded with shorter goaltenders, including 2019 seventh-rounder Dustin Wolf at 5-foot-11 and Nick Schneider , who is one of their tallest prospects at 6-foot-2.


Video by CBS New York The Flight Center at JFK's TWA Hotel, Sunken Lounge, and Connie form a beautiful vision of bygone '60s glamour that influencers will love. But it's no NYC destination.The Flight Center at the new TWA Hotel has a pre-apocalyptic vibe. Pure white concrete, with gestural wings, the Eero Saarinen-designed former terminal is forever suspended in the Golden Age of flying. We know, though, that destruction is coming for this way of life -- '60s glamour, sexy stewardesses, pre-9/11 security, smoking on planes. "He wanted the…Flight Center to express the drama and wonder of air travel," reads a quote by Aline Saarinen, Eero's wife, pasted onto the Flight Center's wall. "He wanted to provide a building in which the human being felt uplifted, important and full of anticipation." Air travel's still full of drama, all right, what with the French bulldogs being stuffed into overhead compartments and bloodied doctors being dragged off planes. But any feeling of wonder or anticipation is long gone: Instead, we're barefoot and humiliated, having our underwire wanded by the TSA before being stuffed into a tiny seat without a snack for seven hours. When I ask Google Maps for transit directions from my home in Brooklyn to the TWA Hotel on a Sunday afternoon, I get an error message: Sorry, we could not calculate transit directions from "Home" to "TWA Hotel, JFK Airport, Jamaica, NY 11430." I try typing in JFK's Terminal 5, from which you can access the hotel, but the A train isn't running past Rockaway Boulevard, so I'd have to take a shuttle bus to the AirTrain; the trip, all told, would take a little under two hours. Each way. I check Lyft, but a ride to the airport would cost me 80 bucks. I give up and drive -- $48 valet parking is beginning to sound like a bargain. Walking into the Flight Center, I'm greeted by a ticking departures board and a hostess dressed in a purple polyester TWA uniform. Saarinen's graceful staircase soars overhead; the Sunken Lounge, a conversation-pit cocktail bar, features huge panes of glass with a view of a restored TWA plane on the long-abandoned runway. Frank Sinatra plays over the speakers; when the song ends, Nancy Sinatra comes on. Signs of the apocalypse betray the space's throwback cosplay. Weary travelers in sweatpants and cargo shorts nap in the hotel lobby. An elderly couple clutching Dunkin' cups bicker over how to get home to Fort Lauderdale -- they missed their connection, and they can't figure out how to rebook a ticket on an iPhone. They don't look uplifted, or full of anticipation. They're just trying to get home. A teenager following her family with a caddy full of luggage takes in the Saarinen-designed furniture and red velvet upholstery of the Sunken Lounge. "It's so old school," she says, with real awe. Although the website said the Sunken Lounge was completely booked, I was ushered as a walk-in right to a "Reserved" table. I ordered a $20 vodka Sunken Lounge Martini, which came with a wing pin that declared me a TWA Junior Pilot (I believe the title is merely honorific). The martini was airport quality: Weak, without the eye-watering zing of a good one, although it did come with three olives. Lord knows you can't turn your nose up at free food at the airport. The Flight Center's architecture is breathtaking, but you just can't shake the knowledge that you are, in fact, at JFK. Airports are in-between places, where the dollar is weakened by unseen forces and time changes shape. The TWA Hotel is simply a beautiful place to wait; it's not a destination unto itself. "Do I think you're going to spend your Friday night going out to TWA?" says Scott Gerber, Principal and CEO of the Gerber Group, which operates the three on-site bars. "I don't think so. It's a bit of a stretch to spend an hour to get out there to have drinks or dinner." Some New Yorkers have made the trip, though. In the gift shop, three young women in vintage clothes browse the red-and-white TWA merch. "We're LARPing," one of them jokes. They've taken the AirTrain to spend the weekend in the hotel -- split between the three of them, they say, the $249 a night price tag isn't so bad. Upstairs, a family from Queens is admiring the display of TWA flight attendant uniforms through the ages. Their youngest son has been anticipating the opening for months; when he grows up, he wants to be a pilot. On the first floor, a white-haired couple from Long Island have stationed themselves at the Sunken Lounge window to take photos of the decommissioned plane. "He's a retired airline pilot," the wife whispers to me. "This means a lot to him." The plane they're looking at -- a Connie L-1649A, which first flew in 1958 -- has been painstakingly restored by MCR/Morse Development, the developers who took on the TWA Hotel project. Connie is now a time capsule-cum-cocktail lounge, with a selfie-ready cockpit at the nose and a T-shirted bartender near the tail. Just like the Sunken Lounge, few of Connie's visitors are drinking. They treat the restored plane like an alternative airport lounge, swiping absentmindedly through their phones. The waitress offers menus but is politely rebuffed. A little girl drinks a bottle while her parents unpack and pack their bags. Two JetBlue pilots walk up the stairs to peek inside the cockpit, which is packed with buttons and wires   things are very different now, they reassure me. When I take one of the empty airline seats, I notice that the Connie is…swaying. The effect is like a docked boat, shivering with potential. I begin to feel a little green. "It's really shaking," a woman murmurs to her boyfriend. "There are no wheels at the back of a plane," one of the pilots says, explaining the phenomenon. "When you put too much weight in the back"   where the bar is   "you're going to get a lot of movement with the wind." I deplane Connie, happy to be back on the ground, and search for more New Yorkers who've made the trip out to Jamaica. Instead, I find a Slovakian YouTuber who's made the fourteen-hour trip for some fresh content. His stay at the hotel, he says, "was a bit of a fiasco." He'd booked a Runway room, which let guests watch planes take off through soundproof panes of glass, but at check-in, the staff asked him to wait. After three and a half hours, they finally informed him that the Runway rooms wouldn't be ready, after all -- they offered him a room without a view, instead. But would he come back again? "Oh yes," he says. "For architecture and aviation, it is a five out of five." Three women from New Mexico have stayed the weekend, too, using the TWA Hotel as a home base for trips into the city. Every morning, they took the AirTrain to the LIRR -- but it takes less than an hour to get into the city from here, they assure me. Finally, I find a woman from Bay Ridge. She's picking up her son-in-law from the airport, so she decided to stop by the Flight Center. "I saw it on the news," she says, "and my husband said, 'Let's go stay there for a night!' I said, 'What, for $300? I don't think so.'" Saarinen's flight center was designated a New York City Landmark in 1994, although it fell into a state of total disrepair after 2001, when it was closed to passengers. The renovation, which cost MCR/Morse Development over $265 million, received $41 million dollars in tax credits -- that's equal to about 5% of the MTA's $800 million "rescue plan" for the entire subway system. Governor Cuomo presided proudly over the ribbon-cutting. "You are on the cusp of an entire JFK renovation," he told the crowd. "It is going to be a different airport…It is going to be what New York deserves." Tyler Morse, the CEO of MCR/Morse Development, has bragged that the hotel will maintain a 200% occupancy rate, owing in part to its short-term stay options (rooms are available to rent for as little as four hours, starting at $139). I'd be surprised, though, if the TWA Hotel becomes a hot spot for sex workers or secret affairs: What self-respecting New Yorker would go all the way to JFK to get laid? No airport hotel -- no matter how stunning -- can shake its status as an in-between place. Modern air travel has made even the best airports purgatorial. And JFK is not the best airport. In fact, it was recently ranked 86th in the world by AirHelp, an air passenger rights startup. (At least we beat Newark, which came in 116th out of 132). If you're waiting for a flight, though, and have the time to get out and back in through security, the TWA Hotel is a beautiful place to spend purgatory. "If you're in the unfortunate situation when your flight is delayed or cancelled," Gerber says, "and you're stuck in JFK, and you don't want to spend the time going home and then back to the airport, you might say, 'We had a miserable day already. Might as well get a couple of drinks.'" As for that long-gone, uplifting Golden Age of travel? "Hopefully we can de-stress you for a few hours," he says, "but at the end of the day, you're going to have to get back on the plane." Sign up here for our daily NYC email and be the first to get all the food/drink/fun New York has to offer.


Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodri has spoken for the first time about his future, as rumours continue to swirl over a potential switch to either Manchester City or Bayern Munich. After moving to the Wanda Metropolitano last summer for €25m, the young Spaniard has impressed in the heart of Atletico's midfield - registering 41 appearances in the holding midfield role, scoring three goals. His form has led to speculation that some of Europe's biggest clubs may look to activate the release clause in his contract, which stands at a modest €70m. Manchester City have been heavily linked with a move as they search for a long-term successor to Fernandinho, while Bayern Munich are another club thought to be keen on his securing services. Now, after recently announcing that he needs some   'space' to think about his next step, it seems that he is willing to commit his immediate future to Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid. The 22-year-old told Marca : "I need to feel confident and feel loved at my club, and the economic aspect isn't the most important thing. "[Simeone] told me to stay and I'm happy to do it". Rodri's admittance that he is happy to stay in the Spanish capital is sure to be interpreted as a blow to Pep Guardiola's transfer plans, but this wouldn't be the first time that we have heard a player commit his future to a club - only to then move on once talks begin. Indeed, there is very little Atletico can do if a bid matching his release clause comes in; with City likely to be confident in securing their man as they look to defend back-to-back Premier League crowns next season against an all-conquering Liverpool side - who won their sixth Champions League crown at the weekend.


A Cypress couple who are both disabled veterans were shocked when someone put a racist note on their car while they shopped at an HEB. Marqueena and Kenneth Moore are dedicated to each other and to country. They met while they were stationed with the U.S. Navy in Japan and have been married for 15 years. Kenneth served for 12 years and Marqueena served for 8. During that time, they deployed several times and were also injured. "It has been amazing," Kenneth Moore said about his time in the military, "but it does take a toll on your body mentally and physically." Both say they have physical injuries, including a traumatic brain injury for Kenneth which has led to a stutter. The Moores also struggle with PTSD. "Going to a store can be terrifying," Kenneth said. Tuesday's trip to a Cypress HEB didn't help. They parked in a disabled spot, went shopping then came out to find a note that read, "just because you are black and have a nice car does not make you handicapped ;)." "(I was) Shocked," Marquenna Moore said. "Then actually angry, because I'm like, the plates are right there! How do you not see?" The Moores have a plate that identifies them as disabled veterans. They don't have a handicapped placard that hangs from their mirror. These license plates can be easily identified because they contain the letters DV and say "Disabled Veteran U.S. Armed Forces" along the bottom. According to the Texas DMV, in order to qualify for the plates, a person must be "Certified by the Veterans Administration to have a 50 percent service-related disability, or 40 percent due to amputation of a lower extremity." After the Moores found the note, they returned to HEB and said the store helped them figure out who left the note. They then called the Harris County Pct. 4 Constable's Office who is now investigating. The Moores also posted about what happened online, hoping to educate others about disabled veterans and the plates. The post generated hundreds of kind comments. "I was greatly touched by the responses," Kenneth Moore said. "I almost teared up a few times. It really touched me that deep." The Moores also hope to remind people that a disability is not always visible from the outside. "You may not physically see their disability," Marqueena Moore said. "But everyone wears their scars differently. You just have to simply go back to the Golden Rule: treating people how you want to be treated." ALSO POPULAR ON KHOU.COM Potential tropical cyclone in the Gulf: Forecast track and spaghetti models Gov. Abbott warns Texans to be prepared ahead of tropical depression Hurricane Katrina survivors in Houston offer shelter to New Orleans residents


Looking to get in touch with feelings? Check out this week's lineup of dramas showing on the big screen in and around Irvine. Here are the highest-rated drama films to catch in theaters, based on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes ' Tomatometer Score, which reflects the opinions of hundreds of film and television critics. (Movie descriptions courtesy The Movie Database ; showtimes via Fandango . Movie ratings and showtimes are subject to change.) The Last Black Man in San Francisco Jimmie Fails dreams of reclaiming the Victorian home his grandfather built in the heart of San Francisco. Joined on his quest by his best friend Mont, Jimmie searches for belonging in a rapidly changing city that seems to have left them behind. With a Tomatometer Score of 93% and an Audience Score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes , "The Last Black Man in San Francisco" has garnered plenty of praise since its release on June 7. The Detroit News' Adam Graham said , "'The Last Black Man in San Francisco' is poignant filmmaking with an invigorating spirit," while Soren Andersen of the Seattle Times noted , "The acting by the two principals is impeccable, their portrait of male friendship is deeply felt." Get a piece of the action at Regal Edwards University Town Center (4245 Campus Drive) through Tuesday, July 2. Click here for showtimes and tickets . The Souvenir A shy but ambitious film student falls into an intense, emotionally fraught relationship with a charismatic but untrustworthy older man. Released on May 17, "The Souvenir" has a Tomatometer Score of 90% and an Audience Score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes . "Swinton Byrne and Burke make for one of the year's most intriguing screen couples, although this is a romance based on anxiety, narcissism and opportunism rather than anything resembling genuine affection," according to Peter Howell of the Toronto Star, while the Globe and Mail's Barry Hertz said , "This is not a movie that lets life simply play out as it is or was - it is instead a collection of memories, some sharp as shards but others smoothed down." Get a piece of the action at Regal Edwards Westpark (3735 Alton Parkway) through Thursday, June 27. Click here for showtimes and tickets . Do the Right Thing On the hottest day of the year on a street in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn, everyone's hate and bigotry smolders and builds until it explodes into violence. With a Tomatometer Score of 90% and an Audience Score of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes , this 1989 release is a good bet. "In the final analysis, the best thing one can say for Lee is that he takes risks, like all true artists. For unlike most of today's filmmakers, he's not afraid to really challenge a movie audience to do some serious thinking," noted Kathleen Carroll of the New York Daily News, while the Philadelphia Inquirer's Carrie Rickey said , "['Do the Right Thing' is] an exceptional film, a movie that wisely deprives you of the cozy resolutions and epiphanies so often manufactured by Hollywood. Like the film's principals, you are left feeling that you have been torched where you live." It's screening at Regal Irvine Spectrum ScreenX, IMAX, RPX & VIP (500 Spectrum Center Drive) through Tuesday, July 2. Click here for showtimes and tickets . This story was created automatically using local movie data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Bournemouth have already begun preparations for next season after confirming the signing of Bristol City defender Lloyd Kelly. The 20-year-old has put pen to paper on a long-term deal at the Vitality Stadium after enjoying a fine season for the Robins, with him making 32 Championship appearances as they finished eighth. It's official, we've completed the signing of @lloydkelly4 from Bristol City on a long-term contract! The full story : https://t.co/lhGK1COtbY #afcb  pic.twitter.com/Wx9HeoD5Mt   AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) May 18, 2019 The England Under-21 international was the subject of plenty of interest from a host of Premier League clubs, although Bournemouth have confirmed the news via their official website , with Kelly speaking of his delight at signing for the club. He said: "It's a fantastic club. The move has come around quite quickly, but I'm happy to be here and can't wait to start playing. "Premier League football is what I've always wanted to achieve. I want to play as many games as possible and I feel like this is the right place for me to try and do that." Welcome to the club, Lloyd Kelly!  #afcb  pic.twitter.com/Q2YDzghheN   AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) May 18, 2019 Manager Eddie Howe has also spoken of his delight at signing the versatile defender, describing him as an "exciting talent". Howe added: "Lloyd is an exciting talent and a player of real potential, while at the same time already possessing good experience for someone so young. "He is athletic, versatile, physically excellent and has a very bright future ahead of him. I'm delighted that we have been able to strike so early in the summer and look forward to working with Lloyd during the coming seasons." While the club didn't disclose the fee of the deal, Sky Sports recently reported that a £13m fee was agreed between the Cherries and Bristol City ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.


U.S. stock markets were poised for a strong start on Monday amid hopes of progress on talks to avert a debt default in Greece. The European Union on Monday welcomed new proposals from Athens as a "good basis for progress" at talks later in the day where Greece and its global creditors hope to secure an eleventh-hour deal to pull the cash-strapped country back from brink of bankruptcy. Optimism about a deal on Greece set the tone for global stock markets   European shares soared in early trade, with stock markets in Germany and France more than 2 percent higher. U.S. equity futures were stronger across the board, with the Dow Jones industrial average index futures jumping more than 100 points. "Once again, all eyes will be on Greece on Monday and whether it can come to an agreement with its creditors and avoid a default and possible messy exit from the euro zone," Craig Erlam, senior market analyst at currency trading firm OANDA. "Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras put forward new proposals on Sunday which he hopes will convince the institutions to release the €7.2 billion that was agreed back in February," he said. "It's unlikely to be as simple as that, as it never is with Greece, but already the proposal has been labelled a "good basis for progress", which offers some hope." Talks on a cash-for-reforms deal have been deadlocked for months, fuelling concerns about Greece's future in the euro zone. But Greece's Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Sunday showed a new willingness to make concessions that would unlock aid needed to avoid a default. There has been intense speculation that if no deal is reached on Monday, Athens would need to impose capital controls on Tuesday to avoid a banking crisis as savers withdraw their bank deposits. U.S. existing home sales data at 10 a.m. ET could return market focus back to the economic outlook. Stocks rallied last week after a statement from the Federal Reserve was viewed as dovish, but suggested there could be one or more rate hikes this year as the economy improves. Companies reporting earnings this session include Banco De Credito E Inversiones (BCIX-CL) , Ennis Inc (EBF) , Sonic Corp (SONC) and Walter Energy (WLT) . Energy Transfer Equity LP (ETE) meanwhile could fall under the spotlight after the energy assets portfolio firm confirmed an unsolicited $48 billion big for natural gas firm Williams Companies, according to Reuters.


Lovingly known as the Duck, these amphibious craft were crucial during the D-Day landings during WWII. Flick through the pages of history and you'll see that our troops rely on being mobile. Once upon a time it was all about cavalry, but the combustion engine changed the theatre of warfare forever. No longer did two opposing forces charge at one another, instead strategy and how troops were delayed became all important as the pace of war quickened. The DUKW was an incredibly versatile machine that proved to be a true asset in World War II, and now you can own one! The Orlando Auto Museum has a great US Army specification DUKW available to buy, making it a rare opportunity to acquire this famed military vehicle. You might see converted DUKWs being used as tourist attractions, but this green machine is a real piece of history. More off-road vehicles - Show Your Patriotism With A 1966 Jeep M151 MUTT - The Perfect Land Rover Discovery Is For Sale With Morris Leslie Designed and built by Sparkman & Stephens and General Motors, this amphibious craft enabled cargo and troop transportation in any environment. Its hardy build, six-wheel drive and good ground clearance made it capable on land, while its hull and ability to float allowed for a seamless transition into water. Its name comes from the GM model code it was given. D = designed in 1942, U = utility, K = all-wheel drive, W = dual rear axles. This nomenclature is what lead the DUKW to be colloquially known as the duck. DUKWs served in the American, British, Australian, and Soviet armed forces. These talented vehicles were essential during the D-Day landings in Normandy and well as other European amphibious assaults of WWII. American forces also made good use of them in the Pacific theatre and again later at the outbreak of the Korean war. These vehicles served their commanders well, and deserve a happy retirement. As far as collector vehicles go, the DUKW is pretty unique. We'd like to see a Ferrari 288 GTO mount an amphibious assault. Those interested are encouraged to contact the Orlando Auto Museum with pricing upon appointment. Source: Orlando Auto Museum


Modern-day Aston Martin drop tops too common for you? Check out this incredibly rare 1990 V8 Zagato Vantage Volante Of all the models to leave the Aston Martin stable, the controversial V8 Zagato has the capacity to divide enthusiasts of the beloved British marque like no other. Launched in the mid-1980s with an incredible niche look, the grand tourer was based on the mechanics of the already successful Aston V8, with more than just a smattering of added crazy courtesy of Italian coachbuilder Zagato . More Aston Martins! One-off Aston Martin V8 Shooting Brake Took 8000 Hours To Build Is This The Greatest 1986 Aston Martin V8 Zagato Ever? Unlike the majority of Aston Martin models, the hand-formed bodywork was not graciously curved; instead, it was bold and angular with a squared-off grille and raised bonnet power bulge. Zagato had opted to construct the bodywork from aluminium to keep the weight down, but this is probably where most of common sense ended. The restyling of the V8 served to bring together Aston Martin and Zagato for the first time in 25 years, and there were some similarities between the current effort and the DB4 GT that Zagato had re-worked the previous time around. Just as with the DB4 GT, the V8 model's dimensions were reduced by shortening the chassis, and the rear seats were removed. This gave both models more of an edge when it came to overall handling and agility. When revised, the DB4 GT Zagato had also been blessed with aluminium bodywork. However, few other comparisons can be drawn between the two, as the radical styling cues of the V8 Zagato make it stand out from all Astons preceding it. One aspect all V8 Zagatos share with the rest of the Aston family is generous performance and a simply intoxicating soundtrack. This could not be truer for this particular 1990 Zagato Volante convertible example. A total of just 37 were produced and only 6 in Vantage Zagato Volante specification. A standard V8 Zagato delivers a generous 430bhp and a 0-60mph time of 4.8 seconds. Twin-choke 50mm Weber carburettors aid performance; they account for that much-debated bonnet bulge. With such performance, a standard V8 Zagato is clearly far more capable than a mere 'looker'. G909 CPL was first registered in 1990 and was part of the famous Hunter Green collection; a collection of nine V8 cars all built to the same specification Hunter Green with tan hide. Quite frankly, this was the coolest one-marque garage collection of them all. The assortment comprised of a V8 saloon, V8 Vantage, V8 Volante, V8 Vantage Volante, V8 Vantage Volante PoW, V8 Vantage Zagato, V8 Zagato Volante, Lagonda and Virage. This unique collection was eventually sold at the 2005 Bonhams Aston Martin auction held at Newport Pagnell. Displaying only 12,598 miles from new, this is a fantastic opportunity to purchase one of the rarest Aston Martins ever produced. Naturally, price is on application only. Get a closer look at the rare 1990 Aston Martin here .


Veteran wide receiver Rishard Matthews tried out for the Saints during this week's minicamp and he's set to be with the team at training camp as well. The NFL's daily transaction report brought word of Matthews's signing on Thursday afternoon. The team waived wide receiver Travin Dural to make room for Matthews on the roster. Matthews opened last season with the Titans, but asked for and was granted his release in late September. He signed with the Jets in October and had two catches for 13 yards before landing on injured reserve. He had 228 catches for 3,147 yards and 21 touchdowns for the Titans and Dolphins before landing with the Jets. The Saints also added Chad Hansen to their receiving group this week and have 13 wideouts on the roster overall.


In this throwback video, MotorWeek reviews a nimble and bare-bones Porsche. When I reminisce on the events that led to my interest in automobiles, I distinctly remember the hours I'd spend watching MotorWeek with my father. As a young child, we would regularly sit down to enjoy the entertaining reviews that John H. Davis and crew produced. Of course, when I came across this MotorWeek Retro Review for the 1993 Porsche 911 RS America, I couldn't help but tune in once again. Prior to the 911 RS America's release, Porsche planned to bring over a handful of uniquely prepared models for a Carrera Cup race series, but a struggling economy led to the cancellation of the series. That's where the RS America comes into the picture. Davis describes the 911 RS America as the "ultra SlimFast of Porsches," and that's a fair assessment. The Porsche 911 RS America featured less sound deadening than regular 911 models, and also did not include a rear seat, door pockets, or power steering. A fixed, lightweight rear spoiler replaced the motorized unit on most 911's from the era, and the improvements continued with the addition of a sports suspension, plus larger wheels and tires. As a result of Porsche's efforts, the 911 RS America weighed about 80 pounds less than the 911 Carrera 2. MotorWeek took this Porsche to Roebling Road Raceway in Bloomingdale, Georgia to test out its capabilities, and they seemed to notice the difference between the two Porsches. "Compared to the Carrera 2, the RS is noisier and takes more muscle to maneuver," stated Davis. "But in the end, it's more rewarding to know." In their testing, MotorWeek achieved a 0-60mph time of 5.4 seconds, while they ran the quarter mile in 13.9 seconds at 109mph. On the opposite front, the 911 RS America made a full stop from 60mph in just 108 feet with no brake fade. MotorWeek thought highly of the 911 RS America, which at the time, was the cheapest 911 in the Porsche lineup with a base price of $54,800. Personally, I also love the idea of a bare bones, lightweight Porsche with pull-strap door handles and cloth-upholstered Recaro sport seats, especially if it knocks a few bucks off the price tag. What do you think of this nimble 911? Source: MotorWeek


Amid Tuesday's circus show in Congress, it was almost hard to notice that someone did the damn thing and filed articles of impeachment against the president. That person was Rep. Al Green, who acted despite the lack of support from Democratic leaders, according to the Washington Post . Green has tried twice before to formally impeach Trump, but more of his colleagues agree with his view than ever . He said in Congress that the racist remarks by the president this week telling four congresswoman of color to "go back" to where they came from constitutes an impeachable offense. "Donald John Trump, president of the United States, is unfit to be president." - Rep. Al Green (D-TX) filing articles of impeachment against President Trump for the third time. 🎥 https://t.co/a7MZYnkopF pic.twitter.com/aRd5osLLx4   CSPAN (@cspan) July 16, 2019 Green's resolution doesn't mean the House will certainly vote on impeachment, but it will force House leaders to take a more decisive role on the issue. Leadership could table the articles and risk further backlash from progressives, or they could refer them to the House Judiciary Committee for consideration. They could also simply allow a vote to go forward. If leadership does nothing, Green could force a vote in two legislative days. I will again, this month, bring impeachment to a vote on the Floor of the U.S. House of Representatives for bigotry in policy, harmful to our society. #RacistPresident #ImpeachNow https://t.co/NvDPm23kt9   Congressman Al Green (@RepAlGreen) July 15, 2019 . @realDonaldTrump 's racism, anti-Semitism, homophobia, transphobia, xenophobia, and Islamophobia can no longer be tolerated or ignored. We must impeach. #RacistPresident #ImpeachNow   Congressman Al Green (@RepAlGreen) July 15, 2019 At least 80 members of Congress have already called for launching an impeachment inquiry against the president. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi the person who launched the current shitstorm with her criticisms of "the Squad"  has repeatedly said impeachment isn't a possibility at the moment. But some Democrats are apparently so pro-impeachment they'd be willing to vote against any other option. "In all probability, I'd vote against [leadership tabling or referring the articles], because I'm prepared to vote," Rep. Bennie Thompson told the Post . "My district wants me to vote for the immediate impeachment of Donald Trump." Moderates and right-wing Democrats, unsurprisingly, are still solidly against impeachment. "I don't think that we have completed the process or the investigations that we need to, to take that step at this time," Rep. Stephanie Murphy, a conservative Democrat, told the Post . Officials told the Post that it's likely Pelosi will either table the articles or send them to the Judiciary Committee for consideration, but not allow for a vote. But she may have difficulty getting the votes she needs from her colleagues to avoid a vote, which could make things very complicated. Some members of Congress worried that it wasn't strategic to file impeachment articles before special counsel Robert Mueller is scheduled to testify to Congress . "I think the timing's awkward with Mueller coming next week and we have a recess coming. That's probably not the best time to do it," Rep. John Yarmuth told The Hill .


Despite having limited salary-cap space, the Houston Rockets are expected to "be aggressive in their pursuit" of Jimmy Butler, according to the Houston Chronicle's Brian T. Smith. According to many reports, the elite two-way wing is expected to opt out of his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers and become an unrestricted free agent. The issue is how the Rockets - who are already heading into the offseason $16.2 million over the salary cap - will afford Butler. The 29-year-old forward is expected to demand a max contract wherever he signs. In order to sign Butler and keep James Harden, there would have to be some sort of trade combination of Chris Paul, Clint Capela and Eric Gordon, or possibly P.J. Tucker. Rockets are expected to pursue Butler and be aggressive in their pursuit. Seen as an ideal fit on both ends of court, and in helping push Rockets to the top of the wide-open West. - Brian T. Smith (@ChronBrianSmith) June 19, 2019 ESPN's Stephen A. Smith said this week that Harden and Butler - who grew up in the Houston-area - have been "talking" quite a bit this offseason. Rockets general manager Daryl Morey has made it clear though that Paul, as well as Harden, are not going anywhere. The rest of the roster is up for grabs though, and adding a third star to compliment the already strong backcourt is a priority for Morey. Do you think the Rockets should risk it all for Butler? How would Butler fit in with Houston? MORE: Four potential Kawhi Leonard landing spots in free agency Suspended NASCAR driver still found a way to race this weekend Rob Pelinka May Not Have Known the Cap Rules for Anthony Davis Trade Raiders DE Clelin Ferrell signs contract, offers message to fans Position flexibility giving Packers DB Natrell Jamerson a chance to stick


Check out the Falcons' rookie ratings! As the 2019 NFL season approaches, so does the annual release of EA Sports' Madden video game. On Monday, EA revealed the ratings for each team's rookie draft class in Madden 20, and as someone who has played every version since Madden NFL 98, I found the ratings surprising. It seems like they've toned down the early high ratings for rookies, as the highest-rated in the league is New York Jets ' DT Quinnen Williams (80 overall). In Madden 19, more than five rookies started the season with a rating 80 overall or better, so expect a more realistic feel in this year's version. Without further ado, the Atlanta Falcons 2019 rookie draft class ratings: I think the biggest takeaway from the ratings is the speed. In terms of speed, Falcons rookies rank high in their respective position categories, with Chris Lindstrom being the fastest rookie offensive guard, and Kendall Sheffield and Kaleb McGary tied for second at their respective positions. As veteran Madden players know, these ratings are subject to change as the season begins and rookies make an impact or struggle. The Madden 20 release date is on Aug. 2 nd for the standard edition, with the Superstar edition and the Ultimate Superstar edition releasing on July 30 th . You can view the full list of rookie ratings by clicking here . What do you think of the rookie ratings? Tell me in the comments below.


San Jose Earthquakes striker Chris Wondolowski broke Landon Donovan's MLS regular season goalscoring record on Saturday evening, bagging four goals against the Chicago Fire to take his career tally to 148. Wondolowski was drafted by the Earthquakes in the 2005 SuperDraft after a successful college career at Chico State University and went on to lead the league in scoring in 2010 and 2012. The 36-year-old striker has also won two MLS Cups with the Houston Dynamo as well as representing his country at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. THE ALL-TIME SCORING RECORD BELONGS TO @CHRISWONDO ! #Quakes74 https://t.co/MXZoyTUMA0   Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 18, 2019 Saturday's match against the Fire was the first four-goal haul of Wondolowski's historic 16-year career, an emphatic way to etch his name into the books forever. The record-breaking goal came when goalkeeper David Ousted spilt a routine cross into the box and the 36-year-old was there to tap in from two metres out. Speaking after the match (via the MLS official site ), Wondolowski reflected on the achievement, saying: "It's so surreal that I get a message from Landon Donovan, that he even knows my name. It's still crazy and boggles my mind that that's the level. "I got messages after the game on the video board," he added. "Those guys, you know, that they even know my name, talking to me, congratulating me. It's amazing. It's still surreal. It still hasn't sunken in. I'm not sure when it will or if it will   until I'm even more grey and a lot older. It's special." Wondolowski previously held the MLS record for goals scored in a single season, 27, for six seasons before Josef Martinez bagged 31 for Atlanta in 2018. If the 36-year-old can continue his good form following this match and finish the season with double-digit goals   four in one game tends to help that endeavour   he'll hit the mark for the tenth straight season. The Earthquakes will continue to push for a spot in the playoffs when they travel north of the border to take on Toronto FC at BMO Field on Sunday.


There's debate over whether Russia has troops in Ukraine. But there's no debate over whether Russia has military equipment there. In fact, some of Russia's newest warfare systems are there. "All of the equipment we are seeing coming out of the pictures from eastern Ukraine is not necessarily brand-new, up-to-date and a match for their Western equivalents," says Keir Giles, a director of the Conflict Studies Research Center in Oxford, England. "But certainly what's going on behind the scenes is very new." Giles says it is things like the command and control, the intelligence support and the electronic warfare support that Russia is testing   after developing those capabilities over the last seven years since the Georgian war. Russia, it seems, is using Ukraine as a test-lab for its military. And that leads many to wonder if the Ukranian military can defend itself against Russian weaponry. Giles believes Ukraine is at a strong disadvantage. "That's the reason why Ukraine is asking for support, not just in the form of weaponry, but also non-lethal systems that will actually just enhance their survivability in the face of these Russian attacks," he argues. According to Giles, the Russians discovered when they went to war with Georgia in 2008 that they simply were not capable of waging modern warfare in the way they wanted to. "They realized that they were serious deficiencies in their armed forces in some of these modern techniques," he says. The use of drones for intelligence and surveillance is an example he cites. And from the look of things, it appears Russia is in the middle of a transformation process. "This is not the end result of what they are trying to achieve," Giles says. "They are at the mid-point of a very long-term program of bringing their forces up to capability, where they can achieve their ambition of over-matching western forces once again."


Gov. Larry Hogan signed a measure Monday to raise the age for buying tobacco and nicotine products from 18 to 21   after Maryland's legislature carved out an exemption for members of the military. In signing the bill, the Republican governor broke with some members of his party, who had decried the measure as "nanny state" legislation. Democrats argued the bill is aimed at protecting teens from the harmful health effects of smoking. "There is no more important job than protecting the health and safety of Marylanders," Hogan said of signing the legislation, along with several other health-related bills. The legislation takes effect in October. Maryland will become the ninth state to raise the age for buying cigarettes and other tobacco products. The bill was sponsored by Del. Dereck Davis, a Prince George's County Democrat. It passed the House of Delegates with a 101-35 vote and the Senate with a vote of 32-13. The law will apply to all types of tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes and vaping devices. Retailers will have to post signs warning that the products can be sold only to those age 21 or older. The law won't change the penalty for selling tobacco to those under age; fines that begin at $300 for a first offense. "It's a great piece of legislation," Davis said. "With vaping becoming the rage among young people, a lot of the gains we were making reducing smoking were being wiped out. We know most smokers who are addicted start before the age of 21. The more we can do to prevent our young people from starting at a young age, that's a good thing." There's a trend toward raising the age to purchase tobacco products to 21, putting it in line with buying alcohol and gambling. Six states already have raised the tobacco purchase age to 21. Arkansas, Utah and Maryland's neighbor, Virginia, have approved legislation to raise the age limit on future dates, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. A recent poll of more than 800 Maryland residents by Goucher College found 66% supported raising the age limit to 21, while 31% opposed the change. To help the bill pass , the General Assembly accepted an amendment from Sen. Michael Hough, a Frederick County Republican, to include the exception that allows people who are 18 or older to buy tobacco products if they show a military identification. Davis said he wasn't a fan of the amendment, but realized the bill needed it to pass. "That's the legislative process," he said. "We did what we had to do to get the bill passed. For now, I'm ecstatic it's on the books. I'm hopeful we can save many lives because of this bill." The bill was supported by the American Cancer Society and by e-cigarette company JUUL Labs. The company's devices are popular with teens, but JUUL has worked to promote its product as one designed for adults who already smoke and want a different option. Davis said he was pleasantly surprised by JUUL's support. He said he was hopeful other states would pass similar restrictions, so Maryland teens wouldn't cross state lines to buy tobacco. "It's not hard to fathom that some people will do that. All we can do is what we can do here in Maryland," Davis said. "My hope is that everyone will adopt this particular law." luke.broadwater@baltsun.com twitter.com/lukebroadwater


DETROIT   Investigators believe a "serial murderer and rapist" targeting prostitutes is at large in Detroit after the decomposed body of a third woman was found Wednesday in a vacant house, the police chief said. Chief James Craig said the homicides, which began in March, appear to be related to the sex trade. He declined to "go into a lot of detail." Two of the three women were in their early 50s. One died of blunt force trauma, while the cause of the other deaths remains under investigation, Craig told reporters. "We believe this is a serial murderer and rapist, and we want to alert all sex workers, particularly those who work inside vacant houses, to beware," Craig said. He made a public appeal for more information, especially from people who accept money for sex, although he also cautioned that "we're not trying to create an alarm across the city." The first victim, Nancy Harrison, 52, was found March 19. Craig said the death appeared to be a drug overdose, but the cause was changed after additional work by the medical examiner. The second victim, Trevesene Ellis, 53, was discovered on May 24. The bodies   one white, one black   were in vacant houses on Detroit's east side. Detroit has demolished about 18,000 properties since 2014 and has another 18,000 houses to go, Mayor Mike Duggan said last week. Investigators were unable to determine the identity and race of the third victim discovered Wednesday because her body was badly decomposed. "We believe all three are connected. ... We have no suspect description at this time," the chief said.


The New Balance National Track & Field Championships are being held June 13-16 at North Carolina A & T in Greensboro, N.C. Below are the high school athletes from North Jersey who are entered to compete, with the scheduled days and times of the their events. CHECK BACK AS RESULTS WILL BE UPDATED THROUGHOUT THE WEEKEND. CH: Championship Division; EE: Emerging Elite; FR: Freshman; SP: shot put; D: discus; J: javelin; HJ: high jump; LJ: long jump; TJ: triple jump; PV: pole vault. Thursday 9:00 a.m.: Katie Kakascik, Clifton, FR LJ (15-2, 35th place). 9:00 a.m.:Benjamin Shue, Englewood Cliffs, JHS SP (47-9 3/4 (8.8 lb. shot), CHAMPION). 11:00 a.m.: Fiona Carter, Paramus Catholic, FR 100 hurdles (15.93, 22nd place) 11:45 a.m.: Kayce Darby, Teaneck, FR 100 (12.12, 5th in trials, QUALIFIES FOR FINAL) 3:00 p.m.: Kiley Mironenko, Waldwick, FR TJ 3:15 p.m.: Darby, FR 200 6:00 p.m.: Selah Dungey, Newark Academy (Hackensack), FR HJ Friday 10:10 a.m.: Clifton girls, EE 4-x-800 relay 11:00 a.m.: Bergen Catholic boys, EE 4-x-800 relay 11:00 a.m.: Michael McGeehan, Paramus Catholic, Dean Williamson, Bergen Catholic, Thomas Donovan, Ramsey, EE JT 1:10 p.m.: Paramus Catholic girls, CH Swedish relay (100-200-300-400) 1:20 p.m.: Paramus Catholic boys, CH Swedish relay 2:10 p.m.: Clifton and Teaneck girls, EE sprint medley relay 2:50 p.m.: Bergen Tech and Glen Rock boys, EE sprint medley 4:00 p.m.: Kievon Banks, Bergen Tech, EE TJ 5:00 p.m.: John Griffith, Northern Highlands and Connor Mathis, Don Bosco, EE DT 6:00 p.m.: Alianna Eucker, Bergen Tech, Hailey Romero, Fair Lawn and Niki Woods, NV/Demarest, CH javelin 6:05 p.m.: Daisy Liljegren, Northern Highlands, CH 5,000 Saturday 9:15 a.m.: Paramus Catholic girls, EE 4-x-100 relay 9:30 a.m.: Paramus Catholic boys, EE 4-x-100 relay 9:45 a.m.: Ramapo girls, CH 4-x-200 relay 11:15 a.m.: Isabelle Dely, Paramus Catholic and Grace O'Shea, Ramapo, CH 100 hurdles 11:35 a.m.: Jordany Dely, Paramus Catholic, EE 110 hurdles 11:50 a.m.: Sarah Hutchins, Glen Rock, EE 100 hurdles 11:55 a.m.: Mariah Fede, Paramus Catholic, EE 200 1:00 p.m.: Alejandra Bartutis, North Bergen, EE HJ 1:45 p.m.: Ridgewood boys, CH sprint medley relay 2:30 p.m.: Tiffany Bautista, Paramus Catholic and Kathryn Brown, Kinnelon. CH TJ 2:55 p.m.: Glen Rock, Paramus Catholic and Ridgewood girls, CH shuttle hurdles relay 3:20 p.m.: Paramus Catholic and Ridgewood boys, CH shuttle hurdles relay 3:45 p.m.: Connor Mathis, Don Bosco, CH SP 6:00 p.m.: John Lee, NV/Demarest and Jason Santa Cruz, NV/Old Tappan, CH JT Sunday 8:10 a.m.: Ridgewood girls, CH 4 mile relay. 9:00 a.m.: Bautista, Brown, Kennedee Cox, Paramus Catholic and Dely, CH LJ 9:50 a.m.: Clifton girls EE distance medley relay 10:30 a.m.: Holy Angels and Teaneck girls CH super sprint medley relay (100-100-200-400) 12:10 p.m.: Alex Ruhl, Ridgewood and Ryan Verhoog, Ramapo, EE 400 hurdles 12:15 p.m.: Katherine Muccio, Ridgewood, O'Shea and Grace Smiechhowski, Northern Highlands, CH 400 hurdles 1:15 p.m.: Paramus Catholic boys EE 4-x-400 relay 2:30 p.m.: Liam Landau, Pascack Hills, CH PV 3:05 p.m.: Holy Angels and Ramapo CH 4-x-400 relay 4:25 p.m.: Luis Peralta, Passaic, CH 800 5:07 p.m.: Will Baginski, Ridgewood, CH 1 Mile Don't miss a thing Download our app and get alerts for breaking news, football scores and more. Be in the know: Sign up for the newsletter Get the app: iPhone app | Android app Find us on social media: Twitter | Facebook This article originally appeared on North Jersey Record: North Jersey at the New Balance Track Nationals