usatoday--2020-12-25--What watchdogs? Trump leaves office with key IG jobs vacant across govt

As President-elect Joe Biden continues to weigh critical Cabinet appointments , the new administration will be confronting widespread vacancies in watchdog offices across the government .
At least a dozen of the 38 presidentially appointed inspectors general will not be in place at the end of the Trump administration .
Allison Lerner , the incoming chairperson of the inspectors general council , said filling the jobs in some of the most crucial federal agencies , from the departments of Defense and Health and Human Services to the CIA , will require “ a heavy lift.
” '' There is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Paul Light , a professor of public service at New York University .
`` They are the coin of the realm when it comes to government oversight . ''
The vacancies follow one of the most contentious periods for inspectors general , several of whom were targeted for removal by President Donald Trump .
Among the Trump administration ousters was Inspector General of the Intelligence Community Michael Atkinson , who handled a whistleblower 's complaint about Trump 's dealings with Ukraine that triggered the president 's impeachment .
Atkinson 's firing was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Linick at the State Department , and Glenn Fine , the acting inspector general at the Pentagon .
Linick , a former federal prosecutor , had investigated allegations of political retaliation by allies of the president against career diplomats who been labeled as `` disloyal . ''
The dismissals , some of them coming during late Friday notices issued by the administration , were slammed by Democratic leaders .
“ The President ’ s late-night , weekend firing of the State Department Inspector General has accelerated his dangerous pattern of retaliation against the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on behalf of the American people , '' House Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif , said in a statement at the time .
`` Inspector General Linick was punished for honorably performing his duty to protect the Constitution and our national security . ''
Following the dismissals , a bipartisan group of lawmakers , led by Sen. Charles Grassley , R-Iowa , proposed legislation to bolster watchdog independence .
The bill , which in part would require a more substantive rationale for removal , did not advance during the congressional session .
'Lapdog @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's new inspector general under fire for conflicts of interest , inexperience Lerner , the inspector general at the National Science Foundation , said the council has been in contact with the incoming Biden administration to address their needs , including the leadership gaps .
`` Something has to be done to move nominations more efficiently , '' she said .
The needs have become more urgent in the midst of a deadly pandemic .
Agencies directly involved in the health response ( the Department of Health and Human Services ) and recovery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without permanent watchdog leadership .
Earlier this year , a Pandemic Response Accountability Committee and special inspector general were among the oversight entities established to track the massive virus recovery effort , which includes the $ 2 trillion stimulus package approved in March and the $ 900 billion relief strategy that awaits Trump 's signature .
That effort , however , got off to a bumpy start when Trump removed Fine as the acting inspector general at Defense .
The move also effectively stripped Fine of his post as chairman of the Pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fine had been selected by fellow inspectors general to chair the panel charged with overseeing the initial $ 2 trillion stimulus deal meant to mitigate the economic damage caused by the pandemic .
The PRAC and its 21 affiliated inspectors general have since accelerated oversight on the flood of aid released by the government .
The panel — led by Michael Horowitz , inspector general at the Justice Department , and Paul Martin , the inspector general at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration — reported that there are at least 141 reviews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the work .
`` We 're going to keep doing the oversight , doing the work we have to do , '' Horowitz said .
`` We are not going to be dissuaded from that mission . ''
IG REPORT : FBI wiretap of Carter Page riddled with errors but Russia probe justified Despite the adversarial actions , Lerner and Horowitz , the former chair of the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency , said the watchdog community remains undeterred .
`` We have not been shy about saying what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Horowitz , whose office produced last year 's highly critical report on the FBI 's surveillance of a former Trump campaign adviser as part of the Russia investigation , described the overall mission as akin to `` straddling a barbed wire fence . ''
`` Being an IG is a challenging job no matter the administration and no matter what party is in power , '' he said .
Horowitz and Lerner did not single out Trump for criticism , but Light said the White House has sought to harass inspectors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's presidency .
`` I 'm surprised the inspectors general offices still have electricity , '' Light said .
`` This is a president who absolutely despises oversight . ''

What watchdogs? Trump leaves office with inspector general jobs vacant across government
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump in firing intel committee watchdog over whistleblower complaint President Trump defends decision to fire Micael Atkinson, the watchdog who followed protocol and forwarded the whistleblower complaint to Congress. USA TODAY
As President-elect Joe Biden weighs critical Cabinet appointments, his new administration will confront widespread vacancies in watchdog offices across the government. At least a dozen of the 38 presidentially appointed inspectors general will not be in place at the end of the Trump administration.
Allison Lerner, the incoming chairperson of the inspectors general council, said filling the jobs in some of the most crucial federal agencies, from the Department of Defense to Health and Human Services to the CIA, will require “a heavy lift.”
"There is no substitute for Senate-confirmed inspectors general," said Paul Light, a professor of public service at New York University. "They are the coin of the realm when it comes to government oversight."
Inspectors general targeted by Trump
The vacancies follow one of the most contentious periods for inspectors general, several of whom were targeted for removal by President Donald Trump.
Among the Trump administration ousters was Inspector General of the Intelligence Community Michael Atkinson, who handled a whistleblower's complaint about Trump's dealings with Ukraine that triggered the president's impeachment.
Atkinson's firing was quickly followed by the removals of Steve Linick at the State Department, and Glenn Fine, the acting inspector general at the Pentagon. Linick, a former federal prosecutor, had investigated allegations of political retaliation by allies of the president against career diplomats labeled as "disloyal."
Democratic leaders slammed the dismissals, some of which came in late Friday notices issued by the administration.
“The President’s late-night, weekend firing of the State Department Inspector General has accelerated his dangerous pattern of retaliation against the patriotic public servants charged with conducting oversight on behalf of the American people," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, said in a statement in May. "Inspector General Linick was punished for honorably performing his duty to protect the Constitution and our national security."
After the dismissals, a bipartisan group of lawmakers, led by Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, proposed legislation that would bolster watchdog independence. The bill, which in part would require a more substantive rationale for removal, did not advance during the congressional session.
Intel ouster: Trump fires watchdog who handled Ukraine complaint
'Lapdog' or watchdog? The State Department's new inspector general under fire for conflicts of interest, inexperience
Rep. Eliot Engel: Fired inspector general was investigating 2019 Saudi Arabia arms deal
Biden without watchdogs amid massive COVID-19 response
Lerner, inspector general at the National Science Foundation, said the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency has been in contact with the incoming Biden administration to address its needs, including the leadership gaps.
"Something has to be done to move nominations more efficiently," she said.
The needs have become more urgent in the midst of a pandemic that's killed more than 333,000 people in the USA.
Agencies directly involved in the health response (the Department of Health and Human Services) and recovery effort (the Treasury Department) are without permanent watchdog leaders.
This year, a Pandemic Response Accountability Committee and special inspector general were among the oversight entities established to track the massive virus recovery effort, which includes a $2 trillion aid package approved in March and the $900 billion relief strategy that awaits Trump's signature.
That effort got off to a bumpy start when Trump removed Fine as the acting inspector general at the Defense Department. The move effectively stripped Fine of his post as chairman of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC).
Fine had been selected by the inspector general council chair to lead the panel charged with overseeing the initial $2 trillion measure meant to mitigate the economic damage caused by the pandemic.
The PRAC and its 21 affiliated inspectors general have since accelerated oversight on the flood of aid released by the government.
The panel – led by Michael Horowitz, inspector general at the Justice Department, and Paul Martin, the inspector general at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration – reported that there are at least 141 reviews underway.
The new relief package adds to the work.
"We're going to keep doing the oversight, doing the work we have to do," Horowitz said. "We are not going to be dissuaded from that mission."
IG report: FBI wiretap of Carter Page riddled with errors but Russia probe justified
'Straddling a barbed wire fence'
Despite the adversarial actions, Lerner and Horowitz, the former chair of the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, said the watchdog community remains undeterred.
"We have not been shy about saying what needs to be done," Lerner said.
Horowitz, whose office produced last year's highly critical report on the FBI's surveillance of a former Trump campaign adviser as part of the Russia investigation, described the overall mission as akin to "straddling a barbed wire fence."
"Being an IG is a challenging job no matter the administration and no matter what party is in power," he said.
Horowitz and Lerner did not single out Trump for criticism, but Light said the White House has sought to harass inspectors general and avoid necessary oversight functions throughout Trump's presidency.
"I'm surprised the inspectors general offices still have electricity," Light said. "This is a president who absolutely despises oversight."


usatoday--2020-12-25--Opinion: Sports world had all the answers, right and wrong, in 2020

It was the evening of March 11 , 2020 , a day that will forever live in the annals of American cultural history .
As the coronavirus pandemic washed upon our shores , a skeptical nation , including our president , was paralyzed by indecision and uncertainty .
But something happened that night that snapped the nation to attention .
It came as a lightning bolt , lighting up our phones and television screens : The NBA was suspending its season .
Who doesn ’ t remember where they were at the moment the alert came , announcing that one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shutting down the entire season , immediately ?
A sports league was doing what President Donald Trump and 535 members of Congress could not do .
It was awakening a nation to the overwhelming magnitude of a crisis that was going to shape every moment of our lives for the rest of the year .
“ We were bumbling along as a country until the NBA did that , ” said Richard Lapchick , director of the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport , “ and then suddenly everybody took notice of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had we shut down a month earlier.
” If the NBA , one of the world ’ s most popular and successful sports enterprises , could shut down in the blink of an eye , just how serious was this ?
We soon found out .
Over the next few days , as college and professional games disappeared before our eyes , sports stopped being an escape from reality and instead became a sobering mirror of our society .
As sports went , so went the nation .
When the country needed guidance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sports world became our North Star .
How interesting , and fitting , that the year that sports became more important than ever was the sports year with the most interruptions .
At a time of great uncertainty , the sports world had all the answers – most of them right , a few of them wrong .
GOOD SPORTS:20 sports figures who made the world a better place in 2020 WINNERS AND LOSERS FROM 2020 : The people , institutions that stood out with calendar upended The bubbles that protected NBA and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of personal responsibility and professional leadership .
But just as some members of the American public grew antsy , or barely cared about health guidelines and the safety of those around them , so too at times did sports , college sports in particular .
When one college conference after another decided to play football , riding the backs of 18-to-22-year-olds in the midst of so much medical uncertainty to make millions in TV money , sports played a leadership role in all the wrong ways during the worst days of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towns across America , many students were not allowed on campuses , but football players were .
The powers that be decided in their own self-centered way that we needed young , unpaid men to entertain us by playing football during a pandemic , no matter what .
It remains to be seen how history will judge that decision .
But there was so much more to 2020 .
Barely two months after the original March shutdowns , a wave of athlete activism the likes of which we had never seen was triggered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and women at the hands of police , originating with the killing of George Floyd on Memorial Day .
Unprecedented social consciousness followed , led by the NBA and WNBA , as well as others such as tennis star Naomi Osaka , whose masks at the U.S. Open bore the names of Black victims of racial injustice and police brutality .
“ Black Lives Matter ” became a rallying cry for a new generation of athletes , hundreds of them .
Often their sponsors followed right along .
This wave of activism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decision to boycott a playoff game on August 26 , leading to a shutdown not only of the NBA playoffs but also games in the WNBA , Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer .
“ When the Bucks didn ’ t come out that day during the playoffs , ” Lapchick said , “ there hadn ’ t been a day as important for athlete activism since the protest of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics .
What was important was that this time , they were not alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wasn ’ t a single voice , it was a unified voice.
” Tennis legend and women ’ s rights advocate Billie Jean King has been a leading voice for social change through sports for more than 50 years .
“ Many of today ’ s professional athletes found their voices in 2020 , ” she said .
“ The pandemic brought us more time to reflect and more time to look closely at something bigger than themselves .
And we took action .
We saw that with the NBA , the WNBA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues .
Individual athletes like Naomi Osaka made us see important situations in a new light .
“ For my generation , standing up and speaking out was often frowned upon and discouraged and many of us saw it as the price we had to pay for positive change .
Professional athletes have an amazing platform for change and it is gratifying to see so many of them – and the leagues they compete in – step up for something bigger than sports.
” Such an apt description of 2020 , a sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than sports .

Opinion: Sports world had all the answers, right and wrong, in 2020
Show Caption Hide Caption The changes we’ve seen in professional sports in the past year might be here to stay Sports Pulse: From no fans in the stands to programs being cut, what changes in the sports world are here to stay SportsPulse, USA TODAY
It was the evening of March 11, 2020, a day that will forever live in the annals of American cultural history. As the coronavirus pandemic washed upon our shores, a skeptical nation, including our president, was paralyzed by indecision and uncertainty.
But something happened that night that snapped the nation to attention. It came as a lightning bolt, lighting up our phones and television screens:
The NBA was suspending its season.
Who doesn’t remember where they were at the moment the alert came, announcing that one player’s positive COVID-19 test was shutting down the entire season, immediately?
A sports league was doing what President Donald Trump and 535 members of Congress could not do. It was awakening a nation to the overwhelming magnitude of a crisis that was going to shape every moment of our lives for the rest of the year.
“We were bumbling along as a country until the NBA did that,” said Richard Lapchick, director of the Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport, “and then suddenly everybody took notice of how many lives would have been saved had we shut down a month earlier.”
If the NBA, one of the world’s most popular and successful sports enterprises, could shut down in the blink of an eye, just how serious was this? We soon found out. Over the next few days, as college and professional games disappeared before our eyes, sports stopped being an escape from reality and instead became a sobering mirror of our society.
As sports went, so went the nation. When the country needed guidance and something to lean on, the sports world became our North Star. How interesting, and fitting, that the year that sports became more important than ever was the sports year with the most interruptions. At a time of great uncertainty, the sports world had all the answers – most of them right, a few of them wrong.
GOOD SPORTS: 20 sports figures who made the world a better place in 2020
WINNERS AND LOSERS FROM 2020: The people, institutions that stood out with calendar upended
The bubbles that protected NBA and WNBA players were majestic successes, feats of personal responsibility and professional leadership. But just as some members of the American public grew antsy, or barely cared about health guidelines and the safety of those around them, so too at times did sports, college sports in particular.
When one college conference after another decided to play football, riding the backs of 18-to-22-year-olds in the midst of so much medical uncertainty to make millions in TV money, sports played a leadership role in all the wrong ways during the worst days of the pandemic in November and December. In college towns across America, many students were not allowed on campuses, but football players were. The powers that be decided in their own self-centered way that we needed young, unpaid men to entertain us by playing football during a pandemic, no matter what. It remains to be seen how history will judge that decision.
But there was so much more to 2020. Barely two months after the original March shutdowns, a wave of athlete activism the likes of which we had never seen was triggered by the deaths of unarmed Black men and women at the hands of police, originating with the killing of George Floyd on Memorial Day.
Unprecedented social consciousness followed, led by the NBA and WNBA, as well as others such as tennis star Naomi Osaka, whose masks at the U.S. Open bore the names of Black victims of racial injustice and police brutality. “Black Lives Matter” became a rallying cry for a new generation of athletes, hundreds of them. Often their sponsors followed right along. This wave of activism and protest culminated in the Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to boycott a playoff game on August 26, leading to a shutdown not only of the NBA playoffs but also games in the WNBA, Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer.
“When the Bucks didn’t come out that day during the playoffs,” Lapchick said, “there hadn’t been a day as important for athlete activism since the protest of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics. What was important was that this time, they were not alone, everybody was joining them. It wasn’t a single voice, it was a unified voice.”
Tennis legend and women’s rights advocate Billie Jean King has been a leading voice for social change through sports for more than 50 years.
“Many of today’s professional athletes found their voices in 2020,” she said. “The pandemic brought us more time to reflect and more time to look closely at something bigger than themselves. And we took action. We saw that with the NBA, the WNBA and others taking a lead on equality issues. Individual athletes like Naomi Osaka made us see important situations in a new light.
“For my generation, standing up and speaking out was often frowned upon and discouraged and many of us saw it as the price we had to pay for positive change. Professional athletes have an amazing platform for change and it is gratifying to see so many of them – and the leagues they compete in – step up for something bigger than sports.”
Such an apt description of 2020, a sports year that was about so much more than sports.


usatoday--2020-12-25--Don't rest on restroom technology. The flow of innovation can give you a smarter bathroom

While many would like to flush the year 2020 down the toilet , bathroom tech is no joke .
From smart toothbrushes and self-cleaning bidets to voice-activated showers and Android-powered mirrors , you might be surprised how much innovation there is for that small room we spend a considerable amount of time in .
How much time , you ask ?
Conservatively , 30 minutes a day , according to several studies and surveys over the years ( such as here , here , and here ) , which averages out to roughly eight days a year .
Tech that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stare into may add convenience , comfort , and in some cases , smarter water consumption to help save money on your monthly utility bill .
The following is a look at what ’ s available today , ranging in price from $ 99 to $ 1,599 .
Need last-minute Christmas gift ideas ?
: These digital subscriptions and gift cards do n't need wrapping You use for voice for many tasks around the home – such as adjusting the thermostat or turning on the outside lights – so why not control your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the three main voice-activated assistants , the U by Moen Smart Shower system lets you start and stop the shower and activate personalized preferences .
For example , say , “ Alexa , turn on my shower to 103 degrees , ” or “ Hey Siri , start preset ‘ Post-Workout Shower , ’ ” or “ Ok Google , turn off the shower.
” You get the idea .
You can also use an app or an in-shower controller , or add the shower to a voice-activated routine , such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bathroom , turns on the lights , plays your favorite playlist , and starts the shower .
Prices start at $ 1,599 for the two-outlet valve and controller ; shower heads are purchased separately .
If you ’ d prefer to only upgrade your shower head , Kohler ’ s Moxie ( from $ 229 ) doubles as a high-quality Bluetooth speaker with audio by Harman Kardon .
Simply pair your phone to the IPX7-rated Moxie to begin streaming music , podcasts , audiobooks , or local radio apps .
Battery life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can remove the speaker to charge up ( dock included ) or to take it with you somewhere else , such as a bedroom , to continue listening while you get dressed .
Coming soon is support for an Alexa smart assistant , allowing you can ask to play your morning music playlist , hear the news or request how long it will take to get to work – and will give you an accurate look at the roads by taking real-time traffic into account .
Bidets are getting smarter , too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ built-in UV sterilizer to automatically cleanse the nozzle after each use .
Called the Discovery DLS Bidet Seat from Bio Bidet ( $ 899 ) , it also houses a warm air dryer , which eliminates the need for any toilet paper , offering a more comfortable ( and economical ) way to wrap up your cleaning routine .
Speaking of hands-free , the Discovery DLS ’ s occupancy sensor opens the lid when you get near , and closes when you walk away .
The seat on this low-profile bidet is also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The townew T1 Automatic Trash Can ( $ 99 ) may look like an ordinary bathroom ( or kitchen ) trash can , but it has a couple of tricks up its sleeve .
When you have filled the bag inside with trash , press and hold a button on the outside and it will use a bit of heat to seal the bag for you .
Lift it up to toss it into a garbage bin or down an apartment ’ s trash chute , and it will automatically get the next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ excess bags in the ring under the lid ) .
Each ring holds 25 bags ; refill rings are $ 25 per 3-pack ( 75 bags ) or $ 32 for a 6-pack ( 150 bags ) .
Like many other trashcans , the battery-powered townew ( available in white or teal ) also has an infrared sensor in front that detects your presence to the lid will open , handsfree .
You might not want your mirror to criticize your skin conditions , but if you believe information ( not ignorance ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 279 ) is a smart vanity mirror that can scan your face and analyze skin issues ( including dark circles , red spots , fine lines , and so on ) and give you personalized tips and product recommendations .
This mirror also lets you watch videos , such as makeup tutorials on YouTube , and copy techniques , plus the aptly named Slide features sliding panels and a foldable stand that can be rotated between portrait and landscape view .
HiMirror Slide has a built-in face light and is Alexa-powered , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ access weather , stream music , hear the news , and so on .
Another company , Hilo Mirror , is selling Android-powered smart mirrors , including the circular Hilo Light ( $ 849 ) , with 13.5-inch touchscreen , and limited-edition Hilo XL ( $ 1,499 ) , a rectangular 21.5-inch touch screen .
Both models have speakers and a microphone , and can display videos and web content , show photos and play music .
A motion-sensor turns on the mirror when you approach .
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pinpoint where you ’ re brushing and where you ’ re not , and show you the info in real-time on a companion app .
With two colors to choose from , there are five modes and three intensities to choose from – for a more personalized brush – plus you ’ re notified if you ’ re applying too much pressure .
You can set goals and even see a weekly progress report on your brushing habits .
Along with the toothbrush , in the box you also get a charging glass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel case .
An optional brush head reordering service automatically orders brush heads for you when it ’ s time ( via the app ) .
Have weight-loss goals in 2021 ?
The Withings Body+ ( $ 99 ) is a smart bathroom scale with a couple of twists .
This Withings scale , which recognizes up to eight users , can also show your BMI ( body mass index ) , a measure of body fat based on height and weight .
Body+ can also analyze and display estimated water percentage , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ info can be read on the scale ’ s bright screen ( along with your local weather forecast ) , but built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity means the info can also be immediately uploaded to the password-protected Health Mate app or website .
Follow Marc on Twitter : @ marc_saltzman .
Email him or subscribe to his Tech It Out podcast at marcsaltzman.com .

Don't rest on restroom technology. The flow of innovation can give you a smarter bathroom
Show Caption Hide Caption Bathroom technology: Smart devices can improve your home From smart mirrors and a bidet and trash can with built-in sensors, there are many ways to improve your bathroom with technology. Marc Saltzman, Special to USA TODAY
While many would like to flush the year 2020 down the toilet, bathroom tech is no joke.
From smart toothbrushes and self-cleaning bidets to voice-activated showers and Android-powered mirrors, you might be surprised how much innovation there is for that small room we spend a considerable amount of time in.
How much time, you ask? Conservatively, 30 minutes a day, according to several studies and surveys over the years (such as here, here, and here), which averages out to roughly eight days a year.
Tech that you sit on, stand under and stare into may add convenience, comfort, and in some cases, smarter water consumption to help save money on your monthly utility bill.
The following is a look at what’s available today, ranging in price from $99 to $1,599.
Need last-minute Christmas gift ideas?: These digital subscriptions and gift cards don't need wrapping
Video games: Here's our favorites from 2020
Powering up your shower
You use for voice for many tasks around the home – such as adjusting the thermostat or turning on the outside lights – so why not control your shower the same way?
With support for the three main voice-activated assistants, the U by Moen Smart Shower system lets you start and stop the shower and activate personalized preferences. For example, say, “Alexa, turn on my shower to 103 degrees,” or “Hey Siri, start preset ‘Post-Workout Shower,’” or “Ok Google, turn off the shower.” You get the idea.
You can also use an app or an in-shower controller, or add the shower to a voice-activated routine, such as one command that closes the blinds in the bathroom, turns on the lights, plays your favorite playlist, and starts the shower.
Prices start at $1,599 for the two-outlet valve and controller; shower heads are purchased separately.
If you’d prefer to only upgrade your shower head, Kohler’s Moxie (from $229) doubles as a high-quality Bluetooth speaker with audio by Harman Kardon. Simply pair your phone to the IPX7-rated Moxie to begin streaming music, podcasts, audiobooks, or local radio apps.
Battery life tops nine hours between charges, and you can remove the speaker to charge up (dock included) or to take it with you somewhere else, such as a bedroom, to continue listening while you get dressed.
Coming soon is support for an Alexa smart assistant, allowing you can ask to play your morning music playlist, hear the news or request how long it will take to get to work – and will give you an accurate look at the roads by taking real-time traffic into account.
A better bidet
Bidets are getting smarter, too, including a new model with a built-in UV sterilizer to automatically cleanse the nozzle after each use.
Called the Discovery DLS Bidet Seat from Bio Bidet ($899), it also houses a warm air dryer, which eliminates the need for any toilet paper, offering a more comfortable (and economical) way to wrap up your cleaning routine.
Speaking of hands-free, the Discovery DLS’s occupancy sensor opens the lid when you get near, and closes when you walk away.
The seat on this low-profile bidet is also heated, with adjustable temperature controls.
This smart wastebasket seals the deal
The townew T1 Automatic Trash Can ($99) may look like an ordinary bathroom (or kitchen) trash can, but it has a couple of tricks up its sleeve.
When you have filled the bag inside with trash, press and hold a button on the outside and it will use a bit of heat to seal the bag for you. Lift it up to toss it into a garbage bin or down an apartment’s trash chute, and it will automatically get the next bag ready for you (it stores excess bags in the ring under the lid).
Each ring holds 25 bags; refill rings are $25 per 3-pack (75 bags) or $32 for a 6-pack (150 bags).
Like many other trashcans, the battery-powered townew (available in white or teal) also has an infrared sensor in front that detects your presence to the lid will open, handsfree.
Reflect on this
Mirror, smart mirror
You might not want your mirror to criticize your skin conditions, but if you believe information (not ignorance) is bliss, the HiMirror Slide ($279) is a smart vanity mirror that can scan your face and analyze skin issues (including dark circles, red spots, fine lines, and so on) and give you personalized tips and product recommendations.
This mirror also lets you watch videos, such as makeup tutorials on YouTube, and copy techniques, plus the aptly named Slide features sliding panels and a foldable stand that can be rotated between portrait and landscape view.
HiMirror Slide has a built-in face light and is Alexa-powered, so you can use your voice to access weather, stream music, hear the news, and so on.
Another company, Hilo Mirror, is selling Android-powered smart mirrors, including the circular Hilo Light ($849), with 13.5-inch touchscreen, and limited-edition Hilo XL ($1,499), a rectangular 21.5-inch touch screen. Both models have speakers and a microphone, and can display videos and web content, show photos and play music. A motion-sensor turns on the mirror when you approach.
A toothbrush on steriods
The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Smart 9700 Rechargeable Toothbrush ($279) can pinpoint where you’re brushing and where you’re not, and show you the info in real-time on a companion app.
With two colors to choose from, there are five modes and three intensities to choose from – for a more personalized brush – plus you’re notified if you’re applying too much pressure. You can set goals and even see a weekly progress report on your brushing habits.
Along with the toothbrush, in the box you also get a charging glass, several brush heads, and a travel case. An optional brush head reordering service automatically orders brush heads for you when it’s time (via the app).
The smart weigh
Have weight-loss goals in 2021? The Withings Body+ ($99) is a smart bathroom scale with a couple of twists.
This Withings scale, which recognizes up to eight users, can also show your BMI (body mass index), a measure of body fat based on height and weight. Body+ can also analyze and display estimated water percentage, and muscle and bone mass.
The info can be read on the scale’s bright screen (along with your local weather forecast), but built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity means the info can also be immediately uploaded to the password-protected Health Mate app or website.
Follow Marc on Twitter: @marc_saltzman. Email him or subscribe to his Tech It Out podcast at marcsaltzman.com.


usatoday--2020-12-26--'Evacuate now. There is a bomb': Human remains reportedly found near explosion in Nashville that dam

NASHVILLE , Tenn. – The FBI was leading an investigation Friday into an explosion that erupted in downtown early Christmas morning , an incident that rattled residents for miles , caused destruction for several blocks and is being called `` intentional '' by authorities .
Mayor John Cooper , giving the last update for the evening , said the relief that not more people were injured has now turned to anger and determination to bring those responsible to justice .
`` This was a terrible day , but Nashville has faced other challenges , particularly this year .
We can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said .
`` This morning ’ s attack on our community was intended to create chaos and fear in this season of peace and hope , but the spirit of our city can not be broken . ''
Authorities say the explosion was deliberate and intentional .
Police have found what they believe are human remains but had not confirmed any fatalities as of Friday afternoon .
Cooper said Nashville will not be deterred in finding the people who orchestrated the explosion .
`` It will be some time until Second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said , reporting at least 41 businesses in the area had been damaged in connection to the explosion .
Police were responding to reports of shots fired near Second Avenue and Commerce Street before 6 a.m. when they saw a suspicious RV outside a nearby AT & T building .
Officers alerted the department 's bomb squad , which was en route , when a `` significant explosion '' happened about 30 minutes later , Metro police spokesperson Don Aaron said .
The force of the explosion knocked an officer to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of The Melting Pot , a restaurant across the street from the explosion , told The Tennessean , part of the USA TODAY Network , that guests reported the RV was stationed there since Thursday night .
Williams , who lives in a loft apartment on the third floor of the restaurant building , said she heard the sound of loud , rapid-fire gunshots at about 4:30 a.m. After multiple rounds of gunshot sounds , Williams said she called 911 .
Then , she said , she heard a repeated warning she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building .
“ Evacuate now .
There is a bomb .
A bomb is in this vehicle and will explode , ” she remembers the recorded warning saying .
Then , she said , the voice started a 15-minute countdown .
Her family headed to Nissan Stadium , about a half-mile away and waited .
When they didn ’ t hear an explosion , they headed back .
That was when they saw a fireball fly over the AT & T building on Second Avenue .
“ Whoever did it did give fair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people were hospitalized with injuries , police said .
None are in critical condition .
At least 20 buildings were damaged , Nashville Mayor John Cooper said .
Police said it is unclear if anyone was inside the RV when it exploded .
The `` tissue '' found near the site had to be examined to confirm if human .
Cooper on Friday afternoon announced he has issued a state of civil emergency at the explosion site and the surrounding area , that will put in place a curfew starting Friday at 4:30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Police were going door-to-door with canines in the downtown areas to search nearby buildings and automobiles , though there is no indication of any additional devices .
Several people were taken to the department 's central precinct for questioning , but authorities declined to give more details Friday morning .
The FBI is taking the lead in the investigation , spokesman Joel Siskovic said , and will be working in conjunction with state and local authorities .
Federal investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives were also in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the explosion could be heard from miles away , and people reported windows shaking from South and East Nashville .
Plumes of black smoke filled the air and several fires flared along what is typically a busy street that intersects with Nashville 's famed tourist attraction , Lower Broadway .
Alarms inside several buildings were heard going off , and water poured into some buildings , causing structural damage and breaking windows .
Trees lining Second Avenue were blackened from the incident .
AT & T internet and phone service were reportedly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – because of the explosion , which took place near an AT & T service facility .
Flights out of Nashville International Airport were halted Friday afternoon because of telecommunications issues associated with the incident .
The airport reported just before 6 p.m. that most flights are resuming but there may be some delays .
The Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp announced Friday afternoon a $ 10,000 contribution toward a reward that stands currently at $ 31,000 in the case .
`` Like everyone , we woke up this Christmas morning to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Avenue .
Our hearts , thoughts , and prayers are with all involved or affected , '' Butch Spyridon , NCVC president and CEO said in a statement .
`` This is when we show the world who we are .
Thank you all for everything you do for our city , and stay safe .
I believe in Nashville . ''
Gov .
Bill Lee said in a statement that the state would provide needed resources to determine what happened and who was responsible .
U.S. Attorney Don Cochran said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in contact with Acting U.S. Attorney General Jeffery Rosen who said he was devoting the entire resources of the Department of Justice to help .
Cooper said he toured the damage , describing broken glass and water mains with insulation `` blown up '' into the trees .
`` It looks like a bomb went off , '' he said .
The downtown area will be `` sealed off '' for further investigation and to make sure everything is `` completely safe , '' he said .
He said the city was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the explosion was limited .
`` One more event in Nashville 's 2020 , '' Cooper said .
President Donald Trump has been briefed and will continue to get regular updates , according to White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere .
“ The president is grateful for the incredible first responders and praying for those who were injured , '' Deere said in a statement .
Andrew Carr , who is staying at the Viridian apartments on Fourth Avenue and Church Street , told The Tennessean he jumped out of bed when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giant thunderclap . ''
He looked out the window and said he saw a `` huge fireball '' rising up behind an AT & T building on Second Avenue and Commerce Street – describing it almost as `` wide as the building itself . ''
Carr said for the next hour he and his family watched the black smoke plumes rise into the sky and could later see debris on top of the AT & T building .
Residents in the apartment building , he said , were told to lock down .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hostel told The Tennessean guests were evacuated to Nissan Stadium for shelter .
He said he got a call early Friday from his staff who reported hearing a `` loud boom '' and the fire alarm going off .
He said the hostel is damaged but did not go into details .
The American Red Cross of Tennessee is working with officials to open a shelter for victims .
`` We will find out who did this , '' Special Agent in Charge Matt Foster said at a Friday afternoon news conference .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We 're putting everything we have into finding who was responsible for what happened here today . ''
Anyone with information on the explosion is encouraged to go to www.fbi.gov/Nashville to submit information .

Yihyun Jeong, Brinley Hineman, Joshua Bote and Jessica Flores, Nashville Tennessean

'Evacuate now. There is a bomb': Human remains reportedly found near explosion in Nashville that damaged 41 buildings, injured 3
Show Caption Hide Caption Nashville explosion: Police identify bomber Authorities are asking anyone who knew Anthony Warner, the man police say is the Nashville bomber, to come forward. Associated Press, USA TODAY
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The FBI was leading an investigation Friday into an explosion that erupted in downtown early Christmas morning, an incident that rattled residents for miles, caused destruction for several blocks and is being called "intentional" by authorities.
Mayor John Cooper, giving the last update for the evening, said the relief that not more people were injured has now turned to anger and determination to bring those responsible to justice.
"This was a terrible day, but Nashville has faced other challenges, particularly this year. We can rebuild and get back to normal," he said. "This morning’s attack on our community was intended to create chaos and fear in this season of peace and hope, but the spirit of our city cannot be broken."
Authorities say the explosion was deliberate and intentional. Police have found what they believe are human remains but had not confirmed any fatalities as of Friday afternoon.
Cooper said Nashville will not be deterred in finding the people who orchestrated the explosion.
"It will be some time until Second Avenue is back to normal," he said, reporting at least 41 businesses in the area had been damaged in connection to the explosion.
Police were responding to reports of shots fired near Second Avenue and Commerce Street before 6 a.m. when they saw a suspicious RV outside a nearby AT&T building.
Officers alerted the department's bomb squad, which was en route, when a "significant explosion" happened about 30 minutes later, Metro police spokesperson Don Aaron said. The force of the explosion knocked an officer to the ground.
Betsy Williams, the owner of The Melting Pot, a restaurant across the street from the explosion, told The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network, that guests reported the RV was stationed there since Thursday night.
Williams, who lives in a loft apartment on the third floor of the restaurant building, said she heard the sound of loud, rapid-fire gunshots at about 4:30 a.m. After multiple rounds of gunshot sounds, Williams said she called 911. Then, she said, she heard a repeated warning she said came from the RV parked outside her building.
“Evacuate now. There is a bomb. A bomb is in this vehicle and will explode,” she remembers the recorded warning saying. Then, she said, the voice started a 15-minute countdown.
Her family headed to Nissan Stadium, about a half-mile away and waited. When they didn’t hear an explosion, they headed back. That was when they saw a fireball fly over the AT&T building on Second Avenue.
“Whoever did it did give fair warning,” Williams said.
Three people were hospitalized with injuries, police said. None are in critical condition. At least 20 buildings were damaged, Nashville Mayor John Cooper said.
Police said it is unclear if anyone was inside the RV when it exploded. The "tissue" found near the site had to be examined to confirm if human.
Cooper on Friday afternoon announced he has issued a state of civil emergency at the explosion site and the surrounding area, that will put in place a curfew starting Friday at 4:30 p.m. until Sunday 4:30 p.m.
Nashville Metro Police were going door-to-door with canines in the downtown areas to search nearby buildings and automobiles, though there is no indication of any additional devices.
Several people were taken to the department's central precinct for questioning, but authorities declined to give more details Friday morning.
The FBI is taking the lead in the investigation, spokesman Joel Siskovic said, and will be working in conjunction with state and local authorities. Federal investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were also in Nashville late Friday morning.
An explosion linked to a vehicle occurred at 6:30 this morning outside 166 2nd Ave N downtown. Investigation active by MNPD & federal partners. — Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) December 25, 2020
The sound of the explosion could be heard from miles away, and people reported windows shaking from South and East Nashville.
Plumes of black smoke filled the air and several fires flared along what is typically a busy street that intersects with Nashville's famed tourist attraction, Lower Broadway. Alarms inside several buildings were heard going off, and water poured into some buildings, causing structural damage and breaking windows.
Trees lining Second Avenue were blackened from the incident.
AT&T internet and phone service were reportedly disrupted nationwide – but mainly throughout Tennessee – because of the explosion, which took place near an AT&T service facility.
Flights out of Nashville International Airport were halted Friday afternoon because of telecommunications issues associated with the incident. The airport reported just before 6 p.m. that most flights are resuming but there may be some delays.
The Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp announced Friday afternoon a $10,000 contribution toward a reward that stands currently at $31,000 in the case.
"Like everyone, we woke up this Christmas morning to the horrible news of the explosion on Second Avenue. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with all involved or affected," Butch Spyridon, NCVC president and CEO said in a statement. "This is when we show the world who we are. Thank you all for everything you do for our city, and stay safe. I believe in Nashville."
Gov. Bill Lee said in a statement that the state would provide needed resources to determine what happened and who was responsible.
U.S. Attorney Don Cochran said in a Friday afternoon news conference that he had been in contact with Acting U.S. Attorney General Jeffery Rosen who said he was devoting the entire resources of the Department of Justice to help.
Cooper said he toured the damage, describing broken glass and water mains with insulation "blown up" into the trees.
"It looks like a bomb went off," he said. The downtown area will be "sealed off" for further investigation and to make sure everything is "completely safe," he said.
He said the city was lucky that the number of injuries from the explosion was limited.
"One more event in Nashville's 2020," Cooper said.
President Donald Trump has been briefed and will continue to get regular updates, according to White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere.
“The president is grateful for the incredible first responders and praying for those who were injured," Deere said in a statement.
Andrew Carr, who is staying at the Viridian apartments on Fourth Avenue and Church Street, told The Tennessean he jumped out of bed when he heard what sounded like a "giant thunderclap."
He looked out the window and said he saw a "huge fireball" rising up behind an AT&T building on Second Avenue and Commerce Street – describing it almost as "wide as the building itself."
Carr said for the next hour he and his family watched the black smoke plumes rise into the sky and could later see debris on top of the AT&T building.
Residents in the apartment building, he said, were told to lock down.
The owner of the nearby Nashville Downtown Hostel told The Tennessean guests were evacuated to Nissan Stadium for shelter. He said he got a call early Friday from his staff who reported hearing a "loud boom" and the fire alarm going off.
He said the hostel is damaged but did not go into details.
The American Red Cross of Tennessee is working with officials to open a shelter for victims.
"We will find out who did this," Special Agent in Charge Matt Foster said at a Friday afternoon news conference. "This is our city, too. We're putting everything we have into finding who was responsible for what happened here today."
Anyone with information on the explosion is encouraged to go to www.fbi.gov/Nashville to submit information.
Contributing: The Associated Press
Here’s another video from Buck McCoy from downtown #Nashville. Look at the destruction. My god. https://t.co/SmPxzo739a pic.twitter.com/rF2pdiRFXS — Ryan Graney👩🏻🦰 (@RyanEGraney) December 25, 2020
Major damage to buildings close to and around scene of huge explosion in #Nashville. Shards of glass and windows blown out hundreds of yards from 2nd Av. pic.twitter.com/gnQiXwCZ3M — Tony Husband (@TonyHusband) December 25, 2020
I’m en route to downtown after hearing what sounded like an explosion. From my rooftop on Main Street I can see a cloud of smoke billowing from downtown. — Brinley Hineman (@brinleyhineman) December 25, 2020


usatoday--2020-12-26--Duke women's basketball ends season after 4 games amid coronavirus concerns

The Duke women 's basketball team is ending its 2020-21 season after just four games , as a result of concerns about the coronavirus pandemic , the school announced Friday evening .
The news was first reported by The Associated Press .
“ The student-athletes on the Duke women ’ s basketball team have made the difficult decision to conclude their current season due to safety concerns , ” said Michael Schoenfeld , Vice President for Public Affairs & Government Relations and Chief Communications Officer for Duke University .
“ We support their decision , as we have supported the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during this unprecedented time .
Duke will maintain our current schedule of competition in other sports and will continue to observe our rigorous health and safety protocols , which include daily testing for all student-athletes and are based on guidance from leading medical experts.
” The men 's basketball team , coached by Mike Krzyzewski , is expected to continue its 2020-21 season despite taking the last two weeks of the non-conference season off to allow players to return home to their families .
The women 's team , led by first-year coach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on its activities since Dec. 16 after two positive COVID-19 tests and contact tracing within the Blue Devils ' traveling party .
Duke had started 3-1 and postponed games against Miami , North Carolina State and UNC Wilmington .
The team ’ s next scheduled contest was against Louisville on Thursday .
The Duke women 's basketball program is the first of any power five school to opt out of finishing its season after having started it .
The Ivy League decided not to play any winter sports back in November .
Several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season , but they were not in NCAA tournament contention like the Blue Devils .
Lawson was hired back in July and had previously stated , `` I do n't think we should be playing right now .
That 's my opinion on it . ''
The virus has already caused many games to be canceled or postponed in the first month of the season .
Countless teams have been on pause because of positives tests in their programs .
The NCAA said earlier this month that it planned to play its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single geographical area with San Antonio being the top choice .

Duke women's basketball ends season after 4 games amid coronavirus concerns
The Duke women's basketball team is ending its 2020-21 season after just four games, as a result of concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, the school announced Friday evening.
The news was first reported by The Associated Press.
“The student-athletes on the Duke women’s basketball team have made the difficult decision to conclude their current season due to safety concerns,” said Michael Schoenfeld, Vice President for Public Affairs & Government Relations and Chief Communications Officer for Duke University.
“We support their decision, as we have supported the choices made by all student-athletes at Duke during this unprecedented time. Duke will maintain our current schedule of competition in other sports and will continue to observe our rigorous health and safety protocols, which include daily testing for all student-athletes and are based on guidance from leading medical experts.”
We have opted out of the 2020-21 season. pic.twitter.com/Hwlv3cp1tH — Duke Women’s Basketball (@DukeWBB) December 25, 2020
The men's basketball team, coached by Mike Krzyzewski, is expected to continue its 2020-21 season despite taking the last two weeks of the non-conference season off to allow players to return home to their families.
The women's team, led by first-year coach Kara Lawson, has had a pause on its activities since Dec. 16 after two positive COVID-19 tests and contact tracing within the Blue Devils' traveling party. Duke had started 3-1 and postponed games against Miami, North Carolina State and UNC Wilmington. The team’s next scheduled contest was against Louisville on Thursday.
The Duke women's basketball program is the first of any power five school to opt out of finishing its season after having started it. The Ivy League decided not to play any winter sports back in November. Several other smaller schools have opted out of the season, but they were not in NCAA tournament contention like the Blue Devils.
Lawson was hired back in July and had previously stated, "I don't think we should be playing right now. That's my opinion on it."
The virus has already caused many games to be canceled or postponed in the first month of the season. Countless teams have been on pause because of positives tests in their programs. The NCAA said earlier this month that it planned to play its Division I women's tournament in a single geographical area with San Antonio being the top choice.
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-12-26--Golfer Greg Norman hospitalized with COVID-19 symptoms

It wasn ’ t much of a Merry Christmas for the Norman clan .
Greg Norman posted a photo to Instagram from a hospital bed during Christmas Day , and his son , Greg Norman , Jr. , posted a photo saying that he and his fiancee have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus .
The elder Norman , a two-time Open champion , had said on Christmas Eve he was in quarantine , suffering from symptoms that were consistent with COVID .
Norman lives in Jupiter , Florida .
“ I just got off the phone with my doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday and the results came back yesterday ( Wednesday ) , which was negative , I am exhibiting mild symptoms of potentially COVID , not too sure .
I feel very flu-like , I have mild fever , I have cough , I have aches and pains , I have a mild headache , so I am in self-quarantine , ” Norman said on Thursday .
“ I don ’ t want to jeopardize affecting any of my friends or loved ones around me.
” But on Friday , he posted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sums it all up .
My Christmas Day .
On behalf of millions , f— CoVid .
This get this s— behind us never to experience it again.
” Norman had competed in the PNC Championship last weekend with his son , Greg Jr. , and the duo finished in the top 10 , but the younger Norman also posted on Christmas Day , saying he and his fiancee had both tested positive , even though their health was improving .
He added : “ Michelle and I unfortunately are wrapping up the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
YA .
No Xmas with the family : / ” Greg Norman Jr. and Michelle Thomson are scheduled to get married on March 6 , 2021 .

It wasn’t much of a Merry Christmas for the Norman clan.
Greg Norman posted a photo to Instagram from a hospital bed during Christmas Day, and his son, Greg Norman, Jr., posted a photo saying that he and his fiancee have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
The elder Norman, a two-time Open champion, had said on Christmas Eve he was in quarantine, suffering from symptoms that were consistent with COVID. Norman lives in Jupiter, Florida.
“I just got off the phone with my doctor and even though I had a test on Tuesday and the results came back yesterday (Wednesday), which was negative, I am exhibiting mild symptoms of potentially COVID, not too sure. I feel very flu-like, I have mild fever, I have cough, I have aches and pains, I have a mild headache, so I am in self-quarantine,” Norman said on Thursday. “I don’t want to jeopardize affecting any of my friends or loved ones around me.”
But on Friday, he posted the following message on Instagram:
“This sums it all up. My Christmas Day. On behalf of millions, f— CoVid. This get this s— behind us never to experience it again.”
Norman had competed in the PNC Championship last weekend with his son, Greg Jr., and the duo finished in the top 10, but the younger Norman also posted on Christmas Day, saying he and his fiancee had both tested positive, even though their health was improving.
He added: “Michelle and I unfortunately are wrapping up the year with a positive diagnosis of COVID. YA. No Xmas with the family :/”
Greg Norman Jr. and Michelle Thomson are scheduled to get married on March 6, 2021.


usatoday--2020-12-25--Spoilers! George Clooney and his 'Midnight Sky' cast spill on that apocalyptic yet hopeful ending

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Spoilers! George Clooney and his 'Midnight Sky’ cast spill on that apocalyptic yet hopeful ending
Show Caption Hide Caption George Clooney on 'Midnight Sky,' 'ER,' what his kids want from Santa George Clooney chats with USA TODAY about his new film “The Midnight Sky” and what his children are asking Santa Claus for this Christmas. Entertain This!, USA TODAY
Spoiler alert! The following details the ending of Netflix's "The Midnight Sky," so beware if you haven't watched it yet.
George Clooney’s apocalyptic space drama “The Midnight Sky” (streaming now on Netflix) brings an end to the Earth, even as its finale offers a glimpse of hope for the future of mankind.
The film follows astronomer Augustine Lofthouse (Clooney), a terminally ill man who decides to live out his life in the Arctic Circle while deadly radiation spreads across the globe. He protects a young stowaway named Iris (Caoilinn Springall) as he tries to warn a returning crew of astronauts to stay away from the planet.
Augustine communicates with Sully (Felicity Jones), a pregnant member of the spaceship Aether – which is returning from a newly discovered Jupiter moon K23 – and the audience learns that Sully is actually Iris Sullivan, the grown-up daughter Augustine never got to know. Which means little Iris was a figment of a dying man’s imagination and also a symbol for his redemption.
The Midnight Sky': Why George Clooney's Netflix film resonates differently during a pandemic
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That “moving” and revelatory scene “was why I wanted to do the film,” Jones tells USA TODAY. “That sort of reconciliation with one's past is quite an emotional moment.”
Living with regret (in Augustine's case, not connecting with his daughter until the end) is something Clooney thought a lot about making "Midnight Sky."
"I have people I know who are older than me, who live with a great deal – huge, big regrets in their life," he says. "And it doesn't get better when you get older. It festers like a cancer in you and it makes you bitter and angry and (ticked) off at time itself and all those things. The desperate need for redemption, in some ways, it's molecular to us."
For Mitchell (Kyle Chandler), Aether's pilot, what's core to him is getting home. Having spent their two-year mission missing his family, he decides to take an escape pod back to Earth with his buddy Sanchez (Demian Bichir) to try and find his loved ones. Meanwhile, Sully and her partner, Commander Tom Adewole (David Oyelowo), choose to head back to K23, a livable place for humans, and pretty much restart the human race.
What Chandler liked about Mitchell’s ending was that, at age 55 and a family man himself, he could understand the decision. “I still want to smell the ocean one more time. I want to touch Mother Earth," he says. "I can't just go back and ride in cold space out to this new place we found, this new world.”
As for Sully and Tom, they have a quiet moment where they realize the enormity of what they’re about to do. As the credits roll, they get back to work aboard the ship.
“There's a strange peacefulness to the ending, isn't there?” Jones says. “There's a pragmatism to it, which is quite interesting having gone through a near-apocalypse as we have over the last few months. It is amazing how the practical does just take over.
“Also, it's a celebration of love in a sense. It's the love between Adewole and Sully that'll keep them going. Their focus is the future of their child and ensuring that that is a safe future.”
Oyelowo feels the finale – inspired by "The Graduate" – is indicative of the film’s meditative and cerebral qualities. “You cannot play the emotion of what would it be like to essentially be Adam and Eve," he says. "What would it be like to be coming back to a planet knowing that it is pretty much done? What is it like to be tasked with going to find a planet for humanity to colonize and inhabit? These are existential questions that are just too mind-blowing.
“You can only play the reality of what is in front of you,” he says. “It allows the audience time to breathe and to reflect and to maybe even project what they would do under those circumstances. That ending is kind of perfect because what else is there to do but to now get on with it?”


usatoday--2020-12-25--Queen Elizabeth II delivers hopeful Christmas message about pandemic: 'You are not alone'

Queen Elizabeth II gave her annual Christmas speech Friday and discussed the sadness wrought by the coronavirus pandemic .
But the queen offered hope to a world in need of cheer .
`` For Christians , Jesus is 'the light of the world , ' but we can ’ t celebrate his birth today in quite the usual way , '' she said in the beginning of her address .
`` People of all faiths have been unable to gather as they would wish for their festivals , such as Passover , Easter , Eid , and Vaisakhi .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The speech was filmed in Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle .
The queen wore an Angela Kelly rich purple dress , the Queen Mother diamond and mother of pearl shell brooch .
She spoke of being inspired by people volunteering across the U.K. to help their communities .
`` In the United Kingdom and around the world , people have risen magnificently to the challenges of the year , and I am so proud and moved by this quiet , indomitable spirit , '' she said .
`` To our young @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the part you have played . ''
Last year 's speech : Queen Elizabeth II acknowledges year 'full of pitfalls ' in annual Christmas Day speech The Queen also reflected on the celebration of International Nurses ' Day earlier this year and thanked frontline workers and the achievements of modern science .
`` Good Samaritans have emerged across society showing care and respect for all , regardless of gender , race or background , reminding us that each one of us is special and equal in the eyes of God , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shy away from acknowledging the great mourning experienced this year .
More than 1.7 million people have died of COVID-19 around the world ; nearly 70,000 have died in the U.K. '' For many , this time of year will be tinged with sadness : some mourning the loss of those dear to them , and others missing friends and family members distanced for safety , when all they ’ d really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand .
If you are among them , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assure you of my thoughts and prayers . ''
The queen and the rest of the royal family typically gather at Sandrigham for the Christmas holiday and attend church , but the pandemic altered those plans this year .
The queen and Prince Philip are spending the holiday at Windsor Castle without their relatives .
The Royal Family posted a video of the St. George 's Chapel choir singing earlier in the day .
Other members of the Royal Family shared messages this Christmas , too .
`` Wishing you all a happy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better New Year ! ''
Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla wrote on Twitter .
The couple , along with actors such as Daniel Craig , Judi Dench , Maggie Smith and Tom Hardy , participated in a reading of Clement Clarke Moore 's 1823 Christmas poem , `` A Visit from St. Nicholas , '' in a video posted Thursday .
`` This Christmas our thoughts are with those of you who are spending today alone , those of you who are mourning the loss of a loved one , and those of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mustering the energy to put your own lives on hold to look after the rest of us , '' Prince William and Duchess Kate wrote on Twitter .
`` Wishing a merry Christmas doesn ’ t feel right this year , so instead we ’ re wishing for a better 2021 . ''
They also listed organizations people can reach out to if they 're struggling .
William 's brother Harry released a Christmas card earlier this week featuring his wife Meghan , son Archie and the couple 's dogs .
Cute : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reading : `` Twas the night before Christmas' Did you see ?
Queen Elizabeth , top royals gather outside for the first time publicly during pandemic

Queen Elizabeth II delivers hopeful Christmas message about pandemic: 'You are not alone'
Show Caption Hide Caption Queen Elizabeth talks coronavirus, gives hope in rare address The 93-year-old queen acknowledged the daunting challenges brought by the COVID-19 crisis but offered hope. USA TODAY, Wochit
Queen Elizabeth II gave her annual Christmas speech Friday and discussed the sadness wrought by the coronavirus pandemic. But the queen offered hope to a world in need of cheer.
"For Christians, Jesus is 'the light of the world,' but we can’t celebrate his birth today in quite the usual way," she said in the beginning of her address. "People of all faiths have been unable to gather as they would wish for their festivals, such as Passover, Easter, Eid, and Vaisakhi. But we need life to go on."
The speech was filmed in Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle. The queen wore an Angela Kelly rich purple dress, the Queen Mother diamond and mother of pearl shell brooch.
She spoke of being inspired by people volunteering across the U.K. to help their communities.
"In the United Kingdom and around the world, people have risen magnificently to the challenges of the year, and I am so proud and moved by this quiet, indomitable spirit," she said. "To our young people in particular I say thank you for the part you have played."
Last year's speech: Queen Elizabeth II acknowledges year 'full of pitfalls' in annual Christmas Day speech
The Queen also reflected on the celebration of International Nurses' Day earlier this year and thanked frontline workers and the achievements of modern science.
"Good Samaritans have emerged across society showing care and respect for all, regardless of gender, race or background, reminding us that each one of us is special and equal in the eyes of God," she added.
Queen Elizabeth did not shy away from acknowledging the great mourning experienced this year. More than 1.7 million people have died of COVID-19 around the world; nearly 70,000 have died in the U.K.
"For many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness: some mourning the loss of those dear to them, and others missing friends and family members distanced for safety, when all they’d really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a squeeze of the hand. If you are among them, you are not alone, and let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers."
The queen and the rest of the royal family typically gather at Sandrigham for the Christmas holiday and attend church, but the pandemic altered those plans this year. The queen and Prince Philip are spending the holiday at Windsor Castle without their relatives.
The Royal Family posted a video of the St. George's Chapel choir singing earlier in the day.
🎄 🎶 Wishing all our followers a very Merry Christmas!
🎥 St George’s Chapel choir sing ‘We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’.
The Chapel, situated in the grounds of Windsor Castle, has a unique Royal history. Find out more: https://t.co/zB4IbaTcbi pic.twitter.com/dYDvfKW4Cx — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) December 25, 2020
Other members of the Royal Family shared messages this Christmas, too.
"Wishing you all a happy Christmas and here’s to a better New Year!" Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla wrote on Twitter. The couple, along with actors such as Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Maggie Smith and Tom Hardy, participated in a reading of Clement Clarke Moore's 1823 Christmas poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas," in a video posted Thursday.
This Christmas our thoughts are with those of you who are spending today alone, those of you who are mourning the loss of a loved one, and those of you on the frontline who are still mustering the energy to put your own lives on hold to look after the rest of us. pic.twitter.com/VvW3rV4fRz — The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) December 25, 2020
"This Christmas our thoughts are with those of you who are spending today alone, those of you who are mourning the loss of a loved one, and those of you on the frontline who are still mustering the energy to put your own lives on hold to look after the rest of us," Prince William and Duchess Kate wrote on Twitter. "Wishing a merry Christmas doesn’t feel right this year, so instead we’re wishing for a better 2021." They also listed organizations people can reach out to if they're struggling.
William's brother Harry released a Christmas card earlier this week featuring his wife Meghan, son Archie and the couple's dogs.
Cute: Prince Charles joins Hollywood royalty for cheery reading: ''Twas the night before Christmas'
Did you see? Queen Elizabeth, top royals gather outside for the first time publicly during pandemic


usatoday--2020-12-16--Recycling wrapping paper? Gift bags? Here's what holiday packaging can go in blue bins.

'T is the season for gift giving .
And waste .
If you 're surrounded by endless wrapping paper , festive bows and Christmas cards this holiday , it 's important to note proper recycling protocols — especially for paper products , the most recycled material in the U.S , according to the Environmental Protection Agency .
`` Millions of Americans can also do their part during the holiday season by recycling paper-based products at home , '' Heidi Brock , President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association , said in a statement to USA TODAY .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ make at the end of the year is `` Wishcycling . ''
`` The act of putting something in the recycling bin in the hope that someone else will figure out what to do with it , actually impedes the recycling process , '' she said , urging communities to help educate consumers about local guidelines .
Not everything can go in those blue bins .
Glue , ribbons and glitter-dusted decorations can clog the recycling process .
Most nonpaper products need to be tossed or reused .
Each holiday gift wrap is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year .
Unsure of what to do as you pack up this season 's festivities in a sustainable way ?
Have no fear — this list is for you .
Recycle ?
Reuse ?
Or trash ?
Here 's what you need to know .
When should you mail gifts for Christmas ?
Your shipping questions , answered Will gifts arrive in time for Christmas ?
: Target , Macy 's , other stores offering same-day delivery for holiday rush Brock said plain wrapping paper can be recycled .
Sheets with foil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not .
Additional nonpaper embellishments should also be avoided .
According to Lisa Skumatz , National Recycling Coalition chairperson , wrapping paper should be separated from your regular curbside mix .
It can be recycled with special programs for collection and drop-off in some cities .
Try reusing wrapping paper that ca n't be recycled .
If Christmas morning causes damage beyond repair , trash it — and maybe consider sturdier gift bags to easily reuse in the future .
“ We do discourage people from using wrapping paper because it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to either use reusable gift bags or other types of materials or use recyclable material like calendars , maps , etc , '' said Randy Moorman of Ecocycle , a recycling non-profit in Colorado .
Gift bag recycling requirements are similar to wrapping paper .
Plain paper bags can be put in the recycling bin — but not bags made with plastic , foil or fabric according to Brock and the American Forest and Paper Association .
If a paper bag has rope handles , beads or other nonpaper decorative elements , remove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't fit recycling requirements , they will need to be trashed or reused .
Good news is , they are easy to preserve .
Ribbons and bows are not accepted at recycling bins .
The decorations can clog production at recycling plants .
To fix the problem , `` the facility then needs to shut down all the equipment so they can get in and cut out all the junk , ” Peter Spendelow , a materials management specialist for Oregon 's Department of Environmental Quality , previously told USA TODAY .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reuse , trash them .
Otherwise , save them for next year — tape can be a perfect substitute adhesive .
According to the American Forest and Paper Association , cards and envelopes made of paper can be recycled .
But those with glitter , plastic or metallic accents should be tossed in the trash .
'Well ... THAT was CRAZY ! '
: COVID-themed holiday cards reflect dumpster fire that is 2020 Online orders are on the rise this year and cardboard boxes need to be recycled properly .
In short @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remove nonpaper packing materials .
Packing peanuts and bubble wrap are not recyclable .
And unflattened boxes take up more room in recycling trucks — causing crews to make more trips .
`` This year many gifts will arrive to households in corrugated boxes , which are designed to be recycled , '' Brock said .
`` These recycled paper fibers can be used at least seven times to make new paper products .
We ask consumers to remove any nonpaper packing materials , break boxes down flat , keep them dry and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin . ''

Recycling wrapping paper? Gift bags? Here's what holiday packaging can go in blue bins
Show Caption Hide Caption Christmas and holiday gift wrapping tricks Have to wrap an oddly shaped present Here's a DIY-wrapping tutorial that can work for the weirdest-shaped gifts. ProblemSolved, USA TODAY
'Tis the season for gift giving. And waste.
If you're surrounded by endless wrapping paper, festive bows and Christmas cards this holiday, it's important to note proper recycling protocols – especially for paper products, the most recycled material in the U.S, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
"Millions of Americans can also do their part during the holiday season by recycling paper-based products at home," Heidi Brock, President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association, said in a statement to USA TODAY.
Brock added that a common mistake people make at the end of the year is "wishcycling."
"The act of putting something in the recycling bin in the hope that someone else will figure out what to do with it actually impedes the recycling process," she said, urging communities to help educate consumers about local guidelines.
Not everything can go in those blue bins. Glue, ribbons and glitter-dusted decorations can clog the recycling process. Most nonpaper products need to be tossed or reused.
Each holiday gift wrap is disposed of differently at the end of the year. Unsure of what to do as you pack up this season's festivities in a sustainable way?
Recycle? Reuse? Or trash? Here's what you need to know:
When should you mail gifts for Christmas? Your shipping questions, answered
Will gifts arrive in time for Christmas?: Target, Macy's, other stores offering same-day delivery for holiday rush
Wrapping paper
Brock said plain wrapping paper can be recycled. Sheets with foil, glitter and plastic or poly coatings cannot. Additional nonpaper embellishments should also be avoided.
According to Lisa Skumatz, National Recycling Coalition chairperson, wrapping paper should be separated from your regular curbside mix. It can be recycled with special programs for collection and drop-off in some cities.
Try reusing wrapping paper that can't be recycled. If Christmas morning causes damage beyond repair, trash it – and maybe consider sturdier gift bags to easily reuse in the future.
“We do discourage people from using wrapping paper because it is difficult to recycle and instead encourage people to either use reusable gift bags or other types of materials or use recyclable material like calendars, maps, etc," said Randy Moorman of Ecocycle, a recycling nonprofit in Colorado.
Gift bags
Gift bag recycling requirements are similar to wrapping paper. Plain paper bags can be put in the recycling bin – but not bags made with plastic, foil, or fabric according to Brock and the American Forest and Paper Association.
If a paper bag has rope handles, beads, or other nonpaper decorative elements, remove them before recycling.
If your bags don't fit recycling requirements, they will need to be trashed or reused. The good news is, they are easy to preserve.
Ribbons and bows
Ribbons and bows are not accepted at recycling bins. The decorations can clog production at recycling plants.
To fix the problem, "the facility then needs to shut down all the equipment so they can get in and cut out all the junk,” Peter Spendelow, a materials management specialist for Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality, previously told USA TODAY.
When ribbons and bows are too ugly to reuse, trash them. Otherwise, save them for next year – tape can be a perfect substitute adhesive.
Christmas cards
Don't forget to sort holiday cards.
According to the American Forest and Paper Association, cards and envelopes made of paper can be recycled. But those with glitter, plastic, or metallic accents should be tossed in the trash.
Most recycling processes will remove stamps.
More: Don't make these mistakes when addressing holiday cards
'Well... THAT was CRAZY!': COVID-themed holiday cards reflect dumpster fire that is 2020
Cardboard boxes
Online orders are on the rise this year and cardboard boxes need to be recycled properly.
In short: don't forget to flatten and remove nonpaper packing materials.
Packing peanuts and bubble wrap are not recyclable. And unflattened boxes take up more room in recycling trucks – causing crews to make more trips.
"This year many gifts will arrive to households in corrugated boxes, which are designed to be recycled," Brock said. "These recycled paper fibers can be used at least seven times to make new paper products. We ask consumers to remove any nonpaper packing materials, break boxes down flat, keep them dry and clean and place them in the recycling bin."
Contributing: Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-25--Christmas Day's lump of coal for the East: Flooding threats, frigid temps, wicked winds

After a mild Christmas Eve across much of the East , Christmas Day dawned like a tooth-baring Grinch : flooding threats , wicked winds and plummeting temperatures under dismal gray skies .
`` A strong frontal system will continue to bring gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall to parts of the Northeast U.S. , '' the National Weather Service said Friday .
`` This combined with snowmelt will lead to major flooding in some areas . ''
On Thursday night , about 275,000 customers lost power across Pennsylvania , New Jersey and New York , according to PowerOutage.us , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Wind advisories and high-wind warnings remained in effect Friday along the Northeast coast from New York to Boston and into Maine .
Near-hurricane force winds ( 74 mph ) were possible , the Weather Channel said .
Regional to widespread power outages were possible throughout Friday along the mid-Atlantic coast and into New England , Accuweather said .
`` This could evolve into a dangerous situation where there is significant property damage and there are trees crashing down onto streets and into homes from Long Island to southern New England , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Who could get a white Christmas : With some parts of the US 'feeling like the North Pole , ' here 's who might get a white Christmas this year Rainfall throughout the Northeast could add significant weight to a 3- to 4-inch snowpack already on the ground in parts of New York state and northern Pennsylvania , Accuweather warned .
`` The rapidly melting snow , which contains approximately 1-3 inches of water , will combine with an anticipated 1-3 inches of rain and locally higher amounts from the storm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said .
Falling iguanas : Cold weather in Florida may cause iguanas to fall out of trees .
But they 're not dead .
In fact , 3-6 inches of water could be released in a matter of hours , meteorologists said .
Even in places where rain had ended Friday morning , rising rivers – especially in low-lying areas – could be a concern across the Northeast , Accuweather said .
The rain over parts of the Northern Mid-Atlantic could still change over to snow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to the National Weather Service .
Temperatures across most of the eastern third of the nation were expected to be frosty .
`` The Arctic air and brutal winds will make it feel like the dead of winter – and the combination of snow and a dramatic freeze-up will have some locations feeling like the North Pole , '' AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said .

Christmas Day's lump of coal for the East: Flooding threats, frigid temps, wicked winds
Show Caption Hide Caption Snowy weather brings a white winter to the U.S. Many parts of the country are dusted with snow and may even get a white Christmas. USA TODAY, Storyful
I'm dreaming of a ... meteorological mess?
After a mild Christmas Eve across much of the East, Christmas Day dawned like a tooth-baring Grinch: flooding threats, wicked winds and plummeting temperatures under dismal gray skies.
"A strong frontal system will continue to bring gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall to parts of the Northeast U.S.," the National Weather Service said Friday. "This combined with snowmelt will lead to major flooding in some areas."
On Thursday night, about 275,000 customers lost power across Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, according to PowerOutage.us, as 50 to 60-mph winds slammed the region. Wind advisories and high-wind warnings remained in effect Friday along the Northeast coast from New York to Boston and into Maine. Near-hurricane force winds (74 mph) were possible, the Weather Channel said.
Regional to widespread power outages were possible throughout Friday along the mid-Atlantic coast and into New England, Accuweather said.
"This could evolve into a dangerous situation where there is significant property damage and there are trees crashing down onto streets and into homes from Long Island to southern New England," AccuWeather's northeastern weather expert Dave Dombek said.
Who could get a white Christmas: With some parts of the US 'feeling like the North Pole,' here's who might get a white Christmas this year
Flooding loomed as a major concern.
Rainfall throughout the Northeast could add significant weight to a 3- to 4-inch snowpack already on the ground in parts of New York state and northern Pennsylvania, Accuweather warned.
"The rapidly melting snow, which contains approximately 1-3 inches of water, will combine with an anticipated 1-3 inches of rain and locally higher amounts from the storm from Christmas Eve to early Christmas Day," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Brett Anderson said.
Falling iguanas: Cold weather in Florida may cause iguanas to fall out of trees. But they're not dead.
In fact, 3-6 inches of water could be released in a matter of hours, meteorologists said.
Even in places where rain had ended Friday morning, rising rivers – especially in low-lying areas – could be a concern across the Northeast, Accuweather said.
The rain over parts of the Northern Mid-Atlantic could still change over to snow by Christmas evening into Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Temperatures across most of the eastern third of the nation were expected to be frosty. "The Arctic air and brutal winds will make it feel like the dead of winter – and the combination of snow and a dramatic freeze-up will have some locations feeling like the North Pole," AccuWeather senior meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said.


usatoday--2020-12-26--NFL playoff picture as Week 16 begins: New Orleans Saints finally clinch NFC South

Here 's how the NFL playoff picture looks as Week 16 commences .
( Note : the postseason field expands to 14 teams this season and could potentially go to 16 if the league 's schedule is thrown into disarray down the stretch by COVID-19 disruptions . )
y-1 .
Kansas City Chiefs ( 13-1 ) , AFC West champions : A win or loss by either the Bills or Steelers secures home-field advantage .
y-2 .
Buffalo Bills ( 11-3 ) , AFC East champions : They 're division titlists for the first time in 25 years after embarrassing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is virtually out of reach given Buffalo lost to Kansas City in Week 6. x-3 .
Pittsburgh Steelers ( 11-3 ) , AFC North leaders : Failed to wrap up division and just about played themselves out of conversation for home field and first-round bye .
Just need a win to wrap up division .
4 .
Tennessee Titans ( 10-4 ) , AFC South leaders : Win gives them a playoff berth , and they 'll secure division , too , if Colts lose in Pittsburgh .
A loss by the Dolphins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
5 .
Cleveland Browns ( 10-4 ) , wild card No .
1 : They 're playoff bound for first time since 2002 with a victory against the Jets ... assuming either Baltimore or Miami lose .
6 .
Indianapolis Colts ( 10-4 ) , wild card No .
2 : They 're into field with a win and a loss by Ravens or Fins .
7 .
Miami Dolphins ( 9-5 ) , wild card No .
3 : Need to beat Las Vegas on Saturday night as they try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Baltimore Ravens ( 9-5 ) , first team out of field : Their 6-5 record against AFC clubs currently has them looking up at Browns , Colts and Dolphins , each 6-4 within the conference .
y-1 .
Green Bay Packers ( 11-3 ) , NFC North champions : A win plus a Seahawks defeat means Pack gets to stay at Lambeau Field in January .
y-2 .
New Orleans Saints ( 11-4 ) , NFC South champions : Won division for fourth consecutive season on Christmas , but they 'll need a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 seed .
x-3 .
Seattle Seahawks ( 10-4 ) , NFC West leaders : Playoff bound for the eighth time in QB Russell Wilson 's nine-year career , they win the division by beating the Rams on Sunday .
4 .
Washington Football Team ( 6-8 ) , NFC East leaders : Can remarkably clinch division with a win plus a loss by the Giants .
5 .
Los Angeles Rams ( 9-5 ) , wild card No .
1 : Suffered humiliating loss to the Jets , failed to clinch a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place in the NFC West in Week 15 .
But win in Seattle on Sunday , and L.A. goes back to top of division standings .
6 .
Tampa Bay Buccaneers ( 9-5 ) , wild card No .
2 : Bucs will advance to postseason for first time since 2007 by beating Lions on Saturday .
7 .
Arizona Cardinals ( 8-6 ) , wild card No .
3 : They staved off Philadelphia to maintain control of the conference 's final playoff position ... and picked up a game on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago Bears ( 7-7 ) , first team out of field : They 've suddenly won two in a row on heels of six-game losing streak .
If you love talking 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 .
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NFL playoff picture as Week 16 begins: Bucs, Tom Brady headed to postseason, Cardinals might not be
Show Caption Hide Caption Lorenzo's Locks: The 3 best bets you should consider for NFL Week 16 SportsPulse: Lorenzo is here to spread some holiday cheer and solid take to the bank bets for Week 16 in the NFL. USA TODAY
Here's how the NFL playoff picture looks as Week 16 commences. (Note: the postseason field expands to 14 teams this season and could potentially go to 16 if the league's schedule is thrown into disarray down the stretch by COVID-19 disruptions.)
AFC
y-1. Kansas City Chiefs (13-1), AFC West champions: A win against the Falcons or a loss by either the Bills or Steelers secures home-field advantage for champs.
y-2. Buffalo Bills (11-3), AFC East champions: They're division titlists for the first time in 25 years. Top seed is virtually out of reach given Buffalo lost to Kansas City in Week 6.
x-3. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-3), AFC North leaders: Failed to wrap up division and just about played themselves out of conversation for home field and first-round bye after third straight loss. Just need a win to wrap up division.
4. Tennessee Titans (10-4), AFC South leaders: Win gives them a playoff berth, and they'll secure division, too, if Colts lose in Pittsburgh. A loss by the Dolphins or Ravens also puts Tennessee into field.
5. Cleveland Browns (10-4), wild card No. 1: They're playoff bound for first time since 2002 with a victory against the Jets ... assuming either Baltimore, Indianapolis or Miami lose.
6. Indianapolis Colts (10-4), wild card No. 2: They're into field with a win and a loss by Ravens or Fins.
7. Miami Dolphins (10-5), wild card No. 3: Ultimately came up aces in Las Vegas and are now just one win from playoff berth.
8. Baltimore Ravens (9-5), first team out of field: Their 6-5 record against AFC clubs currently has them looking up at Browns, Colts and Dolphins, each 6-4 within the conference.
NFC
y-1. Green Bay Packers (11-3), NFC North champions: A win plus a Seahawks defeat means Pack gets to stay at Lambeau Field in January.
y-2. New Orleans Saints (11-4), NFC South champions: Won division for fourth consecutive season on Christmas, but they'll need a lot of help to reclaim No. 1 seed.
x-3. Seattle Seahawks (10-4), NFC West leaders: Playoff bound for the eighth time in QB Russell Wilson's nine-year career, they win the division by beating the Rams on Sunday.
4. Washington Football Team (6-8), NFC East leaders: Can remarkably clinch division with a win plus a loss by the Giants.
x-5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-5), wild card No. 1: They advance to postseason for first time since 2007 after crushing Lions but will drop back down to sixth seed if Rams win on Sunday.
6. Los Angeles Rams (9-5), wild card No. 2: Suffered humiliating loss to the Jets, failed to clinch a playoff spot and fell out of first place in the NFC West in Week 15. But win in Seattle on Sunday, and L.A. goes back to top of division standings and ensures a playoff return.
7. Arizona Cardinals (8-7), wild card No. 3: Devastating loss to the division rival 49ers on Saturday afternoon means Chicago now controls path to final NFC wild-card berth.
8. Chicago Bears (7-7), first team out of field: They've suddenly won two in a row on heels of six-game losing streak. Win their final two games (at Jacksonville vs. Green Bay), and they claim a most surprising postseason berth.
x — clinched berth
y — clinched division
***
Follow USA TODAY Sports' Nate Davis on Twitter @ByNateDavis.
If you love talking 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!