Today, 80% of U.S. workers say they would turn down a job offer that doesn't provide flexible work options. Additionally, more than a third say they would prioritize flexible work arrangements over having a more prestigious role. That's according to FlexJobs' 2019 Remote Work Statistics Report . But you don't have to trade in your substantial paycheck for greater flexibility. FlexJobs' sister site Remote.co used data from its platform to create a list of high-paying remote jobs that are available right now. Each of these jobs pay a minimum of $90,000 per year, according to the salary range listed in the job posting. They also provide employees with the flexibility to work from home if they choose. Take a look below at what high-paying jobs you should consider applying to if you want the option to work remotely: 7. Senior Sitecore Developer Description: As a senior sitecore developer, you will be responsible for collaborating with development, project leads and stakeholders to execute fast-paced projects on a tight development schedule. Salary: $95,000-$105,000 Click here to view job posting 6. Growth Product Manager Description: As a growth product manager some of the duties you will be responsible for include developing a paid acquisition strategy, launching paid marketing campaigns, and defining KPIs for a company. Salary: $95,000-$112,000 Click here to view job posting 5. Director of Development Description: As a director of development, you will be expected to oversee, coordinate, and execute a strategic development plan for a company. Salary: $100,000-$120,000 Click here to view job posting 4. Corporate Controller Description: As a corporate controller some of your duties will include leading financial reporting and accounting processes such as monthly and annual closing, revenue recognition, reporting, budgeting and tax compliance. Salary: $100,00-$150,000 Click here to view job posting 3. Senior Full Stack Developer Description: As a senior full stack developer, you should be comfortable working with product managers, designers, UX researchers, and other stakeholders. Salary: $110,000-$140,000 Click here to view job posting 2. Director of Law and Policy Description: As a director of law and policy, some of your responsibilities may include managing legislative and policy work by creating policy solutions, making recommendations on policy positions, drafting legislation, and monitoring election policy. Salary: $125,000-$150,000 Click here to view job posting 1. Senior Software Engineer Description: As a senior software engineer some of your duties may include developing new API and user interface features, as well as writing unit tests. Salary: $130,000-$160,000 Click here to view job posting Don't miss: 15 of the most common flexible side jobs and how much they pay


Google keeps a log of everywhere you go if you use Google apps and services on your phone. It has a creepy level of detail that might surprise you. Google makes it easy to find this information and limit how it can track you, though, so here's how to do that. Google knows a lot about you and, if you use Google Maps or other Google apps, it stores a copy of everywhere you go. I recently performed Google's "Privacy Checkup" to learn a bit more about what it knows about me, and was pretty surprised at the level of detail it had on my exact locations. I picked a random date: April 16, 2019. It knew everywhere I went, including that I took Route 95 to our office in northern New Jersey and that I arrived at 7:58 a.m. It knew that at 1:02 p.m. I drove to Jersey City and took a train in to Manhattan to the New York Stock Exchange before returning home at 4:38 p.m. And it has a copy of the pictures I took at each location. It's a creepy level of detail. Google says that it uses location history to "create a private map of where you go with your signed-in devices even when you aren't using a specific Google service" and that the "map is only visible to you." The data, it says, provides "improved map searches and commute routes, as well as helping you to rediscover the places you've been and the routes you've traveled." I don't really care about that information. I know the roads I drove on April 16, and I can't see any reason why Google should store it, even if it's only for my use. I never know who might be able to access that data, even if Google promises it's private. You can stop Google from storing your location history and delete what it has already stored. Here's how. How to stop Google from tracking your location history First, go to myaccount.google.com/privacycheckup . This is a good page to bookmark, since it gives you granular control over lots of privacy settings. Next, scroll down to "Location History" and choose "Manage Location History." This is where you'll see everywhere you've been. It's a freaky level of detail. Tap "Manage Location History" at the bottom of the screen again. Toggle the button to turn off Location History. To delete your history, do this: Tap the settings button on the "Location History" map. Select "Delete all location history." That's not it, though. Google will continue tracking your location unless you also turn off a separate "Web & App Activity" tracker. Google says it tracks your location from apps to provide "better recommendations, and more personalized experiences in Maps, Search, and other Google services." To turn off web and app activity, do this: Go to myaccount.google.com/activitycontrols Turn off the "Web & Activity" toggle. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube.


The 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup is upon as 24 nations descend on France this summer to compete for the ultimate prize. Here's your preview to Group A, featuring France, South Korea, Norway and Nigeria. France FIFA Ranking: 4th Best World Cup: 4th (2011) Coach: Corinne Diacre -The 44-year-old was formerly a French international herself and went to one World Cup and three European Championships as a player. She was an assistant coach with Les Bleus from 2007 until 2013, before returning to the fold to take the top job in 2017. Player to Watch: Eugenie Le Sommer - She has been there and done it all for Lyon at club level after recently winning an incredible sixth Champions League trophy. With a fine international strike rate of a goal every other game, the time to conquer the world is now. Rising Star: Delphine Cascarino, 22 - Previously won the Under-17 World Cup in 2012 and has made the transition to the senior setup after establishing herself with Lyon at club level. Expectations: With a strong domestic club scene and a talented squad on home soil, French fans will want to see their team capture a second World Cup trophy in the space of 12 months. Any Other Business? Oddly, this will only be France's fourth Women's World Cup after failing to qualify for the tournament on four previous occasions in 1991, 1995, 1999 and 2007. South Korea FIFA Ranking: 14th Best World Cup: Round of 16 (2015) Coach: Yoon Deok-yeo - Appointed in 2013 after a coaching at various men's clubs in South Korea, as well as the country's Under-17 men's national team. He was himself once an international player, representing the men's team between 1989 and 1991. Player to Watch: Ji So-yun - The Chelsea star has been plying her trade in England since moving from Japan in 2014 and has won five domestic trophies and played in two Champions League semi finals. She has been in the PFA Team of the Year four times in five years. Rising Star: Han Chae-rin - A goal against the United States on her senior debut in 2017 was a strong way for the midfielder, now 22 years of to begin her international career. Expectations: The South Koreans will be looking to at least replicate a successful 2015 tournament, during which they reached the knockout rounds of a World Cup for the first time. Any Other Business? As many as 10 of the 23 players in the squad are drawn from club side Hyundai Steel Red Angels, who have been South Korean champions six times since 2013. Norway FIFA Ranking: 12th Best World Cup: Winners (1995) Coach: Martin Sjogren - The Swede began coaching women's football in his homeland in his twenties and was appointed by top club Linkopings in 2012. He then made the step into international coaching when Norway came calling in 2016. Player to Watch: Caroline Graham Hansen - The attacking midfielder has recently signed a deal with growing European force Barcelona and will move to Spain after the World Cup after five successful years with perennial German champions Wolfsburg. Rising Star: Ingrid Syrstad Engen, 21 - Likely the player who will replace Hansen at Wolfsburg after agreeing a transfer earlier this year, but remaining at existing club LSK until the summer. Expectations: Getting out of the group will be the minimum expectation for a nation whose standing in the global game has somewhat fallen. Going beyond the quarter finals will be tough. Any Other Business? The absence of Ada Hegerberg promises to cast a huge shadow on Norway, with the increasingly high profile Ballon d'Or winner retiring from international football in 2017 over inequality and a lack of respect, and refusing to reverse her decision. Nigeria FIFA Ranking: 38th Best World Cup: Quarter Finals (1999) Coach: Thomas Dennerby - Most famous for a seven-year stint in charge of Sweden's women's national team from 2005 until 2012, during which time the country finished third at the 2011 World Cup. Took over the Nigeria job last year. Player to Watch: Asisat Oshoala - The former Liverpool and Arsenal player recently played for Barcelona in the Champions League final after returning to Europe from China earlier this year. She was previously BBC Women's Footballer of the Year in 2015 and is still only 24. Rising Star: Anam Imo, 18 - Contracted to the esteemed Rosengard club in Sweden and won't even celebrate her 19th birthday until November. Expectations: It has been 20 years since Nigeria have been beyond the group stage, while they have won just one World Cup game since then. Getting a positive result would be a start. Any Other Business? Nigeria are one of only seven countries in Women's World Cup history to have qualified for every tournament, more than Canada, China, England and France. Group A Fixtures Date Teams Kick-Off Venue  7 June 2019 France vs South Korea 9pm Parc des Princes, Paris 8 June 2019 Norway vs Nigeria 9pm Stade Auguste-Delaune, Reims 12 June 2019 Nigeria vs South Korea 3pm Stade des Alpes, Grenoble 12 June 2019 France vs Norway 9pm Allianz Riviera, Nice 17 June 2019 Nigeria vs France 9pm Roazhon Park, Rennes 17 June 2019 South Korea vs Norway 9pm Stade Auguste-Delaune, Reims *All dates and times are local For the full squad lists for France, South Korea, Norway and Nigeria, as well as every other country competing at this summer's Women's World Cup, click here.


Manchester United may be forced to pay a higher percentage of the Harry Maguire fee up front, as reports suggest that Leicester are unconvinced the Red Devils will be able to offer the relevant add-ons for Champions League qualification. Despite wanting Maguire's future sorted as soon as possible , as Leicester are holding firm over their £80m valuation of the central defender. According to the Daily Mail , United's initial offer of £72m is set to be rejected by Leicester as the Foxes are not convinced that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side will be able to provide the various add-ons that bring the overall fee up to £80m - including finishing in the top four. From a Leicester perspective, the Foxes are remaining relaxed over Maguire's future, as Brendan Rodgers recently commented (via the Leicester Mercury ): "There's a lot of speculation around Harry but he's just got on with it. Like I've always said, we're all pretty relaxed with it. "There's no discussion. I know you guys are looking for updates but there's no change from the other night. "We have two weeks left to go in the window for all of the players. I think it's just a case of everyone staying focused." While the two clubs continue to hash things out behind the scenes, Maguire is so far keen to keep playing for Leicester during pre-season, having recently featured against Stoke City on Saturday. Harry Maguire has been in that medical room for nearly a week now. Someone better check that he's ok...   Tom McDermott (@MrTomMcDermott) July 21, 2019 The Mirror claim that Maguire is willing to play as much as possible in order to be match fit when United are finally able to agree a deal to bring him over to Old Trafford. The report also notes that Maguire is of the opinion that it would be counter-productive to sit on the sidelines in order to force through a move.


Here's everything you need to know about NXIVM and the criminal case against members of the organization. NXIVM was formed by Keith Raniere and Nancy Salzman in the 1990s and billed itself as a self-help multi-level marketing company. The company ceased operations last year after a New York Times exposé alleged that female members were used as sex slaves within the group. The exposé prompted a federal investigation, and several members, including Raniere and "Smallville" actress Allison Mack, are now facing criminal charges. In April, Seagram's liquor heiress Clare Bronfman pled guilty to two counts related to the group. When NXIVM first formed in the 1990s, it was billed as a self-help multi-level marketing company that offered professional development seminars. But over the last year and half, the organization has fallen apart after a New York Times exposé alleged that female members were branded and used as sex slaves by the group's founder, Keith Raniere. The exposé prompted a federal investigation and the arrests of several members, including Raniere and "Smallville" actress Allison Mack. In recent months four defendants have pleaded guilty and admitted to allegations made in The Times' piece, including blackmail and enslaving members. NXIVM has since shut down, and opening arguments in the trial against Raniere began Tuesday. He is pleading not guilty. Here's everything you need to know about NXIVM and the criminal case against the organization. Keith Raniere launched NXIVM as a self-help company in the 1990s. NXIVM - pronounced like "nexium" - is a self-help multi-level marketing company in Albany, New York. A self-help guru named Keith Raniere, and a former psychiatric nurse and consultant named Nancy Salzman, founded the business in 1998. Over the next twenty years, some 16,000 people enrolled in courses through NXIVM, which describes itself as "a community guided by humanitarian principles that seek to empower people and answer important questions about what it means to be human." Most people enrolled in NXIVM through its Executive Success Programs (ESP), a series of workshops designed to "actualize human potential" that cost up to $7,500 . Founder Keith Raniere was born in 1960 in Brooklyn . He graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York in 1982. The second founder, Nancy Salzman, was born in 1954 in Newark, New Jersey , and later obtained a nursing license. Raniere's website describes him as a "the conceptual founder of NXIVM" as well as a prolific inventor and writer. Salzman's website touts her "thirty years of intensive study and practice in the fields of healthcare, human potential and human empowerment" and her "incredible wealth of knowledge, wisdom and experience." Forbes named several members in a 2003 report , including businesswoman Sheila Johnson and the daughter of former Mexican President Vicente Fox. Others who reportedly attended ESP sessions include Dynasty star Linda Evans and Virgin founder Richard Branson, according to Macleans . Seagram's liquor heirs Clare and Sara Bronfman lost more than $100 million investing in the organization, according to Vanity Fair . The meaning of the company's name, which is pronounced like the heartburn medication Nexium, is unclear. Last year, a whistleblower offered the theory that it refers to nexum , a type of contract used in the Roman Republic in which a person agreed to offer their body as collateral for a loan. If they defaulted, they became a slave of the person who loaned them money. Journalists started labeling the company as a pyramid scheme in the early 2000s. Before launching NXIVM, Raniere ran an alleged pyramid scheme that brought in $33 million in a year, Forbes reported in 2003 . Raniere had signed 250,000 people up for Consumers' Buyline, another multi-level marketing company. This one claimed to obtain products and services at a significant discount. In 1993, the New York Attorney General filed a lawsuit that accused Consumers Buyline of being a pyramid scheme. Raniere never admitted wrongdoing, and instead settled for $40,000. Forbes' 2003 article, titled "Cult of Personality," investigated whether or not NXIVM also portrayed pyramid-scheme-like tendencies. Seagram's late CEO, Edgar Bronfman Sr., who had previously taken courses with NXIVM, told the magazine: "I think it's a cult." Raniere, Salzman, and Bronfman's daughter Sara were reportedly upset about his remark, according to Vanity Fair . Cult experts told local media that Raniere was probably running a cult in 2012. The Times Union , a local paper that serves the upstate New York area surrounding Albany, published an article in 2012 in which it questioned NXIVM's motives. "Some experts say Keith Raniere, the guru behind the unusual training business, is really a cult leader," the article said. The article said Raniere was called the "Vanguard" within the group, while devotees called Salzman "Prefect." The Times Union reported that within NXIVM, there was a "close knit" group of women who "tended to [Raniere], paid his bills," and "satisfied his sexual needs." Cult Tracker Rick Ross told the paper that NXIVM was "one of the most extreme groups [he had] ever dealt with in the sense of how tightly wound it is around the leader, Keith Raniere." October 17, 2017: The New York Times published an exposé about NXIVM's branding ritual and sex slave allegations. The New York Times exposé featured an interview with former NXIVM member Sarah Edmondson and her experience with the organization. Edmondson claimed that Salzman's daughter, Lauren Salzman, had recruited her into a secret organization within NXIVM in the mid-2000s. She claimed she had to turn over damaging information before joining that was held by NXIVM leaders as "collateral." Several women who were in the group told The Times that the organization inside NXIVM consisted of distinct circles, each led by a "master" who would control a number of sex slaves. The name of the organization was later revealed to be called Dominus Obsequious Sororium, which loosely translates from Latin to "lord over the obedient female companions" according to a later feature on NXIVM by The New York Times . The group was called DOS for short. Edmondson showed The Times a scar resembling Raniere's initials, and said every woman in the group had one. Dynasty actress Catherine Oxenberg also spoke to The Times, claiming her daughter had been initiated into the group. The exposé prompted an investigation by the Department of Justice. Two months after The New York Times released its report on NXIVM, the Justice Department started investigating the group . March 26, 2018: Raniere was arrested and charged with sex trafficking after fleeing to Mexico following The Times' exposé. Raniere was arrested in the resort town of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and brought to Texas on March 26, 2018, the Brooklyn US Attorney's office said at the time . He had fled to Mexico after The Times story published the previous October. "Keith Raniere displayed a disgusting abuse of power in his efforts to denigrate and manipulate women he considered his sex slaves," FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William Sweeney said in the press release announcing Raniere's arrest. He was charged with sex trafficking, sex trafficking conspiracy and forced labor conspiracy. Prosecutors alleged that Raniere "created a secret society of women whom he had sex with and branded with his initials, coercing them with the threat of releasing their highly personal information and taking their assets." According to a criminal complaint , prosecutors alleged that Raniere told followers that men need multiple sex partners while women need to be monogamous. The also claimed Raniere had "over 50 sex slaves," NBC News reported . March 30, 2018: "Smallville" actress Kristin Kreuk explains reports that she was part of NXIVM. "Smallville" actress Kristin Kreuk told Elle in March 2018 that she had taken self-help classes through NXIVM, but she was never part of the DOS inner circle. "I took an Executive Success Programs/NXIVM 'Intensive,' what I understood to be a self-help/personal growth course that helped me handle my previous shyness, which is why I continued with the program," she said in a statement last year. She said she was 23 when she took courses with NXIVM, which would have been in 2006. "The accusations that I was in the 'inner circle' or recruited women as 'sex slaves' are blatantly false," she added. April 20, 2018: "Smallville" actress Allison Mack was arrested and and charged with sex trafficking and forced labor. Mack was arrested on April 20, 2018 on charges of sex trafficking, sex trafficking conspiracy, and forced labor conspiracy. The actress was accused by two unnamed women of requiring them to engage in sexual activity with Raniere, CNN reported at the time . Prosecutors alleged that Mack received financial benefits in exchange for the women's cooperation. The women claimed they were blackmailed into performing sexual favors. INSIDER previously reported that Mack sent cryptic messages to prominent feminists on Twitter , trying to recruit women for "an organization that focuses on empowering women from the inside out." The women she reached out to include actress Emma Watson, parenting expert Stefanie Wilder-Taylor, and singer Kelly Clarkson. Mack pleaded not guilty to charges. Mack pleaded not guilty to the charges shortly after her arrest. She was released on a $5 million bond . April 21, 2018: The New York Post reported that NXIVM moved its operations to Brooklyn. NXIVM moved its operations from Albany, New York, to Brooklyn, in April 2018, the The New York Post reported . As Raniere faced criminal charges, longtime member Clare Bronfman - a multimillionaire heiress to the Seagram's liquor fortune - took control of the organization, The Post said. An insider told The Post that the organization's was in "crisis mode" as Raniere and Mack faced charges. May 4, 2018: Raniere pleaded not guilty and his attorney said "everything was consensual." Raniere pleaded not guilty all all charges on May 4, 2018. After the hearing, his lawyers told NBC News that "everything was consensual" within NXIVM. "There are well-known groups of men who brand themselves," attorney Marc Agnifilo said. "A group of women do that and suddenly they're victims." Following his not guilty plea, Raniere was held without bail. May 30, 2018: Mack told The New York Times that she instituted the branding ritual. Allison Mack told the New York Times Magazine that it was her idea to brand members of the alleged sex cult. She said tattoos weren't intense enough and wanted a stronger brand that would be more meaningful. "I was like: 'Y'all, a tattoo? People get drunk and tattooed on their ankle 'BFF,' or a tramp stamp,'" she told the Times. "I have two tattoos and they mean nothing." The Times said hundreds of NXIVM members were branded with a symbol that resembled a "K" and "R," which stands for Keith Raniere. According to The Times, Mack was once one of Raniere's sex slaves. When she acquired a slave of her own, the slave was branded with both the "KR" symbol as well as an "AM" symbol. June 12, 2018: NXIVM suspended all operations. NXIVM announced it was suspending all operations on June 12, 2018. The organization said in a statement on its website: It is with deep sadness that we inform you we are suspending all NXIVM/ESP enrollment, curriculum and events until further notice. We will be in touch with more information for anyone currently enrolled in upcoming events/programs. While we are disappointed by the interruption of our operations, we believe it is warranted by the extraordinary circumstances facing the company at this time. We continue to believe in the value and importance of our work and look forward to resuming our efforts when these allegations are resolved. July 24, 2018: Four more people, including heiress Clare Bronfman were arrested and charged with racketeering and conspiracy for their roles in NXIVM. Federal authorities arrested Clare Bronfman, Nancy Salzman, Lauren Salzman, and Kathy Russell on charges of racketeering conspiracy for their alleged involvement in NXIVM. Prosecutors alleged that all four women recruited and groomed women into being sexual partners for Raniere. The women are accused of using "harassment, coercion and abusive litigation to intimidate and attack perceived enemies and critics," according to the indictment , published by The Daily Beast . The indictment accused the women of a number of crimes, including identity theft, harboring of aliens for financial gain, extortion, forced labor, sex trafficking, money laundering, wire fraud and obstruction of justice. It described Bronfman as "a member of the Enterprise and a high-ranking member of Nxivm" who served on the organization's board from 2009 to 2018. March 13, 2019: Nancy Salzman pleaded guilty, saying in court that she tracked and monitored women as part of NXIVM. Nancy Salzman pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy in federal court on March 13. Salzman admitted to hacking emails of NXIVM critics, and said in court that she had monitored women as part of her role within the organization. She said in court that she had obtained passwords and usernames of people who were suspected of leaking NXIVM secrets. "I want you to know I am pleading guilty because I am, in fact, guilty," she told the court, according to The Post . "I accept that some of the things I did were not just wrong, but sometimes criminal." March 14, 2019: Prosecutors alleged that Raniere had sex with a 15-year-old girl and charged him with child pornography. Hours after Nancy Salzman pleaded guilty, federal prosecutors charged Raniere with child pornography. In a superseding indictment seen by Reuters , prosecutors accused Raniere of coercing a child into sexual conduct to produce visual depictions of it and of possessing child pornography between 2005 and 2018. At a Brooklyn hearing, prosecutors alleged that Raniere had sex with a 15-year-old girl who later became a "sex slave," The Cut reported at the time . March 27, 2019: Bronfman fainted in court after being asked if Michael Avenatti was her lawyer. During court hearing on March 27, Bronfman fainted in court after a discussion about whether she was being represented by lawyer Michael Avenatti. According to The New York Post , Judge Nicholas Garaufis had asked Donna Newman, one of Bronfman's lawyers: "Did she retain Mr. Avenatti to represent her in this case, yes or no?" The question came days after Avenatti was charged with trying to extort more than $20 million from Nike . Newman requested a sidebar discussion with the judge, and on Bronfman's way back to her seat after the conversation, she fell forward and fainted. Paramedics were called, but Bronfman was not taken to a hospital for treatment. April 2, 2019: Lauren Salzman pleaded guilty, admitting she enslaved a woman for just over two years. Lauren Salzman - the daughter of NXIVM co-founder Nancy Salzman - became the second defendant to plead guilty on April 2. The 42-year-old pleaded guilty to racketeering and racketeering conspiracy and admitted in court to keeping a personal slave locked in her home for two years, according to the New York Post . "I knowingly and intentionally harbored Jane Doe 4, a woman whose identity is known to me, in a room in the home in the Northern District of New York," Salzman said in court, according to The Post. She also admitted to being a member of NXIVM's inner circle, DOS. April 8, 2019: Mack reverses her not guilty plea and pleads guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy and one count of racketeering. Mack reversed her plea on April 8, nearly a year after she pleaded not guilty charges including sex trafficking, identity fraud, and money laundering for her role in NXIVM's alleged sex ring. Mack entered a plea agreement on racketeering charges, according to the Associated Press . Prosecutors alleged that Mack helped procure women for a cult-like group within NXIVM that recruited sex slaves for its leader in upstate New York. "I know I can and will be a better person," Mack said at her hearing on Monday. She is scheduled to be sentenced on September 11. April 19, 2019: Bronfman pleads guilty for conspiring to conceal and harbor an undocumented immigrant and for fraudulent use of identification. Bronfman pleaded guilty on April 19 to two criminal counts in connection with NXIVM's alleged sex ring. Bronfman admitted to harboring a woman who came to the US with a fake work visa, to use the woman's labor for herself and the organization, according to Reuters . She also helped Raniere use a dead woman's credit card. She has agreed, as part of her plea, to forfeit $6 million and not appeal any prison sentence that is 27 months or less. "I wanted to do good in the world and help people," she said in court. "However, I have made mistakes." Kathy Russell, who served as NXIVM's bookkeeper, also pleaded guilty to one charge of visa fraud, according to CNN , and faces between six and 12 months in prison. May 7, 2019: Raniere's trial, which is expected to last up to six weeks, begins in Brooklyn's Federal District Court. Raniere's high-profile trial kicked off on May 7 with opening arguments in Brooklyn's Federal District Court. He will stand trial for a slew of crimes including racketeering, extortion, sexual exploitation of a child, and possession of child pornography, according to court filings. In her opening statements, Assistant US Attorney Tanya Hajjar described Raniere as a "crime boss" and "predator who preyed on young women," relying on tactics of shame and humiliation to break down his followers, reported Robert Gavin of The Times Union. A US District Judge ruled before the trial began that prosecutors could present images of suspected child porn - two nude images of a girl who was around 15 years old at the time, and who authorities believe Raniere had sex with - that were discovered on a computer last year, according to court filings. Throughout Raniere's trial, several of his expected "slaves" are expected to testify in court, according to Reuters . He is pleading not guilty, and his lawyer has described the relationships as "consensual."


Blue Jays rookie phenom Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will participate in the Home Run Derby as part of the 2019 MLB All-Star Game weekend in July, the team announced Sunday. PLAKATA It's official: Vlad Jr. will compete in this year's @MLB Home Run Derby! pic.twitter.com/yKSOUnehTz   Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) June 30, 2019 Guerrero will have a chance to showcase the strong power he's shown throughout the season as the rookie has eight home runs in 53 games with the Blue Jays. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s first HR of the season was a MONSTER pic.twitter.com/YJqlDH87wY   SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 12, 2019 Guerrero, 20, has shown promise after facing a setback to start the season. Many hoped that the young star would be part of the Blue Jay's opening day roster, but he suffered an oblique injury during spring training camp that ruled out the possibility. Entering Sunday's game against the Royals, Guerrero has a .251 batting average with 23 RBIs and eight home runs. The Home Run Derby takes place July 8 in Cleveland at Progressive Field, while the All-Star Game is the following night. MORE : MLB All-Star Game 2019: Christian Yelich to compete in HR Derby | MLB wrap: Brendan McKay was 'fun to watch' in debut with Rays Related slideshow: 2019 MLB season (Provided by imagn)


Sebastian Vettel is aware he is not "driving at my best" at the start of the 2019 Formula 1 season because the way his Ferrari is responding on track feels "unnatural". Ferrari has struggled to translate its pre-season pace into results and in the races it has been more competitive, Bahrain and Azerbaijan, Vettel has not been as fast as new teammate Charles Leclerc. Read Also: Leclerc "having a negative effect" on Ferrari - Villeneuve Vettel has two third-place finishes in the last two grands prix and is ahead of Leclerc in the championship, but believes Ferrari must find more performance to fight Mercedes and unlock more pace in himself. "We need stronger pace, simple as that," said Vettel. "We need to be faster. It seems that for us it's more of a conscious effort to get the car in the right window, whereas maybe for them it seems to click a little bit easier. "Especially a place like [Baku], you need the confidence in the car. I'm not there yet. I can feel that I'm not driving at my best because simply the car does not answer or does not respond the way I like. And then I think it's unnatural. I think everybody's been there." Vettel's peaks are not as impressive as Leclerc's so far this season. The five-point gap in the championship is partly explained by Leclerc being restricted by team orders in Australia and China. Leclerc has also claimed Ferrari's only pole of the season, in Bahrain, where Vettel was only second and spun out in the race while Leclerc was denied a commanding win by an electronics problem. "At the moment I'm not so unhappy with the car," said Leclerc when asked by Motorsport.com if he shared his teammate's discomfort with the SF90. "We maybe need to work a little bit on our race. I think in qualifying the car felt amazing, in the race I have a little bit more balance problems. But these are small issues and I'm pretty sure if we work on it we'll get over it." Vettel argues his peak is lower because he is driving more cautiously while unhappy with the SF90's handling. "When it's not there [the performance], then your judgement is normally right, to not go there because you end up losing the car," said Vettel. "I seem to be more sensitive at the first races than at the test. The test was really good but that's a long time ago now. We need to look forward and improve the way we handle things, the way we work, to just get faster."


Editor's note: The opinions in this article are the author's, as published by our content partner, and do not necessarily represent the views of MSN or Microsoft. Some House Democrats who are calling for impeachment proceedings against President Trump on a charge of obstruction of justice claim that President Clinton was impeached in 1998 for far less serious misconduct. As a leader of the Clinton impeachment effort, I disagree. I still believe the Clinton impeachment was justified. But based on what is now in the public record, I don't believe a Trump impeachment is warranted. Clinton, of course, remained in office after the House impeached him on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice because the Senate acquitted him in a trial. Even if the Democratic-controlled House impeached President Trump, he would also likely stay in office after a Senate trial. DOUG SCHOEN: DEMOCRATS' IMPEACHMENT QUEST IS ALL WRONG   HERE ARE 3 BIG REASONS WHY Impeachment simply means the House charges the president with serious misconduct it considers to be what the Constitution calls "high crimes and misdemeanors." The phrase is not defined in the Constitution, and in a sense can mean whatever a simple majority in the House says it means. However, there are two instances in which sitting presidents have been impeached   Andrew Johnson and Clinton   and one in which President Nixon almost certainly would have been impeached had he not first resigned. Looking at these cases gives us clear guidance that there needs to be a very substantial and substantive basis set forth on the record in order for the impeachment process to have the credibility it merits. With Democrats in majority control of the House   holding 235 seats, compared to the 197 seats held by Republicans   odds are that the Democrats can impeach Trump if they want to. But an impeached president can be removed from office only if 67 members of the 100-member Senate vote to convict him of "high crimes and misdemeanors." Since Democrats (and two independents aligned with them) hold only 47 seats in the Senate, the odds of them getting support from 20 Republican senators to tell Trump "you're fired" seen insurmountable, based on what we know today. In 1998, when I served in the House as a Republican representing a district in Georgia, I was one of the leaders of the successful effort to impeach President Clinton for perjury and obstruction of justice. I'm sure many Democrats would say my motives were purely partisan in the case of Democratic President Clinton, and my views are purely partisan in saying Republican President Trump should not be impeached. But that's not the case. For one thing, during my tenure as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia from 1986 to 1990 (appointed to that post by President Reagan), I lead the prosecution of a sitting Republican congressman from Georgia for perjury. That's right, the same offense for which Democrat Bill Clinton was impeached. In the month since Attorney General William Barr (no relation to me) released his letter summarizing conclusions of the report by Special Counsel Robert Mueller on Russia's interference in our 2016 presidential election, America has become a nation overflowing with self-proclaimed "experts" on the law of obstruction. Not even during the height of the Clinton impeachment in December 1998 did the level of debate over what constitutes obstruction of justice reach the level of scrutiny and intensity currently on display across our country. One important difference between allegations of obstruction against President Clinton and those now leveled against President Trump is paramount. The case against Clinton was based on extensive and detailed evidence of explicit acts by the then-president, constituting a pattern of activity intended clearly to corruptly influence actual legal proceedings against him then underway. In stark contrast, the "case" against Trump is based on evidence of disparate actions subject to clearly differing interpretations, but all relating to an allegation   collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia to elect Trump   that Mueller determined is not fully and clearly supported by evidence. As the redacted version of the Mueller report released last week by Barr stated: "The investigation did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government on its election interference activities." And of critical importance, there were no court cases taking place for Trump to obstruct. While Mueller and federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York filed charges and obtained guilty pleas and convictions against some Trump associates, the crimes in those cases had nothing to do with election collusion with Russia   the legal focus of Mueller's investigation. A quick refresher course in the 1998 impeachment hearings before the House Judiciary Committee is in order to show the differences with the calls today for the impeachment of President Trump. The impetus of the hearings involving President Clinton was a report submitted to the House in September 1998 by the Office of Independent Counsel headed by former federal judge Ken Starr. Starr was an independent counsel, operating under a different law (since expired) that gave him more independence from the Justice Department than Mueller had as a special counsel. Independent Counsel Starr was required by law to submit his report to the House. In contrast, Special Counsel Mueller was required to submit his report to the attorney general. Both men complied with the different laws under which they were appointed. The report on Clinton set forth in detail "substantial and credible evidence"   the criteria in the independent counsel law   that the then-president had committed 11 impeachable offenses, including instances in which he perjured himself and obstructed justice. The House Judiciary Committee conducted extensive hearings on the charges against President Clinton, focusing on the federal laws of obstruction, how those laws had been interpreted over the years, and examination of numerous cases in which individuals had been convicted under circumstances similar to those involving Clinton. The Judiciary Committee then approved a resolution stating that Clinton should be impeached on four articles, including ones alleging perjury and obstruction of justice. This resolution then went to the full House. The context for the obstruction article of impeachment against President Clinton was a legal proceeding in federal court involving the sexual harassment case brought against Clinton by Paula Jones, in which former White House intern Monica Lewinsky was a witness. The predicate evidence developed in the Judiciary Committee hearings, which included the detailed material in the Starr report, established clearly that Clinton had lied under oath and had engaged in a deliberate, intentional series of acts designed for one purpose only   to cover up his sexual relationship with Lewinsky and to corruptly influence her testimony against him. As noted in the "Report of the Committee on the Judiciary" on the impeachment matter (submitted to the full House in December 1998), "although the actions of President Clinton do not have to rise to the level of violating the federal statute regarding obstruction of justice in order to justify impeachment, some if not all of his actions clearly do." These actions included, among many other detailed offenses: corruptly attempting to cause a witness against him (Lewinsky) to "execute a sworn affidavit … he knew to be perjurious, false, and misleading." The House Judiciary Committee hearings established as well, and also among other offenses, that Clinton "corruptly engaged in … a scheme to conceal evidence that had been subpoenaed in a federal civil rights action brought against him." Contrast the extensive record of specific acts by President Clinton to corruptly influence ongoing legal proceedings in federal court (the Paula Jones case and the independent counsel grand jury proceedings), with the obstruction currently alleged to have been committed by President Trump. All allegations of obstruction leveled at Trump arise from something far less legally substantive than the circumstance under which Clinton was impeached. There is no legal proceeding against Trump in which he has been alleged to have corruptly acted; there is only an investigation (of collusion with Russia) by Mueller that found nothing prosecutable against the current president. Moreover, there are no civil proceedings targeting President Trump in which he is alleged to have corruptly acted, as existed in the 1998 case against President Clinton. Clinton did far more than lash out at his tormentors, who included Starr. And Clinton's actions went far beyond indirectly urging his tormentors to stop mistreating him and those in his administration. These allegations are the essence of the obstruction charges House Democrats now seek to advance against Trump. I realize all this is complicated and may be hard to follow. But the bottom line is this President Clinton interfered in a judicial proceeding against himself, and President Trump did not. For this reason, Clinton deserved to be impeached but Trump does not. The Founding Fathers deliberately made the impeachment process very difficult. They did not want impeachment used as a tool to enable Congress to easily remove the president over policy and political disagreements. Congressional Democrats opposed to President Trump have every right to vote against his legislative proposals, to challenge his actions in office with lawsuits, and to work to defeat him in the November 2020 election. But right now they don't have grounds to impeach him.


OUAGADOUGOU, May 12 (Reuters) - Gunmen killed six people including a priest outside a Catholic church in Burkina Faso on Sunday, the government said, the second attack on Christians in two weeks in a nation increasingly overrun by jihadists. Congregants were leaving church around 9 a.m. (0900 GMT) in the town of Dablo in the Central North region when about twenty men encircled them and shot six dead, according to a government statement and local sources. The attackers then burned the church, looted a pharmacy and some others stores, and left, Dablo mayor Boucary Zongo told Reuters. The government statement only mentioned the burning of a shop and two vehicles. "These terrorist groups are now attacking religion with the macabre aim of dividing us," it said. Burkina Faso has been beset by a rise in attacks in 2019 as groups with links to Islamic State and al Qaeda based in neighboring Mali seek to fuel local tensions and extend their influence over the porous borers of the Sahel, the arid scrubland south of the Sahara. The government declared a state of emergency in several northern provinces bordering Mali in December because of deadly Islamist attacks. But violence has only worsened since. Two French soldiers were killed in an operation to rescue four people taken hostage in Burkina last week, France said. Over 100,000 people in Burkina Faso have been displaced by the unrest this year, the United Nations has said. Roughly 55% to 60% of Burkina Faso's population is Muslim, with up to a quarter Christian. The two groups generally live in peace and frequently intermarry. Then in late April unidentified gunmen killed a pastor and five congregants at a Protestant church, also in the north, suggesting the violence was taking a religious turn. (Writing by Edward McAllister; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)


From a Christian hip-hop concert to a silent disco, there's plenty to enjoy in Charlotte this week. Read on for a rundown of ideas for how to fill your calendar. 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. Christian Hip-Hop Concert From the event description: Come experience God with some of the top artists in the country. Spread the word and share with your friends. We can't wait to put on another great event for you! When: Friday, July 26, 7-9 p.m. Where: Harvest Center of Charlotte, 2225 Freedom Drive Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Silent Disco From the event description: Grab your headphones and show off your best moves just beneath the clouds at our Silent Disco. We're excited to welcome DJ Kue One and DJ Sativa. Participation is $25 and includes one disco ball cocktail and headphones, available for purchase at the door. When: Friday, July 26, 7-10 p.m. Where: Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo, 220 E. Trade St., Suite #2200 Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Pinhouse Grand Opening Party From the event description: Pinhouse will be having its Grand Opening Party and tickets are completely free! The two-story, Great Gatsby-esque taproom is complete with 72 self-serve taps, a second story patio that overlooks duckpin bowling! When: Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m.-11:59 p.m. Where: Pinhouse, 2306 Central Ave. Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets The Wave Gospel Brunch From the event description: Come catch the Wave, Charlotte's first buffet brunch and open mic experience showcasing Christian artists! When: Saturday, July 27, noon-3 p.m. Where: Negril Social Restaurant & Lounge, 3428 N. Tryon St. Admission: $15. More ticket options are available. Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Summer Bridal Experience From the event description: Meet wedding professionals, sampled culinary delights and watch a fashion show. Make sure you bring your fiance or wedding party, so they can join in the fun. When: Sunday, July 28, 1-4 p.m. Where: Crowne Plaza Executive Center, 5700 Westpark Drive Admission: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


As relayed by Stefan Stevenson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram , Mavericks' big man Kristaps Porzingis was apparently involved in some sort of physical altercation in his home country of Latvia recently, which came to light upon the release of a video showing Porzingis with blood on his face. Per Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium , the Mavericks are aware of the situation and are investigating the altercation. While details have not yet been confirmed, there are reports from TMZ Sports that Porzingis was in his hometown of Liepaja this weekend celebrating some occasion when a "handful of Russians confronted Kristaps, supposedly upset with the fact that he'd (left the Knicks for the Mavericks) and an all-out tussle broke out." This incident continues an already tumultuous offseason for the 23-year-old, who is also under investigation for an alleged sexual assault in New York against a former neighbor of his in a high rise apartment complex. When the assault allegations against Porzingis were made in late March, Mavs' owner Mark Cuban declined to comment, but did say that "some people" (presumably Porzingis) need to do their homework and use some common sense. The Mavericks have yet to comment, but it will be interesting to see what they have to say after this latest incident.


Des Moines' East Village just landed a new spot specializing in fast vegan food. Dirt Burger, located at 407 East Fifth Street, in the former space of Tacopocalypse, opened in late June. The restaurant specializes in vegan fast food revolving around its flagship product: a vegan patty made with ingredients from local and regional farms. Interested in Iowa food news? Follow @briantaylorcarlson on Facebook, @BriinDSM on Twitter and @briindsm on Instagram. Black tables and chairs   about 40 seats in all   are scattered in front of a hand-painted bright yellow wall with framed movie posters in the 1,500-square-foot space. Butcher-block-style counters made of laminate wood are located beneath three menu screens. The decor is a tribute to sunshine and the black earth from which all of the restaurant's ingredients come. And the Dirt Burger logo signifies both a shovel digging into the earth and a slotted turner. Three years in the making, Dirt Burger is a fast-casual concept serving burgers, fries and sodas with a focus on veganism, simplicity and sustainability. The restaurant is employing about 12 people to start. "The origins of our products are important, and that's why it's taken this project such a long time," said co-owner and culinary director, Chris Place, 49. The Des Moines native owns the restaurant with agricultural director Tony Pille, 46 of Jefferson, and director of operation Shawn Chapman, 44, of Des Moines. The partners were originally looking at a property on Fourth Street, but when the Tacopocalypse location came open, they jumped on it. What is a dirt burger? The Dirt Burger patty had its start when Place and Pille helped opened Proof Restaurant when it was owned by Carly Grobin and only served lunch. "We made some plant-based patties that we put in these homemade skillet pitas that we made every morning, just hundreds of them," Place said. "They were really good sellers, and we jokingly called them 'dirt burgers.'" Simply put, a dirt burger is a slang term for a veggie burger. And it's Dirt Burger's main protein. "Our version is a soy-free, gluten-free, plant-based burger patty with all soil-grown ingredients," Place said. "It's a play on words. Everything comes from the dirt." The patty recipe contains about 20 recognizable ingredients listed on the menu monitor, and all of them can grow in Iowa. There's buckwheat, black gram beans, ground vegetables, gluten-free grains, lentils and soaked chickpeas. Everything is ground together for texture. Then, spices and seasonings are stirred in, along with brewer's yeast and coconut amino acids   a soy sauce alternative. "That's about as 'science-lab-ish as it gets, really," Place said. Technically, this isn't the first time the burgers have made their debut. Dirt Burgers appeared at the Valley Junction and Ames Main Street farmer's markets and also the Jefferson RAGBRAI stop in 2018. Most menu items are based on this homemade patty that's cooked on a flat-top grill with plenty of variations. "It's designed for speed and simplicity," Place said. "Plant-based food is better when it's simple. It's about smart, simple food, fast." Here's how to get your hands dirty Burgers are $6-$7 for just the burger, or $10 in a combo with fries or tots and a drink. Original Dirt Burger   Tomato jam, house mustard seed pickles, aged vegan Wisconsin cashew cheddar, shredded butter lettuce, red onion and herb mayo on a brioche bun. The Spartan   Kalamata and cucumber relish, coconut yogurt tzatziki, arugula, grilled onions and sesame butter on grilled whole wheat pita. Torta   Poblano chili and almond rajas, avocado, red onion, charred corn pico, shredded butter lettuce and cilantro crema on a brioche bun. Bombay Burger   Mumbai curry spiced patty, cucumber and kohlrabi slaw, herb coconut yogurt, spirulina green goddess dressing and sumac potato chips on a whole grain bun. Magic Mushroom Burger   Magic mushroom gravy, shredded mozzarella, marinated tomatoes, garlic herb cashew spread and crispy onion straws on grilled sourdough. "It was important for me to have an Indian-style burger on the menu, because India is truly the birthplace of the vegan burger," Place said. "Their version is really spicy. Ours is a salute to that with spicy Indian green chilies." Vegan cheese from Wisconsin is available to add to burgers. Rotella in Omaha makes Dirt Burger's vegan brioche-style buns. Other hand-selected ingredients not grown locally come from farms growing and transporting their produce as responsibly as possible. Dirt balls and dirty desserts Fries are made from chemical-free Idaho potatoes, hand-cut and cooked in organic safflower and coconut oil ($3). A side dish made with regular or sweet potatoes called "Dirt Balls" contains quinoa and carrot and are rolled into balls and fried ($3.50-$4). "It's in between a tater tot and a croquette," Place said. Dipping sauces include Nam Chim sweet and sour sesame sauce, spirulina green goddess dressing, homemade ketchup, vegan mayo and vegan ranch dressing. A constant rotation of soups and salads will round out the menu ($4-$7). Of course, a dirt burger patty can be the protein in a salad. Grab-and-go options, including chips and snacks, will be available. For dessert, look for vegan cookies and bars from Vegalicious Confections and Marrianna Colins with DZ Bakery. Dirt Burger serves soft drinks from SmartSoda, a company with a special water purification system that provides alkaline and mineral-infused ice, still water and sparkling water. These waters can be mixed with vegan soda syrups made from natural cane sugar in 20-ounce compostable cups ($3), or customers can purchase a reusable bottle with the Dirt Burger logo on them to refill at a discount. Also look for Agri-Cultured kombucha on tap ($3.50), Vegas CBD water ($3) and local soft brews such as Peace Tree root beer ($3). The dirt on Dirt Burger Dirt Burger isn't just focusing on getting vegan food to customers fast. The partners wanted to figure out a way to help people eat better while greatly reducing what goes to the landfill. Fast food has always been a contributor of garbage in the form of wrappers, bags, cups and cartons. And that's why Dirt Burger uses only compostable packaging to help it become a zero-waste facility. "Everything we use here has to be compostable," Place said. "There's a little bit of expense involved, but we think it's worth it." All packaging and wrapping materials, and any food scraps or waste, are collected for composting with the help of RecycleMe Iowa, Compost Ninja. EcoCare Supply and US Foods. Even catering and delivery will adhere to the composting program. Employees will deliver orders on "Dirt Bikes" made by Dan Koenig of Ichi Bikes, leaving behind totes where customers can throw away their garbage. Dirt Burger will come back and collect that garbage for composting. Leading up to Dirt Burger's opening, restaurant veteran Chris Place has been finishing a degree in sustainable business management. But he's been wanting to do open a restaurant since graduating from the Culinary Insitute of America in Hyde Park in 1996. Before culinary school, Place attended art school at the University of Iowa. "I decided I was a better cook than a painter," he said. Place came back to Des Moines to open Nick's Bar & Grill with Skip Bachman, who he worked for before culinary school. Then, he worked for Orchestrate Hospitality with George Formaro and Paul Rottenberg. Place's longtime friend from their days at Proof, Tony Pille, studied horticulture and is an organic farmer in Jefferson. Owning Sun Gold Farms in Paton for five years, he recently purchased about five acres of family property and has plans to transform an existing barn into indoor and vertical gardens for year-round produce supplies for Dirt Burger. Place, Pille and Chapman have worked hard to bring Dirt Burger to life over the past three years, but they credit Adam Feller, a graphic designer and marketer with Avidity Creative, for designing the logo, helping with social media and painting the wall with help of an intern from Iowa State. Friend and carpenter Tyler Pollin built the countertops. Place has plans to open a separate production kitchen with hopes of opening more locations in the region   all purchasing acres of chemical-free produce while reducing the footprint of their supply chain. "We want to be as transparent as possible," Place said. Don't miss an opening or closing. Sign up now and we'll email you with big news . Dirt Burger Location: 407 East Fifth Street, Des Moines Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Contact: dirtburger.us ; Facebook This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Dirt Burger: New vegan restaurant opens in Des Moines' East Village


DALLAS - Rarely does a team have a player change his mind during free agency after making a verbal commitment to that team. Unless you are the Dallas Mavericks, who have had that happen twice in the span of two weeks. After agreeing to a four-year, $80 million contract with the Mavericks on July 3, free agent center DeAndre Jordan had a change of heart and in an 11th-hour reversal on July 8 decided to return to the Los Angeles Clippers on a four-year $88 million deal. On Tuesday, forward Richard Jefferson, 35, backed out of a one-year verbal agreement to return to the Mavs so he can sign a similar one-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to a source familiar with the situation. Jefferson's decision, however, was far less dramatic than the roller-coaster ride on which Jordan took the Mavs. Mavericks owner Mark Cuban told ESPN.com that Jefferson actually gave him a phone call - a courtesy not extended by Jordan - and told him of his decision. "He called and talked to me," Cuban told ESPN.com. "RJ said he had an opportunity with an Eastern Conference team. He said he would honor what he [originally agreed to with the Mavs] but thought the other was a better fit. "I told him I was OK with it and understood." In his one year with the Mavs last season, Jefferson averaged 5.8 points and 2.5 rebounds in 16.8 minutes per game. He shot 44.4 percent from the field, including 42.6 percent from 3-point range. This is the third time in three years a player has given the Mavericks a verbal commitment during free agency only to change his mind and go play elsewhere. In addition to Jordan and Jefferson, guard Jason Kidd reneged on a three-year, $9 million verbal agreement in the summer of 2012 to return to the Mavs so he could sign a contract of equal value and length with the New York Knicks. Dwain Price, 817-390-7760 Twitter: @dwainprice


With V8 power, incredible stance, and some nice upgrades. Streetside Classics is proud to announce this 1976 Ford F-250 Highboy 4x4 for sale at $34,995. This truck sports eye-catching stance, big V8 power, and the right upgrades to both get the job done and look good doing it. Rather than being a trailer queen, this truck is the one to tow other toys. It's a workaholic, but in excellent condition nonetheless. It includes a proper trailer hitch with electric hookup and trailer brake. What's more, the eight-foot bed with liner paint for added durability and longevity. For those who may be unfamiliar, the term "Highboy" was used to describe the particular stance on a truck. A true highboy has to have a divorced transfer case, rather than being attached to the back of the transmission like trucks of today. It will also contain three driveshafts, higher ride height, noticeable arch in the front springs, and a narrower frame. The F-250 "Highboy" 4x4 is also historically significant in that it served as the basis for the first monster truck, Bob Chandler's Bigfoot. This 1976 Ford F-250 Highboy 4x4 combines functionality and flair to act as the ultimate vintage hauler. Within the last few years, this truck received a bright blue paint job that emits a stunning luster whether indoors or outdoors. The deep blue tone and 16-inch polished wheels add to the beefy look of this pickup and accentuate the F-250's squared body lines. On the inside, this classic sports a color-matched dashboard, taut door panels, and a newer bench seat cover that retains the vintage feel. Interior upgrades include a grippy wood-rimmed steering wheel and Prodigy trailer brake control. This truck also packs quite the punch. The motor was upgraded to Ford's impressive 390 cubic-inch V8 paired to a three-speed automatic transmission. It also is equipped with a four-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust, power steering, and power brakes. It earns the Highboy nickname for its factory "lifted" stance, which looks extra-tough sitting on those BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires. This 4x4 also has Warn locking hubs up front to ensure the ultimate performance. The 1976 Ford F-250 you see here is solid and clean. Even the undercarriage is in great condition, as it's spent most of its life on the west coast. This classic 4x4 truck will become your best friend. It's an always-ready, go-anywhere rig that looks forward to any adventure. It's the total package, so don't let this sale pass you by. Call today and get this bad boy in your garage, on the road, or off it, for that matter. Read more... The Price Is Right On This 1985 Ford F-250 Lariat XLT 1968 Ford F-100 Ranger Short Bed Is A Conversation Starter


A huge fire that swept through a crowded Manila shanty town has razed more than 800 homes, leaving thousands homeless after they were forced to flee for their lives from the towering flames, officials said Thursday. Residents joined forces with firefighters to battle Wednesday's blaze which spread quickly among the narrow alleys, helping smash down the walls of makeshift houses to allow crews access to the flames. People evacuated their homes carrying young children and whatever possessions they could salvage, with thousands forced to seek shelter in makeshift tents at a local park. Despite the devastation, no one was killed in the disaster and only four people were injured as they clambered over their homes to escape, authorities said. Desperate locals called out "over here, over here" to a military helicopter which was drafted in to dump water on the blaze, after fire engines could not reach the heart of the inferno in the sprawling shanty town. "The alleys were too narrow and people were rushing out. Even worse, the wind was strong and fanned the flames," said chief fire marshall Nahum Vitarosa. He added that deaths were avoided because the fire broke out in the afternoon when residents were able to evacuate quickly. "If it happened at night, it would have been a real tragedy. People would have been left behind in the dark," he added. Residents are also used to coping with fires which break out frequently in shanty towns, although rarely on this scale, Vitarosa said. The cause of the fire is still under investigation but Vitarosa said authorities suspected a short circuit, possibly from an illegal connection to power lines. He added that about 2,000 families had been forced to seek shelter in a public park, a gym and a school while authorities looked for emergency housing. Manicurist Matilde Agustin, 59, said she narrowly escaped with her daughter-in-law and four grandchildren as the blaze engulfed their home. "We rushed out as soon as we could," she said, adding she fled carrying her youngest grandchild, a one-year-old girl. The family only managed to salvage a few meagre possessions including some clothes and a small statue of the infant Jesus, she told AFP. Her son Rommel Agustin, a labourer, was now going through the ruins, trying to find scrap metal he could sell but the rubble was still smoking, she added. The family was sheltering under a makeshift tent at a public park along with hundreds of other residents surviving on government food handouts. "It is shameful that we have to celebrate Christmas like this... but it is okay that almost nothing was saved as long as no one was hurt," she said. Fires in shanty towns, where homes are made of little more than scrap wood, are common in Manila -- a metropolis of more than 11 million people -- but Vitarosa said this was the worst such fire he had seen in five years.


COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina appears ready to offer $120 million in tax breaks to the Carolina Panthers to move their practice fields and team headquarters out of North Carolina, after the state Senate overrode objections that a billionaire NFL owner didn't need public help. The Senate voted 27-15 on Thursday to exempt the Panthers from paying state income taxes for players, coaches and other employees for 15 years as long as they use the money to build their new complex near Rock Hill. The team will continue to play its games 15 miles (25 kilometers) to the north in Charlotte, North Carolina. Gov. Henry McMaster was an enthusiastic backer of the proposal, along with a number of lawmakers. They spoke of South Carolina crawling out of the shadow of North Carolina and its massive Charlotte with hotels, restaurants as well as potentially landing a Major League Soccer team and hearing ESPN reports from Panthers practices constantly saying ''Rock Hill, South Carolina.'' ''This is a golden ticket,'' said Republican state Rep. Gary Simrill of Rock Hill. Some of the 15 senators who voted against the bill questioned why Panthers owner David Tepper needed any help after buying the Panthers for more than $2 billion last year while still having billions in the bank. ''This guy didn't acquire eleven-and-a-half billion giving away the farm. He has driven hard deal. This side has not,'' state Sen. Dick Harpootlian said. Tepper didn't immediately respond to the vote, but told reporters Wednesday he wasn't building in South Carolina without the incentives. Other senators against the bill said a state Commerce Department report suggesting the Panthers new complex would bring $3.8 billion in economic benefits was wildly exaggerated. Harpootlian, a Democrat from Columbia, paid for his own analysis from a conservative economist often used by Republicans who said the best case scenario brought the state only a third of that. Harpootlian's report found the state's review depended on every Panthers player and coach moving to South Carolina and spending their entire paychecks here and the team buying all the material for the new facility from companies in the state. The initial discussion of the facility also included an orthopedic hospital that may turn out to only be a sports injury rehabilitation facility, Harpootlian said, pointing out the Panthers never testified publicly about what they wanted to do or put any promises in writing. ''If we accomplished anything, maybe we will take a closer look at these deals,'' Harpootlian said. Tepper has made a new indoor practice facility a priority after heavy rains late last season forced the Panthers to move practices to a hotel ballroom. He also wanted to continue the team's ''two states, one team'' attitude that began when they played their inaugural season in 1995 at Clemson's stadium while their stadium in Charlotte was being built. The team still holds training camp every summer at Wofford University in Spartanburg, South Carolina. North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper didn't respond to South Carolina's vote Thursday. Bur a spokesman for North Carolina Senate leader Phil Berger said it's his understanding Cooper planned no incentives for a practice facility in his state. ''The state's partnership with the Panthers has been a successful one for the past 25 years and we hope they will keep pounding in Charlotte for years to come,'' Berger spokesman Bill D'Elia said in a statement. Tepper met privately with McMaster and legislative leaders in March and they immediately introduced the tax break proposal. The House passed it 90-25 less than two weeks after it was announced. The House and Senate are expected to work out a few minor changes and McMaster then will likely sign the bill. The Senate debated the bill for more than two hours with several twists and turns. Republican Sen. Larry Grooms of Charleston suggested adding a proposal that would require the Panthers to play two regular season home games a year at one of South Carolina's two major college football stadiums. It was killed and there was no indication whether the Panthers or the NFL would have allowed it. While Tepper would benefit from the bill, South Carolina would also benefit greatly for decades, well after Cam Newton is finished as the team's franchise quarterback, Simrill said. ''The Panthers organization, the average pay is 39 times that of the median South Carolina income. We derive our income between sales tax and income tax. Look at the income tax that will come from the Panthers organization to South Carolina,'' Simrill said. That is a risky bet without nailing down the promises from the Panthers, Harpootlian said. ''It might be cheaper to build a house for Cam Newton and ask him to live in Columbia,'' Harpootlian said. --- Gary D. Robertson in Raleigh, North Carolina, contributed to this report. --- Follow Jeffrey Collins on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JSCollinsAP . Read his work at https://apnews.com/search/jeffrey%20collins Related slideshow: Top picks of 2019 NFL Draft (provided by imagn)


No oven, no problem. When summer strikes, you shouldn't be subjected to that oven heat just to satisfy your sweets cravings-that's where the icebox cake comes into play. While the dessert is typically made with layers of cookies and whipped cream, these 10 takes on the classic cake will kick your new favorite no-bake dessert up a notch. For more dessert ideas, here are 70+ of our favorite no-bake sweets and even more summer-friendly desserts ! Easy Icebox Cake Few desserts are as easy as an icebox cake. (Okay, we see you 3-ingredient sugar cookies .) If you can whip cream, you're basically halfway there! Get the recipe from Delish . Milk N' Cookies Icebox Cake This no-bake showstopper only has 4 ingredients! Get the recipe from Delish . Matzoh Icebox Cake This icebox cake doesn't only have to be a Passover tradition. Did we mention it tastes like tiramisu!? Get the recipe from Delish . Peanut Butter Icebox Cake This is the perfect make-ahead dessert. The longer it chills, the easier it will be to get a clean slice. Make it tonight and you'll be thanking yourself tomorrow. Get the recipe from Delish . Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake Think your favorite childhood ice cream truck dessert, but in cake form. Doesn't get much better than that! Get the recipe from Delish . Oreo Funfetti Icebox Cake Chocolate Oreos shouldn't have all the fun. Get the recipe from Delish . Banana Pudding Icebox Cake Here in New York, instant banana pudding mix is hard to come by, so we used vanilla instead. And since there are tons of bananas in the cake, it really doesn't matter! If banana pudding is available in your area, feel free to sub in. Get the recipe from Delish . Black & White Cheesecake Icebox Cake We've taken the classic chocolate wafer icebox cake and made it part cheesecake. Get the recipe from Delish . S'mores Icebox Cake It's five layers of s'mores bliss. Get the recipe from Delish . Caramel Apple Cheesecake Icebox Cake The only thing that makes an icebox cake more tempting? When it has a cheesecake filling. Get the recipe from Delish .


The Shops of College Place, a shopping center home to Clemson Confectioneries , Blue Heron, Mayberry's and other businesses, could be replaced by student housing in coming years. In March 2017, a developer first submitted a proposal to the city's Board of Architectural Review for an apartment complex on the 2.52-acre site at 405 College Avenue. After a few months of back-and-forth with the board, though, the developer, Gilbane Development Company, did not put forward any further plans. "They pulled out because there were so many other projects coming online at the same time," said Clemson's director of planning and codes, Todd Steadman. Steadman said the developer wanted to make sure the market was not over-saturated with student housing . Then, on June 11, the developer came back to the table with an updated proposal. Steadman said the developer had to redesign the project to meet new standards that have changed in the city since 2017. The property is owned by the Restaurant Corporation of Clemson, according to the filing. The new submission includes 354 bees and 12,841 square feet of commercial space. The original plan from 2017 called for 373 beds and 14,000 square feet of commercial space. The number of proposed parking spaces for the project has been increased from 378 to 397. While the submission does not mention students, the minutes from the 2017 meetings with the review board indicate the project is intended for student housing. The project joins a list of other new student developments, including two planned developments, one nearby on Keowee Trail and one at the old Holiday Inn site on Lake Hartwell. One challenge the 405 College Avenue project has to overcome is an easement held by the Corps of Engineers Savannah District. If the Corps decides to raise Lake Hartwell's level, it would swamp the back of the property, the Independent Mail reported in 2017. NEWS FROM YOUR COMMUNITY Our journalists live and work in the area and bring news from communities that dot the Upstate. Help support stories like this and local journalism by becoming a subscriber . In order to accommodate the Corps easement, the proposed development would have two discrete buildings   the apartments and commercial units in the front and a parking deck in the back, Steadman said. The proposal will be reviewed at the July Board of Architectural Review meeting. More: New student housing bid for downtown Clemson More: Clemson University's Fike pool to close Aug. 1; reopening date not set More: After recent strained relations, Clemson's city-university advisory board plans to reset This article originally appeared on The Greenville News: 373 bedrooms could replace Blue Heron, others on Clemson's College Ave


U.S. President Donald Trump is in Japan on a state visit, where he touched on the subject of North Korea. No reporter narration.


LAHINCH, Ireland   Jon Rahm captured the Irish Open title for the second time in three years after shooting 8-under 62 in the final round to win by two strokes on Sunday. It was the Spaniard's second victory of 2019, after winning the Zurich Classic team event on the PGA Tour with Ryan Palmer in April, and the fourth victory in two years on the European Tour. Rahm tamed the Lahinch links in western Ireland by making an eagle and eight birdies, including one from 3 feet at No. 14 after an approach with a 5-iron from rough right of the fairway. He finished on 16-under 264. Full-field scores from the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open Rafa Cabrera Bello started the day a shot behind third-round leader Robert Rock but was in front by two strokes after making three birdies in his first five holes. He was soon passed by the rampaging Rahm and fell away by bogeying four of the first six holes of the back nine. Andy Sullivan and Bernd Wiesberger both shot 66 and were tied for second place. Rock (70), Cabrera-Bello (69) and Eddie Pepperell (69) were tied for fourth, a further shot back. Rock, Wiesberger and Paul Waring all earned spots in the British Open for being the highest finishers in the top 10 among players who aren't otherwise exempt.


As our flight from Istanbul sweeps over Turkey's southwestern coastline, my first thought is: "Ah, so that's why it's called the Turquoise Coast." My second thought, looking around the airplane, is that everyone else is probably thinking exactly the same thing. The water, clear as Baccarat crystal, is, after all, a surreal kaleidoscope of electric blues, teals and greens. And outlined dramatically by thickly forested hills and ochre limestone cliffs, it's etched into the coastline in a series of protected coves and bays each more inviting than the last. The best part? There's more than 600 miles of this spectacular shoreline, extending from the province of Antalya in the south to the Cesme peninsula in the north. We've arrived in Bodrum, one of the two cities -- the other being Antalya -- that bookend the area also known to travel agents and sun-seeking vacationers as the Turkish Riviera. Long a popular vacation spot for Turkish city-dwellers and adventurous European and British holiday-makers, Bodrum and its environs have only recently hit the wider world's radar. Traveling Turkey Rebounding after a difficult three years due to political unrest, tourism in Turkey was up 22% in 2018 , with an estimated almost 40 million international tourists visiting the country. And while Istanbul is still Turkey's top travel draw, the Turquoise Coast is seeing significant growth as well. (For example, the number of Americans, while still making up a small percentage of the whole, increased more than 30% year over year.) Less crowded than Santorini and St. Tropez and considerably more affordable, Bodrum remains blessedly free of the kind of overtourism that comes with cruise ship day-trippers, since its port can accommodate just two large ships -- and infrequently sees those. Yet it's definitely on the rise, as evidenced by the opening of several hotels and resorts from top luxury brands, including the Bodrum Edition, designed by Ian Shrager for Marriot's elite brand, the Six Senses Kaplankaya, and a Four Seasons slated to open in 2020. The Mandarin Oriental, where we based ourselves, is also a relatively recent addition to the scene. With its secluded cliff-side perch, pristine private beach and convenient location, the property is a fine choice for first-time visitors. The number of private villas is also on the rise, with developments creeping up the steep hillsides. Despite all this new construction, Bodrum is no upstart. Founded as the ancient city of Helicarnassas, it was first mentioned by Homer in the "Odyssey" and then by Herodotus, and was a thriving trading port when it was captured by Alexander the Great in the fourth century. Spreading upwards from a crescent-shaped bay dominated by the towering 15th-century castle of St. Peter, Bodrum today is popular for its markets, its nightlife, and its ferry port, from which boats make daily day trips to the Greek island of Kos, 50 minutes away. While much of the castle -- including its famed museum of underwater archaeology -- is closed for renovations until early 2020, enough is open to experience the grandeur of the setting with its commanding views of the harbor. The nearby 4th-century Tomb of Mausolus -- one of the original seven wonders of the ancient world and from which we get the world mausoleum -- and the Greek amphitheater above it give a sense of Helicarnassas' storied past. Beach/boat life But the primary lure of Bodrum, which also encompasses the entire thumb-shaped peninsula north of town, is its golden sand beaches, and there are quite literally dozens to choose from. Favorites include Bitez, Torba, Yahsi and Gümbet, all of which are lined with shaded sun loungers and boast calm waters and easy access to cafes and restaurants. As the road dips and weaves along the coast, humble fishing villages alternate with glitzy yacht harbors for a dizzying variety of seaside experiences. Stop by Yalikavak's Palmarina harbor to admire the mega-yachts of Ukrainian billionaires and watch the jet set browsing Armani in the marina's ultra-modern mall, then head to the slightly ramshackle fishing village of Gümüslük, where a string of waterside cafes serves up fresh seafood under trees bedecked with carved gourd lanterns. There, you can sample the stuffed mussels known as midye dolma, a local staple, before moving on to traditional Turkish dondurma ice cream, its characteristic chewy texture derived from the addition of orchid root flour and a type of natural gum, or resin, called mastic. Refreshing flavors include fresh melon and mint. As the tide drops and the late afternoon sun's rays illuminate the water, it's a good time to spot the King's Road of the ancient city of Myndos, its enormous stone blocks now submerged in the waters of the lagoon leading to Rabbit Island. Closest to our hotel, the lively village of Göltürbükü occupies a pretty bay where restaurants jut over the water on floating docks and bars thrum with live music. Most visitors to the area take at least one half- or full-day boat trip, which is highly recommended as the best way to appreciate the craggy beauty of the coastline, which can't be seen in full from the road. Depending on the itinerary, boat trips may include snorkeling, a stop at one of the many small islands offshore, lunch -- or all three if it's an all-day trip. Our boat trip featured a stop at Black Island (Kara Ada) , known for its mineral pools, and a lunch spread of traditional mezze small plates. No matter what our day's plan, we start off with a traditional kahvalti -- or Turkish breakfast -- a lavish spread of cheeses, olives, sausage, honey and jams served with cucumber, tomato and fluffy bread to be dipped and slathered in any combination you choose. On the wheels of history One hundred miles north of Bodrum, the UNESCO world heritage site of Ephesus is on the must-go list of most visitors to the Turquoise Coast. With some parts dating from the 10th century BCE and splendid examples of early Greek and Roman architecture, Ephesus is both the oldest and most complete ancient city ever excavated. And it doesn't disappoint: Standing in the middle of the broad Arcadian road, its massive blocks of marble still perfectly fitted and smooth from 2,000 years of use, it's not hard to imagine the thunder of chariot wheels or the march of gladiators en route to the enormous amphitheater that stair-steps up the hill above it. While it is possible to do Ephesus as a day trip from Bodrum, staying in the adjacent village of Selcuk or the nearby port city of Kusadasi makes it easier to be at the gates when they open, an advantage for those who want to experience the ruins before the large tour buses arrive. Either way, plan for at least four hours (and more if you're a history buff) to see all the main sites, which in addition to the great theater include Hadrian's Gate, the agora or marketplace, the terrace houses with their well-preserved stone mosaic floors, and the awe-inspiring Library of Celsus, with its intricately carved façade and smooth-faced statues of the four virtues. Also on most visitors' itineraries are the area's other historic sites, chief among them the Maryemana, or Virgin Mary's House, where the devoted light candles in the tiny chapel and tuck prayers between the stones of the wishing wall, and the Basilica of St. John. This simple pillared tomb is believed to be the final resting place of St. John the Apostle; above it, Ayasoluk Castle makes a perfect spot to watch the sunset. Greek influence There are times when Turkey's Aegean coast feels like the best kind of Mamma Mia Greek island fantasy, and nowhere is this more true than in Alaçati, an 18th-century warren of cobblestone streets topped by a cluster of round stone windmills. Located on the Cesme peninsula an hour and a half north of Ephesus, Alacati makes a perfect final stop for those who choose to make their return flight from Izmir. Settled by Greek workers who came to tend the area's vineyards and olive orchards, Alaçati is almost absurdly photogenic. Substantial houses of oatmeal-colored stone draped in clouds of bougainvillea, each with its bright blue, red or yellow door and overhanging balcony windows line the streets. All but abandoned in the 1920s when Turkey's Greek immigrants departed the country in a religion-based population swap, Alaçati was rediscovered by windsurfers who came to take advantage of the peninsula's stiff breezes, then stayed to restore the dilapidated structures into artsy hideaways. Now, in the classic tradition of fishing villages turned art colonies a la the Hamptons or California's Carmel-by-the-Sea, Alaçati has become the favored retreat of Turkey's elite, who stake out space on its white sand beaches by day, then take advantage of the warm evenings to shop its bohemian boutiques and gather in its open air cafes. Boutique hotels define the experience here, among them our choice of Alavya, an artful enclave in the heart of the village made up of five historic houses joined together around a restful garden that was once the town's open-air cinema. In the past five years, Alacati's popularity has begun to extend to outsiders, but you can still feel as though you've stumbled onto a secret as we do, toasting our luck with the region's rich red Urla wine, the perfect accompaniment to the aromatic clay pot fish casserole known as guveç. Still a center of Turkey's wine and olive production, Alacati is renowned for its produce and artisanal food, and the Saturday draws shoppers from far beyond the region. Stalls line the main road through town and extend up numerous side streets, tables laden with fruit and vegetables, fresh bread, and the day's fish catch on ice. Local cheesemakers hand out dollops of thick curds, spice sellers tout figs and saffron, and booths display hand-labeled jars of local olives, gallon jugs of honey, and jams in exotic -- at least to us -- flavors like walnut and preserved lemon. Afterwards, admiring a pair of turquoise earrings in the open air craft market surrounding Alaçati's central mosque, I'm reminded that the name Turquoise Coast has an additional meaning as well. While aptly describing the landscape, it also refers to a little-known fact of Turkish history -- the origin of the beloved gemstone. When European traders first discovered a previously unknown bright blue gem in Turkish bazaars, they called it Turkish stone, or pierre Turquoise in French. And thus a name -- and a color -- were born. Related video: Breath-taking air balloon ride over the Drakensberg


The UFC 238 official poster features four fighters, including an Olympic gold medalist and two UFC champions. It does not, however, feature the event's most compelling attraction. The most fascinating fighter on the card is a frenetic ball of energy with a winning streak that outlasts most UFC careers, a contender who is chasing down the elusive title opportunity that continues to remain just out of reach, a man that has faced down professional obstacles and personal challenges. When Tony Ferguson finished his open workout, the Chicago fans did what they had during the course of his 24 minutes punching, kicking and dancing on the mat. They cheered, they chanted, they screamed. They pulled him into a virtual embrace. Handed the spotlight, Ferguson waited for the shrieks to silence, recited his "champ s t only" tagline, and dropped the mic to more wild wailing. Ferguson has been a staple in the UFC for nearly a decade. He is 35 years old in a division where age matters, a year removed from knee surgery, and just three months separated from a series of incidents where he reportedly exhibited concerning behavior, leading to a restraining order against him filed by his wife. The last year has been a very difficult one for him, but Ferguson, as always, has shown incredible resilience. Here he is, knee back to full health, wife and son alongside him in Chicago for fight week. Here he is, deftly sidestepping any questions related to his rocky stretch. Here he is, doing what Tony Ferguson always does: moving forward. With that backdrop, Ferguson has found himself in an unlikely position as the event's breakout star, even against longtime fan favorite Donald Cerrone . After years of toiling away, Ferguson has become a sympathetic figure to MMA fans, who likely can identify with some element of his many difficulties. As great as he is as a fighter, he's also very human and relatable. And suddenly, he is more popular than ever. Still, there is some concern that Ferguson may be returning too quickly. Between February and March, police were called to the Ferguson house three times. By late April, Ferguson's wife dropped the restraining order against him, and three weeks later he was booked in the cage. It is fair to wonder about whether it is too much, too soon, and about if Ferguson truly addressed the root causes of his troubles. Most of these concerns for him are genuine. Ferguson has always been a unique character, one who mangles common expressions or reimagines them into new ones, depending on your perspective. His offbeat personality makes him likable to some, interesting to all. He is also remarkably intense. He earned a Michigan state wrestling championship in high school, captured the NCAA Division II wrestling championship four years later, won The Ultimate Fighter in 2011, and added the UFC interim lightweight title to his mantle in 2017. It's a lot of gold, yet there remains one piece of hardware missing, and despite his 11-fight win streak, he still apparently needs to do more to get his chance. He has to outgun the Cowboy. Still, Ferguson insists the awards aren't the thing. "Why do I do this?" he asks, grinning and pointing his index fingers into his dimples during a media obligation. "Smiles, man." Ferguson does exude a certain amount of joy in his work. He walks, sways and shimmies out to the cage to dance music, often fights with reckless abandon, and seems to celebrate the spilling of his opponent's blood. He is a certified wild man. As a fan, there is little more you'd want in a champion, if only he could get there. This, after all, is a sport replete with characters, and even within this subculture, Ferguson stands out. Part of his story is not widely known. Ferguson, born Anthony Padilla, grew up without his father, only meeting him briefly at age 13. When his mother met and became engaged to another man, they moved from California to Michigan, where he excelled in sports. His mom eventually married the man, and Tony took his stepfather's surname as his own. Ferguson has alluded to being abandoned by his dad as a seminal moment in his life. His stated focus though, is always moving forward and presumably, being the kind of dad his own never was. Part of this goes on behind the scenes in the kind of private moments that aren't meant for public consumption, but part of it is in the example he sets as a fierce competitor and as a winner. On Saturday, as Ferguson walks back to the Octagon to leave a stressful piece of history behind, that part of his identity gets restored. If he wins, how can the UFC deny him again? If he loses, his streak will be all for naught. Or will it? Ferguson only knows how to move forward, and the army behind him seems to be growing.


The reunion between the New England Patriots and Jamie Collins might work out after all. Early indications from Wednesday's minicamp are that the former All-Pro linebacker might play a much bigger role in the defense than previously expected. He has been working in with the starting defense, and according to ESPN's Mike Reiss, he is looking like a key contributor on the field. Practice notes: Quite a bit w/ run game, and with Sony Michel not on the field (reason unknown), rookie RB Damien Harris gets quality reps. LB Jamie Collins (pictured) active and looking like key cog. Matt LaCosse as top TE. Maurice Harris with top WRs. Catching everything. pic.twitter.com/YAvNYDukRb - Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) June 5, 2019 Those comments echo the same observations from The Athletic's Nick Underhill on Tuesday. Jamie Collins stood out a few times. His long arms made the quarterbacks alter a few throws, leading to incompletions. - Nick Underhill (@nick_underhill) June 4, 2019 A rapid decline in production came for Collins after he was traded by the Patriots to the Cleveland Browns, who signed him to a four-year, $50 million contract extension in 2017. The two sides only made it halfway through the deal before the Browns cut their losses and released the once feared linebacker in March. And then Belichick picked up the phone. News of Collins' return to the Patriots was a bit of a surprise initially considering the wealth of talent the team already has at linebacker. However, Collins has often been lauded for his versatility and freakish physical abilities. The decision to bring him back ultimately boiled down to Belichick refusing to pass on a good football player. Most of the excitement around the Patriots defense so far has lingered on their defensive backfield, but the combination of Collins, Dont'a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy and Ja'Whaun Bentley could be something out of nightmares for opposing offenses. MORE: Heavyweight champ Andy Ruiz hits back at Stephen A. Smith after 'Butter Bean' comment These five upcoming NBA free agents helped themselves in the playoffs Observations from day 1 of Lions minicamp: pick city Five candidates for the ALL-USA Boys Soccer Coach of the Year Cole Beasley plans to annoy Josh Allen


The players who dominate the NFL are gridiron warriors who are not to be messed with, but you'd never know it based on these adorable pics shared by NFL on ESPN Thursday. Check out these baby face-filtered poses that will have you in awe at just how cute these stars are. Baby Face Filter: NFL Edition pic.twitter.com/EjqZMYzWg2   NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 23, 2019 pic.twitter.com/gTIoUf6ffY   NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 23, 2019 pic.twitter.com/AyP0SBIjNw   NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 23, 2019 pic.twitter.com/mX0Uj418H7   NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) May 23, 2019 It's hard to pick a favorite. All of them are so darn cute. Though, the mustache on Antonio Brown needs to go. Related slideshow: A look at Gronk's career (provided by Tribune News Service)