upi--2020-12-31--British PM Boris Johnson, Queen Elizabeth II give final approval to Brexit deal

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- The historic Brexit trade agreement with the European Union entered legal force in Britain on Thursday , just hours before the official end of the transition period .
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson signed the agreement into law after a parliamentary approval process that lasted into late Wednesday and early Thursday .
The new deal , which virtually took all of 2020 to iron out , radically alters Britain 's relationship with the 27-member alliance beginning just before midnight Thursday , when the preset transition period expires .
While Britain has now given final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be ratified by European Parliament next month .
The EU has provisionally approved the deal .
Britain 's making the deal law closes the book on its departure from the bloc , which began with the Brexit referendum in June 2016 and technically ended last January .
When Britain officially exited early this year , both sides set the transition period to negotiate the fine details of their future trade relationship .
`` The destiny of this great country now resides firmly in our hands , '' Johnson said Thursday .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of purpose and with the interests of the British public at the heart of everything we do .
`` [ This is ] a new beginning in our country 's history and a new relationship with the EU as their biggest ally .
This moment is finally upon us and now is the time to seize it . ''
Johnson also thanked lawmakers for working through endless disagreements , stalemates and criticisms , in the midst of a global health crisis .
`` We have done this [ trade deal ] in less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a pandemic , and we have pressed ahead with this task , resisting all calls for delay , precisely because creating certainty about our future provides the best chance of beating [ COVID-19 ] and bouncing back even more strongly next year , '' he said .
Queen Elizabeth II approved the agreement after Johnson signed it into law .
The deal , reached a week ago , overwhelmingly passed the House of Commons and House of Lords on Wednesday and it arrived Thursday at Windsor Castle for the queen 's approval @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' is required to officially make law .

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson signs the Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU on Friday at 10 Downing Street in London. Photo courtesy 10 Downing Street
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The historic Brexit trade agreement with the European Union entered legal force in Britain on Thursday, just hours before the official end of the transition period. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson signed the agreement into law after a parliamentary approval process that lasted into late Wednesday and early Thursday. Advertisement
The new deal, which virtually took all of 2020 to iron out, radically alters Britain's relationship with the 27-member alliance beginning just before midnight Thursday, when the preset transition period expires.
While Britain has now given final approval, the pact still has to be ratified by European Parliament next month. The EU has provisionally approved the deal.
Britain's making the deal law closes the book on its departure from the bloc, which began with the Brexit referendum in June 2016 and technically ended last January. When Britain officially exited early this year, both sides set the transition period to negotiate the fine details of their future trade relationship.
"The destiny of this great country now resides firmly in our hands," Johnson said Thursday. "We take on this duty with a sense of purpose and with the interests of the British public at the heart of everything we do.
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"[This is] a new beginning in our country's history and a new relationship with the EU as their biggest ally. This moment is finally upon us and now is the time to seize it."
Johnson also thanked lawmakers for working through endless disagreements, stalemates and criticisms, in the midst of a global health crisis.
"We have done this [trade deal] in less than a year, in the teeth of a pandemic, and we have pressed ahead with this task, resisting all calls for delay, precisely because creating certainty about our future provides the best chance of beating [COVID-19] and bouncing back even more strongly next year," he said.
Queen Elizabeth II approved the agreement after Johnson signed it into law.
The deal, reached a week ago, overwhelmingly passed the House of Commons and House of Lords on Wednesday and it arrived Thursday at Windsor Castle for the queen's approval.
In Britain, "royal assent" is required to officially make law.
Pictures of the Year: Top images from 2020


upi--2020-12-31--Masked Kawhi Leonard leads Clippers to blowout of Blazers

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Kawhi Leonard returned from a two-game injury absence and scored a game-high 28 points to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a blowout victory over the Portland Trail Blazers .
Leonard also had seven assists , three rebounds and three steals in the 128-105 win on Wednesday at Staples Center in Los Angeles .
Fellow Clippers All-Star Paul George chipped in 23 points , 10 rebounds and seven assists .
`` We tried to come out and bring energy and intensity and share the ball . ''
Leonard told reporters .
Leonard wore a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect his mouth , after he had eight stitches put in the area after he took an elbow to the face from teammate Serge Ibaka .
Portland shot just 31.6 % from 3-point range and 42.1 % from the floor .
Los Angeles made 47.4 % of its 3-point attempts and 49.5 % of its field goals .
The Clippers used a balanced offensive attack to earn a 37-26 lead through the first quarter and 76-57 edge at halftime .
Leonard then erupted for 16 points in the third quarter to push the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the final frame .
The Clippers outscored the Blazers 21-10 over the final 12 minutes to secure the win .
Blazers stars C.J .
McCollum and Damien Lillard scored 25 and 20 points , respectively , in the loss .
Enes Kanter had 10 points and 10 rebounds off the Blazers bench .
`` They were active and they showed their length , '' Lillard said of the Clippers .
`` They played with energy and played physical .
They caused [ turnovers ] and some of that with us .
Our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open shots . ''
Lou Williams had 15 points and five rebounds off the Clippers bench .
Ibaka , Nicolas Batum and Reggie Jackson scored 11 points apiece in the victory .
`` Whatever sets we are running , we just want to make sure we make the right play , '' Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said .
`` With our team , as constructed , everybody on our team can make a play .
That makes us dangerous . ''
The Clippers ( 4-1 ) face the Utah Jazz at 9 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Salt Lake City .
The Blazers ( 2-2 ) battle the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m. EST on Friday at Chase Center in San Francisco .

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (L) drives toward the rim during a win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday in Los Angeles. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Kawhi Leonard returned from a two-game injury absence and scored a game-high 28 points to lead the Los Angeles Clippers to a blowout victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Leonard also had seven assists, three rebounds and three steals in the 128-105 win on Wednesday at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Fellow Clippers All-Star Paul George chipped in 23 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists. Advertisement
"We tried to come out and bring energy and intensity and share the ball." Leonard told reporters.
Leonard wore a clear plastic mask throughout the game to protect his mouth, after he had eight stitches put in the area after he took an elbow to the face from teammate Serge Ibaka.
Portland shot just 31.6% from 3-point range and 42.1% from the floor. Los Angeles made 47.4% of its 3-point attempts and 49.5% of its field goals.
The Clippers used a balanced offensive attack to earn a 37-26 lead through the first quarter and 76-57 edge at halftime. Leonard then erupted for 16 points in the third quarter to push the Clippers lead to 107-85 at the start of the final frame.
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The Clippers outscored the Blazers 21-10 over the final 12 minutes to secure the win.
Blazers stars C.J. McCollum and Damien Lillard scored 25 and 20 points, respectively, in the loss. Enes Kanter had 10 points and 10 rebounds off the Blazers bench.
"They were active and they showed their length," Lillard said of the Clippers. "They played with energy and played physical. They caused [turnovers] and some of that with us. Our communications wasn't good and we missed open shots."
Lou Williams had 15 points and five rebounds off the Clippers bench. Ibaka, Nicolas Batum and Reggie Jackson scored 11 points apiece in the victory.
"Whatever sets we are running, we just want to make sure we make the right play," Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said. "With our team, as constructed, everybody on our team can make a play. That makes us dangerous."
The Clippers (4-1) face the Utah Jazz at 9 p.m. EST on Friday at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City. The Blazers (2-2) battle the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m. EST on Friday at Chase Center in San Francisco.


upi--2020-12-31--What to stream New Year's weekend: Countdown specials, 'Cobra Kai'

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Celebrities and musical guests will be counting down to 2021 across various specials , Cobra Kai kicks into high gear with its third season and RuPaul 's Drag Race enters into Season 13 this holiday weekend .
In addition , Mayim Bialik headlines her own comedy series , Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comes to an end with Season 4 and Doctor Who returns with a special episode .
Here 's a rundown of some of the countdown specials and TV shows that will be released this New Year 's weekend .
BTS , TXT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , BUMZU and ENHYPEN will perform during this K-pop-infused New Year 's Eve show , which is available to view Big Hit Labels ' Weverse platform .
Halsey , Steve Aoki and Lauv will also be a part of the show , which will pay tribute to the late Shin Hae-chul .
Gloria Gaynor and Andra Day will perform during this free New Year 's Eve event , which can be viewed on TimesSquare.org starting Thursday at 6 p.m. EST .
The special will begin with the lighting and raising of the Times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jonathan Bennett is hosting .
Ryan Seacrest , Lucy Hale and Billy Porter will host New Year 's Rockin ' Eve from New York City , which begins at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Thursday .
Ciara will host the Los Angeles portion , with Big Freedia handling the New Orleans section .
Jennifer Lopez , Miley Cyrus , Megan Thee Stallion , Doja Cat , Maluma , Ella Mai , En Vogue , Saweetie and more will perform .
Ken Jeong and Joel McHale will reunite to host Fox 's New Year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which starts at 8 p.m. EST Thursday and breaks at 10 p.m. EST before returning at 11 p.m. EST for the final countdown .
Masked Singer winner LeAnn RImes will perform , along with Gloria Estefan , Doctor Elvis , David Guetta , John Legend , Green Day and more .
Kelly Osbourne will be a special correspondent with Carole Baskin , Mayim Bialik and Tim Allen also making appearances .
Kylie Minogue will once again present her virtual and ticketed Infinite Disco performance for New Year 's Eve , which streams online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minogue will perform on a dance floor tracks from her newest album Disco , and classics from her catalogue that have been rearranged .
Carson Daly hosts from Times Square , alongside Julianne Hough and Stephen 'tWitch ' Boss , in this NBC New Year 's eve special , which airs at 10 p.m. EST on Thursday .
The show will break for local news at 11 p.m. EST and return at 11:30 p.m. EST for the signature ball drop .
Gwen Stefani , Blake Shelton , Kylie Minogue , AJR , Busta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Halle , Jason Derulo , Goo Goo Dolls , Pentatonix , Bebe Rexha , Sting and more are set to perform .
Justin Bieber has teamed up with T-Mobile for a livestream New Year 's Eve concert , which begins Thursday at 10:15 p.m. EST on JustinBieberNYE.com .
Bieber will start to perform at 11 p.m. EST .
T-Mobile customers can view the show for free while others can purchase tickets for $ 25 .
YouTube is ringing in the new year with this virtual special , which starts Thursday at 10:30 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Karol G , YG and Kane Brown will perform .
Matthew McConaughey , Demi Lovato , Emma Chamberlain , the D'Amelio Family and YouTube stars will make special appearances .
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina 's fourth and final season premieres Thursday on Netflix .
Sabrina ( Kiernan Shipka ) will take on the Eldritch Terrors and get close to her ex-boyfriend Nicholas 'Nick ' Scratch ( Gavin Leatherwood . )
Netflix will present a compilation of the funniest moments from its collection of comedy specials in Best of Stand-Up 2020 , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jerry Seinfeld , Leslie Jones , Kevin Hart , Hannah Gadsby and more will be featured .
RuPaul 's award-winning reality competition series returns with Season 13 , which premieres Friday at 8 p.m. EST on VH1 .
Thirteen new queens will compete to be crowned the next Drag Race superstar .
The first episode will also air on The CW , MTV , MTV2 , PopTV and Logo .
Karate Kid sequel series Cobra Kai is back in action with Season 3 , which arrives Friday on Netflix .
Johnny ( William @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) will deal with the violent high school brawl that took place between their dojos that sent Johnny 's star student Miguel ( Xolo Maridueña ) to the hospital .
'Doctor Who : Revolution of the Daleks ' -- BBC America Doctor Who kicks off the new year with a festive special that promises to be an action-packed spectacular .
The episode , which arrives Friday at 8 p.m. EST on BBC America , will bring the Doctor ( Jodie Whittaker ) into contact with a returning Capt .
Jack Harkness ( John @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walter and Nathan Stewart-Jarrett also guest star .
Big Bang Theory alum Mayim Bialik returns in Call Me Kat , a new comedy series , which premieres Sunday at 8 p.m. EST on Fox .
Bialik portrays Kat , a single , 39-year-old who opens up a cat cafe .
Swoosie Kurtz , Kyla Pratt , Leslie Jordan , Cheyenne Jackson and Julian Gant also star .
Tim Allen comedy Last Man Standing is entering its ninth and final season , which premieres Sunday at 8:30 p.m. EST on Fox .
The final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last Man Standing character Mike Baxter meeting his Home Improvement character Tim Taylor .

Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Celebrities and musical guests will be counting down to 2021 across various specials, Cobra Kai kicks into high gear with its third season and RuPaul's Drag Race enters into Season 13 this holiday weekend.
In addition, Mayim Bialik headlines her own comedy series, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comes to an end with Season 4 and Doctor Who returns with a special episode.
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Here's a rundown of some of the countdown specials and TV shows that will be released this New Year's weekend.
New Year's Eve Specials
Big Hit Labels' '2021 New Year's Eve Live' with BTS, Halsey -- Weverse
BTS, TXT, Lee Hyun, GFRIEND, NU'EST, BUMZU and ENHYPEN will perform during this K-pop-infused New Year's Eve show, which is available to view Big Hit Labels' Weverse platform. Halsey, Steve Aoki and Lauv will also be a part of the show, which will pay tribute to the late Shin Hae-chul.
Advertisement
'Times Square New Year's Eve 2021' -- TimesSquareNYC.org
Gloria Gaynor and Andra Day will perform during this free New Year's Eve event, which can be viewed on TimesSquare.org starting Thursday at 6 p.m. EST. The special will begin with the lighting and raising of the Times Square New Year's Eve ball. Jonathan Bennett is hosting.
'New Year's Rockin' Eve' -- ABC
Ryan Seacrest, Lucy Hale and Billy Porter will host New Year's Rockin' Eve from New York City, which begins at 8 p.m. EST on ABC Thursday. Ciara will host the Los Angeles portion, with Big Freedia handling the New Orleans section. Jennifer Lopez, Miley Cyrus, Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, Maluma, Ella Mai, En Vogue, Saweetie and more will perform.
'New Year's Eve Toast & Roast 2021' -- Fox
Ken Jeong and Joel McHale will reunite to host Fox's New Year's Eve Toast & Roast 2021, which starts at 8 p.m. EST Thursday and breaks at 10 p.m. EST before returning at 11 p.m. EST for the final countdown. Masked Singer winner LeAnn RImes will perform, along with Gloria Estefan, Doctor Elvis, David Guetta, John Legend, Green Day and more. Kelly Osbourne will be a special correspondent with Carole Baskin, Mayim Bialik and Tim Allen also making appearances.
Advertisement
'Kylie Minogue's 'Infinite Disco' -- online
Kylie Minogue will once again present her virtual and ticketed Infinite Disco performance for New Year's Eve, which streams online Thursday starting at 9 p.m. EST. Minogue will perform on a dance floor tracks from her newest album Disco, and classics from her catalogue that have been rearranged.
'NBC's New Year's Eve 2021' -- NBC
Carson Daly hosts from Times Square, alongside Julianne Hough and Stephen 'tWitch' Boss, in this NBC New Year's eve special, which airs at 10 p.m. EST on Thursday. The show will break for local news at 11 p.m. EST and return at 11:30 p.m. EST for the signature ball drop. Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, Kylie Minogue, AJR, Busta Rhymes featuring Anderson .Paak, Chloe x Halle, Jason Derulo, Goo Goo Dolls, Pentatonix, Bebe Rexha, Sting and more are set to perform.
'New Year's Eve with Justin Bieber' -- JustinBieberNYE.com
Justin Bieber has teamed up with T-Mobile for a livestream New Year's Eve concert, which begins Thursday at 10:15 p.m. EST on JustinBieberNYE.com. Bieber will start to perform at 11 p.m. EST. T-Mobile customers can view the show for free while others can purchase tickets for $25.
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'Hello 2021' -- YouTube
YouTube is ringing in the new year with this virtual special, which starts Thursday at 10:30 p.m. EST. Dua Lipa, J Balvin, Karol G, YG and Kane Brown will perform. Matthew McConaughey, Demi Lovato, Emma Chamberlain, the D'Amelio Family and YouTube stars will make special appearances.
TV
'Chilling Adventures of Sabrina Part 4' -- Netflix
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina's fourth and final season premieres Thursday on Netflix. Sabrina (Kiernan Shipka) will take on the Eldritch Terrors and get close to her ex-boyfriend Nicholas 'Nick' Scratch (Gavin Leatherwood.)
'Best of Stand-Up 2020' -- Netflix
Netflix will present a compilation of the funniest moments from its collection of comedy specials in Best of Stand-Up 2020, which hits the streaming service on Thursday. Jerry Seinfeld, Leslie Jones, Kevin Hart, Hannah Gadsby and more will be featured.
'RuPaul's Drag Race' Season 13 -- VH1
RuPaul's award-winning reality competition series returns with Season 13, which premieres Friday at 8 p.m. EST on VH1. Thirteen new queens will compete to be crowned the next Drag Race superstar. The first episode will also air on The CW, MTV, MTV2, PopTV and Logo.
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'Cobra Kai' Season 3 -- Netflix
Karate Kid sequel series Cobra Kai is back in action with Season 3, which arrives Friday on Netflix. Johnny (William Zabka) and Daniel (Ralph Macchio) will deal with the violent high school brawl that took place between their dojos that sent Johnny's star student Miguel (Xolo Maridueña) to the hospital.
'Doctor Who: Revolution of the Daleks' -- BBC America
Doctor Who kicks off the new year with a festive special that promises to be an action-packed spectacular. The episode, which arrives Friday at 8 p.m. EST on BBC America, will bring the Doctor (Jodie Whittaker) into contact with a returning Capt. Jack Harkness (John Barrowman). Chris Noth, Harriet Walter and Nathan Stewart-Jarrett also guest star.
'Call Me Kat' -- Fox
Big Bang Theory alum Mayim Bialik returns in Call Me Kat, a new comedy series, which premieres Sunday at 8 p.m. EST on Fox. Bialik portrays Kat, a single, 39-year-old who opens up a cat cafe. Swoosie Kurtz, Kyla Pratt, Leslie Jordan, Cheyenne Jackson and Julian Gant also star.
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'Last Man Standing' Season 9 -- Fox
Tim Allen comedy Last Man Standing is entering its ninth and final season, which premieres Sunday at 8:30 p.m. EST on Fox. The final season has promised to feature Allen's Last Man Standing character Mike Baxter meeting his Home Improvement character Tim Taylor.


upi--2020-12-31--In Photos: Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas turns 25: a look back

Jordyn Wieber ( L to R ) , Douglas , McKayla Maroney , Aly Raisman and Kyla Ross -- members @ @ @ @ @ Gymnastics Team -- are all smiles they listen to the national anthem while wearing their @ @ @ @ @ women 's gymnastics team event at the Summer Olympics in London on July 31 , @ @ @ @ @ Benic/UPI

Jordyn Wieber (L to R), Douglas, McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman and Kyla Ross -- members of, the United States Gymnastics Team -- are all smiles they listen to the national anthem while wearing their gold medals after winning the women's gymnastics team event at the Summer Olympics in London on July 31, 2012. Photo by Pat Benic/UPI


upi--2020-12-31--Chiefs to sit Patrick Mahomes Sunday vs. Chargers

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- The Kansas City Chiefs will be without Patrick Mahomes when they play the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday , as the reigning Super Bowl champions have opted to rest the quarterback for the last game of the regular season .
The Chiefs announced Wednesday that Chad Henne will start on Sunday in Kansas City , Mo .
Chiefs coach Andy Reid said earlier Wednesday he would rest some of the team 's starters before the move became official .
The Chiefs have already secured the No .
1 seed in the AFC and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the challenge of playing the Chargers , '' Reid told reporters .
`` I think it 's a good opportunity for our young guys that have n't had a chance to play to get in and play .
`` I will sit some of the starters and rest them the best I can and get them ready for later .
For now , I 'm excited to let these other guys get in and have the opportunity to play . ''
Henne said he found out he would start on Tuesday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 6 passes for 30 yards in two appearances this season .
He has completed 59.3 % of his throws for 12,990 yards , 58 scores and 63 interceptions in 70 career appearances .
Henne entered the league as a second-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in the 2008 NFL Draft .
`` It has been a while , '' Henne said Wednesday .
`` It 's crazy to think that my last [ start ] was 2014 .
I got all my games in when I was young , then I had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't get any playing time . ''
Mahomes leads the NFL with 4,740 passing yards in 15 starts this season .
He has completed a career-high 66.3 % of his throws for 38 scores and six interceptions for the 14-1 Chiefs .
The Chiefs host the Chargers at 4:25 p.m. EST on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium .

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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes won't play again until the second round of the playoffs after coach Andy Reid opted to give him the day off in Week 17. File Photo by Kyle Rivas/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The Kansas City Chiefs will be without Patrick Mahomes when they play the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, as the reigning Super Bowl champions have opted to rest the quarterback for the last game of the regular season. The Chiefs announced Wednesday that Chad Henne will start on Sunday in Kansas City, Mo. Advertisement
Chiefs coach Andy Reid said earlier Wednesday he would rest some of the team's starters before the move became official. The Chiefs have already secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC and a first-round bye.
"I look forward to the challenge of playing the Chargers," Reid told reporters. "I think it's a good opportunity for our young guys that haven't had a chance to play to get in and play.
"I will sit some of the starters and rest them the best I can and get them ready for later. For now, I'm excited to let these other guys get in and have the opportunity to play."
Henne said he found out he would start on Tuesday. The 11-year veteran has completed 5 of 6 passes for 30 yards in two appearances this season. He has completed 59.3% of his throws for 12,990 yards, 58 scores and 63 interceptions in 70 career appearances.
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Henne entered the league as a second-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in the 2008 NFL Draft.
"It has been a while," Henne said Wednesday. "It's crazy to think that my last [start] was 2014. I got all my games in when I was young, then I had a five- or six-year span where I didn't get any playing time."
Mahomes leads the NFL with 4,740 passing yards in 15 starts this season. He has completed a career-high 66.3% of his throws for 38 scores and six interceptions for the 14-1 Chiefs.
The Chiefs host the Chargers at 4:25 p.m. EST on Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium.
This week in the National Football League


upi--2020-12-31--Watch live: Muted celebrations around the world on New Year's Eve set to ring in 2021

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- The first New Year 's Eve of the coronavirus era begins on Thursday morning with pared-down celebration at Sydney Harbor in Australia and will continue throughout the day at other locations worldwide .
In every other year , millions upon millions of people have turned out in cities worldwide to welcome the new year , particularly in iconic locations like New York City 's Times Square and the Sydney Opera House .
This year , those places will appear largely deserted at the stroke of midnight .
Due to the ongoing pandemic , Sydney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ curb the spread of COVID-19 .
`` It 's pretty empty , you do n't usually see this place with so few people , '' Sydney resident Ezekiel Dioneda told The Sydney Morning Herald .
Sydney was one of the first time zones in the world to enter 2021 , as well as Melbourne , the capital of Canberra and Auckland , New Zealand .
Antarctica was also one of the first places on Earth to begin the new year .
Popular locations throughout Sydney Harbor have been fenced off and a strict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ district was put in place after the city saw a spike in cases .
Sydney 's famous fireworks display will go ahead as normal , but it has been cut to seven minutes and Australians are being encouraged to watch it on television or online .
The next major cities to cross into 2021 are Tokyo , Seoul and Pyongyang ( 10 a.m. EST ) -- followed an hour later by what is usually the a major New Year 's celebration in Hong Kong .
But there , too , things will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong 's Victoria Harbor have been canceled , marking the second consecutive year in which the usually lavish displays have been scrubbed due to tightened physical distancing measures , but the first time it 's related to COVID-19 .
Authorities scaled back last year 's event due to widespread disruptions caused by months of anti-government protests .
India , Afghanistan and the rest of the Middle East enter 2021 in the early afternoon , in U.S. time zones , followed by Russia , Greece , Germany , France and all western European nations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the country are under a strict lockdown , nearly all major fireworks displays have been called off .
Cities including London , Edinburgh , Manchester and Liverpool have also canceled large-scale celebration events .
`` There will not be fireworks at New Year 's Eve like there has been in previous years , '' he said at the time .
`` We simply can not have the number of people who congregate on New Year 's Eve congregating . ''
The new year will next arrive in North America , where perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eve celebration Thursday will be seen in New York City 's Times Square -- long considered by many the cream of the new year 's party crop .
New York City Police Department operations chief Terence Monahan was clear on Wednesday whether would-be partiers would be permitted to watch the famous crystal ball drop on Thursday night .
`` There are absolutely no spectators allowed in Times Square , '' he said at a news briefing .
`` If you think you 're going to be able to stand there and watch the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do n't come .
Watch it at home . ''
Police said that although there have been no credible terror threats , security will be diffuse across the city throughout Thursday and early Friday .
Both pedestrians and vehicles are barred from entering the area around Times Square .
After crossing the continental United States , Mexico and Canada , the final places on Earth to welcome 2021 are Alaska and French Polynesia ( 4 a.m. EST Friday ) , Hawaii ( 5 a.m. EST ) , American Samoa and Midway ( 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlying Pacific islands like Baker and Howland islands ( 7 a.m. EST ) .

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Pedestrians in New York City react as confetti falls from the Hard Rock Cafe marquee on Tuesday, as part of the annual New Year's Eve confetti test in Times Square. Due to the pandemic, Times Square will not be open to the public on Thursday and early Friday. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The first New Year's Eve of the coronavirus era begins on Thursday morning with pared-down celebration at Sydney Harbor in Australia and will continue throughout the day at other locations worldwide. In every other year, millions upon millions of people have turned out in cities worldwide to welcome the new year, particularly in iconic locations like New York City's Times Square and the Sydney Opera House. This year, those places will appear largely deserted at the stroke of midnight. Advertisement
Due to the ongoing pandemic, Sydney authorities have locked down the harbor to curb the spread of COVID-19.
"It's pretty empty, you don't usually see this place with so few people," Sydney resident Ezekiel Dioneda told The Sydney Morning Herald.
Sydney was one of the first time zones in the world to enter 2021, as well as Melbourne, the capital of Canberra and Auckland, New Zealand. Antarctica was also one of the first places on Earth to begin the new year.
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Popular locations throughout Sydney Harbor have been fenced off and a strict permit for the city's central business district was put in place after the city saw a spike in cases.
Sydney's famous fireworks display will go ahead as normal, but it has been cut to seven minutes and Australians are being encouraged to watch it on television or online.
The next major cities to cross into 2021 are Tokyo, Seoul and Pyongyang (10 a.m. EST) -- followed an hour later by what is usually the a major New Year's celebration in Hong Kong. But there, too, things will be far different Thursday.
Fireworks at Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor have been canceled, marking the second consecutive year in which the usually lavish displays have been scrubbed due to tightened physical distancing measures, but the first time it's related to COVID-19.
Authorities scaled back last year's event due to widespread disruptions caused by months of anti-government protests.
India, Afghanistan and the rest of the Middle East enter 2021 in the early afternoon, in U.S. time zones, followed by Russia, Greece, Germany, France and all western European nations.
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In Britain, where many parts of the country are under a strict lockdown, nearly all major fireworks displays have been called off. Cities including London, Edinburgh, Manchester and Liverpool have also canceled large-scale celebration events.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan canceled the celebrations back in September.
"There will not be fireworks at New Year's Eve like there has been in previous years," he said at the time. "We simply cannot have the number of people who congregate on New Year's Eve congregating."
The new year will next arrive in North America, where perhaps the most conspicuously muted New Year's Eve celebration Thursday will be seen in New York City's Times Square -- long considered by many the cream of the new year's party crop.
New York City Police Department operations chief Terence Monahan was clear on Wednesday whether would-be partiers would be permitted to watch the famous crystal ball drop on Thursday night.
"There are absolutely no spectators allowed in Times Square," he said at a news briefing. "If you think you're going to be able to stand there and watch the ball, you're mistaken.
"Don't come. Watch it at home."
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Police said that although there have been no credible terror threats, security will be diffuse across the city throughout Thursday and early Friday. Both pedestrians and vehicles are barred from entering the area around Times Square.
After crossing the continental United States, Mexico and Canada, the final places on Earth to welcome 2021 are Alaska and French Polynesia (4 a.m. EST Friday), Hawaii (5 a.m. EST), American Samoa and Midway (6 a.m. EST), followed finally by outlying Pacific islands like Baker and Howland islands (7 a.m. EST).
Pictures of the Year: top U.S. news images for 2020
President Donald Trump takes off his face mask as he returns to the White House after undergoing treatment for COVID-19 at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on October 5. Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI | License Photo


upi--2020-12-31--Spurs' Becky Hammon makes history as first woman to coach NBA game

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Becky Hammon of the San Antonio Spurs made history as the first woman to coach an NBA regular season game when she filled in for Gregg Popovich after he was ejected during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers .
Hammon , 43 , took over the role with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter of the 121-107 loss on Wednesday at the AT & T Center in Los Angeles .
`` I did not walk into the arena thinking I would be coaching , '' Hammon told reporters .
The Spurs hired Hammon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistant coach in NBA history .
She enjoyed a 16-year career as a WNBA player before she joined the Spurs staff .
Hammon was a six-time All-Star .
`` Obviously , it 's a big deal , '' Hammon said of coaching her first game .
`` It 's a substantial moment .
I 've been a part of this organization , I got traded here in 2007 , so I 've been in San Antonio and part of the Spurs and sports organization with the Stars and everything for 13 years .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ invested , and they have a lot of time invested in me , in building me and getting me better . ''
The Spurs ( 2-2 ) face the Lakers again at 8 p.m. EST on Friday in San Antonio .

The San Antonio Spurs hired assistant Becky Hammon (C) in 2014 and she became the first woman to serve as a head coach in NBA history on Wednesday. Photo by Peter Foley/EPA-EFE
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Becky Hammon of the San Antonio Spurs made history as the first woman to coach an NBA regular season game when she filled in for Gregg Popovich after he was ejected during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Hammon, 43, took over the role with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter of the 121-107 loss on Wednesday at the AT&T Center in Los Angeles. Advertisement
"I did not walk into the arena thinking I would be coaching," Hammon told reporters.
The Spurs hired Hammon in 2014 as a the first female assistant coach in NBA history. She enjoyed a 16-year career as a WNBA player before she joined the Spurs staff. Hammon was a six-time All-Star.
"Obviously, it's a big deal," Hammon said of coaching her first game.
"It's a substantial moment. I've been a part of this organization, I got traded here in 2007, so I've been in San Antonio and part of the Spurs and sports organization with the Stars and everything for 13 years. So I have a lot of time invested, and they have a lot of time invested in me, in building me and getting me better."
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The Spurs (2-2) face the Lakers again at 8 p.m. EST on Friday in San Antonio.


upi--2020-12-31--Google celebrates New Year's Eve with cuckoo clock Doodle

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Google is welcoming 2021 with a New Year 's Eve Doodle on Thursday that @ @ @ @ @ Google 's homepage features the company 's familiar Christmas-themed Doodle that features holiday lights wrapped @ @ @ @ @ A cuckoo clock that has 2020 written on it now sits in the middle of @ @ @ @ @ is also about to hit midnight .
`` It 's been a cuckoo year , @ @ @ @ @ ticking .
The countdown begins now , and when the clock strikes midnight a new @ @ @ @ @ ! ''
Google said , hinting at the Doodle changing at midnight on Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ Year 's Eve into the Google search bar can watch animated confetti fall down their @ @ @ @ @ to the right can be clicked on to make the confetti fall again .
Google @ @ @ @ @ the life of civil rights activist Elizabeth Peratrovich with a new Doodle .
Peratrovich helped @ @ @ @ @ in the United States .

Google is ringing in the new year with a new Doodle that features a cuckoo clock. Image courtesy of Google
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Google is welcoming 2021 with a New Year's Eve Doodle on Thursday that features a cuckoo clock. Google's homepage features the company's familiar Christmas-themed Doodle that features holiday lights wrapped around the Google logo. Advertisement
A cuckoo clock that has 2020 written on it now sits in the middle of the logo. The clock is also about to hit midnight.
"It's been a cuckoo year, but 2020's clock is ticking. The countdown begins now, and when the clock strikes midnight a new year will spread its wings!" Google said, hinting at the Doodle changing at midnight on Thursday.
Users who type in New Year's Eve into the Google search bar can watch animated confetti fall down their screen. A cone located to the right can be clicked on to make the confetti fall again.
Google, on Wednesday, celebrated the life of civil rights activist Elizabeth Peratrovich with a new Doodle. Peratrovich helped pass the first anti-discrimination law in the United States.


upi--2020-12-31--Trump to return to White House early from Mar-a-Lago vacation

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump is expected cut short his vacation in Florida over the winter holiday to return to the White House on Thursday .
Trump was scheduled to return to Washington , D.C. , on Friday , but he will now be leaving his Palm Beach , Fla. , Mar-a-Lago resort for the White House at 11 a.m. , according to his daily schedule , which was released late Wednesday .
His return to Washington means he will not be in the Sunshine State for the annual New Year 's Eve party held at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Melania Trump had left the White House for on Dec. 23 .
His return comes ahead of the final day of the Georgia runoff election on Tuesday and the certification process of election results on Wednesday -- two issues that Trump has repeatedly mentioned on Twitter during his vacation .
He has also complained about Georgia officials for not overturning the state 's election results but has been quiet on the recent revelation of a wide-ranging Russian cyberattack and the suicide bombing of Nashville .
On Sunday , Trump announced he will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday to support two Republican candidates in a runoff that sees control of the Senate at jeopardy .
If both Republican Sens .
David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler lose to Democratic challengers Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock , respectively , the balance of the Senate will fall to the Democrats .
He has also continued to rail against results that show he lost last month 's presidential election to former vice president and current President-Elect Joe Biden .
His re-election campaign has litigiously worked to invalidate the results but it has had every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its favor , and during his stay at Mar-a-Lago , Trump has continued to tweet widely discredited claims of voter fraud , claiming on Wednesday that Biden received millions of `` fake votes '' without providing proof .
The electoral votes are to be counted by Congress next week in what is typically a ceremonial and procedural affair that will be overseen by Vice President Mike Pence , but Sen. Josh Hawley , R-Mo.
, threatened to complicate the process on Wednesday when he announced he will object the votes ' certification .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay in Florida cryptically tweeted about being in Washington on Wednesday .
`` See you in Washington , D.C. , on Jan. 6 , '' he tweeted on Monday .
`` Do n't miss it .
More information to follow . ''
`` JANUARY SIXTH , SEE YOU IN DC ! ''
he tweeted Wednesday evening .
Several House Republicans have said they will object to the certification of results on that day , but Hawley is the first Senator to say he would join them .
At least one member of each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process to include a debate period , though it is highly doubtful it will lead to an overturning of the election as majorities in both the House and Senate would have to vote to do so .
Rick Hanson , a law profession at the University of California , Irvine , wrote on his blog , `` I do n't expect this to make a difference in the outcome , but rather only extend the day as the chambers of Congress consider objections . ''

United States President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump depart the White House in Washington, D.C., on December 23 for his Florida Mar-a-Lago resort. Photo by Chris Kleponis/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump is expected cut short his vacation in Florida over the winter holiday to return to the White House on Thursday. Trump was scheduled to return to Washington, D.C., on Friday, but he will now be leaving his Palm Beach, Fla., Mar-a-Lago resort for the White House at 11 a.m., according to his daily schedule, which was released late Wednesday. Advertisement
His return to Washington means he will not be in the Sunshine State for the annual New Year's Eve party held at his club, which he and lady Melania Trump had left the White House for on Dec. 23.
His return comes ahead of the final day of the Georgia runoff election on Tuesday and the certification process of election results on Wednesday -- two issues that Trump has repeatedly mentioned on Twitter during his vacation.
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He has also complained about Georgia officials for not overturning the state's election results but has been quiet on the recent revelation of a wide-ranging Russian cyberattack and the suicide bombing of Nashville.
On Sunday, Trump announced he will be speaking at a rally in Georgia on Monday to support two Republican candidates in a runoff that sees control of the Senate at jeopardy.
If both Republican Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler lose to Democratic challengers Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, respectively, the balance of the Senate will fall to the Democrats.
He has also continued to rail against results that show he lost last month's presidential election to former vice president and current President-Elect Joe Biden.
His re-election campaign has litigiously worked to invalidate the results but it has had every single case it has filed ruled against its favor, and during his stay at Mar-a-Lago, Trump has continued to tweet widely discredited claims of voter fraud, claiming on Wednesday that Biden received millions of "fake votes" without providing proof.
The electoral votes are to be counted by Congress next week in what is typically a ceremonial and procedural affair that will be overseen by Vice President Mike Pence, but Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., threatened to complicate the process on Wednesday when he announced he will object the votes' certification.
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The president has several times during his stay in Florida cryptically tweeted about being in Washington on Wednesday.
"See you in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6," he tweeted on Monday. "Don't miss it. More information to follow."
"JANUARY SIXTH, SEE YOU IN DC!" he tweeted Wednesday evening.
Several House Republicans have said they will object to the certification of results on that day, but Hawley is the first Senator to say he would join them.
At least one member of each house must object to cause the ceremonial process to include a debate period, though it is highly doubtful it will lead to an overturning of the election as majorities in both the House and Senate would have to vote to do so.
Rick Hanson, a law profession at the University of California, Irvine, wrote on his blog, "I don't expect this to make a difference in the outcome, but rather only extend the day as the chambers of Congress consider objections."


upi--2020-12-31--U.S. warships travel Taiwan Strait; China warns against show of force

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- For the second time this month , U.S. warships on Thursday sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait , prompting China to denounce the `` provocative actions . ''
The United States said guided-missile destroyers USS John S. McCain and USS Curtis Wilbur conducted a routine transit through the strait between eastern Nationalist China and the democratically run island of Taiwan that China views as a rouge province .
`` The ship 's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific , '' the U.S. Navy 's 7th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The United States military will continue to fly , sail and operate wherever international law allows . ''
Taiwan 's Ministry of Defense confirmed the trip , saying in a statement that the U.S. ships traveled north through the strait from the South China Sea on Thursday morning .
It is the second time the 7th Fleet has sent vessels down the strait this month after the USS Mustin made the trip on Dec. 19 .
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Senior Col. Wu Qian accused the United States of attempting to `` flex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In the statement , Wu said the United States was sending `` erroneous signals to the 'Taiwan Independence ' forces and severely jeopardized peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait . ''
Naval and air forces were deployed to conduct tracking and monitoring of the two U.S. destroyers , Wu said , stressing that the People 's Liberation Army is on high alert and is `` ready to respond to any threats and provocations '' to safeguard China 's sovereignty .

Guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain was one of two U.S. warships to transit through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday morning. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Markus Castaneda/7th Fleet/ Website
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- For the second time this month, U.S. warships on Thursday sailed through the sensitive Taiwan Strait, prompting China to denounce the "provocative actions." The United States said guided-missile destroyers USS John S. McCain and USS Curtis Wilbur conducted a routine transit through the strait between eastern Nationalist China and the democratically run island of Taiwan that China views as a rouge province. Advertisement
"The ship's transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet said in a statement. "The United States military will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows."
Taiwan's Ministry of Defense confirmed the trip, saying in a statement that the U.S. ships traveled north through the strait from the South China Sea on Thursday morning.
It is the second time the 7th Fleet has sent vessels down the strait this month after the USS Mustin made the trip on Dec. 19.
Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson Senior Col. Wu Qian accused the United States of attempting to "flex muscles and stir up troubles."
In the statement, Wu said the United States was sending "erroneous signals to the 'Taiwan Independence' forces and severely jeopardized peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait."
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Naval and air forces were deployed to conduct tracking and monitoring of the two U.S. destroyers, Wu said, stressing that the People's Liberation Army is on high alert and is "ready to respond to any threats and provocations" to safeguard China's sovereignty.


upi--2020-12-31--Individualized exercise best for easing lower back pain, study says

Chronic lower back pain can make the most routine tasks difficult .
But a new study suggests patients can learn new , practical and less painful ways to move through individualized `` motor skills training , '' or MST .
A two-year study of nearly 150 patients found that MST appears to better relieve disability from lower back pain than a more common but less-tailored exercise regimen broadly focused on improving strength and flexibility .
`` Our findings suggest that motor skill training in functional activities is an effective and efficient treatment that results in important short-term and long-term improvement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back pain , '' said study lead author Linda Van Dillen .
She 's a professor of physical therapy at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine .
Lower back pain is incredibly common , and the No .
1 cause of disability , according to Van Dillen .
It is the most frequent cause of chronic pain among American adults .
Van Dillen notes that at least 60 % to 80 % of adults will experience lower back pain , and `` almost half of them will have had a major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is no accepted standard of care for chronic lower back pain patients , nor a clear sense of what type of exercise intervention might work best , researchers said .
To get a better handle on the issue , Van Dillen 's team focused on a pool of patients diagnosed with what is known as `` non-specific '' lower back pain .
That means they have tension , stiffness and/or soreness in the lower back area for which there is no clear cause .
Before the study began in December 2013 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain for at least a year .
Participants , who ranged in age from 18 to 60 , were randomly divided into two groups .
One group received `` strength and flexibility treatment for the trunk and lower limbs '' -- a common exercise intervention , according to Van Dillen .
The other group took part in MST , which teaches patients new ways to carry out everyday tasks rendered difficult by back pain .
MST aims to zero in on each patient 's personal posture and movements throughout an entire day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their specific routines .
Both groups received six weeks of training for one hour per week .
Half of each group also received three `` booster '' treatment sessions six months later .
Disability questionnaires were completed at the outset , and at six months and one year out .
While both groups ' ability to perform daily functions without pain improved , the MST group achieved `` significantly '' better gains ( meaning lower disability scores ) over the study period .
MST patients were more satisfied with their care and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain .
They were also less fearful of addressing work-related needs , and less likely to avoid normal daily activities , the study found .
Six months out , MST patients had fewer acute back pain flare-ups and were more likely to keep up with their exercises .
And after a year , when their back pain flared up , it was less severe , researchers said .
Dr. Daniel Park , an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Rochester , Mich. , reviewed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be seen just how much better MST is compared to more common interventions .
While Park said the findings appear to be statistically significant and support the benefit of therapy on back pain , he stopped short of saying the researchers had shown `` meaningful improvement . ''
`` I think any structured therapy can be beneficial , because you want the muscles moving and working to help with back pain , '' Park said .
`` We used to think rest and relaxation was better .
But studies show only short-term rest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest too long , you can have worse outcomes . ''
As a result , he added , many doctors advise patients to rest for the short term and then to begin exercising to help the muscles .
The findings were published this week online in JAMA Neurology .
Learn more about lower back pain at the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke .

Chronic lower back pain can make the most routine tasks difficult. But a new study suggests patients can learn new, practical and less painful ways to move through individualized "motor skills training," or MST.
A two-year study of nearly 150 patients found that MST appears to better relieve disability from lower back pain than a more common but less-tailored exercise regimen broadly focused on improving strength and flexibility.
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"Our findings suggest that motor skill training in functional activities is an effective and efficient treatment that results in important short-term and long-term improvement in function in people with chronic low back pain," said study lead author Linda Van Dillen. She's a professor of physical therapy at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine.
Lower back pain is incredibly common, and the No. 1 cause of disability, according to Van Dillen. It is the most frequent cause of chronic pain among American adults.
Advertisement
Van Dillen notes that at least 60% to 80% of adults will experience lower back pain, and "almost half of them will have had a major episode by age 30."
Yet there is no accepted standard of care for chronic lower back pain patients, nor a clear sense of what type of exercise intervention might work best, researchers said.
To get a better handle on the issue, Van Dillen's team focused on a pool of patients diagnosed with what is known as "non-specific" lower back pain. That means they have tension, stiffness and/or soreness in the lower back area for which there is no clear cause.
Before the study began in December 2013, all participants had struggled with lower back pain for at least a year.
Participants, who ranged in age from 18 to 60, were randomly divided into two groups. One group received "strength and flexibility treatment for the trunk and lower limbs" -- a common exercise intervention, according to Van Dillen.
The other group took part in MST, which teaches patients new ways to carry out everyday tasks rendered difficult by back pain.
MST aims to zero in on each patient's personal posture and movements throughout an entire day, and then to tailor pain-free movement strategies to their specific routines.
Advertisement
Both groups received six weeks of training for one hour per week. Half of each group also received three "booster" treatment sessions six months later. Disability questionnaires were completed at the outset, and at six months and one year out.
While both groups' ability to perform daily functions without pain improved, the MST group achieved "significantly" better gains (meaning lower disability scores) over the study period.
MST patients were more satisfied with their care and less likely to use drugs for back pain. They were also less fearful of addressing work-related needs, and less likely to avoid normal daily activities, the study found.
Six months out, MST patients had fewer acute back pain flare-ups and were more likely to keep up with their exercises. And after a year, when their back pain flared up, it was less severe, researchers said.
Dr. Daniel Park, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in Rochester, Mich., reviewed the findings.
He said it remains to be seen just how much better MST is compared to more common interventions.
While Park said the findings appear to be statistically significant and support the benefit of therapy on back pain, he stopped short of saying the researchers had shown "meaningful improvement."
Advertisement
"I think any structured therapy can be beneficial, because you want the muscles moving and working to help with back pain," Park said. "We used to think rest and relaxation was better. But studies show only short-term rest is beneficial, and actually if you rest too long, you can have worse outcomes."
As a result, he added, many doctors advise patients to rest for the short term and then to begin exercising to help the muscles.
The findings were published this week online in JAMA Neurology.
Learn more about lower back pain at the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-12-31--Famous birthdays for Dec. 31: Gabby Douglas, Hunter Schafer

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Those born on this date are under the sign of Capricorn .
-- Rock @ @ @ @ @ member Andy Summers in 1942 ( age 78 ) -- Rock and Roll Hall of @ @ @ @ @ 1943 -- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Donna Summer in 1948

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Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas attends Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Sports Awards at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion in Los Angeles on July 13, 2017. She turns 25 on December 31. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Those born on this date are under the sign of Capricorn. They include: Advertisement
-- Pope Callixtus III, born Alfonso de Borgia, in 1378
-- Charles Edward Stuart, Scotland's "Bonnie Prince Charlie," in 1720
-- French painter Henri Matisse in 1869
-- Businesswoman Elizabeth Arden, born Florence Nightingale Graham, in 1878
-- U.S. Army Gen. George Marshall in 1880
-- Songwriter Jule Styne in 1905
-- Saudi King Salman in 1935 (age 85)
-- Actor Anthony Hopkins in 1937 (age 83)
File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI
-- Actor Sarah Miles in 1941 (age 79)
-- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Andy Summers in 1942 (age 78)
-- Actor Ben Kingsley in 1943 (age 77)
-- Singer/songwriter John Denver in 1943
-- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Pete Quaife in 1943
-- Fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg in 1946 (age 74)
-- Rock singer Burton Cummings in 1947 (age 73)
-- Actor Tim Matheson in 1947 (age 73)
-- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Donna Summer in 1948
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-- Actor Bebe Neuwirth in 1958 (age 62)
File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI
-- Actor Val Kilmer in 1959 (age 61)
-- Writer Nicholas Sparks in 1965 (age 55)
-- Singer Joe McIntyre in 1972 (age 48)
-- Donald Trump Jr., businessman/son of President Donald Trump, in 1977 (age 43)
-- Singer/dancer Psy, born Park Jae-sang, in 1977 (age 43)
-- Actor Ricky Whittle in 1981 (age 39)
-- Canadian Olympic gold medal winning figure skater Patrick Chan in 1990 (age 30)
-- Olympic gold medal winning gymnast Gabby Douglas in 1995 (age 25)
-- Actor Nadia Parkes in 1995 (age 25)
-- Actor Hunter Schafer in 1999 (age 21)


upi--2020-12-31--Week 17 NFL games to cement postseason picture

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Week 17 provides an abundance of scenarios for which teams miss and make the NFL playoffs , but also determines the top seeds and teams that receive byes from the AFC and NFC .
This year , 14 teams will participate in the NFL postseason , up from 12 in previous seasons .
Seven teams will make the playoffs from each conference .
So far , three teams from the AFC and five teams from the NFC have clinched playoff berths .
Just one team from each conference will earn first-round byes in 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs have clinched the top seed and first-round bye for the AFC .
The Chiefs also are heavy favorites to repeat as champions .
Most sports betting websites also list the Green Bay Packers , New Orleans Saints , Buffalo Bills , Tampa Bay Buccaneers , Seattle Seahawks , Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers as top contenders to win Super Bowl LV .
All 16 NFL games for Week 17 take place Sunday .
The NFL playoffs start Jan. 9 , and the Super Bowl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Fla. Fourteen teams have been eliminated from playoff contention and do n't have much to play for in Week 17 , other than draft position .
Here is what the other 16 teams must do in the final week of the regular season to make the playoffs or clinch a top seed : Note : Ties , which are very rare in the NFL , have been eliminated from these scenarios to simplify playoff berths requirements .
No .
2 Bills -- Beat Dolphins or Steelers loss for No .
2 seed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Bills loss for No .
2 seed No .
4 Titans -- Beat Texans or Colts loss for AFC South title , playoff berth ; Ravens loss or Dolphins loss to clinch berth No .
5 Dolphins -- Beat Bills or Ravens loss or Browns loss or Colts loss to clinch berth No .
6 Ravens -- Beat Bengals or Browns loss or Colts loss to clinch berth No .
7 Browns -- Beat Steelers or Colts loss or Titans loss + Dolphins win + Ravens win No .
8 Colts -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South title , playoff berth ; Beat Jaguars + Ravens loss or beat Jaguars + Browns loss or beat Jaguars + Dolphins loss to clinch berth No .
1 Packers -- Beat Bears or Seahawks loss for No .
1 seed and first-round bye No .
2 Saints -- Beat Panthers + Packers loss + 49ers win for No .
1 seed and first-round bye No .
3 Seahawks -- Beat 49ers + Packers loss + Saints loss for No .
1 seed and first-round bye No .
5 Buccaneers -- Beat Falcons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 seed No .
6 Rams -- Beat Cardinals or Bears loss to clinch berth No .
7 Bears -- Beat Packers or Cardinals loss to clinch berth No .
9 Cowboys -- Beat Giants and Washington for NFC East title , playoff berth Falcons ( 4-11 ) at Buccaneers ( 10-5 ) at 1 p.m. EST on Fox Cowboys ( 6-9 ) at Giants ( 5-10 ) at 1 p.m. EST on Fox Jets ( 2-13 ) at Patriots ( 6-9 ) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS Vikings ( 6-9 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p.m. EST on Fox Steelers ( 12-3 ) at Browns ( 10-5 ) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS Ravens ( 10-5 ) at Bengals ( 4-10-1 ) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS Dolphins ( 10-5 ) at Bills ( 12-3 ) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS Seahawks ( 11-4 ) at 49ers ( 6-9 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox Cardinals ( 8-7 ) at Rams ( 9-6 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS Jaguars ( 1-14 ) at Colts ( 10-5 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 4-11 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS Raiders ( 7-8 ) at Broncos ( 5-10 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS Chargers ( 6-9 ) at Chiefs ( 14-1 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox Packers ( 12-3 ) at Bears ( 8-7 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox Saints ( 11-4 ) at Panthers ( 5-10 ) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox Washington ( 6-9 ) at Eagles ( 4-10-1 ) at 8:20 p.m. EST on NBC

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Quarterback Andy Dalton and the Dallas Cowboys (6-9) still can make the playoffs if they beat the New York Giants and if the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Washington Football Team in Week 17. File Photo by David Tulis/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Week 17 provides an abundance of scenarios for which teams miss and make the NFL playoffs, but also determines the top seeds and teams that receive byes from the AFC and NFC. This year, 14 teams will participate in the NFL postseason, up from 12 in previous seasons. Seven teams will make the playoffs from each conference. So far, three teams from the AFC and five teams from the NFC have clinched playoff berths. Advertisement
Just one team from each conference will earn first-round byes in 2020 as part of the restructured playoff format. The reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs have clinched the top seed and first-round bye for the AFC.
The Chiefs also are heavy favorites to repeat as champions.
Most sports betting websites also list the Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, Buffalo Bills, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers as top contenders to win Super Bowl LV.
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All 16 NFL games for Week 17 take place Sunday. The NFL playoffs start Jan. 9, and the Super Bowl is scheduled for Feb. 7 in Tampa, Fla.
Fourteen teams have been eliminated from playoff contention and don't have much to play for in Week 17, other than draft position.
Here is what the other 16 teams must do in the final week of the regular season to make the playoffs or clinch a top seed:
NFL playoff scenarios
Note: Ties, which are very rare in the NFL, have been eliminated from these scenarios to simplify playoff berths requirements.
AFC
Clinched playoff berth
No. 1 Chiefs -- Clinched top seed, first-round bye
No. 2 Bills -- Beat Dolphins or Steelers loss for No. 2 seed
No. 3 Steelers -- Beat Browns and Bills loss for No. 2 seed
Haven't clinched
No. 4 Titans -- Beat Texans or Colts loss for AFC South title, playoff berth; Ravens loss or Dolphins loss to clinch berth
No. 5 Dolphins -- Beat Bills or Ravens loss or Browns loss or Colts loss to clinch berth
No. 6 Ravens -- Beat Bengals or Browns loss or Colts loss to clinch berth
No. 7 Browns -- Beat Steelers or Colts loss or Titans loss + Dolphins win + Ravens win
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No. 8 Colts -- Beat Jaguars and Titans loss for AFC South title, playoff berth; Beat Jaguars + Ravens loss or beat Jaguars + Browns loss or beat Jaguars + Dolphins loss to clinch berth
NFC
Clinched playoff berth
No. 1 Packers -- Beat Bears or Seahawks loss for No. 1 seed and first-round bye
No. 2 Saints -- Beat Panthers + Packers loss + 49ers win for No. 1 seed and first-round bye
No. 3 Seahawks -- Beat 49ers + Packers loss + Saints loss for No. 1 seed and first-round bye
No. 5 Buccaneers -- Beat Falcons or Rams loss to clinch No. 5 seed
Haven't clinched
No. 4 Washington -- Beat Eagles for NFC East title, playoff berth
No. 6 Rams -- Beat Cardinals or Bears loss to clinch berth
No. 7 Bears -- Beat Packers or Cardinals loss to clinch berth
No. 8 Cardinals -- Beat Rams to clinch berth
No. 9 Cowboys -- Beat Giants and Washington for NFC East title, playoff berth
No. 10 Giants -- Beat Cowboys + Washington loss for NFC East title, playoff berth
Week 17 schedule
Sunday
Falcons (4-11) at Buccaneers (10-5) at 1 p.m. EST on Fox
Cowboys (6-9) at Giants (5-10) at 1 p.m. EST on Fox
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Jets (2-13) at Patriots (6-9) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS
Vikings (6-9) at Lions (5-10) at 1 p.m. EST on Fox
Steelers (12-3) at Browns (10-5) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS
Ravens (10-5) at Bengals (4-10-1) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS
Dolphins (10-5) at Bills (12-3) at 1 p.m. EST on CBS
Seahawks (11-4) at 49ers (6-9) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox
Cardinals (8-7) at Rams (9-6) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS
Jaguars (1-14) at Colts (10-5) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS
Titans (10-5) at Texans (4-11) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS
Raiders (7-8) at Broncos (5-10) at 4:25 p.m. EST on CBS
Chargers (6-9) at Chiefs (14-1) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox
Packers (12-3) at Bears (8-7) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox
Saints (11-4) at Panthers (5-10) at 4:25 p.m. EST on Fox
Washington (6-9) at Eagles (4-10-1) at 8:20 p.m. EST on NBC
This week in the National Football League


upi--2020-12-31--William Zabka: 'Cobra Kai' is bringing families together

NEW YORK , Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- William Zabka says he 's happy fans found comfort and inspiration by watching his Karate Kid sequel series , Cobra Kai , during the coronavirus pandemic .
The half-hour , action-dramedy picks up more than 30 years after California high-school rivals Johnny Lawrence ( Zabka ) and Daniel LaRusso ( Ralph Macchio ) competed at the All Valley Karate Tournament .
Now in their 50s , down-on-his-luck Johnny and wealthy hotshot Daniel are martial arts instructors with their own dojos where they mentor teens using vastly different teaching and fight techniques @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 , but exploded in popularity when Netflix released its first two seasons this past August -- while many people were stuck at home because of COVID-19 restrictions .
`` The pandemic has kept everybody locked down , in a sense , inside , and to have the show enter their living rooms with these characters they 've known all these years , decades , was a little bit of comfort food , '' Zabka said in a recent Zoom interview with reporters .
`` Cobra Kai has been definitely good popcorn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Those who tuned in were surprised to discover the show is much more than a nostalgia kick .
It also is a funny and insightful underdog story that explores complicated parental relationships , bullying and wealth disparity .
`` It 's not just good and evil and black and white , '' he added , referring to how Johnny was long regarded as Daniel 's tormentor , but is now being seen in a more sympathetic new light , '' Zabka said .
He added : `` There are shades of gray @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world through different people 's points of view and try to come to some understanding and balance .
On the backs of entertainment and some badass karate and some '80s music , it 's a feel-good show that is bringing families together . ''
Zabka said that even before the pandemic , fans told him the series had impacted their lives , whether it encouraged them to give up drinking or take karate lessons .
`` I 'd get so many people telling me , ' I have n't talked to my brother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this show is inspiring me to reach out and it 's brought us back together , ' '' Zabka said .
`` As an artist , to make an impact and have that kind of response is incredible . ''
Mary Mouser , who plays Daniel 's pampered daughter Samantha , said she believes teens and young adults are attracted to the show , in part , because of the way it deals with power dynamics amid the haves and have-nots in high school .
`` This up-and-coming generation , specifically , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world than I think I did at that moment in my life , and that 's exciting and it makes me want to challenge myself to learn and try harder , '' Mouser said in a separate Zoom chat with co-star Peyton List and reporters .
Mouser also said young fans are coming to her with `` tough questions '' that make her think deeply about how Samantha 's wealth and her nemesis Tory 's poverty put them on a collision course .
List plays Tory , Johnny 's former karate student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incites a mass karate brawl at school that injures Miguel and Samantha at the end of Season 2 .
`` It 's super-relevant right now .
We see with social media the huge divide there is -- politically , economically , socially , '' List said .
`` Cobra Kai is oddly commenting on a lot of that . ''
`` Cobra Kai does a good job of showing everyone has a story .
No matter how bad you have it or how privileged you are , everyone is going through something , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of us to be able to communicate through the show .
Hopefully , it brings more of us together to have those conversations , '' she said .
Xolo Mariduena , who plays Johnny 's star student and surrogate son , Miguel , and Jacob Bertrand , who plays Miguel 's former friend , Hawk , are enjoying how the show plays with the notion that someone can be a hero or a bully depending on someone else 's perspective .
`` Both of those phrases are pretty subjective , '' Mariduena @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noting he thinks that in real life , nowadays , bullying is more of an online than in-person scourge .
`` In terms of bullies and heroes , I think our show really blurs the line between the two , '' Mariduena said .
`` At some points , there are some pretty distinct bullies and pretty distinct heroes , but that is the joy of the show .
Jacob gets to play the hero with Demetri and also the bully with Demetri .
I have that moment with Robby . ''
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letting you know everyone 's motives , '' Bertrand chimed in about the show 's writers , noting if the characters would just talk to each other and explain where they are coming from , `` A lot of this probably would n't happen . ''
Vanessa Rubio plays Carmen , who is Miguel 's hard-working mom , Johnny 's neighbor and a grounding force amid all the conflict in the Cobra Kai .
`` She has a lot of dignity and drive and ability to overcome obstacles and keep her life going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Rubio told UPI in a phone interview .
It was important for the actress to authentically portray a mother caught between supporting her son 's pursuit of excellence in karate and her fear for his safety .
`` We meet her in the beginning of Season 1 , and she is pretty fiercely protective of him , but she realizes through these events that he is growing up and he 's becoming a man .
He needs male guidance and he needs to explore and make mistakes , '' Rubio said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the reins on her ability to mother him as she used to , but doing it still with a lot of grace and intelligence . ''
Season 3 sees Carmen and Johnny growing closer as Miguel recovers from his injuries after the fight .
The relationship has been an interesting journey because it means Rubio is part of a Johnny redemption story decades after he was painted as a villain .
`` [ His redemption ] does seem well-earned .
Back when we all watched The Karate Kid , it would be like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnny 's side ! '
'' Rubio laughed .
`` Now , it 's like we can see this with these real-life eyes , '' she added .
`` Everyone has their light and dark side .
You just have to find the balance . ''
Cobra Kai already has been renewed for Season 4 .

1/3
"Cobra Kai" Season 3, starring William Zabka (L) and Ralph Macchio, is set to debut on Netflix Friday. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
NEW YORK, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- William Zabka says he's happy fans found comfort and inspiration by watching his Karate Kid sequel series, Cobra Kai, during the coronavirus pandemic. The half-hour, action-dramedy picks up more than 30 years after California high-school rivals Johnny Lawrence (Zabka) and Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) competed at the All Valley Karate Tournament. Advertisement
Now in their 50s, down-on-his-luck Johnny and wealthy hotshot Daniel are martial arts instructors with their own dojos where they mentor teens using vastly different teaching and fight techniques.
Cobra Kai quietly debuted on YouTube in 2018, but exploded in popularity when Netflix released its first two seasons this past August -- while many people were stuck at home because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Season 3 starts streaming Friday.
"The pandemic has kept everybody locked down, in a sense, inside, and to have the show enter their living rooms with these characters they've known all these years, decades, was a little bit of comfort food," Zabka said in a recent Zoom interview with reporters. "Cobra Kai has been definitely good popcorn for the world during this time."
Advertisement
Those who tuned in were surprised to discover the show is much more than a nostalgia kick. It also is a funny and insightful underdog story that explores complicated parental relationships, bullying and wealth disparity.
Zabka thinks those themes make Cobra Kai relevant for today's viewers.
"It's not just good and evil and black and white," he added, referring to how Johnny was long regarded as Daniel's tormentor, but is now being seen in a more sympathetic new light," Zabka said.
He added: "There are shades of gray, and we should look at the world through different people's points of view and try to come to some understanding and balance. On the backs of entertainment and some badass karate and some '80s music, it's a feel-good show that is bringing families together."
Zabka said that even before the pandemic, fans told him the series had impacted their lives, whether it encouraged them to give up drinking or take karate lessons.
"I'd get so many people telling me, 'I haven't talked to my brother or my father or my son and this show is inspiring me to reach out and it's brought us back together,'" Zabka said. "As an artist, to make an impact and have that kind of response is incredible."
Advertisement
Mary Mouser, who plays Daniel's pampered daughter Samantha, said she believes teens and young adults are attracted to the show, in part, because of the way it deals with power dynamics amid the haves and have-nots in high school.
"This up-and-coming generation, specifically, is woke and knows a lot more about the world than I think I did at that moment in my life, and that's exciting and it makes me want to challenge myself to learn and try harder," Mouser said in a separate Zoom chat with co-star Peyton List and reporters.
Mouser also said young fans are coming to her with "tough questions" that make her think deeply about how Samantha's wealth and her nemesis Tory's poverty put them on a collision course.
List plays Tory, Johnny's former karate student and an angry, jealous girl who incites a mass karate brawl at school that injures Miguel and Samantha at the end of Season 2.
"It's super-relevant right now. We see with social media the huge divide there is -- politically, economically, socially," List said. "Cobra Kai is oddly commenting on a lot of that."
"Cobra Kai does a good job of showing everyone has a story. No matter how bad you have it or how privileged you are, everyone is going through something, and I think it's good for all of us to be able to communicate through the show. Hopefully, it brings more of us together to have those conversations," she said.
Advertisement
Xolo Mariduena, who plays Johnny's star student and surrogate son, Miguel, and Jacob Bertrand, who plays Miguel's former friend, Hawk, are enjoying how the show plays with the notion that someone can be a hero or a bully depending on someone else's perspective.
"Both of those phrases are pretty subjective," Mariduena said in another virtual roundtable interview, noting he thinks that in real life, nowadays, bullying is more of an online than in-person scourge.
"In terms of bullies and heroes, I think our show really blurs the line between the two," Mariduena said.
"At some points, there are some pretty distinct bullies and pretty distinct heroes, but that is the joy of the show. Jacob gets to play the hero with Demetri and also the bully with Demetri. I have that moment with Robby."
"They do a really good job of letting you know everyone's motives," Bertrand chimed in about the show's writers, noting if the characters would just talk to each other and explain where they are coming from, "A lot of this probably wouldn't happen."
Vanessa Rubio plays Carmen, who is Miguel's hard-working mom, Johnny's neighbor and a grounding force amid all the conflict in the Cobra Kai.
Advertisement
"She has a lot of dignity and drive and ability to overcome obstacles and keep her life going at a good clip with good intentions," Rubio told UPI in a phone interview.
It was important for the actress to authentically portray a mother caught between supporting her son's pursuit of excellence in karate and her fear for his safety.
"We meet her in the beginning of Season 1, and she is pretty fiercely protective of him, but she realizes through these events that he is growing up and he's becoming a man. He needs male guidance and he needs to explore and make mistakes," Rubio said.
"So she is definitely loosening the reins on her ability to mother him as she used to, but doing it still with a lot of grace and intelligence."
Season 3 sees Carmen and Johnny growing closer as Miguel recovers from his injuries after the fight. The relationship has been an interesting journey because it means Rubio is part of a Johnny redemption story decades after he was painted as a villain.
"[His redemption] does seem well-earned. Back when we all watched The Karate Kid, it would be like, 'No way would we be on Johnny's side!'" Rubio laughed.
Advertisement
"Now, it's like we can see this with these real-life eyes," she added. "Everyone has their light and dark side. You just have to find the balance."
Cobra Kai already has been renewed for Season 4.
Cobra Kai Season 3 now drops JANUARY 1 only on Netflix. So QUIET! Happy Holidays, dorks. - Johnny Lawrence pic.twitter.com/0YTiJ6vZOO— Cobra Kai (@CobraKaiSeries) December 24, 2020


upi--2020-12-31--On This Day, Dec. 31: China reports pneumonia cluster in early days of COVID-19 pandemic

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- On this date in history : In 1862 , the Union ironclad ship USS Monitor sank off Cape Hatteras , N.C. , during a storm .
Sixteen members of the crew were lost .
In 1879 , Thomas Edison gave the first public demonstration of his incandescent lamp -- in Menlo Park , N.J .
In 1929 , Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians did their first New Year 's Eve broadcast from the Roosevelt Grill in New York City .
In 1947 , America 's favorite Western movie couple , singing cowboy Roy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ married .
In 1968 , the Soviet Union tested its supersonic airliner , the TU-144 , months before the Anglo-French Concorde .
In 1972 , Pittsburgh Pirates great Roberto Clemente and four other people died in a cargo plane crash en route to deliver supplies to earthquake-stricken Nicaragua .
The plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean shortly after takeoff from Puerto Rico .
In 1983 , the court-ordered breakup of the American Telephone and Telegraph Co. took effect .
In 1983 , a bloodless military coup overthrew Nigerian President Shehu Shagari 's government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buhari .
In 1985 , fire broke out on a chartered DC-3 aircraft and it crashed in northeastern Texas , killing rock singer Rick Nelson , his fiancee and five band members .
In 1988 , the Chicago Bears defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 20-12 in the so-called `` Fog Bowl , '' when thick fog shrouded Chicago 's Soldier Field .
In 1994 , Russian forces launched a full air and ground attack on Grozny , the capital city of the rebel republic of Chechnya .
In 1997 , the Algerian government announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ massacred by Islamic extremists during the last nine days of December .
In 1999 , Panama assumed full control of the Panama Canal .
In 1999 , Boris Yeltsin resigned as president of Russia , leaving Vladimir Putin acting president .
In 2004 , authorities in Buenos Aires reported at least 175 deaths and hundreds of injuries in a fire at a crowded nightclub .
A government official said , `` Only two exits were open ; the others were tied up with wire .
These young people were doomed in a death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Bulgaria joined the European Union , increasing its membership to 27 countries .
In 2014 , Beji Caid Essebsi becomes Tunisia 's first freely elected president .
The country 's Parliament ousted him 18 months later with a vote of no confidence .
In 2019 , the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission in China first reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia .
Epidemiologists later identified the cause of the diseases as a novel coronavirus .
The COVID-19 pandemic killed more than 1.7 million people across the globe in 2019 .

1/4
On December 31, 2019, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission in China first reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia in what would become the COVID-19 pandemic. File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- On this date in history: In 1862, the Union ironclad ship USS Monitor sank off Cape Hatteras, N.C., during a storm. Sixteen members of the crew were lost. Advertisement
In 1879, Thomas Edison gave the first public demonstration of his incandescent lamp -- in Menlo Park, N.J.
In 1929, Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians did their first New Year's Eve broadcast from the Roosevelt Grill in New York City.
In 1947, America's favorite Western movie couple, singing cowboy Roy Rogers and co-star Dale Evans, were married.
UPI File Photo
In 1968, the Soviet Union tested its supersonic airliner, the TU-144, months before the Anglo-French Concorde.
In 1972, Pittsburgh Pirates great Roberto Clemente and four other people died in a cargo plane crash en route to deliver supplies to earthquake-stricken Nicaragua. The plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean shortly after takeoff from Puerto Rico.
In 1983, the court-ordered breakup of the American Telephone and Telegraph Co. took effect.
In 1983, a bloodless military coup overthrew Nigerian President Shehu Shagari's government, replacing him with Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.
Advertisement
In 1985, fire broke out on a chartered DC-3 aircraft and it crashed in northeastern Texas, killing rock singer Rick Nelson, his fiancee and five band members.
In 1988, the Chicago Bears defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 20-12 in the so-called "Fog Bowl," when thick fog shrouded Chicago's Soldier Field.
In 1994, Russian forces launched a full air and ground attack on Grozny, the capital city of the rebel republic of Chechnya.
In 1997, the Algerian government announced that more than 400 people had been massacred by Islamic extremists during the last nine days of December.
In 1999, Panama assumed full control of the Panama Canal.
In 1999, Boris Yeltsin resigned as president of Russia, leaving Vladimir Putin acting president.
UPI File Photo
In 2004, authorities in Buenos Aires reported at least 175 deaths and hundreds of injuries in a fire at a crowded nightclub. A government official said, "Only two exits were open; the others were tied up with wire. These young people were doomed in a death trap."
Advertisement
In 2006, Romania and Bulgaria joined the European Union, increasing its membership to 27 countries.
In 2014, Beji Caid Essebsi becomes Tunisia's first freely elected president. The country's Parliament ousted him 18 months later with a vote of no confidence.
In 2019, the Wuhan Municipal Health Commission in China first reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia. Epidemiologists later identified the cause of the diseases as a novel coronavirus. The COVID-19 pandemic killed more than 1.7 million people across the globe in 2019.


upi--2020-12-31--Elon Musk's SpaceX crewed launches led space events in 2020

ORLANDO , Fla. , Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Launching people into orbit from U.S. soil again during two SpaceX launches topped the year 's accomplishments in spaceflight .
With that and other achievements , it was a strong year for Elon Musk 's company .
The launch of the Dragon Endeavour at the end of May with two astronauts on board , followed by the Crew 1 mission 's successful flight starting Nov. 15 , stood out as historic achievements to spaceflight experts .
`` In the end , it 's about the commercialization of spaceflight and what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said retired astronaut Mike Massimo , now a professor teaching spaceflight topics at Columbia University in New York .
`` Commercialization has unleashed private companies -- entrepreneurs -- to operate a little different than the government and use creativity to solve problems . ''
SpaceX 's ability to reuse rockets and capsules allowed the Hawthorne , Calif.-based company to grow rapidly and meet more challenges , Massimo said .
Perfecting the reuse of the first-stage Falcon 9 booster , flying them for seven times , also was a major accomplishment in 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those boosters flying back regularly -- it 's pretty amazing , '' Massimo said .
`` The Crew Dragon also is a marvel of new technology , with touch screens , updated cockpit design -- all of it . ''
SpaceX 's successful high-altitude test flight of its new Starship rocket Dec. 9 also ranks as a significant achievement for the year , he said .
The new spacecraft , which is intended to be a deep-space rocket for trips to the moon and Mars , made a flight of over seven miles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 by California-based Rocket Lab also registered as a top advance in spaceflight for 2020 , Massimo said , including the firm 's recovery of a first-stage booster on Nov. 20 .
SpaceX 's crewed flights and Starship tests also impressed Erik Seedhouse , assistant professor of commercial space operations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach , Fla. '' Everything Musk does is to get to Mars , '' Seedhouse said .
`` Building Starship is a big accomplishment , especially with the recent test flight .
Starship is moving ahead so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years behind . ''
For Seedhouse , having space travelers living aboard International Space Station almost continuously for 20 years was the biggest accomplishment of the year .
`` We 've proven humans can live in space for two decades , and that all these countries can work together , which is an incredible achievement in spaceflight , '' said Seedhouse , who has authored books on spaceflight and counts himself as a suborbital astronaut .
Reusability milestones reached by SpaceX and Blue Origin , and also Rocket Lab , also were highlights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Blue Origin also has reused their New Shepard suborbital rocket for the seventh time , and that 's significant , '' Seedhouse said .
`` They have n't put a foot wrong , and that kind of track record is valuable in spaceflight . ''
New Shepard is Blue Origin 's suborbital rocket , meaning it only reaches the edge of space .
The company intends to launch passengers on it eventually , but so far the rocket only has carried science experiments or other cargo .
Seedhouse said 2020 also saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flight suit design for space missions in decades .
NASA unveiled its new Artemis spacesuits in October , designed to allow for easier work in space and to fit a woman 's body better .
Those spacesuits have n't been used , but SpaceX employed the company 's pressurized flight suits on both crewed missions .
SpaceX flight suits are mostly white with black trim and touchscreen-enabled gloves .
They sport a sleek , smooth exterior in contrast to NASA 's bulkier orange suits .
Launches with crews clad in those white suits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ era to the crew capsule , said Casey Dreier , chief advocate and senior space policy adviser for the nonprofit Planetary Society , a California-based non-profit that promotes space exploration .
`` You ca n't emphasize it enough , '' Dreier said .
`` It was the return of human spaceflight to U.S. soil after nine long years '' since the last space shuttle mission .
Dreier said other nations ' accomplishments deserve recognition , particularly China 's Chang ' e-5 lunar sample mission , the launch of China 's Tianwen-1 Mars probe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return .
`` The successful launch of three nations ' Mars probes this summer -- the United States , the UAE and China -- has to be high on the list of accomplishments for 2020 , but they still have to reach their target , '' Dreier said .
Closer to home , he said , Rocket Lab 's recovery of a booster stage will be significant when the company reflies that booster for the first time .
And mega-constellations of satellites for SpaceX 's Starlink and OneWeb are a more controversial accomplishment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These huge satellite networks are technological advances , although they have come with problems regarding the interruption of sky-gazing and astronomy in some cases , '' Dreier said .
`` They are here to stay most likely , and China also wants to launch mega-constellations . ''

1/5
NASA astronauts Bob Behnken (L) and Doug Hurley are seen inside the SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour spacecraft after landing in the Gulf of Mexico on Aug. 2. Photo courtesy of NASA | License Photo
ORLANDO, Fla., Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Launching people into orbit from U.S. soil again during two SpaceX launches topped the year's accomplishments in spaceflight. With that and other achievements, it was a strong year for Elon Musk's company. The launch of the Dragon Endeavour at the end of May with two astronauts on board, followed by the Crew 1 mission's successful flight starting Nov. 15, stood out as historic achievements to spaceflight experts. Advertisement
"In the end, it's about the commercialization of spaceflight and what a tremendous success that has been," said retired astronaut Mike Massimo, now a professor teaching spaceflight topics at Columbia University in New York.
"Commercialization has unleashed private companies -- entrepreneurs -- to operate a little different than the government and use creativity to solve problems."
SpaceX's ability to reuse rockets and capsules allowed the Hawthorne, Calif.-based company to grow rapidly and meet more challenges, Massimo said.
Advertisement
Perfecting the reuse of the first-stage Falcon 9 booster, flying them for seven times, also was a major accomplishment in 2020, he said.
"To see those boosters flying back regularly -- it's pretty amazing," Massimo said. "The Crew Dragon also is a marvel of new technology, with touch screens, updated cockpit design -- all of it."
SpaceX's successful high-altitude test flight of its new Starship rocket Dec. 9 also ranks as a significant achievement for the year, he said. The new spacecraft, which is intended to be a deep-space rocket for trips to the moon and Mars, made a flight of over seven miles high Dec. 9.
Six launches in 2020 by California-based Rocket Lab also registered as a top advance in spaceflight for 2020, Massimo said, including the firm's recovery of a first-stage booster on Nov. 20.
SpaceX's crewed flights and Starship tests also impressed Erik Seedhouse, assistant professor of commercial space operations at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla.
"Everything Musk does is to get to Mars," Seedhouse said. "Building Starship is a big accomplishment, especially with the recent test flight. Starship is moving ahead so fast, any other company would be years behind."
For Seedhouse, having space travelers living aboard International Space Station almost continuously for 20 years was the biggest accomplishment of the year.
Advertisement
"We've proven humans can live in space for two decades, and that all these countries can work together, which is an incredible achievement in spaceflight," said Seedhouse, who has authored books on spaceflight and counts himself as a suborbital astronaut.
Reusability milestones reached by SpaceX and Blue Origin, and also Rocket Lab, also were highlights of the year, he said.
"Blue Origin also has reused their New Shepard suborbital rocket for the seventh time, and that's significant," Seedhouse said. "They haven't put a foot wrong, and that kind of track record is valuable in spaceflight."
New Shepard is Blue Origin's suborbital rocket, meaning it only reaches the edge of space. The company intends to launch passengers on it eventually, but so far the rocket only has carried science experiments or other cargo.
Seedhouse said 2020 also saw the first significant advances in spacesuit and flight suit design for space missions in decades.
NASA unveiled its new Artemis spacesuits in October, designed to allow for easier work in space and to fit a woman's body better. Those spacesuits haven't been used, but SpaceX employed the company's pressurized flight suits on both crewed missions.
SpaceX flight suits are mostly white with black trim and touchscreen-enabled gloves. They sport a sleek, smooth exterior in contrast to NASA's bulkier orange suits.
Advertisement
Launches with crews clad in those white suits marked a major transition from the shuttle era to the crew capsule, said Casey Dreier, chief advocate and senior space policy adviser for the nonprofit Planetary Society, a California-based non-profit that promotes space exploration.
"You can't emphasize it enough," Dreier said. "It was the return of human spaceflight to U.S. soil after nine long years" since the last space shuttle mission.
Dreier said other nations' accomplishments deserve recognition, particularly China's Chang'e-5 lunar sample mission, the launch of China's Tianwen-1 Mars probe and Japan's Hyabusa 2 asteroid sample return.
"The successful launch of three nations' Mars probes this summer -- the United States, the UAE and China -- has to be high on the list of accomplishments for 2020, but they still have to reach their target," Dreier said.
Closer to home, he said, Rocket Lab's recovery of a booster stage will be significant when the company reflies that booster for the first time.
And mega-constellations of satellites for SpaceX's Starlink and OneWeb are a more controversial accomplishment in 2020, he said.
"These huge satellite networks are technological advances, although they have come with problems regarding the interruption of sky-gazing and astronomy in some cases," Dreier said. "They are here to stay most likely, and China also wants to launch mega-constellations."
Advertisement
NASA, SpaceX complete historic first mission to space station
Support teams work around the SpaceX Crew Dragon Resilience spacecraft shortly after it landed with NASA astronauts Mike Hopkins, Shannon Walker and Victor Glover and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Soichi Noguchi aboard in the Gulf of Mexico off Panama City, Fla., on Sunday. Photo by Bill Ingalls/NASA | License Photo