Raised in West Philadelphia, returning to television streaming TV at least on HBO Max.

Although the precise date hasnt been announced yet, theFresh Prince of Bel-Airreunion special will air on HBOs streaming service next month along with other new additions to HBO Max like the second season ofHis Dark Materials, the season finale of Last Week Tonight,and a special based onBetween the World and Me.Plus older titles joining the service includeEast of Eden,Grumpy Old Men,High Fidelity,The Mask,Menace II Society, and Swingers.

Heres the full list of whats coming to HBO Max in November:

Exact Dates to be Announced:12 Dates Of Christmas, HBO Max Original Series Premiere Colin Quinn & Friends: A Parking Lot Comedy Show, HBO Max Original Special Premiere Crazy, Not Insane, Documentary Premiere (HBO)The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air Reunion Special, HBO Max Original Special PremiereFull Bloom, HBO Max Original Series PremiereI Hate Suzie, HBO Max Original Series PremiereThe Mystery Of DB Cooper, Documentary Premiere (HBO)Sesame Street, Season 51 2020 Valley Of Tears, HBO Max Original Series Premiere Veneno, HBO Max Original Series Premiere

November 1:10,000 BC, 2008 13 Going On 30, 2004 2 Fast 2 Furious, 2003 (HBO) Above The Rim, 1994 All Is Bright, 2013 America, America, 1964 Anchors Aweigh, 1945 Another Cinderella Story, 2008 The Arrangement, 1969 Austin Powers In Goldmember, 2002 Autumn In New York, 2000 (HBO) Baby Doll, 1956 Battleship, 2012 (HBO) Beasts Of The Southern Wild, 2012 (HBO) Billy Madison, 1995 (HBO) Blast From The Past, 1999 Blood Work, 2002 The Bridge Of San Luis Rey, 2005 (HBO) Broadway Danny Rose, 1984 (HBO) The Bucket List, 2007 The Children, 2009 A Christmas Carol, 1938 Chronicle, 2012 (Directors Cut) (HBO) City Island, 2010 (HBO) City Slickers, 1991 (HBO) Clash Of The Titans, 2010 Critical Care, 1997 Cruel Intentions, 1999 (HBO) The Dancer Upstairs, 2003 (HBO)

The Dark Knight, 2008 David Copperfield, 1935 Dead Man Walking, 1995 (HBO) Desperately Seeking Susan, 1985 (HBO) The Devil's Advocate, 1997 Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star, 2003 (HBO) Dolphin Tale, 2011 Dumb And Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd, 2003 The Eagle, 2011 (HBO) East Of Eden, 1955 Eight Legged Freaks, 2002 Elf Pets: Santas Saint Bernards Save Christmas, 2018 The Enforcer, 1976 A Face In The Crowd, 1957 The Fast And The Furious, 2001 (HBO) Femme Fatale, 2002 The Five-Year Engagement, 2012 (Extended Version) (HBO) A Flintstone Christmas, 1977 A Flintstone Family Christmas, 1993 Free Willy, 1993 Friday The 13th, 2009 G.I. Joe: The Rise Of Cobra, 2009 The Gauntlet, 1977 Genius, 2016 (HBO) Get Santa, 2014 Girl In Progress, 2012 Grumpier Old Men, 1995 Grumpy Old Men, 1993 Guys And Dolls, 1955 Hacksaw Ridge, 2016 (HBO) Happy Gilmore, 1996 (HBO) Heidi, 2006 High Fidelity, 2000 (HBO) High Society, 1956 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, 2012 The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies, 2014 The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug, 2013 Hollidaysburg, 2014 House On Haunted Hill, 1999 Ice Age: Continental Drift, 2012 (HBO) Impractical Jokers: Inside Jokes The Iron Giant, 1999 J. Edgar, 2011 Jason Goes To Hell: The Final Friday, 1993 Jason X, 2002 King Kong, 1976 (HBO) The Last King Of Scotland, 2006 (HBO)

The Lego Batman Movie, 2017 The Lego Movie, 2014 The Lego Ninjago Movie, 2014 License To Wed, 2007 Life Stinks, 1991 Linda And The Mockingbirds, 2020 (HBO) Little Man Tate, 1991 (HBO) Looney Tunes: Back In Action, 2003 The Losers, 2010 Lowriders, 2017 (HBO) Made, 2001 (HBO) The Madness Of King George, 1994 (HBO) Magic Mike, 2012 The Magical Wand Chase: A Sesame Street Special, 2017 Magnum Force, 1973 Malibu's Most Wanted, 2003 The Man With The Golden Arm, 1955 The Mask, 1994 Menace II Society, 1993 Miss Julie, 2014 (HBO) Money Talks, 1997 Mr. Nanny, 1993 Music And Lyrics, 2007 Must Love Dogs, 2005 Mystic River, 2003 National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1, 1993 Needful Things, 1993 The Neverending Story, 1984 The Neverending Story II: The Next Chapter, 1991 New York Minute, 2004 Nights In Rodanthe, 2008 Nothing Like The Holidays, 2008 Now And Then, 1995 Ocean's 11, 1960 Old School, 2003 On The Town, 1949 Once Upon A Sesame Street Christmas, Special Premiere A Perfect World, 1993 Pleasantville, 1998 The Pledge, 2001 Popstar, 2005 Practical Magic, 1998 The Prophecy, 1995 (HBO) The Prophecy 2, 1998 (HBO) The Prophecy 3: The Ascent, 2000 (HBO) Prophecy 4: The Uprising, 2005 (HBO) Prophecy 5: The Forsaken, 2005 (HBO) Radio Days, 1987 Red Tails, 2012 (HBO) Rick And Morty, Season Four PremiereThe Right Stuff, 1983 Rock Star, 2001 Rosewood, 1997 Rumor Has It, 2005 Salvador, 1986 (HBO) Scoop, 2006 (HBO) The Sea Of Grass, 1947 The Secret Garden, 1993

Sesame Street, 1969 Sesame Street: Elmo's Playdate, Special PremiereSesame Street's 50th Anniversary Celebration, Special Premiere Sinbad Of The Seven Seas, 1989 (HBO) The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants, 2005 The Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants 2, 2008 Smurfs Christmas Special, 1982 Some Came Running, 1958 Space Cowboys, 2000 Splendor In The Grass, 1961 Sudden Impact, 1983 Summer Catch, 2001 Swingers, 1996 (HBO) Swordfish, 2001 A Tale Of Two Cities, 1935 Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines, 2003 Terminator Salvation, 2009 Terms Of Endearment, 1983 Thief, 1981 (HBO) Thirteen Ghosts, 2001 Tightrope, 1984 The Time Traveler's Wife, 2009 Tis The Season To Be Smurfy, 1987

Titans, Seasons 1 & 2 Torque, 2004 Tower Heist, 2011 (HBO) The Town That Santa Forgot, 1993 Troll, 1986 (HBO) Troll 2, 1990 (HBO) True Crime, 1999 Tweety's High-Flying Adventures, 2000 Twilight Zone: The Movie, 1983 (HBO) Una Semana (HBO) Unaccompanied Minors, 2006 Untamed Heart, 1993 (HBO) Veronica Mars, 2014 A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas, 2011 (Extended Version) (HBO) We Bought A Zoo, 2011 (HBO) When You Wish Upon A Pickle: A Sesame Street Special, 2018 Wild Wild West, 1999 Win A Date With Tad Hamilton!, 2004 (HBO) Witches Of Eastwick, The, 1987 The Wood, 1999 Wyatt Earp, 1994 Yogi Bear's All-Star Comedy Christmas Caper, 1982 Yogis First Christmas, 1980 Young Justice, Seasons 1-3 Zoo Animals (HBO)

November 2:Quadrophenia, 1979 We Are Who We Are, Season Finale (HBO) A Woman Under The Influence, 1974

November 4:Looney Tunes, 1930 - 1969

November 6:Pecado Original (Aka Original Sin) (HBO)

November 7:The Dead Don't Die, 2019 (HBO) The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame 2020 Inductions (HBO)

November 9:Food Wars! Shokugeki No Soma, Season 5 (Subtitled) (Crunchyroll Collection) Industry, Series Premiere (HBO)

November 11:Patria, Season Finale (HBO)

November 12:My Sesame Street Friends, 2020

November 13:De Lo Mio (HBO) Entre Nos: LA Meets NY (HBO)

November 14:Dolittle, 2020 (HBO)

November 15:Last Week Tonight With John Oliver, Season Finale (HBO) Murder On Middle Beach, Docuseries Premiere (HBO)

November 16:His Dark Materials, Season Two Premiere (HBO)

November 20:Porno Para Principiantes (Aka Porno For Newbies) (HBO)

November 21:Between The World And Me, Special Event Premiere (HBO)Real Time with Bill Maher, Season Finale (HBO) Underwater, 2020 (HBO)

November 24:Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel (HBO) Smurfs, Season 4, 1981

November 26:Craftopia: Craft the Halls, HBO Max Special Premiere Craftopia: Merry Craftmas!, HBO Max Special Premiere The Flight Attendant, HBO Max Original Series Premiere Superintelligence, HBO Max Original Film Premiere

November 27:Chateau Vato (HBO) How To With John Wilson, Season Finale (HBO)

November 28:The Call Of The Wild, 2019 (HBO)

November 29:The Undoing, Season Finale (HBO)

Gallery Hilarious Foreign Titles to American Movies:

Read this article:
Everything New on HBO Max in November - ScreenCrush

TBS Orders New Season of Top-Rated Comedy Anthology Series MIRACLE WORKERS

Daniel Radcliffe and Steve Buscemi Brave the Oregon Trail in Series' Third Installment Executive Produced by Broadway Video

LOS ANGELES - OCTOBER 22, 2020 - TBS has ordered a third season of the top-rated anthology comedy series MIRACLE WORKERS, this time transporting cast members Daniel Radcliffe, Steve Buscemi, Geraldine Viswanathan and Karan Soni to the American Old West. The network has tapped Dan Mirk and Robert Padnick to serve as showrunners for the newest installment.

MIRACLE WORKERS debuted in 2018 as the #1 new cable comedy of the season. Hailed by Awards Daily as a "welcome cure for the winter blues," the second and most recent installment MIRACLE WORKERS: DARK AGES currently ranks as a top five cable comedy, reaching 27.5 million viewers across TBS' linear and digital platforms.

Set in the year 1844, the new season of MIRACLE WORKERS will follow an idealistic small-town preacher (Radcliffe) who teams up with a wanted outlaw (Buscemi) and a liberated prairie wife (Viswanathan) to lead a wagon train west on the Oregon Trail across an American landscape which, much like today, is fraught with both promise and peril.

"MIRACLE WORKERS is a perfect example of the fun, escapist humor that we take pride in delivering to our viewers," said Sam Linsky and Adrienne O'Riain, co-heads of scripted original programming for TBS, TNT and truTV. "We can't wait to see how this incredibly dynamic cast and talented group of storytellers hilariously rewrite 19th century history."

"Getting to tell an entirely new story with this ludicrously talented cast each season is a dream come true," said Mirk and Padnick. "We could not be happier that TBS has given us the reins on this unique and special show."

Mirk started his career in comedy as staff writer for The Onion. He has since gone on to write for FXX's "Man Seeking Woman" and Hulu's "Future Man." Mirk was a writer and producer on the first two seasons of MIRACLE WORKERS.

Padnick attended Harvard, where he was president of the Harvard Lampoon. He has written on NBC's "The Office," FXX's "Man Seeking Woman," NBC's "Great News," and Netflix's "Big Mouth." He was also a writer on the first two seasons of "MIRACLE WORKERS." Currently, Padnick serves as an executive producer on TBS' upcoming comedy "Chad."

Created by Simon Rich, MIRACLE WORKERS is executive produced by Lorne Michaels, Andrew Singer and Katy Jenson of Michaels' Broadway Video, along with Radcliffe, Buscemi, Mirk, and Padnick.

About TBS

TBS,a WarnerMedia brand, is a top-rated destination for television among young adults and known for escapist, lean-back entertainment, featuring smart, imaginative stories with heart and comedic edge. From scripted comedy series to late-night shows, game shows, and animated programming, TBS' Originals slate is comprised of some of the most popular shows on cable - "Miracle Workers," "CONAN,""Full Frontal with Samantha Bee,""The Last O.G."and"American Dad!,"as well as the upcoming comedy"Chad." The network's slate of premium unscripted series includes the popular game show"The Misery Index," upcoming reality-competition series "Go-Big Show" and "The Cube" and the revival of fan-favorite "Wipeout." TBS' lineup also includes comedy hits like"Family Guy"and"The Big Bang Theory," classic sitcom favorites"Friends"and"Seinfeld," blockbuster movies, and live event coverage of Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship and "ELEAGUE," WarnerMedia's eSports gaming competition. Viewers can watch shows on the TBS app, available for iOS, Android, Xbox One and other platforms and devices. Website:www.tbs.com

About WarnerMedia

WarnerMedia is a leading media and entertainment company that creates and distributes premium and popular content from a diverse array of talented storytellers and journalists to global audiences through its consumer brands including: HBO, HBO Max, Warner Bros., TNT, TBS, truTV, CNN, DC Entertainment, New Line, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others, as well as Xandr's suite of advanced advertising solutions designed to help to improve advertising for brands, publishers, and consumers.

View post:
Breaking News - TBS Orders New Season of Top-Rated Comedy Anthology Series "Miracle Workers" - The Futon Critic

As wearing masks remains the new normal, why not have the best technology and filtration available, ... [+] even if it is not obvious, as in the versatile Buff Filter Tube.

Face masks, along with hand washing and social distancing, are the best safety protection you have against the coronavirus and risk of contracting COVID-19 in the current pandemic. Wearing a mask also protects the rest of society. The World Health Organization (WHO) puts it bluntly: People wearing masks are protected from getting infected. Masks also prevent onward transmission when worn by a person who is infected, whether they have symptoms or not.

Masks work, the science has shown it, anecdotal evidence is overwhelming, and countries and regions that have higher level of mask usage have had lower infection rates across the board (and vice versa). Just about every documented super spreader event has revolved around failure to wear masks, while potentially disastrous situations like the Missouri hair salon turned out fine because of masks. Consider flying: everyone on planes has to be masked, and infections linked to air travel have remained impressively low after millions of passengers traveled.

The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) just released new guidance on public transportation, stations and airports and its conclusion is a strong recommendation for wearing of masks by passengers. Comments by the CDC include Appropriately worn masks reduce the spread of COVID-19 and Masks are most likely to reduce the spread of COVID-19 when they are widely used by people in public settings, and Broad and routine utilization of masks on our transportation systems will protect Americans. The WHO also stresses masks above most other measures in its latest COVID-19 advice for the public (October 13): Masks are a key measure to suppress the spread of COVID-19 and save lives, and Make wearing a mask a normal part of being around other people, and simply Wear a mask.

Some people have heard the rumor that wearing masks can lead to CO2 intoxication but according to the WHO thats just fake science, FACT: The prolonged use of medical masks when properly worn, DOES NOT cause CO2 intoxication nor oxygen deficiency. You can dislike wearing masks, I think most people do, or you can mistake it for a political issue, but it simply makes no sense to argue with the beneficial results.

In any case, like it or not, it looks like masks are here to stay for the foreseeable future, mandated in most states for shopping and other indoor gatherings, mandated by many municipalities, companies and retailers, as well as on planes. But not all masks are equally effective, and since you are likely going to be wearing one somewhat regularly for the immediate future, you might as well have one that works well.

Back in August I took a look at the masks being produced by the top specialty companies in the outdoor gear and fitness fields, based on the simple premise that their expertise with higher tech performance fabrics, precision fit and manufacturing, and features like comfort and breathability lent their skill set to mask making. Ive continued to use every one of the masks I featured in that piece, and all are still on the market and great choices, with several, including the two models from Kitsbow and the one from Outdoor Research among my personal favorites. But now there even are more options with some added benefits.

Having done a lot of research and having worn masks for long durations during flights for work, during a variety outdoor sports from cycling to hiking, and in hospitals, stores and homes, Ive narrowed down the key differentiators that elevate some masks about others. The first is filtration. All the masks worn by medical workers, from the standard blue or green pleated rectangle to the highly fitted N95 are basically wearable filters with no fabric at all, and that is why they work well. Bandanas and DIY masks made out of t-shirts or pillowcases, or the store-bought simple cloth equivalents, are still far better than nothing, but they are not true filters. So, personally at this point I use only masks with filters, I see no reason not too, and these have become widely available.

When placed in between the layers - such as with a pocket style opening allowing for insertion and removal - you could insert a filter which will make the mask more effective and provide extra protection against allowing viral particles into the air when you talk, cough or breathe, Dr. Ruth L. Bush, associate dean of medical education and a professor at the University of Houston College of Medicine, told TODAY.com. Research has shown that some loosely-woven masks only block 10-20% of particles, but by adding one or more layers of filter material, higher percentages of particles could be blocked.

There are three basic ways you can get high quality filtration in a face mask. One is to go the disposable route like the doctors do. The problem here is a lot of cost over time, a lot of waste, and dubious manufacturing for consumer models. For example, while the KN95 masks many consumers are buying (mostly online) as an alternative to the medical grade N95 versions (which are still in short supply for front line workers) work in theory, in practice many are made in China, infamous for mislabeling and safety shortcuts in manufacturing, and recent studies have shown that the majority simply do not functional as advertised. The most recent major study showed that 60-70% of imported KN95 masks do not filter 95% of aerosol particulates as they are supposed to.

The second but least common strategy is a mask with a permanent filter layer built into it, like the Kitsbow Wake ProTech model, developed by a North Carolina based cycling apparel specialist in partnership with medical professionals at Wake Forest. In general, double or triple layer masks are more effective than a single layer, but this model has four-layer construction, including two internal permanent filtering layers. This no fuss, no muss model is washable, comfortable, comes in several sizes with great coverage and easily adjustable around the head straps, and it is made domestically.

But the most common solution is a fabric mask with a pocket for a disposable paper style filter, some of which are single use and others reusable a certain number of times. Either way, the drawback is that you have to buy and keep extra filters on hand, but these tend to be the most comfortable and breathable solutions, and the disposable filters are highly effective, with many rated at around 99%. These also give you the flexibility to skip the filter when wearing in low risk uses such as a fitness walk around your mostly empty neighborhood to avoid burning through filters.

In addition to some sort of filter, the key elements I look at are fit and comfort, which often go hand in hand. The tailored, more volcano shaped masks that have a pointy top center designed to go around your nose tend to fit more closely and slip less than the basic rectangular models. In fact, while health authorities have made it abundantly clear that masks only work if they fully cover your nose and mouth, Ive already had several distressingly stressful encounters with cashiers or people in airports who have their mask dropping off their nose as we interact, and these have in every case been basic rectangles. Additional features that give you a closer fit (better seal) include an adjustable, bendable nosepiece, multiple sizes, and adjustable ear or head bands.

Finally, more and more better-quality masks are featuring antimicrobial coatings to keep them clean from your own hands, especially on the outside when you pull them up and down and touch them in between hand washing.

Many of the masks Ive tested recently have most or all of these features at affordable prices, combining comfort, breathability and protection. Here are my favorite new additions:

Long before the coronavirus pandemic, HALO used proprietary New Zealand based filtration technology ... [+] to protect users form air pollution and natural disasters.

HALOmask: Long before COVID, people in many parts of the world faced danger from the air they breathed, and the trademarked technology of the HALOmask was conceived in New Zealand more than four years ago, deployed on the streets of Bali when volcanoes erupted in Indonesia, and in Australia when wildfires ravaged the countryside. Maker HALOLIFE uses a proprietary nano filter material made in New Zealand - not China - that has been independently laboratory tested and shown to block harmful airborne particulates, including smoke, dust, exhaust fumes, toxins, odors, pollens, pathogens and pollutant, capturing a remarkable 99.37% at 0.1 microns, which is about as good as filters get.

But there are several other key benefits: an ultra-breathable honeycomb outer layer, durable foam nose pads to optimize fit and prevent glasses from fogging, adjustable ear loops with a toggle lock on each one, and a soft, comfortable lining of natural bamboo fabric. The sleek design provides an excellent seal on almost every face, and the ultra-thin filter combines maximum breathability and protection. The replaceable filter can be used for up to 200 hours and the HALOmask comes in sizes small through extra-large in order to fit adults and children as young as seven. It is offered in black, white, or two-tone sport mesh with grey trim ($30 with one filter).

Masks with high efficiency filters are desirable, but often cumbersome. The r mask has a better ... [+] perfectly fitted, user friendly solution

r Nanofilter Masks: Based in Prague, r takes a similar approach, using a disposable EU-made three-layer nano filter insert, which blocks up to 99.8% of particulates. In addition, the exterior is treated with Swedish made ViralOff, an antimicrobial treatment that reduces 99% of viruses on the surface within two hours. The front is also treated with Eco Aqua Zero, which makes the exterior water repellent and causes water to bead up and roll off, and while many mask buyers dont consider what it is like to wear one in the rain, you may have to at some point. The masks are light and comfortable, with a locking toggle on each ear loop for perfect fit.

Its important to note that r makes two versions, with and without an external exhalation valve. In general masks with valves have been not recommended (including by the WHO) because they allow users to expel unfiltered air which is dangerous to others, but unlike most competitors, the exhalation valve is entirely in front of the filter meaning that exhalation is still filtered but is supposed to be easier. However, while these are popular in Europe, when I flew recently on American Airlines, they had a policy of not allowing masks with valves, and the r models I have been testing are the valve-less ones.

The r mask has all the bells and whistles: filter, anti-microbial coating, high breathability and ... [+] adjustable ear loops

But my favorite thing about the r masks that sets them apart from similar high tech models is that the filter is a single fitted piece the same shape as the mask itself, attaching to the inside panel via three hook and loop strips, rather than the pocket just about everyone else uses. On many masks, inserting the filter evenly and without crumpling it up is a tedious process, but this one fits perfectly and securely every time with virtually no effort. In addition, the filter itself has an embedded aluminum strip in the nosepiece to match the perfect close fit of the mask, and the disposable filters can be used for up to two weeks. The r masks come in three sizes and seven color schemes but all are black, only the logo size and color changes ($30).

Ideal for hiking or running, the Buff Filter Tube combines the ease and comfort of a neck gaiter ... [+] with high efficiency filtration

Buff Filter Tube: This is by far the best option Ive seen for frequent on and off use, such as hiking when you pull up the mask only when you pass people the trail.

Neck gaiters as a category of masks got slammed by a widely publicized study calming the were worse than wearing nothing, which defied logic so much it should have given researchers a red flag. Since then the New York Times, Slate, Popular Since and many others have reported how the testing was flawed, but to me the bigger issue was that the researchers seemed to believe that a neck gaiter is a single consistent thing like a cotton bandana. In fact, neck gaiters cone in all thicknesses and materials, from synthetics to cotton to wool and some are literally hundreds of times thicker than others. It sounds like the one they tested was the lowest denominator, the promotional giveaway style.

On the other hand, Spanish manufacturer Buff pioneered the tubular multi-function headwear category for active outdoor use, and when the coronavirus surged throughout Europe early in the year, before it was as much of an issue here, Buffs brand teams felt the coming global impact at its headquarters in Spain. As employees were sent home for safety precautions and production paused, brainstorming ways to provide aid began. That's when the new corporate alliance with UNICEF and the new Buff Filter Mask were launched, with 2% of global revenues, including all sales from the new masks, to be donated to UNICEF next year. I covered this in my last story.

Now Buff has a newer product, the Filter Tube and while the mask is a highly fitted, strap-on mask, the filter tube is basically a classic Buff neck gaiter with a pocket that holds a disposable filter. The 3-layer filter uses melt-blown nano fiber, quickly becoming the top material choice, claiming 98% effectiveness, and the interior of the filter pocket is treated with Swiss HeiQ V-Block antimicrobial treatment. It also adds in UPF 50+ sun protection, and is wicking and quick drying. Basically, it can give you filtered mask protection while keeping the sun off you or keeping you warmer during a range of outdoor activities. Since most ski resorts are requiring masks for lifts and lift lines this season, and Buff is already a popular skier and snowboarder choice, this seems perfect for winter.

Besides myself, the only people I could find who have used and reviewed the filter tube were the truly obsessive gear junkies at running website roadtrailrun.com who wrote, We tested the Buff Filter Tube on a hike with 2400 feet of climbing in 3 miles to Lake Blanche in Utah.The trail was busy and narrow so masking was frequently required. Not only is the Buff with filter comfortable enough to remain on at all times under exertion but the ability to carefully and quickly (unlike masks) pull it up and down is very convenient when passing people on the trail. Of the masks tested it is clearly the most practical for runners while providing, when used and handled properly and instructions are included, a high level of filtration protection. Because of the four way stretch and generally comprehensive, form fitting nature, it only comes in two unisex sizes which cover pretty much everyone, and a whopping fourteen colors and patterns. Each filter tube includes five single use filters ($27-$29).

The Better Mask by Inex Gear has an integrated nano filter that does not need to be replaced.

Inex Better Mask: Los Angeles-based Inex Gear just launched The Better Mask as a stylish and high-tech protective option. It was designed in collaboration with Academy Award nominated costume designer Luis Sequeira (The Shape Of Water), and features a deep scalloped nose bridge so you can more easily see the wearers expression, and it comes in three sizes (suitable for kids 5 years and older) and four colors.

But while one of the key selling points is looking good, it is also packed with features. The chin cup makes for a tight seal, and it has an embedded nanofiber filter that spans the entire mask and is washable and reusable for daily wear - without having to remove or replace the filter. The nanofiber is sourced in Europe from a manufacturer that states it is 98% effective and the mask has been treated with Swiss HeiQ V-Block antimicrobial technology. Like the other (non-gaiter) masks here it has locking toggles on each ear loop for a highly adjustable, secure and comfortable fit ($33).

Read more from the original source:
Face Masks With The Best Filters, Features And Technology For Your Pandemic Safety - Forbes

Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman on scouting first-round pick Lucas Raymond in world junior tournaments and the Swedish Elite League. The Detroit News

Detroit Wake up, the NHL Entry Draft is finally over.

And the Red Wings are happy with that fact and the way it turned out for them.

In a draft that lasted approximately seven hours which has to be some sort of second-day record the Wings added 11 players to forward Lucas Raymond, who was drafted Tuesday in the first-round.

More: 2020 NHL draft: Meet the newest Red Wings

"That was a long day, wasn't it," said general manager Steve Yzerman of the marathon day. "Fortunately we had 12 picks so we were relatively busy through it all. All of you that stuck around, I commend you."

The Wings added two picks after making trades with Minnesota, Vegas and St. Louis during the day although the Vegas traded netted a 2022 fourth-round pick and gave themselves the larger number of draft picks they need to accelerate and bolster the rebuild.

William Wallinder was the Red Wings' first pick of the second round.(Photo: DraftGeek)

Yzerman, after a long day, was pleased with the way it ended.

"The accumulation of 12 picks and players we liked in those particular spots, everyone feels pretty good," Yzerman said. "We were able to add 12 prospects. Hopefully a few of them become NHL players someday."

This was the first virtual draft in the NHL because of the pandemic, and Yzerman was satisfied with how it went. There were minimal glitches with the broadcast, and teams selected smoothly - albeit slowly.

Subscription: Wojo: Yzerman pulls off a crafty draft, boosts Red Wings stock

"I don't think there was any hiccups," Yzerman said. "At least technically. We got it done."

There was a balance between forwards and defense, which wasn't intended, but the Wings were pleased with it.

I look at the balance of the picks and Im comfortable with that, Yzerman said. Its not the biggest priority, we want to get the best prospects available, but Im OK with the balance.

"We're pleased we're developing a pool of prospects and now they have to get to the NHL. We have good prospects we feel good about. But we have to get them to the NHL."

The Wings need help at every position after having the NHLs worst record and they drafted for help in every department:

Forwards: Theodor Niederbach (second-round, 51st overall), Cross Hanas (second-round, 55th overall), Sam Stange (fourth-round, 97th overall), Chase Bradley (seventh-round, 203rd overall) and Kienan Draper (seventh-round, 187th overall).

Red Wings draft pick Lucas Raymond, left, is pursued by Slovakia's Michal Beno during the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Edmonton, Alberta.(Photo: CODIE MCLACHLAN, AP)

Yes, Drapers son, who used to bounce around the Red Wings locker room at Joe Louis Arena back in the day.

Defensemen: William Walinder (second-round, 32nd overall), Donovan Sebrango (third-round, 63rd overall), Eemil Viro (third-round, 70th overall), Alex Cotton (fifth-round, 132nd overall) and Kyle Aucoin (sixth-round, 156th overall).

Goaltender: Jan Bednar (fourth-round, 107th overall).

These were the Wings trades:

Trading the 125th (a fifth-round) pick to Vegas in exchange for a 2022 fourth-round pick.

The Wings dealt a third-round pick (65th overall) to Minnesota for picks No. 70 (third-round) and No. 132 (fourth-round).

With the day almost ending, the Wings acquired a seventh-round pick (203rd), in exchange for a seventh-round pick in 2021.

Kris Draper, director of amateur scouting, was excited about the additions to the organization.

Were excited, it was a long day, but we feel we touched on a lot of needs, Draper said. We felt we had good balance of what we added to the organization and in what weve added with the positional players. Were proud of the selections we made and now the work starts.

Yzerman wanted to accumulate more picks, more chances to add depth in the organization, and it appeared it was a task accomplished.

It seemed like I made 10 trades, and we made four, Yzerman said. It was busy. Last night was relatively quiet after we made our pick. Today was busy, but I was pleased we were able to move back and get extra picks.

ted.kulfan@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @tkulfan

Kris Draper, Red Wings director of amateur scouting, talks about 18-year-old forward Lucas Raymond's transition from an underage player to the pro SHL. The Detroit News

Read more here:
Red Wings add 'good balance,' 11 picks on busy second day of draft - The Detroit News

Corvaya Jeffries|Palm Beach Post

Readers: In 1848, Florida, a state for only three years, had only about 58,000 residents. Its government was so small an oxymoron today it sought private tenants to fill some of the offices in its new 23,000-square-foot, three-story capitol!

Now, Tallahassee boasts 28 major state buildings and a 22-story capitol tower. Nestled at the towers base, making a stirring site on the approach along Apalachee Parkway, is the Old Capitol. Saved from the wrecking ball when the new building opened in 1978 and restored to its 1902 appearance, it has been turned into a state historic museum that both displays and is part of the states past.

You'll recall from our column in March 2019 how Tallahassee became the seat of government.

Read more Florida history: Here are Floridas top 25 stories of all time

The first statehouse, a log cabin, was replaced in 1826 by a two-story masonry building; it was never finished and its contractor went bankrupt. A state-of-the-art building, begun in 1839 and opened in 1845, the year Florida became a state. The building was extensively damaged in an 1851 hurricane.

At the turn of the century, when Floridas population had grown to about a half million, the capitol now featuring the luxuries of telephones and indoor plumbing was expanded to 44,000 square feet. The dome and north and south wings were added. It still held all of state government. East and west wings were built in 1923nand the north and south wings were expanded in 1936 and 1947.

Then Florida started to grow. At the end of World War II, it was ranked 27th in population. By 1960 it was tenth. In the 1960s, concluding the old edifice couldnt handle more additions, state officials began to build a brand-new capitol. It was dedicated March 1, 1978.

Florida Time archives: Get caught up on the stories youve missed

The old building was scheduled for the wrecking ball. But Florida Secretary of State Bruce Smathers gathered public support to save it. In 1982, the restored Old Capitol opened as a museum. Its now the Florida Historic Capitol Museum and is managed by the Legislature.

The museum brings in two or three temporary exhibits a year, but has several permanent ones.

Visitors can walk through the restored Governors Suite, rotunda, halls and chambers for the Supreme Court, House of Representatives and Senate. Eight second-floor rooms have been filled with exhibits of photographs and artifacts interpreting Floridas history.

READER REWIND: What airport memories do you have? Share yours with us by leaving a voicemail at (850) 270-8418.

Next week:The UFO sightings near Pensacola

Last week:Gamble Mansion of the Souths antebellum plantation era

Eliot Kleinberg has been a staff writer for the past three decades at The Palm Beach Post in West Palm Beach, and is the author of 10 books about Florida (www.ekfla.com). Submit your questions, comments or memories to FloridaTime@Gatehousemedia.com. Include your full name and hometown. Sorry; no personal replies.

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Florida Time: The Old Capitol that dodged a wrecking ball - Daytona Beach News-Journal

The 2020 NHL Draft has concluded, but the New York Rangers' 2021 roster is far from set.

Of the nine draft picks the Blueshirts brought in during the two-day virtual draft, only one will make an immediate impact No. 1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenire. It'll be years before we see any of the others on the NHL stage, if they get there at all.

If the Rangers are going to make any other additions to next season's roster, it will happen after the free agency period opens Friday at noon. It's likely they will, either through free agency or trade, but it could only be a minor move or two. They still have to consider what to do with their own restricted free agents and how much they're willing to pay for them and leave some salary cap space to account for potential performance bonuses from their entry-level players.

As an exercise in identifying where the Rangers stand currently, I've focused on two areas. The first is what their NHL lineup would look like if they hit the ice today, and the second is what the organizational depth looks like beyond the projected NHL lineup. For the latter, I've broken each position into two categories top prospects in terms of upside and which players are most likely to be called on if needed in the coming season.

DRAFT TAKEAWAYS: Rangers add grit and keep RFAs

NHL DRAFT TRACKR: Analysis of every Rangers pick

I should note that I've included all of the RFAs the Rangers extended qualifying offers to. Most will likely be retained, but one or two could be gone.

With that, here is my post-draft, pre-free agency lineup projection:

FORWARDS

First line Chris Kreider (LW) - Mika Zibanejad (C) - Pavel Buchnevich (RW)

Second line Artemi Panarin (LW) - Ryan Strome (C) - Kaapo Kakko (RW)

Third line Alexis Lafrenire (LW) - Filip Chytil (C) - Julien Gauthier (RW)

Fourth line Brendan Lemieux (LW) - Morgan Barron (C) - Brett Howden (RW)

New York Rangers right wing Kaapo Kakko (24) celebrates with center Mika Zibanejad (93) after Kakko scored against the Dallas Stars during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Dallas, Tuesday, March 10, 2020.(Photo: Michael Ainsworth, AP)

DEFENSEMEN

First pair Tony DeAngelo (L) and Jacob Trouba (R)

Second pair Ryan Lindgren (L) and Adam Fox (R)

Third pair Libor Hjek (L) and Brendan Smith (R)

New York Rangers' Tony DeAngelo (77) celebrates with teammate Jacob Trouba after scoring the game winning goal during the overtime period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild Monday, Nov. 25, 2019, in New York. The Rangers won 3-2. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)(Photo: Frank Franklin II, AP)

GOALIES

Starter Igor Shesterkin

Backup Alexandar Georgiev

Igor Shesterkin #31 of the New York Rangers makes a save against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Qualification Round prior to the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 04, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.(Photo: Andre Ringuette, Getty Images)

My thoughts We know the Rangers are looking to add a center, but as it stands now, it would almost certainly be Strome and Chytil on the second and third lines. The fourth line would likely be a training camp battle between Barron and Howden, with the other possibly ending up on a wing.

Of course, I'm sure many of you are wondering about Vitali Kravtsov. It's entirely plausible that he ends up making the NHL roster, especially if he keeps up his strong play in the KHL. But as of this moment, he's still in Russia. We don't know yet if the Rangers plan to bring him back for training camp, or let him continue in the KHL. For sure, though, the 2018 first-round pick is a candidate to crack the top nine probably as the right-winger on the third line.

I'm also sure many of you are clamoring for Lafrenire in the top six. That will happen soon enough, but I believe the Rangers will ease him in. It'll be interesting to see if they try out any of their left-wingers on the right.

As for the defense, general manager Jeff Gorton told us they're giving serious consideration to moving DeAngelo or Fox to the left side. This makes a lot of sense, especially if they don't bring in a top-four caliber lefty. To me, it seems logical to keep the Lindgren-Fox pairing together and give DeAngelo a shot next to Trouba. That would balance the bigger, more physical presences (Trouba and Lindgren) with the mobile puck-movers (DeAngelo and Fox).

Lastly, highly touted prospect K'Andre Miller should have a chance to earn a spot on defense out of training camp. But he won't be handed an NHL role until he moves past Smith and Hjek on the depth chart.

LEFT WING

Top prospects 1. Lafrenire (NHL); 2. William Cuylle (OHL); 3. Brett Berard (NCAA)

Current depth chart 1. Phil Di Giuseppe (NHL/AHL); 2. Tim Gettinger (AHL); 3. Patrick Newell (AHL)

My thoughts With the Rangers qualifying Di Giuseppe on Wednesday, there's a decent chance he sticks on the NHL roster as the 13th forward. Each of the top three long-term prospects was taken in this year's draft, although you could debate between Berard and 2019 fifth-round pick Leevi Aaltonen at No. 3.

Alexis Lafreniere #11 of Team White is presented with the winners trophy following the final whistle of the 2020 CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game against Team Red at FirstOntario Centre on January 16, 2020 in Hamilton, Canada.(Photo: Vaughn Ridley, Getty Images)

CENTER

Top prospects 1. Barron (NHL/AHL); 2. Karl Henriksson (SHL); 3. Oliver Trnstrm (Allsvenskan)

Current depth chart 1. Justin Richards (AHL); 2. Patrick Khoderenko (AHL); 3. Austin Rueschhoff (AHL)

My thoughts It remains to be seen if the Rangers prefer Barron in the middle or on the wing, but it makes sense to at least give him a chance here. If he ends up on the wing, Henriksson, a second-round pick in 2019, becomes the organization's top guy. As for the AHL guys who are next-in-line, the leading candidates are the trio of undrafted centers the Rangers signed out of college last winter.

Cornell's Morgan Barron, center, makes his way down the ice during their game against Colgate at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019.(Photo: Heather Ainsworth, AP)

RIGHT WING

Top prospects 1. Kravtsov (KHL); 2. Gauthier (NHL); 3. Lauri Pajuniemi (Liiga)

Organizational depth 1. Kravtsov; 2. Ty Ronning (AHL); 3. Jake Elmer (AHL)

My thoughts Kravtsov is both the top prospect and the first guy the Rangers would want to recall. Beyond him, they would probably use Barron, Howden or Di Giuseppe as a RW option in the event of an injury.

Rangers prospect Vitali Kravtsov and other Rangers prospects practice at the Rangers training facility in Greenburgh Sept. 5, 2019. (Photo: Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News)

LEFT DEFENSE

Top prospects 1. Miller (AHL/NHL); 2. Zac Jones (NCAA); 3. Matthew Robertson (WHL)

Organizational depth 1. Miller (AHL/NHL); 2. Tarmo Reunanen (AHL/NHL); 3. Brandon Crawley (AHL)

My thoughts The Rangers feel good about their depth here; now it's just a matter of development. Miller and Reunanen will have a chance to compete for NHL roles in camp, while the top three prospects at this position are the strongest group of any in the organization. They also have Yegor Rykov, Jacob Ragnarsson and Simon Kjellberg.

K'Andre Miller on the ice during the first day of New York Rangers development camp June 24, 2019 at Chelsea Piers in Stamford, Conn. (Photo: Tania Savayan/The Journal News)

RIGHT DEFENSE

Top prospects 1. Nils Lundkvist (SHL); 2. Braden Schneider (WHL); 3. Hunter Skinner (OHL)

Organizational depth 1. Darren Raddysh (AHL); 2. Lundkvist (SHL); 3. One of the lefties

My thoughts Having prospects the caliber of Lundkvist and Schneider behind Trouba, Fox and DeAngelo could eventually create a logjam, but it's a good problem to have. As for the immediate depth, it's probably either Raddysh or move one of the lefties over. By the time the SHL season finishes, though, Lundkvist could sign.

June 25, 2018: The New York Rangers host a development camp for their prospects at the MSG Training Center in Tarrytown, NY. Pictured is Nils Lundkvist.(Photo: Cam Camarena/MSG Photos)

GOALIES

Top prospects 1. Shesterkin (NHL); 2. Tyler Wall (AHL); 3. Dylan Garand (WHL)

Current depth chart 1. Adam Huska (AHL); 2. Wall (AHL); 3. Oolf Lindbom (Allsvenskan)

My thoughts It seems silly to list Shesterkin as a prospect, but he's still eligible for the Calder Trophy next season. As for the depth behind him and Georgiev, it'll be interesting to see how playing time is divided in Hartford between Huska and Wall. For now, in the event of an emergency, the Rangers would probably recall Huska first because he's more experienced.

June 25, 2019: The New York Rangers host their prospects at development camp at Chelsea Piers in Stamford, CT. Pictured is Tyler Wall.(Photo: Jared Silber/MSG Photos)

Vincent Z. Mercogliano is the New York Rangers beat reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Read more of his work at lohud.com/sports/rangers/ and follow him on Twitter @vzmercogliano.

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Examining NY Rangers prospect depth and lineup possibilities after the NHL Draft - The Journal News / Lohud.com

Whether you are a media specialist seeking excellent additions to your collection or titles to recommend, or an educator seeking gold for both remote and in-person learning, youll find plenty of options here, with accurate and authentic booksby and about Native Americans and First Nations people.

Our world is experiencing a social and political reckoning. In such turbulent times, literature can serve as a tool of enlightenment and escape. Whether you are a media specialist seeking excellent additions to your collection or titles to recommend, or an educator seeking gold for both remote and in-person learning, youll find plenty of options here. Most importantly, the accurate and authentic books here are by and about Native Americans and First Nations people.

According to a Diversity in Childrens Books 2018 infographic, one percent of books published in the United States and Canada in 2018 had content about, or depicted characters with, Native American/First Nations backgrounds. Of that one percent, 40 books were by Native American/First Nations people and 56 were about Native American/First Nations people. This data does not reflect the quality of those representations, only quantity. Many of the books published each year about Indigenous people contain misrepresentations of Native people and cultures. While the number of books by Native American/First Nations authors released by U.S. and Canadian publishers has slowly increased over the past decade, with this past year signaling perhaps a watershed moment, there is a long way to go.

In-person, remote, and hybrid instructional models this year will all yield even less actual teaching time than previous years. To maximize time with students, the titles we use must meet high standard: They must serve as instructional resources, they must be accurate and authentic, and they must be engaging enough to return to time and again as mentor texts.

The featured picture books, board books, and graphic novel are for all ages. These titles showcase beautiful language and a higher vocabulary, and can be used with multiple levels of readers. They also explore prevalent themes and important concepts, which can be used across subject areas.

Additionally, these books transcend standards for pre-K12 learning. They can be used in reading, writing, and language instruction. Some are appropriate for social studies and even science. They can also serve as mentor texts and touchstones, which provide continuity for students while saving instructional time by using familiar books. The best part? They will ignite curiosity and keep readers engaged.

CHILD, Brenda J. Bowwow Powwow. illus by Jonathan Thunder. tr. from Ojibwe by Gordon Jourdain. Minnesota Historical Society. 2018. ISBN 9781681340777.Gr 2-4 This recipient of the 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award for Picture Books is an Ojibwe dual-language celebration of the history of Ojibwe song and dance, past and present, according to the authors note. Intriguing illustrations that blend historical with contemporary powwows depict Windy Girl, her uncle, and her dog Itchy Boy dancing, enjoying food, and bonding with friends at a summer powwow. Windy Girl falls asleep that night and dreams of a different powwow, the kind Itchy Boy would love.

FLETT, Julie. Birdsong. illus. by author. Greystone Kids. 2019. ISBN 9781771644730.Gr 2-7 Set against the backdrop of the four seasons and sprinkled with Cree words, this gorgeous taleand 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Booksfollows young Katherena as she and her mother move from the city to the country, and as she and Agnes, her elderly neighbor, forge an unusual friendship. How Katherena deals with Agness health is just one of the lessons she learns throughout the year.

LINDSTROM, Carole. We Are Water Protectors. illus. by Michaela Goade. Roaring Brook. Mar. 2020. ISBN 9781250203557.Gr 2-4 This multilayered picture book was written in support of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, who protested the Dakota Access Pipeline. It can be used on a surface level with younger children and on a deeper, more informed level with older students. The authors and illustrators notes provide valuable information, and there is a pledge children can sign to protect the environment.

MAILLARD, Kevin Noble. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story. illus. by Juana Martinez-Neal. Roaring Brook. 2019. ISBN 9781626727465.Gr K-4 Fry bread is so much more than a food! It is shape, sound, color, flavor, time with family, and tradition. Weaving history and the strength of Native people into the story of fry bread, this picture book showcases Indigenous diversity of appearance and nation. Dont miss the authors note and recipe in the back.

PEACOCK, Thomas. The Forever Sky. illus. by Annette S. Lee. Minnesota Historical Society. 2019. ISBN 9781681340982.Gr 3-5 So many Native people share stories within families, clans, and tribes to strengthen ties with each other and to ensure the stories will live on through generations. This beautiful picture book follows that tradition for the Ojibwe, using a traditional story-within-a-story structure to tenderly answer young Niigaaniis question: Where does Grandmothers spirit go when it leaves this world? Lees stunning illustrations depict the northern lights and all the relatives dancing in the circle of the Forever Sky. A 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Books, this is an exceptional book that deals deftly, comfortingly, and culturally with a challenging time for young people.

ROBERTSON, Joanne. The Water Walker. illus. by author. tr. from Ojibwe by the author. Second Story. 2019. ISBN 9781772601008.Gr 3-8 This is the new dual-language edition of the story of Josephine Mandamin, an Ojibwe grandmother, and the Water Walkers, who walked around the Great Lakes to raise awareness of the need to protect the water. With contemporary references and illustrations, Robertson creates a call to action for environmental issues.

SORRELL, Traci. At the Mountains Base. illus. by Weshoyot Alvitre. Penguin/Kokila. 2019. ISBN 9780735230606.Gr K-5 Native American women and men have served at high rates in all branches of the military. A 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Honor Award winner for Picture Books, this lovely poem is a tribute to them and their loved ones back at home. Glimpses of daily life through the lens of a World War II pilot and a fictional Cherokee Nation family illuminate this era in history.

VAN CAMP, Richard. Kiss by Kiss. illus. by author. Orca. 2018. ISBN 9781459816213.Gr PreS-K This delightful rhyming counting book in Cree and English will have the youngest learners asking for it over and over. Beautiful close-up photography of faces will entrance, while the rhythmic words will pull kids in.

VAN CAMP, Richard. Welcome Song for Baby. illus. by author. Orca. 2018. ISBN 9781459820104.Gr PreS-K This dual-language book is a poem, a lullaby, a declaration, and a pledge to every child reader. Lyrical language describes the value of each child, each identity, while exquisite photos capture the diverse beauty of babies and adults.

VANDEVER, Daniel W. Fall in Line, Holden! illus. by author. Salina Bookshelf. 2017. ISBN 9781893354500.Gr K-12 This is one of those rare, multilayered picture books that can be used with all ages of students, from the tiniest readers to high schoolers. On the surface, younger readers will delight in the imaginative Holdens impatience for recess and difficulty standing still in line. But the text serves as an allegorical tool to open discussions of Native boarding schools, a grim period in American history. From the first paragraph to illustrations of mouthless students, this book is a treasure complex enough for secondary students and accessible and engaging for primary students.

AKULUKJUK, Roselynn & Danny Christopher. Putuguq and Kublu and the Qalupalik! illus. by Astrid Arijanto. Inhabit Media. 2019. ISBN 9781772272284.Gr 1-3 This graphic novel for newly independent readers will have students in stitches as Putuguqs imagination runs away with him. He and his big sister, Kublu, listen to their grandfathers story of the qalupaliitstrange creatures that live under the sea ice and snatch children. Grandpa tells them to be extra careful on their way and listen to the sea ice. Told with humor, modern-day relevance, and traditional story-within-a-story structure, this gem uses an attractive graphic novel format to show a grandfathers care to keep children safe and aware as they cross the ice.

Kara Stewart, an enrolled member of the Sappony Tribe, is a literacy coach and reading specialist in the public schools of Orange County, NC.

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Native Perspectives: Books by, for, and about Indigenous People | Great Books - School Library Journal

The future of the New York Rangers is becoming brighter and clearer by the day.

The Blueshirts added seven new prospects on Day 2 of the NHL Draft, maneuvering with two trades aimed at targets they view as long-term fits. They came out of the draft with a total of nine additions to their system, most notably No. 1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenire.

They also said goodbye to a player who turned out to be a bad fit, sending former first-round pick Lias Andersson to the Los Angeles Kings to move back into Wednesday's second round.

But as for the present, particularly the team that will take the ice when the new season is scheduled to begin on Jan. 1, many questions remain.

One of those questions centers around their second-line center.

The Rangers waited until close to the 5 p.m. deadline to extend a qualifying offer to restricted free agent Ryan Strome. Allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent was never an option, but general manager Jeff Gorton took his time exploring the trade market for last season's 59-point scorer.

"Ryans due a significant raise and we had some things we were talking to some teams about," Gorton said candidly. "I wanted to keep the options open until the very last second."

Nov. 16: The New York Rangers center Ryan Strome from the Edmonton Oilers.(Photo: Brad Penner, USA TODAY Sports)

The right deal never came but that doesn't mean it won't.

Gorton can still trade Strome in the coming days or weeks, but he's clearly not going to give him away. And the fact remains the Rangers don't have a replacement at the moment, unless they want to roll with the unproven trio of Filip Chytil, Brett Howden and Morgan Barron as three of their four centers.

LIAS ANDERSSON: Trade completes divorce with former top-10 pick

NHL DRAFT TRACKER: Analysis of every NY Rangers pick

In order to trade Strome, Gorton was probably seeking a second-round pick if not more.

He was able to fetch that in exchange for Andersson, landing one at the very end of the round, No. 60 overall. With it, the Rangers selected tough-minded winger William Cuylle.

The value falls well short of the No. 7 overall slot where Andersson was drafted in 2017, but this conclusion was inevitable. Once Andersson left for Sweden and requested the trade, the Rangers had their backs against the wall.

"Obviously, you take a guy that high, you hope that he has an impact sooner than later," Gorton said. "At this point in his career, it's hard to say. Maybe we brought him over too soon. I don't know. It's just a lot of things didn't go the way we wanted it to. He's still a young guy. I think he needed a fresh start, so we just made a decision to move and start over."

Nov 7, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; New York Rangers center Lias Andersson (28) takes a shot against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena.(Photo: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports)

If Andersson goes to L.A. and succeeds, the Rangers will deserve some criticism for mishandling him. The bigger criticism is simply making the wrong pick. (Although, to be fair, none of the players selected immediately behind Andersson are looking like stars.)

But considering Andersson turned down the Rangers invitation to join the team for the summer restart, and was clearly not coming back to New York anytime soon, this deal could have been worse.

Waiting, rather than forcing a trade back in the winter, was the right move. Allowing Andersson to play in the Swedish Hockey League where he's posted 16 points in 19 games boosted his trade value and made getting a second-round pick possible.

"I think it's helped him to go back and play," Gorton said. "From speaking to him and his agents, he was more comfortable there. He just felt more and more confident playing over there each day, so I think teams were able to see him. For sure, there's been some teams that have called me and checked in."

Cuylle described himself as a player who models his game after Washington Capitals bruiser Tom Wilson.

He joins No. 19 overall pick Braden Schneider, as well as some of the Rangers' later picks, as players who are known for toughness and aggressive play. Clearly, that was a strategy for the Rangers in this draft.

"We definitely want to be harder to play against and had identified some players that we saw had some grit to their game, some size, but also some skill, too," Gorton said. "A lot of those bigger players, we feel like have some upside, too. ... That's definitely a need we identified and think we've addressed."

Jeff Gorton.

The Rangers waited until the third round to address their top need at center, drafting Swedish center Oliver Trnstrm at No. 92. They also wisely used two of their seventh-round picks to acquire a fifth-round choice (No. 127 overall) from the San Jose Sharks, where they tabbed Evan Vierling. They added two other forwards on Day 2, drafting 5-foot-9 winger Brett Berard at No. 134 and 6-foot-8 center Matt Rempe at No. 165.

All of those players are known for having high motors, which continues the grit theme.

The Rangers have loaded up on skill in recent years, both in the draft think Chytil, Kaapo Kakko and Vitali Kravtsov and with the addition of Artemi Panarin. Now they're working on balancing the roster.

"We addressed a lot of needs," Gorton said. "Some emphasis on size. We had a lot of Canadians which, lately it seemed to have just worked out that we had a lot of Europeans. It's one of those years where it worked out that we ended up with some players from North America."

They also drafted two goalies Dylan Garand at No. 103 and Hugo Ollas at No. 197.

It came down to the wire, but the Rangers ultimately qualified all five of their NHL RFAs Strome, Tony DeAngelo, Brendan Lemieux, Phil Di Giuseppe and Alexandar Georgiev.

All five are arbitration eligible if they can't come to terms with the Rangers on their own. Any of them could still be traded, or signed to an offer sheet by another team. But the Rangers have the right to match any offer sheet.

They also extended qualifying offers to AHL RFAs Gabriel Fontaine, Brandon Crawley and Darren Raddysh, while declining to extend Ryan Gropp and Dawson Leedahl.

Gorton added that he expects their top UFA, veteran forward Jesper Fast, to "at least see what's out there" once free agency opens on Friday.

New York Rangers' Tony DeAngelo (77) shoots during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Minnesota Wild, Monday, Nov. 25, 2019, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)(Photo: Frank Franklin II, AP)

Interestingly, Gorton discussed a possible position shift for DeAngelo.

The Rangers are top heavy with right-handed defensemen, with DeAngelo, Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba representing a formidable NHL trio. They also have Nils Lundkvist playing in the SHL as their top defenseman prospect, plus this week's addition of Schneider.

And while they have a deep group of prospects on the left side, none are proven in the NHL. Beyond Ryan Lindgren, there are only questions marks.

With that in mind, Gorton acknowledged the possibility of trying one of their righties out of the left side.

"Weve talked about our right side and who is the best person to move other there," Gorton said. "I dont think itll be Troubs. Weve talked about Foxy and Tony. Those are ongoing conversations (about) trying to get them more ice time. Listen, we have a very talented right side that can move the puck, and we do think we have two guys that are very capable. Actually, our organization thinks we have a young player in Sweden (Lundkvist) that can do it, too, and play the offside. So, we're pretty comfortable that they can do it."

If the Rangers can come to terms with DeAngelo, it's very possible that their top-two pairs would consist of their four-best defensemen DeAngelo, Fox, Trouba and Lindgren.

Vincent Z. Mercogliano is the New York Rangers beat reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Read more of his work at lohud.com/sports/rangers/ and follow him on Twitter @vzmercogliano.

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Takeaways from NHL Draft Day 2: NY Rangers add grit and keep RFAs, but not done yet - The Journal News / Lohud.com

Jacob Myers|The Columbus Dispatch

Columbus 2, FC Dallas 2 | Caleb Porter postgame press conference

Columbus Crew coach Caleb Porter addresses the media following a 2-2 draw at FC Dallas on Oct. 3, 2020.

When homegrown midfielder Aidan Morrissubbedinto Saturdays game at FC Dallasfor the injured Lucas Zelarayan late in the first half,the Crewhadessentially thelineupthat ended the 2019 season.Key offseason additionsDarlington Nagbe,Zelarayanand VitoWormgoorwere all out.

Butin the absence of two key players Saturday goalkeeper Eloy Roomexited with an injury in the 71stminute the Crew found an extra level to earna2-2 drawthat kept the clubatop the Eastern Conference and Supporters Shield race.

The second half the character they showed, the personality they showed, the aggression they played with that's the way we need to play, coach Caleb Porter said after the game. That's our game."

Morris made an immediate impact by winning duels to help the Crew control the second half in possession, and midfielder Pedro Santos continued to show his good form from last season with the tying goal in the 62ndminute his fourth goal in the past six games.

Injuries last season derailed the Crew before Porter made additions to the roster in July.There have been no personnel changesin 2020, but the unknown prognosis on Zelarayan and Room could affect that.

To remain competitive forthe top record in the MLSin the finaleight games while key players recover,the Crew needs to avoid more injuriesandtoperformas it did in the second halfSaturday.

"We're hanging in, Porter said. Not exactly the way we completely want it to be, but I think survival a little bit in these next couple weeks for everyone.

The Crew has been withoutWormgoorsince the first game of the MLS is Back Tournament in July, and has weathered through games without Nagbe and Zelarayan already this season.Porter said Thursday that Nagbe was probably still one to two weeks away but was making progress.

The Crew changed its formationagainst Dallas to a 4-1-4-1because of the lack of depth in the central midfield with Nagbe and FataiAlasheout with injuries. The change in formation had midfielders Youness Mokhtar, Santos, Zelarayan and Luis Diaz all in the lineup, giving the Crew all its best scoring-chance creators on the field at the same time.

In the 43rdminutewhenZelarayan went to the ground grabbing his right hamstring, Porter was forced to returnto hispreferred4-2-3-1formation.Zelarayan appeared to suffer the injury when extending for a ball in the box after a cross from left back Milton Valenzuela. When Zelarayan attempted to kick the ball a second time, he hopped awkwardly on his left foot before getting a shot away.

Santos isnt as talented or skilled in possession as Zelarayan, but the Portuguese winger has proven to bea more than adequate replacement to an injured central attacking midfielder in the past 18 months. Hell need to bring the same intensity he showed in the second half if Zelarayan missestime.

"I feel like I'm playing very good soccer, Santos said. Every time I move to theNo. 10I know my job and my teammates know that I can help the team.

Rooms injury occurred after he dived on a ball around the 66thminute. He appeared to aggravate ita few minutes later when he slipped while clearing a ball out of play. If hes unable to go, Andrew Tarbell will take over again. He allowed one goal in three earlier starts.

There arent many teams around MLS that arent dealing with multiple injuries. Porter said he was confident the Crew would win a lot of games if it clones the second half in Dallas. That might be required to stay atop the East until key players return.

jmyers@dispatch.com

@_jcmyers

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With more injuries against FC Dallas, how Columbus Crew can continue to stay atop the East - The Columbus Dispatch

While were already expecting a fairly large number of unscheduled free agents to join the market this winter by way of COVID-induced non-tenders, Major League Baseball could also get significant additions to free agency by way of international players coming to the States.

One player, in particular, might just be the prize of the class, and hes reportedly on his way.

Meet Ha-Seong Kim, a soon-to-be 25-year-old Gold Glove, base-stealing, high-contact, offensively well-above-average shortstop set to make his Major League Debut for some lucky team in 2021. He is likely one of the best prospects in baseball:

As you can see by his stats, Kim has been an impactful player throughout his time in the KBO, leveling off with a consistent 140 wRC+ over his last two seasons, while always hitting above average overall. Best of all? Gotta love those trends in strikeout rate, walk rate, and power. He keeps adding a bit more power and walks while striking out less and less.

Hes also considered a plus on the bases and in the field, with every ability to stick at shortstop long-term.

I think Kyle Glasers notes on Kim from back in May before his excellent 2020 season, mind you do a good job of illustrating his skillset and projected abilities:

Hes a 24-year-old shortstop who hit .307/.389/.491 with 19 home runs, 104 RBI and 33 stolen bases in 37 attempts for Kiwoom last year. Kim is a solid all-around player who projects to stick at shortstop. He is a good athlete with good instincts at the position and has the average arm strength to stay on the left side of the infield. He projects to be an above-average hitter and has enough power to hit 12-15 home runs per year in the majors.

Kim is likely to face an adjustment period at the plate when he first arrives in the U.S., but he has the athleticism and twitch to adjust and eventually hit major league velocity. He is a plus runner who adds value on the bases as well.

Again, if that write-up makes you excited, remember that Kim went on to slash .304/.396/.522 (140 wRC+) this past year with 27 home runs and 21 more stolen bases in his age-24 season. Because of his age and talent level, Kim would obviously be a top-100 prospect and one of the top-10 free agents available this winter.

Of course, just because he has become available and can negotiate with all 30 teams at once doesnt mean that process looks similar to a normal MLB free agent. Specifically, whenever Kim does eventually sign a new deal, the winning team will have to pay a fee to his current KBO team, and that fee is on-top of (not withdrawn from) whatever contract Kim signs.

Posting Fee Schedule:

20% of the contracts first $25M

17.5% of the contracts next $25M

15% of anything beyond $50M

So lets say, for example, that Kim signs a deal worth $75 million (which is completely made up, because, frankly, I have *no clue* what a player like him will be able to command given the current financial landscape). The team would actually pay out $88.125 million total ($75M to Kim and $13.125M to the KBO Kiwoom Heroes). Thats just something to keep in mind.

But Ive strung you along long enough lets talk about the Cubs.

Do I think Kim is an interesting potential Cubs target? Well, of course! Hes young, talented, and available at a position of theoretical need by which I mean the Cubs have a hole at second base and have a shortstop, Javy Bez, heading into his final year of team control.

The Cubs could theoretically 1) play Kim at second base alongside Bez for a year before moving Kim to short long-term and letting Bez walk, 2) play Kim at shortstop immediately with Bez shifting to second for a year, before letting Bez walk, or 3) keep both in their long-term plans up the middle by signing Kim and eventually extending Bez, playing these guys at whichever position suits them best. (Drools.)

But given the Cubs financial situation this offseason, I really dont know how much money will be available, even for a seemingly perfect fit like Kim. The Cubs likely dont have zero money, but every indication is that things will be tight. Could they make an exception for a very young, long-term piece like Kim? Might they view this and next years offseason budgets together as one unit, since so much money will come off the books after the 2021 season? Maybe Im stretching because I want the Cubs to add a potentially perfect bat to the mix? Yup!

Of course, even if Ha-Seong Kim does not wind up a realistic target for the Cubs, that doesnt mean that his availability on the free agent market wouldnt impact them at all. Specifically, it could affect them by way of pushing Bez slightly closer toward an extension.

Consider that this offseason, shortstops Didi Gregorius, Marcus Semien, and Andrelton Simmons will all be free agents. And next offseason, shortstops Trevor Story, Brandon Crawford, Jose Iglesias, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa, Francisco Lindor, and Bez will all be free agents. That is a LOT of starting shortstops becoming available over the next 12-14 months (i.e., a lot of competition on the market). Might the existence of another, even younger talent like Kim push Bez to extend sooner than later to avoid being left on the outside looking in? I could see it.

Increasingly, we see the guys viewed as the tip-top of the market getting tip-top dollars, and then everyone else getting squeezed out. Right now, especially after this past season, its hard to argue that Bez is the tip-top guy among that list of names. Playing out the 2021 season and hitting free agency could come with a lot of potential reward for Bez, but also a lot of risk.

Ultimately, the dream scenario for the Cubs is probably locking up Bez AND grabbing Kim while you can especially considering the Cubs top positional prospects play completely different positions (catcher (Miguel Amaya) and center field (Brennen Davis)), and its not yet clear if Nico Hoerner is an everyday guy or a super-sub long-term. And given the financial realities of the franchise at the moment, that might be a heck of a lot more doable than dreaming on a massive deal for Seager, Lindor, or Story.

In any case, for now, the headline is that Kim is coming, and a whole lotta teams are really going to want him. We hope the Cubs are one of those teams, and well be tracking this story closely in the coming weeks.

Brett Taylor contributed to this post.

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Top Korean Hitter Ha-Seong Kim to Be Posted to Major League Baseball - bleachernation.com