usatoday--2020-06-25--DNC announces sweeping changes to convention, but Biden will still accept nomination in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE – Organizers upended the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday as they told state delegations not to travel to Milwaukee , moved the convention to a smaller venue and added satellite events around the country .
But even as Democrats downsize their convention – in contrast to what Republicans are doing – they say former Vice President Joe Biden will still formally accept the nomination in Milwaukee .
`` Vice President Biden intends to proudly accept his party 's nomination in Milwaukee and take the next step forward towards making Donald Trump a one-term president , '' Biden campaign manager @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The city of Milwaukee has been an incredible partner and we are committed to highlighting Wisconsin as a key battleground state at our convention this August . ''
The decision to overhaul plans for the August 17-20 convention came after consulting with public health officials about the COVID-19 pandemic , organizers said .
The moves by the Democrats stand in stark contrast to the Republicans , who shifted their main convention events from Charlotte , North Carolina , to Jacksonville , Florida , after North Carolina officials could n't promise that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect .
President Donald Trump plans to accept the renomination in front of large crowds expected to attend the Aug. 24-27 event .
Different approaches : Faced with coronavirus , Republican and Democratic leaders overhaul convention plans For the Democrats , delegates will cast votes remotely for the presidential nomination in what is shaping up to be a scaled-back and increasingly virtual event .
Organizers also announced that large-scale events , such as a welcome reception for delegates and media and a party for volunteers , are canceled as coronavirus cases surge in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to adapt to any situation , '' Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez said in a statement .
`` That 's exactly what we 've done with our convention .
Unlike this president , Joe Biden and Democrats are committed to protecting the health and safety of the American people . ''
He also praised convention organizers and Milwaukee officials for their handling of planning a major event amid a pandemic .
`` I could n't be prouder of the way our team has organized and mobilized to get out the vote and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and I 'm grateful for the extraordinary leadership of our partners in the city of Milwaukee , '' Perez said .
Organizers also announced that Fiserv Forum will no longer serve as the centerpiece of the convention , as all event proceedings will move from the arena in downtown Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Center .
While Biden is expected to travel to Milwaukee , state delegations are being told they should not plan to come to town for the event .
The convention , which was pushed back from July to August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visitors to Milwaukee this summer .
Clearly the number of attendees will now be far smaller .
Convention planners said Milwaukee , as host city , will still anchor the events for the week but added that programming will include live broadcasts and content from other `` satellite cities , locations and landmarks across the country . ''
Democrats are trying to honor their commitment to hold as much of the event in Milwaukee as possible , given the unpredictable nature of the coronavirus pandemic .
• State delegations should not plan to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conduct their official convention business remotely .
• A process is being developed to ensure all delegates can cast their votes remotely on the presidential nomination and all other convention matters .
• Milwaukee is set to anchor events every night Aug. 17-20 , but programming will now include live broadcast and content from `` other satellite cities , locations and landmarks '' across the United States .
• DNC standing committee meetings , which are tentatively set for the last week of July , will also take place virtually .
• U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as permanent chair of the convention and will preside over all official convention business .
• The convention program , including satellite broadcasts , will be led by Emmy Award-winning producer Ricky Kirschner .
In addition , Democrats are consulting with epidemiologists and infectious disease experts W. Ian Lipkin , director of the Center for Infection and Immunity at Columbia University , and Larry Brilliant , a former professor of epidemiology .
Earlier this month , Perez said he did n't know how many delegates would attend the party 's national convention in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage their event in Wisconsin 's largest city despite uncertainty caused by the coronavirus .
The team overseeing the 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee already had maximum authority to change the format , size and dates of the event under a sweeping resolution that party insiders approved in May .
`` Everything is on the line this November , which is why we must find creative and forward-looking ways to organize , mobilize , and unite our party around our shared values at the convention so that we can launch Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe Solmonese , CEO of the Democratic National Convention Committee .
Contact Mary Spicuzza at ( 414 ) 224-2324 or mary.spicuzza @ jrn.com .
Follow her on Twitter at @ MSpicuzzaMJS .

Mary Spicuzza and Bill Glauber, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

DNC announces sweeping changes to convention, but Biden will still accept nomination in Milwaukee
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden secures Democratic Party nomination for president Joe Biden won't officially become the Democratic Party's nominee until the DNC convention, but he's already got the delegates he needs. USA TODAY, Wochit
MILWAUKEE – Organizers upended the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday as they told state delegations not to travel to Milwaukee, moved the convention to a smaller venue and added satellite events around the country.
But even as Democrats downsize their convention – in contrast to what Republicans are doing – they say former Vice President Joe Biden will still formally accept the nomination in Milwaukee.
"Vice President Biden intends to proudly accept his party's nomination in Milwaukee and take the next step forward towards making Donald Trump a one-term president," Biden campaign manager Jen O'Malley Dillon said in a statement. "The city of Milwaukee has been an incredible partner and we are committed to highlighting Wisconsin as a key battleground state at our convention this August."
The decision to overhaul plans for the August 17-20 convention came after consulting with public health officials about the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers said.
The moves by the Democrats stand in stark contrast to the Republicans, who shifted their main convention events from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Jacksonville, Florida, after North Carolina officials couldn't promise that social distancing rules would not be in effect.
President Donald Trump plans to accept the renomination in front of large crowds expected to attend the Aug. 24-27 event.
Different approaches: Faced with coronavirus, Republican and Democratic leaders overhaul convention plans
For the Democrats, delegates will cast votes remotely for the presidential nomination in what is shaping up to be a scaled-back and increasingly virtual event.
Organizers also announced that large-scale events, such as a welcome reception for delegates and media and a party for volunteers, are canceled as coronavirus cases surge in the U.S.
"Leadership means being able to adapt to any situation," Democratic National Committee Chair Tom Perez said in a statement. "That's exactly what we've done with our convention. Unlike this president, Joe Biden and Democrats are committed to protecting the health and safety of the American people."
He also praised convention organizers and Milwaukee officials for their handling of planning a major event amid a pandemic.
"I couldn't be prouder of the way our team has organized and mobilized to get out the vote and ensure a successful convention anchored in Wisconsin, and I'm grateful for the extraordinary leadership of our partners in the city of Milwaukee," Perez said.
Organizers also announced that Fiserv Forum will no longer serve as the centerpiece of the convention, as all event proceedings will move from the arena in downtown Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Center. While Biden is expected to travel to Milwaukee, state delegations are being told they should not plan to come to town for the event.
The convention, which was pushed back from July to August, had been expected to draw 50,000 visitors to Milwaukee this summer. Clearly the number of attendees will now be far smaller.
Convention planners said Milwaukee, as host city, will still anchor the events for the week but added that programming will include live broadcasts and content from other "satellite cities, locations and landmarks across the country."
Democrats are trying to honor their commitment to hold as much of the event in Milwaukee as possible, given the unpredictable nature of the coronavirus pandemic.
Convention organizers also said:
State delegations should not plan to travel to Milwaukee and should plan to conduct their official convention business remotely.
A process is being developed to ensure all delegates can cast their votes remotely on the presidential nomination and all other convention matters.
Milwaukee is set to anchor events every night Aug. 17-20, but programming will now include live broadcast and content from "other satellite cities, locations and landmarks" across the United States.
DNC standing committee meetings, which are tentatively set for the last week of July, will also take place virtually.
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi will serve as permanent chair of the convention and will preside over all official convention business.
The convention program, including satellite broadcasts, will be led by Emmy Award-winning producer Ricky Kirschner.
In addition, Democrats are consulting with epidemiologists and infectious disease experts W. Ian Lipkin, director of the Center for Infection and Immunity at Columbia University, and Larry Brilliant, a former professor of epidemiology.
Earlier this month, Perez said he didn't know how many delegates would attend the party's national convention in Milwaukee, but he reaffirmed Democrats will stage their event in Wisconsin's largest city despite uncertainty caused by the coronavirus.
The team overseeing the 2020 Democratic National Convention in Milwaukee already had maximum authority to change the format, size and dates of the event under a sweeping resolution that party insiders approved in May.
"Everything is on the line this November, which is why we must find creative and forward-looking ways to organize, mobilize, and unite our party around our shared values at the convention so that we can launch Joe Biden to victory this fall," said Joe Solmonese, CEO of the Democratic National Convention Committee.
Contributing: John Diedrich, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Contact Mary Spicuzza at (414) 224-2324 or mary.spicuzza@jrn.com. Follow her on Twitter at @MSpicuzzaMJS.


usatoday--2020-06-26--At least 18 members of Texas family test positive for COVID-19 after surprise birthday party

AUSTIN – Eighteen members of a North Texas family tested positive for COVID-19 after attending a surprise birthday party in late May .
Only one member of the family unknowingly had the virus at the time of the party , WFAA reports .
“ We knew this was going to happen .
I mean this whole time this has been going on we ’ ve been terrified , ” Ron Barbosa told WFAA .
Barbosa , who is a volunteer EMT , and his wife , a doctor , chose not to attend the party , which was hosted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Barbosa said that his family suspects his nephew , who had a slight cough at the time of the party , was the family member who was unknowingly infected after possibly being exposed at work .
Those infected include two young children , Barbosa ’ s elderly parents and his sister , who is battling breast cancer .
Barbosa ’ s father , Frank , was admitted to the hospital on June 17 and placed in the intensive care unit soon after , where he remains .
Barbosa told WFAA that his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from recovered COVID-19 patients , who have established antibodies .
“ If you ’ ve recovered go donate your plasma , ” Barbosa .
While it appears that most of Barbosa ’ s family is on the road to recovery , the experience serves as a warning for what could happen even when proper safety precautions are attempted .
Barbosa says all 25 people who attended the party attempted to remain socially distant , and not all of the attendees were there for the entirety of the party .
However , in reference @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he also told BuzzFeed , “ My message is that if you ’ re going to see family and they don ’ t live with you , mask up and keep your distance .
I want everyone to be with their loved ones .
I just want everybody to be cautious and not try to take pictures and selfies with a group of 20 people.
” In Texas the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise , with 5,996 new cases reported Thursday , following two days of record highs .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the 14th day in a row Thursday , with state health officials reporting 4,738 patients in Texas hospitals .

Lauren Mitchell, Austin American-Statesman

At least 18 members of Texas family test positive for COVID-19 after surprise birthday party
Show Caption Hide Caption Texas reopening on 'pause' as virus cases soar Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is pausing the state's aggressive reopening as it deals with a surge in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. The number of patients admitted with COVID-19 has more than doubled in just two weeks. (June 25) AP
AUSTIN, Texas – Eighteen members of a north Texas family have tested positive for COVID-19 after attending a surprise birthday party in late May.
Only one member of the family unknowingly had the virus at the time of the party, WFAA-TV reports.
“We knew this was going to happen," Ron Barbosa told WFAA. 'I mean, this whole time this has been going on we’ve been terrified."
Barbosa, who is a volunteer EMT, and his wife, a doctor, chose not to attend the party, which was hosted by his nephew, due to safety reasons. Barbosa said that his family suspects that his nephew, who had a slight cough at the time of the party, was the family member who was unknowingly infected after possibly being exposed at work.
Those infected include two young children; Barbosa’s elderly parents; and his sister, who is battling breast cancer.
Barbosa’s father, Frank, was admitted to the hospital June 17 and placed in the intensive care unit soon after, where he remains.
Barbosa told WFAA that his father is in need of blood plasma from recovered COVID-19 patients, who have established antibodies.
“If you’ve recovered, go donate your plasma,” Barbosa said.
While it appears that most of Barbosa’s family is on the road to recovery, the experience serves as a warning for what could happen even when proper safety precautions are attempted. Barbosa says all 25 people who attended the party attempted to remain socially distant, and not all of the attendees were there for the entirety of the party.
But in reference to a photo taken at the party, he also told BuzzFeed, “My message is that if you’re going to see family and they don’t live with you, mask up and keep your distance. I want everyone to be with their loved ones. I just want everybody to be cautious and not try to take pictures and selfies with a group of 20 people.”
In Texas, the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise, with 5,996 new cases reported Thursday, following two days of record highs. The state also broke its record for hospitalizations for the 14th day in a row Thursday, with state health officials reporting 4,738 patients in Texas hospitals.
Follow Lauren Mitchell on Twitter: @renlaux


usatoday--2020-06-26--Southern towns grapple with their pasts as they host Black Lives Matter protests

A crowd of 500 people gathered under an expansive blue sky at the base of a rusty bridge that crosses the Intracoastal Waterway in Belle Chasse , Louisiana , on June 12 .
Most wore black T-shirts that read `` Black Lives Matter '' and carried signs echoing the words and names of Black Americans whose deaths have prompted protests nationwide : George Floyd and Breonna Taylor , among others .
Marva Trufant , 74 , was determined to walk across the bridge despite the 90-degree heat .
Her family was worried about her .
She had not felt comfortable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day as she had done before the COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone indoors in late March .
She was nervous about being around a large crowd of people for the first time in months .
“ But I had to push that aside .
We were there for something bigger , something more important .
I was at least going to walk that bridge , ” said Trufant , who has worked as a civil rights activist in Plaquemines Parish since the early 1980s .
June 12 marked the first time Belle Chasse , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organized a large protest in support of the Black Lives Matter movement , according to organizers .
The march came in the wake of continuous nationwide protests that erupted in the aftermath of the death of Floyd , a 46-year-old Black man who died on Memorial Day after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds .
While the national lens has been largely trained on bigger cities , protests in small towns and cities across the South have stirred up long-silenced conversations on racial justice in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the heart of where the civil rights movement began , is home to the largest population of Black Americans in the country .
People who identify as Black make up about 55 % of the population , according to 2010 data from the U.S. Census Bureau .
A total of 105 Southern counties have a Black population of 50 % or higher .
As protests in support of Black Lives Matter spread from vast metropolitan areas to smaller cities and towns , communities across this region have been forced to face their past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all residents .
It has stoked fear among some members of these communities , including those who threatened to disrupt protests in Belle Chasse and Chalmette , Louisiana .
It has compelled longtime activists like Trufant in Belle Chasse and Lorraine Bates , 70 , in Petal , Mississippi , to march once again .
A new generation of organizers , some just teenagers and others well into adulthood , has been inspired to march and organize for the first time .
Names like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor being called out like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these communities — but other names are recited as well .
Marc Davis , who died after he was shot by a police officer in Petal , Mississippi , in 2017 .
Nimali Henry , who died after she was denied medication for a blood disorder while she was in custody at the St. Bernard Parish Jail in 2014 in southeast Louisiana .
In a matter of weeks , the protests have already yielded change in rural corners of the South .
One needs to look no further than St. Landry Parish , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where 42 % of the 82,000 residents are Black .
In early June , a St. Landry Parish sheriff ’ s deputy was fired after posting an offensive meme on Facebook about Minneapolis protesters .
St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz said the post violated the department ’ s social media policy .
“ Conversations are being had that people refused to have , '' Belle Chasse resident Candice Dinet said as she marched June 12 with about 500 neighbors and family members .
`` It ’ s all coming up to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going away anytime soon.
” Belle Chasse , La .
: 'Protests have woken a lot of folks up' '' There are people in Belle Chasse that believe everything is fine here , '' said Abby Taylor , a Belle Chasse resident and one of the organizers of the June 12 march .
“ I was getting word from police , and they thought we wouldn ’ t bring even 25 people to the march .
They think there isn ’ t a problem here , ” Taylor said .
“ Well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems in our community , because everyone there had a story to share.
” The crowd of mostly Black residents marched over the bridge and back toward the city through a tunnel that crosses under the waterway that separates Plaquemines Parish from neighboring Jefferson Parish .
Police barricades were set up along a 2-mile stretch of commercial corridor .
Some businesses by the bridge boarded up windows with plywood ahead of the march .
The barricades were symbolic for Taylor .
“ It felt like we were being confined , '' she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walking all around us through the march like we were prisoners .
In my mind that was a subliminal message : 'We are still in control of you . '
`` Longtime activist Trufant ’ s goal was to walk the bridge .
More commonly known as the Belle Chasse bridge , it was officially named after Leander Perez , the staunch segregationist who ran the parish from 1919 until his death in 1969 .
Trufant remembers having to walk to school as a child because school buses weren ’ t provided for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time .
Under Perez ’ s leadership , schools were not desegregated until 1967 .
“ I want the name of that bridge changed .
Let it be the Belle Chasse bridge , '' Trufant said .
`` Once I got up there , I was angry .
I had a weird feeling .
I felt like I was walking on him.
” Prattville , Ala. : 'We need to take care of one another' Earnest prayers for forgiveness and unity and trust and love echoed through downtown Prattville , Alabama , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people gathered by City Hall as pastors from nine local churches and others offered prayers amid widespread civil unrest gripping the nation .
Mayor Bill Gillespie Jr. announced the vigil a few nights before at a city council meeting .
`` We need prayer , and we need to take care of one another , '' he said then .
`` The only way we are going to get through this is by taking care of one another . ''
Prattville is a city of about 40,000 , just 10 minutes north of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figures show it is about 76 % white and 19 % Black .
It is the county seat of Autauga County , a conservative bastion , where 73 % of the vote went to President Donald Trump in 2016 .
Ministers who took part were evenly split , representing predominantly white and Black churches .
There were pastors from high steeple churches with congregations in the thousands and ministers from smaller churches .
The gathering quickly took on the spirit of a church service , complete with hand-held paper fans .
Some went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City Hall .
After the vigil ended , dozens of people lingered .
Social distancing was put on hold as hugs were given and cheeks were kissed .
“ We needed this , ” Bree Carter said .
“ Prattville always comes together when things get tough.
” Since May 28 , she has walked a daily slow mile from her home to call for the resignation of Petal Mayor Hal Marx .
Protests began in Petal , Mississippi , last month after Marx made comments on social media about Floyd ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activism .
She began when she was 13 during the civil rights movement .
She has become iconic locally , showing up to protests wearing chains around her hands , a noose around her neck and a white cloak with the words “ Black Lives Matter ” and “ Mama I Can ’ t Breathe ” written on the billowing cloth .
She brought a recording of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a 1968 copy of a Life magazine cover of Coretta Scott King with her to a City Hall meeting .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ she said .
Protests in the wake of Floyd ’ s death have rippled this quiet town , known locally as the `` Friendly City '' as well as the “ safest city in Mississippi , ” according to several online polls .
It ’ s the type of place where family picnics and spring baseball games are the norm .
It ’ s a small city , made up of about 11,000 residents , of whom about 85 % identify as white , according to U.S. census data from 2010 .
Petal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Imperial Wizard Richard Greene and is located in Forrest County , which was named after Confederate Army Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest , the first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan .
The protests in Petal have been relatively peaceful .
While no public opposition to the protests has been voiced , some community members have been outspoken about their feelings , offering support for the beleaguered mayor .
Members of the Citizens Militia of Mississippi recently attended at least one rally in Petal but did not interfere with the protests .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed with guns and batons , but the weapons were never drawn .
Citizens Militia of Mississippi members declined to comment , but said they came to the rally only to observe .
The protest , and others that followed , continued peacefully and without further incident .
Protesters also called out Marx for taking no action on the death of 34-year-old Marc Davis of LaPlace , Louisiana , who was shot to death by Petal police officer Aaron Jernigan in June 2017 .
Davis had been involved in a car wreck and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an altercation allegedly broke out between the two men .
An investigation led by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation determined there was no wrongdoing involved in Davis ' death .
Davis ' mother , Catherine Davis , attended protests in Petal and Jackson to raise awareness of her son 's death and ask Attorney General Lynn Fitch to reopen the case .
`` I feel like I have to humanize my child , '' she said .
`` I 'm going to tell you how real my child was .
How he mattered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Black man .
Marc had the biggest laugh , the biggest smile . ''
A demonstration against police brutality and racial injustice in Chalmette , Louisiana , on June 6 was the first of its kind , drawing support and opposition ahead of it , according to organizers .
Ahead of the rally Leandre “ Lax ” Shaw , 22 , had seen rumors of looters and antifa invading Chalmette spreading through social media .
It was enough to keep some from participating .
“ There is a lot of racial tension @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of response we got from the community was that it was a Black versus white thing , and I had to say it was an everybody versus racism thing , ” Shaw said .
The threats weren ’ t enough to keep more than 300 people from gathering at the Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park in Chalmette , a small city of about 17,000 residents .
Although still home to a predominantly white population , St. Bernard Parish has quickly become more diverse in recent years with a growing Hispanic and Black population @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Chalmette High School , marched with his father .
Dier noticed that the group was also marching right past a spot where the KKK once frequently held its rallies .
His father once told him about riding his bike past the civic center in 1977 and seeing white hoods and burning crosses outside .
“ It felt like poetic justice that they picked this spot to hold the first Black Lives Matter rally , ” Dier said .
“ … I think it ’ s incredibly powerful to have that space actually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” He grew up in St. Bernard Parish , a community east of New Orleans surrounded by water and home to about 47,000 people .
It was the site of the 1868 St. Bernard Parish Massacre where between 35 and 130 freed black people were killed by white residents ahead of a presidential election .
`` I grew up here and had never heard about it until I started researching the history of the parish , '' he said .
`` When I came across it , I was astounded that this was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parish or Louisiana or the United States . ''
Middle and West Tennessee : 'Change begins right here' It was a tale of two protests on June 14 in Ashland City , a town of about 4,500 in Middle Tennessee , where dozens gathered to be heard .
In front of the county courthouse , the first group carried signs with messages including : “ Hillbilly ’ s for Black Lives , ” “ Equal rights for others does not mean less rights for you .
It ’ s not pie , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broken , it was built that way.
” Jim Brooks , donning a mask amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak and holding onto a “ Black Lives Matter ” sign , said he was there to “ stand up for what is right ” and join others in expressing concerns .
“ I hate to see ( this ) level of anger , ” he added .
Some of that anger was across the street , where a second group countered with “ All Lives Matter , ” while waving American and Confederate flags @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 15,500 , leaders with the city , police , NAACP and chamber of commerce worked together to organize a peace rally on June 7 .
Brandon Williams , who grew up nearby and helped organize the rally , said change required stepping out of comfort zones .
“ I think it comes down to cultural differences .
It comes down to experiencing new people , experiencing new things , ” Williams said .
Williams asked everyone in attendance to say hello to a person they ’ ve never met .
Watching as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another , smiling and talking , Williams said that moment was maybe the most impressive of the rally .
“ Seeing everyone talking with each other .
Seeing everyone putting aside their differences .
That ’ s what we need now , ” Williams said .
Protests reached some of the smallest of cities , including Humboldt , population 8,200 , in West Tennessee .
Dozens of people gathered in the town ’ s Viking Park for a rally titled “ Enough is Enough : Let Us Breathe.
” Fort Smith , Ark @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but we 're mighty' Isaac Haynes led a candlelit vigil in Fort Smith , Arkansas , last month , reading out the ages of Black men killed by police in the United States .
The vigil held in the aftermath of Floyd 's death drew scores of community members , public officials and police officers .
It was the first of several actions that took place in the city starting May 29 .
Fort Smith police have generally been well received at recent Black Lives Matter protests throughout the city since Floyd 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensured the demonstrations take “ a peaceful course ” of action while also providing safety for demonstrators .
But while local officials showed their support of the vigil and released public statements condemning the actions that led to Floyd 's death , several community members spoke out about their wariness of police in general .
Deondre Phillips said he has concerns “ every day ” about his and other Black residents ’ interactions with police officers .
“ I trust the people in Fort Smith .
I feel like it ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to look over your shoulder every now and then , ” he said .
“ This is a very sad time because I have young Black men as sons , ” said Larry Bedell .
However , Haynes said he was “ sadly ” thankful the Floyd video surfaced .
Bedell agreed .
“ What ’ s so beautiful about it is it didn ’ t make me mad , it made everybody mad .
We ’ ve got every color out here right now , ” he said .
“ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re mighty.
” USA TODAY Network reporters Maria Clark , Marty Roney , Lici Beveridge , Andrew Yawn , Todd A .
Price , Ashley White , Cam Bonelli , Max Bryan , Kelly Fisher , Lasherica Thornton and Chris Gadd contributed to this report .

Southern towns grapple with their pasts as they host Black Lives Matter protests
Show Caption Hide Caption Key things that propel a protest to a successful movement Do protests ever enact real change? Yes. But not all movements are created equal. Here's the ingredients of a successful movement. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
A crowd of 500 people gathered under an expansive blue sky at the base of a rusty bridge that crosses the Intracoastal Waterway in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, on June 12.
Most wore black T-shirts that read "Black Lives Matter" and carried signs echoing the words and names of Black Americans whose deaths have prompted protests nationwide: George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, among others.
Marva Trufant, 74, was determined to walk across the bridge despite the 90-degree heat.
Her family was worried about her. She had not felt comfortable going out to walk a mile a day as she had done before the COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone indoors in late March.
She was nervous about being around a large crowd of people for the first time in months.
“But I had to push that aside. We were there for something bigger, something more important. I was at least going to walk that bridge,” said Trufant, who has worked as a civil rights activist in Plaquemines Parish since the early 1980s.
A crowd of 500 marches against police brutality and racial injustice in Belle Chasse, LA A crowd of 500 marches against police brutality and racial injustice in Belle Chasse, LA The American South
June 12 marked the first time Belle Chasse, a city of about 13,000, ever organized a large protest in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, according to organizers. The march came in the wake of continuous nationwide protests that erupted in the aftermath of the death of Floyd, a 46-year-old Black man who died on Memorial Day after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds.
While the national lens has been largely trained on bigger cities, protests in small towns and cities across the South have stirred up long-silenced conversations on racial justice in these communities.
The U.S. South, the heart of where the civil rights movement began, is home to the largest population of Black Americans in the country. People who identify as Black make up about 55% of the population, according to 2010 data from the U.S. Census Bureau. A total of 105 Southern counties have a Black population of 50% or higher.
As protests in support of Black Lives Matter spread from vast metropolitan areas to smaller cities and towns, communities across this region have been forced to face their past and debate the best steps forward for all residents.
It has stoked fear among some members of these communities, including those who threatened to disrupt protests in Belle Chasse and Chalmette, Louisiana. It has compelled longtime activists like Trufant in Belle Chasse and Lorraine Bates, 70, in Petal, Mississippi, to march once again.
A new generation of organizers, some just teenagers and others well into adulthood, has been inspired to march and organize for the first time. Names like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor being called out like a mantra across America are echoed in these communities — but other names are recited as well.
Marc Davis, who died after he was shot by a police officer in Petal, Mississippi, in 2017.
Nimali Henry, who died after she was denied medication for a blood disorder while she was in custody at the St. Bernard Parish Jail in 2014 in southeast Louisiana.
In a matter of weeks, the protests have already yielded change in rural corners of the South.
One needs to look no further than St. Landry Parish, just north of Lafayette, Louisiana, where 42% of the 82,000 residents are Black. In early June, a St. Landry Parish sheriff’s deputy was fired after posting an offensive meme on Facebook about Minneapolis protesters. St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz said the post violated the department’s social media policy.
“Conversations are being had that people refused to have," Belle Chasse resident Candice Dinet said as she marched June 12 with about 500 neighbors and family members. "It’s all coming up to the surface, and it’s not going away anytime soon.”
Belle Chasse, La.: 'Protests have woken a lot of folks up'
"There are people in Belle Chasse that believe everything is fine here," said Abby Taylor, a Belle Chasse resident and one of the organizers of the June 12 march.
“I was getting word from police, and they thought we wouldn’t bring even 25 people to the march. They think there isn’t a problem here,” Taylor said. “Well, there are at least 400 to 500 problems in our community, because everyone there had a story to share.”
The crowd of mostly Black residents marched over the bridge and back toward the city through a tunnel that crosses under the waterway that separates Plaquemines Parish from neighboring Jefferson Parish. Police barricades were set up along a 2-mile stretch of commercial corridor. Some businesses by the bridge boarded up windows with plywood ahead of the march.
The barricades were symbolic for Taylor.
“It felt like we were being confined," she said. "Sheriff’s deputies were walking all around us through the march like we were prisoners. In my mind that was a subliminal message: 'We are still in control of you.' "
Longtime activist Trufant’s goal was to walk the bridge. More commonly known as the Belle Chasse bridge, it was officially named after Leander Perez, the staunch segregationist who ran the parish from 1919 until his death in 1969. Trufant remembers having to walk to school as a child because school buses weren’t provided for Black children in the parish at the time. Under Perez’s leadership, schools were not desegregated until 1967.
“I want the name of that bridge changed. Let it be the Belle Chasse bridge," Trufant said. "Once I got up there, I was angry. I had a weird feeling. I felt like I was walking on him.”
Prattville, Ala.: 'We need to take care of one another'
Earnest prayers for forgiveness and unity and trust and love echoed through downtown Prattville, Alabama, the morning of June 5.
About 200 people gathered by City Hall as pastors from nine local churches and others offered prayers amid widespread civil unrest gripping the nation.
Mayor Bill Gillespie Jr. announced the vigil a few nights before at a city council meeting.
"We need prayer, and we need to take care of one another," he said then. "The only way we are going to get through this is by taking care of one another."
Prattville is a city of about 40,000, just 10 minutes north of the capital city of Montgomery. Census figures show it is about 76% white and 19% Black. It is the county seat of Autauga County, a conservative bastion, where 73% of the vote went to President Donald Trump in 2016.
Ministers who took part were evenly split, representing predominantly white and Black churches. There were pastors from high steeple churches with congregations in the thousands and ministers from smaller churches.
The gathering quickly took on the spirit of a church service, complete with hand-held paper fans. Some went to their knees on the lawn of City Hall.
After the vigil ended, dozens of people lingered. Social distancing was put on hold as hugs were given and cheeks were kissed.
“We needed this,” Bree Carter said. “Prattville always comes together when things get tough.”
Petal, Miss.: Mayor faces calls for his resignation
Lorraine Bates, 70, doesn't have a vehicle.
Since May 28, she has walked a daily slow mile from her home to call for the resignation of Petal Mayor Hal Marx.
Protests began in Petal, Mississippi, last month after Marx made comments on social media about Floyd’s death.
Bates is not new to activism. She began when she was 13 during the civil rights movement. She has become iconic locally, showing up to protests wearing chains around her hands, a noose around her neck and a white cloak with the words “Black Lives Matter” and “Mama I Can’t Breathe” written on the billowing cloth.
She brought a recording of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a 1968 copy of a Life magazine cover of Coretta Scott King with her to a City Hall meeting.
“I needed them today," she said.
Protests in the wake of Floyd’s death have rippled this quiet town, known locally as the "Friendly City" as well as the “safest city in Mississippi,” according to several online polls.
It’s the type of place where family picnics and spring baseball games are the norm. It’s a small city, made up of about 11,000 residents, of whom about 85% identify as white, according to U.S. census data from 2010.
Petal is home to former Mississippi White Knights Imperial Wizard Richard Greene and is located in Forrest County, which was named after Confederate Army Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, the first grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan.
The protests in Petal have been relatively peaceful. While no public opposition to the protests has been voiced, some community members have been outspoken about their feelings, offering support for the beleaguered mayor. Members of the Citizens Militia of Mississippi recently attended at least one rally in Petal but did not interfere with the protests. Some of the group’s members were armed with guns and batons, but the weapons were never drawn.
Citizens Militia of Mississippi members declined to comment, but said they came to the rally only to observe.
The protest, and others that followed, continued peacefully and without further incident.
Protesters also called out Marx for taking no action on the death of 34-year-old Marc Davis of LaPlace, Louisiana, who was shot to death by Petal police officer Aaron Jernigan in June 2017.
Davis had been involved in a car wreck and was filing a report with Jernigan when an altercation allegedly broke out between the two men.
An investigation led by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation determined there was no wrongdoing involved in Davis' death.
Davis' mother, Catherine Davis, attended protests in Petal and Jackson to raise awareness of her son's death and ask Attorney General Lynn Fitch to reopen the case.
"I feel like I have to humanize my child," she said. "I'm going to tell you how real my child was. How he mattered. Marc was a family man, a Black man. Marc had the biggest laugh, the biggest smile."
Chalmette, La.: 'An everybody versus racism thing'
A demonstration against police brutality and racial injustice in Chalmette, Louisiana, on June 6 was the first of its kind, drawing support and opposition ahead of it, according to organizers.
Ahead of the rally Leandre “Lax” Shaw, 22, had seen rumors of looters and antifa invading Chalmette spreading through social media. It was enough to keep some from participating.
“There is a lot of racial tension in St. Bernard Parish. The type of response we got from the community was that it was a Black versus white thing, and I had to say it was an everybody versus racism thing,” Shaw said.
The threats weren’t enough to keep more than 300 people from gathering at the Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park in Chalmette, a small city of about 17,000 residents. Although still home to a predominantly white population, St. Bernard Parish has quickly become more diverse in recent years with a growing Hispanic and Black population.
Chris Dier, a history teacher at Chalmette High School, marched with his father.
Dier noticed that the group was also marching right past a spot where the KKK once frequently held its rallies.
His father once told him about riding his bike past the civic center in 1977 and seeing white hoods and burning crosses outside.
“It felt like poetic justice that they picked this spot to hold the first Black Lives Matter rally,” Dier said. “… I think it’s incredibly powerful to have that space actually be reclaimed for a more noble cause.”
He grew up in St. Bernard Parish, a community east of New Orleans surrounded by water and home to about 47,000 people. It was the site of the 1868 St. Bernard Parish Massacre where between 35 and 130 freed black people were killed by white residents ahead of a presidential election.
Dier wrote a book about the massacre.
"I grew up here and had never heard about it until I started researching the history of the parish," he said. "When I came across it, I was astounded that this was not common knowledge for people in the parish or Louisiana or the United States."
Middle and West Tennessee: 'Change begins right here'
It was a tale of two protests on June 14 in Ashland City, a town of about 4,500 in Middle Tennessee, where dozens gathered to be heard.
In front of the county courthouse, the first group carried signs with messages including: “Hillbilly’s for Black Lives,” “Equal rights for others does not mean less rights for you. It’s not pie,” and “The system isn’t broken, it was built that way.”
Jim Brooks, donning a mask amid the ongoing coronavirus outbreak and holding onto a “Black Lives Matter” sign, said he was there to “stand up for what is right” and join others in expressing concerns.
“I hate to see (this) level of anger,” he added.
Some of that anger was across the street, where a second group countered with “All Lives Matter,” while waving American and Confederate flags.
In nearby Dickson, a city of 15,500, leaders with the city, police, NAACP and chamber of commerce worked together to organize a peace rally on June 7.
Brandon Williams, who grew up nearby and helped organize the rally, said change required stepping out of comfort zones.
“I think it comes down to cultural differences. It comes down to experiencing new people, experiencing new things,” Williams said.
Williams asked everyone in attendance to say hello to a person they’ve never met. Watching as members of the crowd turned to one another, smiling and talking, Williams said that moment was maybe the most impressive of the rally.
“Seeing everyone talking with each other. Seeing everyone putting aside their differences. That’s what we need now,” Williams said.
Protests reached some of the smallest of cities, including Humboldt, population 8,200, in West Tennessee.
Dozens of people gathered in the town’s Viking Park for a rally titled “Enough is Enough: Let Us Breathe.”
Fort Smith, Ark.: 'We may be small, but we're mighty'
Isaac Haynes led a candlelit vigil in Fort Smith, Arkansas, last month, reading out the ages of Black men killed by police in the United States.
"46. 12. 17. 26. 22. 32."
The vigil held in the aftermath of Floyd's death drew scores of community members, public officials and police officers. It was the first of several actions that took place in the city starting May 29.
Fort Smith police have generally been well received at recent Black Lives Matter protests throughout the city since Floyd's death.
Police at the protests have ensured the demonstrations take “a peaceful course” of action while also providing safety for demonstrators.
But while local officials showed their support of the vigil and released public statements condemning the actions that led to Floyd's death, several community members spoke out about their wariness of police in general.
Deondre Phillips said he has concerns “every day” about his and other Black residents’ interactions with police officers.
“I trust the people in Fort Smith. I feel like it’s a very safe place, but you still have to look over your shoulder every now and then,” he said.
“This is a very sad time because I have young Black men as sons,” said Larry Bedell.
However, Haynes said he was “sadly” thankful the Floyd video surfaced. Bedell agreed.
“What’s so beautiful about it is it didn’t make me mad, it made everybody mad. We’ve got every color out here right now,” he said. “We may be small, but we’re mighty.”
USA TODAY Network reporters Maria Clark, Marty Roney, Lici Beveridge, Andrew Yawn, Todd A. Price, Ashley White, Cam Bonelli, Max Bryan, Kelly Fisher, Lasherica Thornton and Chris Gadd contributed to this report.


usatoday--2020-06-26--20 recent NFL first-round picks who could be on the hot seat in 2020

The NFL 's proverbial hot seat is predominantly reserved for head coaches – and , occasionally , for starting quarterbacks precariously positioned ahead of a capable or enticing backup .
But it does n't take long for recent first-round draftees to feel the heat , either – even quarterbacks who are top-10 picks , as evidenced by the Arizona Cardinals ' divorce from Josh Rosen after just one season .
There will be obvious pressure this season on several players picked in Round 1 of the 2017 draft given 13 of them – including four of the top five selections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ declined .
Others , including a couple from the 2015 draft , have exhausted their rookie deals but still seek long-term commitments from their original clubs .
There are even a few players taken in 2019 who might already find themselves under relatively intense scrutiny .
Here are 20 recent first-rounders – none have landed a second multi-year contract – to keep an eye on in 2020 : 1 .
Denver Broncos LT Garett Bolles : The 20th overall pick in 2017 , he 's never missed a start and played better toward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drew Lock galvanized the club .
Still , mistakes have been a thematic issue – Bolles has 45 penalties in three seasons – and have been bemoaned by GM John Elway , who chose not to pick up the fifth-year option of Lock 's blind-side bodyguard even though Bolles allowed just four sacks last year .
But if he cleans up the mental aspects of his game for a team that could be sneaky dangerous , Bolles might give Elway a dilemma next offseason .
2 .
New Orleans Saints DE Marcus Davenport @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when the Saints traded two first-round picks to select Davenport 14th overall out of Texas-San Antonio , ostensibly as one of the final pieces to a championship equation .
To date , the gamble has n't paid off , Davenport collecting 10½ sacks and 28 quarterback hits in two seasons while failing to make an impact in the playoffs .
A pass rusher who benefits from playing alongside Cam Jordan really needs to ante up soon .
3 .
Tennessee Titans WR Corey Davis : A top-five pick in 2017 , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
1-caliber receiver and was surpassed by rookie A.J .
Brown last year .
Davis , whose 2021 option was declined , still has a year to justify his No .
5 overall selection status and might benefit from rare offensive continuity in Tennessee ... assuming QB Ryan Tannehill picks up where he left off in 2019 .
4 .
Philadelphia Eagles LT Andre Dillard : His 2019 rookie season was n't a true redshirt situation given Dillard started four times and served as a swing tackle , though he struggled during that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have yet to re-sign likely Hall of Famer Jason Peters , apparently comfortable Dillard can safeguard oft-injured QB Carson Wentz .
Quite a gamble given Dillard has n't had a traditional offseason to bolster his readiness for the role .
5 .
Pittsburgh Steelers OLB Bud Dupree : The 22nd pick in 2015 , he concluded his rookie contract last season by turning in a career-high 11½ sacks , nearly double his previous personal best .
The Steelers placed the franchise tag on Dupree , so he stands to make $ 15.8 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extension .
However Pittsburgh also drafted OLB Alex Highsmith – he had 15 sacks for Charlotte last year – in the third round , and his development could directly affect Dupree if an extension is n't reached .
6 .
Jacksonville Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette : The No .
4 pick three years ago , he 's been productive , churning out a career-best 1,152 rushing yards and 76 catches in 2019 .
He 's also been an occasional malcontent whom the Jags attempted to trade prior to the draft before declining his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Fournette might be getting off to a hot start and being dealt before the deadline into a situation that better suits him personally and professionally – a scenario that worked out nicely for former teammate Dante Fowler .
Regardless , Fournette will need to keep focus on his performance , not off-field issues , in order to land the type of second contract his talents merit .
7 .
Houston Texans WR Will Fuller : He 's entering the final year of his rookie contract and needs to perform like a guy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million .
When Fuller 's on the field , his deep-threat ability has a noticeable impact on this offense – and he 's now the veteran wideout here with DeAndre Hopkins now in Arizona .
Fuller will have help from recent acquisitions Randall Cobb and Brandin Cooks as it pertains to replacing Hopkins ' production , but must stay healthy – he 's missed 22 games in four seasons – if he 's going to graduate to No .
1 receiver status and earn a fat new paycheck .
8 .
New England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's offensive supporting cast in 2019 , one Harry joined midway through his rookie season , was largely – and deservedly – derided .
The suite of skill players who will attempt to prop up Brady 's successor , Jarrett Stidham ( or Brian Hoyer ) , has n't changed much with Harry – he caught just 12 balls in seven games last year – likely to start next to Julian Edelman .
He 'll have to make a lot more plays if the Patriots are to win the AFC East for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Redskins QB Dwayne Haskins : It 's rare to see a first-rounder on the hot seat coming off a rookie year that featured just seven starts .
But fairly or not , Haskins finds himself under a microscope amid regime change – especially now that new coach Ron Rivera has imported QB Kyle Allen , 24 , from Carolina while admitting he 's open to the idea of potentially adding fellow former Panther and 2015 league MVP Cam Newton .
10 .
Indianapolis Colts FS Malik Hooker : Worrisome development when a draft-and-develop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But it 's understandable in Hooker 's case given he 's missed 14 games in three seasons and has only picked off seven passes despite being touted as a turnover-producing center fielder coming out of Ohio State .
The arrival of third-rounder Julian Blackmon only intensifies internal competition on the back line .
11 .
Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE O.J .
Howard : The first tight end selected in the 2017 draft ( 19th overall ) , Howard has n't produced in a manner befitting his copious talent – failing to crack even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seasons .
Sure , he 's played with a quarterback , Jameis Winston , who frequently struggled and , last year , was stuck in a Bruce Arians offense that historically does n't feature tight ends .
Now it 's good news , bad news as Howard prepares to team with Mr .
GOAT Brady ... but will also have to split snaps with Rob Gronkowski and holdover Cameron Brate .
12 .
Atlanta Falcons TE Hayden Hurst : He 's currently the answer to a pretty good trivia question : `` Lamar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first-round pick in 2018 , but who was the first ? ''
Yep .
Another of Hurst 's draftmates , Mark Andrews , proved a far more effective tight end in Baltimore 's offense , quickly making the 25th overall pick from two years ago expendable .
Hurst has totaled 43 grabs for 512 yards and three touchdowns and hardly distinguished himself as a blocker .
And yet he could be far more dangerous in Atlanta , which traded for him after losing Austin Hooper in free agency , and QB Matt Ryan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new teammate .
13 .
Cleveland Browns QB Baker Mayfield : An especially promising rookie campaign was followed by an especially disappointing sophomore season .
Mayfield is currently eschewing commercials and the limelight as he hopes to rebound under new coach Kevin Stefanski .
However the No .
1 pick of the 2018 draft must be aware that any early season stumble could open the door to well-compensated backup Case Keenum , who thrived in this system with Stefanski 's assistance in Minnesota .
14 .
Las Vegas Raiders LT Kolton Miller : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ side in 2019 than he was on the right as a rookie in 2018 – though that still qualifies as a markedly backhanded compliment .
Miller allowed seven sacks last year after surrendering 16 the previous season and , at 6-8 and 325 pounds , will likely always be susceptible to edge rushers able to bend low and under him .
That might not be as much an issue if Miller 's run blocking was better .
Lot to work on here .
15 .
Browns TE David Njoku : His fifth-year option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it 's only guaranteed for injury .
Njoku caught 56 balls for 639 yards in 2018 , his second season , but a broken wrist limited him to four appearances last year .
Since then , Cleveland signed Hooper to a four-year , $ 42 million deal before picking promising Harrison Bryant in the draft .
Barring a breakout , Njoku may be a luxury this team does n't need in 2021 .
16 .
Cincinnati Bengals WR John Ross : Though he was drafted ninth overall in 2017 , it 's pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scouting combine record 4.22 40-yard dash .
Ross ' big-play ability remains , but he 's only played in half of Cincinnati 's 48 games since entering the league .
And the arrival of second-round WR Tee Higgins means Ross , whose option for 2021 was punted , probably projects no better than the Bengals ' No .
4 receiver in 2020 .
17 .
San Francisco 49ers DL Solomon Thomas : He 's invariably mentioned as part of a vaunted D-line that featured five first-round picks during a 2019 run to Super @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thomas , the No .
3 pick in 2017 , has been less than impactful during his career and started just three times last season .
Fresh off drafting DT Javon Kinlaw 14th overall in April , the Niners did n't pick up Thomas ' option .
The Stanford product will need a monster effort – and there may be an opportunity following the trade of DeForest Buckner – if he wants to remain in the Bay Area beyond 2020 .
18 .
Chicago Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky : So after he regressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ option and brought in veteran Nick Foles to compete for the starting job ... though team brass continues to indicate Trubisky will take the initial first-team snaps once training camp begins .
Still , at minimum , the writing 's on the wall in pencil for the No .
2 pick in 2017 , one who likely needs to reclaim his 2018 Pro Bowl form at minimum – and with limited weapons at his disposal – in order to remain in the Windy City in 2021 and beyond .
19 .
Bengals LT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11th pick of the 2019 draft his rookie season .
There was some debate following Williams ' career at Alabama as to whether he was better suited to be a guard in the NFL , but he 'll likely make his pro debut as No .
1 pick Joe Burrow 's blind side sentinel while effectively attempting to anchor what was arguably the league 's worst line a year ago .
20 .
New York Giants DL Leonard Williams : Selected sixth overall by the Jets in 2015 , he made the Pro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be a cornerstone player .
However he was dealt across town midway through last season , yet did n't sign an extension with the Giants , who wound up tagging Williams in March .
Always more effective against the run than as a pass rusher ( 17½ career sacks ) , Williams ' market could be tricky – whether he opts to stay with the Giants or tests free agency next year – and he 'll likely need to apply a lot more pocket pressure to even approach Buckner or even Trey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football , we have the perfect spot for you .
Join our Facebook Group , The Ruling Off the Field , to engage in friendly debate and conversation with fellow football fans and our NFL insiders .
Do the right thing , sign up now !

20 recent NFL first-round picks who could be on the hot seat in 2020
Show Caption Hide Caption NFLPA not happy with Tom Brady's unsolicited practices: 'Not in the best interest of player safety' SportsPulse: Mackenzie Salmon connected with NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith to get the union's response on Tom Brady and Russell Wilson's impromptu practices with teammates. An act they strongly discouraged prior to Training Camp. USA TODAY
The NFL's proverbial hot seat is predominantly reserved for head coaches – and, occasionally, lit under starting quarterbacks precariously positioned ahead of a capable or enticing backup.
But it doesn't take long for recent first-round draftees to feel the heat, either – even quarterbacks who are top-10 picks, as evidenced by the Arizona Cardinals' divorce from Josh Rosen after just one season.
There will be obvious pressure this season on several players picked in Round 1 of the 2017 draft given 13 of them – including four of the top five selections – recently had their fifth-year contract options declined. Others, including a couple from the 2015 draft, have exhausted their rookie deals but still seek long-term commitments from their original clubs. There are even a few players taken in 2019 who might already find themselves subjected to relatively intense scrutiny.
Here are 20 recent first-rounders listed alphabetically – none have landed a second multi-year contract – to keep an eye on in 2020:
1. Denver Broncos LT Garett Bolles: The 20th overall pick in 2017, he's never missed a start and played better toward the end of 2019 after rookie QB Drew Lock galvanized the club. Still, mistakes have been a thematic issue – Bolles has 45 penalties in three seasons – and have been bemoaned by GM John Elway, who chose not to pick up the fifth-year option of Lock's blind-side bodyguard even though Bolles allowed just four sacks last year. But if he cleans up the mental aspects of his game for a team that could be sneaky dangerous, Bolles might give Elway a dilemma next offseason.
2. New Orleans Saints DE Marcus Davenport: Think back to the 2018 draft, when the Saints traded two first-round picks to select Davenport 14th overall out of Texas-San Antonio, ostensibly as one of the final pieces to a championship equation. To date, the gamble hasn't paid off, Davenport collecting 10½ sacks and 28 quarterback hits in two seasons while failing to make an impact in the playoffs. A pass rusher who benefits from playing alongside Cam Jordan really needs to ante up soon.
3. Tennessee Titans WR Corey Davis: A top-five pick in 2017, he's failed to develop into a No. 1-caliber receiver and was surpassed by rookie A.J. Brown last year. Davis, whose 2021 option was declined, still has a year to justify his No. 5 overall selection status and might benefit from rare offensive continuity in Tennessee ... assuming QB Ryan Tannehill picks up where he left off in 2019.
4. Philadelphia Eagles LT Andre Dillard: His 2019 rookie season wasn't a true redshirt situation given Dillard started four times and served as a swing tackle, though he struggled during that limited playing time. But the Eagles have yet to re-sign likely Hall of Famer Jason Peters, apparently comfortable Dillard can safeguard oft-injured QB Carson Wentz. Quite a gamble given Dillard hasn't had a traditional offseason to bolster his readiness for the role.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers OLB Bud Dupree: The 22nd pick in 2015, he concluded his rookie contract last season by turning in a career-high 11½ sacks, nearly double his previous personal best. The Steelers placed the franchise tag on Dupree, so he stands to make $15.8 million this year barring receipt of a long-term extension. However Pittsburgh also drafted OLB Alex Highsmith – he had 15 sacks for Charlotte last year – in the third round, and his development could directly affect Dupree if an extension isn't reached.
6. Jacksonville Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette: The No. 4 pick three years ago, he's been productive, churning out a career-best 1,152 rushing yards and 76 catches in 2019. He's also been an occasional malcontent whom the Jags attempted to trade prior to the draft before declining his option for 2021. The best-case scenario for Fournette might be getting off to a hot start and then being dealt before the deadline into a situation that better suits him personally and professionally – a scenario that worked out nicely for former teammate Dante Fowler. Regardless, Fournette will need to keep focus on his performance, not off-field issues, in order to land the type of second contract his talents merit.
7. Houston Texans WR Will Fuller: He's entering the final year of his rookie contract and needs to perform like a guy about to earn more than $10 million. When Fuller's on the field, his deep-threat ability has a noticeable impact on this offense – and he's now the veteran wideout here with DeAndre Hopkins packed off to Arizona. Fuller will have help from recent acquisitions Randall Cobb and Brandin Cooks as it pertains to replacing Hopkins' production, but must stay healthy – he's missed 22 games in four seasons – if he's going to graduate to No. 1 receiver status and earn a fat new paycheck.
8. New England Patriots WR N'Keal Harry: Tom Brady's offensive supporting cast in 2019, one Harry joined midway through his rookie season, was largely – and deservedly – derided. The suite of skill players who will attempt to prop up Brady's successor, presumably Cam Newton or Jarrett Stidham, hasn't changed much with Harry – he caught just 12 balls in seven games last year – likely to start next to Julian Edelman. He'll have to make a lot more plays if the Patriots are to win the AFC East for a 12th consecutive season.
9. Washington Redskins QB Dwayne Haskins: It's rare to see a first-rounder on the hot seat coming off a rookie year that featured just seven starts. But fairly or not, Haskins finds himself under a microscope amid regime change – especially now that new coach Ron Rivera has imported QB Kyle Allen, 24, from Carolina.
10. Indianapolis Colts FS Malik Hooker: Worrisome development when a draft-and-develop team turns down your fifth-year option. But it's understandable in Hooker's case given he's missed 14 games in three seasons and has only picked off seven passes despite being touted as a turnover-producing center fielder coming out of Ohio State. The arrival of third-rounder Julian Blackmon only intensifies internal competition on the back line.
11. Tampa Bay Buccaneers TE O.J. Howard: The first tight end selected in the 2017 draft (19th overall), Howard hasn't produced in a manner befitting his copious talent – failing to crack even 35 catches in any of his three seasons. Sure, he's played with a quarterback, Jameis Winston, who frequently struggled and, last year, was stuck in a Bruce Arians offense that historically doesn't feature tight ends. Now it's good news, bad news as Howard prepares to team with Mr. GOAT Brady ... but will also have to split snaps with Rob Gronkowski and holdover Cameron Brate.
12. Atlanta Falcons TE Hayden Hurst: He's currently the answer to a pretty good trivia question: "Lamar Jackson was the Baltimore Ravens' second first-round pick in 2018, but who was the first?" Yep. Another of Hurst's draftmates, Mark Andrews, proved a far more effective tight end in Baltimore's offense, quickly making the 25th overall pick from two years ago expendable. Hurst has totaled 43 grabs for 512 yards and three touchdowns in his brief career and hardly distinguished himself as a blocker. And yet he could be far more dangerous in Atlanta, which traded for him after losing Austin Hooper in free agency, and QB Matt Ryan is already predicting big things for his new teammate.
13. Cleveland Browns QB Baker Mayfield: An especially promising rookie campaign was followed by an especially disappointing sophomore season. Mayfield is currently eschewing commercials and the limelight as he hopes to rebound under new coach Kevin Stefanski. However the No. 1 pick of the 2018 draft must be aware that any early season stumble could open the door to well-compensated backup Case Keenum, who thrived in this system with Stefanski's assistance while in Minnesota.
14. Las Vegas Raiders LT Kolton Miller: He was much better on the left side in 2019 than he was on the right as a rookie in 2018 – though that still qualifies as a markedly backhanded compliment. Miller allowed seven sacks last year after surrendering 16 the previous season and, at 6-8 and 325 pounds, will likely always be susceptible to edge rushers able to bend low and underneath him. That might not be as much an issue if Miller's run blocking was better. Lot to work on here.
15. Browns TE David Njoku: His fifth-year option was activated, but – remember – it's only guaranteed for injury. Njoku caught 56 balls for 639 yards in 2018, his second season, but a broken wrist limited him to four appearances last year. Since then, Cleveland signed Hooper to a four-year, $42 million deal before picking promising Harrison Bryant in the draft. Barring a breakout, Njoku may be a luxury this team doesn't need in 2021.
16. Cincinnati Bengals WR John Ross: Though he was drafted ninth overall in 2017, it's pretty much been downhill since he blazed that scouting combine record 4.22 40-yard dash. Ross' big-play ability remains, but he's only played in half of Cincinnati's 48 games since entering the league. And the arrival of second-round WR Tee Higgins means Ross, whose option for 2021 was punted, probably projects no better than the Bengals' No. 4 receiver in 2020.
17. San Francisco 49ers DL Solomon Thomas: He's invariably mentioned as part of a vaunted D-line that featured five first-round picks during a 2019 run to Super Bowl LIV. But truth is, Thomas, the No. 3 pick in 2017, has been less than impactful during his career and started just three times last season. Fresh off drafting DT Javon Kinlaw 14th overall in April, the Niners didn't pick up Thomas' option. The Stanford product will need a monster effort – and there may be an opportunity following the trade of DeForest Buckner – if he wants to remain in the Bay Area beyond 2020.
18. Chicago Bears QB Mitchell Trubisky: So after he regressed in 2019, Chicago declined his fifth-year option and brought in veteran Nick Foles to compete for the starting job ... though team brass continues to indicate Trubisky will take the initial first-team snaps once training camp begins. Still, the writing's on the wall in pencil for the No. 2 pick in 2017, one who likely needs to reclaim his 2018 Pro Bowl form at minimum – and with limited weapons at his disposal – in order to remain in the Windy City in 2021 and beyond.
19. Bengals LT Jonah Williams: Shoulder surgery cost the 11th pick of the 2019 draft his entire rookie season. There was some debate following Williams' career at Alabama as to whether he was better suited to be a guard in the NFL, but he'll likely make his pro debut as 2020 No. 1 pick Joe Burrow's blind side sentinel while effectively attempting to anchor what was arguably the league's worst line a year ago.
20. New York Giants DL Leonard Williams: Selected sixth overall by the Jets in 2015, he made the Pro Bowl in his second season and appeared to be a cornerstone player. However he was dealt across town midway through last season, yet didn't sign an extension with the Giants, who wound up tagging Williams in March. Always more effective against the run than as a pass rusher (17½ career sacks), Williams' market could be tricky – whether he opts to stay with the Giants or tests free agency next year – and he'll likely need to apply a lot more pocket pressure to approach Buckner or even Trey Flowers money whenever he returns to the negotiating table.
***
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usatoday--2020-06-26--Young Americans less likely to social distance as coronavirus cases continue to rise, survey says

WASHINGTON – As the number of new coronavirus cases in the United States continues to rise , nearly half of young Americans say they ’ ve hung out with people outside of their household without social distancing , according to a new survey .
Among Americans ages 18 to 29 , 45 % said in the past week they have socialized with people they do not live with while not maintaining social distancing , according to a new survey from the Democracy Fund + UCLA Nationscape Project .
That is the highest rate among all age groups , with those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 42 % That is almost two times the rate of other age groups .
Among Americans ages 45 to 64 , 28 % reported socializing without social distancing .
Americans over 65 were the least likely ( 21 % ) to have hung out with people they do n't live with while not social distancing .
The United States on Wednesday saw its highest number of new coronavirus cases recorded in months .
Since May , the majority of states across the country have begun loosening social distancing restrictions that were in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Several of the nation ’ s most populous states , including California , Texas and Florida , have reported record-setting highs in daily new cases .
Nationscape Insights : Where do Americans stand on the issues ?
Let them tell you .
When broken down by party lines , young Republicans were the most likely group to say they had hung out with people they did n't live with while not practicing social distancing , according to analysis from Nationscape Insights , a project of Democracy Fund , UCLA and USA TODAY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Project is a massive study of the American electorate designed to conduct 500,000 interviews about policies and the presidential candidates during the 2020 election cycle .
The survey was conducted June 11-17 , with 6,914 people surveyed .
There is a margin of error of plus or minus 2.1 percentage points .
More than half of Republicans ages 18 to 29 ( 55 % ) and 30 to 44 ( 56 % ) said they did not practice social distancing when hanging out with people they do not live with .
That topped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democrats , those numbers were 40 % for those ages 18 to 29 and 34 % for those ages 30 to 44 .
“ We 're kind of in this naughty situation where these folks are probably engaging in this stuff because it is less dangerous to them personally , but that has significant downstream effects , ” said Robert Griffin , research director for the Democracy Fund Voter Study Group .
“ They are now some of the people who are most likely to be causing this to happen , and ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these states.
” More : Majority of Americans still concerned over coronavirus as country continues to reopen , survey shows In Texas , Gov .
Greg Abbott blamed young people for the latest rise in coronavirus cases .
Florida Gov .
Ron DeSantis this week also noted “ a real explosion in new cases amongst our younger demographics.
” A majority of Americans , however , did say they are social distancing when meeting with people they do not live with .
Sixty-four percent of Americans say they have , compared to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Griffin noted that for some Americans , “ how people are thinking about managing risk and deciding on what they 're doing is obviously a function of multiple things that are happening , ” such as political affiliation or age .
When it comes to masks , use among all demographics remains high .
More than 8 in 10 Americans ( 85 % ) said they have continued to wear a mask in the past week , with people over the age of 65 reporting the highest usage of all age groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down by party , Democrats ( 92 % ) are more likely to have worn a mask in the last week than Republicans ( 80 % ) , though they both had strong majorities .

Young Americans less likely to social distance as coronavirus cases continue to rise, survey says
Show Caption Hide Caption Dr. Fauci: society's responsibility in conquering COVID-19 Dr. Anthony Fauci speaks to how personal responsibility and social distancing is the key to ending the spread of the coronavirus. USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – As the number of new coronavirus cases in the United States continues to rise, nearly half of young Americans say they’ve hung out with people outside of their household without social distancing, according to a new survey.
Among Americans ages 18 to 29, 45% said in the past week they have socialized with people they do not live with while not maintaining social distancing, according to a new survey from the Democracy Fund + UCLA Nationscape Project. That is the highest rate among all age groups, with those ages 30 to 44 trailing just slightly at 42%
That is almost two times the rate of other age groups. Among Americans ages 45 to 64, 28% reported socializing without social distancing. Americans over 65 were the least likely (21%) to have hung out with people they don't live with while not social distancing.
The United States on Wednesday saw its highest number of new coronavirus cases recorded in months. Since May, the majority of states across the country have begun loosening social distancing restrictions that were in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Several of the nation’s most populous states, including California, Texas and Florida, have reported record-setting highs in daily new cases.
More: Younger people are a factor in surge of COVID-19 cases, analysis shows
Nationscape Insights: Where do Americans stand on the issues? Let them tell you.
When broken down by party lines, young Republicans were the most likely group to say they had hung out with people they didn't live with while not practicing social distancing, according to analysis from Nationscape Insights, a project of Democracy Fund, UCLA and USA TODAY.
Unemployment: Teens struggle to land summer jobs during COVID-19 This is a summer interrupted for many teenagers, with businesses where they'd typically find work shut down to slow the spread of the coronavirus. USA TODAY
The Democracy Fund + UCLA Nationscape Project is a massive study of the American electorate designed to conduct 500,000 interviews about policies and the presidential candidates during the 2020 election cycle. The survey was conducted June 11-17, with 6,914 people surveyed. There is a margin of error of plus or minus 2.1 percentage points.
More than half of Republicans ages 18 to 29 (55%) and 30 to 44 (56%) said they did not practice social distancing when hanging out with people they do not live with. That topped young Democrats by double digits. Among Democrats, those numbers were 40% for those ages 18 to 29 and 34% for those ages 30 to 44.
“We're kind of in this knotty situation where these folks are probably engaging in this stuff because it is less dangerous to them personally, but that has significant downstream effects,” said Robert Griffin, research director for the Democracy Fund Voter Study Group. “They are now some of the people who are most likely to be causing this to happen, and (it) to grow worse in some of these states.”
More: Majority of Americans still concerned over coronavirus as country continues to reopen, survey shows
National Institutes of Health director warns against COVID complacency Dr. Francis Collins, the director of the National Institutes of Health, urges Americans to not get complacent about COVID, continue social distancing. USA TODAY
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott blamed young people for the latest rise in coronavirus cases. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis this week also noted “a real explosion in new cases amongst our younger demographics.”
A majority of Americans, however, did say they are social distancing when meeting with people they do not live with. Sixty-four percent of Americans say they have, compared to 36% that said they have not.
Coronavirus Death Rate In US 50 Times Higher Than Flu Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images Although the flu and coronavirus have some overlapping symptoms, the coronavirus' death rate in the US is far higher. On average in the US, the flu's death rate is .1%, while the coronavirus' death rate is 4.9%. Both viruses are most deadly for the elderly. The flu kills .83% of infected people above age 65, whereas the the coronavirus's death rate is 10.7% for infected people from age 65 to 74, 21.2% for the 75-84 group, and 30.2% for people over 85. Wochit
Griffin noted that for some Americans, “how people are thinking about managing risk and deciding on what they're doing is obviously a function of multiple things that are happening,” such as political affiliation or age.
When it comes to masks, use among all demographics remains high.
More than 8 in 10 Americans (85%) said they have continued to wear a mask in the past week, with people over the age of 65 reporting the highest usage of all age groups (89%). When broken down by party, Democrats (92%) are more likely to have worn a mask in the last week than Republicans (80%), though they both had strong majorities.
This article has been updated to clarify a quotation.
Contributing: Grace Hauck and Khrysgiana Pineda, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-06-26--This huge Wayfair 4th of July sale will save you tons on furniture, appliances and more

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
The 4th of July is not just for fireworks and barbecues—it 's also pretty renowned for all the amazing sales that tend to happen .
This year , the festivities got kicked off a little early at Wayfair : From now through July 5 , you can get up to 70 % off on mattresses , outdoor furniture , appliances and so , so much more .
Need help finding products ?
Sign up for our weekly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can unsubscribe at any time .
There ’ s a lot of discounts going on in this massive holiday sale , so to help you sift through the best products you can grab at the very best prices , we 've done the hard work for you , compiling a list of 11 of the most popular deals you can snag .
Keep reading to shop our top picks .
If you ’ re in the market for a new mattress , the 4th of July is one of the best times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holiday sale , you can save on top-rated options from Sealy and Beautyrest , along with Wayfair ’ s own brand , starting at $ 159.99 .
You can grab the retailer ’ s Sleep 10-inch medium memory-foam mattress , for instance , for $ 159.99 .
That 's $ 140 off its original price of $ 299.99 ( I actually just ordered one for my new apartment ! )
.
This medium-support mattress has a breathable construction and is compatible with adjustable bed bases , too .
It has more than 32,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4.7-star rating speaks for itself .
Better yet , you 'll get 100 nights to test it out , so if you 're not fully satisfied , there 's relatively no risk , as you can exchange it or return it for a full refund .
Get the Wayfair Sleep 10-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress for $ 159.99 ( Save $ 140 ) It ’ s finally summertime , which means that I ’ ll be spending as much time outside as humanly possible .
You can do the same when you complete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which boasts discounts of up to 60 % .
This five-piece Geyer dining set is on sale for $ 319.99 , more than half off its typical retail price of $ 840.05 .
Its included solid wood folding table and chairs ship completely assembled , plus , the table features a slatted construction and wheels for easy movement around the patio .
Get the Geyer 5-Piece Dining Set for $ 319.99 ( Save $ 520.06 ) Living room seating is also on sale , and you can snag couches , accent chairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 74.99 .
The über-popular Garren 75.6-inch square arm sofa is discounted down to $ 299.99—a 25 % markdown from its usual $ 399.99 .
This heather gray couch can seat three , and the cushions are removable for easy cleaning and spot treatment .
With a 4.4-star rating from more than 2,600 Wayfair shoppers , this piece is a must-have for medium-sized living rooms .
If you ’ re on the hunt for a chair to add to your space , check out this Eytel armchair , $ 195.99 , in tan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3,000 reviewers can attest to its top-quality construction , which consists of wooden legs and a polyester-blend upholstery .
• Get the Garren 75.6 ” Square Arm Sofa in Gray for $ 299.99 ( Save $ 100 ) • Get the Eytel Armchair for $ 195.99 ( Save $ 244 ) Looking for an easy way to entertain the kiddos this summer ?
Search no further , because Wayfair ’ s 4th of July sale also extends to outdoor play pieces , which are priced at up to 55 % off .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cottage , normally $ 262.05 , for $ 214.99 .
With nearly 900 reviews and a 4.7-star rating , this playhouse is perfect for kids aged six to 12 months .
It ’ s exterior is weather-resistant , and its 45-inch height is enough to comfortably fit two kiddos .
Also on sale is the Step2 Panda climber , which you can grab for $ 124.99 .
Designed for indoor or outdoor use , this toddler-friendly design features a crawl-through tunnel and a slide with chunky sides for little ones to grip onto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tidy Cottage for $ 214.99 ( Save $ 47.06 ) • Get the Step2 Panda Climber for $ 124.99 ( Save $ 13 ) If you ’ re still working from home , your office space might be in need of a little facelift .
Lucky for you , you can shop for office furniture from as low as $ 99 right now at Wayfair , including desks , chairs , bookcases and more .
For instance , the Brynn Desk , available in black or weathered oak , is down to $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ markdown from its usual $ 159 .
While at-home assembly is required , more than 1,900 4.3-star ratings from Wayfair shoppers note that it ’ s completely doable .
At just under 44 inches wide , it ’ s not too large , so it will comfortably fit in smaller rooms without taking up too much space .
Filing cabinets , like this Hogge Office Designs three-drawer vertical filing cabinet , are also on sale—you can pick this one up for $ 92.99 here ( it 's also available for a few dollars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shop there ) .
The locking drawers are ideal for storing important personal documents , while the full , high-side compartments provide ample space for other essentials .
• Get the Brynn Desk for $ 101.99 ( Save $ 57.01 ) • Get the Hogge Office Designs 3-Drawer Vertical Filing Cabinet for $ 92.99 ( Save $ 91.49 ) Working on your lawn and garden is a pastime that requires the proper supplies , and Wayfair provides them better than almost anyone : Décor , planters and more are all on sale from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Elick raised garden , which is a must-have for those with notoriously green thumbs .
Normally retailing for $ 149 , this rust-resistant planter is discounted down to $ 132.99 .
In their reviews , shoppers explained that it ’ s super easy to assemble , noting that the heightened planting bed is an excellent home for herbs and flowers .
If your garden is on the smaller side , then these Growers style flower pot holders , $ 13.99 each , are a necessity .
They come with hanging hooks at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and shoppers say that they easily attach onto window sills , railings and balconies .
• Get the Elick Raised Garden for $ 132.99 ( Save $ 16.01 ) • Get the Growers Style Flower Pot Holders for $ 13.99 Wayfair ’ s incredible holiday sales event also encompasses appliances .
From air conditioners to refrigerators , you can save up to 55 % on these major gadgets for the home , including the Black + Decker 21.5-inch countertop dishwasher .
Normally $ 449.99 , this appliance is down to $ 311.99 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in total .
Designed to make up for cramped kitchens that don ’ t have room for full-size dishwashers , this compact option includes seven wash programs , a delayed start-up ( up to 24 hours ) , an LED display and stainless-steel hardware .
A 4.6-star rating from Wayfair customers verifies its quick installation , with one buyer commenting that the water hook-ups and drain connections are included and easy to set up .
Get the Black + Decker 21.5 ” Countertop Dishwasher for $ 311.99 ( Save $ 138 ) The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .

This huge Wayfair 4th of July sale will save you tons on furniture, appliances and more
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
The Fourth of July is not just for fireworks and barbecues—it's also pretty renowned for all the amazing sales that tend to happen. This year, the festivities got kicked off a little early at Wayfair: From now through July 5, you can get up to 70% off on mattresses, outdoor furniture, appliances and so, so much more.
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
There’s a lot of discounts going on in this massive holiday sale, so to help you sift through the best products you can grab at the very best prices, we've done the hard work for you, compiling a list of 11 of the most popular deals you can snag. Keep reading to shop our top picks.
If you’re in the market for a new mattress, the Fourth of July is one of the best times to purchase one. Thanks to this holiday sale, you can save on top-rated options from Sealy and Beautyrest, along with Wayfair’s own brand, starting at $159.99. You can grab the retailer’s Sleep 10-inch medium memory-foam mattress, for instance, for $159.99. That's $140 off its original price of $299.99 (I actually just ordered one for my new apartment!). This medium-support mattress has a breathable construction and is compatible with adjustable bed bases, too. It has more than 32,000 reviews from Wayfair customers, and its 4.7-star rating speaks for itself. Better yet, you'll get 100 nights to test it out, so if you're not fully satisfied, there's relatively no risk, as you can exchange it or return it for a full refund.
Get the Wayfair Sleep 10-Inch Medium Memory Foam Mattress for $159.99 (Save $140)
It’s finally summertime, which means that I’ll be spending as much time outside as humanly possible. You can do the same when you complete your outdoor set-up with this Wayfair sale, which boasts discounts of up to 60%. This five-piece Geyer dining set is on sale for $319.99, more than half off its typical retail price of $840.05. Its included solid wood folding table and chairs ship completely assembled, plus, the table features a slatted construction and wheels for easy movement around the patio.
Get the Geyer 5-Piece Dining Set for $319.99 (Save $520.06)
Living room seating is also on sale, and you can snag couches, accent chairs and ottomans from as low as $74.99. The über-popular Garren 52.4-inch square arm loveseat is discounted down to $259.99—a 19% markdown from its usual $319.99. This heather gray couch can seat two, and two toss pillows are included. With a 4.6-star rating from more than 1,300 Wayfair shoppers, this piece is a must-have for medium-sized living rooms. If you’re on the hunt for a chair to add to your space, check out this Eytel armchair, $195.99, in tan, gray, blue or red. Nearly 3,000 reviewers can attest to its top-quality construction, which consists of wooden legs and a polyester-blend upholstery.
Looking for an easy way to entertain the kiddos this summer? Search no further, because Wayfair’s Fourth of July sale also extends to outdoor play pieces, which are priced at up to 55% off. You can nab this Step2 Neat & Tidy cottage, normally $262.05, for $214.99. With nearly 900 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this playhouse is perfect for kids aged six to 12 months. It’s exterior is weather-resistant, and its 45-inch height is enough to comfortably fit two kiddos. Also on sale is the Step2 Panda climber, which you can grab for $124.99. Designed for indoor or outdoor use, this toddler-friendly design features a crawl-through tunnel and a slide with chunky sides for little ones to grip onto.
If you’re still working from home, your office space might be in need of a little facelift. Lucky for you, you can shop for office furniture from as low as $99 right now at Wayfair, including desks, chairs, bookcases and more. For instance, the Brynn Desk, available in black or weathered oak, is down to $101.99, giving you a 30% markdown from its usual $159. While at-home assembly is required, more than 1,900 4.3-star ratings from Wayfair shoppers note that it’s completely doable. At just under 44 inches wide, it’s not too large, so it will comfortably fit in smaller rooms without taking up too much space. Filing cabinets, like this Hogge Office Designs three-drawer vertical filing cabinet, are also on sale—you can pick this one up for $92.99 here (it's also available for a few dollars less at Overstock if you prefer to shop there). The locking drawers are ideal for storing important personal documents, while the full, high-side compartments provide ample space for other essentials.
Working on your lawn and garden is a pastime that requires the proper supplies, and Wayfair provides them better than almost anyone: Décor, planters and more are all on sale from $19.99 here. Take this highly-rated Elick raised garden, which is a must-have for those with notoriously green thumbs. Normally retailing for $149, this rust-resistant planter is discounted down to $132.99. In their reviews, shoppers explained that it’s super easy to assemble, noting that the heightened planting bed is an excellent home for herbs and flowers. If your garden is on the smaller side, then these Growers style flower pot holders, $13.99 each, are a necessity. They come with hanging hooks at the back for showcasing gorgeous plants and flowers, and shoppers say that they easily attach onto window sills, railings and balconies.
Wayfair’s incredible holiday sales event also encompasses appliances. From air conditioners to refrigerators, you can save up to 55% on these major gadgets for the home, including the Black + Decker 21.5-inch countertop dishwasher. Normally $449.99, this appliance is down to $311.99, falling by an impressive $138 in total. Designed to make up for cramped kitchens that don’t have room for full-size dishwashers, this compact option includes seven wash programs, a delayed start-up (up to 24 hours), an LED display and stainless-steel hardware. A 4.6-star rating from Wayfair customers verifies its quick installation, with one buyer commenting that the water hook-ups and drain connections are included and easy to set up.
Get the Black + Decker 21.5” Countertop Dishwasher for $311.99 (Save $138)
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.