usatoday--2020-09-23--It's been 6 months since Harry and Meghan moved to LA post-Megxit: Are they happy now?

It 's been six months since Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan moved to Southern California to build a new kind of royal lifestyle , one bolstered by more independence , more control over their image and new Hollywood business partners .
So , Harry and Meg , how 's it going so far ?
Meghan , the Los Angeles-born former actress , hinted about how she feels in recent online interviews .
`` It 's good to be home , '' she sighed contentedly .
And that was before the news on Sept 2 that the couple signed a multi-year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ producers of scripted series , docu-series , documentaries , features and children ’ s programming .
For the first time ever , a British royal couple is set to become players in the global entertainment industry .
`` This is a massive unparalleled historical deal , '' enthused Jonathan Shalit , chairman/founder of InterTalent Rights Group , who bills himself on Twitter as `` London 's Most Influential Talent Manager . ''
He says he knows Harry and Meghan because one of his clients , The Kingdom Choir , sang at their 2018 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been more warm and charming , '' he says , comparing her compassion and empathy to the late Princess Diana , whom he also knew .
So , time to take a look back at what 's happened since `` Megxit , '' the tabloids ' mocking epithet for the couple 's shocking announcement in January that they were stepping back from their senior royal roles .
Are Harry and Meghan happy now ?
Do they have agency over their new lives and their new purpose ?
USA TODAY reached out to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reps , who declined to comment .
Others were more willing .
`` Yes , independence and a role they clearly want in life has been achieved with the Netflix deal , '' says Shalit , who says he and many others in the U.K. think Harry and Meghan have `` a right to happiness and a right to carve their own path in life . ''
More : Prince Harry , Meghan Markle repay $ 3M to British taxpayers for renovations on their UK home But the couple may never redeem themselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Many resent and blame Meghan for the manner in which they feel she ‘ crashed ’ herself into the royal family and then tried to change an institution that has existed for 800 years , '' Shalit says .
Their split from royal life seems inevitable in retrospect , he adds .
In less than six months , Harry , 36 , and Meghan , 39 , have morphed from second-tier royals , to media moguls-in-waiting .
More : Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan sign multiyear Netflix deal to 'shine a light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with diverse communities and their environments , to shining a light on people and causes around the world , our focus will be on creating content that informs but also gives hope , '' they gushed in a statement .
“ The deal will make Meghan and Harry prima donnas of Hollywood , '' predicts Eric Schiffer , chairman of Reputation Management Consultants in Los Angeles .
`` It ’ s the hottest power play of modern Tinseltown.
” The price tag of the Netflix deal was not disclosed but it has already @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : They paid off about $ 3.2 million in taxpayers ' money spent to renovate their Windsor home , Frogmore Cottage , which remains their base when they are in the U.K .
They had already said they would pay back the costs monthly over a few years , but their critics insisted that was n't good enough .
Now that issue is moot .
The couple 's partnership with Netflix will help make it possible for them to live a grand lifestyle without help from Harry 's father , Prince Charles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millionaires anyway ( he inherited many millions from his late mother , Princess Diana and from his great-grandmother , the Queen Mother , and she made a few million as an actress on cable show `` Suits '' ) but their expensive requirements , especially security costs , meant they needed to up their game in America .
Howard Bragman of La Brea Media , says Harry and Meghan , as neophyte producers , still have a lot to prove .
Now they have to put together an experienced Hollywood production team and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends , former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama , did when they signed a mega production deal with Netflix after leaving the White House .
`` People are not going to watch just because it ’ s them – they 'll get a ton of promotion because it ’ s them , ( viewers ) might sample because it 's them but it could backfire , they could be more critical , too , '' the longtime Hollywood PR management expert says .
`` The real challenge is to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into entertainment that is going to be compelling , because in the end if it 's not good entertainment people are not going to watch it no matter how much promotion you give it . ''
They moved in June to their `` new family home , '' as they described it , a 19,000-square foot Mediterranean-style villa in pricey Montecito in Santa Barbara County , near where their pal Oprah Winfrey lives , about an hour northwest of Los Angeles .
Their fourth abode since January , the price tag was just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Variety and the Los Angeles Times .
Their new wealth means they can hire personal , professional and security staff loyal to them alone , unlike those employed in the royal palaces in Britain , some of whom have been known to leak to the media .
One of the reasons Harry and Meghan were fed up with the royal lifestyle , according to a recent biography , `` Finding Freedom , '' by two sympathetic journalists , was the palace media operation , which they felt did not do enough to counter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the couple in British tabloids and on social media .
Now they have a new media team , funded by the Sussexes and working out of the Sunshine Sachs PR firm , well-known in Hollywood .
They are helping the couple set up their new non-profit organization , Archewell , and are working on building their new Twitter and Instagram social media platforms .
The Sussex media team is anonymous , and totally under the couple 's control .
Now that Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals , they can set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves to the public .
Meanwhile , the standard media pools organized by the palace to cover royal engagements are gone ; instead , the couple announces engagements only after they 're over ( to help foil paparazzi ) , and encourage whoever they 're visiting to post positive sentiments on social media .
More : Duchess Meghan reveals Prince Harry calls himself a feminist , too , during Gloria Steinem chat More freedom to speak out : The price of being royal is a constrained life ; you ca n't say or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you like , and you ca n't talk about politics and other topics off limits for royals .
`` When they left they were looking for fewer layers of palace interference in what they wanted to do .
Now that can be ( organized ) without clearing it through 18 levels of palace sign-off , '' says Lainey Lui , a Canadian TV personality and founder of Toronto-based Laineygossip.com , who closely follows royal news .
Harry and Meghan also have more freedom to speak up about causes they believe in .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been campaigning publicly for reform of social media , while Meghan has been talking about empowering women and urging them to vote .
`` We all know what 's at stake '' in November , she warned in an online get-out-the vote appearance last month .
It was one of the issues the couple cited in their reasons for seeking to build a new life in North America – their desire to control when and where they are left alone .
So far , they 've been `` paparazzied '' only a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's not just about where the paparazzi are , it 's about the people around you who are selling you out , '' Lui says .
`` It 's when the people assigned to protect them or who are around them ( as staff ) are allegedly leaking to newspapers about their private business . ''
Still , Los Angeles is the capital of the paparazzi .
Only months after they moved into a borrowed mansion overlooking the Beverly Hills area , Harry and Meghan were alarmed to see low-flying drones buzzing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Archie .
In July , they filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles aimed at stopping the `` disgusting and wrong '' publication of a picture , taken by an unknown photographer , of baby Archie .
California law bans photographers from invading people 's privacy by peering into private homes .
But it 's yet another legal battle with the media – they are suing three tabloids in London in two separate lawsuits – that could end up being Pyrrhic legal victories .
Shalit points out that the Netflix deal could also challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will have to pay is media and personal intrusion into their lives for so long as they live public lives in show business , '' Shalit says .
`` They will need the fuel of publicity and media support to promote and maximize attention for what Netflix have paid for . ''

It's been 6 months since Harry and Meghan moved to LA post-Megxit: Are they happy now?
Show Caption Hide Caption Author: Harry and Meghan are in touch with royal family The co-author of a new book about royals Harry and Meghan says the prince is in touch with his family now that he's living in America. Omid Scobie wrote 'Finding Freedom" with Carolyn Durand. He says the book tackles tabloid tales about the couple "that were so far from the truth." (Aug. 14) AP
It's been six months since Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan moved to Southern California to build a new kind of royal lifestyle, one bolstered by more independence, more control over their image and new Hollywood business partners.
So, Harry and Meg, how's it going so far?
Meghan, the Los Angeles-born former actress, hinted about how she feels in recent online interviews. "It's good to be home," she sighed contentedly.
And that was before the news on Sept 2 that the couple signed a multiyear mega-deal with Netflix to become Hollywood producers of scripted series, docuseries, documentaries, features and children’s programming. For the first time, a British royal couple are set to become players in the global entertainment industry.
"This is a massive unparalleled historical deal," said Jonathan Shalit, chairman/founder of InterTalent Rights Group, who bills himself on Twitter as "London's Most Influential Talent Manager." He says he knows Harry and Meghan because one of his clients, The Kingdom Choir, sang at their 2018 wedding. "Meghan could not have been more warm and charming," he says, comparing her compassion and empathy to that of the late Princess Diana, whom he also knew.
So, time to take a look back at what's happened since "Megxit," the tabloids' mocking epithet for the couple's shocking announcement in January that they were stepping back from their senior royal roles. Are Harry and Meghan happy now? Do they have agency over their new lives and their new purpose?
USA TODAY reached out to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's media reps, who declined to comment.
Others were more willing. "Yes, independence and a role they clearly want in life has been achieved with the Netflix deal," says Shalit, who says he and many others in the U.K. think Harry and Meghan have "a right to happiness and a right to carve their own path in life."
More: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle repay $3M to British taxpayers for renovations on their UK home
But the couple may never redeem themselves with some of their fiercest critics.
"Many resent and blame Meghan for the manner in which they feel she ‘crashed’ herself into the royal family and then tried to change an institution that has existed for 800 years," Shalit says. Their split from royal life seems inevitable in retrospect, he adds.
Hollywood royals:
In less than six months, Harry, 36, and Meghan, 39, have morphed from second-tier royals to media moguls-in-waiting.
More: Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan sign multiyear Netflix deal to 'shine a light' on causes
“Through our work with diverse communities and their environments, to shining a light on people and causes around the world, our focus will be on creating content that informs but also gives hope," they said in a statement.
“The deal will make Meghan and Harry prima donnas of Hollywood," predicts Eric Schiffer, chairman of Reputation Management Consultants in Los Angeles. "It’s the hottest power play of modern Tinseltown.”
Financial independence
The price tag of the Netflix deal was not disclosed, but it has already helped defuse one reason for lingering resentment: They paid off about $3.2 million in taxpayers' money spent to renovate their Windsor home, Frogmore Cottage, which remains their base when they are in the U.K. They had already said they would pay back the costs monthly over a few years, but their critics insisted that wasn't good enough. Now that issue is moot.
The couple's partnership with Netflix will help make it possible for them to live a grand lifestyle without help from Harry's father, Prince Charles, or British taxpayers. They were both millionaires anyway (he inherited many millions from his late mother, Princess Diana and from his great-grandmother, the Queen Mother, and she made a few million as an actress on cable show "Suits"), but their expensive requirements, especially security costs, meant they needed to up their game in America.
Stand and deliver
Howard Bragman of La Brea Media says Harry and Meghan, as neophyte producers, still have a lot to prove. Now they have to put together an experienced Hollywood production team and some genuine quality projects, as their friends, former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama, did when they signed a mega-production deal with Netflix after leaving the White House.
"People are not going to watch just because it’s them – they'll get a ton of promotion because it’s them, (viewers) might sample because it's them, but it could backfire; they could be more critical, too," the longtime Hollywood PR management expert says.
"The real challenge is to take their woke concepts and translate that into entertainment that is going to be compelling, because in the end if it's not good entertainment people are not going to watch it no matter how much promotion you give it."
A new palatial estate
They moved in June to their "new family home," as they described it, a 19,000-square foot Mediterranean-style villa in pricey Montecito in Santa Barbara County, near where their pal Oprah Winfrey lives, about an hour northwest of Los Angeles.
It was their fourth abode since January, and the price tag was just under $15 million, according to Variety and the Los Angeles Times.
Their new wealth means they can hire personal, professional and security staff loyal to them alone, unlike those employed in the royal palaces in Britain, some of whom have been known to leak to the media.
Media matters
One of the reasons Harry and Meghan were fed up with the royal life, according to a recent biography, "Finding Freedom," by two sympathetic journalists, was the palace media operation, which they felt did not do enough to counter the negative, even racist coverage of the couple in British tabloids and on social media.
Now they have a new media team, funded by the Sussexes and working out of the Sunshine Sachs PR firm, well-known in Hollywood. They are helping the couple set up their new non-profit organization, Archewell, and are working on building their new Twitter and Instagram social media platforms.
The Sussex media team is anonymous and totally under the couple's control. Now that Harry and Meghan are no longer working royals, they can set their own rules about how they present themselves to the public.
Meanwhile, the standard media pools organized by the palace to cover royal engagements are gone; instead, the couple announce engagements only after they're over (to help foil paparazzi) and encourage whoever they're visiting to post positive sentiments on social media.
More: Duchess Meghan reveals Prince Harry calls himself a feminist, too, during Gloria Steinem chat
More freedom to speak out
The price of being royal is a constrained life; you can't say or do or wear anything you like whenever you like, and you can't talk about politics and other topics off limits for royals.
Harry and Meghan celebrate son Archie’s first birthday with a story The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have marked their son’s first birthday by posting a video of Meghan reading to a beaming Archie. PA Media - News
"When they left they were looking for fewer layers of palace interference in what they wanted to do. Now that can be (organized) without clearing it through 18 levels of palace sign-off," says Lainey Lui, a Canadian TV personality and founder of Toronto-based Laineygossip.com, who closely follows royal news.
Harry and Meghan also have more freedom to speak up about causes they believe in. Since arriving in the USA, Harry has been campaigning publicly for reform of social media, while Meghan has been talking about empowering women and urging them to vote.
"We all know what's at stake" in November, she warned in an online get-out-the vote appearance last month.
More: Harry, Meghan threaten legal action over published paparazzi pictures that show baby Archie
Privacy still elusive
It was one of the issues the couple cited in their reasons for seeking to build a new life in North America – their desire to control when and where they are left alone. So far, they've been "paparazzied" only a few times in Los Angeles.
"It's not just about where the paparazzi are, it's about the people around you who are selling you out," Lui says. "It's when the people assigned to protect them or who are around them (as staff) are allegedly leaking to newspapers about their private business."
Still, Los Angeles is the capital of the paparazzi. Only months after they moved into a borrowed mansion overlooking the Beverly Hills area, Harry and Meghan were alarmed to see low-flying drones buzzing the backyard for pictures of 16-month-old son, Archie.
In July, they filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles aimed at stopping the "disgusting and wrong" publication of a picture, taken by an unknown photographer, of baby Archie.
California law bans photographers from invading people's privacy by peering into private homes. But it's yet another legal battle with the media – they are suing three tabloids in London in two separate lawsuits – that could end up being Pyrrhic legal victories.
Shalit points out that the Netflix deal could also challenge their much-desired privacy.
"The price they will have to pay is media and personal intrusion into their lives for so long as they live public lives in show business," Shalit says. "They will need the fuel of publicity and media support to promote and maximize attention for what Netflix have paid for."


usatoday--2020-09-23--Women in President Donald Trump's White House earn 69 cents for every $1 paid to male staffers

This story was published in partnership with The 19th , a nonprofit , nonpartisan newsroom reporting on gender , politics and policy .
During the Republican National Convention , the high-ranking women in Donald Trump ’ s White House tried to make the case for the president ’ s commitment to gender equality .
Outgoing adviser Kellyanne Conway called him “ a champion for women.
” Brooke Rollins , acting director of the Domestic Policy Council , went further , saying Trump has more women in his top team “ than any president before.
” A video flashed through images @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including his daughter Ivanka Trump and his daughter-in-law , Lara Trump .
A voiceover intoned : “ President Trump has proven that when the stakes are highest , he is proud to entrust many of our nation ’ s most crucial jobs to women.
” The rhetoric , however , belies the reality in the Trump White House , particularly when it comes to the gender pay gap , a key measure of gender parity .
An analysis by The 19th of the 2020 median salaries in the Trump White House found a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for male staffers ( $ 106,000 ) and the median salary for female staffers ( $ 72,700 ) .
That means women make nearly 69 cents on the male $ 1 — worse than the national gender pay gap of 82 cents on the dollar .
The numbers reflect what economists call the “ raw ” gender pay gap , meaning they don ’ t adjust for experience , education , title or other factors .
The national figure is also a reflection of the raw gender pay gap .
Neither is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving out the complexities of persisting occupational segregation and the challenges of access that still plague women trying to move up to positions of leadership .
But stacked against each other , they do show a persisting pay gap between men and women .
( The Trump administration does not appear to have any staffers who identify as nonbinary , according to the National Center for Transgender Equality ) .
“ To avoid addressing structural and institutional gender discrimination in terms of pay equity , the go-to is to talk about position and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not what ’ s driving pay inequity , ” said C. Nicole Mason , the president and CEO of the Institute for Women ’ s Policy Research .
“ It ’ s decisions that are being made from the top down about the valuing of women ’ s work and how much they should be paid.
” The issue of pay inequity has plagued past administrations too .
Women in President Barack Obama ’ s White House were paid between about 84 and 89 cents for every $ 1 paid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ narrower than the one in the Trump White House and narrower , too , than the national gender pay gap in those years .
The gender pay gap widened from 89 cents on the dollar in 2016 during the final year Obama was in office , to 63 cents on the dollar the first year Trump was in office , according to an analysis by the American Enterprise Institute , a conservative think tank .
The Trump White House salaries are current as of June 26 .
The numbers have been reported annually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The White House did not comment on the gender pay gap but did provide data on average salaries , which have increased by 7.1 percent for female staffers between 2017 and 2020 , while decreasing for male staffers by 0.6 percent .
In a statement , press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the president “ implements policies that empower women across the country , ” and highlighted some of the milestones that occurred during the Trump administration , including a historic low unemployment rate for women in 2019 ( though female unemployment has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus pandemic ) ; the passage of paid family leave for federal employees ; the passage of a child care tax credit ( which has been criticized for not helping those most in need ) ; and the establishment of the Women ’ s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative , led by Ivanka Trump .
The White House also noted that half of the senior leaders in the National Security Council are women .
“ President Trump has taken unprecedented action to support women and girls , ” McEnany said .
The Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more women in senior positions than any president in history .
But an analysis by The 19th of its commissioned officers — assistants , deputy assistants and special assistants to the president ( the highest rank ) — found that about 40 percent of staffers with that ranking in the Trump White House were women .
In the 2016 Obama White House , which had a larger overall staff , the gender split in top positions was 50–50 .
A Brookings Institution analysis of top advisors across administrations found that the 2017 Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its “ A ” team positions , what Brookings defines as the most influential staff members .
That ’ s less than the 2009 Obama administration , the 2001 George W. Bush administration and the 1993 Bill Clinton administration .
Opinion : COVID-19 : Dithering in Congress will set women , children — and our GDP — back a generation Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden ’ s campaign did not provide its salary breakdown by gender , but said 59 percent of its full-time staff is female , and 56 percent of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an economist and scholar at the American Enterprise Institute who has closely tracked the gender gap figures during recent years , said some of the disparity in pay in various administrations can be explained by looking at the spread of male and female staffers by seniority .
Federal guidelines dictate the salary brackets by type of position , so men and women performing similar jobs can expect to be paid about the same .
But more women are being hired into entry-level positions , Perry said , which is in line with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graduating college as compared to men — nearly 58 percent last year .
“ More women than men have the college degrees that would get them the credentials to get a job at the White House as a low-paid staff person , ” Perry said .
At the higher end , there are more men than women who have advanced degrees and decades of continuous experience in politics , he said .
“ That labor market for people with 30 years continuous experience in Washington … there were just naturally more men than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perry said .
But that also paints an incomplete picture , said Mason with the Institute for Women ’ s Policy Research .
“ There is no absence of qualified women , ” Mason said , adding that the Obama administration did make a stronger commitment to hiring women in senior leadership positions .
In 2016 , for example , more women than men earned $ 100,000 or more in the Obama White House — about 53 percent of six-figure earners compared to nearly 47 percent who were men .
In 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Trump White House was 37 percent female and 63 percent male .
Among the top female earners in the White House were Conway , Rollins , McEnany , aide Hope Hicks and the first lady ’ s chief of staff , Stephanie Grisham , who all made $ 183,000 .
Ivanka Trump and her husband , Jared Kushner , do not take a salary in their White House roles .
Among the lower earners , Mason said that there is some discretion as to what aides get paid — even within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably the biggest explanation for the widening of the gap within administrations , ” she said .
And then there ’ s the talent pool .
Fewer women are Republican than men , and fewer conservative women work in politics , which has posed a challenge in terms of getting Republican women elected to office .
But it doesn ’ t explain away entirely the issue for the 400-plus positions available at the White House — there are enough qualified women to fill those spots , said Kelly Dittmar , director of research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Women and Politics at the Eagleton Institute of Politics.\ The bigger explanation lies in the party ’ s ideological approach to issues of diversity .
The argument in terms of hiring is often that there are certain people in the top positions simply because the best person was chosen for the job from a limited selection .
That argument resonated during the Republican National Convention ’ s appeal to women .
“ I don ’ t want a job because of my gender , ” said adviser Kimberly Guilfoyle .
“ I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best person for that position.
” It ’ s a different ideological approach from a growing sentiment in the Democratic party that a demographic identity provides its own value .
“ If you ’ re talking about who you want at the decision-making tables in the White House , you would put a value on women ’ s voices not because of their biological sex , but because that gender identity brings with it a distinct lived experience and perspective as women in a society in which gender is one axis of inequity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There ’ s also a partisan difference as to whether the gender wage gap is an issue that requires urgency or whether it ’ s a myth .
“ If you can just say the gender wage gap isn ’ t a thing or discount it in other ways , you don ’ t even get into the nitty gritty of the data , ” Dittmar said .
Trump also hasn ’ t put closing the gender pay gap as a major priority of his , though it is a priority for Ivanka @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to roll back measures designed to increase transparency on pay data .
In 2017 , the Trump administration stopped the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission from collecting pay data on gender and race from companies with 100 or more employees — a rule instituted during the Obama administration to illuminate inequalities in pay .
A federal judge ruled last year that the Trump administration failed to prove the move would put undue burden on employers , and ordered the EEOC to continue collecting the data .
“ The Trump administration has shown no interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and gender wage gap impacting working women across this country , ” said Emily Martin , vice president of education and workplace justice at the National Women ’ s Law Center , one of the groups that sued the Trump administration over its freeze on collection of the pay data .
“ It ’ s no surprise that the wage gap is not only larger in the White House than the rest of the country , but is moving in the wrong direction.
” The president also signed an executive order in 2017 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces executive order , which required companies with federal contracts to comply with 14 labor and civil rights laws , including a paycheck transparency rule .
The Trump administration ’ s main concern with eliminating the order centered on a provision that required federal contractors to report labor violations , something Republicans in Congress argued could be used as “ blackmail ” in labor union negotiations .
Going into the 2020 election , the president has made a more direct push to highlight his support of women .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 19th Amendment , which gave some women the right to vote , Trump issued a proclamation making August 26 , 2020 Women ’ s Equality Day .
“ Recognizing that women contribute to the strength and security of our Nation , my Administration will always make supporting women and working families a top priority , ” the president wrote .
In the polls , Trump trails Biden on the female vote by double digits .
The Republican National Convention attempted to close that margin , featuring a line-up with numerous female speakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitment to women .
But the rhetoric , Mason said , isn ’ t matching up with the president ’ s priorities .
“ Women across America need to ask some tough questions , ” Mason said .
“ Do the president ’ s positions , views and behaviors reflect their values ?
” The 19th ’ s Washington correspondent , Amanda Becker , contributed to this report .

Women in President Donald Trump’s White House earn 69 cents for every $1 paid to male staffers
During the Republican National Convention last month, the high-ranking women in President Donald Trump’s White House tried to make the case for his commitment to gender equality.
Outgoing adviser Kellyanne Conway called him “a champion for women.” Brooke Rollins, acting director of the Domestic Policy Council, said Trump has more women on his top team “than any president before.”
A video flashed through images of women who advise the president, including his daughter Ivanka and his daughter-in-law, Lara. A voiceover intoned, “President Trump has proven that when the stakes are highest, he is proud to entrust many of our nation’s most crucial jobs to women.”
The rhetoric belies the reality in the Trump White House, particularly when it comes to the gender pay gap, a measure of parity.
An analysis by The 19th of the 2020 median salaries in the Trump White House found a $33,300 chasm between the salary for male staffers ($106,000) and the salary for female staffers ($72,700).
Women make nearly 69 cents on the male $1 – worse than the national gender pay gap of 82 cents on the dollar.
The numbers reflect what economists call the “raw” gender pay gap, meaning they don’t adjust for experience, education, title or other factors. The national figure is also a reflection of the raw gender pay gap. Neither is a full representation of the entire picture, leaving out the complexities of occupational segregation and the challenges of access that plague women trying to move up to positions of leadership.
But stacked against each other, they do show a persisting pay gap between men and women. (The Trump administration does not appear to have any staffers who identify as nonbinary, according to the National Center for Transgender Equality).
“To avoid addressing structural and institutional gender discrimination in terms of pay equity, the go-to is to talk about position and title when, in fact, that’s not what’s driving pay inequity,” said C. Nicole Mason, president and CEO of the Institute for Women’s Policy Research. “It’s decisions that are being made from the top down about the valuing of women’s work and how much they should be paid.”
The issue of pay inequity has plagued past administrations, too. Women in President Barack Obama’s White House were paid 84 to 89 cents for every $1 paid to male staffers, though that gap was narrower than the national gender pay gap in those years.
The gender pay gap widened from 89 cents on the dollar in 2016, the final year Obama was in office, to 63 cents the first year Trump was in office, according to an analysis by the American Enterprise Institute, a conservative think tank.
The Trump White House salaries are current as of June 26. The numbers have been reported annually to Congress on July 1 since 1995. The White House did not comment on the gender pay gap but provided data on average salaries, which have increased by 7.1% for female staffers from 2017 to 2020, while decreasing for male staffers by 0.6%.
In a statement, press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the president “implements policies that empower women across the country.” She highlighted some of the milestones during the Trump administration, including a historic low unemployment rate for women in 2019 (though female unemployment has hit a historic high during the coronavirus pandemic); the passage of paid family leave for federal employees; the passage of a child care tax credit (which has been criticized for not helping those most in need); and the establishment of the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative, led by Ivanka Trump.
The White House noted that half of the senior leaders in the National Security Council are women.
“President Trump has taken unprecedented action to support women and girls,” McEnany said.
The Trump administration said it has more women in senior positions than any other president. An analysis by The 19th of its commissioned officers – assistants, deputy assistants and special assistants to the president (the highest rank) – found that about 40% of staffers with that ranking in the Trump White House are women.
In the 2016 Obama White House, which had a larger overall staff, the gender split in top positions was 50–50.
A Brookings Institution analysis of top advisers across administrations found that the 2017 Trump administration had women in 23% of its “A” team positions, what Brookings defines as the most influential staff members. That’s less than the 2009 Obama administration, the 2001 George W. Bush administration and the 1993 Bill Clinton administration.
Opinion: COVID-19: Dithering in Congress will set women, children – and our GDP – back a generation
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden’s campaign did not provide its salary breakdown by gender but said 59% of its full-time staffers are female and 56% of its senior staffers are women.
Mark Perry, an economist and scholar at the American Enterprise Institute who has closely tracked the gender gap figures, said some of the disparity in pay in various administrations can be explained by looking at the spread of male and female staffers by seniority.
Federal guidelines dictate the salary brackets by type of position, so men and women performing similar jobs can expect to be paid about the same.
More women are hired into entry-level positions, Perry said, which is in line with the increased number of women who graduate college compared with men – nearly 58% last year.
“More women than men have the college degrees that would get them the credentials to get a job at the White House as a low-paid staff person,” Perry said.
At the higher end, there are more men than women who have advanced degrees and decades of experience in politics, he said.
“That labor market for people with 30 years continuous experience in Washington … there were just naturally more men than women in that labor market,” Perry said.
That paints an incomplete picture, Mason said.
“There is no absence of qualified women,” Mason said, adding that the Obama administration made a stronger commitment to hiring women in senior leadership positions.
In 2016, more women than men earned $100,000 or more in the Obama White House – about 53% of six-figure earners compared with nearly 47% who were men. In 2020, the gender split among the highest earners in the Trump White House is 37% female and 63% male.
Among the top female earners in the White House are Conway, Rollins, McEnany, aide Hope Hicks and the first lady’s chief of staff, Stephanie Grisham, who all made $183,000. Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, do not take a salary in their White House roles.
Among the lower earners, Mason said, there is some discretion as to what aides get paid – even within federal income brackets.
“That is probably the biggest explanation for the widening of the gap within administrations,” she said.
Then there’s the talent pool. Fewer women are Republican than men, and fewer conservative women work in politics, a challenge in terms of getting Republican women elected to office. But that doesn’t explain entirely the issue for the 400-plus positions available at the White House – there are enough qualified women to fill those spots, said Kelly Dittmar, director of research and scholar at the Center for American Women and Politics at the Eagleton Institute of Politics.
The argument in terms of hiring is often that there are certain people in the top positions simply because the best person was chosen for the job from a limited selection.
That argument resonated during the Republican National Convention’s appeal to women.
“I don’t want a job because of my gender,” adviser Kimberly Guilfoyle said. “I want the job because I’m the best person for that position.”
It’s a different ideological approach from the Democratic Party's sentiment that a demographic identity provides its own value.
“If you’re talking about who you want at the decision-making tables in the White House, you would put a value on women’s voices not because of their biological sex but because that gender identity brings with it a distinct lived experience and perspective as women in a society in which gender is one axis of inequity and power,” Dittmar said.
There’s also a partisan difference as to whether the gender wage gap is an issue that requires urgency or whether it’s a myth.
“If you can just say the gender wage gap isn’t a thing or discount it in other ways, you don’t even get into the nitty gritty of the data,” Dittmar said.
Trump hasn’t made closing the gender pay gap a major priority, though it is a priority for Ivanka Trump. The president tried to roll back measures designed to increase transparency on pay data. In 2017, the Trump administration stopped the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission from collecting pay data on gender and race from companies with 100 or more employees – a rule instituted during the Obama administration to illuminate inequalities in pay. A federal judge ruled last year that the Trump administration failed to prove the move would put undue burden on employers and ordered the EEOC to continue collecting the data.
“The Trump administration has shown no interest in taking steps to close the racial and gender wage gap impacting working women across this country,” said Emily Martin, vice president of education and workplace justice at the National Women’s Law Center, one of the groups that sued the Trump administration over its freeze on collection of the pay data. “It’s no surprise that the wage gap is not only larger in the White House than the rest of the country but is moving in the wrong direction.”
The president signed an executive order in 2017 that rolled back the Obama administration’s Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces executive order, which required companies with federal contracts to comply with 14 labor and civil rights laws, including a paycheck transparency rule. The Trump administration’s main concern with eliminating the order centered on a provision that required federal contractors to report labor violations, something Republicans in Congress argued could be used as “blackmail” in labor union negotiations.
Going into the 2020 election, the president has made a more direct push to highlight his support of women. On the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which gave some women the right to vote, Trump issued a proclamation making Aug. 26 Women’s Equality Day.
“Recognizing that women contribute to the strength and security of our Nation, my Administration will always make supporting women and working families a top priority,” the president wrote.
In polls, Trump trails Biden on the female vote by double digits.
The Republican National Convention attempted to close that margin, featuring a lineup with numerous female speakers who spoke about the president’s commitment to women.
The rhetoric, Mason said, doesn’t match the president’s priorities.
“Women across America need to ask some tough questions,” Mason said. “Do the president’s positions, views and behaviors reflect their values?”
Contributing: Amanda Becker
This story was published in partnership with The 19th, a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom reporting on gender, politics and policy.


usatoday--2020-09-23--'Placed intentionally to cause harm': Michigan city closes playgrounds after discovery of 41 razor b

EATON RAPIDS , Mich. — A group of people at a Michigan playground discovered 39 razor blades on the equipment , prompting authorities to close playgrounds across the city , police said .
Officers recovered an additional two blades after they were called at about 4:40 p.m. Monday to the playground , according to a news release from the Eaton Rapids Police Department .
`` Some of the blades appeared to have been placed intentionally to cause harm , '' police said on Facebook .
Witnesses told police they saw four teenagers , two boys and two girls , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release .
They were about 17 or 18 years old and were last seen walking north away from the playground .
'Justice for Mike ' : Iowa authorities arrest 4 in murder of Michael Williams , whose body was found burning in a ditch The police department said other parks were checked `` out of an abundance of caution '' and additional blades were found `` laying in the grass '' at another park .
Later Tuesday , the police department wrote officers were able to inspect city parks and deemed them safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done everything in our ability to ensure the safety of the park spaces , please remember to always remain aware , alert and diligent about your surroundings , '' the department wrote .
Savanna 's Act : A bipartisan bill to address 'tragic issue ' of missing and murdered Native Americans , passes US House Police put out a call to the community for `` large , construction-grade magnets '' to help with inspecting parks for more blades .
After the parks were declared safe to reopen , police thanked residents for helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who lives just down the street from Howe Park , was `` magnet fishing '' nearby when he saw uniformed officers in the park .
He lent them some of his high-powered magnets to search for razor blades , he said .
NTSB investigates : Weekend aircraft crashes in Texas , Indiana , Michigan and Illinois that killed 10 people Orr said they found a box of 100 razor blades on a picnic table at the park .
He said 20 of the razor blades were in a circle pattern out in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the park .
`` We 've never had anything like this happen , '' Orr said .
`` Luckily , parents saw it before the kids went down the slides ...
I hope they find them and I hope they throw the book down . ''
The city is offering a $ 1,000 reward for anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a suspect or suspects .
`` We are happy to announce that all parks have been canvased and we are confident that any hazardous objects have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hall announced through the police department 's Facebook page .

'Placed intentionally to cause harm': Michigan city closes playgrounds after discovery of 41 razor blades
Show Caption Hide Caption AP Top Stories September 22 Here's the latest for Tuesday September 22nd: Tropical Storm Beta reaches Texas coast; Fire forces more evacuations near Los Angeles; More possible allegations for ricin suspect; Trump meets possible Supreme Court candidate. AP
EATON RAPIDS, Mich. — A group of people at a Michigan playground discovered 39 razor blades on the equipment, prompting authorities to close playgrounds across the city, police said.
Officers recovered an additional two blades after they were called at about 4:40 p.m. Monday to the playground, according to a news release from the Eaton Rapids Police Department.
"Some of the blades appeared to have been placed intentionally to cause harm," police said on Facebook.
Witnesses told police they saw four teenagers, two boys and two girls, on the playground equipment, according to the release. They were about 17 or 18 years old and were last seen walking north away from the playground.
'Justice for Mike': Iowa authorities arrest 4 in murder of Michael Williams, whose body was found burning in a ditch
The police department said other parks were checked "out of an abundance of caution" and additional blades were found "laying in the grass" at another park.
Later Tuesday, the police department wrote officers were able to inspect city parks and deemed them safe to reopen.
"Although we have done everything in our ability to ensure the safety of the park spaces, please remember to always remain aware, alert and diligent about your surroundings," the department wrote.
Savanna's Act: A bipartisan bill to address 'tragic issue' of missing and murdered Native Americans, passes US House
Police put out a call to the community for "large, construction-grade magnets" to help with inspecting parks for more blades. After the parks were declared safe to reopen, police thanked residents for helping with the search.
Cody Orr, who lives just down the street from Howe Park, was "magnet fishing" nearby when he saw uniformed officers in the park. He lent them some of his high-powered magnets to search for razor blades, he said.
NTSB investigates: Weekend aircraft crashes in Texas, Indiana, Michigan and Illinois that killed 10 people
Orr said they found a box of 100 razor blades on a picnic table at the park. He said 20 of the razor blades were in a circle pattern out in the open and the others were hidden in the park.
"We've never had anything like this happen," Orr said. "Luckily, parents saw it before the kids went down the slides...I hope they find them and I hope they throw the book down."
The city is offering a $1,000 reward for anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a suspect or suspects.
"We are happy to announce that all parks have been canvased and we are confident that any hazardous objects have been removed from the parks," City Hall announced through the police department's Facebook page.
Follow Kara Berg on Twitter @karaberg95.
Contributing: Jordan Culver, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-09-23--Wayfair's biggest sale of the year is here—shop the 50 best Way Day deals of 2020

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
Attention , homebodies : At long last , Wayfair ’ s blockbuster savings event—Way Day 2020— is here , and this time around , the mega-sale is really living up to the hype .
Every year , bargain hunters , furniture aficionados and interior design lovers alike go wild over this sale , and it ’ s not hard to see why .
As one of the best places to shop for furniture online , Wayfair is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for around the house , and from now through Friday , September 25 at 3 a.m. ( EST ) , you can save up to 80 % on thousands of incredible home décor products , marking some of the retailer ’ s lowest prices of the year .
Not only that , you ’ ll also get free shipping on every order , regardless of how much you spend .
Need help finding products ?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter .
It ’ s free and you can unsubscribe at any time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over at the site ’ s sister brands , including AllModern , Joss & Main and Birch Lane , all of which fall under the Wayfair umbrella .
There ’ s a little something for everyone this Way Day—the only problem is that it can be a little overwhelming .
That 's why we ’ ve put together this list of all the best Way Day 2020 deals .
After all , your home is already where your heart is , so why not add a new sofa and a few extra lighting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quainter this fall ?
Here are 50 must-have furniture and décor items you don ’ t want to miss during this blowout event .
Spending time outdoors with loved ones has never felt so important .
If your patio or deck space could use a little TLC , you ’ re in the right place , because Way Day 2020 is your chance to shop and save a bundle on incredible patio furniture , grills and more .
Read on for blowout prices on pieces that will help you idle along on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your nearest and dearest .
• Get the Veradek Pure Series Plastic Pot Planter for $ 62.99 ( Save $ 17 ) • Get the Antoine Double Spreader Bar Hammock from $ 63.99 ( Save $ 15.50 to $ 25.50 ) • Get the Burruss Patio Sectional with Cushions for $ 343.99 ( Save $ 626.01 ) • Get the Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill for $ 479 ( Save $ 100.99 ) For many folks , working from home has become the new normal .
As a result , there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day to make sure you 're getting the absolute most out of your home office .
With a comfortable chair , or perhaps a more spacious desk , you 'll be well on your way to an incredible work-from-home setup .
• Get the Honey Can Do 3-Drawer Storage Chest for $ 54.99 ( Save $ 122.60 ) • Get the Pemberton Geometric Bookcase for $ 54.99 ( Save $ 85 ) • Get the Wayfair Basics Mesh Task Office Chair for $ 69.99 ( Save $ 90.02 ) • Get the Respawn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 165.99 ( Save $ 184.01 to $ 200.01 ) • Get the Imogen 55-inch x 24-inch Ladder Bookcase for $ 93.99 ( Save $ 114.01 to $ 115.01 ) • Get the Belvedere Height-Adjustable Standing Desk for $ 369.99 ( Save $ 533.01 ) As we enter into the colder months , it 's only natural to want spend more time in the kitchen , whether it may be to whip up a warm cup of soup or tea or cook a holiday meal with your loved ones .
This Way Day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things you 'll need to fully enjoy the space this fall and winter , from top-rated appliances to dinnerware and more .
• Get the Wayfair Basics Food Storage Set for $ 12.99 ( Save $ 7 ) • Get the Stockbridge Plastic 13-Gallon Step-On Trash Can for $ 27.99 ( Save $ 12.01 ) • Get the Bernon Wood Wall-Mounted Wine Glass Rack for $ 51.99 ( Save $ 48 ) • Get the Macy Kitchen Cart with Granite Top for $ 117.99 ( Save $ 152 ) • Get the VIGO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 148.26 ( Save $ 101.74 ) It 's hard to feel fresh and clean when your bathroom is in need of a serious upgrade .
Whether you ’ re working on a total refresh of your whiz palace or are just looking to snag a new shower curtain to spruce things up , there 's plenty of Way Day sale picks that will get the job done .
• Get the Rieke Floral Single Shower Curtain from $ 29.99 ( Save $ 50.01 ) • Get the VIGO Satro Single-Hole Bathroom Faucet from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 84.10 ) • Get the Newtown 36-inch Bathroom Vanity Set for $ 699.99 ( Save $ 808.01 $ 878.01 ) • Get the Newtown 48-inch Bathroom Vanity Set from $ 959.99 ( Save $ 1,188.01 to $ 1,198.01 ) Entryways set the tone for your entire home : After all , they 're the first thing to be seen when guests step inside and the last room they 'll get a glimpse of before heading out the door .
Luckily , since this space is relatively small , you do n't have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it an upgrade .
These simple additions from the Way Day sale may be just what you need to transform your entry and exit-way .
• Get the Odysseus Hall Tree with Bench and Shoe Storage from $ 59.99 ( Save $ 13 to $ 15 ) • Get the House of Hampton Victoria Faux Leather Flip-Top Storage Bench from $ 106.99 ( Save $ 65 to $ 125 ) • Get the Alcott Hill Mccopping Flip-Top Storage Bench from $ 233.99 ( Save $ 45 to $ 235 ) • Get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 299.99 ( Save $ 40 ) Whether you 're tuning into a Halloween movie marathon or settling in for a gaming session on your new PS5 or Xbox , you may be in the market for some more comfortable seating in your living room .
Thankfully , with sales galore here on sectionals , recliners and everything in between , Wayfair has you covered .
• Get the Ensa Barrel Chair from $ 102.99 ( Save $ 255 to $ 297 ) • Get the 3D Flame Effect Infrared Quartz Electric @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 to $ 73 ) • Get the Araceli Armchair for $ 186.99 ( Save $ 63 ) • Get the Bjorn 59-inch Rolled Arm Settee for $ 244.99 ( Save $ 111 to $ 991 ) • Get the Lorraine TV Stand with Electric Fireplace from $ 234.99 ( Save $ 125 ) • Get the Braemar Chaise Lounge for $ 269.99 ( Save $ 69.06 ) • Get the Lincolnton 20.5-inch Manual Recliner from $ 345.99 ( Save $ 104 to $ 108 ) • Get the Lift-Assist Power Reclining Massage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 93 to $ 99 ) ‘ Tis the season to save big on holiday décor !
By the time December rolls around , you ’ ll be glad you embraced the holiday spirit early and loaded up on these cheerful decorations during this savings event , including wreaths , artificial trees and more—all of which are on sale right now .
• Get the Tewkesbury Lighted Polyethylene Wreath for $ 63.99 ( Save $ 36 ) • Get the Norwood Fir Green Spruce Artificial Christmas Tree with Clear/White Lights for $ 73 ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Carolina Pine 7-Foot Artificial Christmas Tree with Clear/White Lights for $ 269.99 ( Save $ 265 ) Let there be light … and ample savings , courtesy of these stupendous Way Day 2020 deals on elegant lighting fixtures .
Case in point ?
This dimmable vanity option from Mercury Row .
Whether you ’ re trying to set a mood or brighten up your space , the right sconce—like this Antony one-light armed version—could make a world of difference .
• Get the Antony 1-Light Armed Sconce for $ 51.99 ( Save $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dimmable Vanity Light from $ 75.99 ( Save $ 49.01 to $ 59.01 ) Never underestimate the power of a good area rug to really tie a room together .
From abstract beauties to classic Oriental-style gems that can complement virtually any interior design aesthetic , the right pick can add a lot to your home .
During Way Day 2020 , you can score major savings along the way on top-rated selections , too .
• Get the Brandt Oriental Area Rug from $ 24.99 ( Save $ 50.01 to $ 53.01 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Navy/Aqua Area Rug from $ 45.99 ( Save $ 145.01 to 154.01 ) Don ’ t be afraid to spend your whole morning in bed .
With these savings , you can luxuriate in the heavenly hold of some cozy blankets after you give your room an opulent makeover .
From bedding that looks like it ’ s fit for royalty but comes at budget-friendly prices to mattress covers , headboards and more , you 'll fool your guests and relieve the strain on your wallet all-in-one .
• Get the Wayfair Sleep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20.99 ( Save $ 8 to $ 9 ) • Get the Franky Striped Sheet Set for $ 31.99 ( Save $ 83 ) • Get the Bovina Acrylic Throw from $ 40.99 ( Save $ 16.01 to $ 25.01 ) • Get the Cyril Bed Frame from $ 95.99 ( Save $ 48.46 to $ 58.26 ) • Get the Francis Upholstered Panel Headboard from $ 103.81 ( Save $ 59.82 to $ 104.03 ) • Get the Colby Tufted Upholstered Low Profile Platform Bed from $ 155.57 ( Save $ 63.43 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at stark walls and pillow-less sofas ?
You can shop some sensational deals on home décor , including mirrors , throw pillows and more , during this event .
These accessories can help add a little something extra to your home and give each room a much-needed pop of personality that ’ ll bring a smile to your face .
• Get the Wayfair Basics Rectangular Pillow Insert from $ 6.74 ( Save $ 9.94 to $ 10.25 ) • Get the Wayfair Basics Solid Single Curtain Panel from $ 9.48 ( Save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Get the Wayfair Basics End-Cap Single Curtain Rod from $ 15.99 ( Save $ 9.06 to $ 21.06 ) • Get the Mcpherson Square Cotton Pillow Cover and Insert from $ 25.99 ( Save $ 17.01 ) • Get the Drew 2-Piece Pine Floating Shelf from $ 47.18 ( Save $ 15.81 ) • Get the Modern and Contemporary Beveled Accent Mirror for $ 169.99 ( Save $ 175.06 ) The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

Isabelle Kagan and Shayna Murphy, Reviewed.com

Wayfair's biggest sale of the year ends today—shop the 75 best Way Day deals of 2020
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
Attention, homebodies: Wayfair’s blockbuster savings event—Way Day 2020— is ending today, and with some of these products marked down to the lowest prices you'll see all year, the mega-sale is really living up to the hype.
Bargain hunters, furniture aficionados and interior design lovers alike have been going wild over this sale, and it’s not hard to see why. As one of the best places to shop for furniture online, Wayfair is known for its inventory of chic-yet-affordable treasures for around the house. Running through 3 a.m. (EST), you can save up to 80% on thousands of incredible home décor products. Not only that, you’ll also get free shipping on every order, regardless of how much you spend.
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
The savings are just as good over at the site’s sister brands, including AllModern, Joss & Main and Birch Lane, all of which fall under the Wayfair umbrella. There’s a little something for everyone this Way Day—the only problem is that it can be a little overwhelming. That's why we’ve put together this list of all the best Way Day 2020 deals. After all, your home is already where your heart is, so why not add a new sofa and a few extra lighting fixtures to it to make it even quainter this fall? Here are 75 must-have furniture and décor items you don’t want to miss during this blowout event.
Spending time outdoors with loved ones has never felt so important. If your patio or deck space could use a little TLC, you’re in the right place, because Way Day 2020 is your chance to shop and save a bundle on incredible patio furniture, grills and more. Read on for blowout prices on pieces that will help you idle along on a crisp autumn night in the company of your nearest and dearest.
For many folks, working from home has become the new normal. As a result, there's never been a better time than Way Day to make sure you're getting the absolute most out of your home office. With a comfortable chair, or perhaps a more spacious desk, you'll be well on your way to an incredible work-from-home setup.
As we enter into the colder months, it's only natural to want spend more time in the kitchen, whether it may be to whip up a warm cup of soup or tea or cook a holiday meal with your loved ones. This Way Day, you can save big on all the things you'll need to fully enjoy the space this fall and winter, from top-rated appliances to dinnerware and more.
It's hard to feel fresh and clean when your bathroom is in need of a serious upgrade. Whether you’re working on a total refresh of your whiz palace or are just looking to snag a new shower curtain to spruce things up, there's plenty of Way Day sale picks that will get the job done.
Entryways set the tone for your entire home: After all, they're the first thing to be seen when guests step inside and the last room they'll get a glimpse of before heading out the door. Luckily, since this space is relatively small, you don't have to shell out a fortune to give it an upgrade. These simple additions from the Way Day sale may be just what you need to transform your entry and exit-way.
Whether you're tuning into a Halloween movie marathon or settling in for a gaming session on your new PS5 or Xbox, you may be in the market for some more comfortable seating in your living room. Thankfully, with sales galore here on sectionals, recliners and everything in between, Wayfair has you covered.
‘Tis the season to save big on holiday décor! By the time December rolls around, you’ll be glad you embraced the holiday spirit early and loaded up on these cheerful decorations during this savings event, including wreaths, artificial trees and more—all of which are on sale right now.
Let there be light … and ample savings, courtesy of these stupendous Way Day 2020 deals on elegant lighting fixtures. Case in point? This dimmable vanity option from Mercury Row. Whether you’re trying to set a mood or brighten up your space, the right sconce—like this Antony one-light armed version—could make a world of difference.
Never underestimate the power of a good area rug to really tie a room together. From abstract beauties to classic Oriental-style gems that can complement virtually any interior design aesthetic, the right pick can add a lot to your home. During Way Day 2020, you can score major savings along the way on top-rated selections, too.
Don’t be afraid to spend your whole morning in bed. With these savings, you can luxuriate in the heavenly hold of some cozy blankets after you give your room an opulent makeover. From bedding that looks like it’s fit for royalty but comes at budget-friendly prices to mattress covers, headboards and more, you'll fool your guests and relieve the strain on your wallet all-in-one.
Tired of looking at stark walls and pillow-less sofas? You can shop some sensational deals on home décor, including mirrors, throw pillows and more, during this event. These accessories can help add a little something extra to your home and give each room a much-needed pop of personality that’ll bring a smile to your face.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


usatoday--2020-09-23--Mr. President, people with COVID-19 are somebody to me, not 'nobody'

At a recent campaign rally , President Donald Trump stated that COVID-19 only affected “ elderly people with heart problems ” and otherwise affected “ virtually nobody.
” He used these words to downplay the devastation of this pandemic .
I hope that no one took those words to heart but instead recognized it as campaign rhetoric with no connection to reality .
We have surpassed 200,000 deaths in the United States from this virus .
Now is not the time to scale back our efforts on masks and social distancing .
People are still dying .
And what people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have recovered from COVID-19 , young and old , are left with long-term , debilitating complications afterward .
The president used those unempathetic words to reinforce the message that young people do not need to worry about the virus .
Tell that to the 30-year-olds we have had to intubate and place on ventilators in my hospital .
Tell that to the young professional that , even after his ordeal , suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after spending one month in a medically induced coma and whose muscles wasted away to the point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to walk normally .
Tell that to my pulmonologist colleague who is seeing several young people who , though they recovered from the coronavirus , are finding that they newly suffer from an asthma-like illness .
Unfortunately , these are not uncommon stories .
They are happening again and again around the country .
We are still discovering complications caused by the after effects of the virus .
And , despite the commonly held belief , children can still become infected with COVID-19 and need hospitalization .
It is much rarer when compared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Disease Control and Prevention acknowledge that several hundred children infected with the virus have required hospitalization since March .
Even if the president were right that only the elderly with preexisting conditions are affected , isn ’ t that still awful ?
My heart still breaks when I call family members to tell them their loved one will not recover but will die from COVID-19 .
Although elderly and already ill , they are still someone ’ s grandfather , grandmother , father , mother or friend .
More : COVID-19 is creating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to repair Many people want to believe the messaging that the virus ’ seriousness is overblown , and that the country should return to normal operations .
I get it .
Staying 6 feet apart under a mask does not feel natural .
We all miss being able to gather at restaurants and bars or going to see sporting events in person .
This has been difficult for everyone .
But it would much harder if you or a loved one became very sick from COVID-19 , or had persistent debilitating complications after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health , we need to continue these precautions until we are confident that we are all immune from further infection , possibly with a reliable vaccine .
This might not be for several more months , however .
Until then , these safety measures will be our best defense to keep virtually everybody safe .
Dr. Thomas Ken Lew is an assistant clinical professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine and an attending physician of Hospital Medicine at Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare .
Follow him on Twitter @ ThomasLewMD

Mr. President, people with COVID-19 are somebody to me, not 'nobody' Now is not the time to scale back our efforts to use masks and commitment to social distancing.
Show Caption Hide Caption COVID-19: How Herd Immunity works, why you still need to wear a mask Without masks and a vaccine, we could reach Herd Immunity from COVID-19, but deaths would skyrocket. We break down the science of it. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
At a recent campaign rally, President Donald Trump stated that COVID-19 only affected “elderly people with heart problems” and otherwise affected “virtually nobody.” He used these words to downplay the devastation of this pandemic.
I hope that no one took those words to heart but instead recognized it as campaign rhetoric with no connection to reality. We have surpassed 200,000 deaths in the United States from this virus. Now is not the time to scale back our efforts on masks and social distancing. People are still dying. And what people may not realize is that many who have recovered from COVID-19, young and old, are left with long-term, debilitating complications afterward.
The president used those unempathetic words to reinforce the message that young people do not need to worry about the virus. Tell that to the 30-year-olds we have had to intubate and place on ventilators in my hospital. Tell that to the young professional that, even after his ordeal, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after spending one month in a medically induced coma and whose muscles wasted away to the point he still needs physical therapy to learn to walk normally. Tell that to my pulmonologist colleague who is seeing several young people who, though they recovered from the coronavirus, are finding that they newly suffer from an asthma-like illness.
Unfortunately, these are not uncommon stories. They are happening again and again around the country. We are still discovering complications caused by the after effects of the virus. And, despite the commonly held belief, children can still become infected with COVID-19 and need hospitalization. It is much rarer when compared with adults, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention acknowledge that several hundred children infected with the virus have required hospitalization since March.
Even if the president were right that only the elderly with preexisting conditions are affected, isn’t that still awful? My heart still breaks when I call family members to tell them their loved one will not recover but will die from COVID-19. Although elderly and already ill, they are still someone’s grandfather, grandmother, father, mother or friend.
More: COVID-19 is creating ruinous economic damage that will take years to repair
Many people want to believe the messaging that the virus’ seriousness is overblown, and that the country should return to normal operations. I get it. Staying 6 feet apart under a mask does not feel natural. We all miss being able to gather at restaurants and bars or going to see sporting events in person. This has been difficult for everyone.
But it would much harder if you or a loved one became very sick from COVID-19, or had persistent debilitating complications after recovery. If we value life and health, we need to continue these precautions until we are confident that we are all immune from further infection, possibly with a reliable vaccine.
This might not be for several more months, however. Until then, these safety measures will be our best defense to keep virtually everybody safe.
Dr. Thomas Ken Lew is an assistant clinical professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine and an attending physician of Hospital Medicine at Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare. Follow him on Twitter @ThomasLewMD


usatoday--2020-09-22--Five-year-old rings end of treatment bell

James Locker was diagnosed with leukemia when he was only a year old .
After four years of chemotherapy , @ @ @ @ @ .

Five-year-old rings end of treatment bell
James Locker was diagnosed with leukemia when he was only a year old. After four years of chemotherapy, he is finally in remission.
Humankind, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-09-23--Beware of 'floating ant piles': Texans warned against walking in floodwater

Beware of 'floating ant piles ' : Texans warned against walking in floodwater League City , Texas , authorities are @ @ @ @ @ in floodwater because of `` floating ant piles . ''

Tropical Storm Beta: 'Ant piles' float in Texas floodwater
League City, Texas, authorities are warning people not to walk in floodwater because of "floating ant piles."
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usatoday--2020-09-23--'It's a shame': Trump reacts to COVID-19 death toll hitting 200,000

WASHINGTON – Making his first remarks on the latest grim milestone in the nation 's battle with coronavirus , President Donald Trump on Tuesday lamented the loss of 200,000 Americans who have died from the disease , describing it as `` a shame . ''
`` It 's a horrible thing , '' Trump told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House as he left for a rally in Pennsylvania .
`` It should have never , ever happened . ''
But speaking later at a rally in the battleground state of Pennsylvania , Trump mocked his Democratic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask – something his own administration has recommended – and asserted that his administration had done an `` A-plus job '' dealing with the pandemic .
During 90 minutes of remarks , Trump did not mention the death toll from the virus but instead blamedChina for allowing it to become a pandemic , promised a vaccine will be widely available for Americans soon and criticized social distancing measures approved by state officials that his own public health experts have called for .
`` You ca n't meet .
You ca n't congregate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .
`` You ca n't give your wife ... a kiss goodnight , you got ta wear a mask .
You ca n't do anything ! ''
As the nation surpassed another dark benchmark , Trump glossed over earlier predictions that if the number of deaths in the U.S. peaked at around 200,000 people that would indicate his administration had `` done a very good job . ''
`` And so , if we can hold that down , as we ’ re saying , to 100,000 – that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even less , but to 100,000 ; so we have between 100- and 200,000 – we all , together , have done a very good job , '' Trump said at the White House on March 30 .
Addressing thoseearlier projections , Trump said Tuesday at the White House that `` the original numbers were around 200,000 if you do it right , if you did a good job and if the public worked along .
And if you did n't do it right you 'd be at two million , two-and-a-half million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brief back and forth with reporters on the South Lawn , Trump asked a questioner to remove her mask .
When she asked why he had n't spoken about the death toll , Trump demurred : `` Go ahead .
Anybody else ? ''
Trump 's visit to Pennsylvania was sandwiched between additionaltwo seismic political events : Republicans largely coalescing around a plan to move quickly on Trump 's Supreme Court nominee to fill the seat left vacant by the death last week of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the first presidential debate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sept. 29 .
Trump mentioned the debate briefly on the rally stage , saying that Biden had `` been doing it all his life '' and adding that `` I ’ ve just started doing this stuff . ''
Trump carried Pennsylvania by just more than 44,000 votes in 2016 .
Polls show Biden with a a slim margin there : 4 points in the RealClearPolitics average of recent polls .
Trump , speaking at an outdoor rally at Pittsburgh International Airport , was making his fourth visit to the critical battleground this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should serve as a reminder of the state of current economic conditions under the Trump presidency .
`` Four years ago , candidate Donald Trump promised the hardworking people of Pittsburgh he would bring jobs back to the region , '' Biden said in a statement .
`` But since then , President Trump has only brought Pittsburgh economic turmoil under his watch . ''
The president has sought to project an image of returning to normal with his rallies , but they have drawn criticism from local public health officials .
More @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Supreme Court nominee More : Trump says he welcomes second impeachment over Supreme Court seat Trump has ramped up his campaign presence since formally accepting the GOP nomination , attending 10 rallies since late August and a handful of other rally-like events .
Most of those events have been held outdoors , though he has faced criticism for holding a few indoor events during a recent swing through the Southwest .
His supporters at those events rarely practice social distancing or wear masks .
Trump has been at odds in recent days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine timeline .
Trump has said every American will have access to a vaccine by April , but health officials note no vaccine has been approved yet and CDC officials have predicted a vaccine wo n't be widely available until the summer or fall of next year .
`` The fact that we have come nowhere near that number is a testament to this president taking immediate action , '' Kayleigh McEnany said earlier in the day , referring to the estimates that as many as 2 million could die from the virus @ @

John Fritze, Michael Collins and David Jackson, USA TODAY

'It's a shame': Trump reacts to COVID-19 death toll hitting 200,000
Show Caption Hide Caption US hits 200,000 COVID deaths as flu season looms ahead The U.S. has reached 200,000 deaths from the coronavirus. Now experts are looking ahead, and the forecast for the fall and winter isn't good. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – Making his first remarks on the latest grim milestone in the nation's battle with coronavirus, President Donald Trump on Tuesday lamented the loss of 200,000 Americans who have died from the disease, describing it as "a shame."
"It's a horrible thing," Trump told reporters on the South Lawn of the White House as he left for a rally in Pennsylvania. "It should have never, ever happened."
"It’s a shame," he added.
But speaking later at a rally in the battleground state of Pennsylvania, Trump mocked his Democratic opponent Joe Biden for wearing a face mask – something his own administration has recommended – and asserted that his administration had done an "A-plus job" dealing with the pandemic.
During 90 minutes of remarks, Trump did not mention the death toll from the virus but instead blamed China for allowing it to become a pandemic, promised a vaccine will be widely available for Americans soon and criticized social distancing measures approved by state officials that his own public health experts have called for.
"You can't meet. You can't congregate. You can't look at each other," he said. "You can't give your wife...a kiss goodnight, you gotta wear a mask. You can't do anything!"
As the nation surpassed another dark benchmark, Trump glossed over earlier predictions that if the number of deaths in the U.S. peaked at around 200,000 people that would indicate his administration had "done a very good job."
COVID-19: How Herd Immunity works, why you still need to wear a mask Without masks and a vaccine, we could reach Herd Immunity from COVID-19, but deaths would skyrocket. We break down the science of it. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
"And so, if we can hold that down, as we’re saying, to 100,000 – that’s a horrible number – maybe even less, but to 100,000; so we have between 100- and 200,000 – we all, together, have done a very good job," Trump said at the White House on March 30.
Addressing those earlier projections, Trump said Tuesday at the White House that "the original numbers were around 200,000 if you do it right, if you did a good job and if the public worked along. And if you didn't do it right you'd be at two million, two-and-a-half million."
At another point during his brief back and forth with reporters on the South Lawn, Trump asked a questioner to remove her mask. When she asked why he hadn't spoken about the death toll, Trump demurred: "Go ahead. Anybody else?"
Trump's visit to Pennsylvania was sandwiched between additional two seismic political events: Republicans largely coalescing around a plan to move quickly on Trump's Supreme Court nominee to fill the seat left vacant by the death last week of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the first presidential debate with Biden, set for Tuesday, Sept. 29.
Trump mentioned the debate briefly on the rally stage, saying that Biden had "been doing it all his life" and adding that "I’ve just started doing this stuff."
Trump carried Pennsylvania by just more than 44,000 votes in 2016. Polls show Biden with a a slim margin there: 4 points in the RealClearPolitics average of recent polls. Trump, speaking at an outdoor rally at Pittsburgh International Airport, was making his fourth visit to the critical battleground this month.
Biden argued that the trip should serve as a reminder of the state of current economic conditions under the Trump presidency.
"Four years ago, candidate Donald Trump promised the hardworking people of Pittsburgh he would bring jobs back to the region," Biden said in a statement. "But since then, President Trump has only brought Pittsburgh economic turmoil under his watch."
The president has sought to project an image of returning to normal with his rallies, but they have drawn criticism from local public health officials.
More: Republicans likely have support for Trump's Supreme Court nominee
More: Trump says he welcomes second impeachment over Supreme Court seat
Trump has ramped up his campaign presence since formally accepting the GOP nomination, attending 10 rallies since late August and a handful of other rally-like events. Most of those events have been held outdoors, though he has faced criticism for holding a few indoor events during a recent swing through the Southwest.
His supporters at those events rarely practice social distancing or wear masks.
Trump has been at odds in recent days with members of his administration on the vaccine timeline. Trump has said every American will have access to a vaccine by April, but health officials note no vaccine has been approved yet and CDC officials have predicted a vaccine won't be widely available until the summer or fall of next year.
"The fact that we have come nowhere near that number is a testament to this president taking immediate action," Kayleigh McEnany said earlier in the day, referring to the estimates that as many as 2 million could die from the virus."