KING COUNTY, Wash.   Authorities say that a Fourth of July house fire that spread to another home and killed an elderly man and his dog was caused by fireworks. The fire happened along 10th Avenue S. in the Highline neighborhood of unincorporated King County. Emergency crews were able to get 70-year-old Roland Kennedy out of the home, but he died at the scene. Thirteen people were left without a place to live after the fire. The King County Sheriff's Office said Monday that investigators determined the fire was caused by fireworks but added that the investigation is ongoing. Neighbors told Q13 News on Friday that they suspected fireworks were to blame. "It was just raining stuff [that night]," Dave White said.     ©2019 KCPQ-TV, Seattle Visit KCPQ-TV, Seattle at www.q13fox.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


As their minivan rolled north, they felt their nerves kick in   but they kept on driving. At the wheel: Lija Greenseid, a rule-abiding Minnesota mom steering her Mazda5 on a cross-border drug run. Her daughter, who is 13, has Type 1 diabetes and needs insulin. In the United States, it can cost hundreds of dollars per vial. In Canada, you can buy it without a prescription for a tenth of that price. So, Greenseid led a small caravan last month to the town of Fort Frances, Ontario, where she and five other Americans paid about $1,200 for drugs that would have cost them $12,000 in the United States. Subscribe to the Post Most newsletter: Today's most popular stories on The Washington Post "It felt like we were robbing the pharmacy," said Quinn Nystrom, a Type 1 diabetic who joined the caravan that day. "It had been years since I had 10 vials in my hands." They're planning another run to Canada this month to stock up on insulin   and to call attention to their cause. This time, they'll be taking the scenic route, driving from Minnesota through Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan en route to London, Ontario, where insulin was discovered nearly a century ago. Like millions of Americans, Greenseid and Nystrom are stressed and outraged by the rising costs of prescription drug s in the United States   a problem Republicans and Democrats alike have promised to fix. Insulin is a big part of the challenge. More than 30 million Americans have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. About 7.5 million, including 1.5 million with Type 1 diabetes, rely on insulin. Between 2012 and 2016, the cost of insulin for treating Type 1 diabetes nearly doubled , according to the nonprofit Health Care Cost Institute. Some pharmaceutical companies, under pressure from U.S. lawmakers, have tried to reduce the cost for some patients. But many who rely on insulin still struggle. Large numbers resort to rationing   a dangerous and sometimes deadly practice. Some diabetics and their families are taking matters into their own hands. They meet in coffee shops and strip mall parking lots to exchange emergency supplies. An unknown number travel outside the country to buy the lifesaving drug for less. None of this is recommended by U.S. officials, and some of it might be illegal under Food and Drug Administration guidelines. But the organizers of the caravan   their word, a nod to the migrants traveling in groups through Mexico to the U.S. border   are speaking out about their trip because they want Americans to see how drug prices push ordinary people to extremes. "When you have a bad health-care system, it makes good people feel like outlaws ," Greenseid said. "It's demeaning. It's demoralizing. It's unjust." The caravaners aren't the only ones looking north. Republicans and Democrats have produced federal and state proposals to import drugs from Canada. Those ideas aren't necessarily popular in Ottawa, where many worry that bulk buys from the United States could cause shortages or higher prices. Barry Power, director of therapeutic content with the Canadian Pharmacists Association, said the group is tracking both U.S. drug-buying proposals and reports of cross-border trade closely but has yet to see a disruption to Canadian insulin supplies. He said insulin prices in Canada are controlled through policy, including price caps and negotiations with manufacturers. "This is something the U.S. could do," he said. When the Canadian scientist Frederick Banting co-discovered insulin in the early 1920s, he balked at commercializing it because it seemed unethical to profit from a critical drug. He eventually sold his share of the patent to the University of Toronto for $1 , in the hope the drug would remain widely accessible. In the nearly 100 years since, insulin has become a lifeline for millions. But the price in the United States has surged in ways its discoverers could not have predicted. When Nystrom was diagnosed with diabetes as a child in the late 1990s, she said, her family paid about $15 to $20 a vial. Now, at 33, she sometimes pays more than $300 for the same amount. Nicole Smith-Holt, who drove north with Greenseid and Nystrom, said her son spent about $1,000 per month on the drug. Alec Raeshawn Smith, an uninsured Type 1 diabetic, rationed his insulin supply due to cost , his mother said. He died in 2017. Elizabeth Pfiester is founder and executive director of T1International, a British-based nonprofit that advocates for people with Type 1 diabetes around the world. "It's kind of a myth that America has the best health-care system in the world, because it is set up to allow Americans to go bankrupt or die because they can't afford their medicine," she said. Pfiester grew up in the United States. One of the reasons her organization is based overseas, she said, is that the cost of treating her diabetes in the United States is so high. "What I think is quite clear is that these companies will charge what they can get away with," she said. "They have been able to get away with costs going up because of a broken and opaque health-care system." A spokeswoman for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America noted that drug companies are increasingly offering rebates on insulin in the United States   but they aren't always reaching consumers. "Too often, these negotiated discounts and rebates are not shared with patients, resulting in the sickest patients paying higher out-of-pocket costs to subsidize the healthy," PhRMA spokeswoman Holly Campbell said in an email. "This is the opposite of how health insurance is supposed to work." Greenseid, who has purchased insulin for her daughter in six countries, said U.S. prices stand out as not just high, but as unpredictable. As people bounce between insurance plans and navigate rebates, she said, you often "have no idea how much you are going to pay." In the United States, you can buy some types of insulin without a prescription . But to get the newer analog insulin on which Type 1 diabetics rely, you need to visit or call your doctor. If Nystrom forgets to pack enough for an extended trip, she said, she needs to get her endocrinologist on the phone. In Canada, she can walk into a pharmacy and get the analog insulin she needs. "The attitude up there is: 'Why would someone buy insulin if they didn't need it?' " Nystrom said. On their first trip north, the caravaners received support from Canadians, they said, but also accusations that they were looting drug supplies. "We heard a lot of comments like, 'Canada needs to put up a wall,'" Smith-Holt said. "I was like, 'Oh, come on .' " Before the group set out for Fort Frances, they said, they called ahead to check that the local pharmacy had enough to fill their order without disrupting supply. They see buying in Canada as a short-term emergency measure and a way to call attention to U.S. pricing   not the answer. "I don't think that the solution is going outside the United States," Greenseid said. "The reason they have lower prices is because they have put in regulations to make sure their citizens are not paying too much. We have not yet made that decision in the U.S." LaShawn McIver is senior vice president for government affairs and advocacy at the American Diabetes Association. "Insulin is not a luxury, it is a matter of life and death," she wrote in an emailed statement. "Action to reduce the high out-of-pocket costs that endanger the lives of the millions of Americans who depend on this medication is critical and urgently needed." A spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the FDA, said the Trump administration is focused on lowering drug prices. "President Trump and [Health AMD Human Services] Secretary [Alex] Azar are firmly committed to getting drug prices down," spokeswoman Caitlin B. Oakley wrote in an email. "They are both very open to the importation of prescription drugs as long as it can be done safely and can deliver real results for American patients." Until things change, the caravaners say, they'll keep driving. Their first trip led to queries from families across the country, they said, including Type 1 diabetics, parents of children with diabetes and family members supporting elderly relatives with diabetes. Some want to join. So when they head north in a few weeks, they'll switch from family cars to a chartered bus. emily.rauhala@washpost.com


NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- New York City ranks as one of the worst run cities in the country for the third straight year, a study by Wallethub finds . The Big Apple ranked 146th out of 150 American cities ranked. The site compared the cities on six factors: financial stability, education, infrastructure and pollution, health, safety and economy. The low ranking was actually a small improvement over the past two years, in which NYC finished 148th each year. The city's overall rank was sunk but its 114th finish in economy, 60th rank in education and 80th place in financial stability. The only cities ranking below New York this year were Chattanooga, TN, San Francisco, CA, Gulfport, MS and Washington, DC. Like 1010 WINS on Facebook and follow @1010WINS on Twitter to get breaking news, traffic, and weather for New York City.


The Phillies announced that they've placed Vince Velasquez on the 10-day injured list with a right forearm strain. In a corresponding move, the club recalled lefty Austin Davis from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. However, the Phillies will select southpaw Cole Irvin from Triple-A to start in Velasquez's place Sunday in Kansas City. Irvin will take the last open spot on the Phillies' 40-man roster. This is the latest in a long line of arm injuries for Velasquez, who has logged IL time in the past for a biceps strain and a flexor strain, among other problems. Moreover, it's worth noting a forearm strain sent budding Rays ace Tyler Glasnow to the shelf for four to six weeks on Saturday. Velasquez suggested this isn't nearly as serious as Glasnow's injury, though, telling Scott Lauber of Philly.com and other reporters that he only expects to miss one start. Velasquez, 26, hasn't turned into the front-line starter the Phillies wanted when they acquired the then-prospect in a 2015 blockbuster with the Astros, though he has generally been a capable rotation piece. But Velasquez did endure back-to-back subpar starts prior to his IL placement, and most of his production this year hasn't been nearly as encouraging as the 3.99 ERA and 9.2 K/9 he has put up over six starts and 29 1/3 frames. Along with those numbers, Velasquez has notched a horrid 5.81 FIP with 4.6 BB/9 and, compared to 2018, seen his swinging-strike and contact rates go in the wrong direction. He's also yielding more than two home runs per nine and benefiting from a .250 batting average on balls in play and a 90.1 percent strand rate. With Velasquez down, the 25-year-old Irvin will make his big league debut three seasons after the Phillies chose him in the fifth round of the 2016 draft. The former Oregon Duck had been enjoying his second straight sub-3.00 ERA season at the Triple-A level before his promotion, though the rest of his numbers have gone backward since 2018. While MLB.com ranks Irvin as the Phillies' 16th-best prospect, lauding "his ability to use his four-pitch mix well to keep hitters guessing and off-balance," the outlet adds that he only features one above-average offering (a changeup).


The Buccaneers are one step closer to wrapping up their offseason business. The team announced that third-round safety Mike Edwards had signed his four-year rookie deal. The 99th overall pick from Kentucky, Edwards could end up competing for a starting job this year. He played multiple positions in college, and his versatility will only help him win a job. He had 10 interceptions in college, and returned two of them for touchdowns. The Bucs have just two unsigned picks left   first-round linebacker Devin White , and third-round cornerback Jamel Dean .


Since the US and Chinese militaries became neighbors in the small African country of Djibouti, they haven't been getting along very well. Rear Adm. Heidi Berg, the director of intelligence at the US Africa Command, has accused the Chinese military of "irresponsible actions," telling reporters recently that Chinese forces at a nearby base have been harassing US forces at the neighboring Camp Lemonnier base. Berg, according to the Washington Times, said that the Chinese military has attempted to restrict access to international airspace near its base, targeted US pilots with ground lasers, and sent out drones to interfere with flight operations. She also accused the Chinese military of "intrusion activity," explaining that there have been "attempts to gain access to Camp Lemmonier." The US base, which opened in 2001 and is home to roughly 4,000 US military and civilian personnel, is an important strategic facility that has served as a launch site for US counter-terrorism activities in east Africa. China opened its base, its first overseas military installation, nearby in the summer of 2017. China insists that the purpose of what it calls an "overseas support facility" is the "better undertaking its international responsibilities and obligations and better protecting its lawful interests." The movement of Chinese forces into the area have made US military leaders uneasy. "We've never had a base of, let's just say a peer competitor, as close as this one happens to be," Gen. Thomas Waldhauser, AFRICOM commander, told Breaking Defense just prior to the opening of China's facility. "There are some very significant operational security concerns." The laser incidents Berg mentioned were first reported last year, when the Pentagon sent a formal complaint to Beijing after two C-130 pilots suffered injuries. Read more : US military pilots in the Pacific are being targeted with lasers after similar incidents in Africa China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs argued that the latest allegations against it do "not align with the facts," adding that "China has always abided by international laws and laws of the host countries and is committed to maintaining regional safety and stability." Senior Captain Zhang Junshe, a military expert at the People's Liberation Army Naval Military Studies Research Institute, told the Global Times, a state-affiliated Chinese publication, that the US has been sending low-flying aircraft to conduct spying operations near the Chinese facility. The Global Times said that US accusations were "just the same old tune struck up again by the US to defame China."


Medieval fantasy television series "Game of Thrones" and "Going Clear," a shock documentary on Scientology, were crowned with awards at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards. Saturday's ceremony, which gave out technical achievement prizes, came just eight days before the main Emmy awards show. "Game of Thrones," which has achieved cult series status, collected eight prizes in categories including special visual effects, casting and sound editing. The fantasy saga has the most nominations going into the September 20 main Emmys ceremony, with 24 in total. "American Horror Show: Freak Show," starring Jessica Lange, followed next in Saturday's awards with five prizes. Alex Gibney's "Going Clear" documentary and "The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst," about the reclusive real estate figure suspected of murder, also fared well.


Brad Keselowski won Saturday night's Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway in an overtime finish, claiming his third win of the season. Keselowski triumphed in the two-lap shootout over Alex Bowman , Erik Jones , Chase Elliott and Clint Bowyer . The overtime finish was caused by Matt DiBenedetto 's engine expiring with four laps left in the scheduled distance. Keselowski took the lead three laps before that with a pass of Alex Bowman on the outside in Turn 3. Bowman led 63 laps and has finished second in the last three races. "That restart, we just got a great launch," Keselowski told Fox Sports 1. "Alex Bowman, I tell you he's going to win a race. He did a great job today. We just a had a little bit fresher tires than he did." Keselowski dedicated his win to Mike Mittler, a long-time Truck Series owner who passed away Friday. "He helped a lot of guys in their career and I was one of them," Keselowski said. "He was local to here and he passed away yesterday. Just such a huge loss for the NASCAR community. He's one of those unsung heroes that works in the garage, gave his whole to this sport. … Hurts to see those guys go away." Kyle Busch had to pit for a tire rub with 21 laps to go . He finished 30th, ending his stretch of races to start the season with a top-10 finish at 11 races. STAGE 1 WINNER: Kevin Harvick STAGE 2 WINNER: Chase Elliott Click here for results and point standings. WHO HAD A GOOD RACE : Erik Jones finished third to match his best finish of the year (Daytona 500) … Chase Elliott earned his third straight top five, tying him with Alex Bowman for the best active streak … Clint Bowyer earned his first Kansas top five since April 2014 …. Tyler Reddick placed ninth for his first career Cup top 10 in just his second start. WHO HAD A BAD RACE: Kevin Harvick had the car to beat until he had to pit unexpectedly with 88 laps to go for an issue with his right-side tires. But crew chief Rodney Childers said no problem was found. After leading 104 laps, Harvick placed 13th … Denny Hamlin spun on his own in Stage 1 and was never competitive. He finished 16th … Ryan Blaney placed 32nd after he made contact with the wall in the final stage and had to pit for repairs. NOTABLE: Alex Bowman is the first winless driver to finish second in three straight races … Brad Keselowski earned his 30th Cup win, tying him with Kurt Busch for 26th all time … The cars of Keselowski and Quin Houff each had on unsecured lug nut after the race. WHAT'S NEXT : Monster Energy Open/All-Star Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway at 6 p.m. ET on May 18 on Fox Sports 1


PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland (AP) The outcome was never in doubt to just about everyone but Shane Lowry. A year ago, he sat in the parking lot at Carnoustie and cried after missing the cut in the British Open for the fourth straight year. Even with a four-shot lead Sunday at Royal Portrush, in a raging wind and pouring rain, Lowry kept telling his caddie he was nervous and scared, worried that he would ruin a storybook ending to the first Open in Northern Ireland in 68 years. ''I suppose I didn't even know going out this morning if I was good enough to win a major,'' Lowry said. ''And look, I'm here now, a major champion. I can't believe I'm saying it, to be honest.'' The 32-year-old Irishman marks his golf ball with a green shamrock. This had nothing to do with luck. With stout nerves and a soft touch around the greens, Lowry gave a sellout crowd what they wanted to see. He endured the worst weather of the week, held up under Sunday pressure and expectations of fans who cheered his every step, and won the British Open by six shots. All he could think about was that walk up the final hole, and it was everything he imagined. Even as the rain stopped, the tears began flowing. ''I can't believe this is me standing here,'' Lowry said has he cradled the silver claret jug. ''I can't believe this is mine.'' Lowry closed with a 1-over 72, the first time since 1996 the Open champion was over par in the final round, and it was no less impressive. More difficult than the rain was wind strong enough to break an umbrella. Lowry made four bogeys in the toughest stretch of Royal Portrush without losing ground. No one from the last 12 groups broke par. No one got closer than three shots of Lowry all day. ''It was Shane's time, Shane's tournament,'' said Tommy Fleetwood, who closed with a 74 to finish runner-up for the second time in a major. Thousands of fans who filled these links off the North Atlantic began to celebrate when Lowry rolled in an 8-foot birdie putt on the 15th hole to stretch his lead to six with three holes to play. His smile got wider with every hole coming in. The cheers got louder. When his approach to the 18th was just on the fringe, he stretched out his arms and hugged caddie Bo Martin, whom Lowry had leaned on with brutal honesty. ''He was great at keeping me in the moment,'' Lowry said. ''I kept telling him how nervous I was, how scared I was, how much I didn't want to mess it up. All I could think about was walking down 18 with a four- or five-shot lead, and lucky I got to do that.'' The loudest roar of a raucous week was for a tap-in par that made Lowry a major champion. ''He's done brilliantly,'' Lee Westwood said after grinding out a 73 to tie for fourth. ''All the chasers would have wanted tough conditions and he's clearly played brilliantly to be on the score he has, under the pressure he's under.'' Fleetwood, the only player who kept Lowry in range, had chances early to put more pressure on Lowry. He missed a 10-foot birdie putt on the opening hole when Lowry still had work left for bogey. Fleetwood missed a 5-foot par putt on the third and his hopes ended from a bunker and the rough that led to double bogey on the 14th. ''I never really got close enough, and Shane played great,'' Fleetwood said. Tony Finau shot 71 to finish alone in third, though he was never closer than seven shots. Brooks Koepka, going for his fourth major in the last seven, began the final round seven shots behind and opened with four straight bogeys. He shot 74 and tied for fourth. Royal Portrush last hosted the British Open in 1951, the only time it had been outside Scotland and England. It pinned hopes at the start of the week on Rory McIlroy, who missed the cut by one shot. It celebrated Darren Clarke hitting the first tee shot Thursday. The other Ulsterman, Portrush native Graeme McDowell, basked in the loudest cheers he has heard this side of the Ryder Cup when he walked up the 18th green on Sunday. And then along came Lowry, who teamed with McIlroy to bring Irish golf a European Amateur title in 2007, and who won the Irish Open as an amateur 10 years ago. He joins Padraig Harrington as Irishmen to win majors, while McIlroy, McDowell, Clarke and Fred Daly are major champions from Northern Ireland. ''Everyone knows we're all one country when it comes to golf,'' Lowry said. It was one big group hug when it ended, starting with his wife and daughter, and his parents. Harrington and McDowell were among those waiting behind the 18th green to share in the celebration, along with Koepka and his caddie, Ricky Elliott, once a promising amateur who grew up at Royal Portrush. ''I didn't feel great out there. It was probably the most uncomfortable I've ever felt on a golf course,'' Lowry said. ''You're out there trying to win an Open in your home country, and it's just incredibly difficult.'' It showed early when Lowry pulled his tee shot into the rough, hit into a deep bunker well short of the green and had to make an 8-foot putt just to escape with bogey. The wind was picking up and it was relentless for so much of the day. Lowry made his move on the more forgiving holes early with three birdies in a four-hole stretch through the par-5 seventh that boosted his lead to six. And then he held on. J.B. Holmes, who shared the 36-hole lead with Lowry until falling back Saturday, really went the wrong direction. He hit his first tee shot out-of-bounds. And it only got worse. He made one birdie and shot 87. Lowry finished at 15-under 269 and earned $1.935 million. He shared his greatest moment with his family who paved the way, the players who inspired and encouraged him through the lows. And after he was introduced as ''champion golfer of the year,'' he shared it with thousands of people he didn't even know, all of them crammed along the hillocks and swales, along the edge of the ocean, and who sat in the horseshoe-shaped grandstands on the 18th under umbrellas waiting for the Irishman to arrive. Holding up the claret jug, Lowry said to them, ''This one's for you.'' --- More AP golf: https://apnews.com/apf-Golf and https://twitter.com/AP-Sports


The New England Patriots wrapped up their mandatory minicamp on Thursday, and had a chance to observe all the new additions to the team. Some of the lesser-known players made a name for themselves, while some of the veterans coming in had a rough three days. Fortunately for New England, their 41-year-old quarterback was in attendance and he was looking as sharp as ever. Here are five takeaways from the Patriots' minicamp practices. 1. Tom Brady looked as sharp as ever With season No. 20 right around the corner, Brady is in shape and throwing the football at a velocity that everyone's accustomed to. He will be 42 years old when the regular season begins, and he looks more youthful than he did 10 years ago. "Treat my first like my last, and my last like my first!" pic.twitter.com/q4KUz24QtA - Tom Brady (@TomBrady) June 4, 2019 As long as he's leading the pack - the Patriots are going to be okay. Tom Brady was 47 of 64 in competitive team drills in minicamp, including 7-on-7s and 11-on-11s. He was 21/30 targeting WRs, 10/16 targeting TEs and 16/18 targeting backs. - Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) June 6, 2019 2. Maurice Harris is making his case for a roster spot Maurice Harris is a 6-foot-3, 200 pound receiver that spent his three NFL seasons with the Washington Redskins. He's recorded 40 receptions, 432 yards and one touchdown in his career so far. He took a bulk of the top-team reps along with Julian Edelman and Philip Dorsett, and is becoming a name to look out for. Although he is a taller receiver, he told reporters on Wednesday that he wouldn't mind working in the slot. "I did it in the past. I've done it in college also so I feel comfortable," Harris said. "A lot of people don't think taller receivers are supposed to be in the slot but I feel comfortable all over the field so wherever they want to put me I'll try to go and do it." There are many question marks that surround Josh Gordon and Demaryius Thomas - so Harris has a realistic shot at making the 53 man roster. 3. Matt LaCosse will likely be the starting tight end in Week One With the retirement of Rob Gronkowski, the Patriots have had plenty of uncertainty around the tight end position. They made a few moves this offseason that brought in Matt LaCosse, Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Ben Watson. But, Seferian-Jenkins is taking some time off to deal with personal issues, and Watson will be suspended for the first four games. Stephen Anderson, Ryan Izzo and Andrew Beck add some depth to the position, but none of them have much NFL experience. LaCosse has played three seasons in the league and most recently tallied up 24 receptions, 250 yards and a touchdown for the Denver Broncos. Anderson was impressed with LaCosse throughout the minicamp and discussed this with reporters after Thursday's session. "He's a big guy but he can move really well. That's one of the things I was surprised with when I saw him," Anderson said. "He's a jack of all trades. He can block. He can go out there and catch - go up and get it. I think he will be a great piece." 4. Sony Michel didn't practice because of knee injuries One big concern for Sony Michel coming out of college was his health, and it affected him in the offseason last year. Fortunately, he had enough talent to pick up in the beginning of the season, and have one of the best years that a rookie running back has had for the Patriots. In his absence throughout the minicamp, Damien Harris was able to pick up some very important reps and integrate himself into the offense. New England has a loaded backfield heading into this season, and the third-round draft pick Harris should play some key minutes in 2019. Harris told reporters after minicamp was over on Thursday that he wants to become a better pass-catcher, and be the best asset as possible for the team. "You can work on anything at this point," Harris said. "That's our objective - to get better at all phases of game. I know that's my objective, to be the best player I can be. Whether that's in the run game or the pass game, special teams, whatever I'm asked to do I want to come out here and do it at a high level." 5. Jamie Collins could revive his career in New England The Patriots made a very unexpected move this offseason when they brought Jamie Collins back into the mix. They traded him in the middle of the 2016 season to the Cleveland Browns, and it seemed as if that bridge was burnt. But, Bill Belichick made the move to bring him back this offseason, and it's proving to be beneficial. New England signed Collins to a one-year deal that could be worth up to $5 million - but it only had $250,000 in guaranteed money . That being said, he has proved himself so far in this his little time on the field this offseason. With Kyle Van Noy out of service, Collins has stepped up and became a key linebacker in minicamp. 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 Collins is a long and athletic linebacker that is excellent in coverage. He will be alongside Van Noy, Dont'a Hightower and Ja'Whaun Bentley - who were excellent for New England last season. The Patriots are loaded at linebacker right now, and Collins is the perfect addition to cover pass-catching running backs and slot receivers. MORE: Warriors injury report: The latest on Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant Giants' Daniel Jones quickly destroying critical narratives 5 Trade Options for Yankees After Missing on Dallas Keuchel Report: New Orleans likely to trade Anthony Davis to Celtics 5 takeaways from Pats' minicamp


Max Verstappen believes Formula 1 rival Lewis Hamilton's late charge to victory in the Hungarian Grand Prix showed "how much margin" Hamilton's Mercedes team has. for the whole race. And while he fought off Hamilton's attacks mid-race while they were running on the same tyre, he was powerless to prevent the Briton from going through once Hamilton had pitted to equip a fresh set of mediums and methodically erased the gap to Verstappen before the end. Read Also: Mercedes had ruled out two-stop strategy before race Wolff: Hamilton's Hungary drive was "another dimension" Red Bull has often excelled in race trim in 2019, but when asked whether his team had been caught out by the lack of representative running on Friday, Verstappen suggested the edge Mercedes had on Sunday was simply down to it having more up its sleeve. "I think you can see how much margin they still have when they really need to push," Verstappen said. "I think Lewis today was on fire as well, but then you see, once he really has to go for it, you can see that that car is still the dominant car. It's as simple as that. Whereas in some races it's maybe not as necessary [to run at full capacity]. "Of course they had their issues in Austria with overheating so then you can't push. In Hockenheim it was tricky conditions as well, so can't really drive to the limit of the car. But here today I think he had to go for it, flat out, because I was also pushing flat out, and you can see what they are capable of as a team." While he'd led most of the race, Verstappen said being passed by Hamilton late on was not a big blow, as he was aware "we were just not fast enough". "Of course at one point I started to run out of tyres, trying to keep up with Lewis' pace on those medium tyres, trying to keep it [the delta] within a second - it's almost impossible. "So I ran out of tyres, and of course you can see it coming, so for me it was not a big disappointment once he passed me, because it's just a normal thing to happen. "But anyway you know, we have to be realistic - he was just clearly faster today. Always I think I was struggling a little bit more for grip than him, he could keep the pressure on, and of course when you are in second you can gamble to do a two-stop. "For me it was all about always trying to cover him to stay ahead, but with a two-stop, worst-case scenario you stay second, and best-case you overtake me. " Additional reporting by Stuart Codling


Jeffrey Epstein's lawyer said his client is willing to pay up to $100 million to remain out of prison pending trial. His lawyer told a judge during a bail hearing Monday that Epstein was "ready to sign" for bail no matter the cost. Last week, Epstein's lawyers proposed a bail package that would let the multimillionaire await trial while under house arrest at his Manhattan home. The judge said he plans on deciding whether or not to let him go on Thursday. Epstein was arrested earlier this month and charged with sex trafficking of minors, as well as conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors. Federal prosecutors, as well as two of Epstein's accusers, urged the judge to deny him bail. Prosecutors argued that due to Epstein's wealth and influence, he might try to flee the country or tamper with the investigation if he's out on bail. Last week, Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta resigned amid controversy over a plea deal he'd struck with Epstein more than a decade ago when he was serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida.


The Rays are expected to pursue multiple bullpen upgrades on this year's trade market, Juan Toribio of MLB.com reports in his latest inbox column. Toribio lists some speculative targets, including Shane Greene , Ken Giles and Kirby Yates . It's also possible, Toribio notes, that Tampa Bay will look to add a right-handed bat to its bench mix. Rays relievers entered play Wednesday ranked third in the Majors in ERA (3.60) and FIP (3.94), and they rank 11th in xFIP (4.36). They're also in the bottom five of MLB in terms of K/9, though, and they've benefited from the game's lowest HR/9 mark (0.98) and second-lowest homer-to-flyball ratio (11.5 percent). The Rays have gotten strong results from lefty Jalen Beeks while working as a bulk reliever behind the Rays' frequently utilized openers, which has somewhat skewed those league-wide rankings. Late-inning relievers Jose Alvarado , Diego Castillo and Emilio Pagan have all pitched well, but the Tampa Bay bullpen has been somewhat top-heavy toward the end of the game. They've been all the more thin with Alvarado away due to family reasons and Castillo on the IL due to a shoulder issue. Rostering a deep bullpen is of particular importance for the Rays, given their nontraditional approach to constructing a pitching staff. At the moment, they're only deploying three traditional starters in Charlie Morton , Yonny Chirinos and struggling reigning Cy Young winner Blake Snell . Tyler Glasnow would give them another option in that regard once healthy, but he recently suffered a setback in his recovery from a forearm injury and will be shut down for another three weeks. That atypical pitching formation leads the Rays to utilize multiple "bullpen" games per week, with Ryne Stanek serving as the most frequent opener and Beeks operating as the leading bulk reliever. As for the potential addition of a right-handed bat, the Rays have Yandy Diaz , Christian Arroyo , Matt Duffy and Daniel Robertson all on the injured list, with Robertson set to miss up to six weeks following knee surgery and Duffy sidelined indefinitely. They recently turned to 25-year-old Mike Brosseau for his MLB debut as a righty bench bat, with backup catcher Travis d'Arnaud and light-hitting outfielder Guillermo Heredia rounding out an all-right-handed, three-man bench that can't be reasonably expected to provide much offense.


Well, that was a short stay atop the NBC Sports NASCAR Power Rankings for Martin Truex Jr. Truex was No. 1 last week but plummets to a tie for eighth this week. Pocono winner Kyle Busch is back atop this week's rankings   by unanimous vote   followed by Chase Elliott and Brad Keselowski , who was not ranked last week. Dropping out of this week's rankings are Kevin Harvick , Jimmie Johnson and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Here's how this week's Power Rankings shape up: 1. Kyle Busch (40 points): Back where he belongs after his fourth win of the season. Last week: tied for 2nd . 2. Chase Elliott (35 points): On the best run of his Cup career with five consecutive top-five finishes. The No. 9 team has established championship-level consistency. Last week: tied for 2nd . 3. Brad Keselowski (29 points): Has a win and a runner-up within the past three points races. Only car to finish in the top five of every stage at Pocono. Last week: Not ranked. 4. Joey Logano (27 points): Six top 10s in the past seven races. May not be long before this team wins again. More wins would certainly help but can't fault the No. 22 team's title defense. Last week: 4th . (tie) 5. Clint Bowyer (15 points): Turns 40 as he matures into Stewart-Haas' most consistently good finisher. Has seven top 10s in the last nine points races. He also returns to a track this weekend where he won last year. Last week: Not ranked. (tie) 5. Erik Jones (15 points): Three top 10s in the past four points races, including a third at Pocono. Is working hard to keep his ride at JGR. A win or two could cement the deal. Last week: Not ranked. 7. William Byron (11 points): Consecutive pole positions are the most impressive feat of his young Cup career. Also has three top 10s in the last four points races. Last week: tied for 9th . (tie) 8. Martin Truex Jr. (7 points): Not his fault the engine didn't last at Pocono. Just like last year, it's been top five or bust (sometimes literally). Last week: 1st . (tie) 8. Chris Buescher (7 points): Best three-race stretch of his JTG Daugherty Racing career. Last week: 7th . 10. Denny Hamlin (5 points): Nothing bad happened to him at Pocono and the result was a sixth-place finish, his best finish in the last five points races. Last week: Not ranked. Others receiving votes: Daniel Suarez (4 points), Tyler Reddick (4 points), Alex Bowman (3 points), Cole Custer (3 points), Kurt Busch (1 point).


A Peter Pan bus driver was arrested over the weekend after she allegedly locked a passenger inside the luggage compartment as the vehicle was traveling to Boston. Following the incident on Sunday afternoon, bus driver Wendy Helena Alberty, 49, was taken into custody by Connecticut State Police, according to a statement on their Facebook page . Connecticut authorities said they were first notified of the situation after receiving a 911 call placed by the trapped female passenger at approximately 4 p.m. "On 8/4 at approx. 4:00pm, Troop C was notified via 911 of a female passenger who stated she was in the luggage compartment of a Peter Pan bus," a spokesperson for Connecticut State Police said. "Dispatchers were able to ping her cell phone, updating troopers of the bus location." Once they had successfully determined its location, officials pulled over the bus on Interstate 84 in the town of Union, Connecticut, just a few miles away from the Massachusetts border. "Troopers were able to stop the bus on I-84 E/B in Union, check the luggage compartments and found the female passenger, not injured," the Connecticut State Police spokesperson wrote. "After an investigation, the bus driver was taken into custody." • Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter. Caroline Van Allen, another passenger who had been riding on the bus from New York to Massachusetts, told CBS Boston that it was shocking to witness the female come out from the luggage compartment below. "All of a sudden my brain didn't know how to react, there was a person on the ground," she recalled to the outlet. "Did I hallucinate? Did she get off the bus? When did she get off the bus? We've all been sitting here." Van Allen also claimed that the woman's desperate attempts to get help could be heard by some of the passengers sitting in the front of the coach bus. "She was locked in there and had called 911," Van Allen said. "Not only that, people in the front could hear banging for help." When police eventually pulled over the bus, Alberty was reportedly not driving, as she drove the first leg of the four-hour trip but switched after stopping in Hartford, according to CBS Boston. The woman locked underneath claimed that Alberty purposely trapped her inside the luggage compartment as she was attempting to retrieve items from her bag, Fox 61 reports. Alberty was later arrested on first degree charges of unlawful restraint, reckless endangerment and breach of peace, and held on a $2,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on August 21. An attorney to speak on Alberty's behalf could not be immediately located by PEOPLE. The bus, meanwhile, continued on its journey to Boston, where it arrived a few hours late, according to the outlet. In a statement to Fox 61, Peter Pan Bus Lines said they were "deeply concerned and are treating this as our #1 priority," before adding that Alberty, who worked for the company since 2012, has been placed on an investigative suspension. "The Operator in question is currently on investigative suspension as we continue to investigate all aspects of this incident as well as cooperate with Connecticut State Police," a company spokesperson said. "This Operator… has been an exemplary employee for the company. Over her tenure, she has received many customer commendations on her safe driving and customer service," the spokesperson continued. "In our companies 86 year history we have never had an incident such as this, the safety of our passengers and employees is always our number one priority," they finished. A representative for Peter Pan Bus Lines did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.


Real Madrid have reignited their interest in wantaway Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar, as details have begun to emerge about his issues with sporting director Leonardo. Neymar failed to return to the club for the beginning of pre-season training, prompting Leonardo to state that he is free to leave the club if they receive a suitable offer. Barcelona are thought to be his preferred destination but, given the complications around such a deal, Sport claim that long-term admirers Real have now re-entered the race for his signature. Having failed to sign Neymar twice since 2011, Real president Florentino Perez is desperate to force through a move this time around. He knows full well that Neymar would prefer Barcelona, but he is also aware that PSG would much prefer to sell to Real, given their poor relationship with Barcelona. He plans to sit back and hope that negotiations between Barcelona and PSG collapse, which will allow him to swoop in and conclude a deal. However, Barcelona hope the Brazilian rejects Real regardless. PSG are unlikely to make any decision on Neymar's future until they have spoken with the player himself. According to L'Equipe , they will meet on Monday to discuss his recent behaviour and defiance of Leonardo. Paris United state that Neymar's attitude has come about as a result of Leonardo's insistence that he will not be given special treatment anymore. Former director Antero Henrique had agreed to give Neymar extra time off, but Leonardo insisted that he must return with the rest of the team. This did not sit well with Neymar, who consciously decided to go against his club's orders and remain on holiday. Assuming Neymar is worth more than Griezmann, which player is better value for money? 樂 pic.twitter.com/gKhN63w3BU   90min (@90min_Football) July 9, 2019 Once they meet, Neymar will discuss his potential departure from Paris, in the hope of convincing the club to do business with Barcelona. Mundo Deportivo add that the Blaugrana are not prepared to meet PSG's €222m asking price, and will instead pursue a player-plus-cash deal including at least one of Ivan Rakitic , Samuel Umtiti or perhaps even Ousmane Dembele . Such a complicated deal will have plenty of opportunities to go wrong but, even if all goes according to plan, the offer must please PSG owner Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who will overrule president Nasser Al-Khelafi and make a final decision if he is not satisfied.


When Nate Orchard was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the second round of the 2015 NFL draft, it was with the hope that he would develop into a star pass rusher worthy of the high praise heaped upon him by draft analysts, including Mike Mayock, who is now the general manager for the Oakland Raiders. "This is another one of my favorite players in this draft," Mayock said back in 2015. "He doesn't get enough respect. I think the 3-4 (base defense) teams like him more than the 4-3 teams. He's a better player than an athlete. If you ask the linemen in the Pac-12 who they thought was the toughest guy to block, it was Nate Orchard." But fate was not kind to the former Utah standout. After coming out strong in his rookie season, starting 11 of 15 games he played with the Browns in 2015, his 2016 season was cut short by a high ankle sprain. He was never able to regain his starting spot in 2017 thanks to new talent being drafted that same year. Orchard was cut by Cleveland shortly before the 2018 season, and since then he's bounced around teams looking for a home. He's spent time with the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs as a reserve player, and he later signed with the Seattle Seahawks, only to be released when new talent once again took his place on the roster. "Places I've been, it's always come down to a numbers situation; but you can't let those situations and things like that deter you from what you do," Orchard said on Tuesday. "My confidence is high. I'm grateful each day for the opportunities - Buffalo, K.C., Cleveland, here. To be in this league is a huge opportunity." Orchard admits he asks himself all the time why things haven't worked out for him. Now with the Dolphins, who are in serious need of bodies on the defensive line, Orchard is hoping to finally revitalize his career, and he's trying not to let his past bad luck weigh him down. "It's the nature of the business," he said. "The NFL, it's a tough league and everywhere I've been, it's a business decision. But at the end of the day, the ego is great. My confidence is still sky high. I've got a great support system, my wife and kids and family. They keep me going. At the end of the day, you've got to be confident in what you do and don't ever let anybody drag you down." That's precisely the attitude that head coach Brian Flores is looking for in his players, and Orchard's willingness to do whatever it takes is particularly helpful considering Flores wants to implement a hybrid scheme that will have players all over the field. "That's a curious question," Flores said when asked where Orchard would line up. "Linebacker, defensive end, I think we'll try to put him in positions to help our team. That may be some linebacker, that may be some D-end. If we feel like he can cover, he'll cover. If he can throw the football, then maybe we'll do something there too." Versatility will be crucial, but the main aspect that Flores no doubt brought with him from New England, which bodes well for Orchard, is a penchant for putting players in the best position to succeed. "And that's what it is," Orchard said. "They put guys in position here to be successful. Blitzes (are) coming from every angle, you don't know who's coming, what's going on. (The) coaches do a great job. (Defensive Coordinator) Coach (Patrick) Graham is doing a great job of disguising that." If all goes well for the former second-round pick, he'll be able to recapture his former glory with the Dolphins. At only 26 years old, he's still got a lot of football left in him. MORE: Here are the 27 'Jeopardy!' clues James Holzhauer has gotten wrong New Packers OLB coach raves about rookie Rashan Gary NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players 49ers LB roles change with new defensive front Things Don't Sound Good Between James Harden, Chris Paul, and the Rockets


Business is once again booming for Snap Inc., and the stock's more than 180% surge since a December low may uncover a path to regain the social dominance it once had among teenagers. From a growth in users to augmented reality driving engagement, Pivotal Research Group's Michael Levine says there are "increasing signs of momentum in the business on multiple fronts." The equity research firm upgraded Snap to buy from hold on Thursday, and raised its price target to $17.25 a share from $13.25. Still "there is a healthy amount of remaining skepticism about the business among investors," Levine admits, but "a turn in usage and revenues could translate into a meaningful re-rating higher." Snap shares rose more than 9% intraday, touching the highest since last July. Playing to Its Core While other platforms like Facebook Inc. have spent the year haggling with regulators and privacy hawks, Snap has been quietly doubling down on the fun, teen-focused features that helped build its audience to begin with. At its first developer conference in April, Snap rolled out a games platform and new augmented reality features that let users add graphics to their hands, feet or bodies. Snapchat still has popular face-distorting lenses, too, and continues to come up with bizarre ideas. One of the newer, more widely-discussed options: A gender-swap lens that makes men look like women, and women look like men. "The latest launch of lenses is among some of the most impressive product innovation we have seen in some time from the company," according to Levine. "This in our opinion constitutes real innovation in augmented reality," he said. Snap's increasing operational efficiency -- coupled with a more than 30% growth in sales -- is helping to narrow Ebitda losses as management hopes to break even by year-end, says Jitendra Waral, a Bloomberg Intelligence technology analyst, in an early June note.


The mother of 1-year-old twins who died in a hot car has issued a statement supporting her husband, who is charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in their deaths. "Though I am hurting more than I ever imagined possible, I still love my husband," Marissa Rodriguez said Sunday night. "He is a good person and great father and I know he would've never done anything to hurt our children intentionally. I will never get over this loss and I know he will never forgive himself for this mistake." Juan Rodriguez, 39, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, was released on $100,000 bail Saturday. The New York City father is inconsolable and devastated, his attorney, Joey Jackson, said. Luna and Phoenix Rodriguez were left strapped in their car seats for eight hours on Friday while Rodriguez went to work as a counselor at a Veterans Affairs hospital, authorities said. Rodriguez called 911, but the babies were pronounced dead at the scene. The distraught father told police he thought he had dropped them off at day care. "I blanked out. My babies are dead. I killed my babies." He had dropped his 4-year-old son at day care, but not the twin babies. He also has two older children, ages 16 and 12. Rodriguez, a National Guard member who served in Iraq, sobbed uncontrollably during his arraignment Saturday evening. He was described as a doting father by friends and relatives. As he left his court appearance, he was greeted with hugs and cheers from family and friends. "This was a horrific accident, and I need him by my side to go through this together," his wife said in her statement. "Luna and Phoenix will always live in our hearts and memories, and we are working hard to come to terms with what has happened. We need to grieve, be strong, and be present for our other children."


Here's what you need to know about what's happening in Denver. Denver vies to host men's World Cup in 2026 City and state leaders are laying out plans to be one of 10 cities selected for the games. Read the full story on 9NEWS . New Uber app features Denver transit routes Uber has partnered with the Regional Transportation District to enable Denver riders to be the first worldwide to see and consider transit routes in the Uber app. Read the full story on 9NEWS . Denver project stacks apartments like Legos Sections of the building are constructed off-site, then pieced together in a matter of weeks. Read the full story on 9NEWS . Former mayoral candidate Lisa Calderón to join coucilwoman's staff Lisa Calderón, long a presence in city politics, will take a job as the chief of staff for Councilwoman-elect Candi CdeBaca. Read the full story on Denver Post . Problems mount at four Advenir apartment complexes Issues are mounting at the apartment complexes, which are all owned by the same company. Read the full story on KDVR . This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle , then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Transaction: #LARams have waived OT Justice Powers. - Myles Simmons (@MylesASimmons) May 21, 2019 The Los Angeles Rams opened up a roster spot on Tuesday, waiving undrafted free agent Justice Powers. He signed with the Rams following the 2019 NFL draft as one of 22 UDFA signings by Los Angeles. Powers played right tackle for UAB, earning first-team All-Conference USA honors last season. He started 13 games in 2018 and had 26 in his collegiate career, all of which came since the start of 2017. At 6-foot-3, 295 pounds, his position was yet to be determined in the NFL. He doesn't necessarily have the size to remain at tackle in the NFL, but it was unknown if he could hold up strength-wise inside at guard. The Rams did not announce a corresponding roster move to take Powers' place, so their roster currently sits at 89 players. MORE: 7 reasons the Warriors are winning another title no matter who they play in the Finals Magic Johnson confirms rumor that Lakers want to sign Kyrie Irving 5 reasons Saints should be favorites to sign Gerald McCoy NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Injury to Reuben Foster could help Chiefs, Redskins strike a deal


Have you ever found yourself wondering: What's a WOD? Or, overheard someone talking about Grace, Angie, and Helen-only to discover that they're workouts…not women? Welp, if so, chances are you've encountered a CrossFit junkie. It's not that surprising seeing as the global fitness community numbers in the millions and is only growing. Even if you've been hiding under a yoga mat for the last 20 years, you have probably at least heard about CrossFit. Chances are you're already aware of the fact that it's known for intense workouts, a close-knit community, and lots and lots of abs. Still, so much about CrossFit remains a mystery-especially for folks who have never stepped a Nano-clad foot into a box (CrossFit speak for gym). But CrossFit isn't Vegas-as in, what happens in the box doesn't have to stay there. Whether you want to get stronger, lose weight, are seduced by the promise of a ride or die #fitfam, or are just vaguely intrigued, this CrossFit crib sheet will clue you in on the fitness phenomenon. So, what is CrossFit…you know, other than super intense? First things first: "The basic definition of CrossFit is constantly varied, functional movements, executed at a high intensity," says CrossFit Games competitor Brooke Ence, CF-L2 and founder of Naked Training. In basic terms, that means that CrossFit focuses on movements that best mimic everyday happenings such as sitting to the toilet, walking up stairs, chasing your dog in the park, putting cereal away in the top cabinet. Why is this a good thing? The exercises make their everyday counterpart easier now and as you continue to age. Most of the exercises you do in a CrossFit class are borrowed from other sports like Olympic Weightlifting, Powerlifting, gymnastics, track, and rowing. When Ence says "constantly varied" she means the fact that you'll (very) rarely do the same CrossFit workout twice because there are so many movements. That may sound more overwhelming than walking into Forever 21 during a sale, but it's not. There are nine fundamental movements, which you'll learn your first few classes- and all others movements are iterations of these. Finally, high intensity means that the workouts are executed at a (drum roll please)... max level of output. "The intensity is what makes all of the good stuff happen," explains CrossFit Games Commentator, Tanya Wagner, CF-L2, of CrossFit Apex in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. (More on that in a sec). Video: What Exactly Is CrossFit and Is It Actually Good for You (Health.com) Okay, what happens in a CrossFit workout? Most classes are half as long as an extended episode of The Bachelor (AKA an hour), and they are typically split into three sections: a warm-up, strength or skill, and a MetCon (which stands for metabolic conditioning). "The warm-up is intended to get your core body temperature up, prime your muscles for movements, and joint mobilization" says Wagner. These joint mobilization moves are different than static stretching, because they entail taking your joints through their full range of motion and are more active than static stretching. Think moves like windmills, jumping squats, the reach through, and hip hinges. "The warm-up is designed to target the parts of the body that will be the most stressed during the workout," she explains. From here, the class flow is slightly less predictable, depending on what WOD (or workout of the day) you're doing. "If the programming for that day consists of a strength, the class will lift weights for 10 to 20 (sometimes more) minutes, working up to a prescribed weight then doing the programmed set and rep count," explains Tony Carvajal, CF-L1, certified CrossFit trainer with RSP Nutrition. This might look like a heavy, one-rep max deadlift, 3 sets of 5 reps of power snatches performed at 70 to 75 percent of one rep max, or 5 sets of 3 reps front squat AHAP (as heavy as possible). "The goal of this portion is to break down your muscle fibers, so that your muscles repair and grow back even stronger," he explains. But, if the MetCon has a high skill gymnastics movement in it, like a rope climb, you'll spend some time working on progressions of that movement. "This training is intended to build core strength, coordination, flexibility, increase lean muscle mass, and safely progress towards higher skill movement," explains Carvajal. Next up: The metabolic conditioning (MetCon) portion of class. "This is the ethos of CrossFit; it's where the intensity is," explains Wagner. Every day the workout is different (i.e. varied) but most workouts are typically between five and 15 minutes long-and some are as short as three minutes. In fact, ask any CrossFitter for the hardest workout they've ever done, and chances are they'll say "Fran," which entails 21 thrusters, 21 pull-ups, 15 reps of each movement, and then 9 reps. CrossFit Games athletes complete this workout is under two minutes! A slightly longer workout might be a 15 Minutes AMRAP (as many reps as possible), which consists of doing 19 wallballs and 19 calories on the rower over and over until time runs out. "The clock is a factor during the MetCon because it motivates people to keep moving without taking too long of a rest," says Wagner. After, if there's still time left in class, some CrossFit boxes will run an official, coach-led cool down, while other boxes will have a suggested cool down written up on the board. "This may consist of short, low intensity rowing, foam rolling, or static or dynamic stretching," explains Mecayla Froerer, CPT with iFit. If this sounds like A LOT, don't worry, the coach (or coaches, depending on the class cap, some boxes will have more than one coach on the floor) will guide you through the whole thing. Is CrossFit good for losing weight? When it comes to weight loss, "CrossFit workouts are effective due to their total body, high intensity style," Froerer explains. ''These high intensity workouts keep your heart rate elevated while simultaneously building strength and endurance. This allows your body to burn a large number of calories in a short period of time." In fact, "you can actually burn more calories in 20 minutes with a CrossFit workout than you could on an elliptical for an hour," says Tessie Tracy, a CF L2 Coach and Health Coach based in Los Angeles, California. How many calories exactly? According to one study out of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse' women burned over 12 calories per minute during the MetCon. Again, the workout may take less than 15 minutes, so if that seems low, consider the following: "After a high-intensity workout, individuals will experience something called the excess post-exercise oxygen consumption effect (or EPOC)," says Froerer. Essentially, it is a period of time after your workout where you're consuming oxygen at a higher rate in order to bring your body back to rest. An increase in oxygen consumption requires energy, which means you continue to burn calories even after your workout is over." Plus, over time, "you'll be building lean muscle mass which boosts your metabolism," says Carvajal. "My biggest tip for using CrossFit to lose weight would be to go at least three times a week." Keep in mind, though, that if weight loss is your overall goal, consistency is queen. "My biggest tip for using CrossFit to lose weight would be to go at least three times a week," says Tracy. "I also recommend you track your progress, write down your workout scores/times, and use this information to increase intensity. Maintain this for six weeks and be amazed by the results you experience!" That said, how much weight you lose, and how quickly depends on a host of factors including nutrition, stress levels, genetics, and sleep quality. "CrossFit can help you burn a lot of calories, but if you truly want to lose weight you need to watch what you eat," explains registered dietitian Julie Upton R.D. CF-L1, co-founder of Appetite for Health. "CrossFit promotes a diet that is higher in protein and healthy fats and is lower in carbohydrates than the current typical American diet for overall health." And it's important to note that not all gains (or losses) can be measured in pounds. "The number on the scale is not as important as a person's body composition-or, how much of their body is made up of muscle vs fat," says Wagner. Muscle weighs more than fat, which means "you might have more lean muscle on our body and your clothes might be fitting looser, even if your weight isn't actually dropping," Tracy adds. "Whatever your goals, if it's your first time you should expect to push yourself, be ready to make some new friends, and have fun," says Froning. "Too often I see people make going to the gym an added stress when it should be a stress relief." Gallery: (16) Ways to get a flat stomach without diet or exercise (Good Housekeeping)


CINCINNATI (AP) Allan Cruz and Fatai Alashe scored Saturday to help expansion FC Cincinnati end a five-game losing streak in interim coach Yoann Damet's debut, a 2-1 victory over the Montreal Impact. Cruz broke FC Cincinnati's 528-minute scoreless drought when he opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Darren Mattocks sent in a cross from the left and Cruz converted off the underside of the crossbar. The scoreless stretch was the sixth longest in MLS history. Alashe made it 2-0 for FC Cincinnati (3-7-2) in the 62nd minute, tucking it home from the top of the 18-yard box to finish a counterattack. Orji Okwonkwo scored in the 75th minute for the Impact (6-5-2). The 29-year-old Damet was already the youngest assistant coach in MLS before assuming head coaching duties after the dismissal of Alan Koch on Tuesday.


One to go. The Carolina Panthers have locked in another member of their rookie class of 2019. According to a release on the official team website, second-round pick, offensive tackle Greg Little has agreed to terms . Little played his college ball at Ole Miss, where he started at left tackle. He projects to eventually be the long-term starter for the Panthers at the same position. Coach Ron Rivera admitted after the pick was made that Little has some work to do as a run blocker, but the real reason he's here is all about protecting franchise quarterback Cam Newton . Little has been one of the top pass protectors in college football the last couple of years, and he's done it against some top-notch competition, which bodes well for his future in the NFL. This leaves the team's first-round pick, former Florida State defensive end Brian Burns as the last unsigned rookie. MORE: Four potential Kawhi Leonard landing spots in free agency Suspended NASCAR driver still found a way to race this weekend Rams trading Tyler Higbee to Patriots would make sense for both teams Three Potential Trade Destinations for Chris Paul Heading into training camp: Lions' top 8 O-linemen appear locked in


The only thing missing from the Chicago Bears' offense last season was a running back who was capable of being a three-down contributor in both the running and passing game for coach Matt Nagy's innovative and high-octane system. Jordan Howard, for as good as he was during his first two years with the Bears, simply wasn't a fit. And despite being a dynamic offensive weapon, Tarik Cohen doesn't have the profile of a feature back. As a result, general manager Ryan Pace made fixing the running game his priority in the 2019 NFL draft and selected Iowa State's David Montgomery in the third round. The pick has been met with unanimous praise around the league, and the expectations for Montgomery in Nagy's offense are through the roof. They're so high, in fact, that he's been pegged as one of NFL.com's five most likely candidates to win Rookie of the Year in 2019 . 5) David Montgomery, RB, Chicago Bears: We're riding the Montgomery hype train with colleague/conductor Adam Rank. This former Cyclone breaks tackles with the best of 'em and has one of the league's better offensive lines in front of him. As long as Matt Nagy is willing to lean on him, he's going to do work. Assuming Montgomery stays healthy and ascends to the top of the depth chart in training camp, there's little reason to doubt this prediction. His college tape projects favorably to NFL success, and with the Bears expected to be in close games all year long, he's going to get his touches and the production will follow. And if the Bears win as much as we all think they will, he'll be a big reason why. It seems like a pretty good recipe for some end-of-year hardware for the rookie running back. View embedded content MORE: Zion Williamson still has options if he doesn't want to play for the Pelicans Report: Browns rookie RB L.J. Scott decides to quit NFL after just 2 days NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Cowboys News: Prescott's circle of trust questioned, Kris Richard RKGs Pro Football Focus names Raiders CB Isaiah Johnson as a steal of the 2019 draft


The future of Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar appears to have taken a fresh twist as it is made clearer that the Brazilian superstar will need to apologise to Barcelona and drop a lawsuit before his much talked about wish of rejoining his former club becomes a real possibility. After two disappointing and difficult seasons in Paris following his world record €222m transfer in the summer of 2017, Neymar has been the subject of increasing speculation this summer. Real Madrid are said to have 'definitively' ruled themselves out of chasing their once coveted target, but there is a general media consensus that the player wants to go back to Barcelona. So far, it has been difficult. Already thought to be financially stretched, the Camp Nou club has spent €120m on Antoine Griezmann, while their interest in Neymar has been somewhat passive. Last month, Barça vice president Jordi Cardoner publicly dampened the possibility of a return when he acknowledged that the acrimonious 2017 exit is still a sore spot. "It's correct that Neymar wants to return to Barcelona . But Barcelona aren't thinking about signing Neymar. This subject isn't up for discussion. There are many things that we didn't like about his departure, many things to resolve," Cardoner said at the time. But PSG appear increasingly resigned to losing a player who doesn't seem happy at the club, with coach Thomas Tuchel now admitting to French broadcaster RMC Sports that he has known of the 27-year-old's desire to leave Parc des Princes since before the Copa America. "I knew that he wanted to go before the Copa America, but it's a topic between the club and Neymar. It's all clear between us, now it's up to the club and Neymar. We work together, it's something between the club and him," the German coach explained. With a report from May suggesting that Neymar has a clause in his PSG contract that will allow him to leave for €170m in the summer of 2020, the latest from Mundo Deportivo (MD) hints that Barça would offer that this time around. And they would do so in the form of player exchanges, choosing those who would be tempting for PSG but not badly missed at Camp Nou. In that respect, French outlet L'Equipe has reported that PSG have already rejected one verbal offer from Barça of €40m plus Ivan Rakitic and PhilIppe Coutinho. But, fitting in with what Cardoner said in June, MD perhaps more importantly notes that Neymar repairing his relationship with Barça is crucial to any transfer. It is said that he must withdraw his lawsuit against the club filed after a disagreement over a renewal bonus on his last contract with the club, while he must also apologise and ask for forgiveness over the way he left. If he doesn't do those two things first, an actual transfer might be irrelevant. Perhaps if nothing more than to keep Barça on their toes through a mild threat, MD also claims Neymar is keeping his options open and would not rule out going somewhere else. The usual suspects are listed - Real Madrid , Juventus, Bayern Munich and Manchester United . But Real, as already mentioned, are no longer thought to be interested, while United are immediately ruled out by not being in the Champions League - although that fact is unlikely to prevent numerous baseless transfer regurgitations about Neymar in the English media.


"Seamus Golf 'Don't Ask' Flask Giveaway" OFFICIAL SWEEPSTAKES RULES NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS PROMOTION. A purchase will not improve chances of winning. CONSUMER DISCLOSURE You have not yet won. OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD AS OF THE DATE OF ENTRY By entering this Promotion, entrants accept and agree to be bound by these Official Rules. Any violation of these rules may, at Sponsor's discretion, result in disqualification. All decisions of the judges regarding this Promotion are final and binding in all respects. 1.PROMOTION PERIOD. Promotion begins 4:00 PM ET on Friday July 26th and ends at 4:00 PM on Sunday, July 28th when all entries must be received. 2.ELIGIBILITY. This Promotion is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia who are at least 18 years old as of the date of entry, except officers, directors, members, and employees of the Sponsor, the judging organization (if applicable), or any other party associated with the development or administration of this Promotion, and the immediate family (i.e., parents, children, siblings, spouse), and persons residing in the same household, as such individuals. This Promotion is void outside the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, and where prohibited. HOW TO ENTER. Enter your email address. All entries become the property of the Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Limit: One entry per person and one entry per e-mail address during the Promotion Period. All entrant information, including e-mail addresses, is subject to the respective Privacy Policy of the applicable Sponsor. WINNER SELECTION AND NOTIFICATION. Winner selection will be conducted by random drawing from all eligible entries on or about Sunday, July 28th, at 4:00 PM ET. Any potential winner will be notified by mail, email and/or telephone. If a potential winner: (i) cannot be contacted; (ii) does not respond within five (5) days from the date the Sponsor first tries to notify him/her; (iii) fails to return the Affidavit and Release as specified in Rule 9; (iv) refuses the prize;and/or (v) the prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, such potential winner forfeits all rights to win the Promotion or receive the prize, and an alternate potential winner may be selected. Upon contacting a potential winner and determining that he/she has met all eligibility requirements of the Promotion, including without limitation the execution of required waivers, publicity and liability releases and disclaimers, and, at Sponsor's discretion, successful completion of a background check, such individual will be declared the "winner" of the Promotion. PRIZE DESCRIPTION. There will be one (1) winner. The prize is one Seamus Golf 'Don't Ask' Flask. The approximate value is $65. 6.TAXES. All federal, state and/or local income and other taxes, if any, are the winner's sole responsibility. 7.ODDS OF WINNING. The odds of winning this Promotion depend on the number of eligible entries received. 8.NO PRIZE TRANSFER OR SUBSTITUTION. No prize or any portion thereof is transferable or redeemable for cash. No substitutions for prize except by Sponsor, in which case a prize of equal or greater value will be substituted. 9.CONSENT AND RELEASE. By entering the Promotion, each entrant releases and discharges the Sponsor, judging organization (if applicable), and any other party associated with the development or administration of this Promotion, their parent, subsidiary, and affiliated entities, and each of their respective officers, directors, members, shareholders, employees, independent contractors, agents, representatives, successors and assigns (collectively, "Sponsor Entities"), from any and all liability whatsoever in connection with this Promotion, including without limitation legal claims, costs, injuries, losses or damages, demands or actions of any kind (including without limitation personal injuries, death, damage to, loss or destruction or property, rights of publicity or privacy, defamation, or portrayal in a false light) (collectively, "Claims"). Except where prohibited: (i) entry into the Promotion constitutes the consent of the entrant, without further compensation, to use his/her name, likeness, biographical data, and contact information for editorial, advertising, marketing, publicity, and administrative purposes by the Sponsor and/or others authorized by the Sponsor; (ii) acceptance of a prize constitutes a release by any winner of the Sponsor Entities of any and all Claims in connection with the administration of this Promotion and the use, misuse, or possession of any prize; (iii) any potential winner may be required to sign an affidavit of eligibility (including social security number) and a liability/publicity release; and (iv) if prize involves travel or activities, any potential winner and travel companion (if applicable) may be required to execute releases of the Sponsor from any and all liability with respect to participation in such travel/activities and/or use of the prize. Fully-executed affidavits and releases must be received by Sponsor within five (5) days from the date that Sponsor first tries to notify the potential winner. Sponsor may conduct a background check to confirm any potential winner's eligibility and compliance with these rules. By entering, you agree to cooperate reasonably with any such background check. If the prize includes participation in any public event(s) or publicity, or if Sponsor Entities intend to publicize the winner in any way, and if a background check reveals that a potential winner has engaged in conduct that could damage the reputation or business of any Sponsor Entity, as determined by Sponsor in its discretion, the potential winner may be disqualified and the prize may be awarded to an alternate winner. If winner is deemed to be a minor under the jurisdiction of his/her residence, the prize will be awarded in the name of his/her parent or legal guardian who must execute the necessary affidavit and release and, if applicable, must accompany winner on the trip (no additional travel expenses will be awarded should a parent or legal guardian be required to accompany the winner on the trip). 10.DISCLAIMERS. (i) Sponsor not responsible for entries that are lost, late, misdirected, incorrect, garbled, or incompletely received, for any reason, including by reason of hardware, software, browser, or network failure, malfunction, congestion, or incompatibility at Sponsor's servers or elsewhere. In the event of a dispute, entries will be deemed submitted by the authorized account holder of the e-mail address submitted at the time of entry. "Authorized account holder" is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an e-mail address by an Internet Access Provider, online service provider, or other organization (e.g., business, educational institute) that is responsible for assigning e-mail addresses for the domain associated with the submitted e-mail address. (ii) Sponsor, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to disqualify any person tampering with the entry process or the operation of the web site or otherwise attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Promotion. Use of bots or other automated process to enter is prohibited and may result in disqualification at the sole discretion of Sponsor. (iii) Sponsor further reserves the right to cancel, terminate or modify the Promotion if it is not capable of completion as planned, including by reason of infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, force majeure or technical failures of any sort. (iv) Sponsor Entities are not responsible for errors in the administration or fulfillment of this Promotion, including without limitation mechanical, human, printing, distribution or production errors, and may cancel, terminate or modify this Promotion based upon such error at its sole discretion without liability. In no event will Sponsor be responsible for awarding more than the number of prizes specified in these rules. (v) In the event this Promotion is cancelled or terminated, pursuant to subparagraph (iii) or (iv), Sponsor, in its sole discretion, may elect to hold a random drawing from among all eligible entries received up to the date of discontinuance for any or all of the prizes offered herein. (vi) SPONSOR ENTITIES MAKE NO WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS OR GUARANTEES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN FACT OR IN LAW, AS REGARDS THIS PROMOTION OR THE MERCHANTABILITY, QUALITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE REGARDING ANY PRIZE OR ANY COMPONENT OF ANY PRIZE. (vii) CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT BY AN ENTRANT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE THE WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THIS PROMOTION MAY BE A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND/OR CIVIL LAWS, AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK REMEDIES AND DAMAGES (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ATTORNEYS' FEES) FROM ANY SUCH ENTRANT TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW, INCLUDING CRIMINAL PROSECUTION. (viii) The value(s) of the prize(s) set forth above represent Sponsor's good faith determination of the approximate retail value(s) thereof; the actual fair market value(s) as ultimately determined by Sponsor are final and binding and cannot be challenged or appealed. In the event the stated approximate retail value(s) of a prize is more than the actual fair market value of that prize, the difference will not be awarded in cash or otherwise. No substitution or compensation will be given for any portion of the prize that is not used. 11.APPLICABLE LAWS AND JURISDICTION. This Promotion is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. If any court of law, having the jurisdiction to decide on this matter, rules that any provision of these Official Rules is invalid or unenforceable, then that provision will be removed from the Official Rules without affecting the rest of the Terms. The remaining provisions of these Official Rules will continue to be valid and enforceable. Issues concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules shall be governed by the laws of the State of New York, without regard to any principles of conflict of laws. All disputes arising out of or connected with this Promotion will be resolved individually, and without resort to class action, exclusively by a state or federal court located in New York, New York. Should there be a conflict between the laws of the State of New York and any other laws, the conflict will be resolved in favor of the laws of the State of New York. To the extent permitted by applicable law, all judgments or awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket damages (excluding attorneys' fees) associated with participation in this Promotion and shall not include any indirect, punitive, incidental and/or consequential damages. 12.WINNER LIST. For a list containing the name(s) of the winner(s), send a self-addressed stamped envelope, within six (6) months of the Drawing Date, to: Winner List, "'Seamus Golf 'Don't Ask' Flask' Giveaway" OFFICIAL SWEEPSTAKES RULES" Golf Digest, Attn: Nicole Rae, 20th Floor, One World Trade Center, New York, NY, 10007. 13.SPONSORSHIP. This Promotion is sponsored by Golf Digest, One World Trade Center, New York, NY, 10007 (individually and collectively, the "Sponsor"). 180826-v2


Veteran Braves backstop Brian McCann hasn't yet decided on his future but feels great in the present, he tells David O'Brien of The Athletic ( subscription link ) as part of a lengthy and entertaining chat. The 35-year-old backstop would say only that "we'll see what happens" when pressed on his intentions for playing beyond the current campaign. It certainly seems like a tempting proposition for McCann, who says he "feel[s] amazing" after undergoing knee surgery last year. While he has had some ups and downs at the plate this season, McCann carries a solid .257/.328/.427 batting line over 198 plate appearances and has been an excellent value for the Braves at $2M. His ongoing knee health seems to bode well for the organization down the stretch. More on a few health situations from around the game … The White Sox announced Tuesday that they have activated catcher Welington Castillo . He ended up missing about a month with an oblique strain. It remains to be seen how the Chicago org will allocate playing time, but odds are James McCann will continue to receive the lion's share of the duties behind the dish. Castillo could conceivably be moved later this month, if only because teams will be looking to stash depth in advance of the single trade deadline, but he won't hold much appeal given his ugly .196/.289/.364 slash. The veteran backstop is also earning a hefty $7.25M this year and is owed a $500K buyout on a $8M club option for 2020. The White Sox may also just hang tight and see if their club can make a surprise run at a Wild Card slot. Pirates outfielder Gregory Polanco won't bounce back to the majors quite as quickly as had been hoped. As Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette writes , Polanco was pulled from a rehab contest with left shoulder tightness. For now, the club only intends to give him a brief rest without interrupting the rehab assignment. As Mackey notes, the timing is of some consequence to the Bucs. The club is in a tough spot as the trade deadline approaches, having slipped into the NL Central cellar. It's arguably positioned to sell a left-handed-hitting outfielder regardless of what else it does   highly paid pending free agent Corey Dickerson seems a particular candidate   but it'll be tough to pull the trigger on a deal if there's uncertainly regarding Polanco's availability. As expected, Yankees righties Luis Severino and Dellin Betances resumed throwing Monday, as MLB.com's Bryan Hoch reports . Indications are that all went well for both hurlers in limited sessions, designed only to begin reintroducing their strained lats to the rigors of the MLB mound. Severino told reporters that he'd be willing to work back in a relief capacity if that's the organization's preference. While that'd bring him aboard quicker, it probably isn't the optimal outcome for a club that has a need for quality rotation pieces and can probably afford to be patient.


The Bills haven't won a playoff game since 1995, but coach Sean McDermott wants fans to believe they're making progress toward changing that. McDermott wrote in a letter to season-ticket holders that he believes the team has taken a step forward from last year's 6-10 record. "I'm excited about the progress we have made this offseason as we worked to execute our plan of building a strong foundation," McDermott wrote. "This foundation combined with true Buffalo toughness and love for one another will be instrumental as we continue to chase our vision of bringing a championship to this city . We are committed to building a team that you can be proud of both on and off the field for many years to come." McDermott took the Bills to a surprise playoff appearance in his first season in 2017, but a disappointing step backward to 6-10 in 2018 cooled the optimism surrounding his team. Not many people are picking the Bills to get back to the playoffs this year, but McDermott knows Bills fans are looking for some reason to think the franchise is finally heading toward being competitive in January again.


We are just a few weeks away from EA Sports releasing their newest version of Madden. Ahead of the release, the developers at EA Sports have released their ratings for the entire 2019 rookie class . For the Raiders, they have two of the highest-rated rookies in the class in defensive end Clelin Ferrell and running back Josh Jacobs. Ferrell is the third highest-rated defensive end, behind only Nick Bosa (78) and Josh Allen (77). Jacobs is the highest-rated runner by a good margin. Both players are expected to be instant starters for the Raiders in Year 1. You can take a look at the ratings for the entire rookie class for the Raiders below: It's noteworthy that fifth-round pick Hunter Renfrow was rated ahead of first-round pick Johnathan Abram and second-round selection Trayvon Mullen. Renfrow is one of the highest-rated rookie receivers in the game and will likely start for the Raiders in the slot as a rookie. It will be fascinating to see how Renfrow's rating is impacted by his play early in the season as the game updates their ratings weekly. MORE: Jimmy Butler's decision to sign with the Miami Heat just got super awkward What the Heck is Going On With the Jimmy Butler Sign-and-Trade? NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players It looks like the Patriots won't be doing a Super Bowl champion visit to the White House Rob Gronkowski's retirement physique shows he's really done with football


Drew Lock attended the NFL draft in Nashville, Tennessee last month and he took a special friend with him: Missouri teammate Jack Lowary. Lowary wasn't one of Lock's wide receivers or tight ends. He was his backup quarterback with the Tigers from 2017-2018, appearing in just one game. Despite their starter-backup statuses, the two QBs hit it off during their time at Missouri. "After my freshman year, it was a rougher freshman year, Jack ended up transferring and I'm the QB," Lock said during a conference call with reporters on April 26. "I was bulking my chest out, walking around with the high hat and didn't give him the time of day when he first got here. It took us about a week to be almost best friends." The two quarterbacks formed a special bond together quickly, in part because they did everything together - literally. "We lived with each other for three years and went to every meeting together," Lock said. "We got to leave the house at the same time, always eat at the same place at the same time, took the same degree. He ended up being ideal for me. Helped me so much on the field and helped me so much in the film room. He's a super smart guy and actually ended up coaching for the university now." Lock decided to take Lowary with him to Nashville and he was selected by the Broncos in the second round of the draft. It was fitting that the QB who helped him get there was present when Lock was selected. "It couldn't have been a better guy for me to meet when I was there," Lock said. "He means so much to me and my development since my freshman year, and I feel like I needed to kind of repay him for that and bring him here and go through this experience with him. I think he had a pretty good experience." Lowary has retired from football and now serves as an assistant coach with the Tigers. MORE: The full story from the guy who got Danica Patrick a drink at the Bucks-Celtics game NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players 3 Raiders players who could have breakout seasons in 2019 Rumor: LeBron made a visit to Kawhi Leonard during Raptors-Sixers series Richard Sherman: 'The secondary wasn't the issue last year'


There's a space race happening right now. It's not between the United States and Russia, or any nations at all, for that matter, but it's definitely happening. It's a race between SpaceX and Boeing to be the first company to deliver a crew-capable spacecraft to NASA, and it's been filled with twists, turns, and delays since the very start. Now, a new preliminary planning schedule for NASA's "Commercial Crew" program hints that SpaceX might ultimately be the victor, but it's far from a sure thing. NASA hired Boeing to build the Starliner, and threw money at SpaceX to build the Crew Dragon. Both spacecraft will eventually take NASA astronauts into space from U.S. soil, which is a big deal for the space agency, but neither company has followed through on its promises yet. Related slideshow: Famous milestones in Space (Provided by Photo Services) Both programs have been slammed with delays and setbacks, and neither the Starliner nor Crew Dragon has carried a human off Earth at this point. SpaceX sent an empty Crew Dragon to the International Space Station, which is a meaningful milestone, but an explosion (sorry, "anomaly") threw its progress into question. It seemed to open the door for Boeing to take the lead and be the first to fulfill its pledge to NASA. However, if the dates issued in a new planning schedule hold true, SpaceX will be the first to carry NASA crew into space. As NASASpaceflight.com explains, the dates are far from being set in stone, and they're not even considered official target dates at this point. The dates in the report are based entirely on the available windows within which the space station could receive the spacecraft and when crew would be available to ride aboard them. Still, while the dates aren't even close to being set in stone, they show that NASA has some serious faith in SpaceX to correct whatever issue caused the explosion of its Crew Dragon during testing and get its program back on track swiftly. Perhaps even more than that, it shows that NASA doesn't think Boeing's Starliner will be ready to carry humans any time soon.


The Ravens will sign wide receiver Michael Floyd to a one-year deal, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (on Twitter ). Floyd, who was once a standout in the Cardinals' offense, spent last season with the Redskins. Floyd didn't see a whole lot of action with Washington, making just three starts and notching only ten catches for 100 yards. But, he has three 800-plus-yard receiving seasons on his resume dating back to his time in Arizona. Floyd's best season came in 2013 when he hauled in 65 grabs for 1,041 yards and five touchdowns. He following that up with a solid 47/841/6 showing in 2014 and averaged a career-high 17.9 yards per grab, a number that was topped only by Redskins star DeSean Jackson that season. Floyd joins a wide receiver group in flux: Jamison Crowder left to sign a multi-year deal with the Jets in free agency, Maurice Harris joined up with the Patriots, the club recently declined Josh Doctson 's fifth-year option for 2020. Floyd, meanwhile, will fight for playing time along with third-round pick Terry McLaurin and sixth-round pick Kelvin Harmon .


The Los Angeles Rams have gone mostly outside the box in the past few years, from hiring the youngest head coach in NFL history to almost exclusively using 11 personnel on offense. They also went unconventional with their most recent hire this offseason, bringing Zac Robinson aboard as an assistant quarterbacks coach. Robinson doesn't have any professional coaching experience and instead made a living as an analyst after his playing days as a quarterback were over. He was one of Pro Football Focus' lead quarterback analysts as recently as last year. Now a coach, Robinson has enjoyed the transition from the film room to the sidelines. "It's awesome," Robinson said, via J.B. Long of the Rams' official site . "I'm learning so much from all these guys. Playing a lot of catch-up, learning the offense, trying to get to a level of ownership. The culture of this place is pretty special; it's unlike any place I've ever been." As an assistant QBs coach, Robinson will obviously be working closely with Jared Goff. He's watched him from afar as an analyst, but seeing Goff up close and personal is a different viewpoint. Robinson loves what Goff has put on tape thus far and believes he still has plenty of room to grow. "I've always been such a fan of his game, dating back to college," Robinson said. "Seeing him grow in the NFL, he's obviously so talented. Seeing the way he works up close… You never really know until you see a guy. Seeing his attention to detail and how fundamentally sound he is every single day, and how competitive - and how he likes to work - it makes sense why he's had so much success, and why he's going to just keep getting better." This offseason, Goff has been working on going through his progressions more quickly. That's an important aspect of playing quarterback, helping find the open receiver faster rather than holding onto the ball for too long - something Goff does more than he should. Robinson will work with him on that, along with several other things. One transition Goff has to get acclimated to is the switch from John Sullivan to second-year center Brian Allen. Robinson says Goff has "already taken a lot of ownership in terms of protections" and that the two have meshed well in the early goings, which is crucial to the success of the Rams offense. MORE: Stephen A. Smith: 'Andre Iguodala is planning on joining the Lakers' Klay Thompson celebrates new deal with Warriors with hilarious 'Wolf of Wall Street' video Projected depth chart for the 76ers with Al Horford, Josh Richardson Do Cowboys have horses to absorb another Ezekiel Elliott suspension? Kawhi Leonard Rumors: No Decision Yet, Lakers Not Ahead of Clippers or Raptors


New Zealand's proposed buyback of semi-automatic firearms could cost as much as $300 million NZD ($200 million), Winston Peters, the country's deputy prime minister, said Tuesday. In the wake of the Christchurch terrorist attacks on March 15 which killed 50 people , New Zealand has acted swiftly to change its gun laws. On Tuesday, a bill which proposes banning semi-automatic firearms, magazines and parts used to assemble illegal firearms passed its first reading in Parliament, gaining the support of every lawmaker in the house, bar one. If the bill passes, gun owners will have an amnesty until September to hand in their weapons and be compensated as part of a proposed buyback scheme. The government had previously said the proposed buyback could cost between $100 to $200 million NZD ($68 and $136 million), but on Tuesday morning Peters revised the estimate to $300 million NZD ($200 million). "Now, this is an extravagant statement but it may well be true -- it could cost up to $300 million to set what's wrong right," he told CNN affiliate Radio New Zealand (RNZ). He admitted the government was unable to assess the full cost of the scheme, as it didn't know how many weapons, or what kind, it would need to buy back. In New Zealand, gun owners require a license, but do not have to register their weapons, meaning no one knows for certain how many guns are in circulation. The New Zealand Police estimates that there are around 1.2 million firearms in the country. As of Monday, 211 firearms had been handed in to police, with some gun owners even doing so before the proposed law changes had been announced, according to a statement from New Zealand Police. But Nicole McKee, the secretary of the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners, disputed the government's buyback sum, telling RNZ that the law change would cost taxpayers "billions." "We are very concerned about the unfair and unjust treatment of the New Zealand firearm owners," she said on Tuesday, adding that it would make the 250,000 "law-abiding" citizens who are licensed firearm owners into criminals. A petition opposing the proposed changes has now gained almost 15,000 signatures. Australia also introduced a gun buyback after a shooter killed 35 people in Tasmania. The country's then-government recovered about 640,000 prohibited weapons, according to the Australian National Audit Office. Swift changes The public will have two days to make a submission on the bill -- a much shorter period than usual -- before it goes back before Parliament next Tuesday for its second reading. Peters has said that he expects the gun changes to come into effect by April 12, four weeks after the Christchurch terrorist attack. The sole opposing voice in parliament on Tuesday was David Seymour, the leader of ACT, a right-wing minority party. "I urge caution," he told Parliament. "I urge public consultation. I urge that we do our job as a parliament and truly honor the victims of this tragedy by defending our democracy." Kelvin Davis, a member of parliament who is part of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's governing Labour Party, said he had handed in his own semi-automatic rifle to the police the Tuesday after the attack. "The point is that the safety of New Zealanders is more important than my need or my right to own a semi-automatic .22," he told lawmakers. "We can't say with certainty what the cost of the buyback will be ... But then again, what's the cost of an event like we saw on 15 March?"