House Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Jared Kushner a "slumlord" on Thursday as she defended Democratic Rep. Elijah Cummings and his Baltimore -area district following days of attacks from President Trump. Pelosi, a Baltimore native whose father and brother served as mayor of the city, said Trump should consult with Kushner after he belittled the majority-black district in a multiday Twitter barrage. Kushner's family owns apartments buildings and other property in the Baltimore area and has been criticized for the kinds of despair and neglect Trump accused Cummings and local leaders of ignoring. TRUMP TO CUMMINGS: 'TAKE YOUR OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE AND GO TO BALTIMORE' TO INVESTIGATE CORRUPTION "The president -- this comes as no surprise -- really doesn't know what he's talking about, " Pelosi told reporters. "But maybe you could ask his son-in-law, who's a slumlord there, if he wants to talk about rodent infestations." In an interview with The Baltimore Sun , Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. said the county had to threaten Kushner's firm to get it to address code violations and other issues at some of its properties. Kushner stepped down as CEO when he joined the Trump administration in 2017. Trump attacked Cummings, a 13-term congressman who chairs the House Oversight and Reform Committee , over several days, dubbing him racist and saying his Baltimore district is in worse shape than the southern border with Mexico. The president described it as a "disgusting rat and rodent-infested mess." He was roundly condemned by Democrats for his comments. DALLAS COWBOYS' TAVON AUSTIN RESPONDS TO NEGATIVE PORTRAYAL OF BALTIMORE AMID TRUMP'S COMMENTS The verbal attacks came after the committee authorized subpoenas for the communications of White House officials, including Kushner, over private emails accounts and messaging apps. The Democrat-led House earlier this month passed a resolution condemning Trump for comments, deemed racist by some, that were directed at four congresswomen of color . He tweeted that they should go back to the "crime infested places" from which they came and then "come back and show us how it's done." CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP In defending Cummings, Pelosi called him the pride of Baltimore. She said Trump's remarks reflect his own "insecurity and his own lack of understanding about what progress really is." The Associated Press contributed to this report.


WASHINGTON -- Pete Buttigieg this week canceled several campaign events after returning to South Bend, Indiana, following a police-involved shooting that left a black man dead. South Bend resident Eric Logan was shot early Sunday after the police responded to a report that a suspicious person was going through cars, the St. Joseph County prosecutor's office said, according to the Associated Press . Logan was confronted by a police officer in a vehicle at an apartment building parking lot, the AP reported. The prosecutor's office said Logan exited the vehicle and approached the officer with a knife raised and the officer opened fire, according to the AP. The name and race/ethnicity of the officer were not released. Logan, 54, died at a hospital and an autopsy was scheduled for Monday. Buttigieg, who is the mayor of South Bend and is also running for the Democratic nomination for president, traveled to the city on Sunday afternoon following news of the shooting. Pete Buttigieg: Being gay is 'not the only thing that defines me' An interactive guide: Who is running for president in 2020? He canceled a Monday fundraiser in New York City, in addition to several scheduled meetings and media interviews. He was also scheduled to speak at the LGBTQ Gala at the Democratic National Committee in New York, but canceled his speech. His husband, Chasten Buttigieg, will give the speech in his place. Campaign stops in California on Tuesday and Wednesday were also canceled, Pete Buttigieg's campaign confirmed to USA TODAY. The two-day trip had included a series of fundraisers and a policy rollout. The mayor has been criticized by black community leaders in South Bend in the past. During his first term in office, he fired the city's first black police chief, according to the AP. He also was criticized for his handling of past shootings that involved police officers and the lack of diversity in the city's police department. Forty percent of South Bend residents are black or Hispanic, but the police department is almost 90% white, the AP reported. During a press conference on Sunday night, Buttigieg said that there is an independent outside investigation being conducted to determine whether the officer's use of force was justified, which he said is done in all the city's officer-involved shootings. Pete Buttigieg: 'Almost certain' that the United States has had gay presidents More: What you need to know about the 2020 election so far He said that he's currently there in South Bend in his capacity as mayor. When asked about criticisms of his response to other police-involved shootings, Buttigieg said he is being upfront by communicating with the city's residents "because of lessons learned from members of the community." "We've had prior cases of use-of-force incidents and officer-involved shootings where I hesitated, frankly, to get in front of cameras because we didn't know very much, and it was out of our hands," he said. "What I was told by people in the community is that it is important to open channels of communication to try to be clear on where the city is, even if we don't find ourselves in a position to be able to say or do much right away." "So we will continue to be in dialogue ... with community leaders and continue to seek ways to ensure that there is healing and that trust can be reinforced by everything that happens going forward," he added. Like what you're reading?: Download the USA TODAY app for more This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Buttigieg cancels campaign events after fatal police shooting in South Bend


With an incredibly crowded group of running backs on the Seattle Seahawks roster, former Alabama back Bo Scarbrough appears to be on the outside looking in for a spot heading into the 2019 season. There are five halfbacks - Chris Carson, Rashaad Penny, Travis Homer, J.D. McKissic and C.J. Prosise - ahead of Scarbrough on the depth chart, and even if he really impresses in training camp it's hard to see him overtaking enough of them to make the 53-man roster. However, there is another way the Seahawks could sneak Scarbrough onto the roster: They could move him to fullback. The Seahawks let Tre Madden walk in free agency this offseason, instead opting to sign veteran Nick Bellore away from the Lions. Bellore transitioned from linebacker to fullback during his last two NFL seasons, hauling in six receptions (on six targets) for 39 yards and a touchdown. He's only run the ball once, however, primarily serving as a special teams player with a limited role on the offense - much like Madden for the last two seasons in Seattle. Bellore is clearly the favorite to replace Madden this season, but if the Seahawks wanted to give him some competition they could transition Scarbrough, who is listed at 6 feet 1 and 235 pounds, into a fullback. Scarbrough's size is nearly identical to Madden, who was listed at 6 feet and 235 pounds. He's considerably smaller than Bellore however, who stands at 6-1 and 250 pounds. Scarbrough has experience catching the ball, having hauled in 21 receptions for 131 yards in his three years at Alabama. He was a seventh-round pick by the Cowboys in 2018 but has yet to appear in an NFL game. Scarbrough was known as a punishing runner while at Alabama, which could translate well into a fullback role, although the Seahawks have not used their fullback as a ball carrier very often lately. Bellore may appear uncontested at the fullback position when training camp kicks off next week, but keep an eye on Scarbrough. The Seahawks are not afraid to get creative with positions, and this could be a good way for them to hold on to Scarbrough. MORE: Is Tacko Fall an NBA player? Here is the case for why... and why not Dan Le Batard delivers impassioned rebuke of racist 'send her back' chant despite ESPN rules NFL does not suspend Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill Ranking the Packers' position groups from weakest to strongest Roundup: Tiger Woods is Struggling; Alex Morgan's New Project; Area 51 is Big Business


Curious just how far your dollar goes in Detroit? We've rounded up the latest rental listings via rental sites Zumper and Apartment Guide to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to hunting down a rental in Detroit if you've got $1,300/month earmarked for your rent. Take a look at the listings below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 1145 Griswold St. (Downtown) Listed at $1,248/month, this 498-square-foot studio apartment is located at 1145 Griswold St. Animals are not welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Walk Score indicates that the area around this address has excellent walkability, is quite bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here .) 415 Clifford St. (Downtown) Here's a 539-square-foot studio apartment at 415 Clifford St. that's going for $1,260/month. The unit features hardwood floors, in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet. Neither cats nor dogs are permitted. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. According to Walk Score, the area around this address is extremely walkable, is quite bikeable and is a haven for transit riders. (See the full listing here .) 51 W. Palmer Ave. (Wayne State) Finally, check out this 600-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom spot that's located at 51 W. Palmer Ave. It's listed for $1,295/month. In the unit, expect to hardwood floors and a renovated kitchen. The building offers on-site laundry. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. According to Walk Score, this location has excellent walkability, is very bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options. (See the complete listing here .) Working with a tight budget? Here are the cheapest rentals recently listed in Detroit . This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


More than 100 fighters were killed in clashes between regime and jihadist-led forces in northwest Syria, a war monitor said Thursday, as violence raged on the edge of an opposition bastion despite a September truce deal. Eight civilians also died in the latest violence since Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Six of them, including a child, were killed in regime air strikes on the town of Jisr al-Shughur. The UN said it had received reports that the strikes hit medical facilities and health care workers. Syria's civil war has killed more than 370,000 people and spiralled into a complex conflict since starting in 2011 with the repression of anti-government protests. Russian and regime aircraft have since late April ramped up the deadly bombardment of the Idlib region of some three million people in northwest Syria, despite a deal to avert a massive government assault. Regime forces have also been battling jihadists and allied rebels on the edges of the bastion held by Syria's former Al-Qaeda affiliate Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, including the north of Hama province. Fighting and bombardment since the launch of the attack late Wednesday killed at least 57 regime forces and 44 jihadists and allied rebels, the Britain-based war monitor said, giving a revised death toll. "The fighting is ongoing as regime planes and artillery pound the area," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said. UN Secretary General UN chief Antonio Guterres "strongly condemned" the ongoing airstrikes and urged that "civilians and civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, must be protected". "Several health facilities were reportedly hit yesterday, including a hospital in Maarat al Numan, one of the largest hospitals in the area," the UN statement said Thursday. Car bomb in Afrin Hayat Tahrir al-Sham spokesman Abu Khaled al-Shami said the jihadist and rebel fighters attacked after dark, taking control of the village of Hamameyat and a hilltop. In air raids Thursday, a civilian was killed in a Russian strike on the Idlib town of Latamneh, the Observatory said, while rebel shelling cost the life of a woman in regime-held territory outside the jihadist stronghold. Elsewhere in Syria, eight civilians were among the 13 people killed in a car bomb near a checkpoint outside Afrin, the Observatory said. Turkish troops and Syrian proxies took control of Afrin from Kurdish forces they consider "terrorists" in March last year after a two-month air and ground offensive. "Among the victims, at least six are originally from Eastern Ghouta," a former rebel bastion near Damascus retaken by the regime last year, Abdel Rahman said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast, but a commander with a pro-Ankara faction accused Kurdish fighters. Since the Turkish-backed rebel takeover, the UN and human rights groups have documented widespread abuses in Afrin. The UN and Amnesty have also reported patterns of house appropriations by fighters and civilians bussed to Afrin during the surrender last year of Eastern Ghouta. Half of the Kurdish enclave's 320,000 residents have fled, according to a report by the UN Commission of Inquiry, and most are unable to return. Also on Thursday, several people were wounded in a car-bomb blast near a church in the Kurdish-majority city of Qamishli in northeast Syria, an AFP journalist and state media said. The attack was later claimed by the Islamic State group. Endless rounds of peace talks Endless rounds of UN-led peace talks have failed to stem the bloodshed in Syria. UN peace envoy Geir Pedersen, however, is pushing ahead with a 17-month-old effort to form a committee to write a post-war constitution. Both he and Damascus on Wednesday expressed "progress" towards forming the panel, whose composition has been the subject of dispute. Shored up by a series of Russian-backed victories since 2015, the regime wants to amend the current constitution, but the opposition wants an entirely new one. A September deal between Moscow and Ankara was supposed to avert a massive regime offensive on Idlib, but it was never fully implemented and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham took full administrative control in January. More than 570 civilians have been killed in regime and Russian air strikes on northwest Syria since late April, according to the Observatory. Rebel fire during the same period has killed more than 45 civilians in adjacent government-held areas.


Former UCLA running back Craig Lee allegedly took part in an attempted robbery gone wrong at a marijuana dispensary several years ago, and he is now facing serious charges stemming from the incident. According to court documents obtained by TMZ , Lee and two other men entered Kings Palace Marijuana Dispensary in Jurupa Valley, Calif., on June 30, 2016, and one of the men from the group shot a store employee during an altercation. Lee and the other two suspects fled when a store security guard returned fire, and they were no longer there when police arrived. The case has been investigated for the past three years, and prosecutors believe Lee and the two others were trying to orchestrate a robbery that went wrong. A key witness in the case said Lee's role "was to grab drugs and money and run." A warrant was issued for Lee's arrest last month, and he was arrested last Friday and charged with attempted murder and attempted robbery. He has been held on $1 million bond since and will be arraigned on Thursday. Lee's family has denied that the former running back had anything to do with the crime, saying in a statement that, "Anyone that knows Craig should know pulling a gun on someone with intentions to murder them is not in his character." A GoFundMe page has been started in an attempt to help Lee pay for legal fees, and TMZ noted that Green Bay Packers 2016 first-round pick Kenny Clark   who was teammates with Lee at UCLA   is among those who donated. Lee had academic issues during his time with the Bruins and never recorded a carry. He was part of a loaded recruiting class in 2013 and left the team in 2015.


The Golden State Warriors still have plenty of time before Game 1 of the NBA Finals in either Milwaukee or Toronto on May 30. That gives the team plenty of time to heal up from their bumps and bruises. While Kevin Durant is still a little ways away from returning from his calf strain , there is hope for a return from Andre Iguodala. The Warriors' lock-down defender missed Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals series sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers with his own left calf injury. Iguodala suffered the injury in Golden State's Game 3 win in Portland. Despite his MRI coming back as clean, he sat out in Game 4. Andre Iguodala did not practice today - Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) May 24, 2019 With the Finals beginning in five days, there's still plenty of rest time for him to get ready to go. With the potential of facing elite small forwards like Milwaukee's Giannis Antetokounmpo or Toronto's Kawhi Leonard, the Warriors would like to at least have Iguodala on the floor to combat those two on the defensive end if Durant can't go. Antetokounmpo averaged 23 points, 12 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in two games against Golden State while Leonard played one game and scored 37 points with eight rebounds. These two will be a handful for the Warriors to handle in the Finals, so they had better hope their main guys can get healthy and ready to go. MORE: 'Jeopardy' fans ripped James Holzhauer for how he said Dr. Dre's name but here's why he did it Former NFL great Mark Gastineau has a GoFundMe for the fight of his life How the Bulls can help the Lakers facilitate an Anthony Davis trade Kevin Durant's contributions are stamped indelibly into Warriors' culture Spurs' DeMar DeRozan 'possibly could be on the trade block' to Lakers


Asheville police have arrested Kareem Devante Porter, 27, in connection with a June 3 shooting at Deaverview Apartments. Officers responded to reports of an active breaking and entering at about 12:50 p.m. on June 3 and identified the suspect as Porter. Porter allegedly fired a gunshot into the apartment as he attempted to enter, but there were no injuries reported, according to a press release from APD. Porter has been charged with three felony offenses: discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling, breaking and entering to terrorize or injure, and possession of a firearm by a felon. More: Hope for peace emerges after deadly time in Deaverview More: Two plead guilty in Deaverview killing, sentenced to 5-7 years This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Kareem Devante Porter, of Asheville, arrested in Deaverview shooting


ROYAL OAK, MI   The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) is celebrating World Chimpanzee Day, recognizing the 59th anniversary of the day legendary primatologist and anthropologist Dr. Jane Goodall first traveled to what is now Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania to study the social interactions of wild chimpanzees. This special event, planned for Sunday, July 14, at the Detroit Zoo's Great Apes of Harambee, also celebrates the first birthday of chimpanzee Jane, who was born on the inaugural World Chimpanzee Day in 2018 and was named after Dr. Goodall. "By naming the baby chimpanzee Jane   and through this special event   we want to recognize her namesake's important work and bring awareness to the lives of chimpanzees and their conservation in nature," said DZS Chief Life Sciences Officer Scott Carter. A giant birthday card for Jane will be available for guests to sign. Zookeeper talks will be held at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Guests will be able to practice using tools similar to the way chimpanzees do, using sticks and a replica termite mound. They will also have the opportunity to practice being a chimpanzee field researcher using an ethogram, which is regularly used by scientists to observe animal behavior. The Zoo's 4-acre indoor-outdoor Great Apes of Harambee is home to 11 chimpanzees and three western lowland gorillas. Jane is the second baby born to mother, Abby, 36, and the fourth in 10 years for father, Imara, 23, who also sired daughters Zuhura, 5, and Akira, 7, as well as son Ajua, 10. Abby also gave birth to daughter Chiana, 25, at the Detroit Zoo. Chimpanzees are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to habitat loss, disease, fragmented populations and illegal wildlife trafficking. For hours, prices, directions and other information, call (248) 541-5717 or visit detroitzoo.org .


[What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox .] The chairman of a Chicago bank has been indicted in Manhattan on a charge that he issued millions of dollars in high-risk loans to President Trump's former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, in an effort to obtain a senior position in the administration, federal authorities said on Thursday. Prosecutors said the chairman, Stephen M. Calk of Federal Savings Bank, pushed the bank to give Mr. Manafort $16 million in loans in 2016 in exchange for help in procuring an appointment. Just after the election, Mr. Calk, 54, had sent Mr. Manafort a list of 10 positions he wanted, including Treasury secretary, commerce secretary and defense secretary, according to the indictment unsealed in Federal District Court. At the time, Mr. Manafort was trying to stave off foreclosure on several properties and desperately needed capital, the indictment said. Mr. Manafort, who had left the campaign in August, made two calls on Mr. Calk's behalf in late 2016 to officials on Mr. Trump's transition team, urging them to appoint Mr. Calk secretary of the Army, the indictment said. In the end, Mr. Calk was interviewed in January 2017 for a job as under secretary of the Army, but was not hired. One person with knowledge of the matter said Mr. Calk surrendered to federal authorities on Thursday morning. He is expected to appear in United States District Court later Thursday. Mr. Calk has been under investigation for well over a year in a case that was originally opened by federal prosecutors in Manhattan, but then passed to the special counsel's office during an inquiry into Mr. Manafort's business dealings, according to two people familiar with the investigation. The case was later returned to Manhattan for prosecution, those people said. The indictment charges Mr. Calk with one count of financial institution bribery. If convicted, he would face a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, although he would likely receive a lesser sentence. Daniel L. Stein, a lawyer for Mr. Calk, did not immediately comment. Mr. Manafort, 70, is serving a seven-and-half-year sentence at a minimum security prison in Pennsylvania. He was convicted of 10 felonies, including conspiracy to obstruct justice, bank fraud and tax fraud in two cases brought by the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III. The indictment released on Thursday said Mr. Manafort provided Mr. Calk with "valuable personal benefits" during the period he was seeking loans. Mr. Calk and the rest of his bank's credit committee conditionally approved the first loan to Mr. Manafort in the summer of 2016, during the presidential campaign. Days later, Mr. Manafort appointed Mr. Calk to an economic advisory committee affiliated with the campaign. Later in 2016, after Mr. Trump won the election, Mr. Manafort recommended to the presidential transition team that Mr. Calk be considered for an administration position, the indictment said. At the time, Mr. Manafort's first loan had been issued and a second loan was pending approval by the bank. Mr. Calk was ultimately given the opportunity to be formally interviewed for the position of under secretary of the Army at the transition team's offices in New York, though he was not hired, the indictment said.


NFL rookies often deal with different types of hazing during their first training camp experience. In the past, veterans have given the young guns hair cuts of their choosing that normally aren't too popular with the rookies. N'Keal Harry is praying that doesn't happen to him. The New England Patriots first-round pick recently appeared on Fox Sports 1's "Fair Game," with Kristine Leahy. After the interview, Leahy asked Harry about a potential rookie haircut on her Instagram story, and he immediately pleaded for his teammates to stay away from the hair. "Let's just say this," Harry said, as transcribed by MassLive . "Let's just hope I don't get a rookie haircut, because if I do, confidence is out the window, production might go down a little bit, so I might as well just keep the hair on the head. Think of something else." When Leahy asked if Harry thinks Tom Brady will bring out the clippers, he resorted to prayers. "Let's pray. I'll do anything." ( You can watch the full clip here. ) Harry was selected with the No. 32 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. The Arizona State product should provide Brady with a quality downfield target, whether he gets a late summer haircut or not.


Robert Mueller testified more than 60 times on Capitol Hill during his dozen years as FBI director, but none of those hearings packed anywhere near the amount of anticipation, partisan rancor, or political stakes as his appearance promises to on Wednesday. And the former special counsel has relied heavily on one man to help him navigate this Washington landmine   Jonathan Yarowsky. Over four decades as a Beltway attorney, Yarowsky offered impeachment advice to Bill Clinton, and worked for a lawmaker who Richard Nixon once called the "executioner." He oversaw an unsuccessful push to get a 1990s-era Attorney General Bill Barr to appoint an independent counsel to probe the George H.W. Bush administration's pre-Gulf War Iraq policies, and he handled fist-pounding document requests from Congress during the contentious Clinton years. Essentially, he's been a part of some of the biggest "gate" controversies since Watergate   Iraqgate, Whitewatergate, Travelgate, Filegate. And now, he's a late entry to Russia-gate. The 70-year-old lawyer who is a partner at WilmerHale, Mueller's old law firm, has handled the drawn-out negotiations with House staffers over the contours of Mueller's testimony. And he's helped Mueller navigate a toxic Capitol Hill environment that is far more partisan than what the former Russia investigator experienced when he last testified there six years ago as FBI director. Thanks to Yarowsky, both House Democrats and Mueller have made concessions. Initially, Mueller stated he did not want to testify at all, but facing the reality of a subpoena, the special counsel's representative has been able to limit his latest client's appearances before two panels to five hours. And notably, none of Mueller's testimony will be behind closed doors   a precarious situation that would have allowed lawmakers to later skew his statements publicly. "He's the right guy to get. He understands the sand traps as well as anybody," said Julian Epstein, who replaced Yarowsky in the mid-1990s as the Democrats' top counsel on the Judiciary Committee. "He's a good insurance policy to make sure the dialogue beforehand is what it should be." "Sounds like a wise move for Mueller to have such a Sherpa," added Georgia Rep. Hank Johnson, a senior Democrat on the House Judiciary panel who will be among the first to question Mueller. Of course, Mueller is not a man who needs a roadmap to ready himself for Congress. A half-dozen people who know the long-time lawman described a studious and sober preparer who would conduct practice sessions before legal showdowns, hunker down by himself to go through notes and receive briefers one-by-one ahead of even routine oversight hearings. But Mueller's testimony this week will be his first as a private citizen. That means he's without the deep bench of resources he had during dozens of Capitol Hill appearances as the FBI director under both Republican and Democratic presidents. Now, Mueller is relying on people like Yarowsky and a core group of top aides who were among his earliest hires in the Russia probe   longtime chief of staff Aaron Zebley and James Quarles, who took a lead role during the investigation working with lawyers for President Donald Trump and the White House. While Zebley and Quarles are there to prep Mueller on the detailed and barbed questions he's likely to get about his team's final report, Yarowsky has been there to line up the logistics and offer other Capitol Hill guidance. Perhaps most importantly, Yarowsky maintains lasting connections to the Judiciary Committee. He spent more than a dozen years as one of the panel's top lawyers. His boss for much of the time was Rep. Jack Brooks, the panel's chair from 1989 to 1995. Brooks was a famous firebrand in Washington, intimidating to even the most bludgeoning of lawmakers. The Texas Democrat drew Nixon's ire for his leadership role in the committee's impeachment hearings and a 1977 Washington Post article quoted one of Lyndon B. Johnson's former aides calling Brooks as "one of the few men LBJ was ever afraid of." Yarowsky's work on the Judiciary Committee gave him ties to all sorts of figures who now run both Capitol Hill and the Trump administration. He was an early boss for Perry Apelbaum, who has since risen to become the committee's Democratic staff director and general counsel. And he was part of a Democratic team that clashed with Barr, who was serving his first stint as attorney general under the first president Bush. The biggest stand-off with Barr came when the attorney general rejected a House Judiciary Committee request for an independent counsel probe into whether the Bush administration broke the law in the lead-up to the 1990 Iraq war. Barr's refusal was the subject of outrage on the left   columnist William Safire called him the "Coverup - General"   and even led to calls for his impeachment from the lawmakers Yarowsky worked with. Intriguingly, Yarowsky also had a hand in reauthorizing the independent counsel statute that governed the investigations into his future boss, Bill Clinton. And as those probes picked up steam, Yarowsky moved to the White House to work for Clinton. He arrived right after the Newt Gingrich-led GOP wave in 1994 that ushered in a new era of enmity between Congress and the administration. Suddenly, Yarowsky, now a special counsel to the president, was on the other side, fielding demands from both Congress and independent counsel Kenneth Starr. They were looking into Bill and Hillary Clintons' Whitewater real estate deals from the 1970s in Arkansas. And they also were training their focus on the White House itself, pressing for details on everything from the firing of White House travel office staffers, also known as "Travelgate," to allegations the Clinton team improperly accessed FBI security clearance documents, also known as "Filegate." Sam Sokol, a former White House colleague who later worked with Yarowsky in private practice, said Yarowsky was the "key interface" between the GOP investigators, Clinton's White House lawyers and his legislative affairs office during this time period. "Basically, he spoke all three languages and could help folks with very different backgrounds and perspectives solve problems and get things done," he said. Eventually, Yarowsky shifted over to manage judicial nominations in Clinton's second term, taking him out of the direct line of fire. But according to his former colleagues, Yarowsky remained a frequent informal adviser for Clinton as impeachment turned from a Republican talking point into a reality. After the Clinton years ended, Yarowsky became a familiar lobbying face on Capitol Hill, working for everyone from Microsoft to the NFL Players Association and meeting with lawmakers and staffers across the political spectrum. In sum, Yarowsky has spent decades at the intersection of presidential scandal, special counsel fights, impeachment and heated congressional probes   all factors set to collide on Wednesday. That makes him the ideal Mueller Sherpa, according to those who know him. "Jon is going to avail himself of those constant contacts," said Ted Kalo, another former top House Judiciary Committee lawyer. "This is a guy who has spent almost the entirety of his career attending congressional hearings and observing how Congress works. Jon is going to have a very unique ability to not only be a person who is able to leverage his relationships, but he's able to forecast and prepare a person for what a hearing is going to feel like." Yarowksy did not respond to requests for comment about the role he's playing with Mueller, which first surfaced when his name was listed as the lone contact for the former special counsel at the bottom of the congressional subpoena the Judiciary Committee issued for his testimony last month. During the Mueller probe, Yarowsky wasn't on anyone's radar. But he was tuned in. During a panel discussion on Watergate last October in Ames, Iowa, Yarowsky, making a rare public appearance, described the similarities and differences between the scandal that ended Nixon's presidency and the Mueller probe. While both focused on potential obstruction of justice and the firing of senior law enforcement officials, he said that the country   and especially Congress   are in much different places politically today. He noted, for instance, how few moderate Republicans and Democrats serve on Capitol Hill today. The resulting "interpersonal chemistry," he said, is "why you saw incredible investigation and bipartisan action back then." Yarowsky's newest client is no stranger to Capitol Hill. Mueller appeared dozens of times while holding some of the most high-ranking jobs at DOJ, including his Senate confirmation hearing to be FBI director in July 2001 and a session to discuss intelligence gathering and counterterrorism in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. His methods for preparing for big moments are unlikely to change, people who know Mueller say. He's long used the same routines for any big moment   rigorous studying, in-depth briefings, and mock sessions to mimic the big event, whether it be a hearing or legal showdown. "Even for relatively simple presentations, Mueller would prepare relentlessly," said Chuck Rosenberg, a DOJ veteran who worked closely with Mueller and has known him for two decades. Rosenberg recalled briefers from all corners of DOJ and FBI "lining up" outside Mueller's conference room to go over various topics for something as simple as annual congressional oversight hearings, which are often a low-key affair. "He doesn't like public speaking," Rosenberg added. "But he prepares assiduously and is extremely credible because he doesn't try to spin, he doesn't speculate and he doesn't hypothesize." As FBI chief, Mueller's staff would work on building out talking points and crafting an opening statement. They'd gather background material on what members wanted to talk about and brief Mueller directly on those findings. They'd also track the latest media stories, fact-checking them along the way, to keep him up to date. "His style is 'just the facts, ma'am,'" said Joe Campbell, a 25-year FBI veteran who worked for Mueller during his entire dozen-year stint as FBI director. "He wants to be helpful, doesn't want to obfuscate or create the appearance of obstruction. I've never known him to fall flat. He's always been very direct and clear-thinking in his answers, and has tried to help members understand key points," Campbell added. Sometimes, Mueller would simply hide away by himself to pore over memos. "I've seen the door closed," said Melinda Haag, who served under Mueller when he was U.S. attorney in Northern California. "He prepares extensively for everything, so this would be no exception." Wednesday's back-to-back hearings before the Judiciary and Intelligence committees will present a whole new set of challenges for Mueller and his team, though. For starters, Mueller will have to address 63 total lawmakers between the two panels, although there is a little overlap. He'll also need to have a facility with two distinct volumes of his 448-page report   one which details Russia's election interference efforts and the other which lays out Trump's potential efforts to obstruct justice. As a witness, Mueller is more no-nonsense than natural storyteller. His former colleagues have even joked about his unyielding solemnity in front of Congress. "The first time I testified with him, you know, he sat there like a choir boy and never moved," recalled George Tenet, the former CIA director, during Mueller's 2013 retirement ceremony from the Justice Department. "I said, you know, 'Bob you have to learn how to emote a little bit.' He said, 'I can't emote. I've been trained as a prosecutor. We're not allowed to show emotion.'" Tenet said he even tried to get Mueller to crack a smile during hearings by covering his mouth with his hand and whispering something that no one else could hear. "Everybody thinks we're saying something profound to each other at the moment. Well, Bob and I would be in the middle of a testimony and I would cup my hand and look and say something to Mueller like, 'Bob isn't that the dumbest question you've ever heard in your life?'" "'Shut up,'" Mueller replied, according to Tenet. Regardless of how formal Mueller appears during Wednesday's hearings, the scene will be the "public spectacle," Barr has predicted . Pro-impeachment lawmakers say they're optimistic the hearing will help them swell their own ranks, while Democratic leaders are trying to keep the focus on the special counsel's findings and away from political theatrics. GOP members, for their part, want to pointedly question Mueller to cast doubt on his work's integrity. Yarowsky is well aware of these dynamics. At the panel discussion on Watergate last October hosted by Iowa State University, he set the scene for what's unfolding in Congress as lawmakers inch toward trying to impeach Trump. The "one thing" Watergate taught him, Yarowky said, "is that there's absolutely no political purpose or benefit to mingle politics with what you do with impeachment." Ousting Nixon may have seemingly boosted the Democrats in the short term   the party won big in the 1974 midterms and took back the presidency in 1976   but he recalled how the GOP came roaring back in 1980, as conservatives slowly started to cull moderates from the Republican ranks. "They built a core group of very conservative identity in the Republican party which now I think has led to the current administration and the point of view, good or bad," he said. And he repeated the now-familiar refrain about how the GOP attempt to oust Clinton in the late 1990s only made him more popular as a lame duck president and into his retirement. Essentially, Yarowsky argued you can never tell what the long-term political ramifications will be from impeachment. "My only point: Don't assume there's a political angle," Yarowsky said, "though that's what you're going to hear all the way."


I probably use my phone to search for at least a dozen things on the web every day, often more. For each search or visit to a favorite website, I instinctively open a new tab. Eventually, that means I have a pretty significant number of tabs open on my phone. With iOS 13, Apple built in a solution to the problem in the form of a feature that allows you to set those tabs to automatically close after a period of time. That means you can set things up so tabs will automatically expire after a day, week, or month so you don't have to go in and manually close them on your own (or wonder why you opened them in the first place). Macworld pointed out the feature earlier this week. Here's how to use it yourself: Open Settings Scroll down to Safari On the next page, scroll down until you see the Tabs section Tap Close Tabs at the bottom of that menu Select the amount of time you'd like for tabs to stay open on the next page By default, Apple will keep this set to manual, but you can choose to have the tabs close after a day, week, or month as well. I'd personally suggest the week option. While I've definitely found myself going back to reopen tabs that I had open the day before, it's exceptionally rare that I'll actually go back and look at a week old tab. In cases where I need that information again, I often end up opening a new tab entirely instead. That said, you do you. Pick the setting that works best for you, even if that means leaving those tabs open until your phone bites the dust.


"You can't have all Boy Scouts." That's what Oakland Raiders general manager Mike Mayock said after the team signed guard Richie Incognito, whose abilities on the field are usually overshadowed by his troubling incidents off of it. It was quite an about-face, considering that a month ago Mayock couldn't emphasize enough the importance he and Jon Gruden placed on character. That seemed a strange line to toe back then, because Oakland had already traded for receiver Antonio Brown and signed linebacker Vontaze Burfict. It seems even stranger now, because in Incognito, the Raiders have a guy whose off-field behavior makes Brown and Burfict look like, well, Boy Scouts. If, and it is an enormous "if," you can look past Incognito's ugly history, you'll see a guy who can actually play. He has made four Pro Bowls, including three consecutive from 2015-2017. He was out of football last year, in large part because of his off-field problems. Actions speak louder than words, and signing Incognito clearly shows where Oakland's priorities are. They want guys who can play, character be damned. Gruden doubtless believes that he's the right guy to make all of these personalities mesh, and maybe he'll be proven correct. He's a ravenous, maniacal "football guy" at his core, and the Incognitos, Burficts and Browns of the world tend to respond well to that sort of single-minded approach. It's worth taking a look, though, at what Gruden must deal with, because these three men represent the biggest challenge of his career. No one works harder at his craft than Brown, but he has also displayed a short fuse when he doesn't feel he's getting the ball enough, or when a pass sails well out of his reach. If he was willing to publicly and demonstratively express his frustration with two-time Super Bowl winner Ben Roethlisberger, what's going to stop him from airing out Derek Carr the minute things start to go bad? Oh, and Brown is also omnipresent on social media, including, infamously, an episode where he broadcast on Facebook Live after a Steelers playoff victory. That sort of distraction wasn't around during Gruden's first go-round with Oakland. In Burfict, Gruden has a player he profusely praised during his years as a broadcaster. Burfict's own Bengals teammates probably had a less favorable view of their talented-but-volatile linebacker, who routinely took bad penalties that hurt the team despite numerous fines aimed at curbing his reckless play. If his Twitter silence is any indication, Burfict probably won't be a major headache off the field, but will Gruden still be enamored with him if he costs the Raiders wins on it? The phrase "he's talented, but…" is a perfectly apt description of Burfict. That doesn't bode well for a harmonious player-coach relationship. The majority of Incognito's former teammates praise him as a blood- and-guts guy between the lines, but there might not be a more dangerous, unpredictable personality in the league. Joe Philbin had no control over Incognito when he played for Miami, and the bullying scandal that swirled around the team was one of the uglier situations in recent NFL history. How will Gruden manage to coax the most out of Incognito the player while managing to keep Incognito the person in check? Left to his own devices, he may take over the Raiders' locker room, which could lead to catastrophe. The addition of character risks and potential major distractions only makes sense as a roster-building strategy if there are strong leaders in the locker room. The coach tasked with managing them also must be an alpha male in his own right. Gruden cut that profile during his time with the Buccaneers, where he had highly respected veterans Derrick Brooks and John Lynch to lean on. They were guys who policed the room, and kept temperamental talents such as Keyshawn Johnson from stepping out of line. Oh, and the Bucs were loaded with talent, with Brooks and Warren Sapp in the midst of careers that would land them in Canton. There are no strong personalities on the Raiders like Brooks or Lynch. There is only Gruden, who has ironclad job security in the form of a nine-figure contract, but plenty of pressure to produce a year before the team moves to Vegas. There is no question he has injected more talent into his team, but at what cost? Related slideshow: Ranking top 20 NFL draft classes (provided by imagn)


The Colts claimed offensive guard Jake Eldrenkamp off waivers from New England, the team announced Tuesday. They waived offensive tackle De'Ondre Wesley to make room for Eldrenkamp. Eldrenkamp signed a futures contract with the Patriots on Feb. 5. He spent time on the Browns' practice squad in 2018. Eldrenkamp participated in training camp with the Rams last summer before they waived him out of the preseason. He spent time on the Rams' practice squad in 2017 after originally signing as an undrafted free agent out of Washington on May 2 of that year. Wesley signed a futures contract with Indianapolis on Jan. 13. He spent time on the practice squads of the Colts and Bills last season. Wesley spent the entire 2017 season on Buffalo's practice squad and was on the Ravens' injured reserve list for the 2016 season. As a rookie in 2015, Wesley spent time on the Ravens' active roster and practice squad. He saw action in seven games.


Iran will speed up enrichment of uranium and pull further out of the nuclear deal with world powers, Iranian officials said, in a move that could bring additional retaliatory measures by the United States in the form of sanctions or even military strikes. Behrouz Kamalvandi, the spokesman for Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, said Wednesday that Iran's move follows a two-month ultimatum given to European signatories to the deal to help Iran navigate U.S. sanctions that have harmed its economy. Kamalvandi's remarks were carried by the state-run IRIB news agency. Separately, Ali Shamkhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said Iran "will forcefully take the second step of reducing its commitments" to the nuclear deal on July 7 so "Iran's 'patience'" is not confused with "weakness." Shamkhani's comments were reported by the state-run Fars News Agency. In early May, Tehran suspended limits on its production of enriched uranium and heavy water, moves that did not technically violate the deal but aggressively signaled that its patience with an accord that the U.S. has already pulled out of was wearing thin. France, Germany and the United Kingdom, who stayed in the deal, have not been able to ensure that Iran retains access to international oil markets and banking services. Since then, tensions between Iran and the U.S. have risen markedly amid the shooting down of an American drone by Tehran, sabotaged oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and the Pentagon's dispatch of troops and B-52 bombers to the Middle East. "Any attack by Iran on anything American will be met with great and overwhelming force. In some areas, overwhelming will mean obliteration," Trump wrote on Twitter on Tuesday, less than a week after he called off a planned U.S. missile strike on Iran in retaliation for the shooting down of the U.S. drone. In recent days, the president has oscillated between tough talk and conciliatory rhetoric over what he may do next. "I hope we don't (go to war) but we're in a very strong position ... It wouldn't last very long ... I'm not talking boots on the ground ... I've been very nice to them ... They shot down our drone ... I like Iranians very much," Trump said, appearing on Fox Business on Wednesday. Trump claimed before he took office, Iran was going to "take over" the Middle East, an assertion that may relate to Tehran's support for militant groups in Lebanon, Syria and Yemen. "I don't think (Iran's) leadership is smart ... Iran's going down the tubes," he said on Fox, in response to Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's remarks that the White House is "suffering from mental disability" with "no sane person" in charge. Under terms of the nuclear deal negotiated in 2015 under the administration for former President Barack Obama, Iran agreed to have less than 300 kilograms (661 pounds) of uranium enriched to a maximum of 3.67%. Iran has stuck to those terms, according to repeated verifications by the United Nation's nuclear watchdog. Before the deal, Iran enriched uranium as high as 20%, close to weapons-grade levels. "The deadline of the Atomic Energy Organization for passing the production of enriched uranium from the 300 kilogram border will end tomorrow," said Kamalvandi. Iran has long insisted that its nuclear program is intended for peaceful, civilian purposes only, although that has been met with skepticism in world capitals. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Iran to speed up enrichment of uranium amid faltering nuclear deal


Weekend Trips to Take This Summer in Every State. You probably don't live far away from a place that makes for the perfect summer getaway Weekend Trips to Take This Summer in Every State People often seem to struggle with setting aside time for a full vacation in the summer. But even if a longer trip is out of the question, travelers can still take advantage of a relaxing or adventurous weekend getaway without leaving their home state. Here we round up the best short-but-sweet trip to take in each state during the year's warmest months. Alabama: Mentone Mentone is a picturesque little mountain town atop Lookout Mountain in northeastern Alabama . The views are absolutely stunning. Desoto Falls, a 104-foot cascade that drops into a wide bright green pool, is one of the top attractions. Pick up handmade arts and crafts at the Log Cabin Craft Village and eat tomato pie or strawberry pasta at Wildflower Cafe . Summer camps with horseback riding, archery, boating, swimming , craft making and rock climbing are popular among kids. Alaska: Girdwood Girdwood was originally called Glacier City because of the two giant snow summits nearby. If you ever want to go glacier hiking, this small town near Anchorage should be on your list. Kenai Fjords National Park is nearby, with its opportunities for whale watching and icebergs and glaciers that are majestic all year round. Complete the strenuous Harding Icefield Trail and you'll have bragging rights for life. Visit the historic Crow Creek Mine, hop on the Alaska Railroad, and eat delicious fresh seafood . Arizona: Mesa Not many would expect to find sizable bodies of water in the middle of desert-like terrain , which is why Arizona is commonly overlooked as a destination for lake vacations . However, Mesa shares a border with the Tonto National Forest, which is home to Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake and Apache Lake. Visitors here can enjoy all sorts of water activities like wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and even a more typical beach experience along the sandy shores of Jones Beach at Saguaro Lake. An earlier version of this slideshow depicted Mesa, Arizona, with a photo of Monument Valley because of an editor's error. It was replaced with an accurate photo on May 30. Arkansas: Mountain View This is where you go if you want to experience traditional music and see folkways preserved in Arkansas . Mountain View is all about music   it's been home to the Arkansas Folk Festival since the 1960s, and it's not unusual during summer evenings to hear locals and visitors playing instruments outside near the town square. Mountain View is also home to the Ozark Folk Center and the Arkansas Craft Guild. California: Santa Catalina Island Santa Catalina Island is a summer hotspot for Los Angeles locals who need a break from the city. Check out the zip line tour, set sail on a glass-bottom boat or hit the beach and rent equipment for water activities like diving, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. At only an hour away by ferry (or 15 minutes via helicopter), you'll be enjoying this Pacific paradise in no time. Colorado: Telluride A whole new world opens up in Telluride when the snow melts away and the ski adventures are over. Music is just one reason why   the Telluride Bluegrass Festival attracts thousands of visitors every year. The Victorian-era mining town in Colorado 's San Juan Mountains is a favorite of cyclists and hikers. Backpacking and camping are great ways to explore this stretch of the Rockies, too, and visitors can also try whitewater rafting down the Gunnison River or horseback riding on scenic trails. Kids will love the skate parks, swimming pool facilities and hot air balloon rides . Connecticut: Mystic This is one of the most romantic cities in the country . For authentic New England charm between New York and Boston, consider visiting the relaxed but also fairly well-known vacation destination of Mystic, Connecticut . Mystic Seaport, the nation's leading maritime museum, is a must-see. Visitors love to explore the historical artifacts in this museum, which include old sailing ships and a reconstructed shoreline settlement from the 1800s. Even outside the museum, Mystic is a beautiful coastal town that lacks annoying crowds and the hustle and bustle of the big city. Delaware: Rehoboth Beach This small town has a lot to offer, especially in the summer when its calm shores welcome thousands of tourists . Take your significant other on a date and remember what it's like to be a kid at the water park and mini-golf course at Jungle Jim's. Lined with diverse shops, restaurants and amusements, the boardwalk is a fun destination as well. Many love it for its amazing food and various sweet treats , too. Hop on over to the nearby Dewey Beach for some skimboarding lessons. Florida: Sanibel Island Known as one of the most unique barrier islands in the world, Sanibel Island has won awards for being the best shelling beach in Florida . It's a beautiful destination for a wedding and a great place for fishing, shelling and bird watching. Bonus: Pets are allowed but they must be leashed. Avid golfers will find more than 70 scenic courses. Boating, kayaking and water-skiing are very popular, and there are great spots for adventurous anglers hoping to reel in a fish they haven't seen before. Georgia: Tybee Island Just miles from historic Savannah , Georgia , at the mouth of the Savannah River is Tybee Island, a favorite beach for residents of an visitors to the charming Southern city. Tybee Island's hotels offer excellent accommodations , and a variety of exciting recreational activities are available. In addition to sunbathing, walking, biking , sailing and fishing, visitors will find cultural events scheduled almost every day. Hawaii: Maui Maui offers the best of both worlds; a laid back atmosphere but also extreme adventure. The island is famous for incredible surf spots with awesome breaks and good-sized waves. Hawaii 's second largest island is covered with Hawaii's rich flora and fauna, as well as geological wonders like amazing waterfalls , sandy shores lined with palm trees and, of course, volcanic landscapes. Idaho: Sandpoint Located on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille in the Idaho Panhandle, Sandpoint's beauty is known far and wide. The 150-square mile lake is great for fishing, kayaking and boating, and the charming town is the county seat of Bonner County Nearby Silverwood is the Northwest's largest theme park , and the mountains just outside the town offer beautiful views of the lake. The area is an outdoor playground, with everything from rock climbing to golfing on offer. Illinois: Starved Rock State Park Just an hour and a half west of Chicago, Starved Rock State Park attracts around 2 million visitors each year to view the sandstone-walled canyons on the south bank of the Illinois River. This geology is highly unusual for the Central Plains, and many of the park's trails lead to waterfalls that are lush and green in summer. Those who've had their fill of nature can visit historic mansions and museums in nearby towns like Ottawa and Lasalle. Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park The former Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore became the United States' newest national park in February 2019. Including the neighboring state park, over 17,000 acres along the southern shore of Lake Michigan are designated to protect the beaches, sand dunes and wetlands that draw day-trippers from all over Indiana and nearby Chicago. Visitors can also find shops, activities and accommodations around the visitors center in Porter or in the nearby lake town of Michigan City. Iowa: Okoboji The town of Okoboji in northern Iowa sits on the shores of two glacier-carved lakes , East and West Lake Okoboji, and not far from Spirit Lake, which stretches to the Minnesota border. The area is a popular destination for all kinds of water sports , and the surrounding nature preserves and wild areas are popular for hiking, fishing and hunting. The other towns around the lake also have attractions ranging from museums to tattoo parlors, and there are several amusement parks to explore . Kansas: The Flint Hills Stretching nearly 50 miles through central Kansas , the Flint Hills Scenic Byway offers panoramic views of gorgeous landscapes and access to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Visitors can also take in historic buildings and museums in the quaint and charming small towns along the roadway, including the Chase County Courthouse, built in 1873, and the Roniger Memorial Museum, which hosts a huge collection of Native American artifacts. Kentucky: Bardstown Bardstown is a major stop on the Bourbon Trail, which is a road trip every whiskey fan should absolutely take . In fact, the town has a trademark on the phrase "Bourbon Capital of the World" and is the host of the official Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a six-day event featuring whiskey , food and entertainment. Louisiana: Natchitoches Founded by French explorers in 1714, four years before New Orleans, Natchitoches is the oldest permanent European settlement in Louisiana, and the Natchitoches Historic District includes some buildings that date back to the 18th century. The town also hosts the state's oldest general store, founded in 1863, and it served as the setting for the 1989 film "Steel Magnolias." Weekend visitors have plenty of options for accommodations, as Natchitoches is home to some of the best bed-and-breakfasts in the state . Maine: Acadia National Park Maine's Mount Desert Island has a year-round population of only around 10,000, but it hosts millions of visitors each year who come to see the stunning, rugged landscapes of Acadia National Park . This national park is one of the best spots to paddle the U.S. coastline , and visitors can also hike, camp and view gorgeous sunrises over the Atlantic. Those looking for more solitude can find more secluded parts of the park across the bay on the Schoodic Peninsula. Maryland: Ocean City Plan a summer weekend getaway in Ocean City, Maryland . Spend quality time with family listening to live music, playing mini golf, riding bikes and participating in watersports. Walk along the Ocean City Boardwalk; rent a boat for the day and go jet skiing on the ocean . If you're looking for even more fun for the kids, visit the Pirate Adventures of Ocean City, Baja Amusements, the Candy Kitchen and the Bahia Marina. Massachusetts: Nantucket Just a short ferry ride from Cape Cod, this small and beautiful island is perfect for couples. This secluded 30-mile island is a hot spot for the rich and famous during summer months. Just walking around makes you feel like you are living in a fairytale. Many lodgings are pet friendly , too. Tip: Did you know that Nantucket is one of New England 's top surfing destinations , especially for beginners ? Michigan: Mackinac Island Voted a "Top 10 U.S. Island" by Trip Advisor, Mackinac is a trip back in time. For one, there are no cars allowed, so visitors explore this Victorian treasure on bikes, on horseback or by carriage. The people of this island work to preserve its quaintness and beauty, so most of the land remains covered with peaceful woods. Visitors can see historic forts and reenactments and stroll through quiet streets enjoying the island's famous fudge. Minnesota: Grand Marais Grand Marais, located on a tranquil stretch between Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains, is the country's coolest small town , according to Budget Travel Magazine. This friendly harbor village is home to a renowned artists' colony that's been going strong since 1947; traditional crafting is also highlighted at the North House Folk School. Biking , kayaking and fishing are popular activities. You may even see the northern lights from the lighthouse. Mississippi: The Barrier Islands There are six barrier islands along Mississippi 's Gulf Coast: Cat Island, Ship Island, Deer Island, Horn Island, Round Island and Petit Bois Island. They offer miles of pristine beaches and rich environments for people who love to spend time in nature or camp in unique places. Ship Island offers the most history of all the islands with seasonal fort tours focused on its incredible past. Horn Island is the locals' favorite. This is where you go to see alligators, pelicans and other wildlife. Missouri: Kansas City Known for its jazz heritage and incredible barbecue, Kansas City, Missouri , a somewhat underappreciated city , is not only a cheap weekend getaway but an exciting one, too. This is the perfect family-friendly destination. Take the kids to the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, enjoy Free Friday Night Flicks at Crown Center, view tons of wildlife in William M. Klein Park and explore nature at the Lakeside Nature Center. Be sure to make time for a Boulevard Brewing tour; taste drinks you can't get elsewhere. Montana: Bigfork From fishing charters and farmers markets to horseback riding and countless water sports, Bigfork, located on the shore of Flathead Lake, boasts big adventures among some of the most stunning landscapes in Montana . In addition to superb opportunities for lakeside recreation, Bigfork is known for hosting fun summertime concert series and art festivals. Nebraska: Niobrara National Scenic River The Niobrara National Scenic River and the surrounding area offer a wealth of recreation and vacation opportunities. Take in the scenery by canoe, kayak or tube on the river or explore surrounding communities. The western third of the designated scenic river area is home to over 90 waterfalls   the highest is Smith Falls, which cascades 70 feet. Nevada: Lake Tahoe Lake Tahoe is one of the highest (and best preserved) alpine lakes in the country . The area is a haven for outdoor recreation. Just a short ride from Sacramento, San Francisco and Reno, Lake Tahoe is easily accessible for a long weekend trip, but the natural surroundings will have you feeling like you're hundreds of miles away from the city. This pristine outdoor paradise straddling the California - Nevada border is predictably the perfect place to learn to stand-up paddle boarding. New Hampshire: Portsmouth Portsmouth prides itself on being one of the nation's oldest cities   it's existed since 1623. The history, the shopping, the harbor and the food are just a few reasons why people love Portsmouth. The city is near the mouth of the Piscataqua River near Maine . Portsmouth regularly earns a place on "best places to live" lists, which makes it a great place to visit as well. Check out lobster tours , whale watching, deep sea fishing and the historic Isles of Shoals. New Jersey: Cape May This beautiful small town is just a couple of hours away from chaotic New York City . Cape May is very popular in the summer, but it has something to offer all year round . Go on romantic walks along large stretches of pristine sand, and see gorgeous Victorian buildings to see why the city is designated as a National Historic Landmark. The Willow Creek Winery alone is worth the trip. New Mexico: Taos This far-out mountain town   an underrated adventure destination for the summer   is unlike any other place on Earth. Bordered on three sides by the towering red peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos is positioned in a high desert valley and is one of the few places that's preserved its native culture, art scene and love for the great outdoors. If you're feeling adventurous, climb the tallest mountain in New Mexico   Wheeler Peak   or if you're a skilled paddler, take on the Taos Box section of the Rio Grande. New York: Lake Placid Lake Placid is nestled in the Adirondack Mountains. It has a rich winter sports history, but it's also really fun to visit in the summer. The Olympic Center   site of the Miracle on Ice in 1980   is open for figure skaters and hockey players to use.Many nearby waterways are perfect for paddling   whether that be by canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard . Hiking is the most popular activity when it gets warm, with trails for every skill level . Take a paddleboat around Mirror Lake, watch a concert at Mid's Park and forget about the rest of the world for a while in one of many spectacular spas . North Carolina: Outer Banks Visit the Outer Banks before the barrier islands disappear because of climate change . This gorgeous destination is one of the best non-Disney places to take kids . The 200-mile-long stretch of picturesque barrier islands is perfect for camping . The Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects a 70-mile span of the most remote islands, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the mellow Pamlico Sound on the other, where many people go kayaking and kiteboarding. North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park Theodore Roosevelt National Park (one of the nation's most underrated national parks ) has an abundance of a diverse wildlife, including feral horses, prairie dogs, snakes and lizards. Participate in many ranger programs or camp under the stars in the North Dakota Badlands or go hiking and horseback riding during the day. The park combines colorful terrain and riparian habitat along the Little Missouri River. The auto-tour route is very nice for casual visitors. Ohio: Put-in-Bay This island in Lake Erie offers entertainment, history and vacation appeal during the summer season . One of the best known attractions is the Antique Car Museum, which showcases a collection of Model T Fords and vintage snowmobiles. Watch them in a parade every Sunday afternoon. South Bass Island is home to the world's largest geode, called the Crystal Cave , on the grounds of Heineman's Winery, which has been making wine on the island for more than a century. Oklahoma: Turner Falls Park This is a quick getaway for everyone living in Oklahoma and nearby states. People go for the natural swimming areas, wading area, sandy beaches , bath houses, picnic sites , water slides, explore-able caves and even a "castle" built in the 1930s out of native stone. The 77-foot waterfall and cold refreshing streams are incredibly relaxing. There are plenty of hiking trails , camp sites and cabin rentals. Oregon: Crater Lake Crater Lake, formed thousands of years ago from the collapse of a volcano, is famous for its clear blue waters. Summertime visitors can go hiking , swimming , fishing and camping. They can also take boat and trolley tours, go on adventures guided by rangers, explore old-growth forests and wildflower meadows. Climb mountains for stunning views or hike down to the lakeshore itself. For a longer trek, try a backpacking trip on the Pacific Crest Trail. Pennsylvania: Bucks County If you're looking for the ultimate contrast, leave the bustling city of Philadelphia for the down-home charm of Bucks County, Pennsylvania . Wander through antique shops, take a ride on a hot air balloon or travel by horse through Nockamixon State Park   and don't forget to take a few photos of the covered bridges. An hourlong drive will get you there, or you could tackle the 45-mile trip by bike. Rhode Island: Little Compton This is one of the most charming little New England towns you can stay in . While there are only a few 17th-century structures still standing (these include the Wilbor House and Peabody House), most others are from the 18th and 19th century . Little Compton is home to Rhode Island 's only official "town common," listed in the National Register of Historic Places. South Carolina: Seneca Lake Keowee is a man-made reservoir, but everything there feels as natural as it can be; the lake covers almost 30 square miles and boasts 350 miles of shoreline, much of it undeveloped. Add the fact that the lake is at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you've got some of the most scenic views in the region. Camp in the South Cove County Park, where you can launch your boat, play tennis and hang out under pavilions. Go fishing or see why paddle sports are so fun; and visit the beer station at the end of the day for an incredibly diverse brew selection. South Dakota: Sioux Falls This is definitely an under-the-radar city that more people should visit, and many of its activities are highly inexpensive . This includes free Moonlight Movies in Fawick Park on Saturday nights, cheap bike rides along the Big Sioux River Greenway and free kid-friendly performances at the theater in McKennan Park. Purchase an all-day pass for the Sioux Falls Trolley for just $1 per person. Tennessee: Nashville Tourists who want to have an awesome weekend complete with incredible food and even better music on a modest budget should consider Nashville. There is free music seemingly everywhere, and the city hosts tons of cultural attractions that will entertain you through the weekend. Listen to performers at the famous Bluebird Café, visit the Tennessee Agricultural Museum, watch concerts by the Nashville Symphony and take a stroll along the Music City Walk of Fame   all for free. Take a guided tour of all the food and drink hotspots with Walk Eat Nashville or take your adult friends to whiskey tastings at a distillery. Texas: Galveston Ditch the lights of the city for lights on the pier and sand beneath your toes. Galveston, Texas , has 32 miles of beaches, a pier full of attractions and plenty of festivals and concerts, making this a great summer destination that's only an hour away from Houston. There is plenty to do if you are into "spooky" travel. Galveston is one of the most haunted cities in America . Utah: Park City Visitors often flock here in the winter , but Park City is amazing in the summer too. Ride up the mountain for a thrill on the alpine slide (one of the longest in the world), ride the alpine coaster or fly through the air on zip lines. Ogle the mountains on bike or by foot, or head to the public Park City Golf Club. Watch Olympic prospects train at Utah Olympic Park and revel in one of many arts and music festivals happening all summer long. Vermont: Stowe If you are looking for a low-key getaway with outdoor fun, head to Stowe, a charming small town seated in a valley between Green Mountain peaks. Hike to a beautiful waterfall with swimming holes or wade in local rivers and fly fish. Drive the back roads to Mount Mansfield for gorgeous views or go on a canoe trip to Boyden Valley Winery. Long hiking and biking trails will keep you active . Virginia: Roanoke The "Star City of the South" is better known as the recreational and cultural gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains. From the many museums and award-winning wineries to Dixie Caverns and popular craft breweries , there is no shortage of things to do in town. Venture farther outdoors to experience top-tier fishing, paddling and biking among the stunning mountains. Washington: Chelan This gorgeous lake town known for averaging an astonishing 300 days of sunshine per year. Adrenaline junkies love Chelan for its access to thrilling activities like zip lining, parasailing and skydiving . In addition to incredible scenery and a seemingly infinite amount of things to do outside, the area is surrounded by more than 20 wineries and was dubbed an official American Viticultural Area (or designated wine grape-growing region) in 2009. West Virginia: Berkeley Springs Berkeley Springs was originally known as Bath. It's famous for the abundance of bathhouses due to the many natural springs flowing through town. Berkeley Springs State Park, in the center of the historic spa town, is a unique natural playground that kids love. Adults can enjoy a healing and relaxing dip in the park's heated Roman baths, and George Washington's Bath Tub is a children's favorite. There are free summer concerts every Saturday afternoon from July through August. Wisconsin: Bayfield Bayfield is a charming harbor town. It is the gateway to the spectacular Apostle Islands National Lakeshore   22 gem-like coastal islands with lighthouses, sea caves, hiking trails , campgrounds, blue-water sailing and some of the best kayaking on the planet. Summertime fills this Lake Superior port with sailboats, kayaks and charter fishing boats. Visit the maritime museum, eclectic retail shops, Victorian bed and breakfasts and golf courses with remarkable views. Wyoming: Rock Springs Compared to more popular destinations in Wyoming like Jackson Hole or Grand Teton, Rock Springs   known as the "gateway to the Flaming Gorge Reservoir"   is something of a hidden gem. Flaming Gorge is celebrated for its serene tranquility and is also considered one of the best lakes for cold-water fishing in the entire country. If fishing isn't your thing, partake in any of many exciting water sports like tubing or kayaking. While all these places are fantastic short-term vacation spots for U.S. traveleres, there's a lot to see in one particular place across the pond. If you ever get to travel the globe, make sure to visit the most beautiful country in the world, according to travelers . More from The Active Times: The 75 Top RV Parks in America With the Most Amenities 25 Things Your Flight Attendant Won't Tell You 50 Hotels Totally Worth the Splurge The 76 Most Charming Hotels in America Insanely Affordable Summer Vacations for 2019


A new report says the Twin Cities housing market is on track to be as expensive as places like Seattle and Denver. The Family Housing Fund, a Minneapolis nonprofit, published the report this week, which shows the seven county Twin Cities region has a serious shortage of all types of housing, including rentals. The report says that the Twin Cities is expected to add more than 368,000 new jobs by 2038. In order to house the workers who will fill those positions, the area needs to add 176,710 new housing units. Based on housing production from 2012-2017, the report estimates that the Twin Cities will have a shortage of 3,495 housing units each year. "We're sounding an alarm that if, in fact, we don't do anything different, our future looks really tough for housing, worse than it is already," said Ellen Sahli, President of the Family Housing Fund. The need is especially great for affordable housing. Sahli says the housing in the metro needs to match the workforce. The report says that in order to match demand, half of the rental units added should be below $1,250 a month, and 80 percent of the homes should be priced under $350,000. Right now, Sahli says the housing stock is too expensive. "We absolutely are losing that affordability factor," she said, "We could start looking more like Seattle, Denver, and any of the high cost cities, where it is very clear that their housing crisis is at any alarming level." Sahli says after the recession housing production across the country dropped and in the Twin Cities it hasn't returned to pre-recession levels. A big concern is the problem the shortage could create for businesses in the metro, which could have trouble recruiting if their recruits can't find homes. "Businesses have talked about this as a real, live issue that is impacting where they grow and where they expand," Sahli said.


Curious just how far your dollar goes in Saint Paul? We've rounded up the latest rental listings via rental sites Zumper and Apartment Guide to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to hunting down housing in Saint Paul if you've got a budget of $1,400/month. Read on for the listings. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 111 E. Kellogg Blvd. (Downtown) Listed at $1,304/month, this 600-square-foot studio apartment is located at 111 E. Kellogg Blvd. In the unit, you can anticipate a balcony, in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet. The building offers assigned parking. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are allowed on this property. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. According to Walk Score's assessment, this location is quite walkable, is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here .) 401 N. Sibley St. (Downtown) Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence over at 401 N. Sibley St. It's listed for $1,309/month for its 678 square feet. Look for air conditioning, a dishwasher, in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet in the unit. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are welcome on this property. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is extremely walkable, is very bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here .) 300 Fourth St. East (Downtown) Here's a 705-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom spot at 300 Fourth St. East that's going for $1,310/month. The residence includes hardwood flooring, a renovated kitchen and stainless steel appliances. Both cats and dogs are allowed in this home. According to Walk Score's assessment, the surrounding area is friendly for those on foot, is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options. (See the full listing here .) 808 Berry St. (St. Anthony) Next, check out this 668-square-foot studio apartment that's located at 808 Berry St. It's listed for $1,315/month. In the building, you'll get assigned parking. In the residence, expect to see a balcony, a dishwasher and a walk-in closet. Pet lovers are in luck: Cats and dogs are welcome. Walk Score indicates that the area around this address is very walkable, is easy to get around on a bicycle and has good transit options. (Check out the complete listing here .) 740 Victoria St. South (West 7th) Located at 740 Victoria St. South, here's a 623-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment that's listed for $1,327/month. The unit has a dishwasher, hardwood flooring and granite countertops. The building has a fitness center. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are welcome. Be prepared for a $250 pet fee. According to Walk Score, this location is somewhat walkable, is very bikeable and has some transit options. (Take a gander at the complete listing here .) Working with a tight budget? Here are the cheapest rentals recently listed in Saint Paul . This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expected Terrell Suggs to stay in Baltimore after what he describes as an offer close to the one the Cardinals submitted. But the 17th-year veteran bolted early in free agency. While Bisciotti did not specify how close the Ravens came to matching the one-year, $7M proposal the Cardinals made, the longtime owner anticipated being able to retain Suggs with a hometown discount. "Until the very minute Terrell took Arizona's deal, I thought he would take less to stay here," Bisciotti said, via ESPN.com's Jamison Hensley ( on Twitter ). "I was wrong. I wished him well." Just before Suggs' defection, he and the Ravens did not appear to be close on terms . The franchise's all-time sack king played for $6.95M in 2018, the final season of his four-year, $20M deal. Suggs initially leaned toward re-signing with the Ravens . However, Suggs said Ozzie Newsome stepping away from his GM post, and Baltimore's decisions on other veteran defensive stalwarts, swayed him. Suggs played high school and college football in Arizona, helping to explain the choice to leave a division champion for the team that finished with 2018's worst record. The Ravens also lost Za'Darius Smith , who signed a $16.5M-AAV Packers deal, but still have Matt Judon and brought in Pernell McPhee and Shane Ray after the draft. Third-round pick Jaylon Ferguson also figures to factor into Baltimore's pass rush, as will 2017 third-rounder Tim Williams . Bisciotti called Williams a situational pass rusher, Hensley adds ( via Twitter ). Williams played 120 snaps last season.


July 4 (Reuters) - A powerful earthquake of magnitude 6.4 struck Southern California near the city of Ridgecrest, some 200 miles (320 km) northeast of Los Angeles, the U.S. Geological Survey said on Thursday. The USGS said the quake, initially reported as a magnitude 6.6, was very shallow - only 5.4 miles (8.7 km) - which would have amplified its effect. The temblor, which was felt as far as Los Angeles, was quickly followed by several smaller aftershocks in the area. There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage. California, is on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, and is prone to earthquakes. Authorities in the Ridgecrest area could not be reached immediately for comment. (Reporting by Sandra Maler in Washington; editing by Jonathan Oatis, Frank McGurty and Sandra Maler)


CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico  A pregnant Mexican woman suffering complications was told by immigration officers that they couldn't process her family's asylum claim at the U.S. border on Saturday before a U.S. senator intervened to persuade the officers to take the woman to a Texas hospital. While visiting a migrant shelter Saturday, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) grew concerned about a woman who was 38 weeks pregnant and suffering from preeclampsia and other complications. The senator and his staff decided to take the woman, her husband and 3-year-old son to a port of entry to make their asylum claim. Subscribe to the Post Most newsletter: Today's most popular stories on The Washington Post At the Paso del Norte Bridge linking Juárez and El Paso, the family approached two Customs and Border Protection officers, presented their identification and said they wanted to request asylum. They then heard the words that tens of thousands of asylum seekers have been told for more than a year at the U.S.-Mexico border: "We're full," a CBP officer told them. Wyden, who had followed behind the family along with an entourage of staff members and friends from Oregon, then stepped forward and identified himself. He told the officers that Mexicans are exempt from the "metering" program CBP has used to strictly control the number of people allowed to request asylum at ports of entry. He also told the officers the woman was late term in her pregnancy and suffering complications. The officers called a supervisor, who arrived minutes later, and allowed the family to go to the port of entry to make their asylum claim. Wyden was clearly shaken by his two-day visit to the border, which included a tour of CBP holding cells and an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility. At the Juárez shelter, he met a 3-year-old boy who had stopped speaking after being held with his father by the U.S. Border Patrol and then sent back to Mexico. Wyden spoke with families who were required to stay in Mexico for six months before their first U.S. immigration court hearing. "These policies that I've seen are not what America is about. And in fact what we saw with respect to the woman who is here today is just a blatant violation of U.S. law," Wyden said, referring to the pregnant woman. He said he believed the CBP agents would have turned away the family if he had not intervened, a sentiment echoed by Taylor Levy, an El Paso immigration attorney who took Wyden and his staff to Juárez. "I feel very confident that if the family had tried to present alone, they would not have been allowed in," Levy said. A CBP spokesman said the officer would not have told the family that asylum processing was at capacity if they had explained that they were Mexican and that the mother was pregnant. However, the family gave the officer, whose uniform identified his last name as Loya, a folder that contained their Mexican birth certificates and identification. Shaw Drake, the policy director for the American Civil Liberties Union Border Rights Center in El Paso, said he asked the officer afterward if the family had identified themselves as Mexican asylum seekers, and the officer said they had. Wyden was also critical of a CBP officer who told the senator's staff they were not allowed to take photos or video on the bridge. The ACLU's Drake said the officer, whose name tag identified him as Castro, was wrong, and he told the staff they could continue to record. "Certainly it looked like it had the potential for not going well. The ACLU folks talked about their legal rights to be able to record the [processing], and one of the officers said, 'We have a situation,' " Wyden said. "So having done this for a while, those are the kinds of things that concern you and might suggest it's not going well." Metering is used as a way to cap the number of people allowed to apply for asylum at ports of entry. Mexicans are supposed to be exempt from metering under U.S. asylum laws, Drake said. He said he had seen CBP agents turning back Mexican asylum seekers before. "If someone arrives on our border and expresses a fear of return to their home country, the government is barred from returning that person to their home country until a process has been followed to determine whether they have the right to remain in the United States as an asylee or a refugee," he said. "And so turning a Mexican away at the border, back into Mexico, is directly returning an asylum seeker to the country from which they're fleeing persecution with no process to determine whether they have a fear of returning to that country." Wyden met the family, who asked not to be identified, at a shelter that houses about 250 migrants in Juárez. They were sharing a small room with 11 other migrants. They said they were from the Mexican state of Guerrero and wanted to seek asylum because they feared violence from drug cartels and their government allies. "There's a lot of insecurity, and the government is involved and corrupted with the cartels. There's just no way to survive," the father told Wyden. The family showed Wyden their number for the metering list, which is kept by the Chihuahua State Population Council in Juárez. The number 17,647 was handwritten on a slip of paper. More than 5,000 people were ahead of them on the list, meaning they faced a four- or five-month wait before being allowed to come to a U.S. port of entry and seek asylum. The family said they had not previously gone to a port of entry because they thought they had to get on the metering list. Lauren Herbert, an Oregon pediatrician who accompanied Wyden on the border tour, said she became concerned when talking to the mother. "She had a previous diagnosis of preeclampsia, which already places her at high risk," Herbert said after the family crossed the border. "And then she described two days of leaking fluid," which could indicate a ruptured membrane that threatened the life of mother and unborn child. "This is a high-risk pregnancy, and she needs to be seen by a doctor. Now." After Wyden met the woman and her family, Levy, the immigration attorney, and Drake urged the senator to push CBP to get the woman to a hospital as soon as possible. "The U.S. government keeps saying that they don't put Mexicans on the metering list and that Mexicans will always be accepted because they're fleeing Mexico," Levy said. She suggested Wyden approach the border officers along with an ACLU representative and lawyers. "That's what we're going to do," Wyden said. About an hour later, the family was undergoing initial processing by CBP to begin their asylum claim. CBP officials told Wyden that the mother would quickly be taken to a hospital for evaluation. Their status was not clear Saturday night. Ian Philabaum, program director for the legal group Innovation Law Lab, said the family's plight would have been much different without Wyden's assistance. "If not for the presence of a U.S. senator, another asylum seeker would have been sent back to dangerous conditions in Mexico, the same country she is fleeing, and despite the fact that she is pregnant and in dire need of medical attention," said Philabaum, who accompanied Wyden on his two-day border tour. national@washpost.com


Minneapolis is due to turn warm this coming week, according to drone-powered weather forecasting service Saildrone . Temperatures will make way for warmer weather from Friday to Monday, with a high of 79 degrees on Friday. Light rainfall is also in store tomorrow. Tomorrow's forecast shows the highest chance of rain at 94%, while the most rainfall is predicted on Monday at 0.55 inches. Skies will be mostly cloudy today and partly cloudy on Saturday. Winds are expected to reach a modest high of 14 mph today, but will grow calmer beginning on Sunday. This story was created automatically using Saildrone's local weather forecast data, then reviewed by an editor. We also incorporate historic weather data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Willian is a player whose very existence at Chelsea sparks a divisive debate among a fanbase that, let's be honest, is easily divided these days. The two principal factions seem to be the 'Yer Das' and the still-stubbornly-fighting-Sarristas, and believe me, it can get feisty. But, ironically, Willian seems to be an anomaly in this dissonance, in that the two sides argue mainly about how much they want to be rid of him. Of course, there are also backers on both sides of the aisle, but these days they seem few and far between, leaving an underappreciated-but-inconsistent Brazilian scapegoat in the middle of a maelstrom of hate. Firstly, let's be clear about one thing: Willian has been a loyal servant of the club in his six years at Stamford Bridge. He has won the club's Player of the Year award once, the Player's Player of the Year twice and Goal of the Season once, all in contribution to two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup and one Europa League. He has notched 52 goals and 53 assists in that time. That's a commendable output. Now, you could smear that 2015/16 Player of the Year award with 'best-of-a-bad-bunch' insignificance - this was the season where Jose Mourinho completed his best third season meltdown yet and the Blues finished a dispiriting 10th - but you could also say that, in a year where everyone seemed to down tools, Willian was the one player who stood firm. It's not easy to maintain performance levels when everyone else around you is flicking through the 'Havaianas' website, searching for their summer clobber even though it's still December, and his persistence in doing so should be noted. To be perfectly honest, I've never understood the vitriol that he evokes in people. But that doesn't mean he should stay. Because, with all that said, winning Player of the Year once is not a reason to keep someone around indefinitely - hell, Eden Hazard broke the club's record with four wins and he's upped and left. Neither is the renovations you may or may not have provoked in the club's trophy cabinet. Form, commitment, 'pashun' and promise should be the key identifiers as to whether or not you deserve to stay at a club and, unfortunately, the 30-year-old no longer fits the bill in at least two of those categories (you decide which). To be fair, nor did he last summer when Barcelona offered £60m, or in January when they offered £55m, but I guess that's by the by at this point. Don't get me wrong, at his peak, Willian was appointment viewing for Blues fans, with his ability to go from 0-60 with a ball at his feet honestly second to none in my Stamford Bridge lifetime. That one-step explosiveness was his trademark, and he used it to devastating effect... at times. These times just never came frequently enough, especially when it mattered. I often wonder what would we think of him if those three shots that struck the woodwork in the 2018 last 16 Champions League tie against Barcelona had snuck inside the post. Would those achievements on that stage, presuming they led to a Chelsea triumph, transcend all the inconsistencies? Probably. ✍ "It will be tough, as both teams will want to finish top of the group." @JordanNobbs8 spoke to us ahead of #ENG vs #JPN in the #FIFAWWC https://t.co/BXkypjqhpR   90min (@90min_Football) June 18, 2019 The thing is, they didn't, which leaves his signature moments consigned to pseudo-important league and cup wins. Now, the elephant in the room here, the one that's emphatically blocking the Brazilian's exit door, preventing the club from accepting £35m bids from both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, is the fact that, going into the 2018/19 season, the Blues appear to have just three fully-fit wingers, one of them being the man in question. The other two are a soon-to-be-32-year-old Pedro Rodriguez and a fresh-off-the-Bundesligan-boat Christian Pulisic. Huh. So, sure, a wise head (but not too wise to be completely past it) wouldn't be the worst thing in the world, maybe. But neither would £35m for a player who will be 31 come the start of the season and could leave on a free at the end. Besides, it's not like the club are short of potential stopgaps out wide while the God Callum Hudson-Odoi continues his recovery. I'm sure Mason Mount, Michy Batshuayi and Tammy Abraham would all relish the chance to be chucked out there. Hell, one of them might even succeed. This is all before you consider the formation changes that will come with the likely arrival of Frank Lampard. At Derby, Lampard frequently utilised a 4-3-1-2 formation that, surprise, surprise, had no out and out wingers in sight, with *KLAXON* Mount often used in the right of that midfield three to, you know, provide the width. The point is, this new generation has to be ushered in. And, yes, at the moment, Willian is a better option on the flanks than any of those mentioned, but will he be so in a year's time? And, if this season is practically a write-off already, isn't now the time (for the first time under Roman Abramovich) for long-term thinking to trump short-term gains? I think so.


We are still well over a month away from the start of training camp, but in the NFL, there is no offseason. For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it's been a busy year so far, as they said goodbye to Dirk Koetter and brought in two-time NFL Coach of the Year Bruce Arians to replace him. The reason for bringing in Arians - the alleged quarterback guru - was all too obvious, as the Bucs are desperate to make Jameis Winston the franchise quarterback they thought they were getting when they drafted him first overall in 2015. And, according to NFL Nation , how Arians works his magic on Winston is the main story of the Bucs' 2019 season, as is him trying to get this team out of the NFL doldrums. "Can Arians turn around a franchise that has the second-longest playoff drought in the league (11 seasons) while galvanizing a fan base that has seen the Bucs compile the NFL's third-worst record and seven double-digit loss seasons the past decade?" It's no easy task turning around a franchise that's only known losing over the past decade, but Arians made the Arizona Cardinals into Super Bowl contenders with Carson Palmer as his quarterback. Let's hope Winston can rise to the challenge. MORE: LeBron James' son pulled off a chase-down block that looked just like his dad's legendary one Ahead of Finals, Stephen Curry defends Kevin Durant against critics NFL world responds to passing of Packers legend Bart Starr Giants' Alex Tanney excited over Daniel Jones' arrival Damon Harrison tired of repeated contract talks