FACES MILITARY NHL Zack Snyder mixes NATO warns of Rookies making social commentary Russia’s behavior early impact for into zombie movie toward Ukraine teams in playoffs Page 18 Page 3 Page 24

Illinois Reserve unit found to have mishandled assault reports ›› Page 3

stripes.com

Volume 80 Edition 29 ©SS 2021 THURSDAY,MAY 27, 2021 50¢/Free to Deployed Areas

VIRUS OUTBREAK Follow-up probe into pandemic’s origins sought

The Washington Post WASHINGTON — The United States’ top health official called Tuesday for a swift follow-up in- vestigation into the coronavirus’ origins amid renewed questions about whether the virus jumped from an animal host into humans in a naturally occurring event or escaped from a lab in Wuhan, Chi- na. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra told an annual ministe- rial meeting of the World Health Organi- zation that inter- national experts should be given “the independ- ence to fully as- Becerra sess the source of the virus and the early days of the outbreak.” Becerra’s remarks, which were prerecorded, signaled that the Bi- MOLLY CRAWFORD/U.S. Navy den administration would contin- Sailors assigned to Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Port Royal return to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, in April. ue to press the WHO to expand its investigation to determine the vi- rus’s origins. Additionally, Biden on Wednes- day asked the intelligence com- Navy relaxes COVID-19 rules munity to redouble its efforts to determine the virus’ origin. In a statement, Biden said he has Fully vaccinated sailors can now make some port calls and often go mask-free asked for a report within 90 days and hopes the intelligence com- BY NANCY MONTGOMERY RELATED plans and strategy, said in a state- “safe haven” ports, including in munity “will collect and analyze Stars and Stripes ment. “Now with vaccines and Guam, Bahrain, Japan and Spain, information that could bring us Sailors who have been fully vac- US bases in Japan CDC scientific data, we are able to and use on-base gyms, commis- closer to a definitive conclusion.” cinated against COVID-19 can relax many of the procedures we saries and other services. In his statement, Biden said a now make some port calls, often update restrictions put in place and still provide for They can also go mask-free and report he received last month said go mask-free and deploy without the health protection of the force.” stop social distancing in most sit- the intelligence community has quarantining beforehand, the Na- amid surge in virus The rules apply to personnel on uations. Masks will still be re- “coalesced around two likely sce- vy has announced. Page 5 ships, submarines and aircraft, quired for medical and dental care narios” but has not reached a de- “With more than a year operat- Sawyer wrote in a servicewide providers when treating patients, finitive conclusion about whether ing in the COVID environment, the spread of COVID-19,” Vice message issued Monday. Fully on public transportation and for the virus emerged from human we have gained significant exper- Adm. Phillip Sawyer, deputy chief vaccinated personnel will be al- tise in mitigating and preventing of naval operations for operations, lowed port calls in designated SEE RULES ON PAGE 6 SEE PROBE ON PAGE 6 PAGE 2 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 BUSINESS/WEATHER EU sues AstraZeneca over vaccine deliveries EXCHANGE RATES

Military rates So. Korea (Won) 1,117.94 Associated Press tion for a further 100 million. The he added that “with a six-month de- Switzerland (Franc) .8962 Euro costs (May 27) $1.19 Thailand (Baht) 31.25 BRUSSELS — The European doses were expected to be deliver- lay, it’s obviously a failure.” Dollar buys (May 27) 0.7966 Turkey (New Lira) 8.4432 British pound (May 27) $1.38 Union took on vaccine producer ed throughout 2021. But only 30 His main argument is that Astra- Japanese yen (May 27) 106.00 (Military exchange rates are those available AstraZeneca in a Brussels court on million were sent during the first Zeneca should have used produc- South Korean won (May 27) 1,092.00 to customers at military banking facilities in the Commercial rates country of issuance for Japan, South Korea, Ger­ Wednesday with the urgent de- quarter. tion sites in the bloc and the United many, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Bahrain (Dinar) .3770 For nonlocal currency exchange rates (i.e., pur­ mand that the company needs to Deliveries have increased slight- Kingdom for EU supplies as part of Britain (Pound) 1.4129 chasing British pounds in Germany), check with Canada (Dollar) 1.2110 your local military banking facility. Commercial make an immediate delivery of CO- ly since then, but according to the a “best reasonable effort” clause in China (Yuan) 6.3930 rates are interbank rates provided for reference Denmark (Krone) 6.0807 VID-19 shots the bloc insists were European Commission, the compa- the contract. Egypt (Pound) 15.6753 when buying currency. All figures are foreign already due. ny is set to provide only 70 million While the bloc insists AstraZene- Euro .8177 currencies to one dollar, except for the British Hong Kong (Dollar) 7.7624 pound, which is represented in dollars­to­ AstraZeneca’s contract signed doses in the second quarter. It had ca has breached its contractual Hungary (Forint) 286.20 pound, and the euro, which is dollars­to­euro.) Israel (Shekel) 3.2473 with the European Commission, promised 180 million. obligations, the company says it Japan (Yen) 108.94 INTEREST RATES the EU’s executive arm, on behalf EU lawyer Rafael Jafferali told has fully complied with the agree- Kuwait (Dinar) .3006 Norway (Krone) 8.3265 Prime rate 3.25 of member states foresaw an initial the court that the company now ex- ment, arguing that vaccines are dif- Philippines (Peso) 48.10 Interest Rates Discount rate 0.75 Poland (Zloty) 3.68 Federal funds market rate 0.09 300 million doses for distribution pects to deliver the total number of ficult to manufacture and it made Saudi Arab (Riyal) 3.7503 3­month bill 0.02 among all 27 countries, with an op- doses by the end of December, but its best effort to deliver on time. Singapore (Dollar) 1.3244 30­year bond 2.26 WEATHER OUTLOOK THURSDAY IN THE MIDDLE EAST THURSDAY IN EUROPE FRIDAY IN THE PACIFIC

Misawa 59/55

Kabul Seoul 83/53 64/52 Baghdad 104/73 Drawsko Osan Tokyo Kandahar Mildenhall/ 66/53 72/54 Pomorskie Busan 100/63 Lakenheath 55/46 62/42 66/59 Iwakuni Kuwait City 67/62 Bahrain Brussels Zagan Sasebo Guam 103/83 93/86 Ramstein 59/50 71/63 61/46 57/46 84/82 Riyadh Lajes, Stuttgart 105/72 Doha Azores Pápa 62/60 60/46 104/84 Aviano/ 66/47 Vicenza 65/51

Naples 71/57 Okinawa Morón 82/79 83/60 Sigonella Rota 80/57 The weather is provided by the Djibouti 71/60 Souda Bay American Forces Network Weather Center, 92/82 72/68 2nd Weather Squadron at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. TODAY IN STRIPES American Roundup ...... 11 Classified ...... 13 Comics ...... 16 Crossword ...... 16 Faces ...... 18 Opinion ...... 14 Sports ...... 19-24 Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 3 MILITARY NATO warns of Russia’s Ukraine behavior

Stars and Stripes In April, Moscow announced denounced by Washington and Ky- NATO has warned that Russia is that it was pulling back its forces iv. Ukraine described it as an esca- continuing with a “pattern of ag- from the Ukrainian border, claim- lation of Russia’s efforts to destabil- gressive behavior” toward Ukraine ing they had been conducting rou- ize the nation because it would pre- by stationing large forces near tine exercises. But it remains un- vent access to its ports in the Sea of their border and restricting navi- clear how many troops and gear Azov, which is connected to the gation in the Black Sea. were left behind during the with- Black Sea through the Kerch Strait. Earlier this year, Russia de- drawal. Stoltenberg said NATO would ployed more than 100,000 troops to Stoltenberg said Russia contin- continue to support its partners in the border region, raising concerns ues to restrict navigation in the the region, saying the Russian in the West that Moscow intended Black Sea, including near the moves were “part of a pattern of ag- to invade its neighbor with whom it Kerch Strait, which has been a gressive actions, which raise seri- has been at odds since the seizure flashpoint between Russian and ous concerns.” in 2014 of Ukraine’s Crimean Pen- Ukrainian warships in recent The two leaders also sharply crit- insula. years. icized the detention Sunday of an “While Russia has pulled back MIKE ABRAMS/Russian defense ministry Moscow announced last month it opposition journalist from Belarus some troops, tens of thousands re- Ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet train during an exercise in the will block all foreign naval vessels who was pulled off a Ryanair jet main in and around Ukraine, as sea last month. from transiting the strait until Oc- that was diverted to Minsk, in what well as significant amounts of tober, saying it would be conduct- Western leaders have called a case weapons,” NATO Secretary-Gen- sels headquarters by Estonian ern Ukrainian separatists in a war ing land and sea exercises in the ar- of state-sponsored hijacking. eral Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. that the United Nations estimates ea. during a visit to the alliance’s Brus- Moscow continues to back east- has claimed thousands of lives. The decision was immediately [email protected]  Ill. Reserve unit found to have mishandled assault reports BY ROSE L. THAYER Despite this finding, he said victims “re- Stars and Stripes ceived all the support and care that they A general officer and a dozen soldiers in needed in terms of medical support, legal an Illinois-based Reserve unit face disci- support [and] counseling support.” plinary action for mishandling sexual ha- “When I say that the victims themselves rassment and sexual assault reports while were taken care of, it had to do with all those not properly implementing a service pro- other support needs outside of the process gram to respond to such incidents, accord- of investigating the complaint,” Mosser ing to an Army investigation released Tues- said. Those needs include emotional and day. physical support. “We must ensure every member of the The investigation also found the unit had Army Reserve team is valued and treated challenges in resourcing and properly com- with dignity and respect at all times,” said plying with SHARP program regulatory re- Maj. Gen. Greg Mosser, deputy command- quirements for several years, had failed to er of the Army Reserve Command. “We’re monitor annual training requirements, had committed to eradicating these destructive multiple SHARP program staffing gaps, actions from our ranks as we work together and lacked effective procedures to hire cre- and move forward in a unified effort.” dentialed, trained civilian program person- In the wake of the investigation, the Army nel, Mosser said. Reserve Command has begun training and However, Braley Franck, who first spoke educating its 190,000 soldiers and 11,000 ci- to the AP and has been on paid administra- vilian employees on proper procedures and tive leave since November 2019, said she bystander intervention in cases of sexual does not believe it’s accurate to say that all harassment and sexual assault, Mosser CHARLES REX ARBOGAST/AP victims have received proper care. Some said. Amy Braley Franck, a civilian victim advocate with the 416th Theater Engineer are still awaiting financial reimbursements The 416th Theater Engineer Command, Command, poses for a portrait with more than 800 pages from several sexual abuse such as medical pay or reimbursement for headquartered in Durian, Ill., came under reports at her home in Oswego, Ill., in January 2020. traveling to case proceedings. scrutiny about 15 months ago when Amy “I just don’t know what kind of shenani- Braley Franck, a civilian hired as a victim not reveal their rank or position in the ser- gation makes clear that the Army is work- gans they’re trying to pull,” she said. advocate, released documents to The Asso- vice. ing to improve how it handles allegations of Spc. Sara Joachimstaler, a member of the ciated Press that revealed at least two sex- Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, commander of sexual assault, but more must be done. In 416th who reported being assaulted by a ual assault complaints were not sent to Army Reserve Command, took administra- Congress, we will continue to support pro- sergeant, said the idea that she and other criminal investigators, but were instead tive action against 12 other officers, non- grams that improve the military justice sys- victims were properly taken care of down- dealt with internally — a violation of mili- commissioned officers, and Army civilians tem, increase training for command lead- plays her actual experience. tary policy and federal law. The news re- based on the investigation. Three additional ers, and offer support for sexual assault and “They don’t take care of their victims at port outlined other allegations that the unit civilian actions are still pending. harassment survivors. Service members all,” she said. was not following requirements for manag- Mosser declined to name the ranks or po- cannot be silenced or abandoned for seek- After Braley Franck was suspended, Joa- ing sex-crime cases nor was it properly im- sitions of the 12 soldiers facing discipline or ing justice and accountability. We look for- chimstaler said she did not have a victim ad- plementing the Army’s Sexual Harass- the actions for which they were being held ward to continuing to work with the Depart- vocate until she was quoted saying so in a ment/Assault Response and Prevention responsible. Seven of the disciplined sol- ment of Defense on this important issue,” news report. Then the newly appointed vic- Program, known commonly as SHARP. diers will receive general officer memoran- Durbin and Duckworth said in a prepared tim advocate told her that the case would be Maj. Gen. Miyako N. Schanely, the unit’s dums of reprimand and the remaining five statement. dismissed if the soldier didn’t respond to former commander, failed to properly im- will receive adverse counseling statements, The Reserve investigation focused main- communication. plement the SHARP program and received he said. ly on the processes of the SHARP program With her enlistment ending, the 25-year- a general officer memorandum of repri- Following the AP’s reporting last year, Il- to find any gaps in reporting or information, old said she does not think she will re-enlist. mand from Gen. Joseph M. Martin, the Ar- linois Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Mosser said. A redacted version of the 268- “It’s degrading to your life,” Joachimstal- my vice chief of staff. She was previously Durbin, both Democrats, called on the Ar- page report was released publicly Tuesday. er said. “Instead of doing your job, you’ve suspended from command over the issue, my to conduct the administration investiga- “The investigation revealed numerous got to work to defend yourself. You’ve got to the Army said. tion, known as a 15-6. In a joint statement, shortfalls and found various individuals work not to get caught in someone’s lie.” Martin also took administrative action they said the pervasive problems of the unit and units improperly handled reports of against two other senior leaders for their are “unacceptable” within the military. sexual assault and harassment,” Mosser [email protected] performance failures, though the Army did “The Army Reserve’s completed investi- said. Twitter: @Rose_Lori PAGE 4 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 MILITARY USAF secretary pick driven by China concerns BY COREY DICKSTEIN tion. Kendall, if confirmed, would derail a number of critical Air Stars and Stripes “Our adversaries should become the 26th Air Force secre- Force modernization programs, Frank Kendall, President Joe tary and replace acting Air Force including the development of its Biden’s nominee for Air Force never doubt the United Secretary John P. Roth, who also new nuclear bomber, the B-21 secretary, told senators on Tues- began that role Jan. 20. Raider. It could also slow the day that he was driven to return to States, but there is still Beyond competition with China fielding of advanced F-35 Joint the Defense Department by con- and Russia, Kendall said his other Strike Fighters, which despite cerns over China’s improving bat- much to be done.” top priority would be to take care well-documented and expensive tlefield technology. Frank Kendall of his personnel, which includes problems, remains the “best tacti- Kendall, who served as the Pen- some 697,000 Air Force and Space cal aircraft of its type in the world tagon’s top weapons buyer under Air Force secretary nominee Force troops and civilian employ- and will be so for quite some former President Barack Obama, ees. He committed to working time,” Kendall said. listed ensuring the Air Force and ies.” fense,” Reed said. “I look forward with senators to improve on-post Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, Space Force retained military ad- Kendall, 72, testified in support to your confirmations.” housing and other quality-of-life said he was worried the Biden vantage over any potential foe of his nomination before the Sen- The committee also voted Tues- issues, including looking into White House would not follow the among his top priorities, if con- ate committee alongside Heidi day to advance Biden’s nominee command climates throughout 2018 advice of a congressionally firmed. He recalled a “highly Shyu, Biden’s nominee for under- for Army secretary, Christine the service. mandated panel, the National De- classified” 2010 Pentagon meet- secretary of defense for research Wormuth, to the full Senate for a He also endorsed the need for fense Strategy Commission, ing in which he first learned of and engineering, and Susanna confirmation vote. If confirmed, change to the military’s approach which recommended the Penta- China’s push to improve its mil- Blume, the president’s nominee she would be the first woman to to solving its longstanding prob- gon’s budget increase 3% to 5% itary capabilities in an eye-open- for director for the Pentagon’s serve as the Army’s top civilian. lems with high rates of sexual as- annually to compete with China ing effort “to defeat the ability of Cost Assessment and Program Like Kendall, Wormuth in a sault and harassment in its ranks. and Russia, as the 2018 National the United States to project power Evaluation Office. Like Kendall, Senate Armed Services Commit- Kendall called efforts spearhead- Defense Strategy prioritized. near China.” Shyu and Blume served in high- tee hearing earlier this month list- ed by Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, D- “I can commit to you to fight for “We have made progress level Pentagon positions during ed competition with power rivals N.Y., and Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, to the budget that’s necessary to ful- against these threats, and our ad- Obama’s administration. China and Russia and the Penta- remove military commanders fill the National Defense Strategy, versaries should never doubt the Senators on Tuesday appeared gon’s ongoing modernization ef- from the sexual assault prosecu- whatever that [number] may be,” United States, but there is still poised to confirm all three, with forts among her top priorities. tion process potentially “very Kendall said. “So, if it’s 5% or it’s much to be done,” Kendall told several praising their selections Wormuth is also a veteran of the beneficial in this area.” 10%, I will try to get the money the Senate Armed Services Com- by the Biden administration and Obama administration, serving “Change is necessary,” Kendall that is needed by the Department mittee. “My hope is that, if con- committing to support their nomi- previously as the Pentagon’s civil- told Gillibrand. “Hopefully we of the Air Force, if I’m confirmed, firmed, I will be able to lead the nations, including committee ian policy chief among other De- can move forward.” so that the Air Force can support Department of the Air Force in chairman Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I. fense Department and National Kendall also committed to combatant commanders however organizing, training and equip- “Previously, you [each have] Security Council jobs. pushing back against across-the- they need to carry out that strate- ping our nation’s aerospace forces demonstrated the thoughtfulness, If confirmed, she would replace board cuts to defense spending, gy.” so that the United States can con- and the integrity, and the commit- acting Army Secretary John which some liberal Democrats tinue to deter, and if necessary, ment that is essential to being a Whitley, who has held that role have pressed Biden to propose. [email protected] fight and win against all adversar- part of the Department of De- since Biden’s Jan. 20 inaugura- Budget cuts have the potential to Twitter: @CDicksteinDC Tester unveils huge plan for vets suffering from toxic exposure BY NIKKI WENTLING would reform the VA’s current process of gressional Budget Office, which provides outside the Capitol building. Stars and Stripes handling claims of toxic exposure. cost and economic information to Con- Comedian Jon Stewart is expected to WASHINGTON — Sen. Jon Tester, D- The effort includes older veterans, too. gress, has not yet shared its cost estimate speak at the event. Stewart became a Mont., unveiled a massive plan Tuesday The bill calls for presumptive benefits for the legislation. fierce advocate for 9/11 responders who to extend disability benefits to veterans for Vietnam War veterans who have de- “I don’t know what this costs,” Tester developed illnesses from the toxic fumes of all eras who suffer the effects of toxic veloped hypertension because of expo- said. “But I’m going to tell you how I ap- at the destroyed World Trade Center, and exposure, with a partic- sure to chemical herbicides, as well as proach this: We have to make this thing he recently turned his attention to veter- ular focus on veterans veterans who served in Thailand, Laos, work financially. … We have an all-vol- ans suffering from diseases caused by who served in overseas Cambodia, Guam or American Samoa unteer military. If we expect people to exposure to burn pits and other toxic en- conflicts since 1990. during certain periods of the 1960s and step up, we have to make sure we hold up vironments since the Gulf War. The legislation, titled 1970s and were potentially exposed to our end of the deal and ensure promises The two bills are not identical, and the Comprehensive and herbicides. are kept.” Tester said he’s willing to work with Overdue Support for “Decade after decade, our service The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Commit- House lawmakers to reconcile the differ- Troops of War Act of members have returned home from war tee, which Tester leads, was considering ences. Lawmakers hope to pass a bill 2021, would create a fast only to be met with a piecemeal process Wednesday whether to advance the legis- through Congress by the end of the year. Tester track to Department of as they try to cobble together health care lation to the Senate floor for a vote. “It’s a very high priority for me,” Test- Veterans Affairs bene- and disability benefits they’ve earned,” Also Wednesday, the House Veterans’ er said. “There are going to be times it’s fits for veterans who served overseas Tester said on a phone call with report- Affairs Committee was planning to un- not going as fast as I want it to be. But I’ve during the past 31 years and developed a ers. “I’m proud to unveil my comprehen- veil its own bill directed at veterans suf- instructed my staff to push, push, push, respiratory illness or cancer. It would au- sive and overdue support.” fering from toxic exposure. The House push, push, and they’re going to do it.” tomatically grant eligibility for VA health Tester is anticipating pushback on the version, the Honoring our Promise to Ad- care to about 3.5 million veterans of the bill because of its cost, which remains un- dress Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2021, [email protected] Iraq and Afghanistan wars. In addition, it known but is likely significant. The Con- will be introduced during a ceremony Twitter: @nikkiwentling Alabama officials rule shooting death of Army sergeant as justifiable

BY CAROL ROBINSON their investigation to the Jefferson South. Officers arrived to find ing a bag on the porch of a resi- tioned by detectives.” al.com County District Attorney’s Office, Hampton critically injured and dence when he was approached by On the morning following A U.S. Army soldier shot to which deemed the fatal shooting of asked for a rush on the medics. the occupants of the home. Police Hampton’s death, before author- death last week in South East Lake, Sgt. Tavarius Hampton, 25, justi- Hampton was taken to the hospital have not said what was in the bag. ities had released his identity, his Ala., fired first, so no criminal fiable. Hampton was stationed at where he was later pronounced “It is reported both men ap- family had posted on Facebook charges will be filed in his slaying, Fort Campbell, Ky., but his family dead. proached the subject and gunfire that he had been missing since authorities said. lives in Birmingham. Birmingham Police Sgt. Rod was exchanged, fatally wounding Sunday. Birmingham police Tuesday The shooting happened May 17 Mauldin said the investigation the subject,’' Mauldin said. “Both He was the father of two chil- said they presented the findings of in the 7800 block of Sixth Avenue showed Hampton was seen leav- suspects were detained and ques- dren, ages 1 and 2. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 5 MILITARY US bases update rules as virus surges in Japan

BY JOSEPH DITZLER chi, Fukuoka, Osaka, Kyoto, Hyo- Stars and Stripes go, Hokkaido, Okayama, Hiroshi- TOKYO — Japan’s latest coro- ma with approval by a squadron navirus surge spurred U.S. mili- commander or equivalent until tary bases to impose further trav- Monday and for leave in Okinawa el restrictions Wednesday as the until June 20, according to a base nation’s two largest metro areas Facebook post Wednesday. looked at extending their public Marine Corps Air Station Iwa- health emergencies. kuni put all prefectures under L.E. BASKOW, LAS VEGAS REVIEW­JOURNAL/ AP Case numbers continued to fall emergencies off limits for leave Military personnel investigate a fighter jet crash near Nellis Air Force Base on Monday in Las Vegas. A Wednesday in Tokyo and Osaka and liberty, according to its Face- civilian pilot was killed in the crash. prefectures, though Japan overall book page. recorded its highest one-day tally U.S. Army Japan divided emer- of 4,176 new infections, according gency prefectures into those of to public broadcaster NHK. significant risk and those of high Military, officials investigate fatal The report said Tokyo and Osa- risk. Significant risk areas in- ka are considering requests to the clude the 23 central wards of To- jet crash in Las Vegas near base national government that would kyo and the prefectures of Aichi, allow both prefectures to extend Hyogo, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Oita Associated Press The National Transportation Safety Board emergency declarations that and Okayama. A colonel or equiv- LAS VEGAS — Military and federal authorities joined military officials in the investigation. were imposed April 12 and ex- alent must sign off on leave re- said Tuesday they were probing the cause of a Agency spokesman Eric Weiss said Tuesday it tended May 7. Six of Japan’s 47 quests in those areas, the com- fighter jet crash that killed a civilian pilot but did was too early to report on a cause of the crash. prefectures were under a state of mand announced Wednesday on not injure anyone on the ground in a residential Preliminary findings will be released within emergency in April. That number Facebook. area near Nellis Air Force Base. two weeks, Weiss said, and findings and a final grew to 10 this month. High risk areas include Fukuo- The Dassault Mirage F-1 that crashed Monday report could take up to two years. The U.S. military in Japan by 6 ka, Osaka, Hokkaido and Okina- afternoon was owned and operated by Florida- Draken spokeswoman Christina Childs said the p.m. Wednesday had reported 10 wa prefectures, and travel there based Draken US, a military contractor providing company, based in Lakeland, Fla., was cooperat- new cases of COVID-19, the coro- requires the commanding gener- “adversary air support” during aerial war games ing with federal, state and local authorities in- navirus respiratory disease, all at al’s approval. flown from Nellis into restricted air space over cluding the NTSB. Marine Corps bases on Okinawa. For all commands, basic pro- central Nevada, a statement from the base said. Draken provides tactical aircraft, “adversarial Camp Foster has eight new pa- hibitions remain in effect for The pilot was Nicholas Hunter Hamilton, 43, of support, electronic attack or customized rotary tients and Camps Kinser and bars, adult entertainment venues Las Vegas, the Clark County coroner said. He was wing training,” and pilots including former U.S. Hansen each have one, according like nightclubs, dance and ka- the only person aboard the French aircraft, which military personnel, for combat training at Nellis to a Facebook post by Marine raoke clubs and similar business- records show was built in 1982. and other sites. Corps Installations Pacific. es. Hamilton graduated from the Air Force Acade- “We train the next generation of fighter pilots Okinawa prefecture set another Tokyo on Wednesday reported my in 2000 and was a fighter pilot for 20 years, which is a crucial aspect of our national security,” one-day record for the third time van additional 743 people have including multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, Childs said in an email. since Saturday and reported 302 been infected with the coronavi- the Reno Gazette Journal said. He retired from She did not immediately respond to messages new COVID-19 patients Wednes- rus, 23 fewer than the same day a the Air Force in March 2020 to fly for Draken In- about Hamilton's military history. day, according to NHK. week ago, NHK reported. Neigh- ternational. In August 2016, not far from Nellis, a Draken Bases in Japan continue to up- boring Kanagawa prefecture, In Las Vegas, homeowner Jose Villanueva told pilot with more than two decades of experience date their travel limits in prefec- home to several U.S. military in- the Las Vegas Review-Journal he escaped injury received minor injuries when he ejected before tures where coronavirus condi- stallations, reported 225 cases on when the jet slammed into his yard and his uncle’s the Douglas A-4K Skyhawk he was flying crashed tions are changing and where Wednesday, 44 fewer than a week adjacent yard. Attempts by AP to reach Villanue- in the desert near the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. emergencies are underway. ago. va by telephone were not successful. Investigators later said it appeared that debris Yokota Air Base in western To-

“It was a really, really, really, really strong entered the engine of the Vietnam War-era attack kyo, for example, permits non- [email protected] noise,” he told the newspaper. jet, causing a loss of power. mission essential travel within Ai- Twitter: @JosephDitzler Bill would expand access to health care for Guard, Reserve BY SARAH CAMMARATA Now, only those who are called for Guard members more in line the coronavirus pandemic, ex- eligibility for service members Stars and Stripes to active-duty status for more than with active-duty troops. treme weather events, and civil who go on-and-off duty orders in WASHINGTON — Health care 30 days are eligible for coverage. “It’s just not fair to ask them to protests and riots. less than a month. coverage for National Guard The Healthcare for Our Troops put their lives on the line and not It was more than four times as Greater access to mental health members and reservists would be Act aims to expand access to affor- have the same coverage and same many days as Guard troops served care or counseling for members expanded under a bill introduced dable health care for about benefits as their active counter- in 2019, according to recent com- who do not have health insurance Tuesday, as calls to make benefits 130,000 members, or 16% of the parts,” Kelly said. ments from Gen. Daniel Hokan- could also decrease the number of more equitable for these service Guard and Reserve, who lack pri- Kim said affordable care would son, the chief of the National suicides in the National Guard, the members is gaining traction in vate health insurance. be one small way to repay service Guard Bureau. general said. Congress. Kelly served as a combat engi- members who kept him safe dur- Amid a year of unprecedented The number of deaths by sui- The bill from Reps. Andy Kim, neer in the Mississippi Army Na- ing his time in Afghanistan where levels of support from Guard cide in the National Guard rose D-N.J., and Trent Kelly, R-Miss., tional Guard for 35 years before he worked as a strategic adviser members, Hokanson has been vo- from 90 in 2019 to 118 at the end of would allow all National Guard his promotion to major general in before being elected to Congress. cal on Capitol Hill about support 2020, according to the Defense members and reservists to sign up December. Last year, National Guard sol- for expanded health care cover- Department. for TRICARE Reserve Select, a The congressman said he has diers and airmen logged more age for troops. premium-based health care plan, been pushing for four years to than 10.9 million days of service to Lawmakers have also raised [email protected] without additional fees or copays. bring benefits and pay allowances support missions in response to alarm bells over gaps in medical Twitter: @sarahjcamm PAGE 6 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 VIRUS OUTBREAK Probe: Theory of lab leak gaining traction FROM PAGE 1 But the U.S. and other nations contact with an animal or from a raised concerns about the limits lab accident. placed on that mission and called As the coronavirus ravaged the on China to be more transparent. U.S. and much of the world last The U.S. and other nations voiced year, an early theory was that it concern that “the international emerged from a market in Wuhan expert study on the source of the that sold meat from wild animals SARS-CoV-2 virus was signifi- raised in captivity and then swiftly cantly delayed and lacked access spread across the globe. Experts to complete, original data and in viral genome evolution deter- samples.” mined that it almost certainly was The comments from Biden offi- not engineered as a bioweapon be- cials on Tuesday reiterate the ad- cause it has several naturally oc- ministration’s stance, but it re- curring features and is closely re- mains unclear whether or how lated to a 2014 coronavirus that they might exert pressure on Chi- came from a bat in a cave in China. na to be more transparent. But they also said they could not The Biden administration has rule out that the virus may have not retracted a statement by the escaped from the Wuhan Institute Office of the Director of National of Virology, a research lab that Intelligence, released during the studies coronaviruses. Trump administration, that said While the lab leak theory was the intelligence community “con- initially dismissed as unlikely, re- curs with the wide scientific con- JOHN BELLINO/U.S. Navy cent reports about the hospitaliza- sensus that the COVID-19 virus Seaman Jlyn Bautista administers a COVID­19 vaccine to Petty Officer 3rd Class Nicholas Wingle aboard tion of Wuhan lab researchers in was not man-made or genetically the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington in April. November 2019 — weeks before modified.” The statement said the virus was identified in that city that intelligence agencies would — have given it new traction. A continue to examine information Rules: Navy has highest vaccination rate in military WHO-led team concluded in Feb- “to determine whether the out- ruary that a lab leak was extreme- break began through contact with FROM PAGE 1 Once deployed, ships avoided on Navy ships, have been less will- ly unlikely after visiting the Wu- infected animals, or if it was the those joining a crew underway, re- most port calls. Some stayed at sea ing than sailors to get vaccinated. han facility, but some internation- result of an accident at a laborato- gardless of immunization status. for 10 months. Nearly 40% of the 123,000 Marines al scientists and researchers said ry in Wuhan.” Sailors diagnosed with CO- That followed the mass infec- who had the chance to receive the the findings were tainted by poli- Although the Trump adminis- VID-19 in the past three months tion of some 1,200 sailors, includ- vaccine by April had declined it, tics and called for further investi- tration also sought answers on the who have antibodies will also be ing one who died, on the aircraft USA Today reported, citing Pen- gation. virus’s origins, some officials went able to skip the 14-day quarantine carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt tagon figures. Hundreds of zoonotic viruses further, suggesting China inten- before deployments, the message in March 2020. None of the fully immunized jump from animals to humans and tionally released or engineered stated. The Navy is now seeing the mil- sailors and Marines have been cause all manner of diseases, the virus. Trump’s former trade Unvaccinated sailors who don’t itary’s highest vaccination rate hospitalized to date for COVID-19, which is why scientists’ default as- adviser, Peter Navarro, was one of have antibodies for COVID-19 will and the lowest number of CO- the Navy said, highlighting the op- sumption was that the pandemic the biggest proponents of that the- still be required to comply with VID-19 cases, Sawyer wrote. More erational importance of wide- was a naturally occurring event. ory and accused China of engi- previous quarantine and testing than 230,000 Navy and Marine spread vaccination. Many scientists who study zoonot- neering the virus as a bioweapon. protocols. Corps personnel have been fully “The science is pretty clear, ic diseases say it’s still the more The Wall Street Journal report- The pandemic was particularly immunized, he said. vaccinations are key to best pro- likely scenario. But in part be- ed earlier this week that three re- disruptive on ships and subma- “We must continue to pursue tecting our sailors,” Sawyer said. cause scientists have not yet iden- searchers from the Wuhan Insti- rines, where social distancing in full vaccination and apply best “The more sailors that are vacci- tified the animal that may have tute of Virology lab became sick tight quarters is all but impossi- health protection measures both nated, the better for them, their spread the virus to humans, the enough in November 2019 that ble. Crews had been required to at home and at work to sustain and families, the Navy and the nation.” Wuhan lab theory has gained they sought hospital care, renew- board ships early for quarantine improve upon this performance,” more credibility. ing interest in the lab origin theo- ahead of deployments, adding two Sawyer said. [email protected] At a White House briefing Tues- ry. more weeks to time away. Marines, who routinely deploy Twitter: @montgomerynance day, Anthony Fauci, the govern- The newspaper cited a U.S. in- ment’s leading infectious disease telligence report as the source and expert, said he believes it’s most noted that one person said the in- likely the virus originated from a formation came from an “interna- “natural occurrence.” But he said tional partner,” who described it Moderna: Vaccine works from age 12 a deeper probe is warranted. as potentially significant but need- Associated Press The company studied more than cases. At least 316 have died in the At that same briefing, Andy Sla- ing further corroboration. Moderna said Tuesday that its 3,700 12- to 17-year-olds. Prelimina- U.S. alone, according to a tally by vitt, the White House senior advis- That echoed an earlier report COVID-19 vaccine strongly pro- ry findings showed the vaccine trig- the American Academy of Pediat- er on the coronavirus response, from the State Department, tects kids as young as 12, a step that gered the same signs of immune rics. expressed frustration at barriers which, in the final days of the could put the shot on track to be- protection in kids as it does in With plenty of vaccine supply in imposed on international scien- Trump administration, said “the come the second option for that age adults, and the same kind of tempo- the U.S., younger teens flocked to tists by the Chinese government. U.S. government has reason to be- group in the United States. rary side effects such as sore arms, get Pfizer’s shot in the days after “It is our position that we need lieve that several researchers in- With global vaccine supplies still headache and fatigue. FDA opened it to them, part of a to get to the bottom of this, and we side the [Wuhan Institute of Virol- tight, much of the world is strug- There were no COVID-19 diag- push to get as many kids vaccinated need a completely transparent ogy] became sick in autumn gling to vaccinate adults in the noses in those given two doses of the as possible before the next school process from China. We need the 2019.” quest to end the pandemic. But ear- Moderna vaccine compared with year. WHO to assist in that matter. We The statement did not say pre- lier this month, the U.S. and Canada four cases among kids given dum- Both Pfizer and Moderna have don’t feel like we have that now,” cisely when the workers allegedly authorized another vaccine — the my shots. In a press release, the begun testing in even younger chil- Slavitt said. “That’s a critical pri- fell ill, or how many became sick, shot made by Pfizer and BioNTech company also said the vaccine ap- dren, from age 11 down to 6-month- ority for us.” but noted that their symptoms — to be used starting at age 12. peared 93% effective two weeks af- old babies. This testing is more The United Nations agency had emerged “before the first identi- Moderna aims to be next in line, ter the first dose. complex: Teens receive the same released a joint report with Chi- fied case of the outbreak” and saying it will submit its teen data to While children are far less likely dose as adults, but researchers are nese scientists in March after a were “consistent with both CO- the U.S. Food and Drug Adminis- than adults to get seriously ill from testing smaller doses in younger WHO-led mission spent four VID-19 and common seasonal ill- tration and other global regulators COVID-19, they represent about children. Experts hope to see some weeks in Wuhan earlier this year. nesses.” early next month. 14% of the nation’s coronavirus results in the fall. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 7 NATION GOP senators ready $1T infrastructure response to Biden Associated Press ing the corporate tax rate, from WASHINGTON — Senate Re- 21% to 28%. Instead, the GOP sen- publicans revived negotiations ators want to shift unspent CO- over President Joe Biden’s VID-19 relief funds to infrastruc- sweeping investment plan, pre- ture, which may be a nonstarter paring a $1 trillion infrastructure for Democrats. Republicans also proposal that would be funded want to rely on gas taxes, tolls with COVID-19 relief money as a and other fees charged to drivers counteroffer to the White House to pay for the highways and other ahead of a Memorial Day dead- infrastructure. line toward a bipartisan deal. The Republicans said their BILL O’LEARY, THE WASHINGTON POST/AP The Republicans said Tuesday new proposal would be aligned Sen. Joe Manchin, D­W.Va., listens as Sen. Susan Collins, R­Maine, on the monitor behind him, asks ques­that they would disclose details of with what they discussed with Bi- tions during a hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington. the new offer by Thursday, den in their first Oval Office sounding upbeat after both sides meeting almost two weeks ago. had panned other offers. “We are anxious to have a bi- At the White House, press sec- partisan agreement,” said Sen. Senators attempting to salvage retary Jen Psaki declined to ad- Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., dress the new plan but said, “We who is leading the group of GOP legislation on Jan. 6 commission expect this week to be a week of negotiators. progress.” A GOP aide who spoke on con- BY MARY CLARE JALONICK ed potential changes to the bill mob of former President Donald Talks over the infrastructure dition of anonymity to discuss the Associated Press and have consulted with other Trump’s supporters. investment are at a crossroads as private talks said the price tag WASHINGTON — Senators la- senators as part of the effort, ac- Absent an agreement on chang- Biden reaches for a top legisla- would be $1 trillion over eight bored to find a path forward for cording to the two people and an- es, Republicans are expected to tive priority. The White House is years, paid for by tapping funds legislation creating a commission other person with knowledge of block the bill whenever Demo- assessing whether the president that have been allocated as part on the Jan. 6 insurrection, debat- the negotiations. The three people crats bring it up for a vote, poten- can strike a bipartisan deal with of COVID-19 relief but not yet ing potential changes in a long- spoke on condition of anonymity tially as soon as this week. Only a Republicans on his American spent. The aide said about $700 shot attempt to overcome growing to discuss the private talks. handful of GOP senators have in- Jobs Plan or whether he will try billion remains in unspent virus GOP opposition. The House bill already at- dicated they will vote for it, and to go it alone with Democrats if aid. Republican Sen. Susan Collins tempts to address those two is- Democrats appear to be far short no progress is made in the days Democrats on Capitol Hill and Democratic Sen. Joe Man- sues, requiring the Democratic- of the 10 Republicans they need to ahead. were quick to rebuff dipping into chin were leading the informal appointed chair to consult with bypass a filibuster. Yet the administration and the coronavirus relief funds, partic- talks Tuesday, according to two Republicans when hiring staff, In a statement with Arizona GOP senators remain far apart ularly money that had been sent people familiar with the effort. and setting an end date of Dec. 31, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a fellow over the size and scope of the in- to the states and local govern- The talks were focusing on two is- 2021, for the commission to issue moderate Democrat, Manchin vestment needed to reboot the na- ments that now seems less urgent sues that Republican senators its findings. And the commission- said that the attack was “horrific” tion’s roads, bridges and broad- as some jurisdictions reported have cited for their opposition to ers would be evenly split between and that the bipartisan commis- band — but also, as Biden sees it, better-than-expected balance the House-passed legislation to the parties, with five Democrats sion is a “critical step.” the child care centers and green sheets. create the commission — ensur- and five Republicans. But many “We implore our Senate Re- energy investments needed for a ing that the panel’s staff is evenly Republicans have still said they publican colleagues to work with 21st-century economy. They also split between the parties and that don’t trust it will be a bipartisan us to find a path forward on a can’t agree on how to pay for it. its work does not spill over into effort, threatening the chances of commission to examine the The Republicans have uni- the midterm election year. a truly independent look at the vi- events of January 6th,” the two formly rejected Biden’s plan to Collins and Manchin have trad- olent attack on the Capitol by a senators said. pay for the investments by rais- Former senator, Navy secretary Warner dies at 94 Associated Press elected to the Senate in 1978. Serv- his Senate duties. willingness to buck the White ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Former ing five terms before retiring from The former secretary of the Navy, House. Sen. John W. Warner, of Virginia, a the chamber 30 years later, he drew a veteran of World War II and Ko- After a 2007 trip to Iraq, Warner former Navy secretary, has died at support from moderates of both ma- rea, Warner devoted most of his ca- called upon Bush to start bringing 94. jor parties, establishing himself at reer to military matters. troops home. He summoned top Warner died Tuesday of heart the center of American politics. Warner often defended the Bush Pentagon officials to hearings about failure at home in He was a key supporter of Presi- administration’s handling of the the Abu Ghraib prison abuse scan- Alexandria, Va, dent George W. Bush’s declaration war in Iraq, but he also showed a dal and the Iraq War. with his wife and of war in Iraq, and served for a time daughter at his as chairman of the Senate Armed side, his longtime Services Committee. He had an in- chief of staff, Su- dependent streak that sometimes san A. Magill, angered more conservative GOP said Wednesday. leaders, but he was hugely popular Warner “He was frail with Virginia voters. but had a lot of Warner was the sixth of Taylor’s spirit and was involved until his last seven husbands. The two were mar- days,” Magill said. ried in 1976 and divorced in 1982. Warner was a centrist Republi- Taylor wrote later that they re- can and a courtly figure whose mar- mained friends, but she “just riage to movie star Elizabeth Taylor couldn’t bear the intense loneli- drew huge crowds when he was ness” when he became engrossed in PAGE 8 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 NATION NY seats new grand jury in Trump probe

BY MICHAEL R. SISAK reported by The Washington Post. donation he made to qualify for an income tax cutors," Trump said in a statement. Associated Press Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance deduction; and tax write-offs his company Vance’s office declined to comment. NEW YORK — New York prosecutors Jr. is conducting a wide-ranging investiga- claimed on millions of dollars in consulting The new grand jury is the latest sign of in- have convened a special grand jury to consid- tion into a variety of matters such as hush- fees it paid. creasing momentum in the criminal investi- er evidence in a criminal investigation into money payments paid to women on Trump’s The new grand jury could eventually be gation into the Republican ex-president and former President Donald Trump's business behalf, property valuations and employee asked to consider returning indictments. his company, the Trump Organization. dealings, a person familiar with the matter compensation. While working on that case, it also will be Attorney General Letitia James said last told The Associated Press on Tuesday. The Democratic prosecutor has been us- hearing other matters. The Post reported week that she assigned two lawyers to work The development signals that the Manhat- ing an investigative grand jury through the that the grand jury will meet three days a with Vance’s office on the probe after her civ- tan district attorney’s office was moving to- course of his probe to issue subpoenas and week for six months. il investigation into Trump evolved into a ward seeking charges as a result of its two- obtain documents. That panel kept working Trump contends the investigation is a criminal matter. year investigation, which included a lengthy while other grand juries and court activities “witch hunt.” James, a Democrat, said her office also is legal battle to obtain Trump’s tax records. were shut down because of the coronavirus “This is purely political, and an affront to continuing its civil investigation into Trump. The person familiar with the matter was pandemic. the almost 75 million voters who supported She did not say what prompted her office to not authorized to speak publicly and did so on The investigation includes scrutiny of me in the Presidential Election, and it’s being expand its investigation into a criminal condition of anonymity. The news was first Trump’s relationship with his lenders; a land driven by highly partisan Democrat prose- probe. GOP leaders condemn Greene over remarks Associated Press terview, Greene excoriated safety WASHINGTON — Republican protocols adopted by House Dem- leaders forcefully condemned ocrats, including a requirement GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor that masks be worn on the House Greene on Tuesday, calling her floor. She also called House comments comparing COVID-19 Speaker Nancy Pelosi “mentally safety measures such as mask- ill” and suggested that the rules wearing to the treatment of Jews were comparable to the treatment in Nazi Germany “appalling.” of Jews during the Holocaust. “Marjorie is wrong, and her in- “You know, we can look back in tentional decision to compare the a time and history where people horrors of the Holocaust with were told to wear a gold star. And wearing masks is appalling,” they were definitely treated like House Republican leader Kevin second-class citizens, so much so McCarthy, R-Calif., said in a that they were put in trains and statement, which stopped short of taken to gas chambers in Nazi calling for Greene to face disci- Germany,” Greene said on the plinary measures. “The fact that podcast. “This is exactly the type this needs to be stated today is of abuse that Nancy Pelosi is talk- deeply troubling.” ing about.” Greene, a conservative fire- After her remarks sparked a brand from Georgia and ally of firestorm of online criticism, former President Donald Trump, Greene leaned in to the compari- has thrived on stirring controver- son further. sy, pushing conspiracy theories On Tuesday, she tweeted out a and forcefully confronting her news story about a grocery store colleagues since taking her seat in chain that plans to allow vaccinat- JABIN BOTSFORD / The Washington Post the House in January. But, until ed employees to go maskless. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R­Ga., walks out after a vote May 13. Republican leaders have condemned now, Republican leaders have Those who do would have a logo Greene comparing coronavirus safety requirements to the Holocaust. proven hesitant to criticize her on their name tags indicating they and refused to join with Demo- had been vaccinated. lutely outrageous and reprehensi- human atrocities ever commit- “change her rhetoric and behav- crats earlier this year when they “Vaccinated employees get a ble.” Still, he said any disciplinary ted.” ior if she intends to remain a voted to strip her of committee as- vaccination logo just like the Na- action against her would have to Democrats said Greene should Member of the House.” Pelosi, signments. zi’s forced Jewish people to wear come from the House. face more than just a public re- who previously suggested that Their rebuke Tuesday came af- a gold star,” Greene tweeted. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New buke. Greene could face an ethics inqui- ter Greene made an appearance Senate Minority Leader Mitch York, the No. 3 House GOP lead- Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill., ry, called her comments “so be- on a conservative podcast, “The McConnell, R-Ky., called er, said “equating mask wearing proposed censuring Greene. yond reprehensible” that they Water Cooler with David Brody,” Greene’s comments one of her and vaccines to the Holocaust” House Majority Leader Steny should have “no place in our released last Thursday. In her in- “frequent outbursts that are abso- minimized “the most significant Hoyer, D-Md., called on her to country.” Officials: Multiple deaths, injuries in shooting at Calif. railyard Associated Press describe how the suspect died. outdoors. He said the victims in- VTA Chairman Glenn Hendricks Rochelle Hawkins, who had called SAN JOSE, Calif. — Gunfire The shooting took place around clude Valley Transportation Au- told a news conference. him from a co-worker’s phone to erupted Wednesday at a railyard 6:30 a.m. at a light rail facility next thority employees. VTA trains were already out on assure him that she was safe. in San Jose, and a sheriff’s spokes- door to the sheriff’s department The VTA provides bus, light rail morning runs when the shooting When the shooting started, “she man said multiple people were and across a freeway from the air- and other transit services occurred. Light rail service was to got down with the rest of her cow- killed and wounded and that the port. The facility is a transit con- throughout Santa Clara County, be suspended at noon and re- orkers” and dropped her cell- suspect was dead. trol center that stores trains and the largest in the Bay Area and placed with bus bridges, Hen- phone, Michael Hawkins told the Santa Clara County sheriff’s has a maintenance yard. home to Silicon Valley. dricks said. newspaper. Rochelle Hawkins did spokesman Deputy Russell Davis Davis said he did not know the “A horrible tragedy has hap- Outside the scene, Michael not see the shooter, and she was said that he could not specify the type of weapon used or whether pened today, and our thoughts and Hawkins told The Mercury News not sure how close she had been to number of dead and wounded or the shooting happened indoors or love go out to the VTA family,” that he was waiting for his mother, the attacker, her son said. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 9 NATION Western US fire season starts drier than record 2020

Associated Press As bad as last year’s record- “It’s like having shattering fire season was, the western United States starts gasoline out this year’s in even worse shape. there.” The soil in the West is record Brian Steinhardt dry for this time of year. In much of the region, plants that Prescott and Coconino forest fire NAM Y. HUH/AP fuel fires are also the driest zone manager A woman holds a sign and attends a rally to support stop AAPI (Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders) hatescientists have seen. The vege- at the Logan Square Monument in Chicago in March. tation is primed to ignite, espe- ing extreme or exceptional cially in the Southwest where drought. Now, more than 73% dead juniper trees are full of is, according to the National flammable needles. Drought Monitor, which is More Americans feel anti-Asian “It’s like having gasoline out based on precipitation, tem- there,” said Brian Steinhardt, perature, soil moisture and hatred has risen over past year forest fire zone manager for streamflow measurements. A Prescott and Coconino nation- year ago, heading into the re- Associated Press Asian Americans say they feel un- facing any kind of discrimination al forests in Arizona. cord-smashing 2020 fire year WASHINGTON — A majority of safe in public because of their race. because I happen to think they’re A climate change-fueled when more than 4% of Califor- Americans across racial and eth- Susan Lee, of Sacramento, Calif., very well educated — most of them megadrought of more than 20 nia burned, just 3% of the state nic groups believe discrimination said friends initiated conversa- — and they don’t face that much years is making conditions that was in extreme or exceptional has worsened in the last year tions with her about racism as ran- scrutiny,” Canchola said. “Howev- lead to fire even more danger- drought. against Asian Americans, who be- dom attacks on Asians became er, ever since the pandemic began ous, scientists said. Rainfall in But the outlook is worse came the target of attacks after be- more frequent, but the 72-year-old and it was a labeled a ‘China thing,’ the Rockies and farther west elsewhere. ing unfairly blamed for the corona- Chinese American noted a key dif- that’s where it all began.” was the second-lowest on re- “I think the Southwest is re- virus pandemic. ference between friends who were She attributes her new outlook to cord in April, according to the ally primed for a bad fire sea- A poll from The Associated Asian and non-Asian. all the television coverage “where National Oceanic and Atmo- son,” University of Utah fire Press-NORC Center for Public Af- “My non-Asian friends are prob- the people are being assaulted on spheric Administration. scientist Phil Dennison said. fairs Research finds 60% of Amer- ably more astonished that this is the street out of the blue.” “It means that the dice are That’s because last year’s nor- icans say discrimination against occurring,” Lee said. “I think Chi- Renee Tajima-Pena, an Asian loaded toward a lot of forest mal monsoon season, which Asian Americans has swelled com- nese or ‘Asians’ have always been American Studies professor at the fire this year,” said Park Wil- brings much of the year’s rain- pared with a year ago, including looked at as a positive asset. I think University of California, Los An- liams, a UCLA climate and fire fall, never showed up. 71% of Asian Americans, 66% of they are puzzled by that situation.” geles and co-producer of the PBS scientist, who calculated that A year ago, none of Arizona, Black Americans, 59% of white Barbara Canchola, 76, of El Pa- docuseries “Asian Americans,” soil in the western half of the Nevada and Utah was in ex- Americans and 55% of Hispanic so, Texas, said she would have an- isn’t surprised some people have nation is the driest it has been treme or exceptional drought, Americans. swered “not at all” if she had been never thought of Asian Americans since 1895. “This summer, but now, more than 90% of Nearly half of Americans be- asked pre-pandemic if Asian as victims. The dominant narrative we’re going into fire season Utah, 86% of Arizona and 75% lieve Asian Americans encounter Americans face racism. Canchola, has always been they are success- with drier fuels than we were of Nevada is in those highest “a great deal” or “quite a lot” of dis- who identifies as Hispanic, said ful, don’t speak up and, therefore, at this time last year.” drought categories, according crimination in the United States to- she associated anti-Asian discrimi- encounter little racism. In addition, the western to the drought monitor. New day. The poll also finds about 6 in 10 nation as something way in the past “The model minority myth is drought is deepening week by Mexico jumped from 4% ex- Americans say racism in the U.S. in like Japanese American intern- such a drug for Americans,” Taji- week. treme or exceptional drought a general is a “very” or “extremely” ment camps during World War II. ma-Pena said. In late March, less than one- year ago to more than 77% serious problem. And a majority of “I really wouldn’t think they are third of California was suffer- now. Wolves scare deer and reduce auto collisions 24%, study says BY CHRISTINA LARSON They found it created what scien- pipelines and stream beds. Deer “Most economic studies of ways the wolves impacted the re- Associated Press tists call “a landscape of fear.” learn this and can adapt by staying wolves have been negative, focus- gion,” Raynor said. “These auto WASHINGTON — Ecologist “In a pretty short period of time, away.” ing on livestock losses,” said Dave collisions are happening, or not Rolf Peterson remembers driving once wolves colonize a county, Gray wolves, among the first Mech, a senior research scientist happening, in rural areas, and so remote stretches of road in Michi- deer vehicle collisions go down species protected under the En- for the U.S. Geological Survey in are livestock damages.” gan’s Upper Peninsula and seeing about 24%,” said Dominic Parker, dangered Species Act in 1973, Minnesota, who was not involved Peterson, who was not involved areas strewn with deer carcasses. a natural resources economist at were reintroduced to Yellowstone in the new study and praised it. in the research, also said, “If any- But that changed after gray the University of Wisconsin, Ma- National Park in 1995. But in other “But wolves also reshape ecosys- thing, the researchers underesti- wolves arrived in the region from dison and co-author of their new regions of the United States, gray tems in many ways, although mated the value of the deer-vehi- Canada and Minnesota. study published Monday in the wolves have dispersed naturally; that’s hard to measure econom- cle crashes. The deeper dimen- “When wolves moved in during journal Proceedings of the Nation- the population in the lower 48 ically.” sion of these collision costs can in- the 1990s and 2000s, the deer-ve- al Academy of Sciences. states now totals about 5,500. Some studies have looked at tou- clude large medical bills and, hicle collisions went way down,” Both the thinning of the deer The new study said that the rism revenue generated by wolf- sometimes, human fatalities.” said the Michigan Tech research- population by wolves and behav- presence of wolves, maligned by watchers in Yellowstone, but that The wolf study “adds to growing er. ior changes in fearful deer are fac- ranchers whose livestock suffers money doesn’t flow directly to awareness that scientists should Recently, another team of scien- tors in the drop-off, Parker said. predation, can also save money by communities living alongside consider both the costs and the tists has gathered data about road “When you have a major preda- indirectly reducing deer-vehicle wolves, said Jennifer Raynor, a benefits of having large carni- collisions and wolf movements in tor around, it impacts how the collisions. In 2008, a study for the natural resources economist at vores on the landscape,” said Wisconsin to quantify how the ar- prey behave,” he said. “Wolves U.S. Department of Transporta- Wesleyan University and a co-au- Adrian Treves, a University of rival of wolves there affected the use linear features of a landscape tion estimated that those crashes thor of the new study. Wisconsin conservation biologist frequency of deer-auto collisions. as travel corridors, like roads, cost more than $8 billion annually. “We wanted to look at other not involved in the study. PAGE 10 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 NATION Rallies, moments of silence honor Floyd a year later

Associated Press running for cover as shots rang MINNEAPOLIS — A family- out. Police said a man, who they friendly street festival, musical believe was injured in the shoot- performances and moments of si- ing, went to a nearby hospital with lence were held Tuesday to honor a gunshot wound. Police said he George Floyd and mark the year was in critical condition but was since he died at the hands of Min- expected to survive. There were neapolis police, a death captured no immediate arrests. on wrenching bystander video Philip Crowther, a reporter that galvanized the racial justice working for AP Global Media Ser- movement and continues to bring vices, which provides live video calls for change. coverage, reported hearing as Floyd’s sister Bridgett and oth- many as 30 gunshots about a block er family members held a mo- from the intersection. Crowther ment of silence at a “Celebration said a storefront window ap- CHRISTIAN MONTERROSA/AP of Life” event at a downtown Min- peared to have been broken by The family of Daunte Wright, who was killed by a police officer in the Minneapolis suburb of Brooklyn neapolis park that included mu- gunshots. Center last month, gathers on the one­year anniversary of George Floyd’s death Tuesday in Minneapolis. sic, food trucks, an inflatable “Very quickly things got back to bouncy house and a vaccination normal,” Crowther said. “People structed earlier this year to house mosphere, “For all this a Black ing Act and get it to his desk. stand. A few miles away, at the here who spend a significant flowers left by mourners. Nearby, man had to die, so that’s really un- “We have to act,” he said of the site of the intersection where amount of time, the organizers, a brass band played for passersby. fortunate.” legislation that would ban choke- Floyd died, dozens of people were running around asking, The celebration also included a In New York City, elected offi- holds and no-knock police raids, kneeled around a steel fist sculp- ‘Does anyone need a medic?’ ” candlelight vigil, capping several cials, including Mayor Bill de Bla- as well as create a national regis- ture for several minutes — sym- Like other major cities, Min- days of marches, rallies and panel sio and U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jef- try for officers disciplined for se- bolizing the 9 minutes, 29 seconds neapolis has been struggling with discussions about his death and fries, joined the Rev. Al Sharpton rious misconduct. during which Floyd was pinned rising gun violence, a problem confronting racial discrimination. in kneeling for 9 minutes, 29 sec- Also on Tuesday, the White down. made worse, in part, by many offi- Xavier Simmons, 24, from Rac- onds. House said that Biden would be “It’s been a troubling year, a cers leaving the embattled force ine, Wis., chanted “Say his name!” “As we took a knee, imagine visiting Tulsa, Okla., on June 1 to long year,” Bridgett Floyd told the since Floyd’s death. A 6-year-old as people kneeled. Simmons said how long that was on a human be- commemorate the 100th anniver- crowd downtown. “But we made girl was fatally shot and two other he hopes people taking part in the ing’s neck,” Sharpton said. “Never sary of the 1921 massacre that it. ... The love is here. George is children wounded in recent festivities will both honor Floyd’s switched knees, just dug in. It’s claimed up to hundreds of lives in here.” weeks. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob life and legacy and continue to time we correct policing in this the city. Other members of Floyd’s fam- Frey last week unveiled sweeping “uplift and empower this move- country.” Floyd’s brother Philonise told ily met in Washington with Presi- public safety proposals aimed at ment.” On Tuesday evening, activists CNN he thinks about George “all dent Joe Biden and Vice President fixing the problem. Other groups “We got the verdict that we and demonstrators gathered with the time.” Kamala Harris, who urged Con- are pursuing a more radical re- needed, but it’s never going to some families of people who had “My sister called me at 12 gress to quickly pass a law in making of the police department. change until we make a change,” died in interactions with the New o’clock last night and said, ‘This is Floyd’s name that would bring The intersection of 38th and he said. York Police Department at Bar- the day our brother left us,’ ” he changes to policing. A moment of Chicago has been barricaded “Y’all keep doing the work, be- clays Center in Brooklyn. They said, adding, “I think things have silence to honor Floyd was also since soon after Floyd’s death. It cause y’all changing the world,” called for defunding the police, changed. I think it is moving slow- held in New York and a rally was quickly turned into a memorial — Common, an award-winning rap- holding officers accountable and ly, but we are making progress.” held in Los Angeles. Globally, a and also a challenging spot for the per, actor and activist, told the removing police officers from Separately, the Floyd family an- rally took place in Germany and city, with police officers not al- crowd of hundreds during a musi- schools. Following the rally, they nounced the launch of a fund that Floyd’s death was marked by U.S. ways welcome. cal performance Tuesday night set off on a march through Brook- will make grants to businesses embassies in Greece and Spain. The square was transformed prior to the vigil. lyn streets. and community organizations in Hours before the Minneapolis Tuesday into an outdoor festival, After Common left the stage Several Floyd family members, the neighborhood, as well as festivities, the intersection where with food, children’s activities and and day turned to night in George including his young daughter broader grants “encouraging the Floyd died was disrupted by gun- music. At times, people danced in Floyd Square, people placed can- Gianna, met with Biden and Har- success and growth of Black citi- fire. the street. Artwork and signs from dles in every conceivable corner, ris earlier Tuesday. Biden, who zens and community harmony.” Associated Press video from protests after Floyd’s death also lighting up the area. previously pledged to continue The money comes from $500,000 38th Street and Chicago Avenue were on display. One group hosted Earl Vaughn, 20, of Minneapo- fighting for racial justice, said he earmarked as part of the city’s $27 — informally known as George an open mic next to a greenhouse lis, attended the downtown event hopes the Senate can quickly pass million civil settlement for the Floyd Square — showed people that community members con- and said despite its celebratory at- the George Floyd Justice in Polic- Floyd family. La. governor criticizes police in deadly arrest of Black man Associated Press turbed had I thought it was pro- just in custody but was re- The Associated Press began pub- “It is regrettable, it is unfortu- NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana fessional, had I thought those of- strained,” he added of the troop- lishing previously unreleased nate,” Edwards said, adding, “we Gov. John Bel Edwards on Tues- ficers had performed as they ers involved. “They were not pro- body-camera footage that have implemented a number of day denounced the deadly 2019 should — they did not,” Edwards fessional. They did not conduct showed troopers converging on changes with the goal of making arrest of Ronald Greene as “re- told reporters at the state Capitol themselves as a law enforcement Greene’s car outside Monroe, sure this does not happen again.” grettable,” criticizing the state in Baton Rouge, offering his most officer should, and quite frankly La., after a high-speed chase, re- Col. Lamar Davis, the state po- troopers who repeatedly extensive remarks yet on the con- I’m disappointed in officers who peatedly jolting the 49-year-old lice superintendent, said last stunned, choked and punched the troversy. were on the scene who didn’t in- unarmed man with stun guns, week that the agency had limited Black motorist, and also chiding “They don’t represent what we tervene as well. That evidences a putting him in a chokehold, the use of chokeholds and stun officers who stood by but failed to aspire to in the state of Louisiana, lack of professionalism also.” punching him in the head and guns and installed new leader- intervene. at the Louisiana State Police, es- The Democratic governor’s re- dragging him by his ankle shack- ship in the Monroe area after “I wouldn’t have been dis- pecially once Mr. Greene was not marks came nearly a week after les. Greene’s death. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 11 AMERICAN ROUNDUP

Vegas chapel offers free nuptials for military LAS VEGAS — A Las NV Vegas chapel plans to honor the military on Memorial Day by offering a chance to say “I do.” KVVU-TV reported that the Lit- tle Vegas Chapel is offering wed- dings free of charge Monday for active-duty officers. The chapel is waiving the cost of a $129 wedding package which in- cludes a photographer, marriage license and up to five guests. Sol- diers can also apply a $129 credit to another package. Any interested officers must show proof of their active military status. Parents criticize altering yearbook photos ST. JOHNS — Parents FL and students are criti- cizing teachers at a Florida high school for digitally altering photos in a yearbook in order to cover up students whose clothes the school officials deemed too immodest. The St. Augustine Record reported that 80 students at Bar- tram Trail High School in north- east Florida had their yearbook photos altered without their con- sent in order to cover up exposed shoulders and low necklines. The school’s yearbook coordi- nator, who is a teacher, decided that the photos were out of dress JACOB FORD, ODESSA (TEXAS) AMERICAN/AP code and did some of the editing, said Christina Langston, school district spokeswoman. Big wheels keep on turning The school is offering yearbook University of Texas of the Permian Basin’s STEM Academy second grader William Woosley, 8, rolls a tire in a race against Izabella Phillips, 8, refunds to anyone who complains during an elementary school field day at UTPB Park in Odessa, Texas. Activities included a water relay, chicken toss, 50m dash and bounce house. about the changes and wants to turn in their yearbook, the schools sengers. THE CENSUS building fire found the strip mall spokeswoman said. “Unfortunately, this is just one in Solomons ablaze. Fire depart- of many occurrences,” said the The approximate number of pigs a truck was carrying when it ments from Calvert, St. Mary’s Woman bit by snake, union president, Lyn Montgom- 160 overturned in Virginia. According to Suffolk, Va., police, the and Charles counties responded falls off ladder ery. She said there were 477 inci- tractor-trailer was carrying 160 to 180 pigs and was the only vehicle involved in to bring the fire under control, of- dents of “misconduct” by passen- the early morning accident. Police said the driver of the truck had minor injuries ficials said. MOORESVILLE — A gers on Southwest planes between and was cited at the scene for failure to maintain proper control. Police did not Solomons Veterinary Medical NC North Carolina woman April 8 and May 15. comment on the condition of the pigs. Center was one of the businesses is recovering from a fall off a lad- “The passenger repeatedly ig- affected by the fire. der prompted by a surprise snake nored standard inflight instruc- them to throw away,” she said. for a year. Firefighters were able to rescue bite. tions and became verbally and “One evening, I was going The city had asked on Twitter two pets and no injuries were re- Heatherly Noble was trimming physically abusive upon landing,” through the tickets from the trash for help identifying the culprit. ported, officials said. hedges outside the front door of said Southwest spokesman Chris and found out that she didn’t Within a couple hours, the city her Mooresville home when a Mainz. He said police were asked scratch the number,” Abhi Shah, said it had found the man with 150 Alligator hunting season non-venomous black racer to meet the plane when it arrived the son of the store’s owners told followers on TikTok who posted to open in August emerged from the bush and bit in San Diego, and the passenger WWLP-TV. “I scratched the num- the videos after several people her, news outlets reported. was taken into custody. ber and it was $1 million under- identified him. JACKSON — The She said she didn’t realize what neath the ticket.” City officials didn’t identify the MS Mississippi Depart- caused the pain in her right hand Woman gets back thrown Fiega is a regular customer, so offender publicly but they said he ment of Wildlife, Fisheries and at first but looked down to see the out $1M lottery ticket the family knew immediately who would receive a notice about the Parks announced the 2021 Public snake “rising up out of the bushes had discarded it. ban that extends to May 21, 2022. Waters Alligator Hunting Season like some sort of demon,” she told SOUTHWICK — A The store gets a $10,000 bonus The rules violations document- will open Aug. 27 and run through the Winston-Salem Journal. MA Massachusetts wom- from the state lottery commission ed on the social media site includ- Sept. 6. Footage from a home security an who accidentally tossed out a $1 for selling the winning ticket. Fiega ed destroying parks department The application process for the camera shows the snake lunged at million lottery ticket eventually said she gave the family an addi- property, disturbing wildlife and 960 available permits will run Noble again, causing her to fall to collected her winnings thanks to tional reward. She’s saving the possessing alcohol, according to from June 1 through June 8, avoid a second bite. the kindness and honesty of the rest for retirement. The Wichita Eagle. WJTV-TV reported. Permits are owners of the store where she limited by a random drawing and Attendant loses 2 teeth bought it. Man banned from parks 2 pets rescued amid an electronic application is re- in assault by passenger Lea Rose Fiega bought the $30 after videos of misconduct blaze at strip mall quired. Diamond Millions scratch-off tick- The first drawing will take DALLAS — A South- et in March at the Lucky Stop con- WICHITA — Someone SOLOMONS — Two place June 14. Any unpurchased TX west Airlines flight at- venience store in Southwick near KS who posted videos on MD pets were saved from permits from the first drawing tendant was assaulted by a pas- where she works. TikTok showing a golf cart run- a veterinary medical center when will be entered in a second draw- senger and lost two teeth in the at- “I was in a hurry, on lunch break, ning over a sign on a Wichita golf a fire broke out at a southern Ma- ing of remaining available appli- tack, according to a union presi- and just scratched it real quick, course and a person chasing geese ryland strip mall, State Fire Mar- cants. dent, who complained to the and looked at it, and it didn’t look from a golf cart has been banned shals said. airline’s CEO about unruly pas- like a winner, so I handed it over to from all of the city’s park facilities Firefighters dispatched for a From The Associated Press PAGE 12 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 WORLD Blinken arrives in Egypt to shore up Gaza cease-fire

Associated Press day. CAIRO — U.S. Secretary of Egypt maintains ties with Ha- State Antony Blinken arrived in mas, but also enforces a tight Egypt on Wednesday as he blockade on Gaza, along with Is- pressed ahead with a diplomatic rael, with a shared goal of prevent- mission aimed at shoring up a ing the Islamic group from arming. cease-fire that ended an 11-day Blinken has set modest goals for war between Israel and the Gaza the trip, his first official visit to the Strip’s ruling Hamas militant Middle East as secretary of state. group. The stop in Cairo, along with Presi- Blinken landed in Cairo a day af- dent Joe Biden’s phone talks with ter holding intensive talks with Is- el-Sissi while the cease-fire was HADI MIZBAN/AP raeli and Palestinian leaders. In being negotiated last week, signal Security forces try to disperse anti­government protesters in Tahrir Square in Baghdad on Tuesday. Egypt, he met with President Ab- a closer relationship between the del-Fattah el-Sissi and other top of- Biden administration and Egypt ficials. Later he was to travel to after a cooler beginning, when it Jordan to meet with King Abdul- expressed concern over el-Sissi’s At least 1 is killed as protesters lah II. human rights record. Blinken has vowed to “rally in- During talks with Israeli and scuffle with Iraqi security forces ternational support” to rebuild the Palestinian leaders on Tuesday, he destruction in hard-hit Gaza while made clear that the U.S. has no im- Associated Press in a hospital and over a dozen were ing Dhi Qar and Karbala. Ten- promising to make sure that no mediate plans to pursue peace BAGHDAD — Clashes between injured, a security official and the sions there have mounted in re- none of the aid reaches Hamas. He talks between the sides, though he security forces and protesters left semi-official High Commission cent weeks over the increasingly is instead trying to bolster Hamas’ expressed hope for creating a “bet- one person dead and over a dozen for Human Rights said. frequent targeted killings. rival, the internationally recog- ter environment” that might lead injured Tuesday after hundreds of The security officials spoke on “Today’s protests took place be- nized Palestinian Authority. to negotiations. Iraqis took to the streets in Bagh- condition of anonymity in line cause the weak government did Blinken described Egypt and That could begin with the Gaza dad to protest a rise in targeted with regulations. not keep its promises to bring the Jordan as central players in trying reconstruction effort. The 11-day killings of prominent activists and The shooting began after secu- murderers to justice,” said activist to bring calm to the region. Both war killed more than 250 people, journalists. rity forces first used tear gas to Kamal Jaban at Tahrir Square. countries are key U.S. allies that mostly Palestinians, and caused Violence erupted near Tahrir disperse the crowds. The demon- Many waved Iraqi flags and have peace agreements with Israel heavy destruction in the impover- Square in the early evening fol- strators responded by throwing raised portraits of Ehab Wazni, a and frequently serve as mediators ished coastal territory. Prelimina- lowing a largely peaceful demon- stones, and on some occasions prominent activist assassinated in between Israel and the Palesti- ry estimates have put the damage stration. Iraqi security forces bricks, at police, according to an Karbala, among three targeted nians. in the hundreds of millions of dol- fired tear gas and live rounds to Associated Press videographer on killings this month alone. Protes- “Egypt played a critical role in lars. disperse the crowds and demon- the scene. ters had given the government two helping to broker the cease-fire Ahmed Aboul Gheit, secretary- strators hurled stones at riot po- Earlier, demonstrators gath- weeks to hold his killers respon- and Jordan has long been a voice general of the Arab League, said lice, witnesses and Iraqi security ered in the square amid heavy se- sible. for peace and stability in the re- U.S. commitment is critical for the officials said. curity, among them protesters “The government did not deliv- gion,” he told reporters late Tues- region. One protester was shot and died from southern provinces includ- er, we had to march,” said Jaban. Belarusian leader defends diversion of flight that sparked fury Associated Press Lukashenko maintained his conten- “I acted in a lawful way, protect- to protect people, I was thinking larus’ airspace. They agreed to draft KYIV, Ukraine — Belarus’ au- tion that there was a bomb threat ing people in line with international about the country’s security,” he more sanctions on officials linked to thoritarian president defended against the Ryanair flight and called rules,” said 66-year-old Lukashen- said. the diversion and ones targeting Wednesday his decision to tell a pas- it an “absolute lie” that a fighter jet ko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet na- But European Union leaders have businesses that are the main cash senger jet to land in his country and he scrambled was forcing the pas- tion with an iron fist for more than a denounced the move to divert the earners for Lukashenko’s regime. accused European leaders of wag- senger plane to land in Minsk. The quarter-century, relentlessly sti- plane — which was traveling be- Lukashenko derided that re- ing a “hybrid war” to “strangle” his carrier has said its crew was in- fling dissent. tween two EU countries and being sponse. nation by ordering up new sanctions structed to land. The plane was He doubled down on the idea that operated by an airline based in a “Our ill-wishers outside and in- for diverting the flight and arresting searched once on the ground, and no there was a grave security risk, say- third — as an act of piracy. They side the country have changed their an opposition journalist who was bomb was found — but Raman Pra- ing the plane was flying not far away quickly agreed to ban Belarusian methods of attacking the state,” Lu- aboard. tasevich, a 26-year-old journalist from the Astravets nuclear power airlines from using the airspace and kashenko said. “That’s why they Speaking before lawmakers and and activist, and his Russian girlf- plant and adding that he ordered air airports of the 27-nation bloc and switched from organizing riots to top officials, President Alexander riend were detained. defense systems on high alert. “I had urged European airlines to avoid Be- trying to strangle us.” Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 13 WORLD Cyclone lashes India, Bangladesh after 1.1M evacuated Associated Press canceled. Fishing trawlers and NEW DELHI — Heavy rain and boats were told to take shelter. a high tide lashed parts of eastern The cyclone, coming amid a India and neighboring Bangla- coronavirus surge, complicates desh as a cyclone pushed ashore India’s efforts to deal with both af- Wednesday in an area where ter another storm, Cyclone Tauk- more than 1.1 million people have tae, hit India’s west coast last week evacuated during a devastating and killed more than 140 people. coronavirus surge. Odisha’s chief minister, Naveen Cyclone Yaas already had Patnaik, appealed to people in caused two deaths and damaged shelters to wear double masks and homes as heavy rains pounded maintain social distancing. Odisha and West Bengal states be- “We have to face both the chal- fore the storm began making land- lenges simultaneously,” Patnaik fall in the late morning. said. The “very severe cyclonic Thousands of emergency per- storm” is packing sustained winds sonnel have been deployed to help of up to 87 mph and gusts up to 97 with evacuations and rescue oper- mph, the India Meteorological De- ASHIM PAUL/AP ations, said S.N. Pradhan, director partment said. With the storm A cow runs through high tide water at the Digha beach on the Bay of Bengal coast as Cyclone Yaas of India’s National Disaster Re- now almost fully on land, winds intensifies in West Bengal state, India, on Wednesday. sponse Force. The air force and are expected to weaken by navy were also on standby. Wednesday evening. said Mashfaqur Rahman, the ar- flowing water breached several two people and damaged 40 A year ago, the most powerful In Bangladesh, thousands of ea’s top administrator. He said at river banks. houses, Banerjee said. cyclone in more than a decade hit people in 200 villages were ma- least 15,000 people had taken ref- West Bengal state’s top elected More than 6.5 inches of rain fell eastern India and killed nearly 100 rooned as their homes, shops and uge in cyclone shelters. official, Mamata Banerjee, told re- in Chandabali and Paradip re- people. farms were flooded by tidal surg- In India, television images porters that 20,000 mud huts and gions of Odisha state since Tues- “We haven’t been able to fix the es. showed knee-deep water flooding temporary shelters for the poor day, the meteorological depart- damage to our home from the last In southern Patuakhali district, the beachfront and other areas of have been damaged along the ment said. Tidal waves of up to 13 cyclone. Now another cyclone is more than 20 villages in Rangabali Digha, a resort town in West Ben- coast. feet were forecast. coming, how will we stay here?” went underwater after two river gal. Wind gusts whipped palm On Tuesday, a tornado snapped Kolkata and Bhubaneshwar air- said Samitri, who uses only one embankments were washed away, trees back and forth, and over- electricity lines that electrocuted ports were shut and train services name. PAGE 14 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 OPINION

Max D. Lederer Jr., Publisher Lt. Col. Marci Hoffman, Europe commander Lt. Col. Richard McClintic, Pacific commander The barrier of fear is breaking in Belarus BY DAVID IGNATIUS streets, waving the red-and-white banner of from Foreign Ministry spokesman Maria Washington Post Writers Group the opposition. Huge crowds of Belarusian Zakharova was cynical — but essential read- EDITORIAL WASHINGTON patriots faced down the security forces, ing. “It is shocking that the West calls the in- Terry Leonard, Editor he skyjacking of a dissident jour- chanting “Stop the cockroach!” Lukashenko cident in Belarusian airspace ‘shocking,’ ” [email protected] nalist over Belarus on Sunday was a arrested an estimated 35,000 people. she wrote on Facebook. She cited the forced brutal action with a simple mess- The protests continued, but more carefully. landing in Austria in 2013 of a Bolivian jet Robert H. Reid, Senior Managing Editor age to opponents of dictatorial Displaying the opposition’s colors in the thought to be carrying NSA leaker Edward [email protected] T President Alexander Lukashenko: We can get streets could mean immediate arrest, so Bela- Snowden. She could have mentioned other Tina Croley, Managing Editor for Content you anywhere. rusians began hanging their laundry in red- cases where the U.S. tried to force down other [email protected] Are the thugs winning? Sometimes, it may and-white patterns or wearing red-and-white civilian flights that were believed to be carry- Sean Moores, Managing Editor for Presentation appear so, but I’d draw a different lesson from socks. Dissident journalist Ihar Losik had ing terrorists. [email protected] Sunday’s forced landing of a Ryanair flight in been arrested in June 2020, but Protasevich There’s a battle taking place around the Minsk and the imprisonment there of journal- continued a blog called Nexta on the encrypt- world between autocratic leaders and young Joe Gromelski, Managing Editor for Digital ist Roman Protasevich. Even against such ed social media app Telegram. The KGB beat activists who want the freedom to speak free- [email protected] outrageous intimidation, the barrier of fear is and arrested people, but thejournalists and ly. You can see it in Russia, China, Turkey, breaking in Belarus. The thugs are getting their followers continued to share the truth. Saudi Arabia, Egypt — and scores of other BUREAU STAFF desperate. The opposition persists — and af- That’s what led to Sunday’s appalling diver- countries, most definitely including Belarus. ter Sunday’s crude assault, it may grow. sion of the Ryanair jet and Protasevich’s ar- The Biden administration sees this as a Europe/Mideast The European Union responded with tough rest when he landed. The autocratic rulers fight to maintain a rules-based order, instead Erik Slavin, Europe & Mideast Bureau Chief [email protected] sanctions a day after the Ryanair plane was couldn’t find any other way. It’s the same ba- of lawless thugocracy. But if it wants to lead +49(0)631.3615.9350; DSN (314)583.9350 forced down, beginning a process that will sic story as the October 2018 murder of dis- this campaign, the United States can’t be hyp- Pacific probably block EU air travel to and from Be- sident Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a ocritical. Every bad thing we do as a nation Aaron Kidd, Pacific Bureau Chief larus. The Belarusian dictator, derided by the Washington Post contributing columnist, by a gets copied by nations with fewer scruples. [email protected] opposition as “the cockroach” after clinging hit team approved by Crown Prince Mo- America wages drone warfare against al-Qia- +81.42.552.2511 ext. 88380; DSN (315)227.7380 to power since 1994, is more isolated. Even hammed bin Salman. Who appears desperate da; Azerbaijan wages it against Armenian Washington Russian President Vladimir Putin is said to and frightened in these attacks? It’s the thugs, fighters in Nagorno-Karabakh; America con- Joseph Cacchioli, Washington Bureau Chief dislike him. who can’t stop dissenters except by kidnap- ducts “extraordinary rendition” of terrorist [email protected] The persistent protests in Belarus get little ping them. suspects; Saudi Arabia and Belarus kidnap or (+1)(202)886-0033 Brian Bowers, Assistant Managing Editor, News attention, but they’re inspiring. Dissident Protasevich didn’t get on that flight from murder dissenting journalists. [email protected] blogger Sergei Tikhanovsky announced a Athens, Greece, to Vilnius, Lithuania, intend- President Joe Biden wants to contest the year ago that he planned to challenge Lukash- ing to be a martyr. He was a journalist living in authoritarians without a new Cold War. He CIRCULATION enko in last August’s presidential elections. exile, traveling from one EU city to another. will set the stage when he meets Putin on June When he was arrested two days later, his wife, But he was persisting in his job of running his 16 in Geneva. Diplomatic sources say he wise- Mideast Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, stepped up and ran news channel, despite the wave of arrests ly dispensed with some baggage last week by Robert Reismann, Mideast Circulation Manager [email protected] on her own. back home. quietly granting a 90-day waiver on sanctions [email protected] Tikhanovskaya ran a rousing campaign One American who has met with Protasev- that otherwise would have been imposed DSN (314)583-9111 and claimed she won in August with 60% to ich recently explained: “What I took away is against German companies for violating a Europe 70% of the vote. Lukashenko, the perennial in- that he is committed to the integrity of the ban on aiding Russia’s Nord Stream pipeline. Karen Lewis, Community Engagement Manager cumbent, insisted he had triumphed by 80% journalistic profession. He’s willing to work in Better to keep the focus on our adversaries, [email protected] and promptly arrested all the members of the the most dire situation. This isn’t just a hobby rather than picking a fight with Germany, a [email protected] +49(0)631.3615.9090; DSN (314)583.9090 coordination council the opposition had for him. It’s a mission to provide information faithful ally. Here’s a suggestion for Biden formed to manage the transfer of power. direct to the people.” when he meets Putin. Wear red and white Pacific The protests began, tens of thousands in the The Russian response to the skyjacking socks, as a reminder of which side he’s on. Mari Mori, [email protected] +81-3 6385.3171; DSN (315)227.7333 CONTACT US Washington South Korea and the US: A hero’s example tel: (+1)202.886.0003 BY ARTHUR I. CYR In late 1950, enormous numbers of the Honor ceremony. 633 3rd St. NW, Suite 116, Washington, DC 20001-3050 Special to Stars and Stripes People’s Liberation Army of China inter- Holding the ceremony during Moon’s vis- Reader letters hy all the fuss?” vened. The offensive surprised U.N. com- it is admirable. That war forged the impor- [email protected] That is how retired mander Gen. Douglas MacArthur and staff, tant, enduring alliance between our two Additional contacts U.S. Army Col. Ralph and serious reversals followed. peoples. The Korean War also transformed stripes.com/contactus “W Puckett reacted when This was the situation on the ground the Cold War to a broadly global conflict. he learned he was to receive the Medal of when young 1st Lt. Puckett, in command of As a very young man, Moon’s political ac- OMBUDSMAN Honor for his extraordinary bravery and ef- the Eighth Army Ranger Company, was or- tivism led to arrest and imprisonment. The Ernie Gates fectiveness in combat during the Korean dered to occupy Hill 205. They secured the dictatorship of Park Chung-hee was merci- War. The modesty befits the man, and re- strategically important high ground but less in punishing dissidence of any kind. Re- The Stars and Stripes ombudsman protects the free flow flects his selflessness, a distinctive human were under heavy fire, and cut off. flecting that experience, he decided to pur- of news and information, reporting any attempts by the military or other authorities to undermine the newspaper’s virtue. Puckett’s leadership proved vital. He re- sue a career as a human rights lawyer. independence. The ombudsman also responds to concerns Memorial Day is a fitting time to honor peatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in This commitment to political activism and questions from readers, and monitors coverage for fairness, accuracy, timeliness and balance. The ombudsman him, along with the men and women in our order to survey terrain and protect his men. was balanced by dedication to military ser- welcomes comments from readers, and can be contacted by military who gave their lives. This special The Rangers held the hill against five vice, going beyond what is required of email at [email protected], or by phone at 202.886.0003. day originated shortly after our Civil War as massive human wave attacks. Puckett ulti- young men of military age in South Korea. Decoration Day. mately ordered his men to retreat from Moon also served in the Republic of Korea Stars and Stripes (USPS 0417900) is published week- From the beginning, parades have been what had become an untenable position. (South Korea) Army. He joined the Special days (except Dec. 25 and Jan. 1) for 50 cents Monday through Thursday and for $1 on Friday by Pacific Stars and an important feature. From ancient times, Badly wounded, he told his men to leave Forces, and saw action in the DMZ (Demili- Stripes, Unit 45002, APO AP 96301-5002. Periodicals surviving warriors are viewed as closely as- him. They refused to do so. For his actions in tarized Zone) along the 38th Parallel that di- postage paid at San Francisco, CA, Postmaster: Send address changes to Pacific Stars and Stripes, Unit 45002, sociated with comrades who died. that battle, he received the Distinguished vides North and South Korea. APO AP 96301-5002. This newspaper is authorized by the Col. Puckett may not be a “household Service Cross, which has now been upgrad- South Korea maintained 50,000 troops in Department of Defense for members of the military services overseas. However, the contents of Stars and Stripes are name” across America, but he is a legend- ed to the Medal of Honor. South Vietnam during our long war there. unofficial, and are not to be considered as the official views ary and inspirational figure within the U.S. During the Vietnam War, Puckett again They reciprocated American help during of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government. As a DOD newspa- per, Stars and Stripes may be distributed through official Army. His extraordinary career highlights served in combat in command. He dis- the Korean War. channels and use appropriated funds for distribution to the strong dedication military service can played comparable courage and leader- Memorial Day is also an appropriate time remote locations where overseas DOD personnel are located. The appearance of advertising in this publication does develop, in distinctive ways. ship. to reflect on the importance of those close not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or The Korean War began in late June 1950 On May 21, President Joe Biden awarded allies who aid us, in war and in peace. Stars and Stripes of the products or services advertised. Products or services advertised shall be made available for when North Korean forces invaded South Puckett the Medal of Honor at a ceremony Learn More: Ralph Puckett, “Ranger: A purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical Korea. U.S. President Harry Truman im- at the White House. In attendance was Soldier’s Life.” handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of mediately decided to support the United President Moon Jae-in of South Korea, who the purchaser, user or patron. Nations effort to defeat the invasion. Presi- was visiting Washington to meet with Bi- © Stars and Stripes 2021 Arthur I. Cyr is Clausen Distinguished Professor at Carthage dent Dwight Eisenhower achieved an armi- den. This is the first time the leader of a for- College and author of “After the Cold War — American Foreign stripes.com stice in July 1953. eign government has attended a Medal of Policy, Europe and Asia.” Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 15 PAGE 16 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 Eugene Sheffer Crossword Frazz Dilbert

ACROSS 57 Teen’s woe 22 Tennis score 1 Buddy 58 Attila, notably 23 Longing 4 Worry 59 Church area 27 Lad 8 Chumps 60 Spinning sound 29 Steve Harvey

Pearls Before Swine Pearls Before 12 Somewhat (Suff.) 61 Conceit facial feature 13 Move, in 30 One of HOMES Realtor-speak DOWN 31 Head, to Henri 14 Military group 1 Karaoke prop, 33 Paramount 15 Lab compound for short 35 Jo’s sister 17 Video-streaming 2 Fire sign? 38 Shoe width brand 3 Scam artists 40 Think about 18 Pub pint 4 Chum 43 “Hogwash!” 19 Discovered 5 Fun and games 45 Notre Dame’s 21 Lustrous 6 Mideast airline Parseghian Non Sequitur 24 Dead heat 7 Apartment sign 46 Met melody 25 Citric beverage 8 Dreamlike 47 Easy win 26 Society new- 9 Shortly 48 Many corp. comer 10 Toll road recruits 28 “Speed-the- 11 Poker variety 49 Georgia or Cal Plow” playwright 16 Roman 1051 53 Blackbird 20 Goal 54 Embrace 32 Evergreens 21 Ump’s call 55 Rock’s Brian 34 — de plume Answer to Previous Puzzle 36 Entice Candorville 37 Follow 39 “Uh-huh” 41 Command to Rover 42 Vigor 44 Small beard 46 Theater seat feature 50 Gun lobby org.

Carpe Diem 51 Justice Sotomayor’s garb 52 Migraine 56 Mosque leader Beetle Bailey Bizarro Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 17 PAGE 18 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 FACES Blending gore with metaphor Zack Snyder mixes social commentary into zombie movie ‘Army of the Dead’

BY JOHN CARUCCI Associated Press he elevator pitch for Zack Snyder’s “Army of the Dead” would read something like this: “28 TDays Later…” meets “Oceans 11.” But watch- ing the film reveals more than a Las Vegas zombie heist thriller as layers of subtext emerge reflecting current social issues. Building a wall to contain people, detainment camps, quarantining those suspected of carrying the zombie virus, and political debate are just a few refer- CHRIS PIZZELLO, INVISION/AP ences that play a role in the story. Director Zack Snyder poses May 7 for a portrait on a virtual production stage featuring an apocalyptic Las “I felt like to really do the genre correctly, social Vegas background to promote his new film “Army of the Dead” in El Segundo, Calif. commentary is at its heart and at its roots,” said Snyd- er, who directed, co-wrote the screenplay and shot the ferent reasons. And I think your Schweighofer plays a safe- ‘God, what a message. What a awareness of those things really is cracker alongside Omari Hard- metaphor,’” Bautista said. film. important,” Snyder said. wicke. Other members of the team But these are not your father’s Known for his strong visual built around Las Vegas to contain For German actor Matthias who venture into the zombie-in- zombies. They’re faster, smarter style in blockbusters like “300” the zombie outbreak keeps that Schweighofer, that element of the fested quarantine zone include and organized, making the mis- and “Justice League,” it was a tradition alive, mirroring the de- story touched a nerve. “Narcos” actor Ana de la Reguera, sion far more dangerous than zombie flick that Snyder cut his bate over building a wall at the “I was born behind a wall in the the multi-hyphenated Tig Notaro what you might see on “The Walk- teeth on as a director with the 2004 U.S. southern border. east of Germany and the wall and Dave Bautista. ing Dead.” remake of “Dawn of the Dead.” “We were building a wall. We came down and I always thought Bautista called working on the The film also stars Theo Rossi, He credits the film’s original di- were creating these refugee as I traveled through the world, ‘I film the most fun he’d ever had on Huma Qureshi and Nora Arnezed- rector, George A. Romero, with camps,” Snyder said. “We needed don’t want a wall back in my life. I any project, and he was equally er. While the zombies clearly rep- using the undead to tell more than to kind of use those things to hold don’t want any borders back,’” he impressed with how Snyder ad- resent a segment of society devoid just a scary story. “Romero really up a mirror to ourselves.” said. dressed some of the issues we face of humanity, it was the inclusive took the zombie genre and made Yet, the wall motif did not begin In the film, the zombies are as a society. nature of the team that made the great social commentary,” Snyder as a political statement. Snyder “contained” in Las Vegas so the The former WWE superstar biggest impact for Bautista. said. claims it was more a function of military can drop a low-level nu- never thought much about the “If you really read into it, you’d Romero’s 1968 cult classic the plot to keep the zombies in one clear bomb to rid the world of the zombie trope, until Snyder point- see a bunch of people who are “Night of the Living Dead” — and place until the social implications threat. A rich businessman, ed out that they are people from all over the world of very dif- subsequent films in the series — emerged. played by Japanese actor Hiroyu- stripped of their humanity “feed- ferent colors who are kind of tackled a barrage of issues includ- “Once you erect a giant wall ki Sanada, offers a team of merce- ing off of other human beings.” banding together just to survive,” ing, racism, nuclear war and con- around a city, you really find your- naries a sizable fortune if they can “They just have no humanity Bautista said. sumerism. self referencing all kinds of laws retrieve $200 million in a casino left. And I thought, ‘Man, that’s re- “Army of the Dead,” in theaters In “Army of the Dead,” a wall that have been created for all dif- vault. ally terrifying.’ But also, like, now, also is streaming on Netflix. Jolie criticizes judge for not letting children testify in custody case Associated Press torney said at the time that she hours a day, seven days a week. mon as a Naval Criminal Investi- Angelina Jolie criticized a judge sought a divorce “for the health of The company said Tuesday that gative Service special agent has who is deciding on child custody in the family.” it will begin offering subscribers been on the air since 2003 and de- her divorce with Brad Pitt, saying Jolie, 45, and Pitt, 57, were to its streaming service — Fox Na- fines unhip. Yet the 8.7 million in a court filing that the judge re- among Hollywood’s most promi- tion — reruns of the three prime- people who watched last Tues- fused to allow their children to tes- nent couples for 12 years. They time programs on Fox News day’s episode was a bigger audi- tify. had been married for two years Channel starting the day after ence than anything else in prime- Jolie, who has sought to disqual- when Jolie filed for divorce. they air. time television last week, Nielsen Jolie Pitt ify Judge John Ouderkirk from They were declared divorced in Although Fox Nation currently said. The company also measures the divorce case, said in the filing ing in California’s Second District April 2019, after their lawyers offers audio-only versions of these streaming audiences, although its Monday that he declined to hear Court of Appeal. asked for a judgment that allowed programs, this makes it the first reports lag behind the television evidence she says is relevant to Jolie sought a divorce in 2016, a married couple to be declared time the streaming service will of- ratings. Its most recent week the children’s safety and well-be- days after a disagreement broke single while other issues re- fer full Fox News television shows available was April 19-25, and an ing before issuing a tentative rul- out on private flight ferrying the mained, including finances and on its platform. The shows will be- estimated 890 million minutes of ing. The documents don’t elabo- actors and their children from child custody. come available starting June 2. “NCIS” reruns were streamed on rate on what that evidence may be. France to Los Angeles. Pitt was Netflix that week. “Judge Ouderkirk denied Ms. accused of being abusive toward Fox making news shows Other news ■ Disney’s iconic “Winnie the Jolie a fair trial, improperly ex- his then-15-year-old son during ■ The Nielsen company’s latest Pooh” will travel from the forest to cluding her evidence relevant to the flight, but investigations by available to stream rankings of popular television and find a home off-Broadway this fall. the children’s health, safety, and child welfare officials and the FBI Fox News is now making Tuck- streaming shows have one thing in “Winnie the Pooh: The New Musi- welfare, evidence critical to mak- were closed with no charges being er Carlson, Sean Hannity and Lau- common — “NCIS” at the top. The cal Adaptation” opens Oct. 21 at ing her case,” according to the fil- filed against the actor. Jolie’s at- ra Ingraham available to watch 24 CBS drama starring Mark Har- Time Square’s Theater Row. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 19 SCOREBOARD/SPORTS BREIFS

PRO BASKETBALL PRO SOCCER COLLEGE SOFTBALL BRIEFLY WNBA MLS NCAA Division I Super Regionals (Best-of-three; x-if necessary) EASTERN CONFERENCE EASTERN CONFERENCE Host school is home team for Game 1; WLPct GB WLTPts GF GA visiting school is home team for Game 2; coin flip determines home team for Game New York 5 1 .833 — New England 4 1 2 14 10 7 3 Connecticut 5 1 .833 — At Norman, Okla. Orlando City 3 0 3 12 7 2 Oklahoma vs. Washington Falcons’ Smith Chicago 2 2 .500 2 Philadelphia 3 2 2 11 6 5 Friday: Oklahoma (48-2) vs. Washington Atlanta 2 2 .500 2 Nashville 2 0 4 10 7 4 (45-12) Washington 2 3 .400 2½ Saturday: Oklahoma vs. Washington Atlanta 2 1 3 9 7 5 x-Sunday: Oklahoma vs. Washington Indiana 1 5 .167 4 NYCFC 2 2 2 8 11 6 At Tuscaloosa, Ala. CF Montréal 2 3 2 8 9 9 Alabama vs. Kentucky WESTERN CONFERENCE Friday: Alabama (48-7) vs. Kentucky (43- Columbus 2 2 2 8 5 5 14) tight-lipped about WLPct GB Inter Miami CF 2 3 2 8 8 10 Saturday: Alabama vs. Kentucky Seattle 4 1 .800 — New York 2 4 0 6 8 9 x-Sunday: Alabama vs. Kentucky At Columbia, Mo. Las Vegas 2 2 .500 1½ D.C. United 2 5 0 6 5 11 Missouri vs. James Madison Phoenix 2 2 .500 1½ Toronto FC 1 3 2 5 7 10 Friday: Missouri (41-15) vs. James Madi- Dallas 1 2 .333 2 Chicago 1 4 1 4 4 10 son (37-1) Saturday: Missouri vs. James Madison Minnesota 0 3 .000 3 Cincinnati 1 3 1 4 6 14 x-Sunday: Missouri vs. James Madison WR Jones’ future Los Angeles 0 2 .000 2½ At Fayetteville, Ark. WESTERN CONFERENCE Arkansas vs. Arizona Associated Press a sponsor of the postponed Tokyo Tuesday’s games Friday: Arkansas (43-9) vs. Arizona (39- WLTPts GF GA Washington 85, Indiana 69 13) ATLANTA — The Atlanta Fal- Games that are scheduled to open Saturday: Arkansas vs. Arizona Atlanta 90, Chicago 83 Seattle 5 0 2 17 14 3 cons began their offseason train- on July 23. Asahi is typically liber- Seattle 90, Connecticut 87, OT x-Sunday: Arkansas vs. Arizona Sporting KC 4 2 1 13 12 8 At Stillwater, Okla. Wednesday’s games ing program Tuesday without al-leaning and often opposes the LA Galaxy 4 2 0 12 10 11 Oklahoma St. vs. Texas Las Vegas at Phoenix Friday: Oklahoma St. (45-9) vs. Texas longtime star receiver Julio Jones, ruling party led by Prime Minister Houston 3 2 2 11 9 9 Thursday’s games (42-12) Colorado 3 2 1 10 9 8 Saturday: Oklahoma St. vs. Texas who apparently has no intention of Yoshihide Suga. Dallas at Atlanta Portland 3 3 0 9 9 8 x-Sunday: Oklahoma St. vs. Texas returning to a rebuilding team “We cannot think it’s rational to Friday’s games At Baton Rouge San Jose 3 4 0 9 11 11 Washington at Connecticut LSU vs. Florida St. that is still struggling to get under host the Olympics in the city this Los Angeles at Chicago Real Salt Lake 2 1 2 8 8 6 Friday: LSU (35-20) vs. Florida St. (42- the salary cap. summer,” the newspaper said in Minnesota at Seattle LAFC 2 2 2 8 7 7 10-1) Indiana at Las Vegas Saturday: LSU vs. Florida St. Rookie coach Arthur Smith was its editorial under a headline that Vancouver 2 4 1 7 6 9 x-Sunday: LSU vs. Florida St. TENNIS Austin FC 2 4 0 6 5 8 At Gainesville, Fla. tight-lipped about the Falcons’ op- read: “We Demand PM Suga De- Minnesota 2 4 0 6 5 10 Florida vs. Georgia Friday: Florida (45-9) vs. Georgia (32-21) tions, but insisted that he doesn’t cide Cancellation.” Strasbourg International FC Dallas 1 2 3 6 8 8 Saturday: Florida vs. Georgia begrudge Jones for making public “Distrust and backlash against Tuesday Note: Three points for victory, one point x-Sunday: Florida vs. Georgia At Strasbourg, France for tie. At Los Angeles his desire to play elsewhere. the reckless national government, UCLA vs. Virginia Tech Purse: Euro 189,708 Saturday, May 22 “We encourage our players to Tokyo government and stakehold- Surface: Red clay Friday: UCLA (44-4) vs. Virginia Tech (36- Women’s Singles Cincinnati 2, CF Montréal 1 13) speak for themselves,” Smith said ers in the Olympics are nothing Round of 32 Portland 3, LA Galaxy 0 Saturday: UCLA vs. Virginia Tech x-Sunday: UCLA vs. Virginia Tech Jule Niemeier, Germany, def. Diane Par- Chicago 1, Miami 0 during an interview session dom- but escalating,” the editorial add- ry, France, 6-4, 6-3. Orlando City 1, Toronto FC 0 inated by questions about Jones’ ed. “We demand Prime Minister Arantxa Rus, Netherlands, def. Jessica Columbus 2, New York City FC 1 COLLEGE BASEBALL Pegula (2), United States, 6-4, 6-4. New England 3, New York 1 future. “We’ve had multiple pri- Suga to calmly evaluate the cir- Shelby Rogers (7), United States, def. Real Salt Lake 2, FC Dallas 2, tie USA Today Coaches Poll Christina McHale, United States, 7-5, 6-7 Houston 2, Vancouver 1 vate conversations with our play- cumstances and decide the can- (6), 7-5. Sporting Kansas City 3, San Jose 1 The USA TODAY Sports Top 25 baseball ers. Those conversations will re- cellation of the summer event.” Harmony Tan, France, def. Alison van Los Angeles FC 2, Colorado 1 poll, with team's records through Sunday Uytvanck, Belgium, 6-4, 6-4. Sunday, May 23 in parentheses, total points based on 25 main private on my end.” Asahi has a morning circulation Round of 16 for first place through one point for 25th, Atlanta 1, Seattle 1, tie ranking in last week's poll and first-place After plenty of questions about reported at 5.16 million, and 1.55 Bianca Andreescu (1), Canada, def. Ma- Philadelphia 1, D.C. United 0 votes received: ryna Zanevska, Belgium, 6-1, 6-4. Nashville 1, Austin FC 0 the seven-time Pro Bowler who, million for its evening edition. It is Magda Linette (8), Poland, def. Alize Cor- Record Pts Pvs net, France, 7-6 (2), 3-0, ret. Saturday’s games along with Matt Ryan, has been second in circulation behind Yo- Women’s Doubles CF Montréal at Chicago 1. Arkansas (32) 42-10 800 1 Round of 16 the face of the franchise for the miuri Shimbun, and subsequently Orlando City at New York 2. Texas 40-13 746 3 Renata Voracova, Czech Republic, and New England at Cincinnati past decade, Jones brought the sit- is the second largest circulating Miyu Kato, Japan, def. Jessika Ponchet and Toronto FC at Columbus 3. Vanderbilt 39-13 736 2 Estelle Cascino, France, 6-3, 6-3. Nashville at Atlanta 4. Tennessee 42-14 695 4 uation to a head in a brief inter- newspaper in the world behind Elixane Lechemia, France, and Ingrid New York City FC at Los Angeles FC 5. Texas Tech 35-13 634 5 Neel, United States, def. Sabrina Santama- San Jose at LA Galaxy view Monday with former NFL Yomiuri. ria and Kaitlyn Christian, U.S., 6-2, 6-0. D.C. United at Miami 6. Mississippi State 40-13 621 6 star Shannon Sharpe. Zhang Shuai and Xu Yifan (4), China, def. Houston at Sporting Kansas City 7. Arizona 38-14 602 10 Clara Burel and Diane Parry, France, 7-5, FC Dallas at Colorado 8. Notre Dame 29-10 577 9 “I’m outta there,” Jones told the Senior Bowl, NFL 7-6 (4). Minnesota at Real Salt Lake Quarterfinals 9. Oregon 35-13 498 7 host of “Undisputed” on FS1. Sunday’s games Zhaoxuan Yang, China, and Makoto Ni- 10. East Carolina 38-13 474 11 to hold HBCU combine nomiya, Japan, def. Latisha Chan and Hao- Portland at Philadelphia When asked where he wants to Ching Chan (2), Taiwan, 6-4, 2-6, 10-5. Austin FC at Seattle 11. Mississippi 38-17 467 12 play, the 32-year-old replied, MOBILE, Ala. — The Senior 12. Stanford 31-13 452 15 Bowl and the NFL will hold a pre- DEALS 13. Florida 35-19 427 8 “Right now, I wanna win.” 14. TCU 36-16 360 13 That seems unlikely with the draft combine for top prospects Tuesday's transactions to May 23. Signed OF Jorge Bonifacio to a 15. UC Irvine 36-16 239 22 Falcons, who are coming off their from Historically Black College minor league contract. 16. Southern Miss 35-17 230 17 BASEBALL PITTSBURGH PIRATES — Recalled RHP third straight losing season. Atlan- and Universities next January. American League Cody Ponce from Indianapolis (Triple-A 17. NC State 28-15 215 24 The inaugural HBCU combine, BOSTON RED SOX — Reinstated INF East). Optioned RHP Kyle Keller to Indiana- 18. Gonzaga 32-15 210 20 ta fired coach Dan Quinn and gen- Christian Arroyo from 10-day IL. polis. 19. Charlotte 39-17 201 19 eral manager Thomas Dimitroff scheduled for Jan. 28-29 in 2022, CHICAGO WHITE SOX — Sent CF Adam ST. LOUIS CARDINALS — Recalled 1B Engel to Charlotte (Triple-A East) on a re- John Nogowski from Memphis (Triple-A 20. Louisiana Tech 36-16 200 14 after an 0-5 start to a year that end- will be similar to the NFL combine hab assignment. East). Placed CF Harrison Bader on the 10- 21. Old Dominion 38-14 133 25 CLEVELAND INDIANS — Agreed to terms ed at 4-12. with interviews and on-field and day IL. Sent LHP Andrew Miller to Memphis 22. Florida State 29-21 111 16 with RHP Kevin Herget on a minor league (Triple-A East) on a rehab assignment. Smith and new general manag- medical evaluations. contract. WASHINGTON NATIONALS — Recalled 23. Arizona State 32-17 110 — HOUSTON ASTROS — Signed RHP Jon INF Luis Garcia from Rochester (Triple-A 24. South Carolina 33-20 106 18 er Terry Fontenot have made it It will be held at the University Olczak to a minor league contract. East). 25. Nebraska 29-11 104 — of South Alabama and feature se- KANSAS CITY ROYALS — Activated SS FOOTBALL clear that all options are on the ta- Adalberto Mondesi from the 10-day IL. National Football League Dropped out: No. 21 UCLA (32-18); No. 23 ble as they attempt to rebuild the lect players from four HBCU con- NEW YORK YANKEES — Placed 2B D.J. Le- NBA — Fined Dallas F Kristaps Porzings Louisville (27-21). Mahieu on the paternity list. ferences — the Southwestern Ath- $50,000 for violating league rules. Others receiving votes: Liberty (37-12) roster and deal with troublesome TEXAS RANGERS — Placed RHP Kyle Gib- ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed CB Tay 66; UCLA (32-18) 58; Miami (32-17) 55; Okla- salary cap limitations, which letic Conference, the Mid-Eastern son on the 10-day IL, retroactive to May 22. Gowan and OLB Victor Dimukeje to four homa State (32-16) 54; Georgia Tech (28- Placed RHP Hunter Wood on the 10-day IL, year contracts. Signed TE Ross Travis. 21) 34; Fairfield (35-1) 31; Louisville (27-21) could be eased greatly by trading Athletic Conference, the Southern retroactive to May 23. Recalled LHP Wes LAS VEGAS RAIDERS — Signed OT Alex 19; UC Santa Barbara (35-18) 19; LSU (34- Benjamin and RHP Demarcus Evans from Leatherwood. Waived OT Kamaal Sey- 21) 17; Oregon State (33-20) 17; Wright Jones. Intercollegiate Athletic Confer- Round Rock (Triple-A West). State (32-11) 13; Michigan (26-15) 12; Dal- National League mour. ence and the Central Intercolle- NEW YORK GIANTS — Signed OLB Eler- las Baptist (33-15) 11; Connecticut (30-16) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS — Recalled son Smith. 9; Grand Canyon (36-19) 7; Maryland (26- giate Athletic Conference — and RHP Jon Duplantier from Reno (Triple-A Japan newspaper calls PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Signed DT Wil- 15) 7; Virginia (27-22) 5; Campbell (33-14) 4; other HBCU institutions. West). Placed RHP Taylor Widener on the lie Henry. Waived LB Joe Bachie. VCU (34-14) 4; Northeastern (32-9) 3; San 10-day IL, retroactive to May 24. — Signed RB Na- Diego (31-11) 2; Wofford (35-19) 2; Central for Olympic cancellation CHICAGO CUBS — Designated RHP Jason PITTSBURGH STEELERS The first scheduled HBCU com- jee Harris and TE Pat Freiermuth to four- Michigan (36-16) 1; Indiana (24-16) 1; USC Adam for assignment. Placed 3B Matt Duf- Upstate (37-14) 1. TOKYO — Japan’s Asahi Shim- bine was postponed because of the fy on the 10-day IL, retroactive to May 23. year contracts. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS — Signed OLB Selected the contract of 3B Patrick Wis- AP SPORTLIGHT bun newspaper on Wednesday COVID-19 pandemic. dom from Iowa (Triple-A East). Elerson Smith. Announced C Weston Rich- COLORADO ROCKIES — Activated LHP burg is retiring. called for the Tokyo Olympics to An HBCU Scouting Committee, Kyle Freeland from the 10-day IL. Optioned SEATTLE SEAHAWKS — Signed TE Cam May 27 be canceled with the games set to comprised of current and former LHP Lucas Gilbreath to Albuquerque (Tri- Sutton to a contract. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Re-signed 1823 — A $20,000 match race between ple-A West). American Eclipse (representing The open in less than two months. league executives, will evaluate MILWAUKEE BREWERS — Claimed RF WR Antonio Brown. Signed CB Dee Dela- North) and Henry (representing The Jake Hager off waivers from New York ney. South) is held at Union Course, Long Is- It is the first of Japan’s major and select the participants. The Mets. Optioned RF Jake Hager and OF Ty- WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM — land, N.Y. American Eclipse wins in two-of- newspapers to make the move and Senior Bowl will provide medical rone Taylor to Nashville (Triple-A East). Signed TE Ricky Seals-Jones. three heats, after his original jockey, Wil- Activated RHP Eric Yardley from 10-day IL. HOCKEY liam Crafts, is replaced by Samuel Purdy joins some regional newspapers and football personnel to collect NEW YORK METS — Activated RHP Jacob National Hockey League before the second heat. The race, wit- deGrom from the 10-day IL. Placed RHP NHL — Fined Tampa Bay F Pat Maroon nessed by 60,000 spectators, is the first to that have recently added to the pre-draft information. Jordan Yamamoto on the 10-day IL, retro- $3,879.31 for unsportsmanlike conduct have been timed by split-second chro- growing opposition to holding the The game is scheduled for Feb. active tp May 24. Acquired OF Billy McKin- during a May 24 game against Florida. nometers, which were imported for the ney from Milwaukee in exchange for LHP Fined Tampa Bay D Ryan McDonagh $5,000 event. Olympics. 5, 2022. Pedro Quintana. Transfered RHP Jordan for cross-checking Florida F Mason 1873 — Survivor is the winner of the first Yamamoto to the 60-day IL. Marchment during a May 24 game against Preakness Stakes. Coming out against the Olym- No HBCU players were drafted PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES — Activated CF Florida. 1975 — The Philadelphia Flyers win their pics could be significant since the in 2021, and the only one picked in Roman Quinn from the 10-day IL. Placed RF COLORADO AVALANCHE — Assigned F second straight Stanley Cup with a 2-0 vic- Bryce Harper on the 10-day IL, retroactive Travis Barron to Utah (ECHL). tory over the Buffalo Sabres in Game 6. newspaper, like many in Japan, is 2020 went in the seventh round. PAGE 20 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 NBA PLAYOFFS Nets get 7 threes from Harris, rout Celtics for 2-0 lead

BY BRIAN MAHONEY Associated Press Scoreboard NEW YORK — Brooklyn is more than just its Big Three. Playoffs There’s also Joe Harris and his Play­in threes. Play­in First Round Eastern Conference Even if a team can contain Ke- Tuesday, May 18 Indiana 144, Charlotte 117 vin Durant, Kyrie Irving and Boston 118, Washington 100 James Harden, it still has to stop Western Conference Wednesday, May 19 the NBA’s most accurate three- Memphis 100, San Antonio 96 L.A. Lakers 103, Golden State 100 point shooter. Play­in Second Round That’s a lot of problems to solve, Eastern Conference Thursday, May 20 and Harris understands why Washington 142, Indiana 115 teams don’t make him the priority. Western Conference Friday, May 21 “I think it’s just sort of, this is the Memphis 117, Golden State 112 (OT) First Round reality of the matter,” Harris said. (Best­of­seven) “I mean, we have three of the best x­if necessary ROSS D. FRANKLIN/AP Eastern Conference offensive players that really have Philadelphia 1,Washington 0 Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton dunks against Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis during the ever played.” Philadelphia 125, Washington 118 second half of the Lakers’ 109­102 win Tuesday in Phoenix in Game 2 of a first­round playoff series. Wednesday: at Philadelphia Harris tied a franchise playoff Saturday: at Washington Monday: at Washington record with seven three-pointers, x­Wednesday, June 2: at Philadelphia Durant scored 26 points and the x­Friday, June 4: at Washington x­Sunday, June 6: at Philadelphia Nets routed the Boston Celtics 130- Brooklyn 2, Boston 0 Brooklyn 104, Boston 93 108 on Tuesday night for a 2-0 lead Tuesday: Brooklyn 130, Boston 108 Davis, Lakers bounce back in their first-round playoff series. Friday: at Boston Sunday: at Boston Harris had a career playoff-high x­Tuesday, June 1: at Brooklyn x­Thursday, June 3: at Boston 25 points and Harden added 20 as x­Saturday, June 5: at Brooklyn Brooklyn unleashed its lethal of- Milwaukee 2, Miami 0 Milwaukee 109, Miami 107 (OT) to beat Suns in Game 2 fense after winning Game 1 large- Milwaukee 132, Miami 98 Thursday: at Miami ly with defense. Saturday: at Miami “Different games it’s going to be x­Tuesday, June 1: at Milwaukee BY DAVID BRANDT said. “We all came out with that crunch time.” x­Thursday, June 3: at Miami Associated Press different guys,” Harden said. “To- x­Saturday, June 5: at Milwaukee mindset and we were able to get James said he wasn’t sur- Atlanta 1, New York 0 night it was Joe, next game, Game Atlanta 107, New York 105 PHOENIX — The Los Angeles the job done.” prised Davis bounced back 3 it could be somebody else. So Wednesday: at New York Lakers were reeling late in the It was a big bounce-back game quickly. He said the team made it Friday: at Atlanta we’re just all locked in, we’re all on Sunday: at Atlanta fourth quarter on Tuesday night. for Los Angeles, and especially a point to get him involved as the same page and whatever it x­Wednesday, June 2: at New York The Phoenix Suns had made a Davis, who struggled in Game 1 much as possible. x­Friday, June 4: at Atlanta takes to win, we’re willing to do.” x­Sunday, June 6: at New York big run, their home crowd was in and took personal responsibility “Get him the ball early, often Western Conference Game 3 is Friday in Boston, Memphis 1, Utah 0 a frenzy and the defending NBA for the team’s 99-90 loss on Sun- and always,” James said. “It’s where the Nets will attempt to Memphis 112, Utah 109 champions were in danger of go- day. His crucial three-pointer that simple.” Wednesday: at Utah build on their first 2-0 lead in a se- Saturday: at Memphis ing down two games to none in with 2:15 left on Tuesday put his Game 3 is on Thursday in Los Monday: at Memphis ries since they swept the New x­Wednesday, June 2: at Utah the first round. team up 98-92 and ended a late Angeles and the team suddenly York Knicks in the first round in x­Friday, June 4: at Memphis LeBron James and Anthony Phoenix rally. has a lot of momentum. x­Sunday, June 6: at Utah 2004. Phoenix 1, L.A. Lakers 1 Davis weren’t about to let that Davis made 18 of 21 free “That’s what I came here for,” Phoenix 99, L.A. Lakers 90 This one might be headed to- Tuesday: L.A. Lakers 109, Phoenix 102 happen. throws and added 10 rebounds James said. “To be able to play a ward the same result, with the Cel- Thursday: at L.A. Lakers James made a turnaround 18- and seven assists. James added playoff game in front of the Lak- Sunday: at L.A. Lakers tics unable to do much scoring in Tuesday, June 1: at Phoenix foot jumper, Davis followed with 23 points and nine assists. ers faithful.” x­Thursday, June 3: at L.A. Lakers Game 1 or stop Brooklyn from do- x­Saturday, June 5: at Phoenix a three-pointer and the Lakers “Those are two of the top five Devin Booker led the Suns ing tons of it in Game 2. Portland 1, Denver 1 held on for a hard-fought 109-102 players in the NBA,” Lakers with 31 points and made all 17 of Portland 123, Denver 109 “We’ve got to be way better,” Denver 128, Portland 109 win over the Suns in Game 2 of coach Frank Vogel said. “We his free throws. DeAndre Ayton Thursday: at Portland coach Brad Stevens said, listing a Saturday: at Portland the playoff series. have a formula where those guys had 22 points, 10 rebounds and number of defensive problems Tuesday, June 1: at Denver “This was a must win,” Davis carry a big load, especially at shot 11-for-13 from the field. x­Thursday, June 3: at Portland Boston has to address. x­Saturday, June 5: at Denver “They exposed that because Dallas 2, L.A. Clippers 0 Dallas 113, L.A. Clippers 103 they were really good, but I was Tuesday: Dallas 127, L.A. Clippers 121 Friday: at Dallas Doncic, Mavs go up 2-0 on Clippers disappointed in how we played Sunday: at Dallas versus the other night.” x­Wednesday, June 2: at L.A. Clippers BY BETH HARRIS ry over the Los Angeles Clippers x­Friday, June 4: at Dallas Marcus Smart scored 19 points x­Sunday, June 6: at L.A. Clippers Associated Press on Tuesday night to take a 2-0 lead and Kemba Walker had 17 for the LOS ANGELES — A familiar in the first-round playoff series. Celtics. Leading scorer Jayson Ta- face sat behind the Dallas Maver- “We can’t rest,” Hardaway said. tum had only nine points on 3- court and be firing on all cylinders. icks’ bench. Dirk Nowitzki, who “We know what they’re capable for-12 shooting before leaving af- It was only a day later for Har- led the franchise to its only cham- of.” ter just 21 minutes when he was ris, who led the NBA in three-point pionship in 2011 during his 21 sea- Kristaps Porzingis added 20 poked in the right eye. percentage at 47.5% this season. sons, came to see his old franchise points and Maxi Kleber had 13. After the Nets scored just 16 Harris made three straight that hasn’t won a playoff series Hardaway hit a playoff career- points in the first quarter of Game three-pointers to extend a three- since its title. high six three-pointers and Doncic 1, Harris had that by himself in the point lead to 25-13 and there was a Led by Luka Doncic, this edition had five as the fifth-seeded Mavs opening quarter of this one while little gasp from the crowd when he is looking pretty good. were 18-for-34 from long-range. going 4-for-4 behind the arc. then stole the ball and dribbled “I certainly believe him being They made 17 three-pointers in Brooklyn had started slowly in down on a breakaway, as if he there tonight was a lucky charm winning Game 1 on Saturday. Game 1 and in the only game its might pull up behind the arc. In- for us,” Mavs coach Rick Carlisle “The mentality was, go out Big Three played together late in stead, he went all the way for the said. there, play aggressive, have fun,” the regular season, and on Mon- layup and a 14-point lead. Doncic scored 39 points, Tim Doncic said. MARCIO JOSE SANCHEZ/AP day coach Steve Nash said he It was 40-26 after one period and Hardaway Jr. added 28 and Dallas The fourth-seeded Clippers Mavericks guard Luka Doncic thought it might be a while before Harden made consecutive threes again outshot the NBA’s best were led by Kawhi Leonard, who had 39 points in his team’s win his three stars could walk on the to open the second. three-point team in a 127-121 victo- scored 30 of his 41 in the first half. Tuesday at Los Angeles. Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 21 NHL PLAYOFFS Leafs blank Habs, take 3-1 series lead Associated Press MONTREAL — Alex Galcheny- Scoreboard uk had plenty of memorable nights inside the Bell Centre. His latest First round standout performance pushed his (Best-of-seven; x-if necessary) former team to the brink of playoff Carolina 3, Nashville 2 elimination. Carolina 5, Nashville 2 Galchenyuk set up two goals and Carolina 3, Nashville 0 Nashville 5, Carolina 4, 2OT scored into the empty net against his Nashville 4, Carolina 3, 2OT Tuesday: Carolina 3, Nashville 2, OT former team, Jack Campbell made Thursday: Carolina at Nashville 32 saves in his first playoff shutout, x-Saturday: Nashville at Carolina and the Toronto Maple Leafs beat Tampa Bay 3, Florida 2 Tampa Bay 5, Florida 4 the Montreal Canadiens 4-0 on Tampa Bay 3, Florida 1 Florida 6, Tampa Bay 5, OT Tuesday night for a 3-1 lead in their Tampa Bay 6, Florida 2 first-round series. Florida 4, Tampa Bay 1 Wednesday: Florida at Tampa Bay “It’s the playoffs, man,” Galche- x-Friday: Tampa Bay at Florida nyuk said when asked if he still Boston 4, Washington 1 speaks with anyone on the other Washington 3, Boston 2, OT Boston 4, Washington 3, OT team. “You know what time it is Boston 3, Washington 2, 2OT Boston 4, Washington 1 right now. Boston 3, Washington 1 “There’s no friends.” N.Y. Islanders 3, Pittsburgh 2 GERRY BROOME/AP Galchenyuk was a healthy N.Y. Islanders 4, Pittsburgh 3, OT Carolina Hurricanes center Jordan Staal, left, scores Tuesday against Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Pittsburgh 2, N.Y. Islanders 1 scratch in Game 1 before coming in- Pittsburgh 5, N.Y. Islanders 4 Saros during overtime of Game 5 of the teams’ first­round playoff series in Raleigh, N.C. N.Y. Islanders 4, Pittsburgh 1 to the lineup when captain John Ta- N.Y. Islanders 3, Pittsburgh 2, 2OT vares was injured in a scary colli- Wednesday: Pittsburgh at N.Y. Islanders x-Friday: N.Y. Islanders at Pittsburgh sion. Toronto 3, Montreal 1 “Whatever role our team asks Montreal 2, Toronto 1 him to play, he comes in and does it Toronto 5, Montreal 1 Toronto 2, Montreal 1 tremendously,” said Campbell. “It’s Tuesday: Toronto 4, Montreal 0 not easy to come in and out of the li- Thursday: Montreal at Toronto Hurricane warning x-Saturday: Toronto at Montreal neup, but whenever he’s in, he’s giv- x-Monday: Montreal at Toronto en us a spark.” Winnipeg 4, Edmonton 0 Winnipeg 4, Edmonton 1 Jason Spezza had a goal and an as- Winnipeg 1, Edmonton 0, OT Winnipeg 5, Edmonton 4, OT Staal lifts Carolina in overtime of Game 5 sist and William Nylander and Joe Winnipeg 4, Edmonton 3, 3OT Thornton also scored for Toronto, Vegas 3, Minnesota 2 BY AARON BEARD grueling double-overtime contests in Games 3 and 4 in which can wrap up the best-of-sev- Minnesota 1, Vegas 0, OT Associated Press the best-of-seven series. This one, however, moved the Vegas 3, Minnesota 1 en series at home Thursday in Vegas 5, Minnesota 2 RALEIGH, N.C. — Coach Rod Brind’Amour figured Hurricanes within a win of closing it out and advancing Vegas 4, Minnesota 0 Game 5. Alexander Kerfoot had Minnesota 4, Vegas 2 the puck would eventually have to bounce the right in the postseason. three assists. Wednesday: Vegas at Minnesota way for his Carolina Hurricanes. They’ll get that chance on the road in Game 6 on x-Friday: Minnesota at Vegas “Scoring, defending, checking, all Fittingly, his captain was ready when it did. Thursday night. Colorado 4, St. Louis 0 the way through the lineup, the guys Colorado 4, St. Louis 1 Jordan Staal scored off a rebound at 2:03 of overtime Martin Necas scored twice for Carolina, which flirt- dug down,” said Maple Leafs head Colorado 6, St. Louis 3 to give the Hurricanes a 3-2 come-from-behind victory ed with becoming the first team to lose on home ice in Colorado 5, St. Louis 1 coach Sheldon Keefe. “A lot of great Colorado 5, St. Louis 2 over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night, push- the series. In addition to trailing midway through the efforts all the way.” ing Carolina to a 3-2 lead in the first-round playoff se- third period, it had a second-period goal disallowed af- Carey Price stopped 24 shots for ries. ter a Nashville challenge for goaltender interference. Montreal. The Canadiens have 2-1 victory, haven’t advanced to the Staal was jostling for position just outside the crease “I think we got rewarded tonight,” Brind’Amour scored just four times in 12 periods second round since 2004. when Brett Pesce fired a shot toward Juuse Saros, who said. “That’s the way I look at it. We finally got a against Campbell in the first playoff Toronto is 11-1 all-time when lead- made the stop and poked the puck forward. But Staal bounce, something that went our way that we really series between the teams since 1979. ing a series 3-1 — a situation the Ma- batted it out of the air and past Saros into the net. haven’t had this series. So I think that was nice.” “We’re playing against another ple Leafs haven’t found themselves Staal gave a yell and immediately skated backward Yakov Trenin scored twice to lead the Predators’ of- team,” Montreal head coach Do- in since 1987. with his arms outstretched until he reached the fense. Saros finished with 34 saves after racking up 110 minique Ducharme said. “If we If the Canadiens can force a boards, where his teammates mobbed him in front of a stops through the two double-overtime wins that knot- were going 5-on-0, we’d go up and Game 6 in Montreal on Saturday, roaring home crowd of 12,000. ted the series at 2-2. down the ice the way we want.” the Quebec government will allow “Not a whole lot of thoughts going through my mind Once again, he repeatedly turned away clean looks The Leafs, who won consecutive 2,500 fans into the Bell Centre, besides just wanting some bear hugs from the fellas,” by the Hurricanes while his teammates clogged up postseason games in Montreal for which would be the first NHL crowd Staal said. lanes to block shots or frustrate Carolina’s ability to get the first time since the 1967 Stanley in Canada since the start of the CO- Staal’s score ended what was the third straight game traffic in front of Saros above the crease until Staal did Cup Final on the heels of Monday’s VID-19 pandemic in March 2020. to go to extra time, with the Predators winning a pair of for the winner. Puck: Rookie goaltender helps Panthers stave off elimination

FROM PAGE 24 deljkovic in net for the Hurricanes, despite me, greatness is about longevity,” Trotz and put up 12 points in 30 games, so his two Knight at 20 became the youngest goalie the 25-year-old starting just 23 games dur- said. “Sidney Crosby and (Evgeni) Malkin playoff goals haven’t been a surprise. to start an elimination game and allowed a ing the season. and those guys have been really good play- Confidence is oozing from Panthers roo- goal on the first shot he faced in his NHL Stopping 142 of 153 Nashville shots for a ers and elite players for a decade, and Ilya kie forwards Owen Tippett and Mason playoff debut Monday night. Then he stop- 2.13 goals-against average and .928 save hasn’t proved it yet in the league, but it’s a Marchment, who have combined for six ped the next 36 to keep the Panthers alive percentage through four games was more good start.” points. Florida would be out of the playoffs against the Lightning. than enough for Nedeljkovic to stay in net. Kaprizov, the likely Calder Trophy win- if not for the duo and Knight. “I just approached it like I did every other Islanders coach Barry Trotz wouldn’t ner as rookie of the year, had a rough start to There are other rookies playing well, too: hockey game,” Knight said. “I was a little think of taking Sorokin out after he stopped the playoffs. The young Russian winger had Colorado’s Alex Newhook, who played the nervous, but then I just kind of thought and 48 of 50 Pittsburgh shots in a double-over- just one assist to show for Minnesota’s first entire first-round sweep of St. Louis, and remembered it’s just playing hockey and I time victory in Game 5, though veteran Se- four games against Vegas before scoring a Montreal’s Cole Caufield, who won the Ho- just tried to control what I can and just have myon Varlamov carried the team at times big goal Monday to help the Wild stay alive. bey Baker Award as the best college player fun.” during the regular season. Trotz isn’t ready The polar opposite to Kaprizov’s hype, in the country and played well in Game 3 Knight left little doubt he would start to crown Sorokin yet, despite a 1.66 GAA Colton has played an outsized role for the against Toronto. again for Florida in another elimination and .951 save percentage. Lightning compared to expectations. He game Wednesday. The same goes for Ne- “He’s played well in this series, (but) to stepped in during the season amid injuries AP sports writer Pat Graham contributed to this report. PAGE 22 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 NFL/MLB Packers suggest Rodgers situation isn’t a distraction BY STEVE MEGARGEE “Love the coaching staff, love Associated Press my teammates, love the fan base Packers quarterback Aaron in Green Bay,” Rodgers said in Rodgers’ teammates say the the interview. “An incredible 16 MVP’s uncertain status won’t dis- years. It’s just kind of about a phi- tract them in their offseason losophy and maybe forgetting preparations. that it is about the people that Rodgers hasn’t been present make the thing go. It’s about char- for organized team activities this acter, it’s about culture, it’s about week following an ESPN report doing things the right way. last month that he doesn’t want to “A lot of this was put in motion return to Green Bay. Rodgers last year and the wrench was just was noncommittal about his fu- kind of thrown into it when I won CHARLES REX ARBOGAST / AP ture in an ESPN interview Mon- MVP and played the way I played Umpire Joe West, second from right, broke the record for most regular­season games called by a major day night. last year. This is just kind of, I league umpire with No. 5,376 on Tuesday when the St. Louis Cardinals played at the Chicago White Sox. “I don’t think it’s going to be think, a spill-out of all that. But it that much of a distraction,” de- is about the people, and that’s the fensive tackle Kenny Clark said most important thing.” Tuesday. “We’ve got to control Rodgers went on to reference West breaks MLB umpiring what we can control as a team, Curly Lambeau, Vince Lombardi, and we’ve just to come out, prac- Bart Starr, Brett Favre, Reggie tice, handle business and play White and Mike Holmgren while record with 5,376th game ball. You know, we’ve got to leave talking about how “Green Bay that situation to the organization has always been about the peo- BY JAY COHEN ball on occasion during his long and Aaron.” ple.” Associated Presss career. Rodgers wasn’t the only nota- LaFleur declined to comment CHICAGO — No arguing this: 5,376 During a 1990 brawl, West ble Packer missing from Tues- on the issues Rodgers addressed Cowboy Joe is No. 1 on the chart. body-slammed pitcher Dennis Regular-season games umpired by Joe day’s OTA session. Most of his re- while reiterating his hopes to Joe West set baseball’s umpir- West, which tops the MLB list. Cook to the ground. After he was ceivers also weren’t there, in- have the three-time MVP back ing record when the Chicago 1. Joe West — 5,376 (NL, 1976—1999; thrown out by West during a 2018 cluding All-Pro Davante Adams. this fall. General manager Brian White Sox beat the St. Louis Car- MLB, 2002—present) game, White Sox shortstop Tim Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur Gutekunst has said he has no dinals 8-3 on Tuesday night. West 2. Bill Klem — 5,375 (NL, 1905—1941) Anderson said: “I don’t have said he didn’t know whether it plans to trade Rodgers, who has was behind the plate for his 3. Bruce Froemming — 5,163 (NL, much to say about him. Everybo- 1971—1999; ML, 2000—2007) might have been a coordinated ef- three years remaining on his con- 5,376th regular-season game, dy knows he’s terrible.” fort by the receivers to stay away. tract. snapping a tie with Hall of Famer Source: MLB.com Last year, West ejected Wash- “I’ve had individual conversa- Safety Adrian Amos was cau- Bill Klem. ington Nationals general manag- tions with each guy, but never tiously optimistic that Rodgers West, who reached the majors mer and current umpiring col- er Mike Rizzo from an upstairs once has that come up,” LaFleur will remain with the Packers. in 1976 and turns 69 on Oct. 31, got leagues offering their congratu- suite in Atlanta for yelling and said. “I haven’t heard him say any- his picture taken with his crew lations. The crowd responded complaining. The NFL Players’ Association thing other than that, so I expect before the game started. He also with mostly boos. West was suspended for three has advised players against at- him to be (back),” Amos said. posed for photos with managers The San Diego Chicken mascot days without pay in 2017 after he tending voluntary workouts “But like I said, I’m not going to go Tony La Russa of the White Sox was on hand, too, presenting West said in an interview that former while citing the risks inherent home and cry if something else and Mike Shildt of the Cardinals. with flowers during the game. Texas Rangers third baseman amid the pandemic. happens. I’m just playing it day After the lineup cards were ex- The colorful West is perhaps Adrián Beltré was baseball’s big- Although Rodgers wasn’t by day. But of course, you want changed, St. Louis pitcher Adam the most famous umpire in major gest complainer. West said he around, he still dominated dis- one of the greatest, if not the Wainwright walked to the plate to league history, known for his was joking, and Beltré agreed. cussions as Packers players greatest, quarterback ever on shake West’s hand. memorable run-ins with several He was awarded $500,000 last spoke to reporters Tuesday. your team. You want him out West was visited by baseball players and managers over the month in a defamation suit Many of the questions focused on here. But everybody has to go Commissioner Rob Manfred, for- years, to go along with at least one against former catcher Paul Lo the issues Rodgers addressed in about their business. I’m not go- mer Commissioner Peter Ueber- executive. West said he will de- Duca. In his suit, among other the interview that ESPN aired ing to knock anybody for getting roth and White Sox owner Jerry cide at the end of the season if he things, West contended Lo Duca Monday night. what they feel like they deserve.” Reinsdorf. The ump’s supporters wants to keep working as an um- made false allegations that would in the crowd included country pire. hurt his chances of being elected music singer Emmylou Harris He also fashions himself as a to the Hall of Fame. There are and former NBA center Mark country music singer and song- currently 10 umpires in the Hall. Eaton, a conspicuous 7-foot-4 fig- writer, leading to the nicknames West also has his share of fans. ure in the postgame picture with “Cowboy Joe” and “Country La Russa called West “very con- West surrounded by an eclectic Joe.” The Oak Ridge Boys, mem- sistent.” group of connections from his bers of the Country Music Hall of “It’s richly deserved, earned, to long career. Fame and friends with West, hold the record,” said the 76- “It was tough to hold back a sung the national anthem before year-old La Russa, a Hall of Fam- tear or two, but Tom Hanks said his record-breaking game. er. “I mean you have Joe calling there is no crying in baseball, so West began his big league ca- the game, bases, but especially you can’t do it,” West said, refer- reer at age 23, doing a handful of behind the plate, you’re going to ring to Hanks’ iconic line in the games in the last month of the get an outstanding major league movie “A League of Their Own.” 1976 season. His first plate job in- job.” “It was a very nice thing,” he cluded Hall of Fame knuckleball- At the 2017 All-Star Game, said. er Phil Niekro throwing to young slugger Nelson Cruz came to the The White Sox recognized Braves catcher Dale Murphy. plate, pulled out his phone and West’s achievement on the score- He has worked the World Se- had catcher Yadier Molina take a JEFFREY PHELPS / AP board, and then showed a video ries six times. He has 193 career picture of Cruz and plate umpire Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers and most of his with country music star Garth ejections — and West himself has West. Asked why, Cruz said: receivers were missing from the team’s voluntary workout Tuesday. Brooks and some of West’s for- run afoul of Major League Base- “He’s a legend, you know?” Thursday, May 27, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 23 MLB

Scoreboard ROUNDUP

American League

East Division WLPct GB Tampa Bay 30 20 .600 _ White Sox rout sloppy Cardinals Boston 29 20 .592 ½ New York 28 20 .583 1 Toronto 24 23 .511 4½ Baltimore 17 31 .354 12 Giolito outduels Flaherty Central Division in matchup of former WLPct GB Chicago 28 19 .596 _ high school teammates Cleveland 26 20 .565 1½ Associated Press Kansas City 23 23 .500 4½ CHICAGO — Lucas Giolito beat Minnesota 19 29 .396 9½ Detroit 18 30 .375 10½ Jack Flaherty in a major league matchup of former high school West Division teammates, leading the Chicago WLPct GB White Sox to an 8­3 defeat of the Oakland 28 22 .560 _ sloppy St. Louis Cardinals. Houston 26 22 .542 1 Seattle 23 26 .469 4½ The Harvard­Westlake High Texas 22 28 .440 6 reunion also had a little history be­ Los Angeles 21 27 .438 6 hind the plate, with Joe West National League working a record 5,376th regular­ East Division season game, snapping a tie with Hall of Fame umpire Bill Klem. WLPct GB Giolito (4­4) pitched six innings New York 22 20 .524 _ of two­run ball in his second Atlanta 24 24 .500 1 Philadelphia 24 25 .490 1½ straight win, easily getting the bet­ Miami 23 25 .479 2 ter of a shaky Flaherty hurt by an­ Washington 20 24 .455 3 other poor defensive performance Central Division by the Cardinals. WLPct GB Flaherty (8­1), leading the ma­ 2 St. Louis 26 22 .542 _ jors in wins, lasted just 3⁄3 innings Chicago 25 22 .532 ½ in his shortest outing of the season. Milwaukee 24 24 .500 2 José Abreu homered and drove Cincinnati 21 25 .457 4 in four runs for the White Sox, who Pittsburgh 18 29 .383 7½ earned their second straight win West Division since they were swept by the Yan­ WLPct GB kees over the weekend. Liam Hen­ San Diego 31 18 .633 _ driks entered with the bases load­ CHARLES REX ARBOGAST/AP Los Angeles 30 18 .625 ½ ed in the ninth and struck out the San Francisco 29 19 .604 1½ The Chicago White Sox’s Jose Abreu, center, umpire Joe West and St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jack Flaher­ Colorado 19 30 .388 12 side for his 10th save. ty watch Abreu’s two­run home run during an 8­3 win Tuesday by the White Sox in Chicago. Arizona 18 31 .367 13 St. Louis committed a season­ high three errors in its fourth loss Tuesday’s games Blue Jays 6, Yankees 2:Steven 58 strikeouts before walking any­ thony Misiewicz recorded two key Kansas City 2, Tampa Bay 1 in five games. Matz returned to New York with one, issued three free passes, hit a outs in the eighth before Rafael Cleveland 4, Detroit 1 Royals 2, Rays 1:Tampa Bay’s Toronto 6, N.Y. Yankees 2 his finest outing in two years, Vla­ batter and threw a wild pitch. Montero finished for his sixth save Atlanta 3, Boston 1 11­game winning streak came to Minnesota 7, Baltimore 4 dimir Guerrero Jr. hit his major Cubs 4, Pirates 3: Chicago’s after putting runners on the cor­ Chicago White Sox 8, St. Louis 3 an end when Brad Keller pitched league­leading 16th home run and Joc Pederson hit two home runs ners. L.A. Dodgers 9, Houston 2 seven strong innings and Salvador L.A. Angels 11, Texas 5 Toronto earned a road win. and Jake Arrieta won at Pitts­ Indians 4, Tigers 1: Aaron Civ­ Seattle 4, Oakland 3 Perez hit a tiebreaking RBI single Philadelphia 2, Miami 0 Corey Kluber (4­3), making his burgh for the third time this sea­ ale dominated Detroit again, tak­ Chicago Cubs 4, Pittsburgh 3 to give visiting Kansas City a vic­ Cincinnati 2, Washington 1 first start after pitching a no­hitter son. ing a shutout into the ninth inning tory. N.Y. Mets 3, Colorado 1 for New York, had his outing cut Arrieta (5­4) went five innings in Cleveland’s road victory. San Diego 7, Milwaukee 1 Rich Hill struck out a career­ San Francisco 8, Arizona 0 short by shoulder tightness. The and gave up three runs — two Civale (7­1) improved to 6­0 high 13 for the Rays. Tampa Bay’s Wednesday’s games team said the two­time Cy Young earned — on five hits with seven with a 2.19 ERA in seven career Baltimore at Minnesota winning streak was the second­ St. Louis at Chicago White Sox longest in club history, one shy of Award winner will have an MRI. strikeouts and one walk. Four starts against the Tigers, includ­ Seattle at Oakland Angels 11, Rangers 5: Shohei Cubs relievers combined for four ing three wins this season. He al­ Texas at L.A. Angels the record set in 2004 by the then­ Toronto at N.Y. Yankees Ohtani hit his 15th homer during a scoreless innings, with Craig Kim­ lowed one run, six hits and a walk Atlanta at Boston Devil Rays managed by Lou Pi­ Cleveland at Detroit niella. six­run burst, Andrew Heaney brel working the ninth for his 10th in eight­plus innings. Kansas City at Tampa Bay save. The bullpen has allowed on­ Reds 2, Nationals 1: Eugenio L.A. Dodgers at Houston Dodgers 9, Astros 2: Clayton (2­3) got his first win in eight Chicago Cubs at Pittsburgh weeks and Los Angeles beat visit­ ly one unearned run over its last Suarez homered off Washington Philadelphia at Miami Kershaw pitched into the eighth 2 Cincinnati at Washington inning in his first game against ing Texas. 29 ⁄3 innings. ace Max Scherzer (4­3) in his first Colorado at N.Y. Mets San Diego at Milwaukee Houston since the 2017 World Se­ Ohtani scorched a cutter by Braves 3, Red Sox 1: Pablo career start as a leadoff hitter, Tyl­ 1 San Francisco at Arizona ries, and Justin Turner hit a two­ Brett de Geus down the right­field Sandoval had three hits in his first er Mahle allowed three hits in 5 ⁄3 Thursday’s games line for a three­run shot to give the game at Fenway Park since his di­ scoreless innings and Cincinnati Cleveland (Bieber 4-3) at Detroit (Boyd run homer for visiting Los An­ 2-5) geles. Angels a 9­1 lead in the fourth in­ sastrous tenure with Boston, and won on the road. Kansas City (Singer 2-3) at Tampa Bay ning. The ball had a 117 mph exit Charlie Morton pitched out of Phillies 2, Marlins 0:Vince Ve­ (McClanahan 1-0) Kershaw (7­3) allowed a run Toronto (Ray 2-1) at N.Y. Yankees (Mont- 2 velocity off Ohtani’s bat — the har­ early trouble to lead Atlanta. lasquez pitched three­hit ball for gomery 2-1) and four hits in 7 ⁄3 innings and Baltimore (Zimmermann 2-3) at Chicago Chris Taylor drove in two runs as dest­hit homer by an Angels play­ Sandoval, who was released in six innings, Rhys Hoskins home­ White Sox (Cease 2-1) L.A. Angels (Ohtani 1-0) at Oakland (Bas- the Dodgers got their eighth er since MLB Statcast started in 2017 midway through the five­ red and Philadelphia won at Mia­ sitt 4-2) 2015. year, $95 million contract he mi. Texas (TBD) at Seattle (Flexen 4-2) straight victory. Colorado (Senzatela 1-4) at N.Y. Mets Mets 3, Rockies 1: Jacob de­ Padres 7, Brewers 1:Joe Mus­ signed with the Red Sox, was Twins 7, Orioles 4: Rob Ref­ (TBD) Philadelphia (Howard 0-1) at Miami (Ló- Grom struck out nine in a success­ grove and three relievers com­ booed for every at­bat. But he re­ snyder homered and doubled pez 1-3) bined on a two­hitter and visiting sponded with singles in his first twice, Jorge Polanco also home­ Chicago Cubs (Hendricks 4-4) at Pitts- ful return from the injured list and burgh (Anderson 3-4) Tomás Nido hit a tiebreaking San Diego got to Milwaukee ace three plate appearances before he red and host Minnesota gave Bal­ San Diego (Weathers 2-1) at Milwaukee (Houser 3-5) homer to send depleted New York Corbin Burnes by matching a sea­ grounded out meekly to third to timore its eighth straight loss. Cincinnati (Gray 0-3) at Washington son high with six stolen bases. start the eighth. Giants 8, Diamondbacks 0: (Strasburg 1-1) past visiting Colorado. St. Louis (Martínez 3-4) at Arizona (Fran- Back from a bout with tightness The Padres ran like crazy on a Mariners 4, Athletics 3: J.P. Evan Longoria had three hits, in­ koff 0-1) San Francisco (Wood 5-1) at L.A. Dodg- on his right side, deGrom gave up night when Burnes (2­4) was un­ Crawford had three hits and Seat­ cluding a three­run homer, and ers (TBD) only Ryan McMahon’s solo homer characteristically wild and scored tle center fielder Kyle Lewis made drove in four runs, Kevin Gaus­ MLB calendar in five innings of three­hit ball. four runs against the right­hander a magnificent catch to save two man struck out nine in five in­ June 2-3 — Owners meeting, New York. July 11-13 — Amateur draft, Denver. The two­time Cy Young Award in six innings, spiking his ERA possible runs in a win at Oakland. nings, and San Francisco won at July 13 — All-Star Game, Denver. winner walked none and was re­ from 1.79 to 2.33. Burnes, who Paul Sewald (2­0) pitched two Arizona to break a three­game los­ July 25 — Hall of Fame induction, Coo- perstown, N.Y. moved after 63 pitches. opened the season with a record innings of relief for the win. An­ ing streak. PAGE 24 • STARS AND STRIPES • Thursday, May 27, 2021 Lakers bounce back SPORTS Davis helps Los Angeles even series with Phoenix ›› NBA playoffs, Page 20

Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic blocks a shot by Nashville Predators center Nick Cousins during Game 4 of their first­round playoff series.

MARK HUMPHREY/AP

Tampa Bay Lightning rookie left wing Ross Colton CHRIS O’MEARA/AP Beginner’s puck Rookies impacting NHL playoffs

BY STEPHEN WHYNO is proving to be something of a rookie Associated Press showcase. or all the talk about how much playoff ex- “I think it’s a little bit in your mental perience goes into winning the Stanley makeup,” Lightning coach Jon Cooper Cup and the guys with gray in their said. “I’ve seen guys that are 28, 29 not be Fbeards who have been there before, roo- able to make some plays that 20- and 21- kies are stealing the show early in this NHL postseason. year-olds have been able to make, and it’s Three rookie goaltenders have won a game, the de- just having that mental makeup of calm- Kaprizov fending Stanley Cup champions are getting major pro- ing everything down.” duction from a rookie forward and the likely rookie of Sixteen of the 27 rookie skaters who have appeared in the the year has found his groove after a rocky start. playoffs have at least one point, but the calm confidence is From New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin, coming from the rookie goaltenders who have been playing Carolina’s Alex Nedeljkovic and Florida’s Spencer like veterans. Knight making saves to Tampa Bay’s Ross Colton and Minnesota’s Kirill Kaprizov scoring goals, the first round SEE PUCK ON PAGE 21

Packers: Rodgers ordeal not a distraction ›› NFL, Page 22