usatoday--2020-12-18--'We just want to find him': Indiana man on autism spectrum missing after flying to New York City, fa

EVANSVILLE , Ind .
— On the evening of Dec. 9 , a friend of Becka Anderson ’ s was driving when he saw a man walking toward the airport in Evansville , Indiana .
.
It would have been quite a hike , but long strolls were nothing out of the ordinary for him .
But that evening , something was wrong .
Bill is on the autism spectrum and lives with Tourette ’ s , which can cause him to lapse into flailing arm movements and uncontrolled vocal tics .
Medication usually controls them , but he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meds .
Things were OK for a while , Becka said .
Eventually , though , his mood darkened .
He started holing up in his room , refusing to even eat with the family .
He only came out when he thought everyone was gone or asleep .
On Dec. 9 , he stepped out of the house and never came back .
His mother reported him missing the next morning .
'You need to get him out of there ' : Vermont man with autism lived in 6 facilities in one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her about what he saw .
If that really was Bill , that was the last time anyone connected to the family saw him in Indiana .
They ’ ve since learned he flew to New York City , landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport around 8 a.m. Dec. 10 .
His bank card was subsequently used near Long Island .
But they don ’ t know where he is — or who he might be with .
Bill ’ s disappearance is the culmination of a tough stretch for him , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was trying to control him when he received a court-appointed guardian , and Becka believes he ’ d been wiring money to someone he met online .
He was also buying slews of gift cards for things he never used , such as Google Play .
“ We just want to find him , bring him back to Indiana , and get him the help and medical attention that he needs , ” she said .
“ He 's a really funny , kind man when he 's properly medicated.
” Bill stands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pounds .
He has brown hair and brown eyes and was last seen wearing khaki cargo pants , a brown long-sleeved shirt and boots – although he could have easily changed in the days since he left home .
The family asks anyone who might see Bill to avoid approaching him and call police instead .
A flyer posted to Facebook by the AWARE Foundation – a national nonprofit that raises awareness about missing persons – warns that Bill might be a danger to himself or others .
The family discovered he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guardian went to the Evansville airport with court documents in hand , Becka said .
But narrowing the search down to a giant city like New York isn ’ t really narrowing it at all .
The receipts from his bank card are frustratingly vague , too .
One just reads “ TAXI.
” Before his disappearance , Bill was a beloved member of the community .
Last month , a local news station named him their “ Hometown Hero ” for the week of Thanksgiving thanks to his work with Goodwill .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Anderson told the station at the time .
“ The sky ’ s the limit .
And I ’ m going to break that limit .
”

'We just want to find him': Indiana man on autism spectrum missing after flying to New York City, family says
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — On the evening of Dec. 9, a friend of Becka Anderson’s was driving when he saw a man walking toward the airport in Evansville, Indiana. .
It looked a lot like William “Bill” Anderson, Becka’s 22-year-old son.
It would have been quite a hike, but long strolls were nothing out of the ordinary for him.
But that evening, something was wrong. Bill is on the autism spectrum and lives with Tourette’s, which can cause him to lapse into flailing arm movements and uncontrolled vocal tics. Medication usually controls them, but he’d recently decided to stop taking his meds.
Things were OK for a while, Becka said. Eventually, though, his mood darkened.
He started holing up in his room, refusing to even eat with the family. He only came out when he thought everyone was gone or asleep. On Dec. 9, he stepped out of the house and never came back. His mother reported him missing the next morning.
'You need to get him out of there': Vermont man with autism lived in 6 facilities in one year
That's when her friend told her about what he saw. If that really was Bill, that was the last time anyone connected to the family saw him in Indiana.
They’ve since learned he flew to New York City, landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport around 8 a.m. Dec. 10. His bank card was subsequently used near Long Island. But they don’t know where he is — or who he might be with.
Bill’s disappearance is the culmination of a tough stretch for him, Becka said. He thought his family was trying to control him when he received a court-appointed guardian, and Becka believes he’d been wiring money to someone he met online.
He was also buying slews of gift cards for things he never used, such as Google Play.
“We just want to find him, bring him back to Indiana, and get him the help and medical attention that he needs,” she said. “He's a really funny, kind man when he's properly medicated.”
Bill stands about 6 feet tall and weighs 150 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes and was last seen wearing khaki cargo pants, a brown long-sleeved shirt and boots – although he could have easily changed in the days since he left home.
The family asks anyone who might see Bill to avoid approaching him and call police instead. A flyer posted to Facebook by the AWARE Foundation – a national nonprofit that raises awareness about missing persons – warns that Bill might be a danger to himself or others.
The family discovered he’d flown to New York when his guardian went to the Evansville airport with court documents in hand, Becka said.
But narrowing the search down to a giant city like New York isn’t really narrowing it at all. The receipts from his bank card are frustratingly vague, too. One just reads “TAXI.”
Before his disappearance, Bill was a beloved member of the community. Last month, a local news station named him their “Hometown Hero” for the week of Thanksgiving thanks to his work with Goodwill.
“I only go up from here,” Anderson told the station at the time. “The sky’s the limit. And I’m going to break that limit.”
Follow Jon Webb on Twitter: @JonAdamWebb


usatoday--2020-12-18--Supreme Court denies religious school challenge to Kentucky's expiring COVID-19 restrictions

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court ruled Thursday that Kentucky can force parochial as well as public schools to close temporarily because of the coronavirus pandemic , but only because those restrictions are set to expire early next year .
Gov .
Andrew Beshear ordered all public and private K-12 schools closed for in-person instruction beginning Nov. 23 , limiting them to remote or virtual learning .
The order allowed elementary schools that are not in hard-hit areas to reopen Dec. 7 but kept middle and high schools closed until Jan. 4 .
Because the schools begin a holiday recess Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ religious schools be allowed to open now .
Instead , they denied a challenge from the state 's Republican attorney general and a religious school that argued the closings violated the Constitution 's promise of freedom of religion .
`` We deny the application without prejudice to the applicants or other parties seeking a new preliminary injunction if the governor issues a school-closing order that applies in the new year , '' the court said in an unsigned order .
Conservative Associate Justices Neil Gorsuch and Samuel Alito dissented publicly .
Gorsuch said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assertion that the executive orders `` discriminate against religion . ''
None of the court 's other justices announced their votes .
Noting the high court only last month ruled that New York could not severely limit religious worship during the pandemic , Gorsuch wrote , `` I would not leave in place yet another potentially unconstitutional decree , even for the next few weeks . ''
Since the COVID-19 virus first led states to implement restrictions in March , the nation 's highest court has weighed in on policies affecting religious services @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the administration of elections .
This was the first time it dealt specifically on education .
In recent weeks , the court 's conservatives freed churches , synagogues and mosques from strict attendance limits imposed by Democratic governors in New York and , by extension , California , Colorado and New Jersey .
The order from Beshear , a Democrat , was challenged by Republican state Attorney General Daniel Cameron and a religious school , Danville Christian Academy .
They won their case in federal district court , but the U.S. Court of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beshear was within his rights to treat all schools equally .
More : Supreme Court blocks strict COVID-19 restrictions on New York houses of worship The challengers told the Supreme Court in legal papers that beyond schools , only bars and restaurants in Kentucky were forced to close indoors .
In contrast , offices , theaters , fitness centers , wedding venues , bowling alleys , daycare centers , preschools , colleges and universities were allowed to remain open .
`` In Kentucky , one can catch a matinee at the movie theater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the gym , bet at a gambling parlor , shop , go to work , cheer on the ( University of Kentucky ) Wildcats or the ( University of Louisville ) Cardinals , and attend a wedding , '' they wrote .
`` But all of Kentucky 's religious schools are shuttered . ''
Their cause won support from 38 Republican U.S. senators who told the court that state governors `` have restricted American freedoms in ways previously seen only in dystopian fiction – including by shutting down religious gatherings of all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activities to continue unabated . ''
In response , private attorneys representing the governor said the complaint does not cite any scientific or public health evidence to back up its comparisons .
`` With respect , nobody – not an elected official , not a public health expert , and not a court – should make life-or-death public policy decisions on the basis of such purely anecdotal , unscientific , and faulty reasoning about the spread of COVID-19 , '' they said .
Steven Stack , the governor 's public health expert , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because `` places where people congregate near each other indoors for extended periods of time ( more than 15 minutes ) appear to be the location most associated with the spread of COVID-19 , especially if people are not wearing masks . ''

Supreme Court denies religious school challenge to Kentucky's expiring COVID-19 restrictions
Show Caption Hide Caption Teachers dying as the virus surges nationwide The American Federation of Teachers says hundreds of school employees have died as the virus surges nationwide. (Nov. 18) AP
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court ruled Thursday that Kentucky can force parochial as well as public schools to close temporarily because of the coronavirus pandemic, but only because those restrictions are set to expire early next year.
Gov. Andrew Beshear ordered all public and private K-12 schools closed for in-person instruction beginning Nov. 23, limiting them to remote or virtual learning. The order allowed elementary schools that are not in hard-hit areas to reopen Dec. 7 but kept middle and high schools closed until Jan. 4.
Because the schools begin a holiday recess Friday, the justices did not insist that religious schools be allowed to open now. Instead, they denied a challenge from the state's Republican attorney general and a religious school that argued the closings violated the Constitution's promise of freedom of religion.
"We deny the application without prejudice to the applicants or other parties seeking a new preliminary injunction if the governor issues a school-closing order that applies in the new year," the court said in an unsigned order.
More: Supreme Court continues to block state COVID-19 restrictions on religious gatherings
Conservative Associate Justices Neil Gorsuch and Samuel Alito dissented publicly. Gorsuch said the challengers deserve an answer to their assertion that the executive orders "discriminate against religion." None of the court's other justices announced their votes.
Noting the high court only last month ruled that New York could not severely limit religious worship during the pandemic, Gorsuch wrote, "I would not leave in place yet another potentially unconstitutional decree, even for the next few weeks."
Since the COVID-19 virus first led states to implement restrictions in March, the nation's highest court has weighed in on policies affecting religious services, retail shopping, prison housing and the administration of elections. This was the first time it dealt specifically on education.
In recent weeks, the court's conservatives freed churches, synagogues and mosques from strict attendance limits imposed by Democratic governors in New York and, by extension, California, Colorado and New Jersey.
More: Supreme Court grants California church's challenge to coronavirus restrictions
The order from Beshear, a Democrat, was challenged by Republican state Attorney General Daniel Cameron and a religious school, Danville Christian Academy. They won their case in federal district court, but the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit ruled that Beshear was within his rights to treat all schools equally.
More: Supreme Court blocks strict COVID-19 restrictions on New York houses of worship
The challengers told the Supreme Court in legal papers that beyond schools, only bars and restaurants in Kentucky were forced to close indoors. In contrast, offices, theaters, fitness centers, wedding venues, bowling alleys, daycare centers, preschools, colleges and universities were allowed to remain open.
"In Kentucky, one can catch a matinee at the movie theater, tour a distillery, work out at the gym, bet at a gambling parlor, shop, go to work, cheer on the (University of Kentucky) Wildcats or the (University of Louisville) Cardinals, and attend a wedding," they wrote. "But all of Kentucky's religious schools are shuttered."
Their cause won support from 38 Republican U.S. senators who told the court that state governors "have restricted American freedoms in ways previously seen only in dystopian fiction – including by shutting down religious gatherings of all kinds, while inexplicably allowing many secular activities to continue unabated."
In response, private attorneys representing the governor said the complaint does not cite any scientific or public health evidence to back up its comparisons.
"With respect, nobody – not an elected official, not a public health expert, and not a court – should make life-or-death public policy decisions on the basis of such purely anecdotal, unscientific, and faulty reasoning about the spread of COVID-19," they said.
Steven Stack, the governor's public health expert, last month said the policy was justified because "places where people congregate near each other indoors for extended periods of time (more than 15 minutes) appear to be the location most associated with the spread of COVID-19, especially if people are not wearing masks."
More: Critics decry Justice Alito's 'nakedly partisan' speech on COVID-19 measures, gay marriage


usatoday--2020-12-18--Florida farm fire kills 250,000 chickens, a 'rough day' for Cal-Maine, one of country's major egg pr

A massive fire early Thursday killed as many as 250,000 chickens at a Florida farm operated by the company that sells eggs under brands including Eggland 's Best and Land O ' Lakes .
Pasco County Fire Rescue Division Chief Shawn Whited said crews arrived around 1 a.m. at the Dade City farm near Tampa , operated by Cal-Maine , one of the country 's largest egg producers .
No injuries were reported , but two of the four barns on the property were destroyed .
Cal-Maine Vice President and CFO Max Bowman told USA TODAY it was a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company was `` very thankful '' nobody was hurt in the fire .
Because the Dade City farm only contains pullets , which are young female chickens that have not started producing eggs , Bowman said there wo n't be an immediate impact on the company 's egg supply .
`` It 's always a great loss to lose any birds , '' Bowman said .
`` But given the number that we lost and given our overall footprint , it 's something that we 'll be able to manage around . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ largest egg producer and distributor of shell eggs in the U.S. , according to its website .
The Florida State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze , which resulted in an estimated $ 6 million in property damage and the value of the chickens .

Florida farm fire kills 250,000 chickens, a 'rough day' for Cal-Maine, one of country's major egg producers
Show Caption Hide Caption How to make hard-boiled eggs that are easy to peel Here's how long eggs should be on the stovetop when making hard-boiled eggs. ProblemSolved, USA TODAY
A massive fire early Thursday killed as many as 250,000 chickens at a Florida farm operated by the company that sells eggs under brands including Eggland's Best and Land O' Lakes.
Pasco County Fire Rescue Division Chief Shawn Whited said crews arrived around 1 a.m. at the Dade City farm near Tampa, operated by Cal-Maine, one of the country's largest egg producers.
No injuries were reported, but two of the four barns on the property were destroyed.
Cal-Maine Vice President and CFO Max Bowman told USA TODAY it was a "rough day," but that the company was "very thankful" nobody was hurt in the fire.
Because the Dade City farm only contains pullets, which are young female chickens that have not started producing eggs, Bowman said there won't be an immediate impact on the company's egg supply.
#LIVE: Sky10 is over Cal-Maine Foods in Dade City where fire crews are working to put out three chicken coops that are on fire. https://t.co/TOTYHhfaC3 https://t.co/D32uY2K31r — 10 Tampa Bay (@10TampaBay) December 17, 2020
"It's always a great loss to lose any birds," Bowman said. "But given the number that we lost and given our overall footprint, it's something that we'll be able to manage around."
Based in Mississippi, Cal-Maine is the largest egg producer and distributor of shell eggs in the U.S., according to its website.
The Florida State Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze, which resulted in an estimated $6 million in property damage and the value of the chickens.


usatoday--2020-12-18--A lonely 4-year-old girl in California started a 'magic' fairy garden. Then came the first note from

When the first letter arrived , Eliana Pauls reacted in wide-eyed wonder — the note was from a fairy .
It was April , and `` the sickness , '' as Eliana calls it , had upended life .
The 4-year-old girl was missing friends and neighbors .
As a distraction , she and her parents created a fairy garden near their Los Angeles home — and this note was the first sign of a fairy .
`` My name is Sapphire .
I am one of the fairies who lives in this tree .
I need your help !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give a gift , but first she needed to know the recipient was worthy .
`` Say 5 nice things to people you love ; Do 3 helpful things for someone in need ; Promise to always be kind and brave , '' the note prompted .
Also : Draw a picture of an animal .
Eliana 's mother , Emily Pauls , recalled the excitement and joy that followed that first note .
Eliana was in an extended state of wonderment , Pauls told USA TODAY .
Soon , the good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drawn and a return letter was penned and left in the garden .
True to her word , Sapphire left a present : Handcrafted dice .
One day , Eliana will learn that Kelly Kenney , who works as a photographer , made those dice and penned the first Sapphire letter — and the many more that followed .
Kenney had spotted the garden as she wrestled with her own troubles on a walk at night .
She saw a sign above the garden saying it was a 4-year-old girl 's attempt `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the magic . ''
Kenney had studied creative writing and early childhood development in college , so what happened next was just instinct , she told USA TODAY .
She “ imagined how ( Eliana ) was processing what was going on , '' how traumatizing a pandemic must be for a young girl .
At that age , many children struggle with trust , and the fairy garden creator was clearly craving companionship .
Kenney was battling personal struggles of her own .
When she introduced herself to Eliana 's mother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she saw herself as a “ lonely lady that lives down the street '' who was `` going through a little bit of a rough patch . ''
She may have struggled to get out of bed every day , but writing letters as Sapphire and brightening a young girl 's day became her favorite part of the months that followed .
Handwritten letters , small gifts , photoshopped polaroids of herself shrunken down to fairy size — it was a creative outlet for someone who had dreamed about writing a children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also helped filled a void left by the pandemic — she did n't have a preschool teacher in 2020 , but Sapphire taught her lessons about life .
One of the most memorable : Coping with change .
Eliana 's family was about to move , and Sapphire 's words help calm Eliana 's fears .
“ Sometimes we outgrow homes because we have too much love and need a place that can hold it all , '' one letter said .
The December move also provided a chance for the two to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ story as cover : Sapphire was moving too and fairies temporarily grew when they moved their belongings .
She worked with Eliana 's parents to choreograph the meeting and got tested for COVID-19 to make sure it was safe .
“ Just the way she looked at me when she first saw me will stay with me forever , ” said Kenney , who shared the story of a fairy and a little girl on Twitter in December to brighten others ' lives .
The meeting was not a goodbye .
The two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sapphire is still real to Eliana , but that wo n't always be the case .
Maybe in the future Sapphire the fairy will become Kelly the babysitter , Kenney mused .
And just like a letter from Sapphire , there 's a lesson hidden here in plain sight .
To some on the outside , Kenney 's meticulously crafted months-long fantasy might seem a chore .
To Kenney , it was a redemptive , healing act that built an unlikely friendship .
“ I just want people to realize it doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
An act of kindness may seem “ natural and easy , ” but it has the potential to be life-changing for someone else . ''
And , she added , “ She did as much for me as I did for her . ''

A lonely 4-year-old girl in California started a 'magic' fairy garden. Then came the first note from Sapphire.
When the first letter arrived, Eliana reacted in wide-eyed wonder — the note was from a fairy.
It was April, and "the sickness," as Eliana calls it, had upended life. The 4-year-old girl was missing friends and neighbors. As a distraction, she and her parents created a fairy garden near their Los Angeles home — and this note was the first sign of a fairy.
"My name is Sapphire. I am one of the fairies who lives in this tree. I need your help!" the note began.
Sapphire wanted to give a gift, but first she needed to know the recipient was worthy.
"Say 5 nice things to people you love; Do 3 helpful things for someone in need; Promise to always be kind and brave," the note prompted. Also: Draw a picture of an animal.
Eliana's mother, Emily, recalled the excitement and joy that followed that first note. Eliana was in an extended state of wonderment, the mother told USA TODAY.
Soon, the good deeds were done, the animal was drawn and a return letter was penned and left in the garden. True to her word, Sapphire left a present: Handcrafted dice.
One day, Eliana will learn that Kelly Kenney, who works as a photographer, made those dice and penned the first Sapphire letter — and the many more that followed.
Kenney had spotted the garden as she wrestled with her own troubles on a walk at night. She saw a sign above the garden saying it was a 4-year-old girl's attempt "to brighten your day; please add to the magic."
Kenney had studied creative writing and early childhood development in college, so what happened next was just instinct, she told USA TODAY.
She “imagined how (Eliana) was processing what was going on," how traumatizing a pandemic must be for a young girl. At that age, many children struggle with trust, and the fairy garden creator was clearly craving companionship.
Kenney was battling personal struggles of her own. When she introduced herself to Eliana's mother in a note following the first exchange, she saw herself as a “lonely lady that lives down the street" who was "going through a little bit of a rough patch."
She may have struggled to get out of bed every day, but writing letters as Sapphire and brightening a young girl's day became her favorite part of the months that followed.
Handwritten letters, small gifts, photoshopped polaroids of herself shrunken down to fairy size — it was a creative outlet for someone who had dreamed about writing a children's book.
For Eliana, Sapphire also helped fill a void left by the pandemic — she didn't have a preschool teacher in 2020, but Sapphire taught her lessons about life.
One of the most memorable: Coping with change.
Eliana's family was about to move, and Sapphire's words helped calm Eliana's fears.
“Sometimes we outgrow homes because we have too much love and need a place that can hold it all," one letter said.
The December move also provided a chance for the two to meet in person.
Kenney crafted a story as cover: Sapphire was moving too and fairies temporarily grew when they moved their belongings. She worked with Eliana's parents to choreograph the meeting and got tested for COVID-19 to make sure it was safe.
“Just the way she looked at me when she first saw me will stay with me forever,” said Kenney, who shared the story of a fairy and a little girl on Twitter in December to brighten others' lives.
I think everyone could use a lighthearted/happy story right now so here goes:
At the beginning of the pandemic I went through some painful personal stuff and would often go out at night for long walks because no one was around and I couldn’t sleep anyway. One night I was walking — kelly victoria 🪐 (@saysthefox) December 12, 2020
The meeting was not a goodbye. The two still exchange letters.
For now, Sapphire is still real to Eliana, but that won't always be the case. Maybe in the future Sapphire the fairy will become Kelly the babysitter, Kenney mused.
And just like a letter from Sapphire, there's a lesson hidden here in plain sight.
To some on the outside, Kenney's meticulously crafted months-long fantasy might seem a chore. To Kenney, it was a redemptive, healing act that built an unlikely friendship.
“I just want people to realize it doesn’t take that much," Kenney said. An act of kindness may seem “natural and easy,” but it has the potential to be life-changing for someone else.
And, she added, “She did as much for me as I did for her."
Contributing: Kim Strong, York (Pa.) Daily Record


usatoday--2020-12-18--Jeremy Bulloch, 'Star Wars' actor who played bounty hunter Boba Fett, dies at 75

Jeremy Bulloch , the mild-mannered British actor who portrayed feared bounty hunter Boba Fett in `` Star Wars '' films `` The Empire Strikes Back '' and `` The Return of the Jedi , '' died Thursday at 75 .
The death was confirmed on the official `` Star Wars '' Twitter account and by his longtime agent Kelly Andrews in a statement to USA TODAY .
“ We are very sad to announce the death of actor Jeremy Bulloch , earlier today , '' the statement said .
`` He died peacefully , in hospital , surrounded by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many years living with Parkinson ’ s disease.
`` The `` Star Wars '' tribute on Twitter said Bulloch `` will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character , but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy . ''
The helmeted bounty hunter Boba Fett spoke four lines of dialogue ( performed by other actors ) but became a `` Star Wars '' fan favorite flying off with a froze-in-carbonite Han Solo in 1980′s “ The Empire Strikes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Tatooine in a jet pack in 1983′s `` Return of the Jedi . ''
Mark Hamill , Luke Skywalker in `` Star Wars , '' wrote on Twitter that Bulloch `` was the quintessential English gentleman '' and `` so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him .
I will deeply miss him ( and ) am so grateful to have known him . ''
Billy Dee Williams , whose Lando Calrissian appeared in scenes with Boba Fett , tweeted , `` Today we lost the best bounty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bulloch . ''
Friend and protégé , Daniel Logan , who played Boba Fett in the prequel `` Star Wars : Episode II – Attack of the Clones '' and voiced the character in TV 's `` Star Wars : The Clone Wars '' wrote that he was in tears over Bulloch 's passing in an Instagram post featuring a picture of the two .
`` I 'll never forget all you 've taught me .
I 'll love you forever , '' Logan wrote .
`` May the force be with you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 1945 in Leicestershire , England , Bulloch landed his first big role at age 17 in the British musical film `` Summer Holiday '' which starred pop idol Cliff Richard .
His long acting career included credits for the 1977 James Bond film `` The Spy Who Loved Me '' and 1983′s `` Octopussy '' as well as the `` Doctor Who '' TV series between from 1965 to 1974 .
But Bulloch will be remembered most for playing the masked `` Star Wars '' role .
Speaking to USA TODAY in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wars '' trilogy director George Lucas would have him stand for hours in the cumbersome Boba Fett outfit which featured the famed jet pack .
`` If you leaned back slightly you could actually topple over because ( the jet pack ) was top-heavy , '' Bulloch said .
`` You put it on , you hold the gun and you could see yourself getting so weighty .
But the vanity of actors , when you looked at yourself in the mirror in the morning , I thought , 'This costume looks fantastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not acting too much portraying the mysterious character , he said .
`` There 's no point in waving a gun around and saying , ' I 'm Boba Fett . '
That 's a bit weak , '' Bulloch said .
`` The best thing to do is almost do nothing .
Less is best , really . ''
Bulloch said he had no problem being remembered as the iconic `` Star Wars '' character , despite his long career acting in other parts .
He also played two `` Star Wars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheckil in `` The Empire Strikes Back '' and Captain Jeremoch Colton in `` Revenge of the Sith . ''
`` I played Hamlet when I was 17 and everybody tries to do Shakespeare , and it was lovely .
People prefer you as Boba Fett , so that means that they prefer that I had a mask on and was n't performing on stage , '' Bullochsaid .
`` But I 've had a terrific career from the age of 12 , and I 'm still working .
You never give up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` I 'll never forget 'Star Wars . '
You ca n't .
It 's in your head probably every day , '' he said .

Jeremy Bulloch, 'Star Wars' actor who played bounty hunter Boba Fett, dies at 75
Show Caption Hide Caption Star Wars actor Jeremy Bulloch has died at 75 Jeremy Bulloch - who was known for playing Boba Fett in the original 'Star Wars' trilogy - has died at the age of 75. Bang Showbiz, Bang Showbiz
Jeremy Bulloch, the mild-mannered British actor who portrayed feared bounty hunter Boba Fett in "Star Wars" films "The Empire Strikes Back" and "The Return of the Jedi," died Thursday at 75.
"We are very sad to announce the death of actor Jeremy Bulloch," longtime agent Kelly Andrews said in a statement to USA TODAY. "He died peacefully, in hospital, surrounded by his family, from health complications following his many years living with Parkinson’s disease."
A tribute on the "Star Wars" Twitter account said Bulloch "will be remembered not only for his iconic portrayal of the legendary character, but also for his warmth and generous spirit which have become an enduring part of his rich legacy."
Jeremy Bulloch, whose unforgettable performance as notorious bounty hunter Boba Fett has captivated audiences since he first appeared in 1980's Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, has sadly passed away. pic.twitter.com/Wekhv3rxqN — Star Wars (@starwars) December 17, 2020
The helmeted bounty hunter Boba Fett spoke four lines of dialogue (performed by another actor) but became a "Star Wars" fan favorite — flying off with a froze-in-carbonite Han Solo in 1980′s “The Empire Strikes Back" and zooming around the desert of Tatooine in a jet pack in 1983′s "Return of the Jedi."
'Empire Strikes Back' 40th: Mark Hamill shares rare details from set For the 40th anniversary of "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back," Mark Hamill (aka Luke Skywalker) reveals never-seen exclusive shots to USA TODAY. USA TODAY
Mark Hamill, Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars," wrote on Twitter that Bulloch "was the quintessential English gentleman" and "so kind to everyone lucky enough to meet or work with him. I will deeply miss him (and) am so grateful to have known him."
Billy Dee Williams, whose Lando Calrissian appeared in scenes with Boba Fett, tweeted, "Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy. RIP Jeremy Bulloch."
Today we lost the best bounty hunter in the galaxy 💔RIP Jeremy Bulloch #BobaFett — Billy Dee Williams (@realbdw) December 17, 2020
Friend and protégé, Daniel Logan, who played Boba Fett in the prequel "Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones" and voiced the character in TV's "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" wrote that he was in tears over Bulloch's passing in an Instagram post featuring a picture of the two.
"I'll never forget all you've taught me. I'll love you forever," Logan wrote. "May the force be with you always."
Born on February 16, 1945 in Leicestershire, England, Bulloch landed his first big role at age 17 in the British musical film "Summer Holiday" which starred pop idol Cliff Richard.
His long acting career included credits for the 1977 James Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me" and 1983′s "Octopussy" as well as the "Doctor Who" TV series between from 1965 to 1974.
But Bulloch will be remembered most for playing the masked "Star Wars" role. Speaking to USA TODAY in 2013, Bulloch said that "Star Wars" trilogy director George Lucas would have him stand for hours in the cumbersome Boba Fett outfit which featured the famed jet pack.
"If you leaned back slightly you could actually topple over because (the jet pack) was top-heavy," Bulloch said. "But the vanity of actors, when you looked at yourself in the mirror in the morning, I thought, 'This costume looks fantastic.' "
The biggest challenge was not acting too much portraying the mysterious character, he said.
"There's no point in waving a gun around and saying, 'I'm Boba Fett.' That's a bit weak," Bulloch said. "The best thing to do is almost do nothing. Less is best, really."
In a tribute comment to StarWars.com, Lucas appreciated that restraint. "Jeremy brought the perfect combination of mystery and menace to his performance of Boba Fett, which is just what I wanted the character to convey," said Lucas.
Bulloch said he had no problem being remembered as the iconic "Star Wars" character, despite his long career acting in other parts. He also played two "Star Wars" roles without the mask, stepping in to play Imperial officer Lieutenant Sheckil in "The Empire Strikes Back" (leading captive Princess Leia through Cloud City) and Captain Jeremoch Colton in "Revenge of the Sith."
"I played Hamlet when I was 17 and everybody tries to do Shakespeare, and it was lovely. People prefer you as Boba Fett, so that means that they prefer that I had a mask on and wasn't performing on stage," Bulloch said. "I'll never forget 'Star Wars.' You can't. It's in your head probably every day."
Contributing: Brian Truitt, the Associated Press


usatoday--2020-12-17--Breonna Taylor's mom ran a full-page ad in the Washington Post calling out Biden. Here's why.

LOUISVILLE , Ky. — Breonna Taylor 's mother has called on President-elect Joe Biden to open large-scale federal investigations into the death of her daughter and other Black Americans killed by police .
`` Actions speak louder than words , '' Tamika Palmer wrote in a full-page ad in Tuesday 's Washington Post .
`` We need your actions to show that you are different than those who pay lip service to our losses while doing nothing to show that our loved ones ' lives mattered . ''
Taylor , 26 , was fatally shot March 13 by Louisville Metro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a search warrant at her apartment in Louisville , Kentucky , as part of a larger narcotics investigation .
Taylor 's boyfriend Kenneth Walker fired one shot as police used a battering ram to break in the apartment 's front door , reportedly striking Sgt .
Jonathan Mattingly in the thigh .
In return , Mattingly , Detective Myles Cosgrove and now-former Detective Brett Hankison fired 32 rounds , killing Taylor .
No officer has been charged in her death .
Taylor 's slaying — and the subsequent decision not to charge the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protests across America , which Palmer notes in her letter .
The Biden campaign 's `` stated commitment to prioritize police accountability '' prompted people to vote for the president-elect , Palmer wrote .
Now , these voters want to see his administration act , she said .
Palmer outlined steps she wants to see taken : • Appointing Department of Justice officials with a `` proven record of holding police accountable . ''
• Ordering the DOJ to re-open investigations into police violence `` not properly completed '' during the Trump administration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' into police shootings like that of Taylor , Jacob Blake in Wisconsin and Casey Goodson in Ohio .
• Launching `` robust pattern and practice investigations '' into police departments across the country that are `` known to cause harm . ''
The ad directs readers to the website bidenjusticedemands.com , which is an initiative of the Grassroots Law Project , co-founded by activist Shaun King and attorney Lee Merritt .
The website calls on Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to do `` everything in its power to bring about deep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racial justice '' and encourages visitors to sign on to the letter .
`` The people , families , and communities most harmed by all of the systems and structures of mass incarceration are also the voters that elected you , '' the website 's letter says .
`` You have promised them that you would do right by them , and we intend to work to hold you accountable for each and every one of those promises . ''
So far , more than 108,000 people have signed , including the families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Atatiana Jefferson .
Castile and Jefferson were fatally shot by police , and Arbery was shot by white men who followed him as he was jogging .
On the Biden-Harris transition website , the incoming administration says it will work with Congress to pass reforms including a national ban on chokeholds , improving oversight and accountability and creating a national police oversight commission .
During the presidential campaign , Biden called for the officers connected to Taylor 's death to be charged for their actions , and Harris pushed for a federal investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a whole .
The transition team did not immediately return a request for comment from the Louisville Courier Journal , part of the USA TODAY Network .
Their siblings were killed by police .
Now these Black women are demanding justice .
In Palmer 's letter to Biden , she notes the two spoke earlier this year , and that he assured Palmer he was `` committed to justice for Breonna . ''
`` Nothing can bring back my daughter , or the other individuals whose lives were senselessly harmed or lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We can , however , honor their legacies by holding police accountable and bringing deep change to a truly unjust system . ''
`` We fought for you , '' Palmer wrote in closing .
`` It is now your turn to fight for us . ''

Tessa Duvall, Louisville Courier Journal

Breonna Taylor's mom ran a full-page ad in the Washington Post calling out Biden. Here's why.
Show Caption Hide Caption Hundreds demand justice for Breonna at NY protest Hundreds of protesters staged a demonstration outside the Trump hotel in New York City on Saturday to demand justice for Breonna Taylor and other victims of police brutality. (Oct. 17) AP
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Breonna Taylor's mother has called on President-elect Joe Biden to open large-scale federal investigations into the death of her daughter and other Black Americans killed by police.
"Actions speak louder than words," Tamika Palmer wrote in a full-page ad in Tuesday's Washington Post. "We need your actions to show that you are different than those who pay lip service to our losses while doing nothing to show that our loved ones' lives mattered."
Taylor, 26, was fatally shot March 13 by Louisville Metro Police officers as they attempted to serve a search warrant at her apartment in Louisville, Kentucky, as part of a larger narcotics investigation.
Taylor's boyfriend Kenneth Walker fired one shot as police used a battering ram to break in the apartment's front door, reportedly striking Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly in the thigh. In return, Mattingly, Detective Myles Cosgrove and now-former Detective Brett Hankison fired 32 rounds, killing Taylor. No officer has been charged in her death.
Taylor's slaying — and the subsequent decision not to charge the officers who shot her — has ignited protests across America, which Palmer notes in her letter.
The Biden campaign's "stated commitment to prioritize police accountability" prompted people to vote for the president-elect, Palmer wrote.
Now, these voters want to see his administration act, she said.
Palmer outlined steps she wants to see taken:
Appointing Department of Justice officials with a "proven record of holding police accountable."
Ordering the DOJ to re-open investigations into police violence "not properly completed" during the Trump administration.
Ordering "large-scale federal investigations" into police shootings like that of Taylor, Jacob Blake in Wisconsin and Casey Goodson in Ohio.
Launching "robust pattern and practice investigations" into police departments across the country that are "known to cause harm."
The ad directs readers to the website bidenjusticedemands.com, which is an initiative of the Grassroots Law Project, co-founded by activist Shaun King and attorney Lee Merritt.
The website calls on Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to do "everything in its power to bring about deep systemic change on criminal, legal and racial justice" and encourages visitors to sign on to the letter.
"The people, families, and communities most harmed by all of the systems and structures of mass incarceration are also the voters that elected you," the website's letter says. "You have promised them that you would do right by them, and we intend to work to hold you accountable for each and every one of those promises."
READ: #BreonnaTaylor’s mother @TamikalPalmer911’s message to @joebiden, full page in @washingtonpost TODAY: Hold police accountable. Bring deep change to a truly unjust system. Do it now.
Read and share it: https://t.co/Uvb5P9vF9g pic.twitter.com/dj3TXYr5hl — Grassroots Law Project (@grassroots_law) December 15, 2020
So far, more than 108,000 people have signed, including the families of Ahmaud Arbery, Philando Castile and Atatiana Jefferson. Castile and Jefferson were fatally shot by police, and Arbery was shot by white men who followed him as he was jogging.
On the Biden-Harris transition website, the incoming administration says it will work with Congress to pass reforms including a national ban on chokeholds, improving oversight and accountability and creating a national police oversight commission.
During the presidential campaign, Biden called for the officers connected to Taylor's death to be charged for their actions, and Harris pushed for a federal investigation into Taylor's death and Louisville police as a whole.
The transition team did not immediately return a request for comment from the Louisville Courier Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network.
'He's still breathing': New body camera footage shows moments after Ahmaud Arbery shooting
Their siblings were killed by police. Now these Black women are demanding justice.
In Palmer's letter to Biden, she notes the two spoke earlier this year, and that he assured Palmer he was "committed to justice for Breonna."
"Nothing can bring back my daughter, or the other individuals whose lives were senselessly harmed or lost to police violence," Palmer wrote. "We can, however, honor their legacies by holding police accountable and bringing deep change to a truly unjust system."
"We fought for you," Palmer wrote in closing. "It is now your turn to fight for us."
Follow Tessa Duvall Twitter: @TessaDuvall.


usatoday--2020-12-17--Vanessa Bryant says mother is trying to extort her with lawsuit

Vanessa Bryant has accused her mother Sofia Laine of trying to `` extort a financial windfall '' from her through a `` frivolous '' and `` disgraceful '' lawsuit after the death of her husband Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna .
According to court documents obtained by USA TODAY Sports and filed Tuesday in California , Laine is seeking financial support from her daughter , alleging that she worked unpaid as a `` longtime personal assistant and nanny '' for the Bryant family .
Laine claims that prior to Kobe Bryant 's death , he promised to `` take care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest of her life . ''
People was first to report on the lawsuit .
`` Unfortunately , Kobe Bryant 's promises did not see the light of day as he is now deceased , and Vanessa Bryant took each and every step she could to void and cancel all of Kobe Bryant 's promises made to ( Laine ) , '' the complaint reads .
`` Vanessa Bryant did not intend to honor any of the Bryants ' representations , agreements and promises at any stage . ''
In statements posted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alleging she has financially supported Laine for nearly 20 years and Laine was never her or Kobe 's assistant or nanny to her children .
`` I have always been a stay-at-home mother and my husband and I were our daughters ' full-time caregivers , '' said Bryant .
`` For nearly two decades , we arranged for my mother to live in our nearby properties , at no cost to her because she had claimed that she did n't have any money to buy her own home after her divorce . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was best for her not to live in our home .
She watched our girls from time to time , just like most grandparents do .
She did not take care of business issues or expenses . ''
In her lawsuit , Laine claims she worked for more than 12 hours a day with no meal or rest break while taking care of the Bryants ' children for almost 18 years because Vanessa Bryant gave her a `` grueling schedule and detailed instructions . ''
Bryant said her mother `` only occasionally babysat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Bryant said her mother is contacting her through intermediaries demanding $ 5 million , a house and a Mercedes SUV .
`` She has no regard for how this is affecting my children and me , '' Bryant said claiming Laine `` wants to live off of my daughters and me for the rest of her life while continuing to collect monthly alimony from her ex-husband since 2004 . ''
`` My husband and I have never discouraged or kept her from providing for herself , '' said Bryant .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he would be so disappointed in her behavior and lack of empathy . ''
But after Kobe Bryant 's death , Laine said in the lawsuit , Vanessa Bryant moved her out of a house the Bryants ' owned , then moved her into an empty apartment and sold her car after saying she wanted to take it to a mechanic for scheduled maintenance .
Laine also said Vanessa Bryant `` took the malicious step to cut her own mother out of everything , including health insurance , '' even though Laine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of serious health issues , according to the lawsuit .
Laine suggested Vanessa Bryant 's actions occurred because Laine `` did not condone '' Vanessa Bryant attending social events in the evening and leaving her three children with Laine , according to the lawsuit .
Laine `` believed this was extremely inappropriate and troubling and told Vanessa Bryant that she should be home mourning the death of Kobe Bryant and their daughter , Gigi , as opposed to going out social , '' the lawsuit says .
`` Vanessa was agitated by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In relation , Vanessa Bryant embarked on a mission to cut ( Laine ) off physically and financially . ''
In March , Laine said in the lawsuit , Vanessa Bryant terminated her employment and removed her name and authorization to enter Vanessa Bryant 's home before moving to a new home and `` making it impossible for ( Laine ) to reach Vanessa Bryant and her grandchildren .
Laine said she has developed high blood pressure and is at high risk of having a stroke because of Vanessa Bryant 's treatment of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Contact Analis Bailey at aabailey @ usatoday.com or on Twitter @ analisbailey .

Vanessa Bryant says mother is trying to extort her with lawsuit
Vanessa Bryant has accused her mother Sofia Laine of trying to "extort a financial windfall" from her through a "frivolous" and "disgraceful" lawsuit after the death of her husband Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna.
According to court documents obtained by USA TODAY Sports and filed Tuesday in California, Laine is seeking financial support from her daughter, alleging that she worked unpaid as a "longtime personal assistant and nanny" for the Bryant family. Laine claims that prior to Kobe Bryant's death, he promised to "take care of" the 68-year-old for the "rest of her life."
People was first to report on the lawsuit.
"Unfortunately, Kobe Bryant's promises did not see the light of day as he is now deceased, and Vanessa Bryant took each and every step she could to void and cancel all of Kobe Bryant's promises made to (Laine)," the complaint reads. "Vanessa Bryant did not intend to honor any of the Bryants' representations, agreements and promises at any stage."
In statements posted to Instagram, Bryant denied the claims, alleging she has financially supported Laine for nearly 20 years and Laine was never her or Kobe's assistant or nanny to her children.
"I have always been a stay-at-home mother and my husband and I were our daughters' full-time caregivers," said Bryant. "For nearly two decades, we arranged for my mother to live in our nearby properties, at no cost to her because she had claimed that she didn't have any money to buy her own home after her divorce."
"My husband and I felt it was best for her not to live in our home. She watched our girls from time to time, just like most grandparents do. She did not take care of business issues or expenses."
In her lawsuit, Laine claims she worked for more than 12 hours a day with no meal or rest break while taking care of the Bryants' children for almost 18 years because Vanessa Bryant gave her a "grueling schedule and detailed instructions.'' Bryant said her mother "only occasionally babysat my older girls when they were toddlers."
Bryant said her mother is contacting her through intermediaries demanding $5 million, a house and a Mercedes SUV.
"She has no regard for how this is affecting my children and me," Bryant said claiming Laine "wants to live off of my daughters and me for the rest of her life while continuing to collect monthly alimony from her ex-husband since 2004."
"My husband and I have never discouraged or kept her from providing for herself," said Bryant. "My husband never promised my mother anything and he would be so disappointed in her behavior and lack of empathy."
But after Kobe Bryant's death, Laine said in the lawsuit, Vanessa Bryant moved her out of a house the Bryants' owned, then moved her into an empty apartment and sold her car after saying she wanted to take it to a mechanic for scheduled maintenance.
Laine also said Vanessa Bryant "took the malicious step to cut her own mother out of everything, including health insurance,'' even though Laine almost died in 2010 as a result of serious health issues, according to the lawsuit.
Laine suggested Vanessa Bryant's actions occurred because Laine "did not condone'' Vanessa Bryant attending social events in the evening and leaving her three children with Laine, according to the lawsuit.
Laine "believed this was extremely inappropriate and troubling and told Vanessa Bryant that she should be home mourning the death of Kobe Bryant and their daughter, Gigi, as opposed to going out social,'' the lawsuit says. "Vanessa was agitated by the advice (Laine) gave her. In relation, Vanessa Bryant embarked on a mission to cut (Laine) off physically and financially.''
In March, Laine said in the lawsuit, Vanessa Bryant terminated her employment and removed her name and authorization to enter Vanessa Bryant's home before moving to a new home and "making it impossible for (Laine) to reach Vanessa Bryant and her grandchildren.
Laine said she has developed high blood pressure and is at high risk of having a stroke because of Vanessa Bryant's treatment of her, according to the lawsuit.
Contact Analis Bailey at aabailey@usatoday.com or on Twitter @analisbailey.


usatoday--2020-12-17--Nordstrom is having a huge sale on face masks for adults and kids right now

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
The COVID-19 vaccine is at long last beginning to hit hospitals , but facial coverings are a safety precaution we ’ ll continue to rock into 2021 .
Per regulations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , wearing face masks is still one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus .
If you ’ re in the market for new ones that are both dependable and fashion-forward , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ options for adults and kids that just so happen to be 30 % off .
Get expert shopping advice delivered to your phone .
Sign up for text message alerts from the deal-hunting nerds at Reviewed .
There are tons of options up for grabs during this limited-time sale , which runs through Monday , December 21 , including these Nordstrom assorted adult face masks .
Once $ 25 , they fall to $ 17.50 with the price drop .
The neutral-hued collection comes with four coverings and a drawstring pouch for carrying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not medical-grade , they 're made from 100 % jersey cotton and feature a built-in filter pocket for extra protection .
They also have a solid 4.5-star rating from Nordstrom shoppers , who were happy with the comfort level , noting that they fit securely without sliding down .
Also on sale is the retailer ’ s four-pack of pleated knit face masks , which drop from $ 20 to $ 14.90 .
These patterned coverings have a slightly different construction than the set above : Instead of the classic adjustable ear loops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you to tie them behind your head for additional safety .
They also have pleating along the cotton fabric , which provides for adequate nose-to-chin covering .
This collection has garnered a 4.1-star rating from more than 30 Nordstrom customers , with one shopper describing them as “ stylish , soft and comfortable.
” What more could you ask for ?
For the little ones , these Andy & Evan assorted face masks , which also come four to a pack , are an awesome choice .
Normally $ 19.95 , you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thanks to the 30 % discount .
Available in four fun blue patterns , these classic coverings are recommended for ages 2 to 7 .
They feature a double-layered interior and a built-in filter pocket with an ear loop fastening that buyers say is comfortable and well-fit for kiddos .
As usual , online Nordstrom orders come with free shipping and returns .
What ’ s more , members of The Nordy Club can enjoy the retailer ’ s holiday bonus point event ( sign up for free here ! )
to receive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cardholders will earn 10 points per dollar ) .
Looking for even cheaper face mask options ?
In addition to the tons of styles found here , which start as low as $ 4.20 , you can also head over to Old Navy , where select styles are marked down as low as $ 4.97 from their usual $ 12.50—the retailer 's facial coverings received top marks from us in testing , with the triple-layer cloth face masks earning the title as our best value pick .
Shop Face Masks from $ 4.20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 11 ) Need help finding products ?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter .
It ’ s free and you can unsubscribe at any time .
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

Nordstrom is having a huge sale on face masks for adults and kids right now
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
The COVID-19 vaccine is at long last beginning to hit hospitals, but facial coverings are a safety precaution we’ll continue to rock into 2021. Per regulations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), wearing face masks is still one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus. If you’re in the market for new ones that are both dependable and fashion-forward, Nordstrom has you covered—literally—with a slew of options for adults and kids that just so happen to be 30% off.
Get expert shopping advice delivered to your phone. Sign up for text message alerts from the deal-hunting nerds at Reviewed.
There are tons of options up for grabs during this limited-time sale, which runs through Monday, December 21, including these Nordstrom assorted adult face masks. Once $25, they fall to $17.50 with the price drop. The neutral-hued collection comes with four coverings and a drawstring pouch for carrying them on-the-go. While they’re not medical-grade, they're made from 100% jersey cotton and feature a built-in filter pocket for extra protection. They also have a solid 4.5-star rating from Nordstrom shoppers, who were happy with the comfort level, noting that they fit securely without sliding down.
Also on sale is the retailer’s four-pack of pleated knit face masks, which drop from $20 to $14.90. These patterned coverings have a slightly different construction than the set above: Instead of the classic adjustable ear loops, they feature sliding straps that allow you to tie them behind your head for additional safety. They also have pleating along the cotton fabric, which provides for adequate nose-to-chin covering. This collection has garnered a 4.1-star rating from more than 30 Nordstrom customers, with one shopper describing them as “stylish, soft and comfortable.” What more could you ask for?
For the little ones, these Andy & Evan assorted face masks, which also come four to a pack, are an awesome choice. Normally $19.95, you can currently scoop them up for $11.96 thanks to the 30% discount. Available in four fun blue patterns, these classic coverings are recommended for ages 2 to 7. They feature a double-layered interior and a built-in filter pocket with an ear loop fastening that buyers say is comfortable and well-fit for kiddos.
As usual, online Nordstrom orders come with free shipping and returns. What’s more, members of The Nordy Club can enjoy the retailer’s holiday bonus point event (sign up for free here!) to receive five points for every dollar spent (cardholders will earn 10 points per dollar).
Looking for even cheaper face mask options? In addition to the tons of styles found here, which start as low as $4.20, you can also head over to Old Navy, where select styles are marked down as low as $4.97 from their usual $12.50—the retailer's facial coverings received top marks from us in testing, with the triple-layer cloth face masks earning the title as our best value pick.
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


usatoday--2020-12-17--LSU official named in USA TODAY reports resigns from presidential search committee

A top athletics department official has resigned from the search committee for the new Louisiana State University president , two days after USA TODAY reported he routinely skirted school policy on handling sexual misconduct complaints .
Verge Ausberry submitted his resignation to James Williams , chair of the search committee , following the committee ’ s meeting Thursday afternoon .
It is “ effective immediately.
” “ I appreciate having had the opportunity to participate and , obviously , remain completely supportive of your most vital efforts , and will provide any outside assistance you might find appropriate , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , wrote .
LSU is looking for a new president after F. King Alexander took a similar role at Oregon State this year .
Whoever replaces Alexander will be tasked with implementing any reforms of LSU 's Title IX process that are deemed necessary .
An outside law firm , Husch Blackwell , is currently reviewing LSU ’ s policies and procedures , as well as previous cases , to determine any wrongdoing .
Title IX is the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education .
LATEST : LSU knew in 2018 that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It did nothing .
LSU hired Husch Blackwell following a USA TODAY investigation that found officials in the school ’ s athletic department and broader administration repeatedly ignored complaints against abusers , denied victims ’ requests for protections and subjected them to further harm by known perpetrators .
On Tuesday , USA TODAY published a report about a 2018 Title IX investigation that showed Ausberry and two other athletic department administrators were keeping allegations of sexual misconduct and dating violence in house .
Ausberry and football recruiting director Sharon Lewis told LSU ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was their practice to steer allegations against athletes to Miriam Segar , a senior associate athletic director , instead of reporting them directly to the Title IX coordinator , as LSU policy requires .
Furthermore , athletic department officials are prohibited from being involved in the handling or investigation of complaints against athletes .
Ausberry also told the investigator that when a female student came to him because she had been abused by football player Drake Davis , he told her he “ didn ’ t want to hear anymore ” and to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never returning the student ’ s call .
The investigator found Lewis responsible for violating LSU ’ s Title IX policy because she had failed to report the allegations against Davis to anyone when she learned about them in 2016 , the report shows .
The report does not say whether Ausberry or Segar were investigated regarding their admissions they were not following Title IX policy .
LSU spokesman Jim Sabourin declined to answer whether an investigation had ever occurred but said that neither was found responsible .
USA TODAY has reported previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials who had first-hand knowledge in April 2018 that Davis had physically assaulted another woman , former LSU women ’ s tennis player Jade Lewis .
Davis texted Ausberry on April 14 , 2018 , and admitted that he had punched Lewis in the stomach , according to police records .
But Ausberry never reported the incident to the Title IX office or police .
The text message was only found after LSU police detectives obtained a search warrant following Davis ’ August 2018 arrest for felony dating violence .
By then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she told police and USA TODAY .

Kenny Jacoby, Nancy Armour and Jessica Luther, USA TODAY

LSU official named in USA TODAY reports resigns from presidential search committee
Show Caption Hide Caption LSU students share stories of title IX cases ignored by LSU officials A USA TODAY investigation found a pattern of LSU officials ignoring complaints against athletes and non-athletes alike. Allison Zaucha, USA TODAY
A top athletics department official has resigned from the search committee for the new Louisiana State University president, two days after USA TODAY reported he routinely skirted school policy on handling sexual misconduct complaints.
Verge Ausberry submitted his resignation to James Williams, chair of the search committee, following the committee’s meeting Thursday afternoon. It is “effective immediately.”
“I appreciate having had the opportunity to participate and, obviously, remain completely supportive of your most vital efforts, and will provide any outside assistance you might find appropriate,” Ausberry, the executive deputy athletic director, wrote.
LSU is looking for a new president after F. King Alexander took a similar role at Oregon State this year. Whoever replaces Alexander will be tasked with implementing any reforms of LSU's Title IX process that are deemed necessary. An outside law firm, Husch Blackwell, is currently reviewing LSU’s policies and procedures, as well as previous cases, to determine any wrongdoing.
Title IX is the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education.
SPECIAL REPORT: LSU mishandled sexual misconduct complaints against students, including top athletes
LATEST: LSU knew in 2018 that officials kept allegations against athletes in-house. It did nothing.
LSU hired Husch Blackwell following a USA TODAY investigation that found officials in the school’s athletic department and broader administration repeatedly ignored complaints against abusers, denied victims’ requests for protections and subjected them to further harm by known perpetrators.
On Tuesday, USA TODAY published a report about a 2018 Title IX investigation that showed Ausberry and two other athletic department administrators were keeping allegations of sexual misconduct and dating violence in house. Ausberry and football recruiting director Sharon Lewis told LSU’s lead Title IX investigator that it was their practice to steer allegations against athletes to Miriam Segar, a senior associate athletic director, instead of reporting them directly to the Title IX coordinator, as LSU policy requires.
Furthermore, athletic department officials are prohibited from being involved in the handling or investigation of complaints against athletes.
Ausberry also told the investigator that when a female student came to him because she had been abused by football player Drake Davis, he told her he “didn’t want to hear anymore” and to talk instead to Segar, who acknowledged never returning the student’s call.
The investigator found Lewis responsible for violating LSU’s Title IX policy because she had failed to report the allegations against Davis to anyone when she learned about them in 2016, the report shows.
The report does not say whether Ausberry or Segar were investigated regarding their admissions they were not following Title IX policy. LSU spokesman Jim Sabourin declined to answer whether an investigation had ever occurred but said that neither was found responsible.
USA TODAY has reported previously that Ausberry also was among seven LSU officials who had first-hand knowledge in April 2018 that Davis had physically assaulted another woman, former LSU women’s tennis player Jade Lewis.
Davis texted Ausberry on April 14, 2018, and admitted that he had punched Lewis in the stomach, according to police records. But Ausberry never reported the incident to the Title IX office or police.
The text message was only found after LSU police detectives obtained a search warrant following Davis’ August 2018 arrest for felony dating violence. By then, Lewis had been assaulted several more times, she told police and USA TODAY.


usatoday--2020-12-17--8 sports teams that reinvented their insensitive or hapless mascots

8 sports teams that reinvented their insensitive or hapless mascots Explore how and why some college and pro teams finally @ @ @ @ @ name or logo .

8 sports teams that changed their antiquated mascots
Explore how and why some college and pro teams finally decided to ditch their old name or logo.
STAFF VIDEO, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-17--Small hidden cave leads to breathtaking oasis in California

A day-tripper in California was n't expecting to find a private beach on the other end of a hidden cave @

Hidden cave leads to beautiful secret paradise
A day-tripper in California wasn't expecting to find a private beach on the other end of a hidden cave.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-17--How to restore cloth face masks with an iron

How to restore cloth face masks with an iron Face masks can lose their shape after washing .
Use an @ @ @ @ @ .

COVID-19: How to take care of cloth face masks
Face masks can lose their shape after washing. Use an iron to restore their shape.
ProblemSolved, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-18--US cyber attack: 'Grave risk' for private sector, infrastructure, federal government

Officials reviewing compromises to Department of Energy , including nuclear administration and other sectors in massive hacking campaign .

US cyber attack: 'Grave risk' for private sector, infrastructure, federal government
Officials reviewing compromises to Department of Energy, including nuclear administration and other sectors in massive hacking campaign.
USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-17--Who is Mitch McConnell: What you need to know about the Republican Senate leader

Who is Mitch McConnell : What you need to know about the Republican Senate leader Here 's what you need @ @ @ @ @ the longest-running U.S. senators and Republican leaders , from his beginnings to his controversies .

Mitch McConnell’s journey to the Senate leadership
Here's what you need to know about one of the longest-running U.S. senators and Republican leaders, from his beginnings to his controversies.
Just the FAQs, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-17--Ex-election security chief Christopher Krebs calls out GOP on threats against election officials: 'I

Corrections/clarifications : An earlier version of this article misstated Christopher Krebs ' message to Republicans .
It has been updated to reflect he urged Republicans to stand up to threats against election officials .
WASHINGTON – Former election security chief Christopher Krebs said he has not seen anything that would change his opinion that the 2020 election was secure and urged Republicans to call out threats and harassment against local election officials who have rejected baseless claims of widespread fraud .
`` This is not the America I recognize .
It 's got to stop .
We need everyone across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Krebs testified Wednesday before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs .
`` I would appreciate more support from my own party , the Republican Party , to call this stuff out and end it .
We 've got ta move on .
We have a president-elect in President-elect Biden . ''
Krebs defended election officials who have been the subject of threats , particularly Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and Gabriel Sterling , the state 's voting implementation manager .
Both have pushed back against claims from President Donald Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was tainted with systemic fraud .
`` These are Republicans that are putting country over party , '' Krebs said .
`` They are being subjected to just horrific threats as a result . ''
`` We have to stop this .
It 's undermining confidence in democracy , '' he said .
Krebs , who presided over an elaborate election security effort by the Department of Homeland Security , was fired by Trump last month as part of a post-election purge of top national security officials .
Krebs ' ouster follows the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the most secure in U.S. history .
The statement served as a pointed rebuke to Trump , who has continued to make unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud while his legal team sought to overturn election results in battleground states that President-elect Joe Biden won .
Local and federal judges , including those appointed by Trump , have largely rejected those efforts .
The Supreme Court has also refused to hear challenges brought by the president 's allies .
`` To be clear , based on my experience and understanding , no adversary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a single vote cast in a U.S. election .
Furthermore , even if such a hack were conducted , it would be incredibly difficult to carry out such an operation on a scale that could change the outcome of a national election , '' Krebs said in his written opening statement .
Krebs also said claims that hackers and malicious algorithms flipped votes in several states , as well as allegations that an election equipment vendor had ties to a deceased foreign dictator do n't square `` with what we know about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangerous and only serve to confuse , scare , and ultimately undermine confidence in the election , '' Krebs said .
Former Trump attorney Sidney Powell , whom Krebs did not name , had spun an elaborate tale that former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez orchestrated an effort to rig U.S. elections by conspiring with Dominion Voting Systems .
Chavez died seven years ago .
Judges in multiple states have dismissed the election claims .
In Michigan , a federal judge said : `` This lawsuit seems to be less about achieving the relief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relief is beyond the power of this Court – and more about the impact of their allegations on People ’ s faith in the democratic process and their trust in our government . ''
Claims of vote flipping are both `` inaccurate '' and `` technically incoherent , '' Krebs said , citing a statement signed by 59 national security experts .
`` Do systems have vulnerabilities ?
Yes .
But vulnerabilities do not automatically translate into hacked systems and votes changed , '' Krebs said .
`` Appropriate resilience measures built into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and meaningful post-election canvassing and auditing that can repeatedly confirm outcomes , voters can still have confidence in the process . ''
Earlier this month , Krebs sued the Trump campaign and one of the president 's lawyers for defamation , claiming that the attorney falsely characterized his remarks as treasonous while suggesting that Krebs be `` taken out at dawn and shot . ''

Ex-election security chief Christopher Krebs calls out GOP on threats against election officials: 'It's got to stop'
Show Caption Hide Caption Trump fires CISA Director Chris Krebs, who denied election fraud President Trump has fired Chris Krebs, the head of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. CISA is tasked with protecting elections from cyberattacks. Newsy, Newsy
Corrections/clarifications: An earlier version of this article misstated Christopher Krebs' message to Republicans. It has been updated to reflect he urged Republicans to stand up to threats against election officials.
WASHINGTON – Former election security chief Christopher Krebs said he has not seen anything that would change his opinion that the 2020 election was secure and urged Republicans to call out threats and harassment against local election officials who have rejected baseless claims of widespread fraud.
"This is not the America I recognize. It's got to stop. We need everyone across the leadership ranks to stand up," Krebs testified Wednesday before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. "I would appreciate more support from my own party, the Republican Party, to call this stuff out and end it. We've gotta move on. We have a president-elect in President-elect Biden."
Krebs defended election officials who have been the subject of threats, particularly Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and Gabriel Sterling, the state's voting implementation manager. Both have pushed back against claims from President Donald Trump and his allies that the 2020 election was tainted with systemic fraud.
"These are Republicans that are putting country over party," Krebs said. "They are being subjected to just horrific threats as a result."
Krebs also called out domestic disinformation campaigns.
"We have to stop this. It's undermining confidence in democracy," he said.
Krebs, who presided over an elaborate election security effort by the Department of Homeland Security, was fired by Trump last month as part of a post-election purge of top national security officials. Krebs' ouster follows the agency's declaration that the general election was the most secure in U.S. history.
Trump fires election security chief: Trump ousts Homeland Security cyber chief Chris Krebs, who called election secure
The statement served as a pointed rebuke to Trump, who has continued to make unsubstantiated allegations of voter fraud while his legal team sought to overturn election results in battleground states that President-elect Joe Biden won. Local and federal judges, including those appointed by Trump, have largely rejected those efforts. The Supreme Court has also refused to hear challenges brought by the president's allies.
"To be clear, based on my experience and understanding, no adversary has yet developed the ability to manipulate a single vote cast in a U.S. election. Furthermore, even if such a hack were conducted, it would be incredibly difficult to carry out such an operation on a scale that could change the outcome of a national election," Krebs said in his written opening statement.
Krebs also said claims that hackers and malicious algorithms flipped votes in several states, as well as allegations that an election equipment vendor had ties to a deceased foreign dictator don't square "with what we know about the facts."
"They are also dangerous and only serve to confuse, scare, and ultimately undermine confidence in the election," Krebs said.
Former Trump attorney Sidney Powell, whom Krebs did not name, had spun an elaborate tale that former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez orchestrated an effort to rig U.S. elections by conspiring with Dominion Voting Systems. Chavez died seven years ago.
Judges in multiple states have dismissed the election claims. In Michigan, a federal judge said: "This lawsuit seems to be less about achieving the relief Plaintiffs seek – as much of that relief is beyond the power of this Court – and more about the impact of their allegations on People’s faith in the democratic process and their trust in our government."
Election security officials: 'No evidence voting systems compromised'
Claims of vote flipping are both "inaccurate" and "technically incoherent," Krebs said, citing a statement signed by 59 national security experts.
"Do systems have vulnerabilities? Yes. But vulnerabilities do not automatically translate into hacked systems and votes changed," Krebs said. "Appropriate resilience measures built into election systems mean that with reliable paper and meaningful post-election canvassing and auditing that can repeatedly confirm outcomes, voters can still have confidence in the process."
Earlier this month, Krebs sued the Trump campaign and one of the president's lawyers for defamation, claiming that the attorney falsely characterized his remarks as treasonous while suggesting that Krebs be "taken out at dawn and shot."
Contributing: Kevin Johnson


usatoday--2020-12-17--New Jersey legislators pass bill to decriminalize marijuana possession, up to six ounces

TRENTON , N.J. – New Jersey legislators have passed landmark bills which , if signed into law , will allow New Jerseyans to possess , buy and sell — with taxes levied — marijuana for adult use next year .
After weeks of negotiations and years of debate , the state Legislature is voting on two pieces of `` enabling '' legislation designed to turn New Jersey voters ' wishes to legalize marijuana into reality .
Marijuana users would be allowed to possess up to 6 ounces of weed without penalty under a decriminalization bill , while the other sets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tax structure for the purchase and sale of legal weed .
The tax and licensure bill passed the Senate by a 23 to 17 vote and the Assembly by a 49 to 24 vote with six abstentions .
It now heads to Gov .
Phil Murphy 's desk to become law .
The Assembly passed the decriminalization bill by a 64 to 12 with three abstentions .
The Senate will consider that bill shortly .
`` I ca n't think of anything that will have broader impact for New Jerseyans and I ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Jerseyans , '' bill sponsor Sen. Nick Scutari , D-Union said .
`` We 've been trying to arrest our way out of a problem we created ourselves for a naturally occurring substance that 's been around for thousands of years .
`` No one 's ever died from it , and legalization of it under strict guidelines will take the black market out of the underground and start to bring it out to the open space . ''
The Senate is also expected to pass the bills today .
If both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will head to Gov .
Phil Murphy 's desk to become law .
Legalizing marijuana was “ a commitment to hope and opportunity , ” said Assemblywoman Annette Quijano , D-Union and a sponsor of the bill , noting the disproportionate toll of marijuana enforcement on communities of color .
Those communities will “ begin to remove the scarlet letter of unjust charges ” after Thursday ’ s vote , she said.If the Legislature does n't pass both bills , New Jersey would be in a unique situation where , as of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ despite the will of voters .
MORE Act : House of Representatives passes bill legalizing marijuana at the federal level Back and forth from legislators to voters The push to legalize marijuana in New Jersey has been through stops and starts over the last three years .
Over two-thirds of voters supported legalizing marijuana during the 2020 election , but the measure only wound up on the ballot after efforts to legalize weed through the legislative process stalled last year .
Last December , over two-thirds of legislators voted to place the issue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — exactly one year and one day ago .
But legalizing marijuana through the ballot has brought legislative headaches , especially after lawmakers waited until after Election Day to begin discussing them .
The changes made to the state constitution — legalizing marijuana — can only take place if they 're subject to regulations by the state , particularly the still-not-formed Cannabis Regulatory Commission , which is empowered by the Legislature to oversee the cannabis industry .
That required legislators to yet again pass marijuana legalization bills — a concept that was been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the support of 2.7 million voters .
A marijuana decriminalization bill sponsored by Sen. Teresa Ruiz , D-Essex , would remove all penalties for the possession of up to 6 ounces of weed , easily the highest legal threshold of the 15 states to legalize marijuana .
Other crimes , such as distribution , would be slightly downgraded and a charge of distribution of up to 1 ounce of marijuana would be subject to a written warning on the first offense .
`` These are critical conversations to have now and after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement .
`` Decriminalization is a key part of ensuring that our marijuana policies protect disenfranchised communities even after legalization is in effect and its passage has to be a priority . ''
Ruiz 's bill was held up last month due to a late amendment from Scutari that would have downgraded penalties for possession of up to 1 ounce of psychedelic mushrooms from a maximum five-year prison sentence to a six-month jail term .
`` Mushrooms are something that is starting to see some usage in terms of its efficacy with treatment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Scutari said during a committee hearing on the subject last month .
`` Regardless of that fact , I don ’ t believe that simple possession of one mushroom should land you with a felony charge.
” That measure has since been separated into its own bill , which passed the Senate by a 22 to 15 vote with three abstentions .
The Assembly is also expected to pass the mushrooms bill on Thursday .
The far more controversial bill has been the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory , Enforcement Assistance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the basics of taxing legal weed purchases and licensing cannabis businesses .
Assemblyman Brian Bergen , R-Morris , objected to the bill , saying it lacked workplace protections and would lead to dangerous working conditions .
That bill has gone through numerous changes after it faced criticism from social justice activists who said the bill was soft or negligent in ensuring that Black and brown people had equitable access to the potential economic boom from a legal cannabis industry .
The result was a unique two-tax structure designed to send revenue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to an analysis of arrest data by the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey , Black people in the Garden State have been more than 3.5 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people , despite similar usage rates .
Seventy percent of the first tax , a flat 7 % sales tax , would go toward those communities .
The remaining 30 % would be earmarked for the state budget .
A second , excise tax would be levied on cannabis cultivators and fluctuate depending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cannabis , jumping from $ 10 to $ 60 per ounce as the average market price drops from $ 350 or more to $ 199 or less .
All revenue from the excise tax would go toward Black and brown communities .
If signed into law , the legal weed framework law would establish two taxes on legal weed , including a 7 % sales tax .
Seventy percent of the revenue from the sales tax would go to municipalities with predominantly Black and brown populations where marijuana laws were disproportionately enforced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the eyes of social justice and marijuana legalization activists .
The decriminalization bill does not lower the penalties for growing cannabis , even as medical marijuana patient advocates clamor for a program to allow patients to grow up to six plants .
If signed into law , New Jersey would be the only state with legal weed that bars its medical marijuana patients from growing cannabis at home .

Mike Davis and Stacey Barchenger, Asbury Park Press

New Jersey legislators pass bill to decriminalize marijuana possession, up to six ounces
TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey legislators have passed landmark bills which, if signed into law, will allow New Jerseyans to possess, buy and sell — with taxes levied — marijuana for adult use next year.
After weeks of negotiations and years of debate, the state Legislature is voting on two pieces of "enabling" legislation designed to turn New Jersey voters' wishes to legalize marijuana into reality.
Marijuana users would be allowed to possess up to 6 ounces of weed without penalty under a decriminalization bill, while the other sets up the framework of a license and tax structure for the purchase and sale of legal weed.
The tax and licensure bill passed the Senate by a 23 to 17 vote and the Assembly by a 49 to 24 vote with six abstentions. It now heads to Gov. Phil Murphy's desk to become law.
The Assembly passed the decriminalization bill by a 64 to 12 with three abstentions. The Senate will consider that bill shortly.
"I can't think of anything that will have broader impact for New Jerseyans and I can't think of something more sensible for New Jerseyans," bill sponsor Sen. Nick Scutari, D-Union said. "We've been trying to arrest our way out of a problem we created ourselves for a naturally occurring substance that's been around for thousands of years.
"No one's ever died from it, and legalization of it under strict guidelines will take the black market out of the underground and start to bring it out to the open space."
The Senate is also expected to pass the bills today. If both houses pass the legal weed bills, they will head to Gov. Phil Murphy's desk to become law.
Legalizing marijuana was “a commitment to hope and opportunity,” said Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, D-Union and a sponsor of the bill, noting the disproportionate toll of marijuana enforcement on communities of color.
Those communities will “begin to remove the scarlet letter of unjust charges” after Thursday’s vote, she said.If the Legislature doesn't pass both bills, New Jersey would be in a unique situation where, as of Jan. 1, marijuana would remain illegal despite the will of voters.
MORE Act: House of Representatives passes bill legalizing marijuana at the federal level
Back and forth from legislators to voters
The push to legalize marijuana in New Jersey has been through stops and starts over the last three years. Over two-thirds of voters supported legalizing marijuana during the 2020 election, but the measure only wound up on the ballot after efforts to legalize weed through the legislative process stalled last year.
Last December, over two-thirds of legislators voted to place the issue on the ballot as a constitutional amendment — exactly one year and one day ago.
But legalizing marijuana through the ballot has brought legislative headaches, especially after lawmakers waited until after Election Day to begin discussing them.
The changes made to the state constitution — legalizing marijuana — can only take place if they're subject to regulations by the state, particularly the still-not-formed Cannabis Regulatory Commission, which is empowered by the Legislature to oversee the cannabis industry.
That required legislators to yet again pass marijuana legalization bills — a concept that was been proven easier said than done, even with the support of 2.7 million voters.
A marijuana decriminalization bill sponsored by Sen. Teresa Ruiz, D-Essex, would remove all penalties for the possession of up to 6 ounces of weed, easily the highest legal threshold of the 15 states to legalize marijuana.
Other crimes, such as distribution, would be slightly downgraded and a charge of distribution of up to 1 ounce of marijuana would be subject to a written warning on the first offense.
"These are critical conversations to have now and after enactment," Ruiz said in a statement. "Decriminalization is a key part of ensuring that our marijuana policies protect disenfranchised communities even after legalization is in effect and its passage has to be a priority."
Election Day: These states legalized recreational marijuana
Ruiz's bill was held up last month due to a late amendment from Scutari that would have downgraded penalties for possession of up to 1 ounce of psychedelic mushrooms from a maximum five-year prison sentence to a six-month jail term.
"Mushrooms are something that is starting to see some usage in terms of its efficacy with treatment of depression and other types of illnesses," Scutari said during a committee hearing on the subject last month. "Regardless of that fact, I don’t believe that simple possession of one mushroom should land you with a felony charge.”
That measure has since been separated into its own bill, which passed the Senate by a 22 to 15 vote with three abstentions. The Assembly is also expected to pass the mushrooms bill on Thursday.
The far more controversial bill has been the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act, which sets up the basics of taxing legal weed purchases and licensing cannabis businesses.
Assemblyman Brian Bergen, R-Morris, objected to the bill, saying it lacked workplace protections and would lead to dangerous working conditions.
Social justice issues
That bill has gone through numerous changes after it faced criticism from social justice activists who said the bill was soft or negligent in ensuring that Black and brown people had equitable access to the potential economic boom from a legal cannabis industry.
The result was a unique two-tax structure designed to send revenue to communities where marijuana laws were disproportionately enforced. According to an analysis of arrest data by the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, Black people in the Garden State have been more than 3.5 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white people, despite similar usage rates.
Seventy percent of the first tax, a flat 7% sales tax, would go toward those communities. The remaining 30% would be earmarked for the state budget.
A second, excise tax would be levied on cannabis cultivators and fluctuate depending on the average price of an ounce of cannabis, jumping from $10 to $60 per ounce as the average market price drops from $350 or more to $199 or less.
All revenue from the excise tax would go toward Black and brown communities.
If signed into law, the legal weed framework law would establish two taxes on legal weed, including a 7% sales tax. Seventy percent of the revenue from the sales tax would go to municipalities with predominantly Black and brown populations where marijuana laws were disproportionately enforced.
Both bills have outstanding issues, in the eyes of social justice and marijuana legalization activists.
The decriminalization bill does not lower the penalties for growing cannabis, even as medical marijuana patient advocates clamor for a program to allow patients to grow up to six plants. If signed into law, New Jersey would be the only state with legal weed that bars its medical marijuana patients from growing cannabis at home.
Follow New Jersey reporter Mike Davis on Twitter: @byMikeDavis.


usatoday--2020-12-17--COVID-19 vaccine: Your most common questions answered

In this special edition episode of States of America , experts answer the biggest questions Americans have about the vaccine @ @ @ @ @ it 's getting to you and more .

COVID-19 vaccine: Your most common questions answered
In this special edition episode of States of America, experts answer the biggest questions Americans have about the vaccine, side effects, how it's getting to you and more.
USA TODAY