MOVIES: Sean Penn directs daughter in ‘Flag Day’ Page 15 NFL Former Air Force MUSIC: Los Lobos’ cadet ready to LA love letter Page 28 take off with Jets Page 48 GAMES: Flight Simulator gives a feel for aviation Page 18

stripes.com

Volume 80 Edition 90 ©SS 2021 FRIDAY,AUGUST 20, 2021 $1.00 Afghan protesters challenge Taliban Demonstrations met with violent response for 2nd straight day

BY AHMAD SEIR, RAHIM FAIEZ, KATHY GANNON AND JON GAMBRELL Associated Press KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghan protesters defied the Taliban for a second day Thursday, waving their national flag in scattered demonstrations, and the fighters again responded violently as they faced down growing challenges to their rule. A U.N. official warned of dire food shortages and experts said the country was severely in need of cash while noting that the Tali- ban are unlikely to enjoy the gen- erous international aid that the ci- vilian government they dethroned did. In light of these challenges, the Taliban have moved quickly to suppress any dissent, despite their promises that they have become more moderate since they last ruled Afghanistan with draconian laws. Many fear they will succeed in erasing two decades of efforts to expand women’s and human RAHMAT GUL/AP rights and remake the country. Taliban fighters patrol in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Thursday. The Taliban celebrated Afghanistan’s Independence Day by declaring they beat the On Thursday, a procession of United States, but challenges to their rule have begun to emerge. cars and people near Kabul’s air- port carried long black, red and green banners in honor of the Af- ‘They kind of need help everywhere’: ghan flag — a banner that is be- coming a symbol of defiance. At US troops put in long hours in Qatar another protest in Nangarhar province, video posted online BY CHAD GARLAND Cargo plane and refueler activity in the air showed a bleeding demonstrator Stars and Stripes suggested crews were about on target for the with a gunshot wound. Onlookers Military personnel are working around the Pentagon’s one-flight-per-hour pace for the tried to carry him away. clock at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar to facilitate evacuation, said the resident, who wanted to In Khost province, Taliban au- the U.S. airlift from Afghanistan this week, highlight the “flex and give” the operation re- thorities instituted a 24-hour cur- while others launched clothing drives and vol- quired, referring to added workloads and few Thursday after violently unteer efforts, base residents said. hardships. breaking up another protest, ac- People dragged cots and mattresses into “It’s going to put strains everywhere,” he U.S. Air Force cording to information obtained their offices in an operations center, said one said of the effect the mission would have on An Afghan child sleeps on the cargo floor of by journalists monitoring from resident Wednesday, who asked not to be personnel, facilities and equipment. a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III, kept abroad. The authorities did not named because he was not authorized to speak warm by the uniform of the C-17 loadmaster, to the media. SEE QATAR ON PAGE 9 during an evacuation flight Sunday. SEE CHALLENGE ON PAGE 8 PAGE 2 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 BUSINESS/WEATHER

EUROPE GAS PRICES EXCHANGE RATES

Country Super E10 Super unleaded Super plus Diesel  Military rates South Korea (Won) 1177.16 Germany $3.434 $3.889 $4.142 $3.616 Azores .. .. $4.057 .. Switzerland (Franc) .9171 Euro costs (Aug. 20) $1.14 Change in price +0.2 cents +0.5 cents +0.8 cents ­0.8 cents Change in price .. .. +0.8 cents .. Thailand (Baht) 33.34 Dollar buys (Aug. 20) 0.8334 Turkey (NewLira) 8.5273 Netherlands .. $4.338 $4.633 +$4.200 Belgium .. $3.288 $3.576 $3.376 British pound (Aug. 20) $1.33 Japanese yen (Aug. 20) 107.00 Change in price .. +4.5 cents +4.7 cents ­1.0 cents Change in price .. No change No change No change (Military exchange rates are those available South Korean won (Aug. 20) 1143.00 to customers at military banking facilities in the U.K. .. $3.803 $4.056 $3.530 Turkey .. .. $3.942 $4.316* Commercial rates country of issuance for Japan, South Korea, Ger­ Change in price .. +0.5 cents +0.8 cents +0.8 cents Change in price .. .. +0.8 cents No change many, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Bahrain(Dinar) .3770 For nonlocal currency exchange rates (i.e., pur­ Britain (Pound) 1.3690 chasing British pounds in Germany), check with Canada (Dollar) 1.2757 your local military banking facility. Commercial China(Yuan) 6.4915 rates are interbank rates provided for reference PACIFIC GAS PRICES Denmark (Krone) 6.3567 Egypt (Pound) 15.7231 when buying currency. All figures are foreign Country Super E10 Super unleaded Super plus Diesel  Euro .8548 currencies to one dollar, except for the British Japan .. $3.949 .. $3.419 South Korea $3.249 .. $3.959 $3.439 Hong Kong (Dollar) 7.7909 pound, which is represented in dollars­to­ pound, and the euro, which is dollars­to­euro.) Change in price .. +1.0 cents .. ­1.0 cents Change in price No change .. +1.0 cents No change Hungary (Forint) 399.72 Israel (Shekel) 3.2496 Okinawa $3.239 .. .. $3.419 Guam $3.249 $3.709 $3.959 .. Japan (Yen) 109.74 INTEREST RATES Kuwait(Dinar) .3011 Change in price No change .. .. ­1.0 cents Change in price No change +1.0 cents +1.0 cents .. Norway (Krone) 9.0017 Prime rate 3.25 Philippines (Peso) 50.46 Interest Rates Discount rate 0.75 *DieselEFD **Midgrade Poland (Zloty) 3.92 Federal funds market rate 0.09 Saudi Arabia (Riyal) 3.7505 3­month bill 0.07 For the week of Aug. 20-26 Singapore (Dollar) 1.3631 30­year bond 1.91 WEATHER OUTLOOK FRIDAY IN THE MIDDLE EAST FRIDAY IN EUROPE SATURDAY IN THE PACIFIC

Misawa 73/68

Kabul Seoul 78/72 Baghdad 109/76 Osan Tokyo Kandahar Drawsko 78/72 82/73 Mildenhall/ Pomorskie Busan Lakenheath 64/58 78/75 72/57 Iwakuni Kuwait City 78/75 Bahrain Zagan Sasebo Guam 103/84 95/91 Brussels Ramstein 67/62 79/76 71/59 71/53 83/80 Riyadh Lajes, 105/80 Doha Azores Stuttgart 101/87 74/71 71/60 Pápa Aviano/ 76/62 Vicenza 80/60

Naples 83/73 Okinawa Morón 83/80 96/71 Sigonella Rota 90/68 The weather is provided by the Djibouti 81/68 Souda Bay American Forces Network Weather Center, 103/83 80/75 2nd Weather Squadron at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.

TODAY IN STRIPES American Roundup ..... 36 Classified ...... 37 Comics ...... 38-39 Crossword ...... 38-39 Faces ...... 35 Opinion ...... 40 Sports ...... 41-48 Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 3 MILITARY

US soldiers are still preserving peace ‘Forgotten Battalion’ in Kosovo after more than two decades

BY SLOBODAN LEKIC ians on both sides the breathing Stars and Stripes space they need to sit down at the CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo table and discuss how to resolve — The U.S.-led NATO force that their differences,” said Hopkins, has been keeping the peace for who also heads KFOR’s Regional more than 20 years is on guard Command East headquartered at against disinformation campaigns this austere base. aimed at stoking inter-ethnic ten- After his unit completes its de- sions in Europe’s youngest nation, ployment, it will be followed by the officials said. Virginia Army National Guard Security in Kosovo remains sta- next spring. Each rotation typical- ble overall. But Washington and its ly lasts between nine and 12 NATO allies have no plans to re- months. duce the Kosovo Force — or KFOR KFOR currently includes about — which is still considered essen- 3,600 peacekeepers from 27 na- tial in maintaining peace between tions. The United States has the the Albanian majority and Serb largest contingent, with 660 minority, whose rivalry erupted in troops, most of them based at this a war in the late 1990s in which at sprawling facility in central Koso- least 10,000 people died. vo. “I have no indication of any U.S. Italy has 542 soldiers and Hun- drawdown,” said Col. Brey Hop- gary nearly 400. Some countries, kins, who commands the 86th In- such as Sweden or tiny Montene- fantry Brigade Combat Team gro, contribute just a couple of offi- (Mountain) of the Vermont Army cers each. National Guard, which arrived in The U.S. group, which during Kosovo in July for a regular nine- the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan month deployment. became known as the “Forgotten After a bombing campaign in Battalion,” has traditionally been 1999, the international coalition the biggest part of the NATO force, evicted Serb troops from what was which has shrunk steadily from a then a southern province of a high of about 50,000 in 2000. PHOTOS BY SLOBODAN LEKIC/Stars and Stripes greatly reduced Yugoslavia. Koso- Despite its relatively small size, Col. Brey Hopkins, right, talks to Capt. Jeffrey Jace Rivard of the Vermont Army National Guard at Camp vo, about 90% of whose 1.8 million it consists of elements from 11 state Bondsteel in Kosovo. people are ethnic Albanians, uni- National Guards, as well as Army laterally declared independence Reserve and active-duty troops. that KFOR allow Serbian police from Serbia in 2008. But Belgrade While the headquarters and ma- and army units to deploy in order insists that it remains Serbian ter- neuver battalion are from Ver- to defend their compatriots. These ritory. mont, the aviation task force is have been countered by reports in Since then, the two sides have made up of troops from the Con- some Albanian-language outlets, engaged in sporadic talks aimed at necticut, Maryland, New Hamp- which also have stoked tensions. resolving the decades-old ethnic shire and Puerto Rico National “The primary point is to track rift. Guards. those information operations to They agreed last year at the Security has improved vastly in make sure they don’t become a White House to normalize some the past several years, Hopkins destabilizing factor,” Hopkins economic and energy issues, but said. Most incidents between Ko- said. there has been no progress on the sovars and Serbs now involve de- Several U.S. service members political dispute. The main stick- rogatory graffiti, with occasional interviewed at Bondsteel said they ing point remains Kosovo’s insist- flare-ups of stone throwing and were glad to be contributing to the ence that Belgrade recognize its petty crime. peace. Soldiers who had served in independence, which Serbia re- Still, KFOR keeps a close eye on the Balkans previously said they fuses to even discuss. possible sources of inter-ethnic were surprised by the amount of While Kosovo has been recog- tensions, including “information economic progress in the region nized by the U.S. and most Europe- operations by both sides,” Hop- since the early 2000s. an Union nations, Belgrade has re- kins said. Pvt. Katja Langmaid, from the lied on support from Russia and Serbia’s pro-government media 186th Brigade Support Battalion, Spc. Timothy Gillis, 30, of Denton, Md., is a maintainer with the China in its bid to maintain its has been running numerous alar- said she particularly enjoys her 169th Aviation Regiment of the Maryland National Guard. At Camp claim to its former province. mist stories about the situation in work as a member of the liaison Bondsteel he maintains the base’s UH­60 Black Hawk helicopters. “The purpose (of KFOR) is to Kosovo, claiming that Serbs there team monitoring an ethnic Serb keep a secure and safe environ- are under “daily attack” by extre- community located in a majority- during the deployment without who served in the Balkans in the ment in order to allow the politic- mist Albanians, and demanding Albanian area, where tensions still charge to their leave time. 1990s, said he’s glad to be at Camp occasionally rise up. “There could be a lot worse de- Bondsteel because it gives him a “We go out to meet with the pop- ployments than Kosovo,” said Spc. chance to see how much progress ulace, the village elders and po- Timothy Gillis, of the Maryland has been made since the wars that licemen to feel the pulse of the Army National Guard’s 169th affected the region more than two place,” said the 28-year-old from Aviation Regiment, a Denton, Md., decades ago. Swanton, Vt. resident who serves as a helicopter “It makes my heart happy to see The reception has generally mechanic. “It’s my first deploy- it good now, for lack of a better been very good, she said. ment and I plan to make the best of term,” said Newell, of Milton, Vt. Swanton said she enjoys visiting it.” “When we were here before, ev- old fortresses that dot the land- Camp Bondsteel, set among roll- erything was very fresh. There scape, adding that she plans to ing hills and farmland near the were a lot of people displaced, spend her leave traveling in Eu- town of Ferizaj in central Kosovo, there were a lot of families shat- rope. covers about 955 acres. The perim- tered (and) towns and villages. “Just being here, the history in eter is about 7 miles long at the “To be back in this area and see Europe is so much older than what base, which houses about 1,000 things moving well forward and we have in the U.S.,” she said. troops from the U.S., Turkey, Po- people getting along well … it’s a Guardsmen normally get a full land and Latvia in wooden bar- full circle.” Two members of the Vermont Army National Guard walk down the month of leave after Kosovo as racks. flight line at Camp Bondsteel. well as rest and recreation breaks Sgt. 1st Class Will Newell, 46, [email protected] PAGE 4 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 PACIFIC Rupp set to lead US Forces Japan, 5th Air Force

BY SETH ROBSON horse airlifter that is the mainstay at Stars and Stripes Yokota. Rupp has served tours of YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Air Force Maj. Gen. Ricky Rupp will among other deployments. assume command of U.S. Forces Ja- He holds a bachelor’s degree in pan and 5th Air Force on Aug. 27, ac- accounting from Southwest Texas cording to Indo-Pacific Command. State University and a master’s in SETH ROBSON/Stars and Stripes Rupp will be applied science, aeronautical sci- This Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero fighter is on display at the Kawaguchiko Zero Fighter Museum in Japan. The promoted to lieu- ence, from Embry-Riddle Aeronau- Japanese built almost 11,000 Zeros during World War II but only a handful are still airworthy today. tenant general tical University, along with other before assuming post-graduate degrees. his new, dual-hat- Rupp will take over from Air ted commands at Force Lt. Gen. Kevin Schneider, Rare Zero fighters on display Yokota, in west- who has led USFJ since February ern Tokyo, ac- 2019, during a period of increased cording to an IN- tension with China and challenges in August at Japanese museum Rupp DOPACOM caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. BY SETH ROBSON according to the National Air and fense Force. statement Thursday. USFJ oversees 50,000 American Stars and Stripes Space Museum in Washington, Along with a the Zeros, the Kawa- Rupp was previously command- troops stationed in Japan and the 5th KAWAGUCHIKO, Japan — The D.C. guchiko museum includes the tail er of Air Force District of Washing- Air Force is its air component. USFJ Mitsubishi A6M fighter, commonly The museum, open daily during section of Mitsubishi G4M Betty ton, D.C., and director of operations is also a go-between with Japan for known as the Zero, could outma- August from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is part bomber flown by the Imperial Ja- at the U.S. Transportation Com- the U.S. military. neuver every airplane it encoun- of a facility that was built in 1981 by panese Navy Air Service. mand, according to the Air Force’s The INDOPACOM chief, Navy tered when the Japanese swept former race car driver Nobuo Ha- Adm. Isoroku Yamamoto, who official website. Adm. John Aquilino, will preside across the Pacific at the start of rada. led the attack on Pearl Harbor in He was nominated by President over the USFJ change of command World War II. Initially, its collection featured 1941, died when the Betty he was Joe Biden on Aug. 2 for promotion to and the Pacific Air Forces com- The Allies eventually built planes only antique cars, but it grew to in- traveling in was shot down over Pa- lieutenant general and command of mander, Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, that were almost as agile, with more clude a warehouse full of restored pua New Guinea by a U.S. Air Force USFJ and 5th Air Force, according will preside over the 5th Air Force firepower and superior armor. But Japanese military planes reco- Lockheed P-38 Lightning fighter on to a Defense Department news re- change of command, according to the Zero, in the war’s last stages put vered from Pacific battlefields. April 18, 1943. lease. the INDOPACOM statement. to use for kamikaze attacks, has re- The aircraft collection includes The Kawaguchiko museum also As a pilot, Rupp has more than tained its mystique as one of the ulti- three Zeros. A fourth, restored by displays a Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabu-

4,800 flying hours in various air- [email protected] mate dogfighters. museum staff, is displayed at the sa/Oscar fighter flown by the Impe- craft, including the C-130, the work- Twitter: @SethRobson1 During August, some of the few Yushukan Museum at the Yasuku- rial Japanese Army Air Service. surviving examples of the legend- ni shrine in Tokyo. Outside, the museum also has on ary aircraft are on display at the Ka- Near the aircraft, a video shows display several F-86F Sabre fight- waguchiko Zero Fighter Museum Japanese troops dragging Zeros off ers that were flown by the Japan Air COVID-19 wave in Tokyo in Yamanashi prefecture, about an a runway into a field next to Naval Self-Defense Force from the 1950s. hour’s drive from western Tokyo. Air Station Atsugi in preparation Sabres saw more than their share of Admission is 1,500 yen, or a little for the arrival of U.S. Army Gen. combat with the U.S. Air Force dur- above 5K; US military in less than $15 USD. Douglas MacArthur in 1945. The ing the Korean War. The Japanese built almost 11,000 base, in Kanagawa prefecture, is Zeros during the war but only a now a joint base shared by the U.S. Japan has 14 new cases [email protected] handful are still airworthy today, Navy and Japan Maritime Self-De- Twitter: @SethRobson1 BY JOSEPH DITZLER Thursday reported that 14 people Stars and Stripes had contracted the virus. TOKYO — Japan’s capital city The Marine Corps said 11 people logged a second consecutive day of associated with its force on Okinawa Marines’ Camp Blaz on Guam receives more than 5,000 people newly in- tested positive, according to a Face- fected with the coronavirus. book post by Marine Corps Installa- more building contracts totaling $134.5M The Tokyo Metropolitan Govern- tions Pacific. ment reported 5,534 new coronavi- Okinawa prefecture reported an- BY ALEX WILSON build the bachelor officer quarters. United States is spending another rus cases Thursday, according to other record-breaking day Thurs- Stars and Stripes The Navy has awarded $936.5 $5.7 billion. public broadcaster NHK. The city day with 768 new cases, seven more The Navy approved two more million in contracts to build por- Will Boudra, Guam program has reported more than 5,000 new than the previous high set Wednes- construction contracts this week to- tions of Camp Blaz since the Marine management office director for Na- cases five times since Aug. 5. The day, according to the prefectural taling $134.5 million for facilities on Corps commissioned the base in val Facilities Engineering Systems pandemic peak in Tokyo was 5,773 Department of Public Health and Camp Blaz, the new Marine Corps October 2020. It’s the first new Ma- Command Pacific Guam, said in on Aug. 13, according to metro data. Medical Care. One person also died, base on Guam expected to absorb rine installation since the activation the release that with the officer About 3,800 people are hospital- the prefecture reported. troops relocated from Okinawa. in 1952 of Marine Corps Logistics quarters contract, all 18 construc- ized in the city, with 274 of them in Naval Air Facility Atsugi, 26 Cadell-Nan Joint Venture, of Base Albany in Georgia. tion projects in the agreement for serious condition, according to the miles southwest of Tokyo, said three Montgomery, Ala., was awarded a Camp Blaz is expected to accom- fiscal year 2021 have been award- city and NHK. people turned up positive in tests $36.5 million contract Tuesday to modate 5,000 members of the III ed. Japan reached a new high Thursday, according to a news re- build the warehouse at Marine Marine Expeditionary Force who Plans for the bachelor officer Wednesday with 23,987 new cases, lease from the base. Corps Base Camp Blaz, according are set to move in over the next five quarters call for a housing tower according to the Johns Hopkins Two were identified as close con- to a news release that day from Na- years from Okinawa. and one-story common area wing. Coronavirus Resource Center. An- tacts and the third is a recent arrival val Facilities Engineering Systems Japan is paying $3 billion to build The building is scheduled for com- other 30 people died, according to to Japan. The air facility has 10 peo- Command. portions of Camp Blaz, including pletion May 2024. Johns Hopkins. ple under observation. In a separate release on the same the officer quarters and the ware- The warehouse is expected to be More than 39% of Japan’s popula- day, the command announced that house, under the Defense Policy completed by 2023. tion, or 49.4 million people, are fully Stars and Stripes reporter Mari Higa in Okinawa Black Construction-Tutor Perini Review Initiative, an agreement to contributed to this report. vaccinated, the center reported. [email protected] Joint Venture, based at Harmon, relocate some Marine Corps avia- [email protected] U.S. military bases in Japan on Twitter: @JosephDitzler Guam, won a $98 million contract to tion assets from Okinawa. The Twitter: @AlexMNWilson Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 5 MILITARY Honor Flight hosts vets in DC for 1st time since pandemic US Navy in Naples

BY NIKKI WENTLING or Flight gathered for photos, then a Stars and Stripes Color Guard presented flags. The WASHINGTON — More than 100 group recited the Pledge of Alle- orders masks for veterans — some standing, others in giance, sang the national anthem, wheelchairs — gathered shoulder- listened to taps and took a moment to-shoulder Wednesday in front of of silence. They also took a few min- the World War II Memorial, saluted utes to walk around the memorial the American flag and sang the na- before loading back onto their char- most indoor places tional anthem in unison. ter buses, which would take them to The veterans were part of the first their next stop. CARLOS BONGIOANNI/Stars and Stripes BY ALISON BATH tal Wednesday and another 20 Honor Flight in 17 months. The The veterans in Washington on Members of a military honor Stars and Stripes were in intensive care. There Honor Flight Network, which sends Wednesday came from Chicago. guard stand at attention as Army NAPLES, Italy — The high were 558 new cases. veterans to Washington to see the Their group included 76 Vietnam veteran Ron Raczak arrives at number of delta variant cases of The U.S. Centers for Disease war memorials, suspended flights War veterans, 34 Korean War veter- the World War II Memorial in COVID-19 in Italy’s southern Control and Prevention says com- Washington on Wednesday. at the start of the coronavirus pan- ans and 3 World War II veterans. Campania region has triggered a munity transmission levels are demic in March 2020. Vietnam War veteran Steven Wil- mandatory indoor mask order at substantial when new cases aver- “Honor Flight trips have long liams, 73, was part of the group. Wil- officer for the Honor Flight Net- Naval Support Activity Naples, age 50 to 99.99 per 100,000 people been called, ‘the experience of a life- liams, a Navy veteran from Down- work, said the 2021 season would be base officials said Thursday. over seven days. time’ for veterans, but today’s long- ers Grove, Ill., had never been to abbreviated. About 25,000 veterans Indoor masks at the NSA Naples Exceptions to the NSA Naples awaited return has made the emo- Washington, and he hadn’t been on are typically invited to Washington Capodichino and Gricignano di mandatory indoor mask order in- tions of experiencing these memo- an airplane in 20 years. He signed on Honor Flights each year from Aversa sites are now mandatory clude people in their own home, rials indescribable,” said David up for an Honor Flight several years March through November. regardless of vaccination status, those working alone in an office Smith, president and chairman of ago and was put on the waitlist. Besides the shorter season, there the base said in a post to its Face- the Honor Flight Network board of “When they called, I was sur- are fewer veterans this year be- with a closed door, or those eating book page. Wearing masks out- directors. prised, actually,” Williams said. “I cause the group is trying to imple- or drinking with proper social dis- Wednesday’s Honor Flight was didn’t think I’d ever get called.” ment social distancing. In addition, doors is required if social distanc- tancing. the first of 124 scheduled flights for Billy Reed, 75, was also surprised the network is requiring all veter- ing of 6 feet or more cannot be Children under 2 years old, peo- the remainder of 2021. In total, about to get the call. Reed, an Army veter- ans, guardians and volunteers to be maintained. ple with a documented medical 8,300 veterans are scheduled to an who served in Vietnam, joined vaccinated against the coronavirus Italy reported 69 COVID-19 necessity and those actively work- come through Washington in that the Honor Flight waitlist in 2007. He or take a coronavirus test 72 hours deaths Wednesday, an increase ing out in a gym were also exclud- time frame. and four other veterans from his before the flight departs, Harlow over 54 the day before, according ed from wearing a mask indoors, After a heavy rain Wednesday af- post-traumatic stress disorder said. to the Italian Health Ministry. the base said. ternoon, the sun broke through the group were all included on the same New infections grew to 7,162 from clouds just in time for a short cere- flight, he said. [email protected] 5,273. In Campania, 336 people [email protected] mony. The 113 veterans on the Hon- Carol Harlow, communications Twitter: @nikkiwentling with COVID-19 were in the hospi- Twitter: @TMSWatchdog PAGE 6 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 MILITARY 2 US destroyers arrive in Japan, third pulls out

BY ALEX WILSON naval weapons system for air and Stars and Stripes fleet defense against enemy air- YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, craft and cruise missiles, accord- Japan — Two replacement de- ing to a Pacific Fleet news release. stroyers took up their new stations The destroyer arrived in 1996 at the home of the U.S. 7th Fleet and during its stay in the Western CARLA OCAMPO/U.S. Navy this week, and another destroyer Pacific took part in Operation To- The guided­missile destroyer USS Higgins, shown here in the Western Pacific in 2013, arrived at with a 25-year history in the Indo- modachi, the recovery effort that Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, with the destroyer USS Howard on Monday. Pacific region departed. followed the 2011 earthquake and The USS Higgins and the USS The Higgins and the Howard ization, 7th Fleet spokesman Lt. Most recently, the Higgins was tsunami in eastern Japan, human- Howard, two Arleigh Burke-class are now part of the 7th Fleet’s De- Mark Langford told Stars and part of the USS Carl Vinson carri- itarian relief in East Timor, sanc- guided-missile destroyers, ar- stroyer Squadron 15, a component Stripes in an email Tuesday. er strike group. tions enforcement against North rived at Yokosuka Naval Base on of Task Force 71, which frequently The Stethem left in 2019 for San The Howard, commissioned in Korea and many other missions. Monday, according to a U.S. Navy deploys with the USS Ronald Re- Diego and the McCampbell left in 2001, has routinely operated in the news release that day. “For the last 25 years, the ‘Steel agan carrier strike group. July 2020 for Portland, Ore. Eastern Pacific and Western Pa- Wednesday, the guided-missile Hammer of the Fleet’ boldly “These two ships will be an in- Both the Higgins and the Ho- cific regions. It completed a sev- destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur sailed the Indo-Pacific as part of tegral part of the 7th Fleet team ward have seen prior service with en-month deployment with the 7th steamed for San Diego, where it’s the long grey line of warships of for years to come,” Sargeant said the 7th Fleet. Fleet in 2014, and was also part of scheduled for maintenance with Destroyer Squadron 15 that main- in the release. The Higgins, commissioned in the USS Nimitz and Carl Vinson the 3rd Fleet, according to the U.S. tained the freedom of the seas and The two destroyers are replac- 1999, in May 2018 conducted a carrier strike groups, according to Pacific Fleet. protection of our national inter- ing sister ships the USS McCamp- freedom-of-navigation patrol with the U.S. Navy. The Curtis Wilbur was the first ests,” the Pacific Fleet quoted bell and the USS Stethem, both of the guided-missile cruiser USS

U.S. destroyer deployed to Japan Capt. Chase Sargeant, command- which departed the region over Antietam through the South China [email protected] with the Aegis Combat System, a er of Task Force 71, as saying. the past three years for modern- Sea near the Paracel Islands. Twitter: @AlexMNWilson Marines: Fallen Osprey pieces larger than reported BY MATTHEW M. BURKE that information and told the bureau the Government spokespeople in Japan typ- AND MARI HIGA panel was actually about 3 ½ by 2 ¼ feet and ically speak to the media on condition of ano- Stars and Stripes nearly an inch thick, a bureau spokesman nymity as a condition of their employment. CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa — The Marine told Stars and Stripes by phone Thursday. On Thursday, Kunze attributed the error Corps on Wednesday told Japanese author- The panel is normally situated above the to darkness and strict reporting require- ities on Okinawa that two pieces that fell cockpit, he said. ments. from an MV-22B Osprey last week were He said the fairing, from the right engine “They got back in the middle of the night, much larger than the Marines first de- cover, measures 17 by 17 inches. and they have to report those within a few scribed them. The crew did not see the parts fall from hours,” he said by phone to Stars and A spokesman for the Okinawa Defense the aircraft and no injuries or damage have Stripes. “With it being on the top, and the Bureau, an arm of the Japan Ministry of De- been reported, Kunze wrote in an email to wing, and it was dark, that was their best es- fense, on Thursday said that information Stars and Stripes on Monday. timate at the time.” raised more questions. Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki said he was The Marines sent the correct measure- “There was no explanation on how the “infuriated” by the incident and called for ments to Japanese and prefectural officials mistake was made,” the bureau spokesman MICHAEL LIEBERKNECHT/U.S. Navy an immediate cessation of flight operations as soon as they had them, he said. said. “We are currently waiting for addition- An MV­22 Osprey lands on the flight deck at the U.S. base. The Marines declined to do The pieces have still not been found, al information from the U.S. side.” of the amphibious assault ship USS so. Kunze said. He said they were likely lost The Osprey crew reported a panel and a Bataan on Oct. 29, 2013. Prefectural officials said they were equal- over water and may wash up on shore. piece of fairing missing when the tilt-rotor ly confused by the error. The Marine Corps is investigating the aircraft returned around 9:30 p.m. Aug. 12 to Ken Kunze on Monday. “The panel suddenly became bigger,” a cause of the incident. Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Gino- The Marines told the defense bureau the prefectural spokesman told Stars and wan. The crew had flown back, mostly over panel measured 14 by 18 inches and the fair- Stripes by phone on Thursday. “Until we re- [email protected] Twitter: @MatthewMBurke1 water, from the Central Training Area, ac- ing measured 9 by 3, Kunze said at the time. ceive confirming information, I don’t think [email protected] cording to 1st Marine Wing spokesman Maj. Wednesday, the Marine Corps corrected there is much to say.” Twitter: @MariHiga21 Marine Corps Marathon still registering for in-person, virtual events

Stars and Stripes races were held because of the limited this year, and social-dis- virus rules from traveling to the will receive a T-shirt, a runner’s Entries were still available this coronavirus pandemic. tancing rules will be applied at the U.S., can compete in a virtual bib, a medal and other souvenirs week for the 46th Marine Corps Entries are also available for start of the races, where runners marathon or 50K race, but the for completing the race. Marathon, which will be held in the 10K race and the 50K ultram- will be grouped in corrals based 10K virtual race has sold out. De- More than 30,000 runners took person Oct. 31. arathon, which will be held the on their expected finishing times. ployed service members and part in the marathon in October In recent years, the popular same day as the marathon. More restrictions could be in those stationed overseas are con- 2019, the last time it was held live. race has sold out within minutes All the races will be in Wash- force on race day to protect run- sidered U.S. entries. Entries are available at http:// of registration opening in the ington, D.C., and Virginia, taking ners and volunteers against the Virtual runners must register, www.marinemarathon.com/ spring. in iconic monuments and memo- virus, the race organizers said. pay a fee and complete the dis- events/marathon/registration/. In-person events were can- rials along their routes. International runners, many of tance of the race they’ve chosen celed last year, and only virtual Numbers of runners will be whom are still barred by corona- between Oct. 1 and Nov. 11. They [email protected] Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 7 AFGHANISTAN Biden: Greater threats than Taliban-governed Afghanistan Associated Press den administration has faced evacuation. WASHINGTON — President sharp criticism for the timing and The question of whether those Joe Biden says even with the Tali- direction of the Afghanistan with- seeking to leave the country be- ban in power in Afghanistan, he drawal, after the Taliban came to fore Biden’s deadline should be sees a greater threat from out- power more quickly than admin- rescued and brought to the air- posts of al-Qaida and its affiliated istration officials predicted. The port has arisen amid reports that groups in other countries, and swift takeover by the Taliban Taliban checkpoints have stop- that it was no longer “rational” to prompted scenes of chaos and vi- ped some designated evacuees. continue to focus U.S. military olence as thousands of Afghans “I don’t have the capability to power there. and Americans sought to flee the go out and extend operations cur- “We should be focusing on country. rently into Kabul,” Austin said. where the threat is the greatest,” Biden also pushed back against “And where do you take that? HEIDI VOGT/AP Biden said in an interview that concerns about the treatment of How far do you extend into Ka- A U.S. soldier stands guard at a checkpoint at Gulruddin pass in Sar aired on ABC’s “Good Morning women and girls in the country, bul, and how long does it take to Hawza district of Paktika province in 2011. America” Thursday. arguing that it’s “not rational” to flow those forces in to be able to “And the idea we can continue try to protect women’s rights do that?” to spend a trillion dollars, and around the globe through mili- Austin, a retired four-star Ar- Poll: Afghan war disliked have tens of thousands of Amer- tary force. Instead, it should be my general who commanded ican forces in Afghanistan, when done through “diplomatic and in- forces in Afghanistan, spoke at we have North Africa and West- ternational pressure” on human his first Pentagon news confer- amid chaotic withdrawal ern Africa — the idea we can do rights abusers to change their be- ence since the Taliban swept to Associated Press probably should stay after seeing, that and ignore those looming havior. power in Kabul on Sunday. WASHINGTON — A significant I guess you’d say, the trouble problems, growing problems, is Up to 15,000 Americans remain He said the State Department majority of Americans doubt that we’ve caused.” not rational.” in Afghanistan after the Taliban was sending more consular af- the war in Afghanistan was worth- Roughly two-thirds also suggest Biden has said repeatedly that took full control of the nation last fairs officers to speed up the proc- while, even as the United States is the Iraq War that coincided with America will not send significant- weekend. Biden said during the essing of evacuees. more divided over President Joe Afghanistan was a mistake. Re- ly more forces to fight in Afghan- same interview that he’s commit- “We’re not close to where we Biden’s handling of foreign policy publicans are somewhat more istan. The U.S. has not had tens of ted to keeping U.S. troops in Af- want to be” in terms of the pace of and national security, according likely than Democrats to say the thousands there for several years ghanistan until every American the airlift, Austin said. to a poll from The Associated wars in both countries were worth and had 2,500 to 3,000 deployed is evacuated, even if that means He said he was mainly focused Press-NORC Center for Public Af- fighting. About 4 in 10 Republi- there when Biden took office. maintaining a military presence on the airport, which faced “a fairs Research. cans do, compared with about 3 in Biden named Syria and East beyond his Aug. 31 deadline for number of threats” that must be Roughly two-thirds said they 10 Democrats. Africa as places where the Islam- withdrawal. monitored. did not think America’s longest Deborah Fulkerson of Pueblo, ic State poses a “significantly Defense Secretary Lloyd Aus- “We cannot afford to either not war was worth fighting, the poll Colo., believes it would be wise for greater threat” than in Afghanis- tin said earlier Wednesday that defend that airfield or not have an shows. Meanwhile, 47% approve the U.S. to remain in Afghanistan. tan and said that ISIS has “metas- the U.S. military does not have airfield that’s secure, where we of Biden’s management of inter- “I feel like us having a presence tasized.” He said while the U.S. the forces and firepower in Af- have hundreds or thousands of ci- national affairs, while 52% ap- there just keeps things more neu- doesn’t have a sizable military ghanistan to expand its current vilians that can access the air- prove of Biden on national securi- tral and safer there for those peo- presence in a place like Syria, it mission from securing the Kabul field,” he said, adding that talks ty. ple and for us,” said the 62-year- does have an “over the horizon airport to collecting Americans with the Taliban were continuing The poll was conducted Aug. 12- old, who describes herself as capability to take them out.” and at-risk Afghans elsewhere in to ensure safe passage for those 16 as the two-decade war in Af- “more conservative,” particularly The comments come as the Bi- the capital and escorting them for evacuating. ghanistan ended with the Taliban on social issues. returning to power and capturing Fulkerson acknowledged that the capital of Kabul. Biden has she does not follow Afghanistan faced bipartisan condemnation in that closely, saying she is more Washington for sparking a hu- concerned with gas prices and lo- manitarian crisis by being ill-pre- cal news. pared for the speed of the Tali- “I’m a Christian and I know ban’s advance. where my future lies, and all of The president has stood by his this stuff that’s going on that I have decision to exit the country, insist- no control over except through ing that he will not allow the war to prayer, I just can’t watch it all the continue indefinitely and betting time,” she said. “I would be nega- that Americans agree with him. tive all the time.” Mark Sohl is among those who About half of Americans say do. The 62-year-old Democrat they are extremely or very con- from Topeka, Kan., said “it wasn’t cerned about the threat to the U.S. worth losing more American lives posed by extremist groups based over a mess.” outside of the United States; about Sohl added: “After 20 years, you another one-third are moderately got to cut loose.” concerned. Only about 1 in 10 say Others felt more conflicted after they are not concerned. seeing grim scenes in Afghanistan But nearly 20 years after the even if they opposed the war over- Sept. 11 attacks that spurred the all. In one image likely to endure, Afghanistan war, more Ameri- Afghans clung to U.S. military cans say they perceive the major planes in a desperate bid to flee national security threats as being the country internal. “I don’t believe we should have Roughly two-thirds say they are been in there to begin with,” said extremely or very concerned Sebastian Garcia, a 23-year-old about the threat of extremist Biden voter from Lubbock, Texas, groups based inside the United who said he had three cousins States. About one-quarter are serve in Afghanistan. “But now somewhat concerned, and about 1 that we’re leaving, I do feel we in 10 are not concerned. PAGE 8 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 AFGHANISTAN Challenge: Future uncertain as trade, currency on edge

FROM PAGE 1 Beyond the difficulties of bring- ing in food to the landlocked na- immediately acknowledge the tion dependent on imports, she demonstration or the curfew. said that drought has seen over Protesters also took the streets 40% of the country’s crop lost. in Kunar province, according to Many who fled the Taliban ad- witnesses and social media videos vance now live in parks and open that lined up with reporting by spaces in Kabul. The Associated Press. “This is really Afghanistan’s The demonstrations — which hour of greatest need, and we urge come as Afghans celebrated Inde- the international community to pendence Day and some com- stand by the Afghan people at this memorated the Shiite Ashoura time,” she said. festival — were a remarkable Hafiz Ahmad, a shopkeeper in show of defiance after the Taliban Kabul, said some food has flowed VICTOR MANCILLA, U.S. MARINE CORPS/AP fighters violently dispersed a pro- into the capital, but prices have A boy is processed through an Evacuee Control Checkpoint during an evacuation at Hamid Karzai test Wednesday. At that rally, in gone up. He hesitated to pass International Airport, in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Wednesday. the eastern city of Jalalabad, dem- those costs onto his customers but onstrators lowered the Taliban’s said he had to. my Maj. Gen. Hank Taylor said of physical U.S. dollars is “close to selves as sort of gatekeepers to the flag and replace it with Afghanis- “It is better to have it,” he said. Thursday. zero,” which will batter the cur- international community as op- Overnight, President Joe Biden rency, the afghani. The U.S. has posed to coming begging for bil- tan’s tricolor. At least one person “If there were nothing, then that said that he was committed to apparently frozen the country’s lions of dollars,” he said. was killed. would be even worse.” keeping U.S. troops in Afghanis- foreign reserves, and the Interna- There has been no armed oppo- Meanwhile, opposition figures Two of Afghanistan’s key bor- tan until every American is evac- tional Monetary Fund cut off ac- sition to the Taliban. But videos gathering in the last area of the der crossings with Pakistan are uated, even if that means main- cess to loans or other resources for from the Panjshir Valley north of country not under Taliban rule now open for trade. However, taining a military presence there now. Kabul, a stronghold of the North- talked of launching an armed re- traders still fear insecurity on the beyond his Aug. 31 deadline for “The afghani has been defend- ern Alliance militias that allied sistance under the banner of the roads and confusion over customs withdrawal. ed by literally planeloads of U.S. with the U.S. during the 2001 inva- Northern Alliance, which allied duties that could push them to In an interview with ABC’s dollars landing in Kabul on a very sion of Afghanistan, appear to with the U.S. during the 2001 inva- price their goods higher. “Good Morning America,” Biden regular basis, sometimes weekly,” show potential opposition figures sion. Amid that uncertainty and con- said he didn’t believe the Taliban said Graeme Smith, a consultant gathering there. It was not clear how serious a cerns that the Taliban will reim- had changed. researcher with the Overseas De- Those figures include members threat they posed given that Tali- pose a brutal rule, which included “I think they’re going through velopment Institute. “If the Tali- of the deposed government — ban fighters overran nearly the largely confining women to their sort of an existential crisis about ban don’t get cash infusions soon Vice President Amrullah Saleh, entire country in a matter of days homes and holding public execu- do they want to be recognized by to defend the afghani, I think who asserted on Twitter that he is with little resistance from Afghan tions, many Afghans are trying to the international community as there’s a real risk of a currency de- the country’s rightful president, forces. flee the country. being a legitimate government,” valuation that makes it hard to buy and Defense Minister Gen. Bis- The Taliban so far have offered At Kabul’s international air- Biden said. “I’m not sure they do.” bread on the streets of Kabul for millah Mohammadi — as well as no specifics on how they will lead, port, military evacuation flights Indirectly acknowledging the ordinary people.” Ahmad Massoud, the son of the other than to say they will be guid- continued, but access to the air- resistance they face, the Taliban Still, Smith, who has written a slain Northern Alliance leader ed by Shariah, or Islamic, law. port remained difficult. On Thurs- on Thursday asked preachers to book on Afghanistan, said the Tali- Ahmad Shah Massoud. They are in talks with senior offi- day, Taliban fighters fired into the urge congregants to remain in the ban likely won’t ask for the same In an opinion piece published by cials of previous Afghan govern- air to try to control the crowds country and counter “negative billions in international aid sought The Washington Post, Massoud ments. But they face an increas- gathered at the airport’s blast propaganda” against them. by the country’s fallen civilian asked for weapons and aid to fight ingly precarious situation. walls. The Taliban have also urged government — large portions of the Taliban. “A humanitarian crisis of in- After a chaotic start that saw people to return to work, but most which were siphoned off by cor- “I write from the Panjshir Val- credible proportions is unfolding people rush the runway and cling government officials remain in ruption. That could limit the pow- ley today, ready to follow in my fa- before our eyes,” warned Mary to a plane taking off, the U.S. mil- hiding or are themselves attempt- er of the international communi- ther’s footsteps, with mujahideen Ellen McGroarty, the head of the itary is ramping up evacuations ing to flee. ty’s threat of sanctions. fighters who are prepared to once U.N.’s World Food Program in Af- and now has enough aircraft to get The head of the country’s Cen- “You’re much more likely to see again take on the Taliban,” he ghanistan. 5,000 to 9,000 people out a day, Ar- tral Bank warned that the supply the Taliban positioning them- wrote. US families mid-adoption try to get Afghan children out BY MICHELLE L. PRICE forced to turn back. “Once they get to the airport, it’s just a boy out of the country. Associated Press Mujtaba, who spoke to the boy and the matter of waiting time. But it’s a matter of Mary King, executive director of Frank After five frustrating years mired in bu- family early Tuesday, said they hope to try waiting a few hours or a few days,” Bahau- Adoption Center in Wake Forest, N.C., is reaucratic delays, Bahaudin Mujtaba and again to get to the airport Wednesday. din Mujtaba said. Noman is currently in working with the families and said they wife Lisa had hoped to finally bring the 10- “I have tears in my eyes this morning the custody of another family trying to had full permission from Afghan courts to year-old Afghan boy they’re adopting to and my wife has tears in her eyes,” he said. leave. bring the children to the U.S. and finalize their home in Florida this year for a chance “I couldn’t really say much else other than Maybe they can get the boy to a nearby the adoptions. They were awaiting U.S. vi- at a different future. ‘Go for it’ and ‘Be careful.’” country. Maybe Pakistan. Wherever they sas, but everything changed in the past few But with the collapse of the Afghan gov- The Taliban’s dramatic takeover of Af- go, he’s willing to fly there and meet him. days. ernment, the couple is desperately trying ghanistan has reverberated worldwide, “But the first goal is to get him out of Af- “This all came about much faster than to get the boy, Noman, on a flight out of Ka- and for families like the Mujtabas, the fal- ghanistan safely,” Mujtaba said. any of us anticipated, so we don’t know,” bul — going anywhere — before the lout has been swift, deeply personal and It’s unclear how many among the she said. “We have put them on every list. chance to leave disappears. potentially life-altering. Knowing the mil- throngs of people trying to flee Afghanis- We’ve filled out every form we’ve been In the chaos following the Taliban take- itant group is almost certain not to uphold tan include potential adoptive children. told about. Their names are everywhere over, Noman and another family tried to the adoption agreements from the col- One other U.S. family, based in Indiana, is we can get them, as far as with the appro- get to the airport Tuesday through clogged lapsed Afghan government, the American working with the same adoption agency as priate U.S. authorities. And so now we are streets, checkpoints and gunfire but were couple’s best hope is to get the boy out, fast. Mujtaba and is trying to get a 2-year-old waiting to hear what may happen next.” Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 9 AFGHANISTAN Qatar: Service members helping out beyond scheduled hours

FROM PAGE 1 The rapid Taliban advance last week caught the Biden adminis- tration flat-footed, leaving tens of thousands of Americans, allies and desperate Afghans stuck in the country awaiting the possibil- ity of evacuation — if they can get into Kabul’s Hamid Karzai Inter- national Airport, which is sur- rounded by armed Taliban mili- tants. The U.S. could have the capac- ity to evacuate 5,000 to 9,000 peo- ple each day at “full throttle,” Pen- tagon spokesman John Kirby told reporters Thursday. VICTOR MANCILLA/U.S. Marine Corps But a day earlier at Al Udeid, MARK ANDRIES/U.S. Marine Corps A Marine checks two civilians during processing through a checkpoint people were already scrambling Marines assigned to the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit await a flight during an evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, to prepare the base as the flights at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, on Tuesday. Afghanistan, on Wednesday. started arriving, the resident said. Officials appeared not to have showed. menter said, though evacuees “I don’t have anything,” said the That’s likely a quarantine area, planned for security escorts from “The most important thing I do were being given shampoo, towels Afghan, a U.S. green card holder dubbed “Q town,” which the base the flight line. Some airmen were in my time here is not even going and bar soap. who declined to be named for fear resident described as a fenced surprised at the end of a normal to be during work hours,” one U.S. Air Forces Central re- the Taliban may target his family compound with about 15 buildings shift to be suddenly assigned the group member said on a personal ferred inquiries on the evacua- members left behind. and beds for about 1,000 people. It extra duty earlier this week, the page earlier this week. tions to the Pentagon, which did After arrival in Qatar, he and his was full, he said. Beds were also resident said. People were volunteering at one not respond to questions about Qa- wife and children were taken to a set up in the gyms and two base The influx has also put pressure of the hangars after work, that us- tar or other sites. hangar where they stayed over- theaters, while those and other on some base services, with er said in response to a question An Afghan at the base was night. There were some free morale facilities were closed, giv- dumpsters filling up so fast that an about how to pitch in. A call went forced to leave behind almost all clothes and sandals, but he strug- ing residents few options for tak- email went out telling all person- out for volunteers to assist with of his belongings, he told Stars and gled to find something that fit him ing a break to unwind. nel to begin crushing their trash. force protection, another user Stripes by phone, and the one bag and was too exhausted after sever- In one good sign, the dining fa- The base’s water supply, which is said. he did bring with his wallet and al sleepless days to keep looking, cility’s warehouse seemed to have already limited in summer, could “I volunteered today,” another other important documents was he said. stocked up, he said, and so far the also be strained. commenter said. “They kind of stolen as he pushed through the He and others underwent coro- cafeterias on base were handling Still, some service members need help everywhere.” crowd outside the airport. He and navirus tests and were then the added demand well. were looking to do whatever they People were organizing a cloth- four family members arrived in moved to an area that has its own could to help, a discussion on a ing and shoe drive. Hygiene sup- Qatar with little more than the dining facility and laundry, he [email protected] Facebook group for base residents plies were also needed, one com- clothes on their backs. said. Twitter: @chadgarland Russia was ready for Taliban’s win due to longtime contacts BY VLADIMIR ISACHENKOV list. Any contact with such groups is bilateral and multilateral meetings. Taliban spokesman Mohammad security. Associated Press punishable under Russian law, but “We have maintained contacts Sohail Shaheen said during a visit “Russian diplomats are doing all MOSCOW — When the Taliban the Foreign Ministry has responded with the Taliban for the last seven last month to the Russian capital they can to consolidate the contacts swept over Afghanistan, Russia was to questions about the seeming con- years, discussing many issues,” that “we won’t allow anyone to use they have established with the Tali- ready for the rapid developments tradiction by saying that its ex- Kremlin envoy on Afghanistan Za- the Afghan territory to attack Russia ban,” Moscow-based analyst Alexei after working methodically for changes with the Taliban are essen- mir Kabulov said. “We saw them as or neighboring countries,” noting Makarkin said in a commentary. years to lay the groundwork for rela- tial for international efforts to stabi- aforce that will play a leading role in that “we have very good relations “Russian representatives cast the tions with the group that it still offi- lize Afghanistan. Afghanistan in the future even if it with Russia.” Taliban as moderate and responsib- cially considers a terrorist organiza- Unlike many other countries, doesn’t take all power. All those fac- Russian diplomats say they trust le, acting as their advocates in the tion. Russia said it wouldn’t evacuate its tors, along with guarantees given to the group’s assurances, noting the public sphere.” Russian Foreign Minister Sergey embassy in Kabul, and its ambassa- us by the Taliban’s top leaders, give Taliban’s focus on fighting Islamic He argued that the Taliban might Lavrov emphasized this week that dor quickly met with the Taliban for us reason for a calm view of the lat- State, which Moscow sees as the not try to project their influence to Moscow was “in no rush” to recog- what he described as “constructive” est developments, although we re- main threat from Afghanistan. Mos- the ex-Soviet Central Asian nations nize the Taliban as the new rulers of talks after they took over the capital. main vigilant.” cow has also hailed their pledge to for now, but that could change later Afghanistan, but he added there The Soviet Union fought a 10-year Amonth before Taliban militants combat drug trafficking and stem after securing a hold on Afghanis- were “encouraging signals” of their war in Afghanistan that ended with unleashed their offensive that end- the flow of drugs from Afghanistan tan. readiness to let other political forces its troops withdrawing in 1989. Since ed with the seizure of Kabul, their via Central Asia. “The Taliban’s leaders will be un- join the government and allow girls then, Moscow has made a comeback delegation visited Moscow to offer Russia’s ambassador to Kabul, likely to launch an expansion now, into schools. as an influential power broker in in- assurances that they wouldn’t Dmitry Zhirnov, praised the Tali- but that doesn’t mean that they The Taliban were added to the ternational talks on Afghanistan. It threaten the interests of Russia and ban as “reasonable guys” following won’t take such steps in the future,” Russian list of terrorist organiza- has worked continuously to culti- its ex-Soviet allies in Central Asia — a “positive and constructive meet- Makarkin observed, noting that tions in 2003, and Moscow has not vate ties with the Taliban, hosting a sign that they consider ties with ing” this week. He added that the multiple factions inside the Taliban yet moved to take the group off the their representatives for a series of Russia a priority. Taliban guaranteed the embassy’s may have varying goals. PAGE 10 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 AFGHANISTAN Hold heads high, military leaders tell vets BY DAVID CHOI erful, and important,” the two men of Kabul without much resistance Berger and Black encouraged Both McConville and Grinston Stars and Stripes wrote. from the Afghan National Army the troops to “come together” and served tours in Afghanistan. The highest-ranking leaders of “You put the good of others be- prompted U.S. and coalition forces reach out to their fellow Marines, McConville, as commander of the the Army and Marine Corps told fore yourself. You fought to defend to speed up their timetable for “particularly those you served 101st Airborne Division, deployed U.S. veterans of Afghanistan that your country, your family, your evacuating citi- with overseas.” there as head of Combined Joint their service mattered, even as the friends, and your neighbors. You zens and Af- Likewise, Army Chief of Staff Task Force 101. Taliban effectively controls the fought to prevent terror from re- ghans with spe- Gen. James McConville, in a letter “I’m proud of everyone that de- country and former Afghan allies turning to our shores,” they wrote. cial immigrant Tuesday, asked soldiers to “check ployed in support of the Afghan flee for their lives. “You fought for the liberty of visas. in on your teammates” who may be mission and honor the sacrifice of Marines watching the chaotic young Afghan girls, women, boys, Chairman of struggling with events unfolding in those who did not return,” Grin- events unfold in Kabul, the Afghan and men who want the same indi- the Joint Chiefs Kabul and elsewhere in Afghanis- ston said in a series of tweets capital where the Taliban took con- vidual freedoms we enjoy as of Staff Army tan. Wednesday. “The events of the trol earlier this week, “may be Americans. You fought for the Ma- Gen. Mark Mil- “The attacks on September 11, past week are in no way a reflec- Berger struggling with a simple question: rine to your left and the Marine to ley in a press 2001, reminded us of the true tion on that service and sacrifice.” ‘Was it all worth it?’ ” wrote Marine your right.” briefing Wednesday said, “I did strength of our nation and our mil- Rep. Jason Crow, of Colorado, an Corps Commandant Gen. David Berger previously commanded not, nor did anyone else see a col- itary,” McConville wrote in the let- Afghanistan veteran who served Berger in an open letter published the 1st Marine Division-Forward lapse of an army that size in 11 ter published throughout the Ar- with the 75th Ranger Regiment, on the service’s social media ac- during Operation Enduring Free- days.” my’s social media accounts. “You said he empathized with “my fel- counts Wednesday. dom in Afghanistan. Black also de- Roughly 6,000 U.S. troops are are a reflection of what makes us low veterans” on Thursday. “We see videos and photos, we ployed to the country with 3rd Bat- expected to deploy to Hamid Kar- the best Army in the world, and I “So many of us left a part of our read stories that bring back memo- talion, 7th Marines and with Com- zai International Airport to aid in ask that you remain committed as heart in Afghanistan,” Crow said ries for some of us, and it becomes bat Logistics Battalion 5. the evacuation. President Joe Bi- we work to get through this tough on Twitter. “Now, more than ever, intensely personal,” Berger wrote, “Was it worth it? Yes,” the two den said Wednesday on ABC News time.” please take care of yourself. Ask- along with Sgt. Maj. of the Marine Marines wrote. “Does it still hurt? that the Aug. 31 deadline to end The Army’s top enlisted leader, ing for help is a sign of strength.” Corps Troy Black. Yes.” U.S. operations could be extended Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael

Those Marines’ service in Af- The Taliban’s rapid advance to get all Americans out of Afghan- Grinston, also said the troops’ ser- [email protected] ghanistan was “meaningful, pow- across the country and its capture istan. vice in Afghanistan was not in vain. Twitter: @choibboy Legal petitions seek evacuation of all Afghan visa applicants BY SARAH CAMMARATA evacuate all of these individuals un- many cases, their lives is a histori- Stars and Stripes der Operation Allies Refuge, the cally unprecedented failure that on- WASHINGTON — An advocacy Defense Department-led operation ly a sustained attempt to hold the group that provides legal services to to airlift at-risk Afghans from Af- Kabul airport and meaningfully displaced people around the world ghanistan. evacuate people can even begin to filed multiple petitions for protec- “Tens of thousands of SIV appli- remedy. The timing could not be tion to the State Department on cants were left out of the first phase more urgent,” Heller said. Wednesday to demand the United of Operation Allies Refuge — in- The State Department has told States evacuate all Afghans seeking cluding a significant number of U.S. citizens as well as Afghans who special immigrant visas to safety re- IRAP clients — because they had are attempting to flee the country gardless of the status of their appli- not yet received their visas or reac- that they cannot guarantee safe cations. hed medical exams, which is the fi- travel to the airport. The International Refugee As- nal stage of visa processing. For sev- “Communications, even to U.S. sistance Project filed one of the legal eral reasons, we ask that the evacua- citizens from State Department, as MARC TESSENSOHN, BUNDESWEHR/AP claims on behalf of all applicants in tion be expanded to include the SIV recently as a few hours ago, said in People evacuated from Afghanistan pose in front of a German the Special Immigrant Visa Pro- applicants who remain in Afghanis- all caps ‘The United States govern- Bundeswehr airplane after arriving at the airport in Tashkent, gram and multiple others on behalf tan,” according to the petition for all ment cannot assist you with safety Uzbekistan, on Tuesday. An advocacy group filed multiple petitions of specific individuals. The group applicants. or cannot guarantee your safety on for protection to the State Department on Wednesday to demand the said it marks the first time the State Members of the group said the the journey to Kabul,’ ” said Mi- U.S. evacuate all Afghans seeking special immigrant visas to safety. Department has been petitioned to State Department has justified chael Breen, president and CEO of carry out its legal duty under the Af- evacuating a smaller number of ap- Human Rights First, an internation- many threats and warnings to stop access to safety has been needlessly ghan Allies Protection Act. plicants by only accepting people al human rights organization. serving the United States. Yet, she delayed for years,” Heller said. The law requires the U.S. to pro- who have completed the first stage Breen said SIV applicants and saw the projects through to the end Khaled Hosseini, an Afghan tect all SIV applicants when they are of the application process, which is other refugees within sight of the “because of my commitment and American novelist and humanitar- in “imminent danger,” according to often the most arduous and dysfunc- airport have been beaten severely loyalty to U.S. government,” she ian worker who spoke during the Becca Heller, the group’s executive tional. by Taliban fighters and killings at said. teleconference, said his family and director. “[The administration] is blaming individual homes are already taking Now, she and her family are hid- friends who are in Afghanistan are State Department officials said our own allies for their failure to place throughout the country. ing from the Taliban. “terrified.” the U.S. has already evacuated have a functioning application proc- Heller said the group’s client told “We all are worried and afraid. I “Some of the people that I’ve spo- 2,000 Afghans who worked with ess. And then using that as an excuse her that at least five translators have can’t face them as a lone woman in ken to, friends in Kabul, aligned Americans as translators and inter- to argue that they shouldn’t have to been killed by the Taliban in the last this situation. I’m thinking how themselves with American initia- preters during the 20-year war in evacuate them. It’s morally repre- two days. much more I can hide from them, tives knowing that will turn them in- Afghanistan. However, President hensible,” Heller said during a tele- An Afghan women’s rights advo- myself and my family. They can find to targets to the Taliban and other Joe Biden’s administration has said conference with reporters to dis- cate and International Refugee As- us out any moment, any day, and kill insurgent groups. But they did it up to 22,000 additional special visa cuss the petitions. sistance Project client Fatima, a us all,” she said on the recording. anyway, because they believed in a applicants are expected to be evac- The petitions come as the Taliban pseudonym in place of her real International Refugee Assistance better future for their country, be- uated. have taken control of Afghanistan name for fear of speaking out, said Project has sued the U.S. govern- cause they believed in the promise But the International Refugee As- and the Defense Department is at- on a pre-recorded message provid- ment twice over the extreme delays of a peaceful and stable Afghanis- sistance Project estimates the num- tempting to boost evacuations from ed by IRAP during the teleconfe- in administering special immigrant tan. … America has a moral obliga- ber of individuals with pending ap- Kabul’s international airport to be- rence that she applied for a special visa applications and the group is tion to evacuate those people as plications is more likely to be tween 5,000 and 9,000 people from immigrant visa in 2018 and is still now arguing the government has quickly as possible and bring them 100,000, which includes all the pri- Afghanistan each day. waiting for a response. not done enough to fix the “broken to safety,” Hosseini said. mary applicants for SIVs and their “The unwillingness of the U.S. Fatima said she worked on U.S.- system.” families. The group said the Biden government to protect our allies, af- funded projects for several years. In “SIV applicants who are stuck in [email protected] administration does not intend to ter they sacrifice their safety and, in that time, she said she received Afghanistan are there because their Twitter: @sarahjcamm Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 11 VIRUS OUTBREAK US jobless claims hit new low as hiring strengthens Associated Press ed Thursday that jobless claims and drawn consumers back to nt could disrupt the economy’s re- market’s health. But their reliabil- WASHINGTON — The number fell by 29,000 to 348,000. shops, restaurants, airports and covery from last year’s brief but ity has deteriorated during the of people seeking unemployment The weekly pace of applications entertainment venues. intense recession. Some econo- pandemic. In many states, the benefits fell last week for a fourth for unemployment aid has fallen Still, the number of applications mists have already begun to mark weekly figures have been inflated straight time to a pandemic low, more or less steadily since topping remains high by historic stan- down their estimates for growth by fraud and by multiple filings the latest sign that America’s job 900,000 in early January. The dards: Before the pandemic tore this quarter as some measures of from unemployed Americans as market is rebounding from the dwindling number of first-time through the economy in March economic activity, like air travel, they navigate bureaucratic hur- pandemic recession as employers jobless claims has coincided with 2020, the weekly pace amounted have started to weaken. dles to try to obtain benefits. boost hiring to meet a surge in con- the widespread administering of to around 220,000 a week. And Filings for unemployment ben- Those complications help explain sumer demand. vaccines, which has led business- now there is growing concern that efits have traditionally been seen why the pace of applications re- The Labor Department report- es to reopen or expand their hours the highly contagious delta varia- as a real-time measure of the job mains comparatively high. US health officials urge booster shots Associated Press Officials said that before any lated. WASHINGTON — U.S. health booster program starts up, the They said the U.S. needs to get officials Wednesday announced Food and Drug Administration out ahead of the problem before it plans to dispense COVID-19 and a CDC advisory panel would takes a more lethal turn here and booster shots to all Americans to need to evaluate the safety and ef- starts leading to increasing hospi- shore up their protection amid the fectiveness of an extra dose. talizations and deaths among the surging delta variant and signs “We have a responsibility to vaccinated. that the vaccines’ effectiveness is give the maximum amount of pro- Dr. Anthony Fauci, the govern- slipping. tection,” President Joe Biden said ment’s foremost expert on CO- The plan, as outlined by the at the White House. He added that VID-19, said one of the key lessons chief of the Centers for Disease extra doses are also “the best way of the coronavirus is that it’s better Control and Prevention and other to protect ourselves from new var- to “stay ahead of it than chasing af- top health authorities, calls for an iants that could arise.” ter it.” extra dose eight months after peo- The first boosters would go to The announcement came the ple get their second shot of the people in high-priority groups that JAY REEVES/AP same day the Biden administra- Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. The received the initial U.S. vaccina- A worker from USA Health prepares to vaccinate a person for tion said it would require nursing doses could begin the week of tions: nursing home residents, COVID­19 during a drive­up clinic in Mobile, Ala., on Aug. 12. homes to mandate vaccinations Sept. 20. health workers and those with un- for staffers in order to continue re- “Our plan is to protect the derlying health conditions. “We’re planning to hand out ex- White House officials noted that American people, to stay ahead of ceiving federal funds. Hundreds Top scientists at the World tra life jackets to people who al- the U.S. has donated 115 million this virus,” CDC Director Dr. Ro- of thousands of nursing home Health Organization bitterly ob- ready have life jackets, while doses to 80 countries, more than chelle Walensky said as the agen- workers remain unvaccinated, de- jected to the U.S. plan, noting that we’re leaving other people to all other nations combined. They cy cited a raft of studies suggesti- spite the heightened risk of fatal poor countries are not getting drown without a single life jack- said the U.S. has plenty of vaccine ng that the vaccines are losing infections among elderly resi- enough vaccine for their initial et,” said Dr. Michael Ryan, the to dispense boosters to its own ground while the highly conta- dents. rounds of shots. WHO’s emergencies chief. population. gious variant spreads. Officials said it is “very clear” People who received the single- that the vaccines’ protection dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine against infections wanes over will also probably need extra time, and they noted the worsen- shots, health officials said. But ing picture in Israel, which has they said they are waiting for seen a rise in severe cases, many more data. of them in people already inocu- PAGE 12 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 NATION Calif. wildfire siege continues, burning dozens of houses Associated Press stopped its progress, fire officials GRIZZLY FLATS, Calif. — A said at an evening briefing. small wildfire swept through a Rows of homes were destroyed mobile home park, leaving dozens on at least two blocks and televi- of homes in ashes, the latest in a sion footage showed crews dous- series of explosive blazes pro- ing burning homes with water. pelled by gusts that have torn Children were rushed out of an through Northern California elementary school as a field mountains and forests. across the street burned. The drought-parched region Some 1,600 people were or- NOAH BERGER/AP was expected to see red flag warn- dered to flee, with Lake County Detective Steve Hobb searches for possible victims at Cache Creek Mobile Home Estates where the ings for dangerously high winds Sheriff Brian Martin warning of Cache Fire leveled dozens of homes Wednesday in Clearlake, Calif. and hot, dry weather through “immediate threat to life and Thursday. property.” smoke clouds. Flames have also mas and Tehama counties, where across the spine of California, Those conditions have fed a doz- Lake County has experienced leapfrogged miles ahead of the some people hadn’t seen their where the Sierra Nevada and Cas- en uncontrolled wildfires, includ- repeated wildfires in the past dec- front lines as winds scattered em- homes for a month. cade mountains meet. It had ing the month-old Dixie Fire and ade that have destroyed hundreds bers, hot ash and chunks of wood But the Dixie and Caldor fires burned more than 1,000 square the nearby Caldor Fire in the of homes. into dry vegetation, said Thom still menaced many small clusters miles and was only a third con- northern Sierra Nevada that in- At least 16,000 other homes re- Porter, chief of the California De- of homes within and around na- tained. cinerated much of the small rural main threatened by California partment of Forestry and Fire tional forests along with larger On Wednesday, dozens of fire towns of Greenville and Grizzly wildfires, which are among some Protection. communities, including Pollock engines and crews were trans- Flats. 100 burning throughout a dozen “This is not going to end any- Pines, with a population of 7,000, ferred from that battle to fight the No deaths have been reported Western states, fire officials said. time soon,” he said of the Dixie and Susanville, population 18,000, Caldor Fire, which exploded despite the speed and damage of Tens of thousands of people re- Fire. “Everybody’s going to be which is the county seat of Lassen through heavy timber in steep ter- the blazes. main under evacuation orders. sucking smoke for a long time.” County. rain since erupting over the week- On Wednesday, a grass fire dri- No deaths have been reported, Fire crews were able to make Eldorado National Forest and end southwest of Lake Tahoe. ven by winds up to 30 mph de- despite the speed and ferocity of some progress on the Dixie Fire Lassen Volcanic National Park The fire has blackened nearly stroyed dozens of mobile homes in the blazes, which have at times on Wednesday, increasing con- were closed. 220 square miles and on Tuesday Lake County and injured at least created their own erratic winds tainment to 35%, and some evac- The Dixie Fire is the first to ravaged Grizzly Flats, a commu- one resident before firefighters from heated air swirling into uation orders were lifted in Plu- have burned from east to west nity of about 1,200. Accuser says R. Kelly made her dress like Girl Scout Associated Press ual encounters that Kelly often vid- cating she agreed she never re- mostly referred to in court as “Jane came more than a decade after Kel- NEW YORK — A key accuser at eotaped. vealed to Kelly that she was a mi- Does” — expected to testify at a trial ly was acquitted in a 2008 child por- the R. Kelly sex-trafficking trial re- On cross examination, defense nor. She said it was in exchange for scheduled to last several weeks. nography case in Chicago. The re- turned to the witness stand on attorney Deve- hush money. Other likely witnesses include prieve allowed his music career to Thursday, saying he often video- raux Cannick The questioning fit a theme that cooperating former associates who continue until the #MeToo era taped their sexual encounters and sought to show defense lawyers have repeatedly have never spoken publicly before caught up with him, emboldening demanded she dress like a Girl Pace hid her true pushed early in the trial: Kelly was about their experiences with Kelly. alleged victims to come forward. Scout during a relationship that be- motivations re- victimized by groupies who hound- The Associated Press doesn’t The women’s stories got wide ex- gan when she was a minor. garding Kelly ed him at shows and afterward, only name alleged victims of sexual posure with the Lifetime documen- Jerhonda Pace resumed her tes- and deceived him to turn against him years later when abuse without their consent unless tary “Surviving R. Kelly.” The se- timony in Brooklyn federal court a by lying about public sentiment shifted against they have shared their identities ries explored how an entourage of day after telling jurors she was a 16- her age. him, they allege. publicly. Pace has appeared in a supporters protected Kelly and si- Kelly year-old virgin and a member of “You were in To bolster their claims against documentary and participated in lenced his victims for decades, fore- Kelly’s fan club when he invited her fact stalking him, right?” Cannick Kelly, prosecutors showed jurors media interviews. shadowing the federal racketeering to his mansion in 2010. While there, asked. screenshots from Pace’s phone Kelly, 54, has denied accusations conspiracy case that landed Kelly she said, she was told to follow “That is not right,” she respon- showing several communications that he preyed on Pace and other in jail in 2019. “Rob’s rules” — edicts restricting ded. with Kelly in January 2010, includ- victims during a 30-year career The trial is occurring before an how she could dress, who she could Pace had testified earlier the she ing a text from him reading, “Please highlighted by his smash hit “I Be- anonymous jury of seven men and speak with and when she could use told Kelly she was 19 when they met call.” There was also a photo of her lieve I Can Fly,” a 1996 song that be- five women. Following several de- the bathroom. but had informed him she was only with “Rob” tattooed to her chest. came an inspirational anthem lays due mostly to the pandemic, She said Kelly — born Robert 16 by the time he sexually abused She said she’s since “covered it up played at school graduations, wed- the trial unfolds under coronavirus Sylvester Kelly — sometimes de- her. with a black heart.” dings, advertisements and else- precautions restricting the press manded she wear pigtails and Cannick confronted her with a Pace, the trial’s first witness, was where. and the public to overflow cour- “dress like a Girl Scout” during sex- lawsuit settlement she signed indi- among multiple female accusers — The openings and testimony trooms with video feeds. Census reportedly hit by cyberattack, but US count is unaffected Associated Press Wednesday. tack in a timely manner. The sta- tain access to the system through were compromised, nor was the U.S. Census Bureau computer The attack took place in Janu- tistical agency also failed to keep a backdoor, but unauthorized nation’s once-a-decade head servers were exploited last year ary 2020 on the bureau’s remote sufficient system logs, which hin- changes were still made, includ- count affected in any way. during a cybersecurity attack, access servers. dered the investigation, and was ing the creation of user accounts, “Furthermore, no systems or but it didn’t involve the 2020 cen- According to the Office of In- using an operating system no the report said. data maintained and managed by sus, and hackers’ attempts to spector General, the Census Bu- longer supported by the vendor, In a written response, acting the Census Bureau on behalf of keep access to the system were reau missed opportunities to limit the watchdog report said. Census Bureau director Ron Jar- the public were compromised, unsuccessful, according to a its vulnerability to the attack and The bureau’s firewalls stopped min reiterated that none of the manipulated or lost,” Jarmin watchdog report released didn’t discover and report the at- the attacker’s attempts to main- systems used for the 2020 census wrote. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 13 ‘What If ... ?’ flips WEEKEND the script on MCU Television, Page 30

Photos by Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures Family drama Sean Penn gets back behind the camera to direct daughter Dylan in ‘Flag Day’

Movies, Page 15

Video games — 18 Travel & Food — 19-25 Music — 28-29 Health — 32 Crossword — 34 PAGE 14 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: GADGETS & TECHNOLOGY

GADGETS Tiny dashcam that can hide behind your rearview mirror

BY GREGG ELLMAN ning, just minutes from the un- Tribune News Service packing to mounted and running Garmin has always been a on my dashboard. technology leader with almost Other Garmin dash cams in the any product they have intro- new voice-controlled dashcam duced, so the great performance series include the Dash Cam 47 of the all new Garmin Dash Cam ($169.99) with HD 1080p record- Mini 2 is no surprise. It’s part of ing and GPS. The Dash Cam 57 the 2021 voice-controlled dash- ($229.99) has HD 1440p and GPS, cam series, with automatic video while the Dash Cam 67W storage and Live View monitor- ($259.99) has HD 1440p, GPS and ing options. extra-wide 180-degree lens cap- The first thing you notice about tures cross-traffic details. the $129.99 Dash Cam Mini 2 is Online: buy.garmin.com the size. Garmin refers to it as Monoprice BT-600ANC over- tiny right on the box. At just 1.23- the-ear wireless headphones are by-2.09-by-1.14-inches, it’s amaz- budget-friendly headphones ing what Garmin has packed ($79.99) packed with every fea- inside, including a 140-degree ture you’ll need. TERRENCE ANTONIO JAMES/TNS field of view. The small size al- I’m a fan of Active Noise Can- Seth Pae orders a sandwich at Paulette’s Public Market on Aug. 3 in Chicago. The sandwich and salad lows it to be almost entirely hid- celling, and these lightweight shop partners with the app Too Good to Go, which connects customers to businesses with food nearing itsden behind my rearview mirror. headphones do a good job expiration date and sells it at a reduced price, with the goal of reducing food waste. An automatic continual re- with that. It’s con- cording is done with clarity trolled within the during the day and modes of the at night with a headphones and 1080p resolution work with the of up to 30 FPS. built-in micro- Fighting waste An adhesive phones to cancel mount, power out unwanted back- cables, and a ground sounds. dual USB pow- With Bluetooth 5.0 Too Good to Go app keeps leftover food out of landfills by er adapter are for pairing to mul- included. On- tiple devices, the connecting consumers to surplus food at bargain prices board automat- Monoprice ic video storage BT-600ANC head- BY MAYA MOKH According to him, the implementation was very goes into a phones feature a Chicago Tribune simple and the app is “super easy” to use and has mircro SD 40-hour playtime t the end of a given day, restaurants, been well-liked by customers. memory card with full USB-C markets and other food stores often have “I’ve worked in the restaurant industry, and (not included). charge, They aren’t leftover food that is still perfectly good, there’s so much (waste),” said Paul Ramsy, 32, of There’s no waterproof but Abut can no longer be sold the next day. Wicker Park, a Too Good To Go user. “Just know- on-board display GARMIN/TNS have Qualcomm That food often gets thrown away, contributing to ing that what I’m picking up at the end of the day is on the Dash Cam Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 has aptX HD Audio, increasing greenhouse gas emissions and climate not getting tossed, that makes me feel great.” Mini 2. Instead, a 140­degree field of view. AAC, and touch change. And nearly 700 million people around the He said his experience has been seamless so far live view mon- controls. With the world still go to bed hungry every night. and plans to use the app at least once a week. itoring is done with the free Gar- ambient sound mode to mute the Too Good to Go, a tech-for-good app that In just a few months in the U.S., there are already min Drive app (iOS and An- volume, all you do is place your launched in 2016 and has recently expanded to close to 1.5 million registered Too Good To Go us- droid), which pairs with the Dash hand over the right ear cup’s Chicago, is fighting food waste by connecting users ers. Cam Mini 2 via Bluetooth. The multifunctional touchpad. to surplus food from local businesses. Users pay a “The fact that it’s so simple, and it really fits in app has loads of other features Cosmetically, they have a dura- fee of $4-$6 and receive a “Surprise Bag,” filled the operation of stores makes it really successful including live traffic, weather, ble construction with an adjus- with food worth three times more than they paid. and makes everyone willing to join,” Basch said. video sharing and live parking table headband, which folds up to “It’s really about getting that win-win-win con- In addition to reducing their food waste and re- availability as you near your store in the included carrying cept, where stores don’t throw away food anymore, ceiving a profit from the fee minus the TGTG com- destination. case. Inside the padded ear cups where consumers like you and me can contribute to mission, Basch said businesses also benefit from On-camera controls are easy to are 40mm drivers, which deliver fighting against food waste, while getting great food the app because it brings in new consumers that use for formatting memory cards, the extended frequency range for a third of the price, and where together we real- discover their food through the app. pairing to a smartphone, and sound. Touch controls are re- ly help the planet, because today food waste is re- Paulette’s Public Market, another Chicago part- taking video snapshots. Voice sponsible for controlling music sponsible for 8% of greenhouse gas emissions,” said ner, has enjoyed success with TGTG. control capabilities keep the selections, hands-free calls and co-founder Lucie Basch. While the number of bags sold really varies day driver hands-free. With the Gar- volume. Launched in the U.S. only 10 months ago, the app to day, “as many bags as we put up, they sell,” own- min incident detection (fortu- The sound produced is good. is already running in more than 10 cities and er Philip Baber said. Examples of what customers nately, I didn’t test this feature), It’s not fair to say these are the launched in Chicago a couple of weeks ago. can expect to get in their bags include a loaf of West once an incident is detected, the best headphones you can buy, but “We’ve already saved 5,000 meals from the trash Town multigrain bread, along with housemade video from before, during and for what they are meant to do and and we have more than 100 local partners,” Basch chorizo and queso dip, trout dip, a quart of macar- after the incident is captured and sound like, they do a great job, said. “So it actually went really, really fast in Chica- oni deli salad and more. saved. especially for the cost. The sound go.” The market, which sells fresh deli items that Garmin’s vault storage basic is clear, with a decent amount of Deep Purpl, a local açaí bowl company, is one of usually don’t have a very long shelf life, is very plan for 24-hour video storage is bass, and certainly fits the need those partners, and its founder, Gabriel Fleury, conscious of food waste and sustainability. included. Options for upgraded for portable headphones for stu- says they receive about two to five Too Good to Go “It was really a good opportunity for us to cut plans include the standard plan, dents or anyone who needs them orders per day, on average. He found out about the down dramatically on the waste that we had,” he $4.99 monthly, which gives you on the go. app when one of its co-founders knocked on his said. seven days of storage. The ad- If you’re looking for solid head- door, and he immediately loved the idea. “The beauty of Too Good to Go is that, literally as vanced plan is $9.99 a month and phones, with good sound, a “I wanted to do it right away,” Fleury said. a store owner, if you are about to throw food away will store videos for 30 days. friendly price, and endless fea- He said the app helps save food that would have tonight, then just give us a call because on the same While all that is great, what got tures, the Monoprice BT-600ANC otherwise gone to waste due to customers not pick- day you can have people that come to your places my attention is how fast and easy is a great choice. ing up their orders, or employees making mistakes. and save the food.” it was to get the dashcam run- Online: monoprice.com Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 15 WEEKEND: MOVIES Passing the torch Sean Penn directs ‘Flag Day,’ stars with daughter Dylan

BY JAKE COYLE Editor’s note: No review of “Flag Day” Associated Press was available at press time. ean Penn is sort of done with movies. du Soleil movies,” he says. On He’s still making them, Marvel movies, he laments “how Shere and there. But Penn much it’s taken up the space and is mostly seeing out commit- claimed so much time in the ments he made years earlier. careers of so many talented peo- After those? He’s not so sure how ple.” Arguing that today he much more he’s going to be act- wouldn’t be allowed to play gay VIANNEY LE CAER/AP ing or directing. icon Harvey Milk (2008’s Sean Penn, left, and Dylan Penn pose for photographs to promote the film “Flag Day” July 10 at the 74th Penn, the 61-year-old maverick “Milk”), Penn recently said that international film festival, Cannes, southern France. Sean Penn directed the film and both Penns star in it. actor and sometimes filmmaker, soon only Danish princes will be is in many ways happily out of playing Hamlet. everyone on set. During the pan- step with many of the prevailing And Penn’s generally well- demic, Penn’s Community Orga- winds in Hollywood. Streaming regarded directing career (in- nized Relief Effort non-profit, films? Franchise movies? So- cluding 1995’s “The Crossing which he started after the 2010 called “cancel culture?” All of Guard” and 2001’s “The Pledge,” earthquake to help Haitians, these things draw his ire, to vari- both with Jack Nicholson; and erected testing and vaccination ous degrees. Penn is dedicating 2007’s “Into the Wild”) has lately sites, helping dispense millions of more of his time to Haitian relief been rockier. His last film, 2016’s shots. Perhaps those experiences efforts and getting people vacci- “The Last Face,” with Charlize have made Penn only further nated than he does to movies. Theron, flopped, and was loudly repelled by anything artificial. All of that makes “Flag Day,” a booed at its Cannes Film Festival “My tolerance for the con- new film Penn directed and co- debut. Yet Penn last month re- trived is less and less,” says stars in, a rarity for a once vora- turned to Cannes to premiere Penn. cious actor who in the past dec- “Flag Day.” But working with Dylan came ade has been a co-lead in only a “I’ve been on such extreme naturally. Talking about her few movies (“The Professor and ends on that. It’s like: whatever,” MGM/AP attentive, even disarming pres- the Madman,” “Gangster says Penn. “The thing is: I am Sean Penn, left, and Dylan Penn in a scene from “Flag Day.” ence, he calls her “as uncon- Squad”). In the father-daughter confident that I know as much — trived as it gets. drama, which MGM will release more — about acting than almost been quite complimentary. Va- Day.” (The rest of the cast in- “I would be sort of taken about Friday in theaters, Penn plays a any of these critics. And I’m very riety said the film “reveals Dylan cludes Josh Brolin and Regina by it sometimes, like: ‘Uh, oh. larger-than-life but often absent confident in the performance I’m Penn to be a major actor.” King.) She’s really listening to this. Is and sometimes imprisoned fa- most concerned about.” Just as Penn is withdrawing “I have always thought if she she seeing right through this?’” ther to daughter Jennifer (played With that, Penn raises his hand from movies, his daughter is wanted to do it, I’d encourage it,” says Penn. by Penn’s daughter Dylan Penn). and points toward where Dylan stepping forward — even if she Penn says. Penn started out younger — he “I’m currently feeling with this is sitting across an otherwise didn’t immediately seek the spot- For Dylan, the father-daughter was starring in “Fast Times at movie incredibly lucky to have a empty hotel bar off Cannes’ Croi- light. relationship of “Flag Day” — Ridgemont High” by the time he movie that’s going to be a movie, sette. Dylan, 30, is the star of “Growing up, being surround- Jennifer tries to help and stabi- was 21. He felt confident from that’s going to have a theatrical “Flag Day.” She has dabbled ed by actors and being on set, it lize her scamming father but also the start in roles that were like front,” Penn said in an interview before in acting but it’s easily her was really something that didn’t inherits some of his destructive, him — “young and very shy,” as last month. “I, as an audience, biggest role yet. In the film, interest me at all,” Dylan says. “I conman habits — is a half-reflec- he describes. Staying natural can be very into some of the adapted from Jennifer Vogel’s always thought, and still think, tion of their own bond together. while expanding away from things that are only streaming. 2005 memoir “Flim-Flam Man: my passion lies in working be- “She always strived to have himself, Penn says, has been the But as a practitioner, not at all. The True Story of My Father’s hind the camera. But as soon as I this really honest, transparent journey ever since. To act in something, you take it Counterfeit Life,” she plays an expressed wanting to do that relationship with her father “How do you feel as natural, as in a certain stride. But as a direc- aspiring journalist with a seldom kind of thing, both of my parents which she never got it in return,” free in something where you’re tor, the way I’ve always put it is: truthful father. said separately: You won’t be a Dylan says. “I’ve tried to have going to the role as in something It’s not the girl I fell in love Penn’s confidence isn’t mis- good director if you don’t know that with my dad and got it in where you’re bringing the role to with.” placed. In “Flag Day,” Dylan is what it’s like to be in the actor’s return.” you? To varying degrees of suc- And Penn increasingly sounds natural, poised and captivating. shoes.” Penn has recently been shoot- cess and failure, that’s what the like someone for whom the ro- She looks a veteran, already, Dylan grants that her dad may ing Sam Esmail’s Watergate road has been — to find that mance of movies has faded. He which might be expected of the be “passing the torch a little bit.” series for Starz, with Julia Ro- original unquestioning,” says misses Hollywood films that child of Penn and Robin Wright. Hopper Jack Penn, her younger berts. He’s been vocal that vacci- Penn. “There’s stuff that I see in aren’t “just razzle-dazzle, Cirque And those critics? Some have brother, also co-stars in “Flag nations ought to be required for Dylan that is so unquestioning.” “I always thought, and still think, my passion lies in working behind the camera. But as soon as I expressed wanting to do that kind of thing, both of my parents said separately: You won’t be a good director if you don’t know what it’s like to be in the actor’s shoes.” Dylan Penn PAGE 16 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: MOVIES An ‘incredibly reckless’ horror movie hero family. My grandfather on my mother’s Star Rebecca Hall says side was a Black man who passed in De- troit. He passed for white, and passed that ‘Night House’ ‘inverts the on to my mother and her sisters, who lived damsel-in-distress trope’ as white, and, in turn, me,” Hall said. “I didn’t have any language for that but some- BY CHRIS HEWITT one gave me the book and said, ‘What your Star Tribune grandfather was doing and, arguably, what ebecca Hall, who stars in your mother is doing has a name. There’s a “The Night House,” knows history. There’s a precedent.’ And I knew what you’re thinking about none of this.” movies set in haunted houses. Hall spent the subsequent years trying to She thinks it, too. figure out how to adapt a book as spare and R“’Why isn’t this person leaving?’ It’s kind elegant as Nella Larsen’s novel, which is of the joke of horror movies, having to not just about “passing” but also about the formulate the reason,” said Hall, whose difference between how we see ourselves spooky résumé includes the excellent “The and how society does. Awakening,” in which her character de- “It blew my mind,” she said. “It’s a tiny bunked hauntings. “I thought it was kind of novella where very little happens and, brilliant here that the reason this person within that, a whole world of complexity is can’t leave is that she doesn’t want to.” allowed.” In the first scene of “Night House” — SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES/AP Having written and directed her first which opened in theaters Friday — Hall’s Rebecca Hall appears in a scene from “The Night House” as grieving widow Beth. movie, Hall said she’s eager to do it again, grief-stricken Beth gets home from her and she’d like to throw acting in to make it a husband’s funeral. Almost immediately, Like many ghost stories, “The Night ghosts exist or the fact that they don’t?’” triple-header. But she never considered she senses his presence in the house, which House” is about grief. Or, possibly, about Hall is one of those actors whose face is acting in “Passing,” whose stars, Tessa he built. Soon his favorite tunes are sponta- how grief haunts us like a ghost. more familiar to moviegoers than her Thompson and Ruth Negga, are being neously playing on the stereo, he’s texting “It’s a very specific, odd moment to tap name. The Brit played Christian Bale’s touted for Oscars. her and she begins to realize she didn’t into someone’s journey. There are films tragic wife in “The Prestige,” Vicky in “I go through the world as white. I would know him as well as she thought. Careening that deal with grief, sort of the month after, Woody Allen’s “Vicky Cristina Barcelona,” argue on some level I’m not, but the world between hysteria and devastation, Beth when you’re in the stage of being able to cry a maid in Steven Spielberg’s “The BFG” sees me that way and I thought it was im- almost seems angry at his spectral pres- about it, and films that deal with the imme- and a scientist in this year’s “Godzilla vs. portant for the characters to be played by ence. diate, when someone has just died. But this Kong.” actors the world knows to be Black,” Hall “It makes her incredibly reckless and sort of in-betweensie stage, four days after, Between “The Night House” and Hall’s said. sort of thrilling as a horror movie hero. I found very intriguing,” said Hall, who other upcoming movie, “Passing,” which The complexities of the “Passing” char- She’s genuinely terrifying. Her character is thinks of the movie as Beth learning to Netflix will release this fall, she’s about to acters, one of whom is married to a white terrifying. The place she’s at is terrifying,” grieve. become better known. A drama that earned man who doesn’t know his wife’s back- said Hall, who said extreme behavior at- Hall has never had any experiences that rave reviews in January at the Sundance ground and who constantly makes racist tracted her to the part, just as it did in would convince her there are ghosts. She Film Festival, “Passing” is based on a Har- remarks, also recall the decisions that led “Christine,” the true story of a TV anchor doesn’t believe. But she doesn’t not believe, lem Renaissance novel about a Black wom- Hall to say “yes” to “The Night House.” who shot herself on the air. either. an who “passes” for white in the 1920s. “The more I am intrigued by a character, “There’s only one thing scarier than “I’d like to, in a funny way, just because Hall, whose father is theater director Peter the more likely I am to want to play her,” being terrorized in a house, all by yourself, of stories and imagination. The world is Hall and whose mother is opera singer Hall said. “When I watch something and and that’s someone who wants to be terror- richer for those things,” Hall said. “One of Maria Ewing, received the book from a can’t work out the character initially, I’m in ized, yelling, ‘Come get me. I don’t care the things that’s interesting about the mo- friend about 15 years ago. for the ride. So I have a similar philosophy anymore!’ I think it inverts the damsel-in- vie is it does slightly pose the question of, “I was starting to, I suppose, come to [in choosing roles to play]. I’m in for the distress trope,” she said. ‘What’s more scary to you, the fact that terms with a history of passing in my own ride!”

REVIEW ‘Night House’ blurs line between psychological, supernatural

BY MICHAEL O’SULLIVAN would be in almost any other film of this friend Claire (Sarah Goldberg) and neigh- inability to think her way out of it genu- The Washington Post sort? Or are they symptoms of either sleep bor Mel (Vondie Curtis-Hall) have no- inely terrifying. I slept poorly after returning home from paralysis — the mind awake, but the body ticed: “You’re not well,” Mel tells her. But gradually, in pursuit of an explana- a screening of “The Night House.” In- asleep — or its converse: somnambulism, Soon though, there is firmer evidence of tion other than Beth’s own lying eyes, the somnia is a strange way to make a plug for or sleepwalking? a deeper, more earthly mystery: Beth film ventures into territory that is familiar a film — though a plug is what this ulti- Those questions trouble the early scenes discovers photos on her husband’s phone for another reason: because it is so often mately is — and one that, while fitting, of the film, in a way that takes hold of you. of several women, all of whom look a little fallen upon by lesser horror films. To wit: requires some qualification. Director But later, as “The Night House” shifts its like her. And then there are Owen’s note- a literal — if incorporeal — bugaboo, the David Bruckner’s carefully calibrated focus, evolving from a metaphor for the books, filled with architectural renderings kind that has plagued and marred many hybrid horror story (one that teeters, sleeping brain to something more literal, of a mirror image of their house, along an otherwise impeccable, even artful, mostly tantalizingly, between the psycho- and ultimately less satisfying, it never- with other disturbing notations. There is a horror film, as this one is. (The excellent logical and the supernatural) takes place theless leaves you with other, darker creepy talisman, and, as the film’s title “Hereditary” and “The Witch” also suf- largely at night. thoughts. Thoughts that linger and take hints, more architectural oddities. fered from endings that overly relied on Sharply written by Ben Collins and root, no matter how you try to shake them, For much of “The Night House,” supernatural silliness.) Luke Piotrowski, the story focuses on the and disturb your rest. Bruckner constructs a seductive maze of Still, despite this weakness, “The Night experiences of a woman whose husband Hall is excellent as a college professor false starts, dead ends and dark hallways, House” is a pretty watertight ship, and if it has just killed himself. In the wake of her in upstate New York whose husband Owen both the literal and the metaphorical kind, turns in the direction of paranormal wa- husband’s death, Beth (Rebecca Hall) (Evan Jonigkeit, seen in flashbacks and as Beth probes these enigmas. Prepare ters, it does so with a sure hand on the starts seeing and hearing things, but her apparitions) has just shot himself, in a yourself to be on sustained edge, because tiller and an intriguing premise that keeps perceptions may be distorted by sleep- rowboat on the lake next to the house he “The Night House” will play you like an its flaws from sinking it. Calling it in- lessness, grief and alcohol, to such an designed and built for them. Beth isn’t out-of-tune violin. triguing is actually selling it short. Warts extent that she can’t tell the difference handling the aftermath of the tragedy It is in this foggy realm — one that will and all, “The Night House” is, in the truest between dreams and reality. Are the well, believing she has received post- be familiar to anyone whose sense of rea- sense of the word, kind of haunting. noises she hears, the unseen presence she humous midnight texts from Owen, and son has been fried by fatigue, lateness “The Night House” is rated R for some violence, disturbing senses and the electronics that come on at seeing what appear to be bloody footprints and/or worry — that the film’s strengths images and coarse language, including some sexual references. 4 a.m. signs of poltergeist activity, as they on the dock in the morning. Her best lie. Beth’s confusion is palpable, and her Running time: 107 minutes. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 17 WEEKEND: MOVIE REVIEWS Hooked on nostalgia ‘Reminiscence’ features a smart, thought-provoking concept but focuses on ‘the past,’ noir tropes too much

BY JAKE COYLE of terrifyingly ominous to watch and a Associated Press little comforting. Who knew that envi- ust as surely as climate change is ronmental disaster could be so stylish? scaring the land and warming the The seas may be encroaching, but at least seas, it is also flooding our movies. you can still get a stiff drink at a seedy J The planet’s imperiled future nightclub and tersely muse on the past has been in the DNA of disaster movies like private eyes of earlier times. like “The Day After Tomorrow” for years, In “Reminiscence,” everyone is hooked of course. But lately, climate has taken a on nostalgia, which makes Nick Bannis- more leading role in films proliferating as ter’s memory-weaving machine, in which quickly as ice caps are melting. This sum- people lie down in a shallow tank and are mer has seen the parched, Australian transported to any time from their past, Warner Bros. Pictures thriller “The Dry” and “The Tomorrow something more like a drug den. War,” a time-traveling war movie that “Nothing is more addictive than the Rebecca Ferguson, left, and Hugh Jackman appear in a scene from “Reminiscence.” leads to an apocalyptic threat unlocked by past,” narrates Bannister (Hugh Jack- thawing permafrost. than its dark premise might suggest. guy (Cliff Curtis) — Joy’s film is peopled man). In Lisa Joy’s “Reminiscence,” in thea- “Reminiscence” properly starts with an by the dependable types of the genre. The With soothing direction, he guides cus- ters and on HBO Max, the first thing we old-fashioned kind of encounter: an allur- story is never quite as impactful as the tomers to cherished memories — a tryst see is water. The movie is set in a mostly ing lady looking for her keys. Just after rising-seas setup. with a lost love, playing fetch with a be- submerged Miami in the near future, with closing time, in walks Mae (Rebecca Fer- “Reminiscence” is Joy’s feature-film loved dog — which are illuminated on a canals flowing through high-rises in some guson), in a handsome red dress. There’s debut, but as the creator of the HBO series round stage draped in translucent strings. sections. In other areas braced by an immediately chemistry between her and “Westworld,” she has already proven her (The production design by Howard Cum- ocean wall, there are perpetual puddles. Bannister, which his colleague, Watts (a considerable talent in fashioning vivid, To escape the daytime heat, the city has mings is consistently terrific throughout.) typically very good Thandiwe Newton) intelligent sci-fi worlds out of contempo- turned nocturnal. Or, at least, more so. It’s a fallen world, rampant in lawless- eyes skeptically. She’s a singer at a club in rary anxieties. “Reminiscence” may turn What would it be like living in such a ness, corruption and ennui. Bannister is a a dark, neon-lit offshore district. Their too sentimental and mutter a bit too much world? It’s reasonable, maybe even re- veteran of the wars that came when the first night out ends with Bannister taking about “the past.” Like its characters, it’s sponsible to consider it. Joy, who wrote waters rose. But Jackman, whose range her home, in a dingy by daylight. drunk on what came before, relying too and directed the movie, has sensibly con- extends from song-and-dance musicals As you might imagine, “Reminiscence” heavily on noir tropes. But its smart, cluded we would probably spend a lot of (“The Greatest Showman”) to suburban begins to play with what’s real and what’s thought-provoking concept isn’t so easy to time remembering better days. In “Remi- scandal (“Bad Education”), exudes little of memory, blurring the lines in between. shake off. The images of a half-submerged niscence,” she has fashioned a shadowy, the trauma of anyone who’s been through When Mae disappears, Bannister begins Miami are too eerily realistic. As Bannis- future-set film noir, with the genre trap- war. Jackman is a more reassuring pres- pouring over their time together, search- ter sloshes around in shallows and dives pings of a hard-boiled narrator, a slinky ence. He doesn’t slide into noir with the ing for clues — some of which begin crop- deeper into the depths, “Reminiscence” femme fatale, Venetian blinds and, most weariness of, say, Harrison Ford, or the ping up in other cases, including one in- will leave you soaked with unease. relevantly, a sense of the past’s irrevo- disillusionment of Humphrey Bogart. But, volving a New Orleans drug kingpin (Da- “Reminiscence” is rated PG­13 for strong violence, drug material cable hold over our lives — and our planet. then again, “Reminiscence” gradually niel Wu). To a remarkable degree — com- throughout, sexual content and some strong language. Running That makes “Reminiscence” both kind grows more in the direction of melodrama plete with a mysterious, disfigured bad time: 116 minutes. ‘Paw Patrol’ an undisguised advertisement for the toys BY MICHAEL ORDONA streamlined, expandable, doggie- Add to cart!” Los Angeles Times driven machines can do — just There are unremarkable voice To very young kids who like imagine how much fun the real- cameos (Randall Park, Jimmy cartoon dogs driving shiny vehi- life toys would be (accessories Kimmel, Tyler Perry, Dax She- cles, “Paw Patrol: The Movie” not included)! pard and Kim Kardashian, if you may be awesome. To grown-ups, Slightly stepped up from com- can pick them out) and numerous it may be an aggressively under- mon TV animation for kids, the song breaks including brightly written, 88-minute toy commer- look of “Paw Patrol” is below the colored tunes by Adam Levine cial. standard detail, texture, artistic and Alessia Cara. The first feature bounding use of color and daring design of The dialogue is fairly repre- from the Canadian 2D-animated today’s theatrical 3D computer sented by the line: “Where is it? TV show (broadcast in the U.S. visuals. Rather than exploring There’s so many buildings. I on Nickelodeon) finds the helpful expressions beyond big happy wonder which one it is.” hounds moving from Adventure smile and sad little frown, more Fear not, there are more toys Bay to new, tricked-out digs in attention is paid to the plastic- to look at in the climax. And if Adventure City. There, by a looking toys, er, cars and trucks. those aren’t enough to quench misunderstanding of how elec- One can only assume the stream- your unslakable thirst for these tions work, incompetent nemesis ing version of the film on Para- readily purchasable items, stick Mayor Humdinger (voiced by mount+ includes “Add to cart” around for the front end of the Ron Pardo) becomes head of the SPIN MASTER/Paramount Pictures buttons on the screen. credits, which offer 2D drawings big town. He has terrible ideas Chase (voice of Iain Armitage, left) and Ryder (Will Brisbin) appear in a It’s such an undisguised ad- of the movie-edition vehicles about how to impress citizens scene from “Paw Patrol: The Movie.” Background, from left: Skye vertisement (the series and film invading your local retailer like without doing any good; the (Lilly Bartlam), Rocky (Callum Shoniker), Rubble (Keegan Hedley), are made by toy manufacturer an unstoppable fungus. pooches with emergency ser- Zuma (Shayle Simons) and Marshall (Kingsley Marshall). Spin Master) that at one point, a The show is presumably pop- vices-based skills must save the character is asked how the heroic ular, so there’s probably a 3- to city from disastrous vanity pro- means he was scared of being must heroically face down an headquarters are funded, and he 6-year-old audience for this out jects. alone in such a hectic place — irresponsibly administrated brandishes a T-shirt, chirping, there. Accompanying adults, German shepherd Chase and an eager dachshund, Liberty fireworks display. A haywire “Officially licensed Paw Patrol though, are in for a ruff time. (voiced by Iain Armitage) has (voiced by Marsai Martin), wants weather-studying machine caus- merchandise. This stuff sells like traumatic memories of Adven- to join the team. es strong winds that blow off a hot cakes.” “Paw Patrol: The Movie” is rated G for some ture City — this is aimed at very Not-too-frightening perils toupee and other stuff. Also ensu- Translated: “Kids, do you want violence, such as bombing and attacking. Running young kids, so “traumatic” ensue. The courageous canines ing: Many displays of what these the Paw Patrol to have a home? time: 88 minutes. PAGE 18 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: VIDEO GAMES

Asobo Studio photos Pilot program Microsoft Flight Simulator soars for certain crowd

BY GIESON CACHO look at the Mount Everest Base Camp. It’s The Mercury News best to start with the Flight Training and icrosoft Flight Simulator has learn the basics. Unlike games such as always bewildered me. It’s Ace Combat, Microsoft Flight Simulator not a traditional video game won’t expect players to do Immelmann Mby any means. Players will turns or topsy-turvy acrobatics. Players find no story here, nor is there any real pilot aircrafts like Cessnas or enormous Trips. The Discovery Flights are detailed and the theme park is rendered decently. structure. At its heart, the title is a hard- passenger jets such as the Airbus A320. environments featuring plenty of land- Players can see Space Mountain gleaming core re-creation of the flight process that’s Whatever they choose, these planes aren’t marks. It’s best for virtual sightseeing. in the sun and a blocky rendition of the accurate down to the tiniest details. built for loop-de-loops. Meanwhile, Landing Challenges offer Incredicoaster. It’s the type of game that demands a The goal is to get from Point A to Point players difficult scenarios where they San Francisco is notable because the room dedicated to it. Fans build their own B. That involves taking off the parking must touch down on unusual runways or data is old, and the game hasn’t rendered cockpits, outfit them with flight sticks and brakes, speeding up the plane to take off in trying conditions. destinations such as the Salesforce Tower pedals, all in an effort to increase the level and flying at the right altitude and speed. Bush Trips require VFR knowledge and or the Transbay Terminal. of realism. They Because of the realism of the Microsoft test how well players can follow a flight The more time I spent in the cockpit, the want to feel as if Flight Simulator, players will notice how plan based on environmental descriptions more I could understand the appeal of they’re a captain pilots have to balance speed with soaring and headings. Each is a time commitment flight sims. It’s a form of exploration with flying the friend- higher. with trips lasting more than a half-hour. an addictive sense of discovery. When ly skies. That The more I played, the more I appre- These are good tests of skill, but the buzzing over old haunts, I saw familiar devotion to a ciated the finer elements of aviation. I meat of Microsoft Flight Simulator lies in places from different perspectives and job-like hobby is couldn’t figure out what all the dials did, its World Map mode where players create found new sites that piqued real-world perplexing. It’s but I nailed down the basics. Microsoft their own flight plans and freely travel interests. When traveling unfamiliar ter- an unusual gam- Flight Simulator will teach players how to around the globe. Asobo Studio uses cut- rain, I always wanted to venture farther to ing niche with take off, fly and land. The tutorials will ting-edge machine learning and cloud that mountain or beach over the horizon. the same energy educate players on Visual Flight Rules, computing to map every meter of the It also helps that the game is dazzlingly as toy fanatics which help them reach their destination planet. If players wanted to do a cross- beautiful, and it’s worth snapping screen- obsessed with based on ground landmarks. It’s a real-life continental flight over Asia and Europe, shots to share on social media. model trains. They, too, build rooms for concept that helps track flights, and it’s they can do that though the trip would It’s a more organic way of globe trotting their diversions. key to obtaining pilot certifications. take hours as it would in real life. that’s distinct compared to just seeing What is the draw of piloting a virtual Although Flight Training programs are Microsoft Flight Simulator renders the locales on Google Maps. Players uncover a hunk of metal in the air? Curious about it, I a great resource, they aren’t the best terrain and weather to match real-world living world where they can see cars move dived into the recently released Xbox teachers. Sometimes they can be confus- conditions. It’s not a one-to-one facsimile, on roadways and animals roaming the Series X version of Microsoft Flight Sim- ing, or they expect players to know more but it’s good enough that players can take earth. The world in Microsoft Flight Sim- ulator hoping to find an answer. Devel- about the plane despite the overwhelming off from a nearby airport and fly over ulator is more alive, and at the same time, oped by Asobo Studio, the game throws dials and screens. If players don’t hit the their house. If they wanted to do some- the trips players take feel like journeys. players headfirst into the world of avia- right objectives, the Flight Training pro- thing more daring like fly around a hurri- With that said, the game isn’t for every- tion. The game nudges newcomers to gram falls apart. It doesn’t even tell play- cane in the Caribbean, they can venture one. Many will find it dull, and it is in tackle Discover Flights, which is a bad ers they failed, and in the process, it will into the storm. places. move. That’s like asking toddlers to ride a waste players’ precious time. The tutorials are frustratingly obtuse, tricycle without learning how to crawl. Cruising around the world but Microsoft Flight Simulator has its Other flight activities With the whole world as a playground, appeal to those who have their heads in Where to start Once the skill foundation is set, players Microsoft Flight Simulator sets up excit- the clouds. I discovered that the hard way after can tackle Activities that include Discov- ing possibilities for discovery. One of the Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC crashing while trying to catch a closer ery Flights, Landing Challenges and Bush first things I did was fly over Disneyland, Online: microsoftflightsimulator.com Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 19 WEEKEND: TRAVEL Where France and Germany mix it up

Until European travel becomes fully All along the road, dégustation signs open to Americans, here’s a reminder of invite us into wine caves. Vintners serve the fun that awaits us in Europe. sips of all seven Alsatian wines from dry to sweet, with educational commentary. iking down a newly paved but There’s more to Alsace than meets the skinny one-lane service road palate. Centuries of successful wine pro- through lush vineyards, I notice duction built prosperous, colorful villages. Bhow the hills seem to be blan- Alsatian towns are historic keted in green corduroy. mosaics of gables, foun- My Alsatian friend hollers at me, “Ger- tains, medieval bell towers, many believes the correct border is the ancient ramparts, churches mountains behind us. And we French and cheery old inns. believe the Rhine is the proper border. Colmar, my favorite city That’s why Alsace changes sides with in Alsace, offers heavy- each war. That’s why we are a mix of weight sights in a warm, France and Germany.” Rick small-town setting. This I yell back, “And that’s why you are Steves town of 70,000 sees rela- called ‘Jean-Claude Schumacher.’” tively few American tourists The French province of Alsace is a re- but is popular with the French and Ger- gion of Hansel-and-Gretel villages, ambi- mans. tious vineyards and vibrant cities. It Historic beauty spared Colmar the rav- stands like a flower-child referee between ages of World War II. Thankfully, Amer- CAMERON HEWITT/Rick Steves’ Europe France and Germany, bound by the Rhine ican and British military were careful not Colmar, a French town with German flair, is near the border, in the province of Alsace. River on the east and the well-worn Vosg- to bomb the half-timbered old burghers’ es Mountains on the west. It has changed houses, characteristic red- and green-tiled smaller, statues. The little Bartholdi Mu- main panel — the Crucifixion — is one of hands between the two countries several roofs or cobbled lanes of the most beauti- seum offers a good look at the artist’s life the most powerful paintings ever. I stand times because of its location, natural ful city in Alsace. and some fun Statue of Liberty trivia. in front of it and let the vivid agony and wealth and vulnerability. Centuries as a Today, Colmar is alive with colorful Four hundred years earlier, Martin suffering drag its fingers down my face. political pawn have given Alsace a hybrid buildings, impressive art treasures and Schongauer was the leading local artist. Just as I’m ready to sob with those in the culture. Natives (with names like Jacques enthralled visitors. Antique shops wel- His Madonna in the Rose Garden is sub- painting, I turn to the happy ending: a Schmidt or Dietrich Le Beau) who curse come browsers, and hoteliers hurry down lime. Looking fresh and crisp, it’s magnif- psychedelic explosion of Resurrection joy. do so bilingually. Half-timbered restau- the sleepy streets to pick up fresh crois- icently set in a Gothic Dominican church. A hard-fought land on the conflicted rants serve sauerkraut and escargot. sants in time for breakfast. The Unterlinden Museum, housed in a border of Europe’s two leading powers, Jean-Claude and I are exploring Alsac- Colmar combines its abundance of art 750-year-old convent, holds the highlight Alsace is also a powerful example of the e’s Wine Road. This Route du Vin is an with a knack for showing it off. The artis- of the city — Matthias Grünewald’s grip- high culture, cuisine and art that results asphalt ribbon tying 90 miles of vineyards, tic geniuses Grünewald, Schongauer and ping Isenheim Altarpiece. It’s a series of when two great nations mix it up. villages and feudal fortresses into an un- Bartholdi all called Colmar home. Frédér- paintings on hinges that pivot like shut- derstandably popular tourist package. The ic-Auguste Bartholdi, who created our ters. Designed to help people in a hospital Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European guidebooks, hosts travel shows on public TV and radio, and organizes dry, sunny climate has produced good Statue of Liberty a century and a half ago, suffer through their horrible skin diseases European tours. You can email Rick at [email protected] and wine and happy travels since Roman days. adorned his hometown with many fine, if (long before the age of painkillers), the follow his blog on Facebook. Iconic, memorable European experiences from books and film Before ever setting foot in Europe, many would-be Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. The ritual is upheld tourists have preconceived notions of days filled with with the serving of the traditional classic pastries, finger romantic river cruises, traipsing across idyllic alpine sandwiches and scones with new twists. A Bottomless landscapes and rubbing shoulders with royals. Although Champagne Afternoon Tea and Prince and Princess Af- such fantasy adventures forged by a lifetime’s consump- ternoon Tea are just some of the other options available. tion of films, novels and popular culture are hardly typ- Online: tinyurl.com/shn8vayy ical of the day-to-day European experience, there are Live like a Viking: The Viking Reserve of Foteviken in places and means by which a dreamer really can live out southern Sweden was created to illustrate how a densely many of the clichés — and who’s to say that’s a bad thing? built-up settlement might have looked during the late Learn to make authentic Italian pizza: Naples is con- Viking Age and early Middle Ages. Within the earthen sidered the birthplace of the classic defensive walls, buildings of various styles and dimen- Margherita Pizza. The non-profit True sions depict handicraft workshops, a poultry house, a Neapolitan Pizza Association (Associazione tanner’s homestead, a fishery cottage, smokehouse, law- Verace Pizza napoletana) strives to protect man’s house, bakery, a town hall based on the construc- this heritage by promoting not only pizza, tion of a Norwegian stave church and other edifices. The but the pizzerias and the skilled profession- re-created town is inhabited by volunteers dedicated to als who produce it. In addition to its ad- KURT MÜLLER making the Viking Age come alive, livestock and students vanced courses for professionals, the orga- Zermatt, Switzerland, is a wonderful place to view the working over their summer holidays. Members of various Karen nization leads a four-hour “laboratory” for elusive Edelweiss, a delicate alpine flower. Viking associations across Europe also join the communi- Bradbury amateur chefs. The experience, led in ty for short periods of time. Those simply curious about Italian and English, is offered daily from 10 or a handful of other paths in the area, but do not touch or the Viking age who are willing to work for a few weeks as a.m.-2 p.m. and 4 p.m.-8 p.m.; the 84 euro fee includes pluck. The picking of even a single bloom can result in volunteers between July 1 and Sept. 6 are also welcome. non-alcoholic drinks, an apron and more. The organiza- thousands of euros in fines. Online: tinyurl.com/mzccpzpt Online: fotevikensmuseum.se/d/en/vikingar/volontar tion also offers guided tours through Naples' most histor- Drink tea with the queen: Although you’d probably Pretend to be Heidi and Peter in the Alps: In the east- ical pizzerias. Online: pizzanapoletana.org need to be a VIP to gain an audience with the queen, ern part of Switzerland lies the holiday region named Search for Edelweiss: The flower whose name brings a common folk are not without options. One is to visit Mad- Heidiland in honor of the famous orphan who lived with tune to the lips is rather elusive. While it can be found in ame Tussauds London, where a wax replica of Queen her kindly grandfather and befriended a goatherd named Germany and Austria, perhaps one’s best bet is to head Elizabeth awaits companions to join her for a spot of tea. Peter. In the mountains above the town of Maienfeld, instead to Zermatt, Switzerland, where many rare alpine In a setting evoking the feel of the gardens of Bucking- visitors can live out their Alpine fantasies at Heididorf. flowers including the fuzzy white Edelweiss bloom. Edel- ham Palace, visitors can enjoy a selection of scones, pas- Things to do here include checking out houses of the style weiss, which enjoys protected status, blooms in lime-rich tries or savory snacks, accompanied by a cup of tea or a Heidi would have called home and her schoolroom, mountain soil at altitudes between 1,800 and 3,000 meters glass of Prosecco. Online: tinyurl.com/3xa5y35c watching craftsmen at work and learning more about the from July through early September. Admire its beauty A second option would be to order afternoon tea at The book's author Johanna Spyri and the people who inspired along the Edelweissweg, also known as Hiking Trail 30, Rubens, an upscale hotel with a lounge overlooking the her. Online: heididorf.ch/en PAGE 20 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: TRAVEL Preserving memories Tips for keeping a travel journal to remember the priceless details

BY NATALIE B. COMPTON translucent barrier from the first The Washington Post ‘elites’.” To read them now is, e all know the joy of let’s say, humbling. traveling doesn’t Once I started travel writing as start the minute a job, I stopped making my col- Wyou leave the house lage-heavy travel journals. I and end when you get home. didn’t have time to write down There is the anticipation in the daily recaps, or space in my PHOTOS BY NATALIE COMPTON/The Washington Post days or weeks or months leading purse for 10,000 tiny scraps of Natalie Compton saves every scrap of paper she acquires and preserves them in a journal to document her up to the trip. Then, obviously paper. The last one was the jour- travels. She also recommends investing in an instant camera for adding photos to the journal instantly. there’s the trip. Once it’s over, nal I started when I moved to you have the rest of your life to Thailand in 2014, then I hung up reliable hard cover and binding look back on the memories you my Scotch tape for seven years. that won’t quit. They also come in made driving across California Then the pandemic happened. fun colors. with your best friend, weaving Then we stopped traveling. Then through the tangled markets of we got vaccinated. Then my Write in pen Mexico City, or eating gelato on boyfriend (Dan) and I booked Any old pen will not do for the Spanish Steps in Rome. tickets to France. The prospect of your travel journal. You need But the human brain is fallible going on a special trip after a pens with ink that will not bleed — or mine is at least. If I can’t horrible year made me want to through the page and ruin what remember where I put my keys revive my old travel journal you have on the other side. You on a regular basis, how am I tradition. I needed to memorial- also need ink that will look clear supposed to remember every ize the milestones: first interna- for years to come. I have come to intricate detail of my travel ad- tional trip since COVID hit; first love Paper Mate Flair Pens, ventures? trip abroad with Dan, or any which also just feel lovely to To preserve as much of the significant other for that matter; write with. magic as possible, behold the first week-long vacation from my For many years, I brought travel journal. job. colored markers to make my My first official one was a The resulting red Moleskine journal more vibrant. Writing “Is light-blue hardcover diary that I feels like a prized possession, just Thailand trying to kill me?” packs a different punch when brought on our first family trip to like the other Moleskines and you do it with black and red Europe in 1998. I don’t think my Mead Composition notebooks Natalie Compton has kept travel journals for years and has several marker. original intent was to immortal- from trips past. They are person- recommendations for starting your own. ize my vacations. I just loved alized time capsules document- Make it a handy writing down stories and having ing some of the best parts of life, tiny European bathroom, can you extra pages, the better. something to do while we sat on and this last one even more so. reference guide help me?” It helps me retain Also note down details that planes, rested at cafes and waited Should you want to make a Your travel journal can be also foreign phrases if I write them may not end up fresh in your in train stations. travel journal to prolong your practical tool for your trip. Think down, and doing that may help mind when you’re writing your That first diary is long gone, appreciation of a trip, and would of it as your address book, lan- you, too. recap at the end of the day. but I still have a collection of like some tips on doing so, here’s guage bible, ledger or to-do list. Lastly, your travel journal is a Sometimes I’ll note the names of servers, or the addresses of a travel journals from the many my advice. I have usually started my trav- great place to write down your trips that followed. el journals with a list of every trip wish lists, e.g. what works of restaurant. I would keep plane tickets, Choose a sturdy address I would like to send a art you want to see at a museum Consider getting an brochures, stubs from visits to notebook postcard to during the trip. The or which neighborhoods you cultural sites, business cards of list has been a way of remember- would like to explore. In my most instant camera When you pick a notebook for a restaurants we visited, folding ing who was important to me at recent one, I had a Paris “food One of the best decisions I travel journal, it needs to meet maps, then tape them into the different points of my life. It is and drink goals” page with line made while preparing for my function as well as aesthetic. If pages of a notebook I bought for surprising to look back and see items like getting a jambon- most recent trip to France was it’s going to be sitting on your the occasion. I would write down who were my best friends of that beurre sandwich at Caractère de buying an instant camera. After what I ate and drank and saw, bookshelf or coffee table, you era and where they lived. Cochon (which we made happen) some Googling, I bought a black foreign language essentials and want it to look good. Using the journals as a trip and having a martini at Bar He- Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 that had a highlight quotes from the trip. If But it also has to be sturdy. ledger helped me pay attention to mingway at the Ritz Paris (which flash and selfie mode. I hadn’t, I would have lost count- Something too delicate will get how much money I was spending we failed to do). The list helped Not as expensive as a DSLR less nonessential yet priceless destroyed in a carry-on bag, or on the road. Now those pages add us plan our days and also serve camera, the Instax Mini allowed details. One such instance: In crumble when you spill an Oran- more to the memories. In 2005, I as a record of what we accom- me to capture a moment and tape 2015, a British woman at a hotel gina all over it at a cafe. Choose a made a “Top 10 TERRIBLE ways plished. it into my travel journal instantly. near Italy’s Lake Como told my notebook that won’t be too much to spend/burn money” list recall- I brought the camera, backup mom, “Didn’t your mother ever of a hassle to carry. ing my Barcelona financial mis- Collect any and all scraps batteries and additional packs of tell you not to stare?” I went with Mead Composition takes (paying to use a broken A travel journal with written film, which are more expensive In addition to standard trav- Books for years; they worked for portable toilet, buying flavorless accounts alone are great, but I than you would think. Knowing I elogue content, I also wrote high- me because I was always carry- walnuts). like to illustrate mine. To do this, didn’t have unlimited film made ly embarrassing little essays. For ing a backpack or big purse to If you’re going somewhere I keep nearly every shred of me more intentional about which example, one from the 2007 flight hold it. I have transitioned to where you don’t speak the local paper that comes my way on a moments “deserved” an instant home from Corsica started with: Moleskine exclusively now. language, jot down some begin- trip. The tour guide’s business camera shot — kind of like how “This plane is a miniature model They’re not as big as the Compo- ner essentials such as “hello” and card. Bus ticket stubs. Extra knowing I didn’t have unlimited of society! We, the coach class, sitions of my youth, so they fit in “thank you” and “I am so sorry postcards. Restaurant receipts. time on the trip made me more the masses, are separated by a smaller bags, plus they have a but I’ve locked myself in your For me, the more I can find to fill intentional about savoring it. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 21 WEEKEND: TRAVEL Curtailing the tourist trade After a year without rowdy tourists, European cities want to keep it that way BY PAUL TULLIS Bloomberg n a warm Friday night in July, the sun seemed to linger behind Amsterdam’s low 16th century skyline. In the red light district, the crush of Otourists that was common before the pandemic had long since vanished, making it easy for a delivery worker to cycle past a handful of gawkers around the old town’s notorious storefronts. While six German men in matching T-shirts ignored signs warning of a 95 euro ($112) fine as they swilled beers on a nearby footbridge, they were the exception. Mostly, only small groups of sedate strollers were about on this midsummer evening. Centuries before its more lurid attractions took hold, Amsterdam was already a tourist draw. As far back as 1345, when a communion wafer at a local church appar- ently proved indestructible, pilgrims flocked to see the miracle host. In modern times, decidedly less spiritual activities have drawn millions to the city’s quaint, canal- lined quarters. And the noise, garbage and violence fol- GIULIA MARCHI/Bloomberg lowed. Tourists walk around Piazza San Marco on June 5 in Venice, Italy. While city officials say they want to jettison the The city was already scrambling to find ways to restrain negative effects of tourism overload, business owners dependent on the tourism trade are leery of losing revenue. the tourist trade before the coronavirus struck. Hefty fines for public drinking, tight restrictions on short-term rentals who brought what of amsterdam&partners director A spokesperson for the Czech Ministry of Regional and outright bans on certain types of shops were imple- Geerte Udo diplomatically called “negative effects.” Development acknowledged that taxes on alcohol and air mented. But more visitors kept coming. By 2019, their When much of Europe shut down last year, the medieval travel are determined by Parliament, but noted Prague’s numbers approached 9 million — more than 10 per resi- center of Amsterdam — a UNESCO World Heritage Site city council can submit legislative proposals. A bill from dent. — took on “a breathtaking beauty,” said Udo, whose non- the city that would provide municipalities with more pow- Then it all stopped. For months, tourists were nowhere profit serves as a civic booster. The emptiness also re- er to regulate short-term rentals is currently under consid- to be found as borders were sealed tight. Later, as infec- vealed how few locals actually live there, she said. “You eration, he said. tion waves receded, only a trickle returned. Overall, Am- feel it’s not more than a theater backdrop.” Situated in the most-visited part of the second most- sterdam’s commercial establishments have seen almost But the pandemic also made clear how important tourist visited country in the world (after France), Barcelona 25% fewer visitors since COVID-19 first arrived. euros are to the livelihood of these cities. About 13% of faces a unique challenge when it comes to transforming Even in the red light district, Barcelona’s economy and tourism. While the Spanish city’s “negative effects” are the lack of drunken revelers 11% of Amsterdam’s jobs less extreme than those endured by Amsterdam or remains apparent despite many “When I visit New York, can be tied to visitors. Prague, Xavier Marcé, councilor for tourism and creative restrictions having been lifted. Lénia Marques, assistant industries, said he wants to attract tourists interested in Locals wander wide-eyed I am interested in what professor of cultural orga- more than just its seaside location. through a part of town they rarely nization and management at “When I visit New York, I am interested in what New visit, amazed at its architectural New Yorkers do. It’s Erasmus University in Rot- Yorkers do,” he said. “It’s much better to have a tourist beauty. Among city officials, this terdam, said cities are think- model linked to culture or science, because it means that tiny silver lining to a global health much better to have a ing, “‘who is the tourist there is a connection with the resident.” catastrophe planted a seed. While we’re inviting?’ Do we want Toward this end, Barcelona designed a network of bus Amsterdam arguably needs tou- tourist model linked to this mass needing more stops to spread visitors more evenly around the city while rism to survive, maybe this once- hotels, or do we seek tourists also freezing new licenses for short-term rentals — the in-a-century pandemic could be culture or science ...” more interested in our cul- abuse of which has been a key cause of over-tourism, Mar- used to remake how the city em- ture, a tourist who will ap- cé said. braces it. Xavier Marcé preciate more of what we In Italy, some Venetians want to do the opposite of what As it turned out, local officials Barcelona councilor for tourism and creative industries have — and be able to spend Barcelona is trying. “Spread out tourism? That’s worse,” in other tourist hotspots across more?’” said Melissa Conn, director of the nonprofit Save Venice. Europe had the same idea. In recent years, Prague’s Conn said she prefers visitors stick to Piazza San Marco so Cities across the continent want to mold visits into tourist problem started to resemble Amsterdam’s, Třeští- residents can have the rest of the city to themselves. Save shapes less onerous for residents, and perhaps more lucra- ková said. The Czech capital was getting 8 million visitors Venice Vice President Alberto Nardi agreed, but warned tive for business. Optimally, a virtuous circle can be cre- a year, almost doubling between 2012 and 2019. And like that tourism is critical to the city’s survival. The owner of a ated where loud partiers are supplanted by museum-goers Amsterdam, most headed to the same neighborhoods, she jewelry shop on the piazza, Nardi said Venice’s population with more money to spend — or so the thinking goes. said. In Prague’s case, they clog the Old Town Square and has been declining, its cost of living rising and non-tourism Call it curated tourism. Charles Bridge. jobs vanishing. “We met with representatives from Amsterdam, Barce- “The city center is not a residential locality anymore, For cities looking to change who comes calling, any lona and Florence during the pandemic, and all of us were Třeštíková said. “There are not many apartments, and effort requires an advertising campaign. Amsterdam has thinking the same thing,” said Hana Třeštíková, Prague’s those are largely occupied by expats or converted to hotels launched such an effort, spending 160,000 euros to “stim- councilor of tourism. “Before COVID, over-tourism had and short-term rentals. We need to focus on what residents ulate desired behavior” by tourists — namely by attracting become almost unbearable, and COVID gave a pause to need and show a city that’s not a film set but alive with different ones. Deputy Mayor for Economic Affairs Victor try and make some changes in what our cities represent, people from Prague.” Everhardt announced the initiative in June, which in- how we promote ourselves and how we must focus on But reshaping a city’s tourist trade is harder than just cludes ads geared to urban residents in nearby countries quality of visits — not quantity.” changing marketing firms. Třeštíková said the biggest such as France, Belgium and the U.K. Not so long ago, these cities marketed themselves to factors behind “low-quality” visits aren’t in the city’s con- “We’re focusing on people who have interest in culture everyone. But Amsterdam’s widely available cannabis and trol. The cost of tickets on budget airlines, the number of in the broadest sense of the word,” he said. “We try to legal prostitution, Barcelona’s urban beaches and Airbnb units and even the price of beer can only be persuade them to visit all these other beautiful parts of the Prague’s famous beer halls increasingly attracted tourists changed at the national level, she said. city.” PAGE 22 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: QUICK TRIPS

On the QT Directions: Neustadt an de Weinstrasse region is about 30-40 minutes east of Kaiserslautern, or 90 miles northwest of Stuttgart via the auto- bahns. There also are several train connections. Food: In Neustadt an der Weinstrasse and the surrounding towns and villages, choices abound. Information: All around the Pfalz’s wine region, there are countless cycling routes to choose from. Komoot.com’s guide for the cycling routes around Neustadt an der Weinstrasse is a handy resource for anyone planning a trip. John Vandiver

JOHN VANDIVER/Stars and Stripes On the second day of our tour along the Weinstrasse we rode from Neustadt to Stars and Stripes Bad Duerkheim, where we happened Taking in the view somewhere south of Neustadt an der Weinstrasse. The wine route in the southern part of Rheinland­Pfalz is a greatupon a big wooden building with lots of sticks used to extract salt from water. pWheelslace for biking among the vineyards, with beautiful views along the way. and wine Pleasant pedaling complements the German Weinstrasse’s famous offerings

BY JOHN VANDIVER Castle, said to be the birthplace of democ- Stars and Stripes racy in Germany. We hit some fairly steep he steep, scenic vineyards scat- climbs though, which made the eventual tered around Stuttgart catch the sips of wine all the more rewarding. eye and the breath as I huff and We stopped in the minuscule village of Tpuff on my bike around town. Eshbach after a little wine place caught Indeed, Stuttgart’s hilly landscape isn’t our eye, the Bruno Wind Weingut Brenne- the most inviting when it comes to long rei. There, we sipped on rosé in a cozy bike tours, a source of familial strain and stonewalled open-air room with an old- protest when rides are suggested. world atmosphere. Refreshed, we carried In search of friendlier cycling terrain, on. we recently headed northwest for a week- We had aimed to make it to the French end on the trails along the famed Wein- border, but after about 25 miles, we called strasse, home to Germany’s second largest it quits in Bad Bergzabern, where the wine-producing region. After a train ride most notable attraction is probably the and with bikes in tow, we landed in Neus- Westwall Museum, a World War II-era tadt an der Weinstrasse, which served as bunker built to stop a French attack early our home base. in the war and later used to defend against The Pfalz wine region, an area well-trod the American push into Germany. JOHN VANDIVER/Stars and Stripes by the military community in nearby Kai- In Bad Bergzabern, we strolled the Hambach Castle can be seen in the distance. The castle is a major attraction in Neustadt serslautern, is probably visited less by picturesque old town, which was strangely an der Weinstrasse and is regarded as the birthplace of German democracy. those based in other parts of Germany. desolate for a Saturday afternoon. But But it’s worthy of a visit even if you live there were places to eat and drink. At Neustadt with Bad Duerkheim as our wooden building that uses a giant thatch of farther away. Karls Driessen’s Beerhouse, you get a breakfast destination. The route was just wooden sticks to extract salt from water. On day one, we hit the trail early, opting prepaid card to access the self-serve beer 12 miles but had a couple of unexpected The process emits a refreshing blast of for a southern route that took us from taps, which we happily did. challenging climbs that made it somewhat cool air. Neustadt down the wine roadway. We Later, we recouped in Neustadt, where strenuous. Like our southern route, it Unfortunately, we had to cut our day passed small towns where winemaking is there are lots of eateries to choose from. brought vineyards as far as the eye can short and head to the train station bound the big business. We especially liked “WeinGut,” a tapas see. The trail was peaceful, with few bik- for Stuttgart, where a steep bike ride Much of the ride was pretty flat, allow- bar, and Winus, which has a wide range of ers or hikers in the way. home awaited. ing us to cruise at a good pace as we cy- local wines. In Bad Duerkheim, we walked the city [email protected] cled past landmarks such as Hambach On day two, we headed north from park and stopped at the Gradierbau, a big Twitter: @john_vandiver Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 23 WEEKEND: FOOD & DINING Slow-cooked to perfection Patience, passion and dedication to the craft of grilling at Osteria El Gaucho

BY NORMAN LLAMAS Stars and Stripes or me, nothing beats grilled meat. So I like going to a restaurant Fthat lets me feel as if I’d grilled the food myself. Since my wife and I found Osteria El Gaucho in Mansue, Italy, we have looked forward to going back every time we crave a great steak cooked to perfection by a true grill master, who hap- pens to be of Argentine and Ital- ian descent. Jose Polesello and his wife, Jaqueline, who is of Bolivian descent, own the restaurant. Mansue is about a 30-minute drive from Aviano Air Base. The grilling process lasts four to five hours, ensuring that the meat will come out so tender and juicy that you can cut through it with a fork. “The restaurant has always offered grilled meats,” Polesello said. “Until about four years ago, we also offered a full menu con- sisting of both Italian and Argen- tinian dishes.” Nowadays, the restaurant of- fers only pizzas and an Argen- tine-style grilled meat entrée, which consists of a platter of the PHOTOS BY NORMAN LLAMAS/Stars and Stripes customer’s choice of beef, chick- Various types of meats are grilled slowly, using an Argentinian method of cooking known as Gaucho style, at Osteria El Gaucho. en, pork or Italian sausages. All dinners come with either an Argentine empanada with AFTER meat or a mixed salad as an ap- petizer, dessert and non-alcoholic HOURS beverages. ITALY Desserts are a mixture of Ar- gentine and Italian offerings. The former include dulce de leche Osteria El Gaucho and flan, while the latter include apple tarts and panna cotta with Address: Via Raganazzo 2, 31040 fruits. Mansue, VN, Italy The restaurant offers an exten- Hours: Friday to Sunday from 6 p.m. to midnight. By reservation only. sive wine menu and a small se- Depending on the number of interest- lection of mixed drinks. It also ed customers, it can be opened any offers artisanal beers and tradi- day of the week. tional nonalcoholic beverages. Prices: About 12 to 15 euros for the The children’s menu consists pizza entrees and 30 to 40 euros for of grilled chicken, hamburgers the Argentine-style grilled meat entree. The mixed grill entree from Osteria El Gaucho, in Mansue, Italy, which and hot dogs, all of which are Children’s menu prices range between is about a 30­minute drive from Aviano Air Base, features delicious served with a side of french fries. 8 and 12 euros. beef ribs, pork cutlet, chicken thighs and Italian sausages. The Polesello was born in Argenti- Menu: There’s no menu, as the restau- restaurant specializes in slow­grilled meats and pizza. na to Italian parents. In 1965, rant serves only pizzas and grilled meats. The owners speak Italian, while on vacation in Italy, Pole- As a result of the pandemic, Osteria El Gaucho doesn’t have Spanish and a little English. Some of Jose Polesello, owner of Osteria sello’s father decided that he their servers also speak limited En- the restaurant now requires a website. Google searches link to El Gaucho, shows off his would relocate his family and glish, but everyone is very friendly and reservations. It is open Friday the website of another restaurant delicious slow­grilled beef ribs. open a small restaurant in the helpful. through Sunday at 6 p.m. for with a similar name. Italian town in which he was Phone: +39 339 812 5248 pizza and at 8:30 p.m. for grilled In addition, Facebook also born. Norman Llamas meats. gives an incorrect phone number Polesello’s father was well- “Over the last year and a half, for the restaurant, so Polesello known in his town, and many a master of the grill. He knew the there were times when we would asks that customers use the num- people referred to him as “El exact temperature that meat grill a bunch of meats and no one ber provided with this article. Gaucho” because of all the years should be cooked to come out would show up to eat, and there Every time I eat here, it truly he had lived in Argentina. That’s perfectly cooked. He would show were other occasions when we feels like the best dining experi- how the restaurant’s name was me his ways of cooking various would not grill any meat and ence of my life. The Polesellos born, Polesello said. meats and he taught me how to many customers showed up ask- make customers feel like part of “I watched my father grill, and tell when a piece of meat was ing for it,” Polesello said. “That’s their family.

I always admired his passion for ready to be turned over or when why we now require customers [email protected] Pork ribs slowly grilled for hours cooking,” Polesello said. “He was it was done cooking.” to make a reservation.” Twitter: @normanllamas from Osteria El Gaucho. PAGE 24 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: FOOD & DINING

Chinese spring rolls from Fukusei are served with mildly spicy wasabi paste on the side. The crispy outside of these rolls was light and flaky and inside was a meaty filling. The side of wasabi was mildly spicy.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL BETANCOURT/Stars and Stripes The hearty gomoku umani soba from Fukusei, near Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, features vegetables, fried pork, shrimp and crab meat in a Chinese sauce. The portion size was larger than expected. Hop, skip or jump Tasty Chinese is steps away from Yokosuka Naval Base at Fukusei

BY DANIEL BETANCOURT Fukusei Stars and Stripes ust barely outside Ikego Housing Area near Yoko- Location: 1-8-15 Ikego, Zushi, Kanagawa 249-0003 suka Naval Base in Japan is a cozy and authentic Hours: Open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4:40 p.m. to 8:30 Chinese restaurant serving up some tasty noodle p.m. Closed Thursday. Prices: Appetizers and entrée range from 450 yen to 1,980 yen. dishes. J Soft drinks go for 250 yen. Alcoholic beverages start at 390 yen. Fukusei is a small restaurant but with enough space for Dress: Casual a few families; bar-style seating is available for one or two Directions: About a three-minute walk from Higashi-Zushi Station. people. The staff is Information: 46-873-9255 friendly, and the Daniel Betancourt Ramune is a refreshing Japanese beverage often enjoyed AFTER kitchen is open, by children in the summertime. which allows a view covered. The broth and noodles smelled and tasted great. HOURS of all meals being The size of the fried pork, crab meat, and shrimp ensured staff referred to as a summer soda. It was a refreshing JAPAN prepared. flavor with every bite. beverage that reminded me of a Sprite but more flavorful. The waitstaff knew After my hearty ramen bowl, I finished my meal off All soft drink options cost 250 yen. enough English to with some Chinese spring rolls costing 840 yen. The order If ramen is not your thing, Fukusei also offers a variety assist me, and they also provided an English version of came with four decently sized spring rolls with a mildly of rice and soup sets with your choice of either vegetable their menu. Fukusei is a cash-only establishment. spicy wasabi paste on the side. or meat dishes to go alongside it. These options will run I started with a bowl of gomoku umani soba ramen that These were hands down some of the best spring rolls I from 880 yen to 1,500 yen. included various vegetables, fried pork, shrimp and crab have ever consumed. The crispy exterior was light and Fukusei is available for dine-in or takeout. But if you meat in a Chinese sauce for 1,980 yen, or about $18. flaky, while the mystery filling seemed quite meaty with opt for takeout, you must bring your own containers.

I was amazed at the large portion but made no com- some vegetables mixed in. [email protected] plaint. If you enjoy meaty dishes, then this place has you To wash my meal down I opted for Ramune, which the Twitter: @Beta_Stripes Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 25 WEEKEND: QUICK TRIPS A unique little memento Collect memories at Japan’s shrines and temples with special stamps called goshuin

BY THERON GODBOLD Stars and Stripes iving and traveling in Japan, you are bound to come across one of the thousands of temples and Lshrines that dot the cities and countryside alike. Whether a Shinto shrine or a Buddhist temple, most have one thing in common in that they provide goshuin. Goshuin, which translates to “red stamp,” are unique, kanji symbols hand- written or hand-stamped by monks, pass- port like, as proof that you visited a specif- ic shrine or temple. My first experience collecting goshuin was at Shiroishi Castle in Miyagi prefec- ture, where a small Shinto shrine is locat- ed. After touring the grounds, I was of- fered a goshuin for about $3 by the older man who ran the castle. The unique kanji and design of the pa- per stamp intrigued me, and I have been on the lookout for these neat little me- mentos ever since. The stamps are collected by visitors and worshipers alike, but stamp collecting for its own sake wasn’t the original purpose. The most popular explanation holds that goshuin were used as proof that a person had copied a sutra, a canonical scripture in Buddhism. Once attained, the goshuin are placed in THERON GODBOLD/Stars and Stripes a goshuincho, or book of seals, which in Goshuin are kanji symbols handwritten or hand­stamped by monks, passport like, as proof that you visited a specific shrine or temple the past was used as a sort of passport to in Japan. It is popularly believed that goshuin were used as a sort of passport into the next life. the next life that showed your faith or devotion. This practice is still being done through- out Japan today, but less for religious reasons than for collecting the stamps on their own merit. Goshuincho books can normally be purchased at the larger shrines or tem- ples, or from online retailers. They aver- age in price from $15 to $20 on site, or less than $10 online. The average cost for the actual stamps is normally about $3 at smaller shrines and temples and about $5 at the larger, more popular ones. Proper etiquette at shrines and temples dictates that visitors make an offering in the donation box along with purchasing a stamp and remembering the site is one for making a religious observance. Since COVID-19 restrictions have been instituted throughout Japan, many of the smaller shrines are keeping the stamps next to the donation boxes where the THERON GODBOLD/Stars and Stripes stamp payment is on the honor system. Goshuin are collected by visitors and AARON KIDD/Stars and Stripes [email protected] worshipers alike, but stamp collecting for Twitter: @Godbold.Theron its own sake wasn’t the original purpose. A goshuin stamp from Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nikko, Japan. PAGE 26 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: LIFESTYLE

BY ANGELA HAUPT Special to The Washington Post lise Volkmann spent years oper- ating on EST: Elise Standard Time. Her close friends and Efamily knew that meant she Running short on time? would always be 15 minutes late. “I didn’t like it, but I didn’t know how to fix it,” says Volkmann, 30, a massage therapist in Seattle. Until one day she did: She started leaving home at least 30 min- utes before she needed to and realized that not being in a hurry was “awesome.” Christina Garrett, 36, a mom of five in Montgomery, Ala., describes herself as a recovering chronically late person. Being on time felt like “climbing Mount Ever- est,” she says. Something would inevitably pop up as she was on her way out the door, and eventually “it was expected of our family that we would arrive after the start time of any designated activity.” Garrett reached a turning point when she was pulled over by the police three times in one week because she was rush- ing. One of the officers pointed out that lots of people get into accidents because they’re running late and driving too fast — and reminded her that she had “precious cargo” in her minivan. Like Volkmann and Garrett, many of us are chronically late — to work, to dentist and hair appointments, to birthday parties and to anything else with a start time. This tardiness can be explained by a number of factors, including specific per- sonality traits and a lack of time manage- ment skills, experts say. Often, it’s caused by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which is characterized by traits such as inattention and impulsivity. iStock Chronic lateness is “extremely common among people with ADHD — more of them have it than not,” says Mary Solanto, a professor of pediatrics and psychiatry at Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine on Long Island. Those with ADHD who don’t struggle with chronic lateness typically did in the past but “were able to come up with ways to overcome it,” she says. “It’s a very big problem: People have been fired Experts offer 7 strategies to overcome chronic lateness because they’re chronically late. It has significant consequences.” In general, people with ADHD don’t have a good sense of time, says Solanto, destination, says Ellen Hendriksen, a is — don’t discount a “good old-fashioned the brakes on” is challenging, especially who developed a popular cognitive-behav- clinical psychologist based in Massachu- wristwatch.” Wearing one can help you for people with ADHD, she says. It ioral intervention program for adults with setts. You might assume it will take 20 get in the habit of checking the time and wouldn’t be surprising if you were still ADHD: “They tend to fly by the seat of minutes to drive to the movie theater — ensuring your day is proceeding according engrossed in the activity hours past the their pants and do things spontaneously, but that’s not accounting for traffic, find- to schedule, Isip says. time you were supposed to leave. and they don’t plan for many things.” ing a parking spot, walking to the en- ■ Set lots of alarms. This is one of ■ Plan what you’ll do if you’re early. Beyond people with ADHD, there are trance, standing in line to buy a ticket (or Solanto’s favorite tips for people with “Waiting is really anathema for people personality types more likely than others snacks), finding the right theater and then ADHD, but she notes that it can be useful with ADHD,” Solanto says, and many to be late, theorizes Linda Sapadin, a clin- settling into your seat. Go ahead and for anyone who struggles with punctuality. prefer to be late than to wind up with time ical psychologist in New York: check Google Maps for an estimate on “Set one for the time you have to start to kill. The solution? Bring something ■ The perfectionist, who might fuss travel time, but don’t overlook all those getting ready to leave and one for when you’ll enjoy, like a magazine you don’t get over her hair or the font size on her work transition activities. you actually have to leave the house,” she to read often or a special game you down- presentation, determined to get it right And don’t plan to arrive right on time — says. Set another alarm for whatever time loaded on your smartphone. That can even at the cost of being late. say, 7 p.m. if that’s when the dance recital your appointment starts. These frequent make the waiting time more palatable, she ■ The crisis-maker, who “needs an starts. “That literally gives you a one- audible reminders can help get your atten- says. (This can also serve Sapadin’s per- adrenaline rush to get going.” minute window in which to be on time,” tion if you’ve lost track of time. fectionist well — having something to look ■ The dreamer, who “doesn’t pay Hendriksen says. “And then anything ■ Create artificial deadlines. If you’re forward to can be reason enough to, for enough attention to detail.” after that, you’re late. If you aim to be 10 what Sapadin describes as a “crisis-mak- example, head out rather than finishing up ■ The pleaser, who says yes to every- minutes early, now you have a 10-minute er,” you crave the thrill of a tight deadline. “one more thing” at home.) one. window in which you can be on time.” So set an extra early deadline for yourself: ■ Envision how you’ll feel if you’re ■ The defier, who rebels against ex- ■ Surround yourself with clocks. If you absolutely have to be out of the late. When an alarm goes off, signaling pectations. “We’re all familiar with digital clocks, but house at 7 p.m., tell yourself you’ll leave that it’s time to start getting ready, imag- Fortunately, there are ways to overcome analog clocks — the ones with faces — by 6:30, or else. “You’re fooling yourself, ine what it will be like if you’re late to your chronic lateness, whether you have give you a different visual cue, and you but we do lots of things to fool ourselves, appointment. As Solanto puts it: “How is ADHD or simply struggle to prioritize can actually see the passing of time,” says and it works,” she says. the other person going to feel? How is the punctuality. Here are experts’ favorite Rashelle Isip, a New York-based time ■ Don’t start an enjoyable — or impor- employer going to feel, or the teacher? strategies: management coach. Prominently display tant — activity before a pressing event. How are you going to feel walking in late, ■ Figure out exactly how long it will clocks everywhere you spend time, she Solanto advises not diving into your favor- especially when there’s a group involved?” take to get somewhere, then build in extra suggests, including your living room and ite video game, or even beginning to tackle Transporting yourself to that moment, and time. People often underestimate the office. And even if you always have the a work task, in the hour or so leading up to imagining the consequences of being late amount of time it will take to reach their time in your pocket — on your phone, that your intended departure time. “Putting in visceral detail, can be very motivating. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 27 WEEKEND: BOOKS A universe much bigger than anyone believed possible ‘Secrets of the Force’ tells the definitive origin story of the ‘Star Wars’ franchise

BY JACQUELINE CUTLER Hamill says, “I thought, ‘Are we New York Daily News doing a Mel Brooks-ian send- he Force was not with up?’” him. The studio didn’t They were no more confident understand his script. on the set. Ford openly ridiculed TThe crew thought he the dialogue. Fisher complained was an idiot. Even his friends Lucas’ only acting tip was “faster thought he was making a mistake. and more intense.” And the crew, “My main reason for making it was to give young But George Lucas made “Star Hamill says, “all thought it was, to Wars” anyway. And it made him put it kindly, rubbish.” people an honest, wholesome fantasy life — the and remade Hollywood. It was during post-production “Secrets of the Force,” by Ed- that the picture started to come kind my generation had. We had westerns, pirate ward Gross and Mark A. Altman, together. Lucas’ then-wife, Mar- tells the tale and the story of the cia, a skilled editor, cut together movies, all kinds of great things. ‘Star Wars’ eight movies that followed in the amazing battle sequences. John franchise. Dykstra’s dazzling special effects is a movie for the kid in all of us.” Although subtitled a “Com- were inserted. John Williams’ plete, Uncensored, Unauthorized score added swashbuckling dra- George Lucas Oral History,” there’s little dirt. A ma. lot reads like old publicity in- The movie opened May 25, CHICAGO TRIBUNE/TNS terviews, promoting films. But it 1977. The lines at theaters were George Lucas, pictured in 2014, found little support when he set out still emerges as the definitive instantaneous. to make “Star Wars,” a film that made him and remade Hollywood. origin story. “The immediate public reac- What first defined Lucas was tion took us aback,” said producer tested Ahmed Best, the Black Abrams was brought back for 1973s “American Graffiti.” His Gary Kurtz. “What happened was actor who played him. “Adults the ninth and final episode. His debut, the dark sci-fi phenomenal.” want to pick it apart, but if they’re film undid some of Johnson’s “THX-1138,” hadn’t drawn Studios took it as a lesson on doing that, they’re missing the changes but faced its own prob- crowds. “Graffiti” needed to be a how to make a blockbuster. Crit- point.” lem: What to do about Carrie hit, but the studio wasn’t con- ics saw it as a betrayal of the “Jar Jar wasn’t racist,” co-star Fisher? The actress died un- vinced. They considered just smaller, serious movies the dec- Samuel L. Jackson insisted. “That expectedly. Should Leia be writ- selling it to TV. ade had been famous for. Some was Ahmed’s interpretation of ten out? Then the picture opened. even blamed Lucas’ “Star Wars” who he was.” Apparently, that was the plan “It stayed in the theaters for an and Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws,” The movie spawned two more until the late star’s brother, Todd entire year,” Lucas says. “For a for ruining cinema. films. More criticism, too, as Fisher, became involved. $700,000 investment, they made a “We have ruined nothing,” people carped about slow-moving “I knew there was unused $100 million return. Suddenly I Lucas protested. “And another plots and awkward perform- footage of her,” he said. “J.J. told was very hot.” thing: The films of the ’70s we- ances. Some fans wondered if it me there was footage.” He de- For his follow-up, Lucas decid- ren’t that great.” was because Lucas had gotten manded, publicly, that the series ed to return to sci-fi, but with a Lucas was proud of what he divorced from his wife, Marcia, find a way to bring her back. lighter touch. He wrote a script had created. Adding to it would said. “It flew off in all directions.” who had been in the editing room Disney, which had bought Lucas- combining “Flash Gordon” seri- consume most of his life. Critics were particularly an- for the original films. film in 2015 for $4 billion, sent als, samurai movies and myths Not everything worked. “The noyed by the new, fuzzy-wuzzy But it didn’t matter. Most of the him a cease-and-desist letter. about a hero’s quest. Star Wars Holiday Special,” a Ewoks, who looked like a ram- franchise’s original fans still Eventually, Disney gave in, Studios passed. Finally, Lucas 1978 variety show with the origi- paging race of teddy bears. They turned out, while the latest films repurposing some unused footage went to Alan Ladd Jr., an exec- nal cast cutting up with Harvey turned the picture into a kids’ attracted new ones — and new from “The Force Awakens.” utive at 20th Century Fox. Korman, looked like a shameless movie, hard-core fans com- merchandising opportunities. Once again, the film divided old “He said, ‘I don’t understand cash grab. Only Fisher seemed to plained. Lucas’ reminder that Soon it was time to start work on and new fans. Once again, the this,’” Lucas recalls. “‘Dogs flying be having any fun, and that was “Star Wars” was a kids’ movie another, final trilogy. film made hundreds of millions of spaceships? This is ridiculous and because, show writer Bruce Vi- didn’t exactly help. Once again, Lucas brought in dollars. But now, finally, Lucas’ I don’t understand what you’re lanch joked, she was “snorting But the film was another hit. other directors to help. J.J. epic saga had drawn to a close. talking about, but I think you’re the Sweet & Low.” For a while, everybody as- Abrams helmed the faithful first Except — not quite. The “Star talented.’” The first film sequels went sumed that was the end of the installment, “The Force Awak- Wars” universe continues to add Lucas secured a small budget better, though, with Lucas hand- saga. But Lucas wasn’t done. He ens.” A franchise fan, he honored new worlds — video games, car- and a modest fee. He also asked ing off directing chores. The reworked and controversially the original stars while expand- toons, movie spinoffs, TV series. for and received merchandising second episode, “The Empire re-edited the original three films. ing the cast, bringing on Oscar Forty-five years after Lucas be- and sequel rights. He had faith in Strikes Back,” had to overcome Then he began working on a new Isaac, Daisy Ridley, Adam Driver gan his story about something the film’s future, even if the stu- some real-life problems: Ford trilogy. and John Boyega. that happened, “A long time ago, dio didn’t. wasn’t eager to return, and Ha- The first new “Star Wars” film, The next film, “The Last Jedi,” in a galaxy far, far away,” the William Katt, Christopher mill was badly scarred in a car “The Phantom Menace,” pre- was more of a break from tradi- adventure continues. Walken, and Cindy Williams were crash. But that gave the film, miered in 1999 and set the pattern tion. Director Rian Johnson “My main reason for making it among the early possibilities for directed by Irvin Kershner, a for all the installments to follow: changed the pace, took the story was to give young people an hon- Luke, Han and Leia. Lucas settled darker edge, making it a fan fa- Make a ton of money while an- in unexpected directions, and est, wholesome fantasy life — the on Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford vorite. noying many older fans. Nothing introduced a new character kind my generation had,” Lucas and Carrie Fisher. They weren’t The third film, “Return of the drew more protest than Jar Jar, a played by Kelly Marie Tran. once explained. “We had west- particularly impressed with the Jedi,” directed by Richard Mar- clownish, heavily accented char- Some fans praised the approach. erns, pirate movies, all kinds of project. quand, was more problematic. “It acter that some read as racist. Others attacked it, cruelly trolling great things. ‘Star Wars’ is a mo- “When I was auditioning,” didn’t hold together,” Kershner “Jar Jar is for the kids,” pro- Tran on the internet. vie for the kid in all of us.” PAGE 28 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: MUSIC Shutdown salvation

Piero F. Giunti Los Lobos, from left: Cesar Rosas, Conrad Lozano, Steve Berlin, Louie Perez and David Hidalgo, released a Los Angeles­themed covers album, “Native Sons,” on July 30. Los Lobos nearly called it quits last year. They made a covers album instead.

BY RANDALL ROBERTS the impending doom, the vacation would have been bassadors. That they recorded it during their longest Los Angeles Times great.” respite from the road in four decades might have been esar Rosas had just finished strum- As he says it, laughter fills the room, and it’s hard not unplanned, but the extended break helped tether the ming his guitar and singing the first to hear in it some sense of relief. In addition to the grind record. lines of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” of touring, it’s been a challenging four years for Amer- The touring halt came after an average of 100 Los which the band would perform the ica’s most prominent Mexican American band. Lobos shows per year since 2000, part of a commitment next night to open a baseball game at Last month, the Grammy-winning Los Lobos — Ro- stretching back to the band’s formation in the Dodger Stadium, when he casually sas (guitar, bajo sexto, mandolin), Hidalgo (vocals, mid-1970s. “The longest we had gone from the very offered a concerning detail about the guitar, accordion), Louie Pérez (percussion, guitar), beginning without touring was probably a month, and in bCand’s status just prior to the pandemic. Conrad Lozano (bass, guitarrón) and Steve Berlin (sax- that month we were probably doing something,” noted “We were just about to throw in the towel and say, ophone, keyboards) — convened to talk about “Native Berlin, 65, who officially joined the band in 1984 after ‘Hey man, let’s slow down,’” said Rosas, 66, sitting at a Sons,” their new Los Angeles-themed covers album. playing with them for years. table inside the community center at Plaza de la Raza in Built in studio sessions during the 2020 shutdown, the For Perez, 68, the time off meant that he “had to get Los Angeles’ Lincoln Park flanked by his four Los Lo- project finds the quintet celebrating music made on its used to not having to be somewhere in 45 minutes.” His bos bandmates of 40-plus years. home turf. wife, for example, makes pasta on Sundays and early on “We were working really hard,” added David Hidal- Thee Midniters, the Blasters, Willie Bobo, War, the he jokingly made an observation about his former life. go, 66, who recalled being so exhausted early last year Beach Boys, Lalo Guerrero, Jackson Browne, Percy “I sat down with a plate and she said, ‘What are you that he wondered to himself, “How much longer can we Mayfield, the Jaguars, the Blasters and more: “Native waiting for?’ I said, ‘I’m waiting for it to get cold.’” Once do this?” The coronavirus rendered the question moot, Sons” serves as an argument for, and an ode to, the LA he said, noting after a comedic pause, “If it wasn’t for sound — as translated by one of the city’s greatest am- SEE SALVATION ON PAGE 29 Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 29 WEEKEND: MUSIC

Salvation: Los Lobos pondered its influences REVIEWS

FROM PAGE 28 was at indie publishing company Bug going on here? There’s a Tex-Mex song Perez got used to the new routine, though, Music and helped facilitate Waylon Jen- and they’re singing in Spanish.’ We’d look “It felt like those Saturday mornings when nings covering Los Lobos’ “Will the Wolf on the side and all of the kitchen team you were a kid and you wake up and think Survive?” would be there. You can imagine how they it’s a school day but you realize it’s not. It Expecting that Los Lobos’ first record felt.” felt like that every day.” for New West would be an album of new Perez called touring in the Trump years The all-covers project relieved them of material, Allen called their pitch for the “us digging in and doing what we do best, the need to compose new originals, allow- covers album “a bit of a curveball.” After which is play rock ’n’ roll — while keeping ing them to ponder their influences and to he, New West vice president of A&R Kim aware that, because of a divided America, The Killers do so while isolating with their families, to Buie and Los Lobos’ Berlin (who often our message was more important than Pressure Machine (Island) whom in most years they said hello and serves as the point person on Los Lobos ever.” Last year’s “Imploding the Mirage” saw goodbye dozens of times. “The guys are all projects) met to discuss the LA theme, any That might be one reason why, instead The Killers in wide-screen, big-tent mode, grandfathers now, so they enjoyed just hesitation vanished. of covering Latin-soul band War’s classic with songs built for an arena tour that being around the kids on a regular basis. I “If they’re inspired, you know it’s going party jams “Lowrider” or “The Cisco never happened. Faced with unexpected got to hang out with my family,” said Ber- to be good,” Allen said. Kid,” the band focused on the more politi- free time, Brandon Flowers wrote songs lin, who lives in Portland, Ore. “Honestly, not having a record deal cally charged “The World Is a Ghetto” for about his adolescent hometown in Utah “Native Sons” is Los Lobos’ 17th studio wasn’t something we thought about,” Ber- “Native Sons.” It also may be why they and decided to make a concept album. album since its 1978 debut, “Just Another lin said when asked about the New West merged the long version of the bucolic “Pressure Machine” is full of damaged Band From East L.A.” Back then, they deal. “Bands like us, well into our career, Buffalo Springfield song “Bluebird” and people and broken dreams. Compared to were Los Lobos del Este de Los Angeles that’s not the be-all-end-all.” the more protest-oriented “For What It’s “Imploding,” it’s downcast and somber, and earned a living as an all-covers wed- Also not a prerequisite is a hyperactive Worth.” Asked if they embedded certain littered with opioid casualties, religious ding band. By the time they released the social media presence, although during themes into the “Native Sons” song selec- apostates, domestic abuse and youthful EP “... And a Time to Dance,” on Slash the forced sabbatical Los Lobos recorded tion, the band didn’t have an easy answer marriages gone sour. Flowers has said he Records in 1983, they’d shortened their a number of homemade missives, includ- — other than the easiest. was inspired by stories he remembers name as they broadened their aspirations. ing one that celebrated Cinco de Mayo. “Everybody picked a favorite song, or a from being there in the ’90s, and snippets Their story has been told many times, Another encouraged fans to vote for Joe song from a favorite band,” said bassist of interviews with current residents pref- most diligently in “Los Lobos: Dream in Biden in the presidential election. Such Conrad Lozano, 70, a Beach Boys fan who ace most tracks. Blue,” writer Chris Morris’ 2015 biog- successfully lobbied for the inclusion of Bruce Springsteen’s “Nebraska” seems raphy: how the East L.A. band expanded “The city of LA really “Sail on, Sailor.” The striking rendition is to be an inspiration for the exploration of into Hollywood and West Hollywood as one of the album’s highlights. small-town characters in crisis, and Flow- part of the city’s punk and post-punk did birth us. Why not “There were certain bases we had to ers echoes Springsteen’s cadences in lines scene; how their 1984 album for Slash, cover,” adds Hidalgo. “You had East LA, like “Some nights we drive up the mouth “How Will the Wolf Survive?,” earned try something that the soul element, the Chicano or Mexican of the canyon / On hillbilly heroin pills / them national and international regard side of things, and the hippies and Laurel We get out and watch the sunset / Peace- alongside labelmates X and the Blasters; says thank you with Canyon.” ful and still — and free” (“West Hills”). how their 1987 version of Ritchie Valens’ “The city of LA really did birth us,” (The admiration is mutual: Springsteen “La Bamba” hit No. 1 on the pop charts; an homage to the Berlin says. “Why not try something that recently sang with The Killers on “Dust- how they expanded their approach as says thank you with an homage to the land.”) their artistry improved on the dynamic people that inspired people that inspired us? What could be Although ballads predominate — often 1990s albums “The Neighborhood” and cooler than that?” with fiddle from Sara Watkins; one with “Kiko”; and how, like the Grateful Dead, us? What could be That spirit permeates “Native Sons,” vocals from Phoebe Bridgers — The Kill- they’ve earned their livelihoods as a dy- notes Dave Alvin, who co-founded the ers sound most at home when the tempos namic road band across their entire run. cooler than that?” Blasters with his brother Phil Alvin. Los gallop on “Quiet Town” and “In the Car “We don’t use a setlist most of the time. Lobos covers the Blasters’ early rocker Outside.” If it’s a loose setting, then we’ll just wing Steve Berlin “Flat Top Joint” on “Native Sons.” “The — Steve Klinge it,” Hidalgo told Relix magazine in 2015. great thing about the album is how eclec- The Philadelphia Inquirer “We’ll figure out maybe the first three Los Lobos saxophonist tic the band can be. They can be Thee songs and, from there, we’ll just try to Midniters or they can sound like Percy read the crowd. If they shout out some- clips were meant to both connect with and Mayfield’s backup band. They can sound thing, then we’ll play it.” advocate for their devoted fan base. like a traditional cumbia group and they In operating this way, they’ve kept the Lyricist and multi-instrumentalist Pérez can sound like the Buffalo Springfield.” wedding-band vibe while revealing the said that such advocacy is ingrained in the Alvin witnessed Los Lobos’ versatility as depth of their musical passions. On vari- band’s DNA. He cited as one example the the band was blossoming, when Los Lobos ous nights their repertoire has included lyrics for “A Matter of Time,” from “How started gigging with the Blasters at the songs by Joni Mitchell, Bob Marley, San- Will the Wolf Survive?,” which he called Whisky A Go Go in the early 1980s. tana, Vicente Fernández, Motörhead, the “a song about an immigrant living in asy- “Three-fourths of the audience were just Grateful Dead, Richard and Linda Thomp- lum across the border.” like, ‘OK, great, man, let’s have fun.’ The son, Neil Young, Sir Douglas Quintet, “We’ve always been aware of the fact other quarter of the audience was like James McMurtry Desmond Dekker, Led Zeppelin, Buddy that there’s four brown faces onstage in deer in the headlights, especially when The Horses and the Hounds (New West) Holly, Elvis Costello, Tito Puente, the Helsinki, Finland, or in Kyoto,” Perez they put the accordion in there to play In recent months, James McMurtry Meters, Freddy Fender, Merle Haggard, stressed. “It’s our responsibility to rede- some of the norteños.” He added, “The test-drove some of this material during Sly & the Family Stone and dozens more. fine a lot of the myths that people have people who loved them loved them in- twice-a-week livestream performances That versatility permeates “Native heard about Mexican people — and con- stantly.” from his home near Austin, Texas, occa- Sons.” The opening song, “Love Special tinue to.” Though you could be forgiven for think- sionally interrupted by digital gremlins or Delivery,” is an amped-up take on an R&B Their Biden support was prompted by ing it was already a Los Angeles classic, a barking dog. song by Whittier, Calif., band Thee Mid- what they’d seen while touring, both be- the one original song on “Native Sons” is “The Horses and the Hounds” is niters. Jackson Browne’s “Jamaica Say fore and after the Trump administration the band’s newly penned love letter to the McMurtry’s first album in six years, and You Will,” from his 1971 solo debut, is a started blanketing America with anti- city that birthed it. the time taken to develop the new songs lovely torch song. Lalo Guerrero’s fast- immigration rhetoric. Led by Hidalgo’s glorious tenor, “Native shows. These 10 tunes have been wood- paced rhumba “Los Chucos Suaves” stars Their first U.S. tour in 1984 was by van, Son” illuminates a home where “there are shedded until they sound both broken in Berlin’s heavy baritone sax, a mess of Perez said, and their aim was to make an concrete rivers flowing from the moun- and built to last, which makes it standard polyrhythms and a Hidalgo solo that glides impression with audiences by celebrating tains to the sea” and “music playing on the stuff from one of music’s best storytellers. effortlessly across the measures. “Farmer the music that unified people. “We were radio from a house there down the street.” The set rocks, thanks partly to stellar John” sees Los Lobos revisiting one of the on the road in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Its refrain is as simple as it is true: “No electric guitar by David Grissom. He first first songs they ever released. Richmond, Virginia, and Burlington, Ver- matter where I lay my head / No matter worked with McMurtry more than 30 “Jerry Garcia said that their version of mont, and there wasn’t a Mexican person how far I run / I dream about the day years ago, as did producer Ross Hogarth, [the Grateful Dead’s] ‘Bertha’ was his there if your life depended on it.” you’ll take me back / I’m your native son.” who oversees handsome, varied arrange- favorite,” says John Allen, president of He added, “They were there, but they Perez wrote the lyrics. “The song is a ments that also feature cello, keyboards Nashville-based New West Records, which were still in the shadows. We found them kind of tribute to LA,” he said. “We tried and accordion. released “Native Sons.” Allen first worked in the kitchens. They would come out to create something that is us but that’s — Steven Wine with Los Lobos in the mid-1980s when he during our soundcheck and say, ‘What’s really not about us.” Associated Press PAGE 30 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: TELEVISION

Marvel Studios “What If … ?” flips the script on the Marvel Universe, re­imagining famous events from the films in unexpected ways. In one episode, Agent Carter becomes Captain Carter. Finding the ‘heart in the hero’ Disney+ show ‘What If … ?’ re-imagines familiar Marvel Studios storylines, characters in an animated alternate reality BY DAVID BETANCOURT is going to happen. in the 2018 movie that grossed a billion Watcher, who carries over from the origi- The Washington Post “The first question was never what if; dollars. Bosman died in 2020 from compli- nal comics. He’s voiced by Jeffrey Wright, hat if the Marvel Cinematic the first question is where is the heart in cations from colon cancer. who’s no stranger to superhero universes Universe had an animated the hero?” head writer A.C. Bradley said. Working with Boseman left a lasting on film. He recently finished filming Matt alternate reality? “Where’s the humanity in these iconic impression on “What If … ?” producers, Reeve’s “The Batman,” playing the new W That’s the premise behind characters that we’ve all spent so many none of whom knew that the actor was ill Commissioner Gordon. Filming one super- the new series “What If … ?,” which began years watching on-screen and growing up or that the vocals he was recording would hero movie role in the heart of a pandemic streaming the first of its nine episodes on reading comic books? How do we get be- represent his last MCU performance. was quite different from voicing one. Disney+ Aug. 11. It marks Marvel Studios’ yond the shield? So, with Peggy Carter it “He was excited about playing a slightly “We slogged to make [‘The Batman’] in first foray into the world of animation, was as simple as: She was a woman in the different riff on T’Challa because he cares really challenging conditions,” Wright while taking inspiration from the classic 1940s who says I’m staying in the room, for T’Challa and all that T’Challa repre- said. “I enjoy the specificity of voice work. “What If … ?” comics that began in 1977. and how is that going to change the sents so much,” Andrews said. “I think In this case I enjoy joining the MCU from Those comics — and the show — use the world?” since he knew what he was going through, my bedroom closet … with or without power of the hypothetical, remixing clas- When she and director Bryan Andrews he saw this as one more opportunity to pants. I like to have that optionality. I sic storylines and taking Marvel charac- brainstormed ideas, Bradley joked about bring a slightly different color, a different recorded some of these episodes during ters to places even the most well-read fans wanting to do an episode where Thor shade, to what we think of [T’Challa]. the pandemic, so we had to improvise.” wouldn’t see coming. love-interest Jane Foster becomes Thor — Here’s T’Challa with a little bit more of a The Watcher is an alien being who nev- The very first issue of “What If … ?” but she was told not to pursue it because light heart; he’s got more jokes in him. er involves himself in the alternate-reality imagined Spider-Man joining the Fantas- that’s actually the storyline of Taika Wait- We’re thankful that we have another per- scenarios that the show presents, only tic Four (although that did end up happen- iti’s next Thor movie. formance with him.” observing and verbally setting the stage ing in the mainstream comics). “What If Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, Bradley says Boseman understood the for the unexpected. He is an intergalactic … ?” the series will use similar storytelling the architect of its past decade of intercon- impact of T’Challa on younger generations cosmic fanboy. tactics but will apply them to the first nected storytelling, was a part of the deci- who saw the Black Panther stand shoulder Wright used his now 19-year-old son’s decade of Marvel Studios on film. sion-making process. According to Bra- to shoulder with MCU icons Iron Man and encyclopedic knowledge of Marvel — and One episode features Agent Peggy Car- dley, Feige’s uncanny ability to read the Captain America in the movies, and he memories of taking him to see Marvel ter, voiced by Hayley Atwell, the actress pulse of the MCU fandom was an invalu- knew such imagery was important to the movies in theaters — as his inspiration for who portrayed her in the Captain America able asset. future of Marvel Studios. the character. movies, when she was the love interest to In one episode, T’Challa, the prince of “When [Chadwick] came to record, he “He is his own being. He’s described [in Chris Evans’ Steve Rogers. In “What If Wakanda, doesn’t grow up to become king didn’t bring his A-game, he brought every comics] as the most dramatic being in the …?” she’s the soldier who takes the super- and take on the mantle of the Black Pan- damn sport with him. He was the best,” known universe,” Wright said. “He’s got serum and is handed a shield, becoming ther. Instead, he is whisked to space as a Bradley said. “We didn’t realize at the powers that are unique to him … but he’s Captain Carter. child and grows up to become Star-Lord, time that we were in the room with a leg- also omnipresent but in some ways quiet- The goal of each episode is to reel the leader of the Guardians of the Galaxy. end that we were going to lose too quick- ly. So in a sense, he’s not being introduced viewer in with familiar MCU moments T’Challa is voiced by the late Chadwick ly.” now. He’s always been there. He’s always before they realize they have no idea what Boseman, who played the Black Panther The series’ narrator and overseer is the been there watching.” Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 31 WEEKEND: TELEVISION Showing ‘complexities’ of being human on TV Gordon-Levitt: Like ‘Mr. Corman,’ ‘real people’ are not ‘broken or weird’ if they’re not happy 100% of the time

BY KATE FELDMAN everybody I talk to about this either has New York Daily News these feelings themselves or knows some- oseph Gordon-Levitt is rocking his one who has,” Gordon-Levitt said. “That’s return to the TV universe. The one thing I really hope, that you can watch “3rd Rock from the Sun” star does this character and relate to him and real- Jit all in “Mr. Corman,” his most ize you don’t have to be some extreme prominent small-screen project since the version. You can be a pretty outwardly 1990s NBC sitcom. He wrote the half-hour normal person and have a lot to be grate- show, he directed almost every episode ful for: be doing pretty well, have a job, and he stars as the eponymous teacher have a place and still have some of these FOX/TNS struggling to just exist in his mediocre life. feelings. You’re not broken or weird.” Roselyn Sanchez (Elena Roarke) welcomes you to a brand­new version of “Fantasy The Apple TV+ series, which pre- But while everyone around him is genu- Island,” the show which first ran from 1977 to 1984 and starred Ricardo Montalban. miered this month, isn’t necessarily sym- inely trying to help — at one point, his pathetic to Josh Corman, a Los Angeles roommate lies on top of him in the middle native who dreamed of being a rock star, of the living room in an attempt to repli- fell short due to a lack of ambition or tal- cate a weighted blanket neither of them ‘Fantasy Island’ reboot: ent or both, and now shepherds a group of can afford — Josh is more comfortable fifth-grade students through adolescence living in his own angst. and science class. “Mr. Corman,” in that sense, feels nor- Same premise, new cast Gordon-Levitt is sympathetic to Josh. mal. The guy who’s fine but not thriving is “It’s a story about a person who has a lot familiar, probably in your own life, too. BY KATE FELDMAN pilot, Javier (John Gabriel Rodriquez), to be grateful for and does his very best to The show takes it bigger though, with New York Daily News who shepherds the guests to and from the be happy but would have to lie if he was artistic reality breaks that take a step Elena Roarke can make her guests’ island but is also keeping his own secrets. going to tell you he was happy 100% of the outside of Josh’s mundane life. dreams come true. But, much like her Where Ruby and Elena form a burgeoning time. That’s just human,” the 40-year-old “Sometimes in my opinion, feelings predecessor, she won’t do it how they friendship, Javier and Elena are more actor told the Daily News. “Those sorts of don’t feel realistic. They feel bigger or asked. antagonistic: a push-and-pull of two head- complexities aren’t always presented on weirder or unexpected. They feel like The reimagined “Fantasy Island,” airing strong people, one who wants to help and TV. You often see someone who’s saintly they’re just exploding in your brain and stateside on Fox, follows the big picture of one who won’t accept any. or who’s terrible. You see someone who’s you don’t know what to make of them,” the original series: a mysterious island, a “There’s that mystical, fantastical ele- a hero or a villain. I wanted to tell a story Gordon-Levitt told The News. “For those mysterious host and a steady rotation of ment, the mystery of why the island choos- about someone who’s more like how real kinds of feelings, I don’t know that a scene guests looking for hope. es who it chooses,” Rodriquez told The people are: They’re kind of imperfect, of grounded realism really evokes that Some, like the first episode’s guest, News. “I think that it chose him for a few sometimes they feel one way, sometimes emotion in the audience. For those mo- played by Bellamy Young, want extrava- reasons, for his own healing but he’s also they feel another way; they’re doing their ments when Josh is feeling those larger- gance. Some want answers. Some want a there to provide support and healing for best. Not feeling happy 100% of the time than-life, hard-to-understand feelings, we second chance. Elena.” can be sad. It can be anxiety-inducing go into these subjective fantasies where “People go to the island with something There’s a sense in “Fantasy Island” that sometimes. It can also be funny though!” he’s floating through space and the stars they want,” Roselyn Sanchez, the 48-year- the island is controlling everything. San- The nicest way to describe Josh Corman become sperm and the moon becomes an old Puerto Rican actress who plays Elena, chez referred to it as a “god.” No one is that he mopes a lot. There’s nothing egg or he’s doing an old-fashioned song- told the Daily News. “That doesn’t mean knows who or what is controlling it, but particularly wrong with his life. He has a and-dance on the rooftop of his childhood that’s what they need.” the island knows all, even that a couple, good job that should pay better. He has an home with his mom.” The original “Fantasy Island,” which played by real-life husband and wife Dave apartment with a roommate (Arturo Cas- After he finished writing the first draft, ran from 1977 to 1984, starred Ricardo and Odette Annable, seeking thrills and tro) who genuinely cares about him. His Gordon-Levitt ran the “Mr. Corman” Montalban as Mr. Roarke, Elena’s ances- adventure really just need to talk. family life is messy, but not awful. But script past a doctor of neuropsychology to tor. Elena, who stands guard over the And it knows that it needs Elena. Josh can’t seem to get past the sinking get her perspective. island, as is her family’s birthright, isn’t “She got stuck. She was in love. She was feeling that he deserves more. “I asked her, ‘What’s your biggest fear? necessarily in charge. The island does as it engaged. She wanted to have a normal life. “I saw a doctor one time because I was What do you really not want Hollywood to pleases, and she’s merely tasked with Even though she’s very proud to be a concerned. ‘Man, my brain’s going around get wrong in portraying this?’” he told The serving as a conduit to the guests. Roarke, she wanted to deviate from what in circles a lot and this shouldn’t be hap- News. “She said, ‘I would really hope that Ruby Akuda, played by Kiara Barnes, everybody does with that last name,” pening.’ I came away without a diagnosis this story can not stigmatize anxiety, but started out as one of those guests, an old Sanchez said. of any clinical anxiety disorder … (but) I rather normalize it.’ She knows how nor- woman dying of cancer who wanted to feel But when she tried to pass on the job think it’s super common and it seems like mal it is.” young and healthy and vibrant one more and turn it over to someone else, the island time. The island gives her that, but it also retaliated. keeps her, trading her new body for a life “Maybe resentment isn’t the right word, of devotion. but her heart wasn’t in it,” Sanchez said. Neither Ruby nor Elena know why the “At the end, it very much becomes her island picked her, just like they don’t know choice because she understands her re- why the island picks its guests, but she is sponsibility. There’s nothing more beauti- meant to be there for some reason. ful than helping people.” Unlike Elena, Ruby has lived her entire Elena’s guests eventually realize that life outside, raising children and grand- she is only trying to help, even if that children, watching and fighting the world. doesn’t always mean waving a magic She looks young now, but she carries 75 wand and fulfilling their wish exactly as years of experience. presented. They have to work a little har- “I can put on the same Jonas Brothers der than that. T-shirt I wore when I was 13; I can do my “It doesn’t go as planned a lot of the hair the same way,” Barnes, 26, joked, time, because where there’s growth, “but I won’t necessarily be thinking the there’s pain,” Sanchez said. “They have to same way I did.” go through a little bit of pain before they APPLE TV+/TNS The third member of their team is the can actually see the rainbow.” Joseph Gordon­Levitt appears in a scene from “Mr. Corman” as the titular character. PAGE 32 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: HEALTH & FITNESS

BY LIZZY LAWRENCE beef tastes rancid and peanut The Baltimore Sun butter is a “no-go.” ne day in kindergar- “You just never know from day ten, Alex Pieraccini to day what you can eat; you sat and watched her don’t ever get that real hunger Opeers pass around feeling,” Creed said. “I wouldn’t spices, sniffing them as a sensory wish this on my worst enemy.” exercise. While there are no life-threat- Pieraccini, now 30, couldn’t ening side effects to losing the smell anything. ability to smell, Dalton said “I was like, ‘Nothing is happen- “strong evidence” points to smell ing,’” said Pieraccini, a psycholo- loss causing depression, especial- gist living in Baltimore.“I re- ly among those who lost it sud- member telling adults and not denly. being believed for a long time.” There are also safety implica- Pieraccini has congenital anos- tions, as people can’t smell dan- mia, the chronic inability to gers like smoke, natural gas and smell. It is a rare condition — rotten food. It can also cause approximately 1 in 10,000 people weight loss. had it according to 2016 figures from the U.S. Department of Treatment options Health and Human Services’ Treatment depends on the Genetic and Rare Diseases In- cause of the loss of smell, said formation Center. Lane, of the Hopkins Sinus Cen- But now, millions more have ter. He’ll treat patients with sinus lost their smell as the preeminent problems with anti-inflammatory symptom of COVID-19, and steroids or, if the case is severe, many haven’t regained all of it. surgery. Unfortunately, there’s The increased attention afford- not much doctors can do for ed to smell loss as a chronic con- congenital, viral or trauma-relat- dition has prompted new studies, ed anosmia piquing the interest of olfactory KIM HAIRSTON, BALTIMORE SUN/TNS Younger people stand a better researchers bent on understand- Alex Pieraccini chops an onion July 8, as she prepares dinner in her home. Pieraccini has congenital chance of recovering their sense ing more about the coronavirus. anosmia, the chronic inability to smell. Approximately 1 in 10,000 people have the condition. of smell, Dalton said, though Meanwhile, scientists have not nothing is guaranteed. Recovery yet found conclusive treatments may be linked to the passage of for smell loss. time, she said, since the olfactory At a minimum, the pandemic tissue can regenerate. has highlighted the everyday Smell retraining therapy is one struggles of people living with method people use to try to reha- what some have termed an “in- Under our noses bilitate the sense. Dalton said visible disability,” one that people who enroll in olfactory makes life more difficult but training or smell retraining ses- might not be easily detected. It sions earlier tend to report more could also prompt breakthroughs COVID-19’s olfactory side effects have brought increased thorough recoveries. The treat- for scientists and researchers in ment doesn’t work, however, for the field. attention to the ‘invisible’ sufferings of those with anosmia people who could never smell. “I was made to feel invisible Creed has used a smell train- because people don’t understand, tion to the long-term effects of formation technology specialist by congestion, Dalton said, mak- ing kit with scents like orange, so a little part of me has had a lot anosmia. The center has been living in Alexandria, Va. “She ing it more unusual. tea tree oil and peppermint, of validating experiences” during busy fielding frantic calls for nearly dropped the bottle,” think- “The way it shuts down the though she hasn’t had much the pandemic, Pieraccini said. help, she said. ing he had COVID. system is like a light switch,” success. She can remember what “Another part of me is like, ‘Why The rush in attention has Dalton said. “People go to sleep each is supposed to smell like but did it take this long for it to be a caused some resentment among Varying types and causes or they have breakfast and all of the scents still emerge distorted. visible thing?’” people who have dealt with loss There are several different a sudden everything’s changed. Halstead has made some casu- A spike in recognition of smell in the long term, Dalton types of anosmia, or smell loss It’s really dramatic.” al attempts to find the cause of According to Google Trends, said. disorders, ranging from tempo- A study published in January his anosmia. Ultimately, though, Google searches for the term “Not surprisingly, people are rary and partial to chronic and looked at 2,581 patients from 18 he feels he doesn’t need treat- “loss of smell” in the United like, ‘I’ve had this for 20 years permanent. Some people grow up European hospitals and found ment. His anosmia isn’t as emo- States jumped from an interest and I’ve coped with it.’ They’re without the ability to smell, while that almost 86% of people with tionally distressing compared to value of 3 to 100, the maximum, resentful that there wasn’t more others acquire the condition mild COVID-19 develop anosmia. those who acquired it — he the week of March 22, 2020. attention paid to it before,” Dal- through traumatic brain injuries, Ninety-five percent of them re- hasn’t lost anything. Searches hit another high in the ton said. severe burns or viruses. Some gained their sense of smell after “To me, it’s not life-altering,” last week of December, as the Lane hopes the added attention people, especially those recover- six months. But for some, symp- Halstead said. “It’s just a quirk.” nation approached a peak in will lead to more treatment op- ing from COVID-19, experience toms that included anosmia per- The Monell Center has devel- average new cases per week. tions for all kinds of smell loss. parosmia, or smell distortion. sisted — an occurrence known as oped a smell test to screen for Dr. Andrew Lane, the director “This will potentially be a boon Some people lose some of their long-haul COVID. COVID-19, which tends to be a of the Johns Hopkins Sinus Cen- to people who’ve lost their sense ability to smell due to age. And Dalton said it’s not clear why better predictor for the virus ter, said the virus appears to of smell for other reasons, be- there are environmental and some people lost their sense of than taking temperatures or specifically target olfactory cell cause all this attention and re- occupational factors that can smell as a symptom of the dis- testing for respiratory symptoms. tissue, which is necessary for the search will potentially lead to erode the sense over time, Dalton ease while others didn’t, though More people are reaching out to development of odor-sensing some better understanding,” said, such as air pollution or toxic there may be an underlying bi- be included in research trials, cells. This is why smell loss is a Lane said. fumes. She has worked closely ological reason. Dalton said. common symptom of COVID-19. Ken Halstead, 38, says he is with firefighters who responded Christine Creed, 51, said it was In the meantime, with no effec- “People may not even know it, cautious now about disclosing his to the 9/11 attacks, for example. frustrating to see friends who’d tive treatment in sight, Canton’s because people aren’t that in long-term inability to smell be- COVID-19 attacks cells and contracted COVID-19 recover Pieraccini has found it helpful to tune to their sense of smell,” cause of its association with CO- causes inflammation, including their smell after only two weeks. ask friends or loved ones to help Lane said. “If you test people VID-19. Around Christmas, he in the areas around the receptors Creed, who lives in Dundalk, her fill in the gaps when she’s formally, you would probably was in a liquor store when a in a person’s nose. The inflam- Md., caught the virus in Novem- afraid of missing something. find even more of it.” woman recommended he check mation can last days or weeks, ber and couldn’t smell for about a “Having people you can trust Pamela Dalton, an olfactory out new peppermint Smirnoff even months. But unlike other month or so. — who will be there to help you researcher at the Monell Chem- bottles with scratch-and-sniff viruses that can affect a person’s Now, she’s still experiencing out and understand and believe ical Senses Center in Philadel- labels. ability to smell or taste, such as smell distortion. Some days, you when you say you’re having phia, said the pandemic may “I said, ‘Oh, I have no sense of the common cold, the coronavi- she’ll smell nonexistent cigarette this difficulty — is really impor- have caused people to pay atten- smell,” said Halstead, an in- rus is not typically accompanied smoke. Vegetables have no taste, tant,” she said. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 33 WEEKEND: FAMILY

Carb unloading after years of happiness We used to be so good together. You comforted me. You made me happy. I loved you ... But after all these years, I’ve become too dependent and I now realize, it just isn’t healthy. I need more balance in my life. I need to strike out on my own and try new things. It’s not you, it’s me. Carbohydrates, I’m breaking up with you. In the early days, I couldn’t foresee how addicting our relationship would become. I didn’t fear our love affair, be- cause I believed the science of the 1990s, which decreed that low-fat carbs were healthy fuel for my body. I was so naive, JENNA FRUER/AP ignorantly indulging in second helpings of sticky rice, snack- Cole Kleis, 20, photographed last August, stands next to a 1932 Ford coupe in front of a garage of old cars he’s ing on crackers and adding a hunk of ciabatta bread along- been restoring with his family in Napa, Calif. He is an exception to the theory today's teens don’t care about cars. side my lasagna. Oh, the ciabatta bread! When I gained weight, I never blamed you. I thought fats were my enemies. As long as I didn’t put peanut butter, mayo or cheese on my sandwich, I believed it was health food. As long as I ladled red sauce instead of white on my Rite of passage no more heaping plate of spaghetti, it was good for me. As long as I used skim milk — a big bowl of cereal, a glass of juice and butter-less slices of toast were the perfect breakfast. What a Automakers struggle with marketing cars to today’s teens in no rush to drive fool I was! When I married a Navy man, you didn’t leave me. In fact, BY JENNA FRYER Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motor- we were all quite happy. Together, you and I won my new Associated Press sports. husband’s heart, and his stomach, too. We knowingly trig- ichael Andretti has a 21-year-old son with “I think what is important to them is staying connect- gered the salivating jets under his tongue, as we plied him zero interest in obtaining a driver’s li- ed in a safe way,” Rushbrook said. “The vehicle is an with homemade pasta dishes, starchy casseroles, pies and cense. Rideshare apps get him where he extension of their iPhone or their screen device, they cookies. We moved, unsuspectingly, from duty station to Mwants to go. want to stay connected and bring their music and every- duty station — fat, dumb and happy. In New Jersey, the 16-year-old daughter of a local thing else with them into the car.” While stationed in Monterey, Calif., you introduced us to short-track racer took a five-minute driving lesson on a Mark Reuss, president of General Motors, said he the wiles of sourdough. We were so naughty, loading chowd- golf cart through their yard before turning over the believes there is still a market for teens who care about er into your bread bowls. While stationed in England, you keys. “That’s it, I’m done. Don’t like it,” Kat Wilson told more than just Apple CarPlay and USB ports. never told us that the baked beans the English dollop on her father. “You still have to deliver connectivity in something their breakfast plates, pour over their toast and glob on their The teenage rite of passage of rushing to the DMV on people love to look at and be seen in,” Reuss said. “That baked potatoes were as bad as the scones, biscuits and pud- your birthday to get that plastic card that represents generation has not been lost. They still want a great dings. Excess glucose surged through our blood while we freedom has changed dramatically over the last 30 looking car, great looking interior and have fun driving were stationed in Germany, as we washed pretzels, noodles years. Data collected from the Federal Highway Ad- it, and I don’t care if it’s a turbo-charged three cylinder and potatoes down with wheaty beers. In Florida, we were so ministration and analyzed by Green Car Congress (fuel efficient car) or a 660 horsepower blown LT4 busy avoiding fried pickles, sausage gravy and boiled pea- showed that in 2018 approximately 61% of 18-year-olds (high-performance vehicle). Driving a fun car doesn’t nuts, we didn’t notice that you were secretly feeding our in the U.S. had a driver’s license, down from 80% in have to be the most expensive, most powerful car. addiction with sweet tea, sticky barbecue sauce and starchy 1983. The number of 16-year-olds with licenses de- There’s lots of different ways to make cars appealing corn bread. You followed us to New England, tempting us creased from 46% to 25% in the same period. and that doesn’t go away.” with molasses-sweetened brown bread, clam cakes, frozen The trend that began with millennials has been am- Veteran NASCAR driver Ryan Newman is a self- lemonade, maple syrup, whoopie pies, johnnycakes and Boston Cream Pie. plified by Generation Z, with teens citing myriad rea- professed “car guy” with a nearly 10,000-square foot Worst of all, I could never seem to resist the chocolate with sons for putting off or avoiding getting a driver license. garage full of classic cars. He learns everything he can which you regularly seduced me. How could you smugly Some prefer more environmentally friendly trans- about his cars, refurbishes them back into driveable stand by while I wallowed in guilt over the fat content? Little portation options, some found driving too stressful and condition and knows exactly what’s under the hood. did I know, your sugar was the culprit all along! some just don’t care about cars. Newman believes kids can learn to love cars the way You betrayed me, and as hard as it is for me to say this, it’s In suburban Boston, high school senior Celeste Rob- he did if adults just showed them how. over. inson has relied on friends with cars or public trans- “Get them involved; cars aren’t at their fingertips in Sure, you will always be a part of my life, but I’m ready to portation. real life,” Newman said. “God gave us our senses to go explore the rest of the food pyramid. The grilled meats, crisp “There is the question of independence, at least that’s out and enjoy them and just by enjoying them on a video vegetables, juicy fruits, nutritious nuts, olive oils and avoca- what I’m told all the time,” Robinson said. “But I’m an game is not the right way to do it.” dos … the glorious avocados! I don’t mean to hurt you, but anxious person and driving does seem intimidating to Cole Kleis, 20, of Napa, Calif., attends Colorado State there are a lot more fish (like salmon with a generous slath- me. I’ve tried it and it just feels very hard. And I do love University at Pueblo, majoring in automotive industry ering of yogurt dill sauce) in the sea. public transportation, so I plan things very much in management. He took his first job in a dealership at age When we do run into each other, I hope we can be civil. I advance and make sure I can get a train there.” 12 cleaning cars, sweeping floors and helping in the won’t rudely turn away from you on special occasions (espe- Although market research firm J.D. Power found that parts department. cially if you come in the form of homemade macaroni and millennials accounted for 32% of new car sales in 2020, Kleis was given more responsibility over the years cheese with buttered breadcrumbs on top), but let’s keep our higher than that of any other age group and ahead of and used his time to learn as much as he could. He can contact to a minimum. Of course, the kids will still want to baby boomers for the first time, Gen Z is content wait- change a transmission, replace an alternator, diagnose have you around, but during scheduled visitations, please ing for wheels. the weird sounds and, in his free time, he is restoring a keep your high-fructose corn syrup to yourself. It’s a conundrum facing the automobile industry as 1938 Packard Six initially purchased brand new by his One last thing before you go. If, by chance, I should have a carmakers look to make their vehicles appealing to great-grandparents. moment of weakness over, let’s say, a bag of Hershey’s Kiss- tomorrow’s drivers. The automakers are addressing the The key for the auto industry is to not only identify es during a hormone spike, I can tell you right now that it issue with the obvious — a generation raised on tech- gearheads such as Kleis, but also build cars that entice will be a nothing more than a meaningless fling. nology likely will be most interested in cars with the his peers to get their license and start driving. There’s a So long, excess carbs. It’s been nice knowing you. newest features and connectivity. large portion of Gen Z that has wishes and wants in a Read more at themeatandpotatoesoflife.com, and in Lisa’s book, The Meat and Potatoes of “A big screen” is what teen drivers want, said Mark car that automakers never before had to consider. Life: My True Lit Com. Email: [email protected] PAGE 34 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 WEEKEND: CROSSWORD AND COMICS

NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD

JIGSAW PUZZLE 12345 6789 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 BY CHRISTINA IVERSON AND JEFF CHEN / EDITED BY WILL SHORTZ 22120291 Christina Iverson, of Ames, Iowa, is a stay-at-home mom with two young kids. Jeff Chen is a writer and professional crossword constructor in Seattle. This puzzle’s theme started with the vague concept of moving pieces and morphed from dominoes to 62524232 magnets and finally to jigsaws (“all interests of my son,” Christina says). This is the pair’s second Sunday collaboration. — W.S. Note: When this puzzle is done, insert the five shaded jigsaw pieces into the box at the bottom to get a three-word phrase, 03928272 reading across, for what jigsaw puzzles provide. 8373635343332313 ACROSS 49 State flower of Utah 105 Confer, as credibility 15 Keats, for one 54443424140493 1 Part of a pie or the 50 One of the B’s in 106 Gets wild and crazy 16 Sounds in a yoga earth BB&B 108 Legendary studio 0594847464 6 Style that makes 51 Field work of note in 109 Leave skid marks, 17 Government economic 655545352515 waves 1979 maybe org., at any rate? 10 Doe in a court case 54 Rifle, in frontier lingo 111 N.F.L. standout 18 ____-Cat 261606958575 57 ‘‘To connect things up 113 Homes for high fliers 28 Big suit 14 Flubs you’ll have to ____” 0796867666564636 114 Instruction to drivers 29 Derby, e.g. 19 Keister 63 Ones getting the leaving cars at a 30 Menial laborer, 47372717 crumbs? garage metaphorically 20 China holder? 2818089787776757 66 Bonnie with five Top 115 ‘‘C’mon, slowpoke!’’ 31 Loads 40 hits in the 1990s 21 Axe target 116 Ends, as a mission 32 Take back, for short 7868584838 67 Euphoric feeling 117 Mary Poppins, for 33 Retreat 22 Some Madison 71 Love to bits 9888 Avenue workers one 36 ‘‘Was it ____ I saw?’’ 72 More like a dive bar 118 Pick up on (classic palindrome) 99897969594939291909 23 End of many a sports or certain bread 37 Mists, e.g. broadcast 74 Beehives, but not 401301201101001 hornets’ nests DOWN 38 Feeling it after a 24 Freestyles, perhaps marathon, say 801701601501 75 Daredevil’s hashtag 1 O-line anchor 41 Approves 25 Barflies 76 Very in 2 Feel regret 011901 111 112 3 Trojans’ sch. 42 Perspective 26 Botch 78 One of the B’s in 113 114 BB&B 4 Distinctive part of a 43 Achievement for 27 ‘‘First, you’re going to Whoopi Goldberg, 79 Good name for an cookie cutter 115 116 want to dump out the in brief investor? 5 ‘‘Tap tap tap . . .’’ box and ____’’ 44 Like cioccolato or 117 118 82 High-end Italian auto, activity 31 Francis of old game torta informally 6 Get into a lot shows 47 Titus and Tiberius 83 ‘‘As you go, make sure 7 Jacob’s brother, in the 34 Bounded 73 Creamy Italian dish 84 Brain diagnostics, for 95 Sugar ending you exercise your Bible 50 Bosom buddies 63 ‘‘You’ll ____ for this!’’ short 96 W.W.II fighters 35 Capital on a 126-mile- ____’’ 8 Moved like waves or 52 Staple of skin care 64 Words with a ring to 76 Word that becomes long canal that’s 88 At peace muscles 53 Sought office them? its own opposite by 85 Used as a 97 Apps made with rendezvous point jalapeños and cheese used as a skating 89 Little bouquets 9 A certain degree 55 U.P.S. competitor 65 Letter between putting a ‘‘T’’ at the rink in the winter front 86 Devote 98 ‘‘You agree?’’ 90 ‘‘ka-POW!’’ 10 St. ____ University 56 Steady, maybe foxtrot and hotel in 39 English breakfast, e.g. the NATO alphabet (*nudge, nudge*) 93 ‘‘With patience and (Philadelphia 58 Wrath 77 Singer whom M.L.K. 87 Name suffix meaning ‘‘mountain’’ 99 Gathers some intel 40 ‘‘What’s most useful perseverance you’re school) 59 Exercise program 68 How people often Jr. called the ‘‘queen next is to ____’’ sure to ____’’ 11 Rescue dog, for one since the 1990s scroll through social of American folk 90 Fir tree 101 Actor Brody media 45 College-app 97 Course goal 12 Response to the Little 60 Sharp, on a TV, music’’ 91 ‘‘Is it still a date?’’ 104 Singer Willie component 100 Songs that can be Red Hen informally 69 ‘‘That’s gotta hurt!’’ 80 Play again, as a TV 92 Roman goddess of 106 Annoying 46 Role for “Ronny” trilling? 13 Language related to 61 Peak sacred to the 70 ‘‘The Puzzle Palace’’ special wisdom 107 Grannies Howard 102 Castigates Manx goddess Rhea org. 81 Companion in 94 Prefix with color or 110 Blood line 48 Joshes 103 Fairy-tale figure 14 Egg, e.g. 62 Noshed on 72 More straight-faced Brittany state 112 Temporal ____

GUNSTON STREET RESULTS FOR ABOVE PUZZLE

E S N E S S T N E M O M Y N N A N

S T R O B A T C E F R E P T I E V O M

N I E S O N E R U T C I P S E I R E A

O R P L L A E V R E W S

C I P E N W O D S E I T R A P D N E L

E M O N G O T N I S R A E T S A I R A

R A P R E H T E G O T T I T E G M A B

S E I S O P E N E R E S

Y L B M E S S A F O M O D E E R F

A F L A A R I D E B T O H O L O Y

S O D P U R E I D E E S E R O D A

N O I T A L E T T I A R S N O E G I P

S E H C T A M H T I W Y A L P

Y S T E B D L O E A R A M R O N

H T A B O G E S S D I K E I P O

“Gunston Street” is drawn by Basil Zaviski. Email him at [email protected], and online at gunstonstreet.com. C E R E G D E E H T R E V O O G A E T

A W A T T O T P A E L E N E L R A

S E C E I P E H T P U K C I P

O D S I M S T O S S P A R P A C E R

N E M D A R O D O A I S A Y H S U T S F O O G E N A J M R E P T S U R C Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 35 FACES Quietly assertive

BRENT N. CLARKE/AP Meganne Young has Garth Brooks performs on stage during the Gershwin Prize Honoree’s Tribute Concert at the DAR Constitution a few things in common Hall on March 4, 2020, in Washington. with her character in ‘The Kissing Booth 3’ Garth Brooks cancels remaining show dates From wire services Country star Garth Brooks is canceling his remaining stadium tour dates in five cities due to rising COVID-19 NETFLIX/TNS cases. Joel Courtney as Lee and Meganne Young as Rachel in “The Kissing Booth 3.” Brooks had said weeks ago that he would be reassessing the tour in light of the surge in cases. Tickets will be refund- BY RUTH ETIESIT SAMUEL pat baby” who has lived in Nigeria, really taken with when I first read the ed for shows scheduled in Cincinnati; Charlotte, North Car- Los Angeles Times Switzerland and more, thanks to her script was seeing how she’s quite an olina; Baltimore; Foxborough, Massachusetts, and Nash- n the trilogy-capping Netflix father’s work. even-keeled character. She doesn’t ville, Tennessee. He had also planned to play in Seattle but rom-com “The Kissing Booth “That experience made me quite want to overstep, but she also wants to declined to put tickets on sale. 3,” heroine Elle Evans (Joey adaptable and interested in other peo- assert herself and be true to herself “In July, I sincerely thought the pandemic was falling be- IKing) has a lesson to learn: pri- ple’s perspectives and stories. I want- and her feelings.” hind us,” Brooks said in a statement on Wednesday. “Now, oritize yourself in the journey to love. ed to explore all these different ave- After Rachel and Lee locked lips in watching this new wave, I realize we are still in the fight and But one character grasped that nues, all these different roads, and the the first “Kissing Booth,” Young saw I must do my part.” message early and quietly: Rachel, best way I could come up with to do her character’s importance grow. In Brooks said he is hopeful that he can resume touring be- played by Meganne Young. that was acting. If I had not been an “The Kissing Booth 3,” Rhode Island fore the end of the year and reschedule those tour dates. The 31-year-old South African ac- actor, I probably would have studied School of Design-bound Rachel ree- tress reprises the role of Rachel, a psychology because I’m always inter- valuates her future with Lee after Elle Country star Sam Hunt pleads guilty to DUI thoughtful, creative student at Los ested in why people make the choices and Noah’s relationship hits the rocks. Country singer Sam Hunt has pleaded Angeles Country Day High School they make. I think that is so key to act- “I hate saying that love is not guilty to drinking and driving in Tennes- and love interest to Elle’s best friend ing,” said Young. enough,” said Young, referencing a see. Lee Flynn (Joel Courtney) in the Young said that she believes per- line from the movie. “Because I am Hunt entered the plea Wednesday in threequel, which started streaming spective does change when navigating such a romantic. But ... as you get ol- Davidson County Circuit Court to misde- last week. different countries, cultures and prac- der and you start investigating more meanor DUI charges, the Tennessean re- While Elle remains the focus of tices. Those lived experiences made serious relationships, you have to take ported. “The Kissing Booth 3” — embarking her attentive to societal gaps, the im- in other factors. At the end of the day, He was arrested in 2019 and charged on a summer mission to finish a child- portance of nuance and perception you have to take care of yourself. If with driving under the influence and vio- Hunt hood bucket list with Lee, while decid- beyond the black-white binary. you aren’t happy and there’s too much lating open container law. An arrest war- ing whether or not to join boyfriend “Sometimes I worry that we want to strain on your relationship, for what- rant said officers found Hunt swerving between lanes and Noah (Jacob Elordi) at Harvard in the boil everything down and make it sim- ever reason, you need to make sure pulled him over. fall — Rachel’s maturity, intuitive- ple, instead of finding that complexity, that you feel safe enough to navigate it ness and decisive pursuit of self slow- trying to understand it, embrace it then make decisions based on that.” Johansson, Jost welcome baby boy ly take center stage. and work within it. When you simplify As Young navigates her career, she Scarlett Johansson is a mom to two now. The “Black Wid- While Rachel is an aspiring interior things, that’s when you start pushing says a dream of hers is to play a char- ow” star recently gave birth to a son, Cosmo, with husband designer — and the visual arts are not out other groups, especially minori- acter that seems brash, tough and Colin Jost, the “Saturday Night Live” star wrote on Insta- Young’s strong suit — she sees paral- ties,” Young said. “I love complexity. I “ugly” at first glance and “bring com- gram Wednesday. This is the first child for the couple, who lels between herself and her charac- live for that. That is why I work in this passion into that.” Her hope is to chal- were married last October. ter, notably the strength of her re- industry ... but I also understand for a lenge herself, tell “engaging and relat- People magazine first reported the birth of the baby, served nature. lot of people, it’s intimidating. I don’t able” stories, and compel audiences to which came as a shock to many since news of the pregnancy “I went to film school ... and people think we can shy away from it if we see different perspectives. came out only days earlier after Jost reportedly mentioned would always think I was in makeup really want to fix things.” In “The Kissing Booth 3,” both Elle it in a stand-up set in Connecticut. No other details were or wardrobe because I was really Her first-ever performance in front and Rachel are presented with choic- provided. quiet,” Young said recently by phone. of an audience was as a student at the es. The question is who they’re mak- It’s the first child for Jost, 39, who is known for hosting “I was like, ‘Oh, am I supposed to be Grange School in Lagos, Nigeria, ing decisions for: themselves or to “Weekend Update” on “Saturday Night Live.” Johansson, loud? Is that confidence? Is that what where she played a sugar plum fairy please the people around them. Young 36, also has a 6-year-old daughter, Rose, from a previous you need to be an actor?’ It rattled me in a Christmas performance. Fast for- hopes that audiences take a note from marriage to Romain Dauriac. for the first few years, but as I’ve got- ward to 2018 and Young received an Rachel and understand it’s not a mis- ten older and the more that I’ve email from her agent: More “Kissing take to look after yourself. Other news worked on sets, I’ve become quite em- Booth” films were to come (the first “[Rachel] really looks at what’s ■ British pop star, Ed Sheeran announced Thursday powered in my quietness. I love that was an unexpected Netflix hit), but happening around her and she checks that his upcoming studio album “=,” which is pronounced for Rachel, and I think that’s some- the future of her character was still in with herself and she makes choic- “Equals,” will release on Oct. 29. He unveiled his 14-song thing that’s really similar between unknown. es,” Young said. “They’re not easy track list, which includes his recently released single “Bad us.” When she went home to Cape Town choices, but she makes choices that Habits.” As a child, Young sought to be the for Christmas, she was met with a ho- she feels are best and will protect her. ■ The Rolling Stones are celebrating the 40th anniver- center of attention. Her love for per- liday surprise. Finding that trust in yourself — I hope sary of their album “Tattoo You” with a remastered collec- forming spurred her to seek out the “I sat down with [director Vince people take that away [from the film], tion that includes nine previously unreleased tracks. The stage, but moving from country to Marcello and producer Michele Weis- and knowing that what is meant for newly-remastered 11-track album is out on Oct. 22, includ- country shaped her understanding of ler] and they told me face to face what you will come back to you. If that ing songs “Hang Fire,” “Waiting on a Friend” and the open- the human condition. Born in Johan- was going to happen with Rachel doesn’t come back, that means that ing track, “Start Me Up.” The deluxe formats will also in- nesburg but a “Cape Town girl” at through both movies. I just was so ex- there’s something else meant for clude the albums “Lost & Found: Rarities” and the 26-track heart, Young is a self-described “ex- cited,” Young said. “Something I was you.” “Still Life: Wembley Stadium 1982.” PAGE 36 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 AMERICAN ROUNDUP

Man, 84, gets 21 years in prison for bank robbery PHOENIX — An 84- AZ year-old man who spent most of his adult life behind bars for robbing banks was sentenced Tues- day to more than 21 years in prison for carrying out an armed heist at an Arizona credit union. Authorities say Robert Krebs carried out the January 2018 holdup in Tucson about seven months after he was released from prison as he was struggling to adjust to life on the outside. Krebs, who was in a wheel- chair and had difficulty hearing during his sentencing, declined to answer a judge’s question about whether he accepted responsibility for his actions. Krebs’ attorney, Erin Carrillo, said her client committed the Tuc- son robbery to return to prison be- cause he didn’t feel like he fit into so- ciety after spending decades in pris- on. “To get out of the freedom busi- ness and go back to the penitentiary — that’s what he told me,” Carrillo said. Thousands of live sand dollars wash up on coast SEASIDE — Scores of OR live sand dollars began washing ashore on the Oregon coast Sunday, mystifying locals. CHRIS DILLMANN, VAIL (COLO.) DAILY/AP The Seaside Aquarium posted photos of the sand dollars to Face- book on Sunday, reporting that Thrills under the big top thousands washed up with the after- The Flynn Creek Circus performers dazzle the audience Saturday in Avon, Colo. The circus goes to Snowmass this weekend. noon high tides on the south end of Seaside Beach, The Oregonian/ the suspect tried to steal his car, po- THE CENSUS Grambling said its first female OregonLive reported. lice said. drum major was Velma Patricia “At this time, we do not know Police said Rybolt tried to steal a The starting price for a rare framed photograph of Susan B. Patterson, who served through what has caused this, and these personal watercraft from an unoc- $5K Anthony that is being auctioned. The 20-by-16-inch photo 1952. The school did not say when types of incidents usually have sev- cupied home but was recaptured was found in an concealed attic space in a building in Geneva, N.Y., after the she started. eral contributing factors,” the when a Lake Ozark officer jumped property was sold. The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle reported Tuesday This year’s other drum majors aquarium wrote on Facebook. into the lake and found him — still that David Whitcomb, now owner of the building, has worked with an antiques are head drum major Deante Gib- Sand dollars can only live a few shackled and cuffed — in the water. dealer to bring some 350 items that he discovered to auction. One Source son, a senior from Jeanerette, La., minutes out of the ocean, the aquar- Auctions of Canandaigua will hold the auction Sept. 18. Anthony was a leader and Sheavion Jones, a junior from of the campaign for women’s suffrage, writing the text of what became the 19th ium said. They are a species of sea Dallas. Trial continued when too Amendment when it was passed in 1920, giving women the right to vote. urchin covered in tube feet and few show for jury duty spines that they use to move and eat. Bug that could hurt In rough waters they lie flat partially DANVILLE — The trial The Wake County Sheriff’s Office tha’s Vineyard Savings Bank ATMs Christmas trees found buried in the sand, but in calmer wa- VA for a man charged in the said a deputy working off-duty at the in the summer of 2013, prosecutors ters they stand upright like wheels. death of a Virginia cab driver was rodeo on the site alerted dispatchers said. The devices allowed them to ROCKFORD — An inva- continued Monday when too few about the incident. obtain card information, including MI sive bug that could Fleeing man accused of people showed up for jury selection. Sheriff’s office spokesman Eric personal identification codes, from threaten Michigan’s Christmas tree stealing police cruiser Danville Circuit Court Judge Curry said witnesses reported customers, which were then used to industry has been discovered in the James Reynolds set a new trial date about a dozen people were seen create counterfeit ATM cards and western part of the state. LAKE OZARK — A in December for James Fultz IV, dancing and jumping on the bleach- withdraw funds from the compro- The Michigan Department of MO Missouri man is jailed who is charged with first-degree ers before they collapsed. The arena mised accounts. Agriculture and Rural Develop- after he allegedly rammed one po- murder in the death of Wendy Har- is located on a farm in Wendell. ment said Monday it had confirmed lice cruiser and stole another cruis- ris in January, news outlets report. University has just its 2nd the presence of the balsam woolly er before being arrested as he tried Thirty-five potential jurors were 2nd man pleads guilty in female drum major adelgid near Rockford in Kent to hide under a dock at the Lake of needed at 9 a.m., but only about 25 ATM skimming scam County. A homeowner noticed sev- the Ozarks, police said. showed by then. Twelve jurors and GRAMBLING — A his- eral Fraser firs in their yard were Kenneth Rybolt, 26, of Columbia, an alternate were needed for the BOSTON — A Bulgar- LA torically black public uni- declining and contacted an arborist, is facing five felony counts and one two-day trial. MA ian man has pleaded versity in Louisiana has its second who spotted the infestation and misdemeanor after the chase in “It’s a damning statement on our guilty to his role in a scheme to cre- female drum major, nearly 70 years alerted the state, the agency said. Miller and Camden counties. community,” Reynolds said. ate counterfeit ATM cards that after the first. It’s unclear how the bug reached Lake Ozark police said when offi- Fultz and the commonwealth are were then used to steal money from Candace Hawthorne, of Dallas, is Michigan or how long it’s been in the cers responded to a shoplifting call entitled to a trial by jury and 15 wit- other people’s bank accounts, feder- one of three drum majors this year state. on Saturday, the suspect rammed a nesses had set aside two days, he al prosecutors said Tuesday. for Grambling State University’s “This invasive insect is a threat to police car and drove off before hit- said. Anatoli Mitrev, 34, pleaded guilty marching band, the school said in a the nearly 1.9 billion balsam fir trees ting another vehicle and crashing in the so-called skimming scam to news release. in Michigan’s forests,” Rob Miller, the car, KRCG-TV reported. Injuries reported when conspiracy to commit access device “It’s extremely mind-blowing,” an invasive species prevention and He was apprehended and placed bench collapses at arena fraud in federal court on Monday, said Hawthorne, a senior majoring specialist for MDARD, said in a in the back of a cruiser with his an- according to a statement from the in both engineering technology and news release. “... As the third largest kles shackled and hands cuffed be- WENDELL — A bench U.S. attorney’s office in Boston. He music. “I never would have expect- Christmas tree-growing state in the hind his back but managed to drive NC collapsed at a North Car- faces 8 ½ years at sentencing sched- ed for me to make history like this.” country, Michigan produces nearly off in the cruiser, police said. olina arena that was hosting a rodeo, uled for Oct. 19. She said she had always wanted to 13.5 million fir trees each year.” A Porto Cima resident later re- leaving nearly a dozen people with Mitrev and another man installed be a drum major but had lacked the ported the cruiser had crashed and minor injuries, a sheriff’s office said. skimmers and cameras on two Mar- confidence to audition. From The Associated Press Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 37 PAGE 38 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 Eugene Sheffer Crossword Frazz Dilbert

ACROSS 56 Postpone 24 Museum- 1 Pouch 57 — Moines funding org. 4 Sound booster 58 Map lines (Abbr.) 25 Biblical boat 7 “Speed-the- 26 Mao — -tung

Pearls Before Swine Pearls Before Plow” playwright DOWN 28 Misery 12 “Ben- —” 1 Pointy 30 Doctrine 13 Happy hour 2 Emanations 31 USO audience venue 3 Thin pancake 32 Tours season 14 Livid 4 “Waterloo” group 33 Madrid Mrs. 15 Verb for you 5 Director 36 Gloomy 16 “Continental” fare Scorsese 37 Flee 6 Fourth estate 18 Knock 40 Golf great Sam 7 Brzezinski of 42 Prom duds 19 Confused

Non Sequitur MSNBC 43 To date 20 Incubator noise 8 “Bow-wow!” 44 Looks intently 22 Medit. nation 9 Goat’s cry 45 Follow orders 23 Body sci. 10 UFO pilots 46 Stretches (out) 27 Have 11 Asian holiday 48 Passing craze 29 NHL team 17 Saab model 49 Get older 31 Painter’s 21 Suggest 50 Erie Canal mule undercoat 23 Choir members 51 FDR project 34 Tent securer Answer to Previous Puzzle 35 “Did my best” Candorville 37 Punk rock offshoot 38 Plane reservation 39 CIA forerunner 41 Male deer 45 Pound fraction 47 “Born in the —” 48 Basketball ploy

Carpe Diem 52 Alphabet end 53 Tequila source 54 Mimic 55 Shoe width Beetle Bailey Bizarro Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 39 Eugene Sheffer Crossword Frazz Dilbert

ACROSS 52 Chart toppers 25 “Alley —” 1 Poorly lit 53 Asian holiday 26 Inlet 4 Con job 27 Neither here 8 Try out DOWN — there

Pearls Before Swine Pearls Before 12 GI entertainers 1 Two-way 28 Obamacare 13 — Romeo 2 Madonna’s acronym 14 Sax range “La — Bonita” 29 Chum 15 100% 3 Aspic shaper 31 Biblical giant 16 Rich soil 4 Game fish 32 Coconut fiber 17 Fuzzy image 5 Wizard’s 34 Sheep call 18 Patti LaBelle garment 35 Containers #1 single 6 Miles away for oranges 21 Fine, to NASA 7 Bats and cats, 36 Huge success 22 Exist but not gnats 37 Wear Non Sequitur 23 Recognized 8 Eating area 38 Jet speed 26 Diner order 9 Jazzy Fitzgerald measure 27 Snooze 10 Poker variety 39 Jacob’s twin 30 Black, in verse 11 Ripped 40 Tears 41 552, in old Rome 31 Auto fuel 19 Show ennui 42 Border on 32 “Cola” lead-in 20 Illustrations 43 Take a siesta 33 Hiatus 23 Beer barrel 44 Way out 34 Lad 24 Cagers’ gp. Answer to Previous Puzzle 35 Pink hue Candorville 36 Bando of baseball 37 Hindu honorific 38 Annual Coney Island event 45 Pakistan’s continent 46 Oodles 47 Present location?

Carpe Diem 48 Beanies 49 Grow weary 50 Action flick gun 51 “Be quiet!” Beetle Bailey Bizarro PAGE 40 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 OPINION

Max D. Lederer Jr., Publisher Lt. Col. Marci Hoffman, Europe commander Lt. Col. Michael Kerschbaum, Pacific commander Recommendation on booster shots is a mistake Michael Ryan, Pacific chief of staff BY WILLIAM F. PARKER booster shots should be subject to a rando- step for these companies, as they can pro- AND GOVIND PERSAD mized, controlled trial comparing three dos- duce a billion more doses than the U.S. pop- Special to The Washington Post es to two doses with power to detect signif- ulation needs by the end of the year. Should EDITORIAL he Biden administration an- icant differences in hospitalizations or we pay high prices for biyearly boosters for Terry Leonard, Editor nounced on Wednesday that it will deaths. the 190 million and counting vaccinated [email protected] start offering coronavirus vaccine With the delta variant running rampant Americans, which will require hundreds of booster shots next month, recom- through the unvaccinated population, such a millions of additional doses? Or should we Robert H. Reid, Senior Managing Editor T mending that Americans who received their trial, similar to the vaccine trials for initial build on the 100 million doses we have donat- [email protected] original doses from Pfizer or Moderna to approval, would be easy to complete. In fact, ed globally so far and pledge at least 10 mil- Sean Moores, Managing Editor for Presentation seek a booster eight months after their initial Pfizer has just such a trial ongoing, the Food lion additional doses per week to low-in- [email protected] shot. and Drug Administration should require come countries? The latter strategy would This decision is a mistake. Not only does it they complete it before amending the vac- ensure domestic supply for unvaccinated BUREAU STAFF risk depriving millions throughout the cine Emergency Use Authorization. This Americans while we await evidence that world of the vaccine, but there also is no evi- trial should be the first in an ongoing series boosters meaningfully protect healthy, fully Europe/Mideast dence that additional shots meaningfully re- of adaptive clinical trials, using the power of vaccinated Americans. Erik Slavin, Europe & Mideast Bureau Chief duce death or hospitalization from CO- randomization to determine the optimal Finally, the administration made a mis- [email protected] +49(0)631.3615.9350; DSN (314)583.9350 VID-19 for healthy Americans. Far better dosing strategy for vaccines over time. And take by letting its booster recommendations would be to wait for solid trial data on boost- these trials should examine actual outcomes become public through a series of anony- Pacific er shots. such as hospitalization — not “surrogate” mous leaks to the media. Other major vac- Aaron Kidd, Pacific Bureau Chief U.S. health officials ought to heed the endpoints such as antibody levels. cine decisions came after careful delibera- [email protected] warning from Tedros Adhanom Ghebreye- That boosting all adults would be inappro- tion by both the FDA and CDC, relying heav- +81.42.552.2511 ext. 88380; DSN (315)227.7380 sus, director general of the World Health Or- priate without compelling evidence of im- ily on rigorous analysis and advice from the ganization, that the world had fallen into a proved efficacy does not mean the CDC was Advisory Committee for Immunization Washington state of “vaccine apartheid.” High-income wrong to provide targeted booster access for Practices. Perhaps this was done as a trial Joseph Cacchioli, Washington Bureau Chief [email protected] countries have used bilateral contracts with small populations, such as organ transplant balloon to assess the public’s reaction. But (+1)(202)886-0033 vaccine manufacturers to achieve vaccina- recipients on immunosuppressive drugs. that’s not how public health should be done. tion rates as much as 50 times that of low-in- Unlike the general population, these pa- Based on the suggested eight-month in- Brian Bowers, Assistant Managing Editor, News [email protected] come countries. A campaign for boosters tients have a poor immune response to two terval for third doses, the United States will could lock in that apartheid. This profound doses and face a high risk of hospitalization need more than 120 million additional CIRCULATION global inequity would not only be a human- despite two-dose vaccination. Observational mRNA doses by the end of 2021. That’s itarian disaster, but also a significant long- data show a third dose is needed to give anti- enough doses to vaccinate the population of Mideast term risk for Americans, as scientists agree bodies to immunocompromised patients, COVID-decimated Botswana 26 times over. Robert Reismann, Mideast Circulation Manager [email protected] that accelerating global vaccination is the making access to boosters a reasonable pre- Will already-protected Americans line up to [email protected] only way to prevent the formation of deadly cautionary approach. Just as importantly, boost their antibodies while the virus rages DSN (314)583-9111 new variants. offering the more than 50 million vaccines and mutates overseas, evidence be damned? The administration points to recent re- already distributed and sitting in freezers Or will we demand that our government rec- Europe ports from the Centers for Disease Control throughout the United States to these pop- ognize that global pandemics require global Karen Lewis, Community Engagement Manager and Prevention showing that the efficacy of ulations presents little risk of global depri- solutions? Vaccinating the unvaccinated, not [email protected] [email protected] the vaccines against mild infection is wan- vation compared to purchasing millions of buffing up the antibody levels of the already +49(0)631.3615.9090; DSN (314)583.9090 ing to justify boosters. This is an important additional doses, not yet distributed to protected, is our way out of the pandemic. concern, but the same reports demonstrate states, for use as boosters in the general pop- Pacific full vaccination is still highly protective ulation. Mari Mori, [email protected] against severe COVID-19 disease. The Unit- Moderna and Pfizer are already profiting William F. Parker is an assistant professor of pulmonary and +81-3 6385.3171; DSN (315)227.7333 critical care medicine at the University of Chicago and assistant ed States should address this issue with the from their vaccines to the tune of hundreds director of the MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics. same thoughtfulness and regulatory scruti- of millions of dollars. The United States Govind Persad is an assistant professor at the University of CONTACT US Denver Sturm College of Law and Greenwall Foundation Faculty ny as initial vaccine approval. That means must now decide how to incentivize the next Scholar in Bioethics. Washington tel: (+1)202.886.0003 633 3rd St. NW, Suite 116, Washington, DC 20001-3050 The Taliban are only pretending they aren’t barbaric Reader letters [email protected] BY ELI LAKE It’s easy to see why. Mujahed’s boss, that the Treasury Department has frozen Bloomberg Opinion Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the likely in- all Afghan government assets in U.S. Additional contacts he Taliban would like the world terim president of Afghanistan, managed banks. stripes.com/contactus to know that they’re no longer the to sucker U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad into But one never knows with the Biden ad- child-bride-marrying mass mur- thinking the Taliban were interested in a ministration. After all, it is still trying to ne- OMBUDSMAN Tderers that they used to be. political settlement to share power. It’s now gotiate the lifting of sanctions and return of Ernie Gates At a press conference Tuesday, Taliban apparent that the Taliban used those nego- frozen assets with another Islamic regime, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahed said there tiations as a political weapon to demoralize in Iran, that shows as much respect for hu- The Stars and Stripes ombudsman protects the free flow of news and information, reporting any attempts by the would be no reprisals against Afghans who the Afghan military, with no intention of man rights — and as much hospitality to military or other authorities to undermine the newspaper’s worked with the U.S. military. Women ever reaching an agreement. The plan international terrorists — as the Taliban. independence. The ombudsman also responds to concerns and questions from readers, and monitors coverage for would be free to work and study, and the worked surprisingly well, as the rapid col- When Afghanistan’s rapid collapse became fairness, accuracy, timeliness and balance. The ombudsman media free to broadcast what it wished, so lapse of the Afghan army attests. apparent last week, Khalilzad dangled the welcomes comments from readers, and can be contacted by email at [email protected], or by phone at long as both stayed “within our cultural So now the Taliban are hoping to fool prospect of U.S. aid for a Taliban-led gov- 202.886.0003. frameworks.” How enlightened. America twice. Until this weekend, the Bi- ernment if it spared the U.S. Embassy in its These promises are discredited by den administration had committed to at rout of Kabul. Stars and Stripes (USPS 0417900) is published week- days (except Dec. 25 and Jan. 1) for 50 cents Monday events on the ground. Those Afghans hang- least $300 million in reconstruction assist- Biden would be wise to reject proposals through Thursday and for $1 on Friday by Pacific Stars and ing from a U.S. military jet taking off from ance after the U.S. withdrawal to “demon- that try to leverage U.S. assistance to re- Stripes, Unit 45002, APO AP 96301-5002. Periodicals postage paid at San Francisco, CA, Postmaster: Send Kabul clearly do not take the Taliban at strate our enduring support for the Afghan form the Taliban. They are irredeemable. address changes to Pacific Stars and Stripes, Unit 45002, their word. Nor do the women who Taliban people.” And the Afghan people certainly It was bad enough that Biden abandoned APO AP 96301-5002. This newspaper is authorized by the Department of Defense for members of the military services gunmen escorted from their jobs at a Kan- need it. According to a 2019 World Bank Afghanistan despite the warnings of his overseas. However, the contents of Stars and Stripes are dahar bank and ordered not to return. Nor study, 75% of the Afghan government bud- military leaders. Worse still was how the unofficial, and are not to be considered as the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government. As a DOD newspa- do the journalists who work at a radio sta- get is funded by international donors, with administration failed to plan for the rescue per, Stars and Stripes may be distributed through official channels and use appropriated funds for distribution to tion in Kabul who saw their station manag- the U.S. the largest by far. of American civilians and Afghan allies be- remote locations where overseas DOD personnel are located. er murdered earlier this month by Taliban The good news is that the Biden adminis- fore the military withdrawal. To subsidize The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or gunmen. tration has begun to set out conditions for the barbaric regime that has now taken Stars and Stripes of the products or services advertised. But Mujahed is not trying to convince Af- recognizing the Taliban. Secretary of State over would be a final, ignominious blow to Products or services advertised shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, ghans about the intentions of the Taliban. Antony Blinken on Sunday told CNN that America’s honor. religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical He is hoping his make-believe will per- the U.S. would recognize and work with a handicap, political affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. suade President Joe Biden and his admin- Taliban emirate in Afghanistan if it re- Bloomberg Opinion columnist Eli Lake covers national security © Stars and Stripes 2021 istration to keep subsidizing the Afghan spected the rights of its citizens and didn’t and foreign policy. This column does not necessarily reflect the government these jihadis just overthrew. harbor terrorists. More promising is news opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. stripes.com Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 41 SCOREBOARD/GOLF

PRO SOCCER PRO BASKETBALL PRO FOOTBALL MLS WNBA NFL

EASTERN CONFERENCE EASTERN CONFERENCE Thursday’s game WLTPts GF GA WLPct GB New England at Philadelphia Friday’s games New England 14 3 4 46 40 25 Connecticut 16 6 .727 — Cincinnati at Washington Nashville 7 2 11 32 32 20 Chicago 11 11 .500 5 Kansas City at Arizona NYCFC 9 6 4 31 34 19 New York 11 12 .478 5½ Saturday’s games Philadelphia 8 5 7 31 26 19 Washington 8 12 .400 7 Buffalo at Chicago Orlando City 8 4 7 31 29 24 Atlanta 6 15 .286 9½ N.Y. Jets at Green Bay D.C. United 8 9 3 27 31 29 Indiana 4 18 .182 12 Atlanta at Miami CF Montréal 7 7 6 27 26 25 Baltimore at Carolina WESTERN CONFERENCE Detroit at Pittsburgh Columbus 6 8 6 24 21 25 Tennessee at Tampa Bay Atlanta 5 6 9 24 23 25 WLPct GB Houston at Dallas Indianapolis at Minnesota New York 6 9 4 22 23 24 Las Vegas 17 6 .739 — Denver at Seattle Chicago 5 10 5 20 23 32 Seattle 16 7 .696 1 Las Vegas at L.A. Rams Inter Miami CF 5 9 4 19 18 30 Minnesota 13 8 .619 3 Sunday’s games Cincinnati 3 7 8 17 18 30 Phoenix 11 10 .524 5 N.Y. Giants at Cleveland San Francisco at L.A. Chargers Toronto FC 3 11 6 15 24 41 Dallas 10 13 .435 7 Monday’s game WESTERN CONFERENCE Los Angeles 8 13 .381 8 /AP Jacksonville at New Orleans CHARLES KRUPA WLTPts GF GA Tuesday’s games Friday, Aug. 27 Dustin Johnson holds the trophy after winning the Northern Trust last Seattle 11 3 6 39 33 16 Connecticut 72, Minnesota 60 Dallas 80, Chicago 76 Indianapolis at Detroit year at TPC Boston in Norton, Mass. Johnson opens the tournament Sporting KC 11 4 5 38 36 21 Las Vegas 93, Washington 83 Philadelphia at N.Y. Jets this year at No. 17 in FedEx Cup points standings. Phoenix 84, Indiana 80 Pittsburgh at Carolina LA Galaxy 11 7 2 35 31 30 Minnesota at Kansas City Colorado 10 4 4 34 27 18 Los Angeles 85, Atlanta 80, OT Saturday, Aug. 28 Real Salt Lake 7 6 6 27 29 21 Wednesday’s game New York 83, Seattle 79 Green Bay at Buffalo Minnesota 7 6 6 27 22 23 Baltimore at Washington Portland 7 9 3 24 26 36 Thursday’s games Chicago at Tennessee LAFC 6 8 5 23 24 26 Minnesota at Connecticut Arizona at New Orleans Washington at Phoenix Tampa Bay at Houston Johnson attempting San Jose 5 7 8 23 22 28 Atlanta at Los Angeles L.A. Rams at Denver L.A. Chargers at Seattle FC Dallas 5 9 6 21 23 28 Friday’s games Vancouver 4 7 8 20 21 29 Sunday, Aug. 29 Seattle at New York Houston 3 8 9 18 21 30 Indiana at Dallas Jacksonville at Dallas Austin FC 4 11 4 16 14 23 Las Vegas at San Francisco Saturday’s games Miami at Cincinnati to regain top form Note: Three points for victory, one point Phoenix at Atlanta New England at N.Y. Giants for tie. Minnesota at Chicago Cleveland at Atlanta Wednesday’s games DEALS BY DOUG FERGUSON New England 3, D.C. United 2 Associated Press Atlanta 1, Toronto FC 0 Reed withdraws CF Montréal 0, Cincinnati 0, tie Wednesday’s transactions PHILADELPHIA 76ERS — Waived G Ray- JERSEY CITY, N.J. — A short Philadelphia 1, New York City FC 0 jon Tucker. Miami 3, Chicago 2 BASEBALL Women’s National Basketball memory is one of the greatest as- with ankle injury New York 1, Columbus 0 Major League Baseball Association Orlando City 1, Nashville 1, tie American League SEATTLE STORM — Signed F Cierra Bur- sets of Dustin Johnson consider- JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Pa- Portland 1, Sporting Kansas City 1, tie BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Claimed RHP dick to a rest of season contract and re- ing all the cruel circumstances trick Reed withdrew from Seattle 1, FC Dallas 0 Zack Burdi off waivers from the Chicago leased her from her 7-day contract. Vancouver 2, Austin FC 1 White Sox and optioned him to Norfolk WASHINGTON MYSTICS — Signed C he has endured on the golf course The Northern Trust on Real Salt Lake 2, Houston 1 (Triple- A East). Designated LHP Ryan Megan Gustafson and G Shatori Walker- Friday’s game Hartman for assignment. Kimbrough to a ROS contract and released over the years. Thursday with an ankle inju- San Jose at LA Galaxy BOSTON RED SOX — Optioned RHP Tan- them from their 7-day contracts. That’s not to suggest he forgets ry, missing the first of two ner Houck to Worcester (Triple-A East). FOOTBALL Saturday’s games DETROIT TIGERS — Sent LF Akil Baddoo National Football League everything. events remaining before the Sporting Kansas City at Minnesota and CF Derek Hill to Toledo (Triple-A East) ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed LB Reg- Seattle at Columbus on rehab assignments. Reinstated Isaac gie Walker. Johnson recalled with great end of Ryder Cup qualifying. Chicago at Orlando City Paredes from th 10-day IL and optioned ATLANTA FALCONS — Re-signed DL Eli detail his FedEx Cup playoffs de- The PGA Tour did not re- CF Montréal at Philadelphia him to Toledo. Ankou. Atlanta at D.C. United LOS ANGELES ANGELS — Recalled RHPs CAROLINA PANTHERS — Signed DT Wal- but in 2008. The format was dif- ceive details on the nature of Cincinnati at New England Aaron Slegers and Andrew Wantz from ter Palmore. Placed OT Matt Kaskey, DT New York City FC at New York Salt Lake (Triple-A West). Optioned RHP Mike Panasiuk and LB Nate Hall on the in- ferent then, with 144 players the injury. Toronto FC at Miami James Hoyt to Salt Lake. Placed LHP Pa- jured reserve list. qualifying for the first event and Reed is No. 22 in the FedEx FC Dallas at Houston trick Sandoval on the 10-day IL, retroac- CHICAGO BEARS — Placed CB Michael Portland at Austin FC tive to Aug. 15. Joseph and LB Ledarius Mack on the in- the field whittled to 120 for the Cup and already assured of Real Salt Lake at Colorado MINNESOTA TWINS — Recalled LHP Le- jured reserve list. Los Angeles FC at Vancouver wis Thorpe from St. Paul (Triple-A East). DALLAS COWBOYS— Placed LB Anthony next round. Johnson was No. 117 being in the field next week Designated RHP Nick Vincent for release Hines III on the injured reserve list. and feeling a rare sense of urgen- outside Baltimore. But with NWSL or assignment. DENVER BRONCOS — Placed RB LeVante NEW YORK YANKEES — Optioned RHP Bellamy and DT Deyon Sizer on the injured cy. the points tripled in value for  W L Tts P GF GA Luis Gil, OF Jonathan Davis and RHP Nick reserve list. Nelson to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (Tri- DETROIT LIONS — Signed OLB Rashod “I actually remember on the the postseason, reaching the Portland 9 3 2 29 21 8 ple-A East). Reinstated OF Trey Amburgey Berry and QB Jordan Ta’amu. Released LS 36th hole, I had about a 4-footer Tour Championship be- North Carolina 7 4 3 24 18 9 from his rehab assignment and the 10-day Don Muhlbach. injured list then optioned him to Scranton/ GREEN BAY PACKERS — Signed QB Jake to make the cut on the number, comes a little more difficult. Gotham FC 5 2 6 21 14 9 Wilkes-Barre. Reinstated INF Anthony Riz- Dolegala. Released CB Stanford Samuels Orlando 5 4 6 21 18 17 zo from the COVID-19 IL. Reinstated LHP III. Placed TE Isaac Nauta and WR DeAndre which would have gotten me into Of more immediate con- Chicago 6 7 3 21 16 22 Aroldis Chapman from the 10-day IL. Thompkins on the injured reserve list. OAKLAND ATHLETICS — Placed RHP HOUSTON TEXANS — Released OT Ro- the next week. And I horseshoed cern is the Ryder Cup. Washington 5 5 4 19 17 17 Chris Bassitt on the 10-day IL. Selected the derick Johnson. it, and I missed the cut,” he said The top six automatically Reign FC 6 7 1 19 17 15 contract of RHP Paul Blackburn from Las INDIANAPOLIS COLTS — Placed CB Nick Houston 5 6 3 18 17 20 Vegas (Triple-A West). Nelson and WR Quartney Davis on the in- Wednesday. “So I had three qualify after the BMW TAMPA BAY RAYS— Activated LHP Ryan jured reserve list. Louisville 4 6 4 16 12 20 Yarbrough from the 10-day IL. Designated JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS — Placed WR weeks off.” Championship next week. Kansas City 1 9 4 7 7 20 RHP Chris Ellis for assignment. Sent RHPS Josh Imatorbhebhe on the injured reserve The pressure remained, for the Reed is No. 9 in the U.S. Note: Three points for victory, one point J.P. Feyereisen and Ryan Thompson to list. for tie. Durham (Triple-A East) on rehab assign- KANSAS CITY CHIEFS — Placed TE Evan fall in 2008 was a time for players standings. Six more players ments. Baylis and WR Antonio Callaway on the in- Wednesday’s game TORONTO BLUE JAYS — Reinstated LHP jured reserve list. to finish in the top 125 on the will be captain's picks after Chicago 1, Louisville 1, tie Tim Mayza from the 10-day IL. Selected MIAMI DOLPHINS — Placed LB Sam money list to keep their PGA the Tour Championship. Saturday’s games the contract of INF Kevin Smith from Buffa- Eguavoen on the reserve/COVID-19 list. lo (Triple-A East) and has activated him for Placed CB Jaytlin Askew on the injured re- Tour cards. Johnson was No. 128 Kansas City at North Carolina today’s game. Placed RHP Alek Manoah on serve list. Gotham FC at Reign FC the bereavement list. Designated RHP Ra- NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Placed TE when he won at Turning Stone for From the Associated Press fael Dolis for assignment. Troy Fumagalli on the reserve injured list. the first of what now is 24 victo- TENNIS National League NEW ORLEANS SAINTS — Signed CB CHICAGO CUBS — Selected the contract Brian Mills and Natrell Jamerson, WR Ke- ries on the PGA Tour. Chicago 125 of RHP Adrian Sampson from Iowa (Tri- vin White, OTs Jordan Mills Caleb Bene- ple-A East). Designated OF Johneshwy noch. Waived CB Adonis Alexander and OT Johnson was not where he ex- for next week outside Baltimore, Wednesday Fargas for assignment. Michael Brown due to injury and also WR pected to be when the FedEx Cup and then the top 30 advance to the At XS Tennis Village COLORADO ROCKIES — Reinstated RHP Jake Lampman and DB Lawrence Woods. Chicago Chi Chi González from the COVID-19 IL. NEW YORK GIANTS — Placed CB Jarren playoffs started Thursday with Tour Championship. Purse: $115,000 Placed OF Yonathan Daza on the 10-day IL. Williams on the injured reserve list. Surface: Hardcourt outdoor Transferred INF/OF Chris Owings to the NEW YORK JETS— Placed RB Austin Wal- The Northern Trust at Liberty Johnson only needs to look at Women’s Singles 60-day IL. Sent RHP Peter Lambert to Spo- ter and DT Michael Dwumfour on the in- Round of 16 kane (High-A West) on a rehab assign- jured reserve list. National. He didn’t feel a great last year to realize how quickly it Claire Liu, United States, def. Anna Kalin- ment. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Placed OT sense of urgency, either. can change. He was at No. 15 in skaya, Russia, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. NEW YORK METS — Recalled C Chance Casey Tucker, C Luke Juriga and RB Ker- Storm Sanders, Australia, def. Varvara Sisco Syracuse (Triple-A East). Optioned ryon Johnson on the injured reserve list. He is No. 17 in the FedEx Cup, the FedEx Cup a year ago when Gracheva (8), Russia, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4. RHP Yennsy Díaz Syracuse. TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Placed C Ann Li (3), United States, def. Oceane Do- ST. LOUIS CARDINALS — Recalled RHP Donell Stanley on the injured reserve list. a product of not winning on the the switch flipped on in a big way. din, France, 6-3, 6-1. Junior Fernandez from Memphis (Triple-A Waived DB Raven Greene and OT Brandon PGA Tour since the Masters last He won The Northern Trust by Women’s Doubles East). Placed RHP Justin Miller on the 10- Walton. Round of 16 day IL. TENNESSEE TITANS — Signed LB Jamal November — that counts toward 11 shots at the TPC Boston. He Aldila Sutjiadi and Beatrice Gumulya, In- SAN DIEGO PADRES — Placed LHP Matt Carter. donesia, def. Samantha Murray Sharan, Strahm on the 10-day IL. Selected the con- SOCCER this season — and rarely being in lost in a playoff at the BMW Britain, and Kimberley Zimmermann, Bel- tract of RHP Jake Arrieta from El Paso (Tri- Major League Soccer contention. Championship when Jon Rahm gium, 6-3, 6-0. ple-A West). Announced Edwin Rodriguez MLS — Named Noah Beck and Cobi Jones Ankita Raina, India, and Ekaterine Gor- will be stepping down from his position as (MLS) and Juanpa Zurita and Jorge Cam- “Obviously, need a good couple made a 65-foot birdie putt at godze, Georgia, def. Renata Voracova, manager of El Paso Chihuahuas, effective pos (Liga MX), as guest coaches for the Czech Republic, and Julia Wachaczyk (2), immediately. Pitching coach Eric Junge 2021 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge. of weeks here,” he said. Olympia Fields. And with the Germany, 6-2, 2-6, 10-8. will serve as manager for the for the re- MLS INDEPENDENT REVIEW PANEL— Re- The 124-man field at Liberty staggered start at East Lake — as Alison van Uytvanck and Greet Minnen, mainder of the 2021 season. scinded the one-match suspension and Belgium, def. Lesley Pattinama Kerkhove, BASKETBALL accompanying fine for the red card issued National — Louis Oosthuizen at the No. 1 seed, Johnson started at Netherlands, and Kaitlyn Christian (1), National Basketball Association to Austin FC’s D Julio Cascante in the United States, 6-4, 6-4. CHICAGO BULLS — Signed G Ayo Dosun- match against Real Salt Lake on Aug. 14. No. 8 is sitting out to rest a sore 10-under par — he finally won the Kristina Mladenovic and Clara Burel, mu and C Marco Simonovic. COLLEGE neck — will be reduced to the top FedEx Cup and the $15 million France, def. Harriet Dart, Britain, and Car- NEW ORLEANS PELICANS — Signed F MILWAUKEE — Named Austin Hansen as oline Dolehide (3), United States, 6-1, 6-2. Daulton Hommes to a two-way contract. men’s basketball assistant coach. 70 in the FedEx Cup who qualify bonus prize. PAGE 42 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 COLLEGE FOOTBALL Nebraska confirms NCAA investigation

Associated Press their investigation,” Alberts said. LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska an- “We will continue to do whatever nounced Wednesday that the the NCAA has asked us to do. Our NCAA is looking into its football coaches, including coach Frost, program amid allegations Corn- have done a great job and have been huskers staff improperly used anal- very accessible in working with the ysts and consultants with the NCAA as we’ve worked through knowledge of these allegations.” coach Scott Frost Alberts said he couldn’t com- and even moved ment further because of the ongo- workouts off ing investigation. campus last year The report comes less than two when such activ- weeks before the Huskers open ities were banned Frost’s fourth season with a game at during the pan- Illinois. Frost, who quarterbacked demic. the Huskers to the 1997 national Alberts Nebraska Ath- championship, returned to his alma letic Director Trev Alberts con- mater in his home state after being firmed the investigation first re- named national coach of the year ported by The Action Network for leading Central Florida to a 13-0 while Frost said any workouts were record in 2017. approved by his superiors. Frost has struggled at Nebraska, “Everything we did through CO- going 12-20 in his first three years JOHN RABY/AP VID was in the best interest and and never finishing higher than Marshall football player Will Ulmer sings and plays guitar on July 18 in Huntington, W.Va. Ulmer and other health of our players in mind and fifth in the Big Ten West. The pro- athletes are now able to show off their creative, artistic sides and earn money while they’re at it. everything we did was approved by gram has had four straight losing athletic department administration seasons, its most in a row since the and campus administration,” Frost late 1950s. said after practice. Frost is under contract through Citing unidentified sources, The 2026, and his current buyout is $20 Action Network report said Ne- million. Creativity on display braska has “significant video foot- The NCAA investigation in- age” confirming practice violations cludes Nebraska’s impermissible occurred in the presence of Frost use of experts running special College players cashing in on artistic talents and other assistants. teams drills. Analysts are not Alberts said the investigation among the 10 full-time on-field as- BY JOHN RABY certain point in his life. He also started before his hiring was an- sistants and are not allowed to Associated Press runs a separate nonprofit group to nounced July 14 and that he found speak with players. HUNTINGTON, W.Va. promote social justice and com- out about it after he started. Ayear ago, the NCAA disallowed ill Ulmer doesn’t munity conflict resolution. “We thought it was important the organized workouts because of the have to hide any- “My art, it is me,” Kazadi said. two of us come out and validate pandemic. According to the report, more. “Hopefully when people see it, what you all have read on the inter- Nebraska allegedly relocated its W The Marshall of- they kind of see me. They kind of net and the reports that are out strength workouts to an undis- fensive lineman, all 6-foot-4 and see what I’m thinking, how I’m there nationally,” Alberts said. closed off-campus location to avoid 300 pounds of him, unleashed a feeling. So I feel like a lot of what I The NCAA has interviewed detection at the direction of NU’s year’s worth of energy in his first don’t say is communicated Frost, current and former staff strength and conditioning staff. on-stage performance since the through my art.” members, administrators and foot- Frost and former Nebraska ath- start of the pandemic, playing gui- Before the NCAA change earlier ball players, and Frost has hired an letic director Bill Moos had been tar and belting out songs in his this summer, Kazadi wasn’t al- attorney. The alleged violations oc- vocal in wanting to play in 2020 af- Kentucky baritone for a modest lowed to connect his face to his curred in the last 12 months. ter the Big Ten initially canceled its crowd outside a Huntington ice LM OTERO/AP work. A Texas law that debuted “We want you to know we have season. The Big Ten reversed cream store. SMU defensive back Ra­Sun last month letting students profit complied 100% with the NCAA, course and set up an eight-game His keychain fastened to a belt Kazadi is selling his paintings. off their name, image or likeness been very collaborative in our ap- conference-only schedule starting loop and a can of smokeless tobac- “has made a huge change in my proach with them in terms of all of in late October. co bulging from a back pocket, Ul- braska volleyball player Lexi Sun, life,” in part through art sales off mer spent an hour singing country it has meant helping design sports his website. favorites along with one he wrote apparel. For SMU defensive back Sun wanted her deal with volley- before finishing up with his spin on Ra-Sun Kazadi, it means he can ball apparel company Ren Athlet- a West Virginia favorite, John sell his art. ics to allow her personality and Denver’s “Take Me Home, Coun- “College athletes for the longest style to shine through in the launch try Roads.” time haven’t really had a lot of op- of her clothing line — a black This time, he used his real name, portunities to make money,” Ul- sweatshirt with her name and a too. mer said. “I think this is a great one golden outline of the sun’s rays. The NCAA’s decision to allow for me. But it’s not really about the “They gave me like an open slate athletes to be paid for their fame money.” to create whatever I wanted and I and celebrity has led to scores of Like Ulmer, Kazadi sees his was just super excited about that deals big and small from coast to craft as an extension of himself. freedom and being able to take ad- coast since July 1. Sponsorships His works are a wide-ranging as- vantage of that,” Sun said. and endorsements are the most sortment that includes paintings of It quickly sold out. Company common, but there has been an- athletes, civil rights leaders, Egyp- spokeswoman Natalie Hagglund other welcome wrinkle: Ulmer tian Queen Nefertiti and the late said the Sunny Crew shirt was the and other athletes are now able to rapper Tupac Shakur. Among his biggest promotion in the compa- show off their creative, artistic digital works is Emmy-winning ny’s nearly 10 years in business sides and earn some money while actress and singer Zendaya. and that additional products with WILL NEWTON /AP they’re at it. A junior, Kazadi, who goes by Sun’s name are under considera- Head coach Scott Frost and the Nebraska football program are being For Ulmer, it means being able Ra, has been painting only since tion. investigated by the NCAA for improperly using analysts and to play his music at gigs without high school. Some works are light- consultants and moving workouts off campus last season when such masking his identity under the hearted and fun. Some were done AP sports writer Hank Kurz in Richmond, Va., activities were banned during the pandemic. pseudonym “Lucky Bill.” For Ne- as stress relief. Others reflect a contributed to this report. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 43 HOCKEY/LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES Women’s hockey championship set to finally face off

Associated Press games Wednesday. CALGARY, Alberta — The puck “We’re getting used to, on the drops Friday on a women’s world team, just adapting to whatever hockey championship more than comes at us,” Canadian forward two years after the last one. Brianne Jenner said. “When we Who’s counting? American for- heard we were going to have a ward Kendall Coyne Schofield is, quarantine and we were going to for one. have this type of situation for the “The pinnacle of women’s hock- world championships, I think we ey hasn’t been showcased in 859 were just taking it in stride. days,” Schofield told The Cana- “I know it sounds like that coo- dian Press. “That’s why it’s impor- kie-cutter answer, but we’re hon- tant that we’re here.” estly just so excited to compete.” Ten countries will compete for a The 2019 women’s champion- world title in Calgary with the 2022 ship in Finland now feels long ago Winter Olympics in Beijing less for veteran players. GENE J. PUSKAR/AP than six months away. The pan- “It feels like a lifetime ago,” Jen- River Ridge, La., takes a victory lap around the field at Lamade Stadium after winning the Little League demic forced the cancellation of ner said. “Anything pre-pandemic World Series Championship game against Curacao in South Williamsport, Pa., in 2019. the event that had been scheduled does feel like a different world, a to be held in Nova Scotia in 2020 different reality.” and then earlier this year after a The United States, Finland, Can- postponement. ada, Russia and Switzerland com- The men’s championship in Lat- prise Pool A in Calgary. The Czech LLWS returns, but without via, under-20 championship in Ed- Republic, Japan, Germany and monton and under-18 champion- promoted Hungary and Denmark ship in Texas were completed dur- are in Pool B. ing the 2020-21 hockey season, but The five Pool A countries as well fans, international teams the women’s U18 championship in as Japan and host China have Sweden was also canceled, creat- berths in Beijing’s Olympic field. ing an international hockey gen- The three remaining slots will be BY ANDREW DESTIN der gap that Hockey Canada was filled through November qualify- Associated Press “I think Little League is doing the highly interested in closing. ing tournaments. The Little League World Series Whether any fans will be able to So while medals and world rank- is back. There won’t be interna- right thing and everything they can attend the championship in Cal- ings are at stake in Calgary, a tional teams or 22,000 fans in the gary wasn’t immediately known. world championship at a strange stands when the championship do to make it as good of an No tickets have been sold, but “all time in the calendar provides a key rolls around, but the tournament parties are still working with the benchmark for teams that had lit- in South Williamsport, Pa., is set experience as possible.” health authorities to determine if tle international competition over to start Thursday. spectators will be in attendance,” a the last two years. The coronavirus forced the can- Ben Ludwig Hockey Canada spokesperson “It’s extremely important not cellation of the tournament in Manager of Oaks, Pa. Little League team said. just for the fans of women’s hockey 2020, and this year, the delta vari- Nine countries arrived last week to be able to see us on TV, to be able ant surge resulted in Little League of COVID-19 and the international equipped for elite competition. in Canada and joined the host team to see competition, but in terms of tournaments for several older age travel restrictions the pandemic “Based on what we just went in a five-day hotel quarantine. The that preparation for Beijing, every groups being scrapped. But what brought about. Typically, eight through, it seems like ‘all right, teams began skating Monday and team needs some competitive most fans understand as the Little teams from different geographic this is going to be nothing out of all 10 countries played exhibition games,” Jenner said. League World Series, featuring regions represent the United the ordinary,’ ” Ludwig said. “It’s 10- to 12-year-old players, will States, with the rest of the world going to be something that our take place over the next week and broken into another eight regions. kids are ready for, and they’re go- a half, with the championship set This year, each U.S. region’s ing to step up to the challenge.” for Lamade Stadium on Aug. 29. champion and runner-up moved Other teams, like Florida’s “It won’t be the same as what on, instead of just the champ. Martin County North Little they’ve seen on TV and from Though manager Ben Ludwig’s League, took advantage of the ex- years past, but I told them, ‘I don’t Upper Providence Little League panded U.S. bracket. Manager care if there’s 10,000 people or 10, team, northwest of Philadelphia, Mark Rodgers’ team finished run- you shouldn’t have any problem won the Mid-Atlantic region out- ner-up to Tennessee’s Nolensville getting up to play here,’ ” said right, he feels good about letting Little League. Dustin Rader, manager of Ne- the so-called B teams participate. For Rodgers’ team, preparing braska’s Hastings Little League “I think Little League is doing for the tournament while adher- team, the top club in the Midwest the right thing and everything ing to COVID-19 guidelines was region. they can do to make it as good of no easy chore. “I think they’re just really excit- an experience as possible,” Lud- “We practiced on three differ- ed for the opportunity.” wig said. “A 16-team tournament ent fields. We did nothing together Though there won’t be fans is more robust, so I think it’s great as a team, except a little bit of in- packing the hill at Lamade Stadi- what they’ve done here to expand field-outfield. We kept everybody um, those close to the players can it out, given the circumstances.” apart because where we live, CO- still see them in action. Each team Ludwig and company are well- VID was all around us,” Rodgers will receive 250 game passes to prepared for adverse situations. said. “We were all living the hor- distribute to friends, families and His team lost its second game of ror stories.” community members. the Pennsylvania state tourna- Despite the ongoing pandemic, Instead of splitting 16 teams in- ment, meaning it had to win five Little League spokesman Kevin MICHAEL DWYER/AP to U.S. and international brackets, games in five days to advance to Fountain said many of its leagues Canada’s Geneviève Lacasse, left, blocks a shot by the United States’ Little League’s championship the Mid-Atlantic tournament. returned to the field this year, Kendall Coyne Schofield during the third period of a rivalry series tournament will feature strictly His group succeeded, leading though 2021 participation has not game on Dec. 14, 2019 in Hartford, Conn. American squads in 2021 because Ludwig to believe they’re been totaled. PAGE 44 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 MLB

Bauer to Scoreboard American League invoke the East Division WLPct GB Tampa Bay 74 47 .612 _ Fifth in New York 69 52 .570 5 Boston 69 54 .561 6 Toronto 63 56 .529 10 Baltimore 38 81 .319 35 hearing Central Division

BY ANDREW DALTON WLPct GB Associated Press Chicago 71 50 .587 _ Cleveland 58 61 .487 12 LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Detroit 58 64 .475 13½ Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer in- Minnesota 54 67 .446 17 tends to invoke his Fifth Amend- Kansas City 52 67 .437 18 ment right against self-incrimina- West Division tion and will answer no questions WLPct GB in the case of a woman seeking a Houston 70 50 .583 _ five-year restraining order Oakland 68 53 .562 2½ against him, his attorney said in Seattle 65 56 .537 5½ Los Angeles 61 61 .500 10 court Wednesday. Texas 42 78 .350 28 Bauer’s lawyer Shawn Holley National League told a judge the only questions he East Division will answer are “his name and WLPct GB what he does for a living,” and cit- CHARLES REX ARBOGAST/AP ed a pending criminal investiga- Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Chris Bassitt is taken off the field after getting hit in the head from a ballAtlanta 65 56 .537 _ Philadelphia 61 59 .508 3½ tion by police in Pasadena, Calif. hit by the Chicago White Sox’s Brian Goodwin during a game Tuesday in Chicago. New York 60 60 .500 4½ The legal team seeking the or- Washington 52 68 .433 12½ der for a woman who says Bauer Miami 51 70 .421 14 choked her into unconsciousness Central Division and punched her in two sexual en- WLPct GB counters said that Bauer was the Bassitt recuperating after Milwaukee 74 47 .612 _ last remaining witness they in- Cincinnati 65 57 .533 9½ tended to call at the hearing. St. Louis 61 58 .513 12 Chicago 54 69 .439 21 Holley asked Los Angeles Supe- Pittsburgh 42 79 .347 32 rior Court Judge Dianna Gould- West Division Saltman to allow Bauer to avoid being hit in head by liner WLPct GB taking the stand entirely, as de- San Francisco 78 43 .645 _ fendants in criminal cases do. Athletics pitcher out of hospital with a cheek tripod fracture but no eye damage Los Angeles 75 46 .620 3 Normally in civil matters, a wit- San Diego 67 56 .545 12 ness would invoke the Fifth BY JANIE MCCAULEY said. Colorado 55 66 .455 23 Amendment on a question-by- Associated Press “We’re all Bassitt is still sore and he hadn’t Arizona 40 81 .331 38 Wednesday’s games question basis. OAKLAND, Calif. — Oakland yet resumed eating solid foods but Minnesota 8, Cleveland 7, 11 innings Gould-Saltman adjourned the Athletics ace Chris Bassitt has a incredibly was up and walking in his room, ac- Washington 8, Toronto 5 L.A. Angels 3, Detroit 1 hearing for the day, saying she broken bone in his cheek that will cording to Paparesta. Tampa Bay 8, Baltimore 4 N.Y. Yankees 5, Boston 2 would read legal precedents pro- need surgery to repair but he sus- grateful that If all goes well during a consulta- Kansas City 3, Houston 2 vided by Holley and issue a deci- tained no eye damage after being tion Monday with plastic surgeon Seattle 3, Texas 1 Chicago White Sox 3, Oakland 2 sion Thursday morning. The struck on the side of the head by a Chris is doing as Dr. Peter Revenaugh, Bassitt’s Chicago Cubs 7, Cincinnati 1 Colorado 7, San Diego 5 judge may also issue her decision line drive. procedure could be done as early N.Y. Mets 6, San Francisco 2, 12 innings Atlanta 11, Miami 9 on the domestic violence restrain- Bassitt was taken to the hospital well as he is as Tuesday. It also hasn’t been de- Milwaukee 6, St. Louis 4, 10 innings ing order on Thursday, after hear- after getting hit by a ball from termined how long he might re- Arizona 4, Philadelphia 2 L.A. Dodgers 9, Pittsburgh 0 ing final arguments from the two Brian Goodwin’s bat in the second today.” main in Chicago immediately after Thursday’s games sides. inning of a 9-0 loss to the Chicago surgery. Baltimore at Tampa Bay David Forst L.A. Angels at Detroit Bauer, who is fighting the order White Sox on Tuesday night. The “The doc said that once he has Seattle at Texas Houston at Kansas City and has said through representa- veteran right-hander has shown Oakland Athletics GM the surgery done, we’ll kind of see Oakland at Chicago White Sox tives that everything that hap- no signs of a concussion and a scan how he’s doing after about a week Minnesota at N.Y. Yankees Philadelphia at Arizona pened between him and the 27- of his brain was normal, though thinking about everything that the to 10 days and start getting him into Miami at Cincinnati Milwaukee at St. Louis year-old San Diego woman was Bassitt can’t recall everything that team went through last night. some physical activity and kind of N.Y. Mets at L.A. Dodgers consensual, has attended all three happened during the ordeal. Chris had incredible care from the see how his body responds to that Friday’s games Kansas City (Keller 7-12) at Chicago days of the hearing and had been A’s athletic trainer Nick Papar- second Nick reached him on the and how he’s feeling,” Paparesta Cubs (Davies 6-9) expected to take the stand. esta said the pitcher is in “really mound to everybody at the stadi- said. “We’re looking kind of one Atlanta (Fried 10-7) at Baltimore (Akin 0-7) Minnesota (Barnes 0-2) at N.Y. Yankees good spirits, doing well” a day lat- um and ambulance and the hospi- week at a time at this point in time (Cortes Jr. 1-1) Detroit (Alexander 2-2) at Toronto (Ray 9-5) er, even with his right eye still tal, we’re very grateful for the care after the surgery’s done. The other Chicago White Sox (Giolito 9-9) at Tam- pa Bay (Wacha 2-4) swollen shut. that he got. But also just very aware thing we need to be conscientious L.A. Angels (Barria 2-1) at Cleveland (TBD) Bassitt tweeted his appreciation that Chris and everyone else has of is that the surgery goes as Texas (Dunning 5-7) at Boston (Sale 1-0) Seattle (Kikuchi 7-6) at Houston Wednesday for the support he has been through something pretty planned and it is the surgery that (McCullers Jr. 9-4) San Francisco (Wood 10-3) at Oakland received. traumatic here.” we anticipate. Once you get in (Kaprielian 6-4) Miami (Hernandez 0-0) at Cincinnati (Gray 4-6) “From the bottom of my heart, Forst said it’s too soon to guess there, things could change.” Washington (TBD) at Milwaukee (An- I’d like to thank the @whitesox and whether Bassitt will pitch again Bassitt went down on the mound derson 4-6) Pittsburgh (Keller 3-10) at St. Louis (Mi- @Athletics staff, front offices, and this season or how long it could right after he was hit, holding his kolas 0-0) Arizona (Gilbert 1-1) at Colorado (Gom- owners. The support my family take him to recover. Six weeks is a head, and his teammates quickly ber 9-7) N.Y. Mets (Carrasco 0-1) at L.A. Dodgers and I’ve received has been over- typical healing time for such an in- waved to the dugout for assistance. (Buehler 12-2) whelming. I’d also like to thank jury, according to Paparesta. He never lost consciousness. Philadelphia (Moore 2-3) at San Diego (Snell 6-4) Rush University Medical Center Bassitt was released from Rush The A’s said Wednesday that an Saturday’s games and their staff. God is good. Can’t University Medical Center after exam of his right eye was normal Minnesota at N.Y. Yankees Chicago White Sox at Tampa Bay wait to get back!” Bassitt wrote. receiving stitches for two cuts on for vision and no other damage was Kansas City at Chicago Cubs Detroit at Toronto “We’re all incredibly grateful his face and being diagnosed with a found in the eye or the orbital bone. San Francisco at Oakland that Chris is doing as well as he is displaced tripod fracture — mean- The team also said a head CT scan L.A. Angels at Cleveland Seattle at Houston today. It was an awful thing to have ing three different bones — in his revealed no further injury. Atlanta at Baltimore Texas at Boston ALEX GALLARDO/AP to watch,” Oakland general man- right cheek that will require sur- The 32-year-old Bassitt was 12-3 N.Y. Mets at L.A. Dodgers Washington at Milwaukee Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher ager David Forst said. “Also for gery. With the bones out of place, with a 3.06 ERA in 24 starts head- Miami at Cincinnati Trevor Bauer is fighting a our players and our staff to be they will have to be moved back in- ing into the game, leading the AL in Pittsburgh at St. Louis Arizona at Colorado restraining order. there on the field as well. We’re to the right positions, Paparesta victories. Philadelphia at San Diego Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 45 NFL Stafford, Rams struggle in joint practice Raiders pick off three passes, Rams offensive line struggles, but McVay says he isn’t concerned yet

BY DAN GREENSPAN Associated Press “We’ve got a long THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — There were dark clouds over the way to go and we Los Angeles Rams during their first joint practice with the Las still have a good Vegas Raiders on Wednesday, amount of time, and it had nothing to do with an unusual August rainstorm that but we can’t alternated from drizzling to downpour and back again during afford to waste a the two-hour session. Matthew Stafford threw three single day.” interceptions, the offensive line was often overwhelmed and the Sean McVay run game mostly ineffective, the Los Angeles Rams coach second time in less than two weeks the Rams starters have not pass was too high for wide receiv- been able to get on track in a er Robert Woods, hitting him in workout with another team. the hand before Raiders rookie Despite seeing similar issues safety Tre’von Moehrig inter- from their recent practice with cepted the deflected ball. MARCIO JOSE SANCHEZ/AP the Dallas Cowboys, coach Sean Cornerback Rasul Douglas and Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay talks to quarterback Matthew Stafford during a joint practice with McVay isn’t concerned by those linebacker Cory Littleton, a for- the Las Vegas Raiders Wednesday, in Irvine, Calif. struggles yet. mer Ram, had the other two “You learn from it,” McVay picks. tempt and complete deep balls But Stafford said there is value quarterback’s assessment. said. “We don’t do any sort of “They did a nice job getting the working with the Cowboys on in the adversity that comes from “These practices are good indi- game planning for these practic- ball back from us a couple times,” Aug. 7 in Oxnard, Calif., there operating in unfamiliar situa- cators of where you’re at,” es. This is a great opportunity to Stafford said. “I made a couple was no such improvement tions before the games count. McVay said. “It’s not the end all, test a lot of our rules, and that’s poor decisions that I wish I had against Las Vegas. “It’s always good to get out be all because of how we ap- what I like about Matthew is he’s back, that’s practice. Some of the Stafford’s best completion of there and play somebody differ- proach it, but we’ve got a long aggressively trying things out so new stuff we’re putting in, I want the day came on a short crossing ent,” Stafford said. “Different way to go and we still have a good then you can learn how to be to make sure I get reps at it. I got route over the middle by Cooper schemes, different looks, you amount of time, but we can’t af- smart with that decision-making to do a better job of making sure Kupp that allowed the wide re- know, different players, just get- ford to waste a single day.” thought process when the games we end up with the ball after ev- ceiver to run after making the ting used to all that stuff. We saw That last point was McVay’s really count. There are a lot of ery play.” catch. some stuff from them that we biggest concern after a fight be- good things. It’s a totally different The common trait on all three Stafford was sacked on his sec- haven’t seen any of in camp, tween Los Angeles defensive structure defensively than what of Stafford’s turnovers was an in- ond drop back, and several other which is really good for us as a tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day and we’re accustomed to seeing.” ability to set his feet and throw plays could have been whistled team and me as a quarterback to Raiders offensive lineman Richie The team period pitting the with power because of pressure dead. There were also procedure see our plays kind of develop Incognito and a hard hit by Las starting offenses and defenses in the pocket. While the offensive penalties, and one of the few pro- against certain coverages and Vegas safety Johnathan Abram against one another got off to a line eventually found ways to ductive runs by Darrell Hender- certain players.” on Woods during a two-minute bad start when Stafford’s first give Stafford enough time to at- son Jr. was flagged for holding. McVay agreed with his new drill created a sour mood. White’s quest to shed bust label endures with Saints BY BRETT MARTEL prove myself right and everyone else coached him in Chicago in 2016. Associated Press wrong.” White said he appreciated the way John- METAIRIE, La. — Kevin White, the for- White had 1,447 yards and 10 TDs receiv- son challenged him with the Bears and fig- mer West Virginia star receiver and seventh ing in his final college season in 2014. He has ured Johnson’s presence on the Saints’ staff overall NFL draft choice in 2015, says he’s just 25 catches for 285 yards without a touch- had something to do with his latest opportu- been lucky in life, but decidedly less fortu- down since the Chicago Bears made him a nity, although they haven’t spoken about it. nate in his pro football career. first-round draft choice. White described his career thus far as “ve- “Unlucky with injuries,” White said after He didn’t play as a rookie because of a frac- ry frustrating, just because I felt like I put the his first practice with the New Orleans Saints tured tibia. He got into just four games in his work in, I had the right mindset and for what- on Wednesday. “But very lucky to still be in second season when he fractured his fibula. ever reason it just doesn’t pan out.” this league.” He played just one game for Chicago in 2017, “But I can’t hang my head,” White added. White was among a handful of new Saints when he broke his shoulder. He saw his most “Sometimes, I ask, ‘Why?’ But I just got to players at Wednesday’s practice. The club action with the Bears in 2018, playing nine keep going.” also added rookie cornerback Bryan Mills, games. After a brief offseason stint with Ari- He said praying, support from family, a defensive back Natrell Jamerson, and offen- zona in 2019, he sat out the regular season be- positive outlook and not wanting to have any sive linemen Jordan Mills and Caleb Beno- fore catching on with San Francisco in 2020. regrets has kept him in football. nech. RICK SCUTERI/AP White spent most of last season on the “It’s just something that I love to do and ... I White, who has played in just 17 games in New Orleans Saints wide receiver Kevin practice squad, playing in just three games don’t think I would be able to live with myself his injury-riddled career, and who hasn’t White has been frequently injured and has without a catch. knowing that I had a lot of potential and just made a catch in an NFL game since 2018, was played in just 17 games in five years and Saints coach Sean Payton, who designs giving it up,” White said. “I don’t ever want to cut by San Francisco a week ago. He said the hasn’t had a catch since 2018. and often calls the offense, said New Orleans look back and say, ‘Man, I should have just opportunity to join New Orleans “means ev- likes the 6-foot-2 White’s combination of size tried one more time. Man, I wish I would erything, going on year seven, not really get- after by a touchdown on a short crossing and speed at age 29. have put more work in.’ So I’m going for it ting the opportunity” to hold a regular role route. “He’s someone we’d like to work with. I until they kick me out of this league. while healthy in the NFL. “I’m healthy. I know a lot about the game. I like the way he runs,” Payton said. “Obvious- “My career hasn’t panned out the way I During 11-on-11 drills near the end of know how the business works,” White said. ly, he’s a former first-round pick.” planned it to be,” White added. “But that’s a Wednesday’s practice, White caught a quick “It means a lot, man, that someone else gave In New Orleans, White’s been reunited part of the journey that’s going to make the slant inside the 20-yard line, followed soon me a chance to live out my dream and kind of with receivers coach Curtis Johnson, who story a lot better.” PAGE 46 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 NFL Denver’s QBs try to separate Lock, Bridgewater ‘even-Steven’

BY ARNIE STAPLETON Fangio said afterward that their Associated Press performances validated his notion ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — Erratic that “they’re even-Steven” in this practices throughout training QB clash in which they’ve traded camp and a stellar preseason off good days for bad and have opener for both Drew Lock and even been inconsistent from one Teddy Bridgewater have left Den- series to the next. ver fans — and Fangio hopes to have a better maybe even idea of who will lead his offense in coach Vic Fangio 2021 after the Broncos’ game at himself — still Seattle on Saturday night, whether wondering who Seahawks coach Pete Carroll will win the plays his starters. Broncos’ start- Denver’s three preseason oppo- DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/AP ing quarterback nents — the Rams, Seahawks and Broncos quarterbacks Teddy Bridgewater, front, and Drew Lock are competing for the starting job. job. Vikings — are the three teams that Fangio Fangio said played the fewest front-line start- tices 1s on 1s against ourselves are “Like I said after the game, if I’m you figure it out. It really comes neither nudged into the lead last ers last weekend. very telling. And we can’t control worrying about so much about a down to the basics — control what weekend at Minnesota, where Asked if that handicapped his what the other teams (do) in these decision being made, then I’m do- you can control and worry about Lock (153.3) and Bridgewater quarterback competition by giv- preseason games,” Fangio said. ing a disservice to this team and yourself and how you can get bet- (144.8) posted the two best passer ing him a less-than-ideal barome- Asked if he already has all the in- the 10 other guys that are out there ter and make this team better. ratings in the NFL’s opening slate ter, Fangio said, “It could. But I formation he needs to make a deci- with me.” “I feel like I can make this team of exhibitions games in dicing up don’t make up the preseason sion, Fangio said, “Pretty damn Lock said he’s not stressing out better by being a better me. That the Vikings’ backups 33-6. schedule.” close. But we’ve got more informa- over the decision as he did early was my main focus going through Lock got the start and went 5- At any rate, Fangio said he’s not tion coming.” on. this.” for-7 for 151 yards and two touch- just basing his decision on presea- While everyone around them “The human nature is to dive in- Notes: First-round pick Patrick downs, including an 80-yard strike son games, so even if it’s a bevy of seems to be evaluating every sin- to it, think about it and almost over- Surtain II was held out of practice to K.J. Hamler, and Bridgewater backups they’re facing again this gle snap, Bridgewater and Lock analyze sometimes. That’s just hu- with a lower leg injury, but Fangio completed 7 of 8 passes for 74 weekend, “I think we can judge it are focused on the bigger picture. mans being humans,” Lock said. said he should be fine. ... OLB Von yards and a touchdown in relief. very accurately.” “Honestly, I really don’t even “To say that I’ve never done that in Miller returned to practice after a He also had a 12-yard TD run that “I think the practices against think about a decision being this process, I’d be lying to you. But two-day absence to attend the was called back. Minnesota are telling. I think prac- made,” Bridgewater insisted. through the process, you grow, and birth of his son. Attorney: FBI probing allegations tied to Watson

BY JUAN A. LOZANO thorities, but he does not know details about Associated Press them. HOUSTON — An attorney for 22 women At his news conference, Hardin read what who have filed lawsuits accusing Houston he said were text messages to Watson from Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson of the woman he is accusing of extortion. In sexual assault and harassment said them, she does not mention an alleged attack Wednesday that he and some of his clients on Dec. 28, 2020, during a massage session, have spoken to the FBI about the case. Hardin said. Tony Buzbee told The Associated Press According to Hardin, the woman said in that the FBI “reached out to me, and I re- one text, “Hey Deshaun just wanted to say sponded.” The FBI’s invol- thank you for trusting me with your massage vement was first reported today. I’ll be here til Jan. 3 if you’d like to get Tuesday by League of Jus- another one.” tice, a website that reports Hardin said that in another text, the wom- on sports and the law. an wrote, “I just want to say I apologize for The revelation by Buz- my actions. That was not me. And if I could bee of the FBI’s involve- take back that moment I would. I really de- ment prompted Watson’s valued my integrity and professionalism.” lead attorney to hold a Buzbee accused Hardin of attacking the Buzbee news conference on women who have sued Watson. Wednesday to say that the “Deshaun Watson has a problem and his FBI had spoken with the quarterback earli- lawyer is not focused on that,” Buzbee said. er this year about allegations of extortion by JUSTIN REX/AP “He’s focused on trying to attack me or my one of his accusers. Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson has been accused of sexual assault and clients and I’m tired of it.” In their lawsuits, the 22 women accuse harassment by 22 women. Watson’s lawyers have sought to balance Watson of exposing himself, touching them their defense of the NFL star while simulta- with his penis or kissing them against their the accusations, but no charges have been The woman alleges Watson forced her to neously condemning sexual violence will during massage appointments. filed. The NFL has launched its own probe. perform oral sex. against women. Watson and his lawyers have denied the At a news conference Wednesday, Rusty In an email, Christina Garza, a spokeswo- But Watson’s attorneys have called the accusations. His lawyers have said “some Hardin, Watson’s lead attorney, said FBI man for the FBI’s Houston office, said she lawsuits against him a “money grab” and sexual activity” happened during some of agents approached him in April over allega- could neither confirm nor deny the exist- fired back that all 22 women who have filed the appointments but that he never coerced tions that one of the women who has sued ence of an investigation. suit are lying, a strategy some experts and anyone. Watson tried to extort $30,000 from him. Hardin said grand jury subpoenas have advocates say relies on long-used tropes de- Houston police are investigating some of Hardin said agents interviewed Watson. been sent out in the investigation by local au- signed to minimize such accusations. Friday, August 20, 2021 • STARS AND STRIPES • PAGE 47 NFL Rookie QBs fuel hype with impressive debuts

BY ROB MAADDI Associated Press Justin Fields outshined his fel- low first-round quarterbacks in their preseason openers. Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, Trey Lance and Mac Jones also made a positive impression in their debuts. So did Jordan Love, who isn’t a rookie but didn’t take a snap last year. A few series against backups, third-stringers and future practice squad guys won’t determine much about any young player but a strong start is better than a poor one. “We all want him to play really well,” Bears coach Matt Nagy said of Fields. “That’s a good thing for him to go out and play well.” While fans and analysts will overhype preseason performanc- es, most coaches put more stock in- to practices than games, especially the joint sessions against other clubs. Fields, the fourth QB selected in the NFL Draft at No. 11 overall, was 14-for-20 for 142 yards in just over two quarters of action for Chicago against Miami’s reserves. He made impressive throws out- side the pocket and overcame a fumble during a scramble follow- ing a spin move.

The former Ohio State star had NAM Y. HUH/AP no problem adjusting to the game Bears quarterback Justin Fields, left, prepares to throw against the Miami Dolphins during Saturday’s preseason game in Chicago. speed. “It was actually kind of slow to But Nagy also wants to see Fields completed 6 of 9 passes for 71 yards plans to give him more reps against ess has been consistent, and it’s me, to be honest,” Fields said. play against a starting defense at in two series. the Packers on Saturday and play been consistently good. Hopefully, It’ll get much faster, especially some point. Lawrence started over Gardner him in the final preseason game we can continue to build on it.” when the games count. “It can be good to see what he Minshew but Jaguars rookie coach next week. Lance, selected No. 3 by San Nagy plans to start veteran Andy does against a first-team defense,” Urban Meyer hasn’t officially giv- “To me, he’s so far ahead with re- Francisco, made the biggest play of Dalton in Week 1 regardless of how Nagy said. “It’s part of the evalua- en him the job. Despite the appear- gards to how he sees the game,” Sa- all the rookie QBs last week. He well Fields performs in the presea- tion process. There’s zero schem- ance of an open competition, Law- leh said Tuesday about Wilson’s rolled to his left, stopped, set his son. Dalton is expected to take ing going on in these preseason rence is expected to be behind cen- progression. “It’s not just, ‘What’s a feet and launched an 80-yard more snaps against Buffalo on Sat- games.” ter on Week 1. formation, what’s my play call?’ touchdown pass. Aside from a cou- urday. Lawrence, the No. 1 overall pick, Wilson, the No. 2 overall pick, He’s looking at the other side of the ple of dazzling plays, Lance was “Justin understands the plan, he got sacked and fumbled on his first was 6-for-9 for 63 yards and led the ball and he’s doing a really nice job spotty. He finished 5-for-14, includ- understands the process,” Nagy play from scrimmage with Jack- New York Jets to a field goal in two and the results are changing but ing three dropped passes, for 128 said. sonville. He bounced back and series. Jets coach Robert Saleh that can flip another time. His proc- yards and was sacked four times. Career: Former Air Force standout getting opportunity with Jets

FROM PAGE 48 Serving five years of active mil- training camp with the Cardinals Lewis has three interceptions in itary service is required of Air before being a late-camp cut. The team drills during camp, flashing Force Academy graduates. The Jets claimed him the next day and the type of playmaking ability that Department of Defense adopted a he was reunited with Chip made him a star his last two years policy in November 2019 that al- Vaughn, a defensive assistant in at Air Force. lows athletes to delay their active- New York who was Lewis’ second- “Obviously, there’s a learning duty service. They must eventual- ary coach at Air Force. process that he’s got to go through, ly fulfill their obligation or have to Lewis was among the Jets’ final going from corner to safety,” repay the costs of their education. cuts but was signed to the practice coach Robert Saleh said. “I Lewis became the first Air squad, where he spent the season. thought he’s done a really nice job Force senior to apply for deferred Now he’s trying to make the Week through OTAs and training camp. service time, a process that took a 1 roster. Being at Air Force cer- He’s stacked up some good days few months and requires service tainly helped Lewis prepare for and he’s got to continue to stack athletes to provide proof they have the rigors of training camp. things up. But I’m encouraged a viable professional career path. “Going through basic training, with the way it has gone so far.” Lewis went undrafted last year, that was very tough — long, long Last Friday, the Jets and Giants but was signed as a free agent by days,” he said. “In the morning, Air Force Academy photo hosted their first Salute to Service Arizona — fulfilling that major re- they’re screaming at you and go- Air Force Academy cornerback Zane Lewis breaks up a pass during a Bowl at MetLife Stadium — a quirement. ing, ‘Get up! Wake up!’ You have 48­7 victory over Colgate on Aug. 31, 2019, at USAF Academy, Colo. game that consisted of teams of ac- “I’m thankful for the Force al- to be up and do things very fast. tive-duty service members from event. Instead, he was on the field Lewis said. lowing me to be able to play this And yeah, throughout the whole all branches of the armed forces. the following night for the Jets in This NFL opportunity didn’t sport I love,” Lewis said, “and pur- day, you have to be on your game. Given other circumstances, Lewis their preseason opener. come without overcoming a few sue this dream of mine.” And that’s how it has to be on the might have been playing in that “There’s still lots of work to do,” hurdles. Lewis spent last summer in field, too.” PAGE 48 • STARS AND STRIPES • Friday, August 20, 2021 Under investigation? SPORTS Attorney says FBI probing into allegations against Texans QB Watson ›› Page 46

NFL Spreading his wings Former Air Force star Lewis’ career set to take off with Jets

BY DENNIS WASZAK JR. Associated Press

ane Lewis enjoyed the serenity of the sky, soaring through the air in his single-engine plane high above the world below. Z As a cadet in the Air Force Academy’s powered flight program, Lewis would strap into the cockpit with a trainer and take off. He’d glide the Cirrus SR20 over the campus and get breathtaking views of Colorado Springs. “At first, it definitely is scary, but the more you do it, it’s more calming,” the New York Jets safe- ty said. “You’re up there and it’s just, like, you. When you’re driving, there’s cars going past you left and right, But up there, it’s mostly just you.” The worst part for Lewis, though, was coming back down. Literally. “Landing was very, very tough for me,” Lewis said with a big laugh. “They aren’t big planes. Lewis They’re smaller planes, so there are times you’re coming in and you’re on a straight path and there’s like a gust of wind and you blow off to the side and you’re offline and you’re like, ‘Dang, I’m off path!’ And it’s tough to kind of get back on track. So the trainer will take it and they’ll land it from there.” Touchdown, Lewis. Conquering challenges is nothing new for the Richmond, Va., native. The latest has the 23-year-old Lewis making the switch from cornerback, the position he has played most of his career, to safety in New York’s defense.

SEE CAREER ON PAGE 47 DID YOU KNOW?

There were three former Air Force players on NFL rosters last season: Offensive lineman Ben Garland (2010 graduate) with San Francisco, tight end Garrett Griffin (2016 graduate) with New Orleans, and long snapper Austin Cutting (2019 graduate) with Minnesota. SOURCE: Pro-football-reference.com

As a cadet in the Air Force Academy’s powered flight program, New York Jets safety Zane Lewis always enjoyed the serenity of the sky. “At first, it definitely is scary, but the more you do it, it’s more calming,” Lewis said, words that should serve him well as he transitions from his collegiate position of cornerback.

FRANK FRANKLIN II/AP

LLWS back minus fans, international teams ›› Page 43