usatoday--2020-11-11--Play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert will call a high school football game this week

FOX broadcaster Kenny Albert is prepping his information charts for the NFL clash between the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday .
Right next to those charts are charts for a New Jersey high school matchup : Northern Valley/Demarest Norsemen and Dumont Huskies .
Albert , a long-time Bergen County , New Jersey , resident with a distinctive voice , has volunteered to handle play-by-play duties on the NV/Demarest livestream of the Norsemen 's game Thursday night .
What originally started as bit of a joke became serious .
Before calling the undefeated Steelers and Bengals at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1-5 Norsemen taking on the 1-5 Huskies , who are squaring off for the first time since 1993 .
“ It ’ ll be a lot of fun , ” said Albert , who does play-by-play for all four major U.S. professional sports , on Tuesday .
Albert currently has a daughter at NV/Demarest and said he ’ d been receiving emails about the school ’ s livestream showings of different sports .
He said to Norsemen athletic director Greg Butler that if there were ever a Thursday night football game , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his voice .
That opportunity arose this week as COVID-19 continues to shuffle schedules around and the Norsemen were given a Thursday slot .
Butler showed Albert around the stadium Monday , then Albert watched some of the Norsemen practice and met with NV/Demarest coach Tony Mottola .
Albert also reached out to Dumont coach Rick Burd to do his research .
“ It ’ s amazing the talent he has , ” Butler said .
“ He ’ s treating this like any other game .
It ’ s going to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with one camera and no announcers , just relying on the public address announcer to clue watchers on the action .
Albert will be joined Thursday by NV/Demarest alum Eli Nachmany doing color commentary .
“ I don ’ t think anyone wants to hear me talk for two straight hours , ” Albert laughed .
The veteran broadcaster , who is the son of longtime basketball announcer Marv Albert , got his start in Long Island calling high school girls basketball games .
He worked his way up the media ladder before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is the first time he ’ s ever had to ask his daughter for the correct pronunciations for names , since she attends school with the players , and how , because of his constant travel , it will be his first NV/Demarest football game .
“ I never feel like I am going to work ; now , there is a lot of prep and travel time , but I love what I do .
I have known some of these kids since nursery school , ” Albert said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun .
This is a way to give back something to the community .
”

Play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert will call a high school football game this week
FOX broadcaster Kenny Albert is prepping his information charts for the NFL clash between the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.
Right next to those charts are charts for a New Jersey high school matchup: Northern Valley/Demarest Norsemen and Dumont Huskies.
Albert, a long-time Bergen County, New Jersey, resident with a distinctive voice, has volunteered to handle play-by-play duties on the NV/Demarest livestream of the Norsemen's game Thursday night.
What originally started as bit of a joke became serious. Before calling the undefeated Steelers and Bengals at 4:25 p.m. Sunday, Albert will call the 1-5 Norsemen taking on the 1-5 Huskies, who are squaring off for the first time since 1993.
“It’ll be a lot of fun,” said Albert, who does play-by-play for all four major U.S. professional sports, on Tuesday.
Albert currently has a daughter at NV/Demarest and said he’d been receiving emails about the school’s livestream showings of different sports. He said to Norsemen athletic director Greg Butler that if there were ever a Thursday night football game, he’d be happy to lend his voice.
That opportunity arose this week as COVID-19 continues to shuffle schedules around and the Norsemen were given a Thursday slot.
Butler showed Albert around the stadium Monday, then Albert watched some of the Norsemen practice and met with NV/Demarest coach Tony Mottola. Albert also reached out to Dumont coach Rick Burd to do his research.
“It’s amazing the talent he has,” Butler said. “He’s treating this like any other game. It’s going to be good.”
NV/Demarest has been livestreaming games with one camera and no announcers, just relying on the public address announcer to clue watchers on the action. Albert will be joined Thursday by NV/Demarest alum Eli Nachmany doing color commentary.
“I don’t think anyone wants to hear me talk for two straight hours,” Albert laughed.
The veteran broadcaster, who is the son of longtime basketball announcer Marv Albert, got his start in Long Island calling high school girls basketball games. He worked his way up the media ladder before joining Fox in 1994.
Albert joked that this is the first time he’s ever had to ask his daughter for the correct pronunciations for names, since she attends school with the players, and how, because of his constant travel, it will be his first NV/Demarest football game.
“I never feel like I am going to work; now, there is a lot of prep and travel time, but I love what I do. I have known some of these kids since nursery school,” Albert said. “This will be a lot of fun. This is a way to give back something to the community.”
Darren Cooper is a high school sports columnist for NorthJersey.com. Email: cooperd@northjersey.com Twitter: @varsityaces


usatoday--2020-11-11--Apple's M1 chips inside latest Macs offer fresh opportunities. Here's what you need to know.

Just as few people bother to look under the hood when shopping for a new car , most consumers do n't worry much about the processors that power their new laptops .
In both cases , though , the `` engines '' enabling these devices can make a big difference in how they perform and what they can do .
So , the launch of a new range of Apple MacBook laptops and desktops , built around Apple-designed chips that leverage technology from a UK-based company called Arm , is worth a bit of analysis .
First , it 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ technology in Apple 's new MacBook Air , MacBook Pro and Mac Mini is the same basic technology that 's found in iPhones , including the new iPhone 12 .
The new M1 chip in the various Macs that Apple just announced is more powerful than the A14 Bionic chip used in the iPhone 12 line ( it has 8 CPU cores vs. 6 in the A14 , for example ) , but they 're conceptually similar in many ways .
The practical benefit of this is that these are the first Macs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applications originally written for iPhones and iPads .
New items : Apple introduces new 3 Mac computers with more power promised How to pick the right video game console : Xbox Series X/S , PlayStation 5 , or Nintendo Switch ?
Of course , a critical difference is that , unlike iPhones and iPads , these Macs do n't have touch screens , making the process of interacting with these applications different , and likely , not quite as intuitive .
Yes , the latest version of iPadOS includes keyboard and mouse support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most people who try running iOS apps on these new Macs will touch the Mac screen and be disappointed to find it does n't respond .
It 's about control for Apple , do n't expect lower prices However , iOS app compatibility is not the main reason Apple chose to put Arm-based CPUs into the new MacBooks .
Frankly , the real reason is because Apple wants to control its own product and technology destiny , instead of relying on chip partners like Intel and AMD .
Plus , the tremendous success @ @ @ @ @ @ @ iPhones , iPads , and Apple Watches has encouraged them to finally extend this approach to the Mac as well .
From a practical perspective , there were a number of reasons why Apple chose to develop the M1 chip and use it in these new Macs , all of which were on display at Apple 's launch event .
First , for the two notebooks , the company highlighted the additional battery life that the M1 chip brought to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro ( up to a 10 hour increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with M1 versus its predecessor , for example ) .
Some people also thought ( and hoped ) Apple would lower prices on Macs with its own chips , but that only occurred on the Mac Mini desktop , which is now $ 100 lower than its predecessor .
Transitioning could be challenging for older Mac users From a performance perspective , Apple made some pretty aggressive claims about how well M1-based Macs can perform against their Intel-based predecessors as well as unspecified `` standard '' Windows-based PCs .
This is an area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ definitive answers on until real-world benchmarks and other performance tests can be run next week when the machines are released .
Still , claims of up to 2x faster CPU and GPU performance and even higher application-level performance certainly sound impressive and potentially provide strong justification for Apple ’ s move to the new chip architecture .
Despite all these potential benefits of the Apple M1 chip , it 's also important to recognize the potential challenges that come with transitioning to a new type of chip architecture .
Most critically , existing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or in some cases , essentially rewritten ) in order to function effectively on these new machines .
Most Macs , like most PCs , are based on what are called x86 processors , which is the type made by AMD and by Apple ’ s previous CPU supplier , Intel .
Apple 's new phones : First look at iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Mini Staycation : Watch shows , read books and text your friends for free Programs written to work on x86-based computers have to essentially be translated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like the new Apple M1-based Macs .
Apple has said that they had already done the translation , or `` porting '' work on their own applications , such as Safari , Final Cut Pro , GarageBand , among others , but many third-party software vendors like Adobe , most game publishers , and others , still have to do that work .
In the meantime , Apple has a software technology called Rosetta 2 ( the original version of Rosetta was created when Apple moved away from PowerPC-based chips to Intel-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allows existing x86-based applications to run in emulation mode , which does a form of real-time translation .
Ring of fire ?
:350,000 Ring video doorbells recalled for potential fire hazard after 23 devices ignite Apple has a strong history in handling this type of transition well , but there are still questions as to how effectively this will work this time around , what existing Mac apps might break , and what hardware peripherals ( which will also require new drivers to work on M1-based Macs ) will function properly .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s interesting to note that Apple will continue to sell MacBook Pros with Intel x86-based Core processors – clearly they recognize that some people will need/want Intel-based Macs to run their existing applications .
Not all Macs will get the new chip right away Also , while Apple was excited to announce these first Arm-based Macs , they also made it clear that the transition for the entire Mac line will likely take several years .
In particular , the company 's highest performing iMacs and the Mac Pro will undoubtedly continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see upgraded versions of them – well into 2022 .
One of the other interesting potential outcomes of Apple 's move to Arm-based processors is the potential positive impact it could have on Windows-based computers that use Qualcomm 's 8CX processor ( such as the Microsoft Surface Pro X ) , which is also based on Arm technology .
To date , these Windows-on-Arm PCs haven ’ t sold in large quantities , but Apple ’ s effort could be seen as further legitimizing the technology .
Plus , it 's possible that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others in moving x86-based Mac apps to Arm-based Macs could also encourage and speed up the process of moving from x86-based Windows to Arm-based Windows PCs .
The two types of Arm chips aren ’ t identical , so there will be extra effort involved , but it will certainly be interesting to see .
Plus , all the Windows-based Arm devices include a built-in cellular modem , primarily 5G , which is an added benefit that Apple did not choose to integrate into this first-generation Mac-focused Arm processor .
Ultimately , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of development that , ironically , the company hopes most people wo n't really notice .
What they want to do is to continue the evolution of the Mac with new components that they believe can make their computers work faster , longer , and more effectively .
It 's certainly a valid strategy and one that will be interesting to watch play out over time .
USA TODAY columnist Bob O'Donnell is the president and chief analyst of TECHnalysis Research , a market research and consulting firm that provides strategic consulting and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and professional financial community .
His clients are major technology firms including Microsoft , HP , Dell , Samsung and Intel .
You can follow him on Twitter @ bobodtech .
The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author ’ s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY .

Apple's M1 chips inside latest Macs offer fresh opportunities. Here's what you need to know.
Show Caption Hide Caption Apple unveils Macs with Apple-powered processors Apple is rolling out its first Mac computers powered by the same kind of chips that run iPhones and iPads in a move aimed at making it even easier for its most popular products to work together. (Nov. 10) AP
Just as few people bother to look under the hood when shopping for a new car, most consumers don't worry much about the processors that power their new laptops. In both cases, though, the "engines" enabling these devices can make a big difference in how they perform and what they can do.
So, the launch of a new range of Apple MacBook laptops and desktops, built around Apple-designed chips that leverage technology from a UK-based company called Arm, is worth a bit of analysis.
First, it's important to remember that the Arm-based processor technology in Apple's new MacBook Air, MacBook Pro and Mac Mini is the same basic technology that's found in iPhones, including the new iPhone 12. The new M1 chip in the various Macs that Apple just announced is more powerful than the A14 Bionic chip used in the iPhone 12 line (it has 8 CPU cores vs. 6 in the A14, for example), but they're conceptually similar in many ways. The practical benefit of this is that these are the first Macs that have the ability to run iOS applications originally written for iPhones and iPads.
New items: Apple introduces new 3 Mac computers with more power promised
How to pick the right video game console: Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, or Nintendo Switch?
Of course, a critical difference is that, unlike iPhones and iPads, these Macs don't have touch screens, making the process of interacting with these applications different, and likely, not quite as intuitive. Yes, the latest version of iPadOS includes keyboard and mouse support, but there's no doubt that most people who try running iOS apps on these new Macs will touch the Mac screen and be disappointed to find it doesn't respond.
It's about control for Apple, don't expect lower prices
However, iOS app compatibility is not the main reason Apple chose to put Arm-based CPUs into the new MacBooks. Frankly, the real reason is because Apple wants to control its own product and technology destiny, instead of relying on chip partners like Intel and AMD. Plus, the tremendous success they've had with this strategy in iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches has encouraged them to finally extend this approach to the Mac as well.
From a practical perspective, there were a number of reasons why Apple chose to develop the M1 chip and use it in these new Macs, all of which were on display at Apple's launch event. First, for the two notebooks, the company highlighted the additional battery life that the M1 chip brought to the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro (up to a 10 hour increase for video playback on the MacBook Pro with M1 versus its predecessor, for example). Some people also thought (and hoped) Apple would lower prices on Macs with its own chips, but that only occurred on the Mac Mini desktop, which is now $100 lower than its predecessor.
Transitioning could be challenging for older Mac users
From a performance perspective, Apple made some pretty aggressive claims about how well M1-based Macs can perform against their Intel-based predecessors as well as unspecified "standard" Windows-based PCs. This is an area that we won’t have any definitive answers on until real-world benchmarks and other performance tests can be run next week when the machines are released. Still, claims of up to 2x faster CPU and GPU performance and even higher application-level performance certainly sound impressive and potentially provide strong justification for Apple’s move to the new chip architecture.
Despite all these potential benefits of the Apple M1 chip, it's also important to recognize the potential challenges that come with transitioning to a new type of chip architecture. Most critically, existing Mac software has to be reworked (or in some cases, essentially rewritten) in order to function effectively on these new machines. Most Macs, like most PCs, are based on what are called x86 processors, which is the type made by AMD and by Apple’s previous CPU supplier, Intel.
Apple's new phones: First look at iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Mini
Staycation: Watch shows, read books and text your friends for free
Programs written to work on x86-based computers have to essentially be translated to work most effectively on Arm-based computers, like the new Apple M1-based Macs. Apple has said that they had already done the translation, or "porting" work on their own applications, such as Safari, Final Cut Pro, GarageBand, among others, but many third-party software vendors like Adobe, most game publishers, and others, still have to do that work.
In the meantime, Apple has a software technology called Rosetta 2 (the original version of Rosetta was created when Apple moved away from PowerPC-based chips to Intel-based ones about 15 years ago) that allows existing x86-based applications to run in emulation mode, which does a form of real-time translation.
Ring of fire?: 350,000 Ring video doorbells recalled for potential fire hazard after 23 devices ignite
Apple has a strong history in handling this type of transition well, but there are still questions as to how effectively this will work this time around, what existing Mac apps might break, and what hardware peripherals (which will also require new drivers to work on M1-based Macs) will function properly. In part because of these concerns, it’s interesting to note that Apple will continue to sell MacBook Pros with Intel x86-based Core processors – clearly they recognize that some people will need/want Intel-based Macs to run their existing applications.
Not all Macs will get the new chip right away
Also, while Apple was excited to announce these first Arm-based Macs, they also made it clear that the transition for the entire Mac line will likely take several years. In particular, the company's highest performing iMacs and the Mac Pro will undoubtedly continue to use x86 processors – and even see upgraded versions of them – well into 2022.
One of the other interesting potential outcomes of Apple's move to Arm-based processors is the potential positive impact it could have on Windows-based computers that use Qualcomm's 8CX processor (such as the Microsoft Surface Pro X), which is also based on Arm technology.
To date, these Windows-on-Arm PCs haven’t sold in large quantities, but Apple’s effort could be seen as further legitimizing the technology. Plus, it's possible that software translation efforts from developers like Adobe and others in moving x86-based Mac apps to Arm-based Macs could also encourage and speed up the process of moving from x86-based Windows to Arm-based Windows PCs.
The two types of Arm chips aren’t identical, so there will be extra effort involved, but it will certainly be interesting to see. Plus, all the Windows-based Arm devices include a built-in cellular modem, primarily 5G, which is an added benefit that Apple did not choose to integrate into this first-generation Mac-focused Arm processor.
Ultimately, this move by Apple is the kind of development that, ironically, the company hopes most people won't really notice. What they want to do is to continue the evolution of the Mac with new components that they believe can make their computers work faster, longer, and more effectively. It's certainly a valid strategy and one that will be interesting to watch play out over time.
USA TODAY columnist Bob O'Donnell is the president and chief analyst of TECHnalysis Research, a market research and consulting firm that provides strategic consulting and market research services to the technology industry and professional financial community. His clients are major technology firms including Microsoft, HP, Dell, Samsung and Intel. You can follow him on Twitter @bobodtech.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.


usatoday--2020-11-11--CNN tops cable ratings for total viewers during election week, Biden's speech

As news outlets battled for viewers in the days that followed the election , CNN came out on top with the most total viewers in the week .
CNN edged Fox News among total viewers for the week , averaging 5.9 million viewers to Fox ’ s 5.7 million , according to The Associated Press .
But Fox News was dominant on Tuesday as President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden faced off at the polls .
Fox averaged 14.1 million viewers Tuesday to CNN ’ s 9.4 million , with MSNBC drawing 7.6 million , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first network to project Democrat Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election early Saturday , also beat the TV competition in total viewers Saturday with 4.2 million ( as well as leading for adults 25-54 and younger viewers 18-34 ) , according to Nielsen .
MSNBC was second with 3 million , Fox News Channel third with 1.73 million .
The cable news network projected Biden as the winner over President Donald Trump at 11:24 EST Saturday and continued to hold the top ratings spots in all categories as President-elect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addressed the nation for the first time Saturday night .
More than 13.6 million viewers watched Biden and Harris ' prime time address on CNN , with MSNBC coming in second place with 9 million viewers , while Fox News was watched by 3.1 million .
Cable channels were the preferred option for those following the election , as the broadcast networks lagged behind individually and cumulatively .
Their Tuesday viewership was ABC , 6.3 million ; NBC , 5.8 million ; CBS , 4.5 million .
Fox News host Laura Ingraham ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” had its highest-rated week ever , with an average of 4.9 million viewers .
The election-night ratings showed 56.9 million watched prime-time coverage on 21 networks , down 20 % from the 71.4 million who watched prime-time results in 2016 Viewers also kept an eye on football and the pandemic-delayed season premieres of returning shows , including CBS ’ “ Young Sheldon ” and “ NCIS : Los Angeles , ” each drawing 6 million-plus viewers .
Powered by a NFL game , NBC was the week ’ s most-watched network @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 6.33 million viewers .
ABC ’ s “ World News Tonight ” led the evening newscasts , averaging 9.4 million viewers for the week .
NBC ’ s “ Nightly News ” had 8.2 million and the “ CBS Evening News ” had 5.7 million .
TV election coverage : Some magic maps sport too much red and blue in a too-close-to-call presidential race 'Big pay raise , baby ! '
: Joe Scarborough cheers sleepless Steve Kornacki after MSNBC calls it for Biden

Sara M Moniuszko and Bryan Alexander, USA TODAY

CNN tops cable ratings for total viewers during election week, Biden's speech
Show Caption Hide Caption CNN's John King may be the only one having 'fun' on Election Day CNN's John King had "fun" on election night while providing commentary for several hours using the network's interactive maps. USA TODAY
As news outlets battled for viewers in the days that followed the election, CNN came out on top with the most total viewers in the week.
CNN edged Fox News among total viewers for the week, averaging 5.9 million viewers to Fox’s 5.7 million, according to The Associated Press. But Fox News was dominant on Tuesday as President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden faced off at the polls.
Fox averaged 14.1 million viewers Tuesday to CNN’s 9.4 million, with MSNBC drawing 7.6 million, according to Nielsen figures.
CNN, who was the first network to project Democrat Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election early Saturday, also beat the TV competition in total viewers Saturday with 4.2 million (as well as leading for adults 25-54 and younger viewers 18-34), according to Nielsen. MSNBC was second with 3 million, Fox News Channel third with 1.73 million.
The cable news network projected Biden as the winner over President Donald Trump at 11:24 EST Saturday and continued to hold the top ratings spots in all categories as President-elect Biden and and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris addressed the nation for the first time Saturday night.
More than 13.6 million viewers watched Biden and Harris' prime time address on CNN, with MSNBC coming in second place with 9 million viewers, while Fox News was watched by 3.1 million.
For the week, MSNBC averaged 4.6 million viewers.
Cable channels were the preferred option for those following the election, as the broadcast networks lagged behind individually and cumulatively. Their Tuesday viewership was ABC, 6.3 million; NBC, 5.8 million; CBS, 4.5 million.
Fox News host Laura Ingraham’s show, “The Ingraham Angle,” had its highest-rated week ever, with an average of 4.9 million viewers.
The election-night ratings showed 56.9 million watched prime-time coverage on 21 networks, down 20% from the 71.4 million who watched prime-time results in 2016
Viewers also kept an eye on football and the pandemic-delayed season premieres of returning shows, including CBS’ “Young Sheldon” and “NCIS: Los Angeles,” each drawing 6 million-plus viewers.
Powered by a NFL game, NBC was the week’s most-watched network in prime time, reaching an average of 6.33 million viewers.
ABC’s “World News Tonight” led the evening newscasts, averaging 9.4 million viewers for the week. NBC’s “Nightly News” had 8.2 million and the “CBS Evening News” had 5.7 million.
Contributing: The Associated Press; Bryan Alexander, USA TODAY
TV election coverage: Some magic maps sport too much red and blue in a too-close-to-call presidential race
'Big pay raise, baby!': Joe Scarborough cheers sleepless Steve Kornacki after MSNBC calls it for Biden


usatoday--2020-11-11--Veterans Day 2020 freebies: Where veterans, military can eat free, get a free haircut and find deals

Restaurants are n't the only businesses showering veterans and active military with freebies and deals this Veterans Day .
Businesses across the nation are offering services – everything from free haircuts , car washes to flu shots .
Some retailers including Target and Under Armour also are offering discounts for veterans and military a discount .
Veterans Day marks the date when Germany and the Allies signed a 1918 agreement to end World War I hostilities .
The fighting ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month , according to the Department of Veterans Affairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day in 1919 .
Save better , spend better : Money tips and advice delivered right to your inbox .
Sign up here Veterans Day 2020 : What 's open and closed on Veterans Day ?
Most banks are closed while stock market , stores , restaurants open Proof of service such as a military ID is typically required and a few businesses will allow dressing in uniform as a form of identification .
Discharge papers , VA cards and veteran organization membership cards also can be used to prove service at most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free access to national parks and other public lands to veterans and Gold Star families starting on Veterans Day , the Department of the Interior said .
The department also waived park entrance fees for fifth-graders and their families who did n't get to use a pass intended for fourth-grade students when many national parks were closed in the spring because of the coronavirus pandemic .
The waiver starts immediately and extends through the end of August 2021 .
And regardless of whether you 're a veteran or are active military , Dunkin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its DD Perks loyalty members for Free Coffee Wednesday .
On Wednesdays through Dec. 23 , get a free medium hot or iced coffee .
No purchase is required .
Insure your turkey for holiday fails ?
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Check with your closest location to confirm participation .
Autobell Car Wash : Free `` Ride-Thru wash '' for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No ID required .
Car wash : Veterans and active military can get a free car wash at participating locations nationwide Wednesday .
Find locations at www.graceforvets.org .
Also , Sheetz locations with car washes will also offer free car washes Wednesday .
Great Clips : Free haircut Wednesday for veterans and active duty or pick up a free haircut card .
Also , non-veterans who get a haircut Wednesday get a free haircut card to give to a veteran .
Hair Cuttery : Through Nov. 15 , veterans get a 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service for a week .
Sport Clips : Free haircut Wednesday .
Search for participating stores and hours at www.sportclips.com .
Topgolf : Through its ongoing Heroes Program , active-duty military and veterans , get 10 % off Topgolf gameplay , 20 % discount on select monthly memberships and a 10 % discount on events .
More deals : Local businesses and smaller chains may also offer discounts and freebies Wednesday .
The following offers are available Wednesday unless otherwise noted .
Most are for dine-in only and some require a mobile app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Advantage account can link their account to the convenience store chain 's 7Rewards loyalty program to get special offers including a free cup of coffee for Veterans Day .
Learn more at www.7-eleven.com .
Applebee 's : Free meal from a special menu but offers can vary .
Beef ' O ' Brady 's : Free meal up to $ 10 .
No purchase required .
BJ ’ s Restaurant & Brewhouse : Free meal up to $ 14.95 and free Dr Pepper beverage .
Carrabba ’ s Italian Grill : Free order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ veterans , active military , police officers and firefighters with a valid ID through Wednesday .
The chain also has an ongoing 10 % discount for active and retired service members .
Cicis Pizza : Free adult buffet for veterans with military ID and a coupon posted at www.cicis.com/veteransday .
Cousins Subs : Free regular side with purchase of a 7.5-inch sub .
The side can be a free chocolate or vanilla shake or float , fries , chips or Wisconsin Cheese Curds .
D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches : 50 % off entire order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Not valid online , on lobster or gift cards .
Denny 's : Free `` Build Your Own Grand Slam '' from 5 a.m. to noon Wednesday .
Einstein Bros. Bagels : Free hot or iced medium coffee when veterans state that they are a veteran .
Freddy 's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers : Free combo meal cards for veterans and active-duty military who visit a Freddy 's location Wednesday .
The cards are good through Nov. 30 .
Golden Corral : Through Nov. 30 , Golden Corral is handing out free meal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and veterans .
The cards can be used once through May 31 for lunch or dinner Monday through Thursday .
Hooters : 10 free boneless wings with the purchase of 10 wings .
Hy-Vee : Free breakfast from 6 to 10 a.m. Kolache Factory : Free breakfast for veterans , which includes one free kolache of any kind and one cup of any size brewed coffee .
Krispy Kreme : Free doughnut of choice and small hot or iced coffee .
Landry ’ s Inc. : The company with more than 60 brands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Del Frisco ’ s Double Eagle Steakhouses , Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Rainforest Cafe – is offering military veterans and active members 20 % off Wednesday for up to four people .
Excludes Golden Nugget restaurants and McCormick & Schmick ’ s locations .
Little Caesars : Free lunch combo between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wednesday .
Logan ’ s Roadhouse : Free meal between 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday from the American Roadhouse menu .
Love 's Travel Stops and Country Stores : Purchase one roller grill item and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drink or coffee of any size for free .
Menchie 's Frozen Yogurt : First six ounces of frozen yogurt are free for veterans .
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub : Free meal from a special Veterans Day menu with the purchase of another meal and proof of service from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday .
O'Charley 's : Free meal from special menu Wednesday .
Plus , the chain has a 10 % military discount daily .
Outback Steakhouse : Free Bloomin ’ Onion and Coke product Wednesday .
Also , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offering 10 % off entire checks to all servicemen and -women , police officers , firefighters and first responders with a valid state or federal service ID .
Papa Gino 's : 50 % off whole pizzas for walk-in and carry out orders .
Pilot Flying J : Free breakfast combo , which includes coffee , for veterans and military on the Pilot Flying J app through Nov. 15 .
Red Robin : This deal starts the day after Veterans Day .
From Thursday through Nov. 30 , veterans and active military who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get a free tavern burger served with bottomless fries .
Sheetz : Free 6-inch turkey sub , a regular fountain drink and a free car wash at Sheetz locations that have car washes .
Shoney ’ s : Free breakfast bar from open to 11 a.m. Smokey Bones : Free meal from a special menu .
Plus , the chain has a 10 % military discount daily .
Sonny ’ s BBQ : Free pork sandwich Wednesday , plus service people that stop by on Veterans Day will also receive a voucher for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ redeemable with a valid military ID from Dec. 1-15 .
Starbucks : Free tall hot brewed coffee for veterans , active service members and their spouses Wednesday .
Travelcenters of America : Free meals for veterans at participating Country Pride , Iron Skillet or a TA Petro quick service restaurants .
Taco John 's : Free small beef # 1 Combo Meal .
Military personnel can redeem the offer in the Taco John ’ s app by entering the promo code VETERAN under the “ More ” tab .
TGI Fridays : Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p.m. Wawa : Free coffee of any size to veterans , active military members and their families , all day Wednesday , with no military ID required .
Wendy 's : Free small breakfast combo with valid military ID from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m .
Hours can vary by location .
Service members enrolled in the Veterans Advantage program can get a free breakfast sandwich with any breakfast purchase from Wednesday through Dec. 31 .
More deals : Local businesses and smaller chains may also offer discounts and freebies Wednesday .

Veterans Day 2020 freebies: Where veterans, military can eat free, get a free haircut and find deals Wednesday
Show Caption Hide Caption Veterans Day 2020: Restaurants offer freebies to honor military Restaurants and businesses are offering freebies for active-duty military members and vets for Veterans Day 2020. USA TODAY
Restaurants aren't the only businesses showering veterans and active military with freebies and deals this Veterans Day.
Businesses across the nation are offering services – everything from free haircuts, car washes to flu shots.
Some retailers including Target and Under Armour also are offering veterans and military members a discount Wednesday.
Veterans Day marks the date when Germany and the Allies signed a 1918 agreement to end World War I hostilities. The fighting ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. It was first recognized as Armistice Day in 1919.
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Veterans Day 2020: What's open and closed on Veterans Day? Plus, store discounts for veterans
Proof of service such as a military ID is typically required and a few businesses will allow dressing in uniform as a form of identification. Discharge papers, VA cards and veteran organization membership cards also can be used to prove service at most businesses.
The federal government will grant free access to national parks and other public lands to veterans and Gold Star families starting on Veterans Day, the Department of the Interior said.
The department also waived park entrance fees for fifth-graders and their families who didn't get to use a pass intended for fourth-grade students when many national parks were closed in the spring because of the coronavirus pandemic. The waiver starts immediately and extends through the end of August 2021.
And regardless of whether you're a veteran or are active military, Dunkin' has a freebie for all of its DD Perks loyalty members for Free Coffee Wednesday. On Wednesdays through Dec. 23, get a free medium hot or iced coffee. No purchase is required.
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Veterans Day free haircut, car wash
Some exclusions apply and offers can vary by location. Check with your closest location to confirm participation. Find additional store discounts here.
American Family Care: Free flu vaccine Wednesday for vets with proper ID.
Autobell Car Wash: Free "Ride-Thru wash" for all veterans and active military on Wednesday. No ID required.
Car wash: Veterans and active military can get a free car wash at participating locations nationwide Wednesday. Find locations at www.graceforvets.org. Also, Sheetz locations with car washes will also offer free car washes Wednesday.
Great Clips: Free haircut Wednesday for veterans and active duty or pick up a free haircut card. Also, non-veterans who get a haircut Wednesday get a free haircut card to give to a veteran.
Hair Cuttery: Through Nov. 15, veterans get a 10% discount on any haircut or salon service for a week.
Sport Clips: Free haircut Wednesday. Search for participating stores and hours at www.sportclips.com.
Topgolf: Through its ongoing Heroes Program, active-duty military and veterans, get 10% off Topgolf gameplay, 20% discount on select monthly memberships and a 10% discount on events.
More deals: Local businesses and smaller chains may also offer discounts and freebies Wednesday.
Veterans Day free food, meal deals
The following offers are available Wednesday unless otherwise noted. Most are for dine-in only and some require a mobile app.
7-Eleven: Veterans with a Veterans Advantage account can link their account to the convenience store chain's 7Rewards loyalty program to get special offers including a free cup of coffee for Veterans Day. Learn more at www.7-eleven.com.
Applebee's: Free meal from a special menu but offers can vary.
Bar Louie: Free burger or flatbread.
Beef 'O' Brady's: Free meal up to $10. No purchase required.
Ben's Soft Pretzels: Free jumbo soft pretzel.
Biggby Coffee: Free hot brewed coffee up to 24 ounces.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Free meal up to $14.95 and free Dr Pepper beverage.
Bob Evans: Free meal from a special menu.
Bonefish Grill: Ongoing 10% discount daily.
Buffalo Wild Wings: Free order of 10 boneless wings and fries.
California Pizza Kitchen: Free meal from a special menu.
Captain D's: 10% off meals for veterans.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill: 10% discount for active and retired service members.
Veterans Day created to honor war's sacrifice, as well as the living Discover the origins of Armistice Day, now Veterans Day, from Smithsonian National Museum of American History curator Frank Blazich. USA TODAY
Casey's General Store: Free coffee.
Chicken Salad Chick: Free Chick Special and regular drink.
Chili's Grill & Bar: Free meal from a special menu.
Chopt Creative Salad Co.: 30% off military discount.
Cicis Pizza: Free adult buffet for veterans with military ID and a coupon posted at www.cicis.com/veteransday.
Country Pride: Free meal for veterans Wednesday.
Cousins Subs: Free regular side with purchase of a 7.5-inch sub. The side can be a free chocolate or vanilla shake or float, fries, chips or Wisconsin Cheese Curds.
Cracker Barrel: Free slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake.
D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches: 50% off entire order Wednesday for walk-in and carry-out orders. Not valid online, on lobster or gift cards.
Denny's: Free "Build Your Own Grand Slam" from 5 a.m. to noon Wednesday.
Dickey's Barbecue Pit: Free Pulled Pork Classic Sandwich.
Dunkin': Free doughnut of your choice.
Einstein Bros. Bagels: Free hot or iced medium coffee when veterans state that they are a veteran.
We're saluting our Veterans & Active Military Service guests by sharing a sweet thank you on Veterans Day, 11/11. 🍩 If you’d like to join in, honor a hero with an e-gift card from https://t.co/JVIKFwoYKw. 🧡 Limit one per guest while supplies last. pic.twitter.com/8HSsRuOFdM — Dunkin' (@dunkindonuts) November 9, 2020
Famous Dave's: Free Lunch Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich with side.
Farmer Boys: Free Big Cheese for veterans.
Fazoli’s: Free spaghetti Wednesday.
Fogo de Chão: 50% off a veteran's meal Wednesday and 10% off for up to three guests’ meals.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: Free combo meal cards for veterans and active-duty military who visit a Freddy's location Wednesday. The cards are good through Nov. 30.
Friendly's: Free All-American meal for lunch or dinner.
Frisch's Big Boy: Free meal up to $10.
Golden Corral: Through Nov. 30, Golden Corral is handing out free meal and beverage cards to all active-duty military and veterans. The cards can be used once through May 31 for lunch or dinner Monday through Thursday.
Hooters: 10 free boneless wings with the purchase of 10 wings.
Huddle House: Free MVP Breakfast Platter.
Hy-Vee: Free breakfast from 6 to 10 a.m.
Iron Skillet: Free meal for veterans Wednesday.
Juice It Up!: Free 20-ounce classic smoothie.
Kolache Factory: Free breakfast for veterans, which includes one free kolache of any kind and one cup of any size brewed coffee.
Krispy Kreme: Free doughnut of choice and small hot or iced coffee.
Landry’s Inc.: The company with more than 60 brands – including Morton’s The Steakhouse, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouses, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Rainforest Cafe – is offering military veterans and active members 20% off Wednesday for up to four people. Excludes Golden Nugget restaurants and McCormick & Schmick’s locations.
Little Caesars: Free lunch combo between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wednesday.
Logan’s Roadhouse: Free meal between 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday from the American Roadhouse menu.
Love's Travel Stops and Country Stores: Purchase one roller grill item and get a second free and a fountain drink or coffee of any size for free.
Macaroni Grill: Free Mom's Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti.
Menchie's Frozen Yogurt: First six ounces of frozen yogurt are free for veterans.
Metro Diner: 50% off breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Mission BBQ: Free sandwich for veterans.
Nekter Juice Bar: Free 16-ounce Fresh Juice or Superfood Smoothie.
Help us spread the word. This Veterans Day, 11/11, all veterans and active military receive a free Mom's Ricotta Meatballs + Spaghetti with military ID. #MacGrillGratitude
(Excluding Puerto Rico, airport and international locations.) pic.twitter.com/7v7qpQ5Dzw — Macaroni Grill (@MacaroniGrill) November 8, 2020
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub: Free meal from a special Veterans Day menu with the purchase of another meal and proof of service from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday.
O'Charley's: Free meal from special menu Wednesday. Plus, the chain has a 10% military discount daily.
Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin’ Onion and Coke product Wednesday. Also, the chain has a daily heroes discount offering 10% off entire checks to all servicemen and -women, police officers, firefighters and first responders with a valid state or federal service ID.
Papa Gino's: 50% off whole pizzas for walk-in and carry out orders.
Pilot Flying J: Free breakfast combo, which includes coffee, for veterans and military on the Pilot Flying J app through Nov. 15.
Qdoba: 50% off any entree Wednesday.
Red Lobster: Free appetizer or dessert.
Red Robin: This deal starts the day after Veterans Day. From Thursday through Nov. 30, veterans and active military who are current Red Robin Royalty members can get a free tavern burger served with bottomless fries.
Scooter's Coffee: Free drink in any size.
Sheetz: Free 6-inch turkey sub, a regular fountain drink and a free car wash at Sheetz locations that have car washes.
Shoney’s: Free breakfast bar from open to 11 a.m.
Smashburger: Free Double Burger with any purchase.
Smokey Bones: Free meal from a special menu. Plus, the chain has a 10% military discount daily.
Veterans safely reunite with family North Carolina State Veterans Home-Salisbury made sure to take every necessary precaution for a safe and much-needed day of family visits. Militarykind, USA TODAY
Smoothie King: Free 20-ounce smoothie of choice.
Sonny’s BBQ: Free pork sandwich Wednesday, plus service people that stop by on Veterans Day will also receive a voucher for a free BBQ Egg Roll appetizer, redeemable with a valid military ID from Dec. 1-15.
Starbucks: Free tall hot brewed coffee for veterans, active service members and their spouses Wednesday.
Travelcenters of America: Free meals for veterans at participating Country Pride, Iron Skillet or a TA Petro quick service restaurants.
Taco John's: Free small beef #1 Combo Meal. Military personnel can redeem the offer in the Taco John’s app by entering the promo code VETERAN under the “More” tab.
TacoTime: Free meal up to $10.
TCBY: Free six ounces of frozen yogurt.
TGI Fridays: Free select meal from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Torchy's Tacos: Free taco and non-alcoholic beverage from a special Veterans Day menu.
We're proud to serve those who serve. This Veterans Day all military veterans, active servicemen and women can enjoy a FREE Bloomin' Onion and Coca-Cola on November 11th. pic.twitter.com/TrSxsDMrwk — Outback Steakhouse (@Outback) November 7, 2020
Twin Peaks: Free meal from a special menu at corporate locations Wednesday.
Wawa: Free coffee of any size to veterans, active military members and their families, all day Wednesday, with no military ID required.
Wendy's: Free small breakfast combo with valid military ID from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m. Hours can vary by location. Service members enrolled in VetRewards through the Veterans Advantage program can get a free breakfast sandwich with any breakfast purchase from Wednesday through Dec. 31.
Wienerschnitzel: Free Chili Dog, small fries and small Pepsi.
White Castle: Free combo meal or breakfast combo.
Yard House: Free appetizer Wednesday.
Zaxby's: Free Boneless Wings Meal with proof of military service Wednesday.
More deals: Local businesses and smaller chains may also offer discounts and freebies Wednesday.
Contributing: Ryan W. Miller, Wyatte Grantham-Philips and Curtis Tate, USA TODAY
Follow USA TODAY reporter Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko


usatoday--2020-11-11--Election 2020 live updates: Republican governors slam trump for delaying transition

USA TODAY 'S coverage of the 2020 election continues this week after Joe Biden won a bitterly fought presidential election and states work to finish counting their remaining ballots .
Be sure to refresh this page often to get the latest information on how things are going .
USA TODAY will have live election information from across the country .
Two Republican governors from traditionally Democratic-leaning states slammed President Donald Trump on Tuesday for delaying the transition to President-elect Joe Biden .
In Maryland , Gov .
Larry Hogan said there was no evidence of widespread voter fraud as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and told reporters Trump ’ s challenges to the election were “ really dangerous ” during the pandemic and economic recession .
Hogan said he had not “ seen anything that would in any way change the outcome of the election.
” “ We 've got to move on , '' said Hogan .
Hogan wrote in Ronald Reagan on his presidential ballot in 2020 and put his father , former Rep. Lawrence Hogan , on his ballot in 2016 .
And in Massachusetts , Gov .
Charlie Baker said Trump ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” and called Trump ’ s employment of the Department of Justice to investigate voting irregularities “ wildly inappropriate.
” “ I can ’ t think of a worse time to stall a transition than amid a deadly pandemic , ” he said .
Baker left his presidential ballot blank in 2020 , just as he did in 2016 .
Republican lawmakers in Congress have mostly supported Trump ’ s refusal to concede the election .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Monday that Trump was “ 100 % within his rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weigh his legal options . ''
Trump and Pence to take part in Veterans Day event while Biden meets with transition advisors President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence will appear together at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington for a Veterans Day event on Wednesday as the pair refuses to concede the presidential election to Joe Biden .
The two will appear together publicly after President-elect Biden was projected as the winner of the presidential election over the weekend .
The president has refused to concede and his allies are challenging election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fraud , despite there being no evidence of widespread wrong .
Biden will meet with transition advisors Wednesday as he continues to chart out his transition ahead of Inauguration Day on Jan. 20 .
On Tuesday , he said Trump 's unwillingness to concede is n't slowing down his transition .
`` I just think it 's an embarrassment , quite frankly , '' Biden said of Trump .
`` How can I say this tactfully ?
I think it will not help the president 's legacy . ''
Pennsylvania Secretary of State @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day The Pennsylvania Secretary of State said Tuesday that around 10,000 ballots arrived after Election Day but by Nov. 6 .
This is significant as a lawsuit from the Trump campaign criticizes the three-day extension of the deadline for receiving absentee and mail votes , from Election Day until Nov. 6 .
2020 : Was Biden 's win over Trump a landslide ?
Narrow ?
A look at previous elections That change , recommended by the secretary of state 's office and upheld by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court , is now the subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency injunction by the U.S. Supreme Court .
Even if those approximately 10,000 ballots were all rejected , Biden would still win Pennsylvania .
He is currently leading in the state by more than 47,000 votes .
Veterans Day : On Veterans Day , how President-elect Biden 's plan for the Pentagon differs from Trump Coons : GOP senators asking him to congratulate Biden for them since they ca n't publicly do so Sen. Chris Coons , D-Del.
, said Tuesday his GOP colleagues are privately asking him to congratulate Biden on winning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ publicly do so .
Coons told CNN it 's `` past time for Republican leaders to stand up and say , 'We should accept the results of this election . '
`` '' They call me to say , you know , 'Congratulations , please convey my well wishes to the President-elect , but I ca n't say that publicly yet , ' '' Coons said of his Republican colleagues , though he did n't cite any Republicans by name .
Despite passing the 270 electoral votes needed to become the 46th president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ senators are refusing to publicly acknowledge Biden as the President-Elect .

Savannah Behrmann and Sean Rossman, USA TODAY

Election 2020 live updates: Bolton says Republicans 'coddling' Trump; Georgia will do hand recount
Show Caption Hide Caption How a contentious election affects a peaceful transition of power What history has shown us about contested elections and peaceful transitions of power. Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
USA TODAY'S coverage of the 2020 election continues this week after Joe Biden won a bitterly fought presidential election and states work to finish counting their remaining ballots.
Be sure to refresh this page often to get the latest information on how things are going.
USA TODAY will have live election information from across the country.
President Donald Trump sought to clear the political air Wednesday by endorsing Ronna McDaniel for another term as chairwoman of the Republican National Committee.
"With 72 MILLION votes, we received more votes than any sitting President in U.S. history - and we will win!" tweeted Trump, who is continuing his long-shot legal challenge to the election victory by Democrat Joe Biden.
McDaniel is expected to seek a third term as party chair when the RNC meets in January. She has been helping promote Trump's lawsuits and election protests, even as many aides believe they will be unsuccessful.
I am pleased to announce that I have given my full support and endorsement to Ronna McDaniel to continue heading the Republican National Committee (RNC). With 72 MILLION votes, we received more votes than any sitting President in U.S. history - and we will win! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 11, 2020
The president's endorsement should tamp down news reports that another Trump supporter – perhaps even his son, Donald Trump Jr. – might challenge McDaniel's leadership. The younger Trump had denied any interest in running the RNC.
— David Jackson
President Donald Trump’s former national security adviser, John Bolton, said Republicans should urge the president to concede the election and accused GOP lawmakers of “coddling” Trump while he “trashes the U.S. electoral system.”
Trump has refused to concede his loss to Democrat Joe Biden, falsely suggested there was widespread fraud and directed his campaign to challenge the results in court.
In a stinging Washington Post opinion piece, Bolton said Trump has not provided any evidence to support his claims of fraud and is causing “grievous harm” to Americans’ confidence in the country’s constitutional system.
Bolton said Republicans are kowtowing to Trump because they want to win the two U.S. Senate seats in Georgia, which will be decided in a Jan. 5 runoff. But, he argued, the GOP’s refusal to stand up to Trump will do short- and long-term damage to the party.
“Coddling proponents plead that an enraged Trump will jeopardize the chances of victory in the Georgia runoffs,” he wrote. “But that is true only if party leaders do not speak up, explaining to voters what the real facts are. Do we in the GOP not trust our own base enough to absorb the truth?”
“ … The more Republican leaders kowtow, the more Trump believes he is still in control and the less likely he will do what normal presidents do: make a gracious concession speech; fully cooperate with the president-elect in a smooth transition process; and validate the election process itself by joining his successor at the Jan. 20 inauguration,” Bolton writes.
He said it’s a matter of U.S. national security to begin the transition process and said Republicans’ “passivity risks additional negative consequences for the country,” pointing to Trump’s decision to fire his Defense Secretary Mark Esper earlier this week. He said Washington is "filled with rumors" that FBI and CIA leaders are next on Trump's chopping block.
– Deirdre Shesgreen
'FRAUD' FACT CHECKS:
President-elect Joe Biden paid his respects on Veterans Day Wednesday at the Philadelphia Korean War Memorial.
Biden, along with Dr. Jill Biden, visited the memorial at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia for 15 minutes, and was accompanied by Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney.
During Biden’s visit, a local honor guard posted the colors, Private First Class Albert El offered a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. The president-elect also placed a wreath at the memorial.
More than 100 people gathered at the memorial during Biden’s visit. He did not make any public remarks but took photos with several groups of people.
“The women and men who have fought and sacrificed for our country are heroes, and the rest of us owe them an unpayable debt. They have earned our thanks and, above all, our respect," Biden said in a statement.
In his statement, Biden also paid respects to his late-son Beau, who was a major in the Delaware Army National Guard.
“We prayed every night and morning for his safety, and we missed him at every family gathering or when tucking his children in at night. It was hard. It hurt. These are challenges most American families never have to face,” Biden said.
“And yet, Jill and I were constantly in awe when visiting with wounded service members at Christmas or hosting veterans in our home for dinners, at the pride our military members and veterans feel in their service, and at their matchless sense of duty,” he added. “They are the absolute best of our country.”
– Rebecca Morin
President Donald Trump paid Veterans Day respects Wednesday with the traditional wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery, his first public event in nearly a week.
Trump, who has stayed out of the public eye while contesting Joe Biden's election, did not make remarks at the annual National Day of Observance. As rain fell, the president placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Neither Trump nor Vice President Mike Pence wore a mask. Arlington National Cemetery said in a Twitter post that "all visitors are to follow social distancing requirements and wear face coverings while on cemetery grounds. Anyone not having a face covering in their possession at cemetery entry points will not be granted access to the cemetery."
Veterans Day: On Veterans Day, how President-elect Biden's plan for the Pentagon differs from Trump
Since Election Day, aside from some weekend rounds of golf, Trump has appeared in public only twice, both angry speeches denouncing the election and pledging legal fights against the process that elected Biden.
Meanwhile, the normally outspoken Trump has spent his time inside the White House talking with aides, watching news reports, and tweeting complaints about the election.
– David Jackson
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, said Wednesday the state would conduct a hand recount of presidential election results in every county because of the close margin.
President Donald Trump’s campaign requested a hand recount Tuesday.
Rep. Doug Collins, R-Ga., who leads the campaign’s recount effort, said Tuesday the recount was necessary because of “widespread allegations of voter irregularities,” though he did not present evidence.
President-elect Joe Biden currently holds on to a roughly 14,000-vote lead in the state, or 0.3%. Under Georgia law, candidates can request a recount if the margin of victory is less than 0.5%.
"We're doing this because it's what makes the most sense with the national significance of this race and the closeness of this race," Raffensperger said after being asked whether the hand recount was being done because of the request from the Trump campaign.
The state expects to complete the recount and certify its results by Nov. 20, he said. Georgia pays for recounts.
Raffensperger applauded the Justice Department and Attorney General Barr's efforts to probe possible fraud, noting the federal government has additional resources that his office does not. "We want to make sure that the only people that vote are legal voters," he added.
He encouraged those with knowledge of any election fraud to come forward.
Georgia’s two incumbent Republican senators, Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, issued a statement Monday calling on Raffensperger to resign over his handling of the state’s close election, alleging misconduct in his election administration.
Raffensperger said in a statement, although the senators had called for him to be fired, "that is not going to happen. The voters of Georgia hired me, and the voters will be the one to fire me."
– Nicholas Wu and Christal Hayes
Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan has been reelected to his Alaska seat, holding off a challenge from Independent Al Gross.
The race was thought to be an uphill battle for Democrats, as Trump carried Alaska by nearly 15 points in 2016, but Trump’s handling of the pandemic and Sullivan’s narrow victory in 2014 put his seat on a list of potential pickups for liberals. President Donalrump was also declared the winner of the state.
The race was one of the last chances for Democrats to take one of the two wins they need in order to take control of the Senate majority. The call in Alaska means the last remaining chances lie in Georgia, where two seats are up for grabs and will be decided in runoff elections in January – leaving the Senate majority unclear for weeks. Georgia has historically been a red state but Biden is currently leading as a recount starts due to the close margin between him and Trump.
Democrats bested Republicans in Colorado, where John Hickenlooper beat Republican Sen. Cory Gardner, and in Arizona, where Sen. Martha McSally was defeated by Democrat Mark Kelly. But the party faced a setback in Alabama, where Republicans captured the Senate seat held by Sen. Doug Jones and continued to see losses across the country, including in states where Democrats were polling much better than incumbent Republicans.
– Christal Hayes
Two Republican governors from traditionally Democratic-leaning states slammed President Donald Trump on Tuesday for delaying the transition to President-elect Joe Biden.
In Maryland, Gov. Larry Hogan said there was no evidence of widespread voter fraud as the president and his allies have alleged, and told reporters Trump’s challenges to the election were “really dangerous” during the pandemic and economic recession.
Hogan said he had not “seen anything that would in any way change the outcome of the election.”
“We've got to move on," said Hogan.
Hogan wrote in Ronald Reagan on his presidential ballot in 2020 and put his father, former Rep. Lawrence Hogan, on his ballot in 2016.
And in Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker said Trump’s allegations of voter fraud were “baseless,” and called Trump’s employment of the Department of Justice to investigate voting irregularities “wildly inappropriate.”
“I can’t think of a worse time to stall a transition than amid a deadly pandemic,” he said.
Baker left his presidential ballot blank in 2020, just as he did in 2016.
Republican lawmakers in Congress have mostly supported Trump’s refusal to concede the election. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Monday that Trump was “100% within his rights to look into allegations of irregularities and weigh his legal options."
– Nicholas Wu
President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence will appear together at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington for a Veterans Day event on Wednesday as the pair refuses to concede the presidential election to Joe Biden.
The two will appear together publicly after President-elect Biden was projected as the winner of the presidential election over the weekend. The president has refused to concede and his allies are challenging election results in key swing states, claiming fraud, despite there being no evidence of widespread wrong.
Biden will meet with transition advisors Wednesday as he continues to chart out his transition ahead of Inauguration Day on Jan. 20. On Tuesday, he said Trump's unwillingness to concede isn't slowing down his transition.
"I just think it's an embarrassment, quite frankly," Biden said of Trump. "How can I say this tactfully? I think it will not help the president's legacy."
– Sean Rossman
The Pennsylvania Secretary of State said Tuesday that around 10,000 ballots arrived after Election Day but by Nov. 6.
This is significant as a lawsuit from the Trump campaign criticizes the three-day extension of the deadline for receiving absentee and mail votes, from Election Day until Nov. 6.
2020: Was Biden's win over Trump a landslide? Narrow? A look at previous elections
That change, recommended by the secretary of state's office and upheld by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, is now the subject of a state GOP request for an emergency injunction by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Even if those approximately 10,000 ballots were all rejected, Biden would still win Pennsylvania. He is currently leading in the state by more than 47,000 votes.
– Savannah Behrmann
Veterans Day: On Veterans Day, how President-elect Biden's plan for the Pentagon differs from Trump
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., said Tuesday his GOP colleagues are privately asking him to congratulate Biden on winning the election, because they can't publicly do so.
Coons told CNN it's "past time for Republican leaders to stand up and say, 'We should accept the results of this election.' "
"They call me to say, you know, 'Congratulations, please convey my well wishes to the President-elect, but I can't say that publicly yet,'" Coons said of his Republican colleagues, though he didn't cite any Republicans by name.
Despite passing the 270 electoral votes needed to become the 46th president of the United States, most GOP senators are refusing to publicly acknowledge Biden as the President-Elect.
– Savannah Behrmann
Bill Barr: Attorney General William Barr's election fraud memo brings new storm to Justice Department


usatoday--2020-11-11--President-elect Biden says 'it's an embarrassment' that President Trump isn't conceding

President-elect Biden says 'it 's an embarrassment ' that President Trump is n't conceding President-elect Joe Biden says 'it 's @ @ @ @ @ Donald Trump is still refusing to concede the presidential race .

'Its an embarrassment:' President-elect Biden on Trump not conceding
President-elect Joe Biden says 'it's an embarrassment' that President Donald Trump is still refusing to concede the presidential race.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-11-11--Equality Act hangs in the balance as Democrats falter in Senate races

This story was published in partnership with The 19th , a nonprofit , nonpartisan newsroom reporting on gender , politics and policy .
On May 14 , 1974 , Rep. Bella Abzug , a feminist icon in the women ’ s rights movement , introduced one of the most important pieces of civil rights legislation ever ignored .
It had just one co-sponsor .
The 10-page bill never moved out of committee .
Had it passed , it would have amended the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation .
It was called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s modern iteration moved closer to passage with Joe Biden ’ s projected win on Nov. 7 .
But maybe not close enough .
Biden has vowed to pass the Equality Act within his first 100 days in office , an unexpected commitment as the country battles the coronavirus pandemic .
To do that , however , he will need the backing of a sharply partisan Senate .
The bill easily cleared the Democrat-dominated House last year .
Its chances of surviving the Senate , where it looks like Republicans will maintain control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incoming executive director of the National LGBTQ Task Force , said that LGBTQ policy has long lagged behind cultural acceptance for LGBTQ people .
“ Unfortunately , I think because of that , we have not passed the Equality Act yet , ” Johnson said .
“ I think people take for granted that there are gay people on TV and queer people running for office and TV shows about trans women , that somehow we have broken the ceiling.
” On Oct. 29 , LGBTQ media organization GLAAD released new findings showing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ falsely believe it illegal to evict someone because they are LGBTQ .
Seventy-nine percent of LGBTQ people are under the same impression .
Eighty percent of straight cisgender respondents also mistakenly believed that it ’ s illegal to deny service to LGBTQ people in restaurants and bars .
“ People tend to think that things they think are wrong are also illegal , ” explained David Stacy , government affairs director for the Human Rights Campaign .
The Public Religion Research Institute reports that nationally , about 70 % of Americans support passing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ states and Washington , D.C. , have housing protections on the books that cover gender identity and sexual orientation , and 21 states and D.C. have LGBTQ public accommodation laws .
The Movement Advancement Project , an LGBTQ group that tracks protections nationwide , estimates that just under half of LGBTQ Americans live in states that shield them from being denied service in restaurants , bars and hotels .
The latest iteration of the Equality Act would change that .
It bars discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ employment , among other things .
“ It cuts off the need to continue to litigate , whether all federal sex discrimination laws provide protections to LGBTQ people , ” said Sarah Warbelow , legal director at the Human Rights Campaign .
For years , any significant gains for LGBTQ rights have been through the courts .
Democratic control of both the White House and Congress is seen as the most friendly scenario for the Equality Act .
But in 2009 and 2010 , when Democrats held a supermajority in Congress and Barack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were still no legislation passed granting civil rights to LGBTQ people .
There were small steps .
Congress repealed the military ’ s “ don ’ t ask , don ’ t tell ” policy of dismissing openly LGBTQ service members in 2010 .
Congress failed to pass federal job protections , however , and President Donald Trump ’ s transgender military took effect in 2018 .
Congress also green lit the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr .
Hate Crimes Prevention Act in 2009 , a law that many LGBTQ rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the criminal legal system wanes .
But the overturning of sodomy laws , the passage of marriage equality , nationwide employment protections — all came through the courts .
Jenny Pizer , law and policy director for Lambda Legal , said there is a reason why LGBTQ advocates invested so heavily in advancing equality through litigation .
“ Movements about the rights of a minority group , at least in the past , have depended in particular ways on court action , ” she said .
“ The courts are supposed to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights , including free speech , freedom of assembly and other freedoms guaranteed to us.
” That includes a person ’ s rights against their own government , she added .
The 1970s , which saw the introduction of the Equality Act , were not easy for LGBTQ people .
Throughout the decade , more than half of states still had sodomy laws on the books , the last of which were overturned in 2003 by the Supreme Court .
Still , LGBTQ advocates gained ground on other issues with a pace that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stonewall Rebellion — a riot against police brutality and homophobia in New York in 1969 — marked the start of the modern LGBTQ rights movement .
In 1982 , Wisconsin became the first state to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation .
In 2015 , the Supreme Court granted couples of all genders the right to marry .
In courts across the country since , transgender students like Gavin Grimm have fought and won for the right to use a restroom that aligns with their gender .
This June , the Supreme Court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discrimination .
None of those gains would match the significance of a modern-day Equality Act , advocates say , not because they aren ’ t important , but because the act rolls a patchwork of court wins into one federal law .
“ Unfortunately , I feel like we shortcut ourselves when we talk about marriage , because it ’ s all of the things that come with marriage , ” said Johnson .
“ What was underneath marriage was all the ways that LGBTQ people were actually not considered a part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by marriage , particularly in this country.
” While the Supreme Court ruled in favor of LGBTQ workplace protections in the Bostock v. Clayton County case in June , the Trump administration has shown few signs of enforcing the law .
The ruling , delivered by conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch , also came with a caveat : some employers sincerely object to hiring LGBTQ people , he said .
That statement signals that the court is eager to take up the issue of religious exemptions on LGBTQ protections , possibly rendering the ruling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that very issue , the suggestion that equality for gay and trans people in public life threatens religious freedom , that LGBTQ rights advocates have been unable to overcome in securing congressional support for the Equality Act , said Johnson .
“ I don ’ t know , somehow we became the anti-Christ , ” Johnson said , laughing .
“ But I think it becomes really powerful to have progressive or even moderate religious leaders who can speak to the importance of civil rights for queer people and talk about this as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite their faith , but because of their faith.
” Data increasingly shows that Republican voters back LGBTQ equality .
The Human Rights Campaign polled voters in swing states and found that even among Trump voters , the majority of Americans backed transgender access to health care .
Still , many Republican lawmakers who say they back equality for marginalized groups see LGBTQ rights in particular as inevitably at odds with religious liberty .
As long as that ’ s the case , the votes for the bill just don ’ t add @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass .
“ We feel like if we brought the bill to the floor , even in the current senate , we could get the votes to get to 51 , ” said Stacy .
“ Whether we can get 60 is a different question .
”

Equality Act hangs in the balance as Democrats falter in Senate races
This story was published in partnership with The 19th, a nonprofit, nonpartisan newsroom reporting on gender, politics and policy.
On May 14, 1974, Rep. Bella Abzug, a feminist icon in the women’s rights movement, introduced one of the most important pieces of civil rights legislation ever ignored. It had just one co-sponsor.
The 10-page bill never moved out of committee. Had it passed, it would have amended the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. It was called the Equality Act.
The bill’s modern iteration moved closer to passage with Joe Biden’s projected win on Nov. 7. But maybe not close enough.
Biden has vowed to pass the Equality Act within his first 100 days in office, an unexpected commitment as the country battles the coronavirus pandemic. To do that, however, he will need the backing of a sharply partisan Senate. The bill easily cleared the Democrat-dominated House last year. Its chances of surviving the Senate, where it looks like Republicans will maintain control, is questionable.
Kierra Johnson, incoming executive director of the National LGBTQ Task Force, said that LGBTQ policy has long lagged behind cultural acceptance for LGBTQ people.
“Unfortunately, I think because of that, we have not passed the Equality Act yet,” Johnson said. “I think people take for granted that there are gay people on TV and queer people running for office and TV shows about trans women, that somehow we have broken the ceiling.”
On Oct. 29, LGBTQ media organization GLAAD released new findings showing that 89% of straight cisgender Americans falsely believe it illegal to evict someone because they are LGBTQ. Seventy-nine percent of LGBTQ people are under the same impression. Eighty percent of straight cisgender respondents also mistakenly believed that it’s illegal to deny service to LGBTQ people in restaurants and bars.
“People tend to think that things they think are wrong are also illegal,” explained David Stacy, government affairs director for the Human Rights Campaign.
The Public Religion Research Institute reports that nationally, about 70% of Americans support passing LGBTQ nondiscrimination protections.
But just 22 states and Washington, D.C., have housing protections on the books that cover gender identity and sexual orientation, and 21 states and D.C. have LGBTQ public accommodation laws. The Movement Advancement Project, an LGBTQ group that tracks protections nationwide, estimates that just under half of LGBTQ Americans live in states that shield them from being denied service in restaurants, bars and hotels.
The latest iteration of the Equality Act would change that. It bars discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity in housing, public accommodations, education and employment, among other things.
“It cuts off the need to continue to litigate, whether all federal sex discrimination laws provide protections to LGBTQ people,” said Sarah Warbelow, legal director at the Human Rights Campaign.
For years, any significant gains for LGBTQ rights have been through the courts.
Democratic control of both the White House and Congress is seen as the most friendly scenario for the Equality Act. But in 2009 and 2010, when Democrats held a supermajority in Congress and Barack Obama was in the White House, there was still no legislation passed granting civil rights to LGBTQ people.
There were small steps. Congress repealed the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy of dismissing openly LGBTQ service members in 2010. Congress failed to pass federal job protections, however, and President Donald Trump’s transgender military ban took effect in 2018. Congress also green-lit the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act in 2009, a law that many LGBTQ rights groups have since abandoned as faith in the criminal legal system wanes.
But the overturning of sodomy laws, the passage of marriage equality, nationwide employment protections –all came through the courts.
Jenny Pizer, law and policy director for Lambda Legal, said there is a reason why LGBTQ advocates invested so heavily in advancing equality through litigation.
“Movements about the rights of a minority group, at least in the past, have depended in particular ways on court action,” she said. “The courts are supposed to be enforcers of minority rights and other constitutional rights, including free speech, freedom of assembly and other freedoms guaranteed to us.”
That includes a person’s rights against their own government, she added.
The 1970s, which saw the introduction of the Equality Act, were not easy for LGBTQ people. Throughout the decade, more than half of states still had sodomy laws on the books, the last of which were overturned in 2003 by the Supreme Court.
Still, LGBTQ advocates gained ground on other issues with a pace that other movement leaders marveled at. The Stonewall Rebellion – a riot against police brutality and homophobia in New York in 1969 – marked the start of the modern LGBTQ rights movement. In 1982, Wisconsin became the first state to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2015, the Supreme Court granted couples of all genders the right to marry. In courts across the country since, transgender students like Gavin Grimm have fought and won for the right to use a restroom that aligns with their gender. This June, the Supreme Court ruled LGBTQ people are protected against workplace discrimination.
None of those gains would match the significance of a modern-day Equality Act, advocates say, not because they aren’t important, but because the act rolls a patchwork of court wins into one federal law.
“Unfortunately, I feel like we shortcut ourselves when we talk about marriage, because it’s all of the things that come with marriage,” Johnson said. “What was underneath marriage was all the ways that LGBTQ people were actually not considered a part of family because of how family is defined by marriage, particularly in this country.”
While the Supreme Court ruled in favor of LGBTQ workplace protections in the Bostock v. Clayton County case in June, the Trump administration has shown few signs of enforcing the law. The ruling, delivered by conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, also came with a caveat: Some employers sincerely object to hiring LGBTQ people, he said. That statement signals that the court is eager to take up the issue of religious exemptions on LGBTQ protections, possibly rendering the ruling substantially less effective.
It’s that very issue, the suggestion that equality for gay and trans people in public life threatens religious freedom, that LGBTQ rights advocates have been unable to overcome in securing congressional support for the Equality Act, said Johnson.
“I don’t know, somehow we became the anti-Christ,” Johnson said, laughing. “But I think it becomes really powerful to have progressive or even moderate religious leaders who can speak to the importance of civil rights for queer people and talk about this as not just [something] they believe despite their faith, but because of their faith.”
Data increasingly shows that Republican voters back LGBTQ equality. The Human Rights Campaign polled voters in swing states and found that even among Trump voters, the majority of Americans backed transgender access to health care. Still, many Republican lawmakers who say they back equality for marginalized groups see LGBTQ rights in particular as inevitably at odds with religious liberty.
As long as that’s the case, the votes for the bill just don’t add up to the 60 it needs to pass.
“We feel like if we brought the bill to the floor, even in the current Senate, we could get the votes to get to 51,” Stacy said. “Whether we can get 60 is a different question.”