usatoday--2020-12-20--Coronavirus updates: CDC advisory committee recommends Moderna vaccine; UK imposes tough lockdowns d

Coronavirus updates: CDC advisory committee recommends Moderna vaccine; UK imposes tough lockdowns due to possible new strain

USA TODAY is keeping track of the news surrounding COVID-19 as vaccines begin to roll out nationwide .
Just this week , the U.S. marked the stark milestone of more than 17 million cases and 300,000 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic .
Keep refreshing this page for the latest updates on vaccine distribution , including who is getting the shots and where , as well as other COVID-19 news from across the USA TODAY Network .
Sign up for our Coronavirus Watch newsletter for updates directly to your inbox , join our Facebook group or scroll through our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need to know about the coronavirus .
► Distribution of Moderna 's newly-authorized vaccine began Saturday and will arrive to states Monday , said Gen. Gustave Perna , chief operating officer of Operation Warp Speed .
Meanwhile , the U.S. government is on track to deliver 20 million doses of both vaccines to states by the first week of January .
► Tennessee 's First Lady Maria Lee has tested positive for COVID-19 , according to Gov .
Bill Lee 's office .
Maria Lee learned of the positive test result Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms of COVID-19 , '' according to a statement from the governor .
► Stimulus talks stalled Saturday .
As the hours ticked down towards another government shutdown deadline , senators deadlocked over Republicans ’ insistence a provision ending certain emergency Federal Reserve powers be included in the bill .
► States this week found themselves scrambling to adjust as they received word they would get between 20 % and 40 % less vaccine next week than they had been told as late as Dec. 9 .
After days of confusion , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday night : States were given estimates based on vaccine doses produced , not those that had been OK 'd .
► A U.S. college student and her boyfriend have been sentenced to four months in prison in the Cayman Islands for violating strict COVID-19 measures .
► Santa Claus may be immune to COVID-19 but he now has an extra layer of protection thanks to Dr. Anthony Fauci , the nation 's leading infectious disease expert .
Fauci told children watching a 'Sesame Street ' town hall put on by CNN Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ► Minnesota State Sen. Jerry Relph , who represented the city of St .
Cloud , died Thursday .
He tested positive for the coronavirus on Nov. 13 , but his cause of death is unknown at this time .
► The U.K. is imposing stricter lockdowns to curb rapidly spreading infections — possibly linked to a new strain of the virus identified this week .
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Saturday that nonessential shops , hairdressers and indoor leisure venues will be closed .
“ It is with a very heavy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not proceed with Christmas as planned , ” Johnson said .
► President-elect Joe Biden and his wife , Jill , will be getting their first dose of the coronavirus vaccine on Monday , according to Biden ’ s incoming press secretary , Jen Psaki .
Among high-profile politicians to receive the vaccine Friday : Vice President Mike Pence , House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell .
📈 Today 's numbers : The U.S. has more than 17.6 million coronavirus cases and more than 316,000 deaths , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global totals : More than 76 million cases and 1.6 million deaths .
An important public health committee voted unanimously Saturday to recommend Moderna ’ s COVID-19 vaccine for people 18 years old and older .
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is an outside committee that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
Its recommendations are used to set the vaccination schedule for the United States .
“ Safety has been a paramount focus , ” said Dr. José Romero , committee chair and a professor of pediatric infectious diseases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommendation now goes to CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield for a signature .
The Moderna vaccine was authorized by the Food and Drug Administration on Friday and will begin to arrive in all 50 states on Monday .
Packages of the Moderna coronavirus vaccine , authorized on Friday , are being packaged Saturday for delivery on Monday , Gen. Gustave Perna , chief operating officer of Operation Warp Speed , said .
`` Distribution of Moderna vaccine has already begun , '' Perna said at a Saturday morning news briefing .
The vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , New Hampshire , by Lonza , a Swiss-based pharmaceutical manufacturing company .
From there , it will be distributed by McKesson , a medical supply company .
McKesson will pack the vaccine , which comes in 10-dose vials , into special thermal shipping boxes that can maintain the necessary standard refrigerator temperature of 26 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit .
Those boxes will be packed onto UPS and FedEx trucks to begin the transportation , which will have them delivered to all 50 states by Monday .
`` Trucks will begin rolling out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivering vaccines and kits to the American people across the United States , '' Perna said .
He said 2.9 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine have been delivered and that the U.S. government is on track to deliver 20 million doses to states by the first week of January .
That number includes both Pfizer and Moderna doses .
After years of isolationist and punitive immigration policies from the Trump administration , many immigrants — whose physical and fiscal health has , along with many people of color , been disproportionately impacted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to come forward and get vaccinated .
COVID-19 has been particularly merciless to Black , Hispanic and Asian Americans for reasons that include poverty , preexisting health conditions and front-line jobs .
This demographic includes many immigrants , with the vast majority of those undocumented hailing from Mexico and Central America .
Many of them are critical to farming and meatpacking , and their illness and death represent both a human tragedy and an economic blow .
“ The vaccine must be fully available to undocumented Americans , if not , it will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said Manuel Pastor , head of the Equity Research Institute at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles , which uses data and analysis to dissect equity issues .
Read more here .
How will big cities change after COVID-19 ?
With the COVID-19 vaccine beginning to roll out , how the biggest cities in the United States — economic engines and cultural cauldrons such as San Francisco , New York , Los Angeles , Boston and Miami — return from the deadliest global health crisis in a century may in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bounces back .
Urban planners , economists and architects share a resoundingly positive consensus .
They say that buoyed by a younger demographic drawn to jobs , social opportunities and public services , cities will survive this crisis much as they did the Spanish Flu of 1918 and the terrorist attacks on 9/11 , an echo of European capitals ' resilience after the bubonic plague of the 1300s and cholera outbreak of the early 1800s .
Some even posit that a year from now the United States might be in the midst of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reference to giddy good times that followed the Spanish Flu .
Part of that growth will depend on how quickly and effectively cities pivot in the wake of a landscape-altering pandemic .
A lot of that will depend on how fast municipal financial coffers , depleted by lost real estate and sales tax revenue , fill back up or whether federal aid comes to the rescue .
Read more here .
Democrats in Congress ask CDC to list educators as critical group for vaccine A Friday letter obtained by USA TODAY and signed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to list K-12 teachers and school personnel among the groups of critical workers who will be prioritized in vaccine distribution .
Teachers getting sick from COVID-19 or quarantining because of exposure to the virus has been a major hurtle to keeping schools open in recent months .
The letter says that vaccinating teachers will make it easier to reopen schools while also protecting educators , who put themselves at a greater risk for contracting the virus when they teach in-person .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and school personnel recognizes the essential work of these professionals , enables a safer return to in-person instruction , and provides the means necessary for tens of millions of workers to breathe life into the American economy , '' the letter says .
The letter , addressed to CDC director Robert Redfield , acknowledges states have the final say in vaccination distribution , but the federal agency 's guidance helps shape those policies .


usatoday--2020-12-19--'It's pretty astounding:' Celebrating demise of 'Indians' after years of fighting

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'It’s pretty astounding:' Celebrating demise of 'Indians' after years of fighting
Show Caption Hide Caption These sports nicknames have racially insensitive origins SportsPulse: While Washington's NFL team is finally putting to bed their racially insensitive nickname. Remember there are other major sports teams whose nickname origins are linked to America’s culturally-insensitive past. USA TODAY
Jacqueline Keeler, Cleveland born, is happy her hometown team won’t be called the Indians anymore.
She is an activist and journalist who is Navaho and Yankton Dakota Sioux. She is editor-in-chief of Pollen Nation magazine, which is dedicated to fighting the invisibility of Native people, and a founder of Eradicating Offensive Native Mascotry, which seeks to end the use of stereotypical representations in popular culture.
The American League baseball team in Cleveland announced this week that it will jettison the moniker it has used since 1915, though not until after the coming season. The change was not unexpected — the team had said over the summer that it was reconsidering use of its team name — and yet the news took Keeler by surprise.
“I have to say, I didn’t think this day would come, almost,” she says. “It’s pretty astounding.”
She gives thanks to advocates in the Native community who fought the good fight for more than 50 years. Credit should also go, she believes, to activists in the Black Lives Matter movement. The nation looked at the issue of systemic racism with fresh eyes following the death of George Floyd.
“I credit the activism of the Black community, which is always changing the parameters of what is acceptable in this country, and putting their bodies on the line to do so,” Keeler says. “Before, teams could always string us along and just claim they were doing it to honor us, or because that’s what their fans wanted. But the Black Lives Matter movement really changed that.”
The Washington Football Team cast aside its team name in the weeks after Floyd’s death. That’s also when the Cleveland baseball team said it would look into a change of its own. That came a couple of years after a move away from Chief Wahoo, the big-toothed, red-faced caricature that served for so long as the team’s cartoon logo.
LATEST UPDATES: What we know about Cleveland baseball team dropping 'Indians' nickname
NEW NAME: Here are 10 suggestions for Cleveland's new nickname
The Chief’s idiot grin was part of the culture that greeted Keeler’s parents when they arrived in Cleveland circa 1960 as part of the federal government’s so-called American Indian Relocation program.
“Basically, it relocated young Native people from reservations to urban centers,” Keeler says. “They brought about 20,000 Native people between the ages of 18 and 30 to Cleveland in the 1950s and 1960s.”
The Cleveland Plain Dealer, on its front page in 1957, reported the news this way: “Cleveland is going to get some new Indians, but this is no baseball story. Honest Injun.”
That tells you a lot about the era when Keeler’s parents met and married in Cleveland. Some years later, they joined other members of the local Native community in protesting the Cleveland club’s team name and its malignant mascot.
The family moved to Denver when Keeler was 4. As she grew up, she heard her parents talk about the protests, and the community work, in which they had been a part.
“When a game was on, they’d go on about it,” Keeler says. “But I just kind of ignored it, because it was before my time, and I didn’t watch much professional baseball. But then I went off to school at Dartmouth and got confronted by the mascot issue there. And I had to take a stand as an undergraduate.”
This was the mid-1990s, long after Dartmouth had shed its “Indians” team name.
“The college had stopped using it 20 years before I got there, but the alumni kept trying to bring it back. They would hand out ‘Dartmouth Indians’ T-shirts to freshmen. I tried to explain the issue to my Irish-American roommate from Massachusetts, but she didn’t understand it at all. She wanted to wear the shirt because it was free. That was shocking to me. I didn’t think it was a hard issue to understand.”
Years later, in Portland, Oregon, where she now lives, Keeler was taking her children on the city’s light rail system for a visit to the zoo.
“A little blonde girl in the family sitting across from us was wearing a Cleveland Indians hat with Chief Wahoo. I was horrified that my children were seeing this. So I asked the father if they could please take the hat off her head. I said, ‘We’re Native Americans, and I don’t want my children to see that.’ He refused. That was when I realized, ‘Wow, this is really bad.’ ”
Soon Keeler was an activist herself. Mascotry is a made-up word meant to convey the act of white fans in war paint who mock Native people while purporting to honor them. Eradicating Offensive Native Mascotry uses social media to spread the word, often with the hashtag #NotYourMascot, which it launched for the Super Bowl in 2014.
That is also the year her group originated the hashtag #DeChief, for the act of unstitching Chief Wahoo from Cleveland caps — de-chiefing them — and leaving behind only a ghostly outline. As it happens, that is the year that her son and daughter joined her for protests outside Nike headquarters, in suburban Portland, where they urged the company to step selling merchandise with the Chief on it.
Her children, at that moment, became the third generation of her family to take up the fight. This made her proud and sad at the same time.
Keeler thinks this latest move by the Cleveland baseball team is a sign that perhaps her children’s children will not have to live with Native mascotry. The big-league holdouts in Atlanta (baseball), Chicago (hockey), and Kansas City (football) are on the clock.
“The reasons that teams always gave to continue the mascoting of Native people,” she says, “are all untenable now.”


usatoday--2020-12-19--Northwestern's Brandon Joseph makes defensive play of the year in Big Ten title game

Northwestern 's Brandon Joseph just made the defensive play of the year against Ohio State in the Big Ten championship @ @ @ @ @ back made an insane one-handed interception in the end zone , wiping out Ohio State @ @ @ @ @ the lead with 36 seconds left in the first half .
The interception left quarterback @ @ @ @ @ stunned .
The replay shows the athleticism and degree of difficulty Joseph made on the @ @ @ @ @ Garrett Wilson .
The Wildcats took a 10-6 lead deep into the third quarter .
@ @ @ @ @ Freshman of the Year , leads the nation with six interceptions in eight games .
@ @ @ @ @ trips inside the 30-yard line and come away with just two field goals .
It @ @ @ @ @ 2018 that Ohio State had n't scored a touchdown in the first half .

Northwestern's Brandon Joseph makes defensive play of the year in Big Ten title game
Show Caption Hide Caption Why going to an 8-team College Football Playoff is inevitable SportsPulse: The conversation comes up every year but it may finally happen. After seven years of a four team College Football Playoff, Dan Wolken believes there's enough momentum that this time next year we could be seeing an eight team playoff. SportsPulse, USA TODAY
Northwestern's Brandon Joseph just made the defensive play of the year against Ohio State in the Big Ten championship game.
The freshman defensive back made an insane one-handed interception in the end zone, wiping out Ohio State’s chances of taking the lead with 36 seconds left in the first half.
The interception left quarterback Justin Fields and the Buckeyes stunned. The replay shows the athleticism and degree of difficulty Joseph made on the catch intended for wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
The Wildcats took a 10-6 lead deep into the third quarter.
Joseph, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, leads the nation with six interceptions in eight games.
The Buckeyes have had four trips inside the 30-yard line and come away with just two field goals. It's the first time since 2018 that Ohio State hadn't scored a touchdown in the first half.
BRANDON JOSEPH ARE YOU KIDDING
pic.twitter.com/fltJkgkhIe — PFF College (@PFF_College) December 19, 2020


usatoday--2020-12-17--15 places to buy best-selling face masks on sale now

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
As we all know by now , face masks have become just another part of our new normal amid the COVID-19 pandemic .
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) , the use of a cloth face mask to cover the mouth and nose in public spaces plays a vital role in stopping the spread of coronavirus , as it acts like a barrier and can help stop respiratory droplets from becoming airborne—the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Reviewed 's Resources newsletter for tips , tricks and hacks to get through this together .
If you could use a few more in your rotation , we 've rounded up a list of the best places to score a reusable , washable mask at a discount .
While you wo n't find medical-grade versions or N95 masks here , which should be left for healthcare workers , you will find plenty of savings on a variety of popular cloth options , some of which are even equipped with filter pockets or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ features in our handy callouts at the bottom of each mask description ) .
Keep in mind that due to hygienic reasons , mask purchases are final sale and can not be returned .
Keep scrolling for 16 stores that are currently offering great deals on top-selling face coverings .
As the best face mask we 've ever tried , these non-medical coverings from Athleta are a more than solid choice to pick up at regular pricing , let alone on sale .
We loved the triple-layered fabric , which provided added protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ humid weather .
Usually $ 30 , this five-pack of holiday-themed masks is currently half off at just $ 14.99 .
It features assorted colors , adjustable ear loops and an encased nose wire for a tighter fit .
Get the Athleta Everyday Masks , 5-pack at Athleta for $ 14.99 ( Save $ 14.99 ) A huge plethora of facial coverings from customer-loved brands are marked down by 30 % over at Nordstrom through Monday , December 21 .
Shoppers can snag masks for both adults and kids during this sale : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coverings , regularly $ 25 , is on sale for $ 17.50 , while this four-piece collection of Andy & Evan assorted kids ' face masks is discounted down to $ 11.96 from $ 19.95 .
While neither set is medical-grade , both feature a comfy cotton fabric and filter pockets for added protection .
Get Face Masks at Nordstrom from $ 4.20 ( Save $ 2.80 to $ 11 ) 3 .
Less than $ 5 : Old Navy Old Navy 's budget-friendly pack of masks were named the `` best value @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as we found the soft cotton material to be ultra-comfy and breathable .
Its three-layer fabric construction also offers more protection than coverings with a single layer , plus , it 's machine washable to boot .
Right now , you can get select holiday-themed and patterned sets for just $ 4.97 when they usually retail for $ 12.50 .
Get select Old Navy Triple-Layer Cloth Face Mask Sets for $ 4.97 ( Save $ 7.53 ) These stylish Caraa Sport masks come in a pack of five .
Made with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they 've got a moldable wire nosepiece that 's embedded into the fabric for a snugger fit .
And right now , if you enter coupon code HI-79NVF4 at checkout , you can take 10 % off this pack to get it for $ 22.50 .
With an average 4.9-star rating from more than 1,300 reviewers , these masks have become a customer-favorite for their adjustable loops and soft cotton fabric .
Get the Caraa Sport Face Mask , 5-pack for $ 22.50 ( Save $ 2.50 ) If you 're looking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Champion wicking face mask just might do the trick .
We found it to be not only easy to breathe in , but also ideal for working out as it helps to wick moisture away from the face ( a feature that also makes it great for warmer days ) .
The only catch is that the mask is designed with just one layer of fabric , which makes it slightly less protective than some of the other masks on this list .
Once $ 10 , it 's currently on sale for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ code CHMAB10 at checkout , the price drops to just $ 4.50 .
Get the Champion Wicking Face Mask for $ 4.50 ( Save $ 5.50 ) Banana Republic ’ s masks come in a set of three and are designed with fully adjustable ear loops and nose wires in order to fit faces both big and small .
In our testing , these masks were a middle-of-the-pack performer , and felt fairly protective with two layers of knit material .
Although , we found them a bit harder to breathe in than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain a big hit amongst Banana Republic customers .
And thanks to a limited-time sale at the store , you can nab this three-pack for 60 % off at just $ 10 , rather than its usual $ 25 price tag .
Get the Banana Republic Face Mask 3-Pack for $ 10 ( Save $ 15 ) Boasting more than 2,000 styles , including popular themes like Hello Kitty , Harry Potter , Sesame Street and more , MaskClub 's fan-favorite face masks are a great choice to get kids ( or maybe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facial covering .
When we tested them out , we enjoyed the fun prints and thought the filter pocket was an added bonus , too , though we did find them to be a bit more stifling than others during active pursuits .
Usually , they go for $ 14.99 for a single mask , but shoppers can currently use promo code SHOPMC15 to save 15 % on their order , bringing the total cost down to $ 12.75 .
Get the MaskClub Face Mask from $ 12.75 ( Save $ 2.24 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activewear , but that did n't stop the brand from using its leftover fabric to create a series of comfortable and chic face masks .
Made from a mix of polyamide and soft lycra sport , we found these masks to mirror the brand 's activewear styles , being both super soft and very on-trend .
While not as snug a fit as we 'd have liked , they do have an extra unique property as they also offer UV protection from the sun .
Available in multiple textures and colorways , these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or $ 27 depending on the style , but through tonight , December 17 , only , you can use coupon code HOLIDAYCHEER4 at checkout to save 50 % !
Get the Koral Face Mask from $ 10 ( Save $ 10 to $ 17.50 ) 9 .
Up to 20 % off : Giftgowns These darling , highly-rated masksfrom Giftgowns feature two layers of cotton to remain protective-yet-breathable throughout the day , a handy filter pocket and are also fully machine washable .
You can choose from a wide assortment of designs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on sale from $ 12 .
Right now , you can use coupon code HOHOHO50 to save 50 % on a single mask or stock up to save : Customers who order three or more will get 10 % off with code 3MASKS , 15 % off with six or more with code 6MASKS and 20 % off 12 or more masks with code 12MASKS .
Get the Giftgowns Face Mask from $ 9 ( Save $ 3 to $ 7.50 ) Vida 's protective mask not only comes in a bevy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two layers of cotton fabric and can be molded to any face shape thanks to its adjustable straps and integrated metal nose-piece .
Each one also comes with a multi-layer PM2.5 Filter , which the company suggests replacing once every seven days ( buy a five-pack replacement bundle here ) .
Whether you choose to pick up a single mask or shop them in packs of two or four , you 'll get 20 % off your entire purchase when you enter coupon code LOVE20 at checkout to drop these masks from $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you can get two free when you spend $ 70 or more and use promo code GIFTMASKS .
Get the Vida Protective Mask at Vida for $ 8 ( Save $ 2 ) These Ministry of Supply masks were developed in conjunction with healthcare professionals for long-term comfort .
Each one has been 3D-printed from a washable , knit fabric and contains a pocket for a single-use filtration membrane that can be easily inserted for added protection .
Your purchase includes 10 filter inserts , though additional filter packs can also be purchased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usually retail for $ 25 apiece , but you can currently knock $ 10 off the price with coupon code IAMALPHA10 at checkout to drop them to $ 15 .
You can also stock up with buy two , get one free pricing to get three masks ( $ 150 value ) for just $ 100 total—just note that these discounts are n't stackable .
Get the Ministry of Supply Mask for $ 15 ( Save $ 10 ) 12 .
20 % discount : Sock It To Me The thing that makes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unique is the outer layer , which is knit with an antimicrobial copper fiber that the brand claims provides more substantial protection than a standard cotton face mask .
Adjustable and breathable , these fun designs also feature a soft inner layer with embedded wire sewn into the top that you can mold around your nose for a more contoured fit .
While each one regularly retails for $ 15 , online members ( it 's free to sign up ) can enter coupon code NEWSOCKSROCK at checkout to save 20 % .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the retailer will donate one to Meals on Wheels people volunteers !
Get the Sock It To Me Face Mask for $ 12 ( Save $ 3 ) The neat thing about face masks at Threadless ?
They 're all custom-designed by artists .
You can get them for even less by entering coupon code AT20202440C at checkout , which drops the price by 25 % .
Made from two-layer polyester , these premium masks , normally $ 17 and now $ 12.75 with the code , are more form-fitting across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from $ 7.13 with the code , have a looser fit .
Featuring customized art , they 're plenty certainly eye-catching , to say the least .
A portion of the proceeds will also go to MedShare ( up to a $ 500,000 maximum donation ) , an organization that delivers medical supplies and equipment to communities in need around the world .
Get the Threadless Face Mask from $ 7.13 ( Save $ 2.37 to $ 4.25 ) Kenny Flowers ' printed face masks are made from leftover fabric—think woven cotton or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reusable , machine-washable and feature tie straps for an adjustable fit .
Better yet , you can save 15 % on a wide variety of fun , à la carte patterns when you use coupon code HOLIDAY15 at checkout to drop them from $ 10 to $ 8.50 .
Get the Kenny Flowers Mask from $ 8.50 ( Save $ 1.50 ) Sustainable clothing brand Christy Dawn is selling gorgeously patterned masks ( think floral and stripe designs ) with a two-ply cotton construction , so if you 're a fan of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , these masks will be right up your alley .
Normally $ 25 , you can get a pack of five for 20 % off using promo code LOVE20 at checkout , which lowers the total price to $ 20 .
Get the Christy Dawn Sustainable Cotton Face Masks for $ 20 ( Save $ 5 ) 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change over time .

Isabelle Kagan and Melissa Lee, Reviewed

15 places to buy best-selling face masks on sale now
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
As we all know by now, face masks have become just another part of our new normal amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the use of a cloth face mask to cover the mouth and nose in public spaces plays a vital role in stopping the spread of coronavirus, as it acts like a barrier and can help stop respiratory droplets from becoming airborne—the main way COVID-19 is transmitted.
Subscribe to Reviewed's Resources newsletter for tips, tricks and hacks to get through this together.
If you could use a few more in your rotation, we've rounded up a list of the best places to score a reusable, washable mask at a discount. While you won't find medical-grade versions or N95 masks here, which should be left for healthcare workers, you will find plenty of savings on a variety of popular cloth options, some of which are even equipped with filter pockets or bendable nose pieces (look for these features in our handy callouts at the bottom of each mask description). Keep in mind that due to hygienic reasons, mask purchases are final sale and cannot be returned. Keep scrolling for 16 stores that are currently offering great deals on top-selling face coverings.
1: Save 50%: Athleta
As the best face mask we've ever tried, these non-medical coverings from Athleta are a more than solid choice to pick up at regular pricing, let alone on sale. We loved the triple-layered fabric, which provided added protection, comfort and breathability, even in humid weather. Usually $30, this five-pack of holiday-themed masks is currently half off at just $14.99. It features assorted colors, adjustable ear loops and an encased nose wire for a tighter fit.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: No
Metal nose bridge: Yes
Get the Athleta Everyday Masks, 5-pack at Athleta for $14.99 (Save $14.99)
2. 30% off: Nordstrom
A huge plethora of facial coverings from customer-loved brands are marked down by 30% over at Nordstrom through Monday, December 21. Shoppers can snag masks for both adults and kids during this sale: For instance, this four-pack of neutral-hued coverings, regularly $25, is on sale for $17.50, while this four-piece collection of Andy & Evan assorted kids' face masks is discounted down to $11.96 from $19.95. While neither set is medical-grade, both feature a comfy cotton fabric and filter pockets for added protection.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: Varies by mask
Metal nose bridge: Varies by mask
Get Face Masks at Nordstrom from $4.20 (Save $2.80 to $11)
3. Less than $5: Old Navy
Old Navy's budget-friendly pack of masks were named the "best value" pick in our face mask testing, as we found the soft cotton material to be ultra-comfy and breathable. Its three-layer fabric construction also offers more protection than coverings with a single layer, plus, it's machine washable to boot. Right now, you can get select holiday-themed and patterned sets for just $4.97 when they usually retail for $12.50.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: No
Metal nose bridge: No
Get select Old Navy Triple-Layer Cloth Face Mask Sets for $4.97 (Save $7.53)
4. 10% off: Caraa
These stylish Caraa Sport masks come in a pack of five. Made with a nylon exterior and a cotton interior, they've got a moldable wire nosepiece that's embedded into the fabric for a snugger fit. And right now, if you enter coupon code HI-79NVF4 at checkout, you can take 10% off this pack to get it for $22.50. With an average 4.9-star rating from more than 1,300 reviewers, these masks have become a customer-favorite for their adjustable loops and soft cotton fabric.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: No
Metal nose bridge: Yes
Get the Caraa Sport Face Mask, 5-pack for $22.50 (Save $2.50)
5. Less than $5: Champion
If you're looking for a mask to exercise in, this Champion wicking face mask just might do the trick. We found it to be not only easy to breathe in, but also ideal for working out as it helps to wick moisture away from the face (a feature that also makes it great for warmer days). The only catch is that the mask is designed with just one layer of fabric, which makes it slightly less protective than some of the other masks on this list. Once $10, it's currently on sale for $5, but by entering promo code CHMAB10 at checkout, the price drops to just $4.50.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: No
Metal nose bridge: No
Get the Champion Wicking Face Mask for $4.50 (Save $5.50)
6. Save 60%: Banana Republic
Banana Republic’s masks come in a set of three and are designed with fully adjustable ear loops and nose wires in order to fit faces both big and small. In our testing, these masks were a middle-of-the-pack performer, and felt fairly protective with two layers of knit material. Although, we found them a bit harder to breathe in than other masks we've tested, they remain a big hit amongst Banana Republic customers. And thanks to a limited-time sale at the store, you can nab this three-pack for 60% off at just $10, rather than its usual $25 price tag.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: Yes
Metal nose bridge: Yes
Get the Banana Republic Face Mask 3-Pack for $10 (Save $15)
7. 15% off: MaskClub
Boasting more than 2,000 styles, including popular themes like Hello Kitty, Harry Potter, Sesame Street and more, MaskClub's fan-favorite face masks are a great choice to get kids (or maybe even adults) excited about wearing a facial covering. When we tested them out, we enjoyed the fun prints and thought the filter pocket was an added bonus, too, though we did find them to be a bit more stifling than others during active pursuits. Usually, they go for $14.99 for a single mask, but shoppers can currently use promo code SHOPMC15 to save 15% on their order, bringing the total cost down to $12.75.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: Yes
Metal nose bridge: No
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The thing that makes Sock It To Me's face masks unique is the outer layer, which is knit with an antimicrobial copper fiber that the brand claims provides more substantial protection than a standard cotton face mask. Adjustable and breathable, these fun designs also feature a soft inner layer with embedded wire sewn into the top that you can mold around your nose for a more contoured fit. While each one regularly retails for $15, online members (it's free to sign up) can enter coupon code NEWSOCKSROCK at checkout to save 20%. Better yet, for every mask purchase, the retailer will donate one to Meals on Wheels people volunteers!
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The neat thing about face masks at Threadless? They're all custom-designed by artists. You can get them for even less by entering coupon code AT20202440C at checkout, which drops the price by 25%. Made from two-layer polyester, these premium masks, normally $17 and now $12.75 with the code, are more form-fitting across the nose, while the regular masks, from $7.13 with the code, have a looser fit. Featuring customized art, they're plenty certainly eye-catching, to say the least. A portion of the proceeds will also go to MedShare (up to a $500,000 maximum donation), an organization that delivers medical supplies and equipment to communities in need around the world.
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Sustainable clothing brand Christy Dawn is selling gorgeously patterned masks (think floral and stripe designs) with a two-ply cotton construction, so if you're a fan of the retailer's airy dresses and whimsical prints, these masks will be right up your alley. Normally $25, you can get a pack of five for 20% off using promo code LOVE20 at checkout, which lowers the total price to $20.
Protection level: Non-medical grade
Filter pocket: No
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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--2020-12-19--20 best sports quotes of 2020: Michael Jordan, Naomi Osaka and more

Sports fans got a glimpse of what kind of year it was going to be in January with the death of an NBA legend , Kobe Bryant .
From there , the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest that spread across the country could n't help but impact the sports world .
It was a year many of us would prefer to forget .
But that does n't mean there were n't memorable quotes that defined the way we thought and felt about sports in the year 2020 .
FROM LEBRON TO OSAKA : :20 sports figures who made the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WE NEEDED : Heartwarming sports moments of 2020 USA TODAY Sports looked back on the year that was and the quotes that have stuck with us .
Here are some of the highlights : 1 — “ He wanted to be the best basketball player he could be .
And as I got to know him , I wanted to be the best big brother I could be.
” – Michael Jordan at Kobe Bryant 's memorial service .
Jordan 's commemoration showcased a window into the hidden bond the two legends shared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hurt me was all the stuff that I wanted to say , I had n't said it .
I never said it . ''
- NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal to USA TODAY 's Mark Medina on his up-and-down relationship with former teammate Kobe Bryant .
3 — `` I wish I would have taken this thing more seriously and I hope everyone else will do so because we can do it together .
Take care and stay safe . ''
– Utah Jazz forward Rudy Gobert , whose positive COVID test @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jazz-Thunder game in March and the suspension of the NBA season .
Other sports leagues quickly followed suit as the virus quickly began to spread .
4 — “ The first four , five days I was honestly nervous .
I wouldn ’ t say that I thought I was going to die or anything like that , but it did cross my mind a little bit.
” – Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller on contracting and recovering from COVID-19 .
5 — `` It feels like 162 right now ... Actually , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortened season , for the mental grind everyone has had to go through and change . ''
– Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker in mid-September , on the rigors of playing a 60-game MLB season through COVID-19 .
6 — “ I know the NCAA is worried about the end game .
They ’ re not as worried about the game we ’ re playing right now.
” – Duke men 's basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski , who vented about the NCAA 's decision to `` plow '' through the 2020-21 season early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have March Madness after the 2020 NCAA Tournament was canceled due to the virus .
7 — `` I learned early on that in fighting against systematic oppression , dehumanization and colonization , who controls the narrative shapes the reality of how the world views society .
It controls who ’ s loved , who ’ s hated , who ’ s degraded and who ’ s celebrated.
” – former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick told USA TODAY Sports about his plight to fight against injustice and what prompted him to originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — `` How can you hear the pain Black people are going through and dismiss it as nothing ?
How can you hear the pain and respond with anything other than ` I stand with you ' ? ''
-- Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow following Jacob Blake shooting .
9 — '' It 's amazing why we keep loving this country , and this country does not love us back . ''
- Philadelphia 76ers coach and former L.A. Clippers coach Doc Rivers following the Jacob Blake shooting .
10 — `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ...
I feel like the point is to make people start talking . ''
– Naomi Osaka when she was asked about her pre- and post-match masks at the U.S. Open , each with the name of a different Black American killed by racial profiling or unnecessary police violence .
11 — “ We the National Football League admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest .
We the National Football League believe Black lives matter.
” – NFL commissioner Roger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a group of NFL players challenged the NFL to join their fight against racism .
12 — “ I definitely want to extend some advice to all the kids out there : keep dreaming big .
These opportunities , they ’ re closer than you think.
” – Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Brett Phillips , after his walk-off hit made him a most unlikely hero in the Rays ' 7-6 victory in Game 4 of the World Series .
13 — “ That ’ s what ( Vanderbilt coaches ) have done the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ) if I ’ m good enough to do it .
It wasn ’ t because I was a girl . ''
– Vanderbilt kicker Sarah Fuller , who became the first woman to score in a Power Five college football game .
14 — `` How about these Fighting Rece Davises ? ''
– Northwestern football coach Pat Fitzgerald after a comment by ESPN analyst Joey Galloway helped fuel a 17-7 victory over Wisconsin by comparing the athletic abilities of the Wildcats players to those of his ESPN colleague Rece Davis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I can get it done on Sunday with the lead at a major , especially in tough conditions ... because I ’ m sure a lot of y ’ all think there were doubts in my mind , just because I had been there.
” -- golfer Dustin Johnson , on putting tragic near-misses and collapses in the final rounds of past majors behind him by winning The Masters in November , a little over a month after testing positive for COVID-19 .
16 — `` I want to see female commissioners , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see most is women reaping the benefits of the work that they 've sown . ''
- L.A. Sparks forward and WNBA players association president Nneka Ogwumike to USA TODAY 's Nancy Armour on the state of the league after ratifying its new collective bargaining agreement .
17— `` Listen , I can ’ t stop smoking .
I smoked during fights .
I just have to smoke , I ’ m sorry .
I ’ m a smoker .
… I smoke everyday .
I never stopped smoking . ''
– @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before fights .
The 54-year-old said he smoked marijuana right before he fought Roy Jones Jr. in late November in his celebrated return to the boxing ring .
18 — `` I thought it would be a big deal , but it 's beyond my expectations .
But it 's also a testament to where we are .
People are looking for hope .
People are looking for inspiration .
I 'm happy to be a part of it . ''
- the Miami Marlins ' Kim Ng , after being named the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American men 's sports franchise .
19 — `` I 'm pissed .
I 'm mad because people are trying to test my character and the person that I am and my integrity .
They 're not stealing that from me , but trying to test that . ''
– NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace after the FBI conducted an investigation into the noose that was found in his garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway on June 21 , and determined the incident was not a federal crime because the noose was found in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Wallace did not find the noose himself and NASCAR initially condemned the incident as a hate crime .
20 — `` It became personal with me . ''
– Michael Jordan in `` The Last Dance , '' ( several times ) about his various opponents .
With no live sports on television for months , the ESPN docu-series on the Chicago Bulls ' NBA dynasty of the 1980s captivated fans .
Jordan 's chip-on-his-shoulder mentality spawned countless `` ... and I took that personally '' memes on social media – even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the documentary .

Steve Gardner and Scott Gleeson, USA TODAY

20 best sports quotes of 2020: Michael Jordan, Naomi Osaka and more
Sports fans got a glimpse of what kind of year it was going to be in January with the death of an NBA legend, Kobe Bryant. From there, the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest that spread across the country couldn't help but impact the sports world.
It was a year many of us would prefer to forget. But that doesn't mean there weren't memorable quotes that defined the way we thought and felt about sports in the year 2020.
FROM LEBRON TO OSAKA:: 20 sports figures who made the world a better place in 2020
THE JOY WE NEEDED: Heartwarming sports moments of 2020
USA TODAY Sports looked back on the year that was and the quotes that have stuck with us. Here are some of the highlights:
KOBE BRYANT
1 — “He wanted to be the best basketball player he could be. And as I got to know him, I wanted to be the best big brother I could be.” – Michael Jordan at Kobe Bryant's memorial service. Jordan's commemoration showcased a window into the hidden bond the two legends shared.
2 — "The thing that hurt me was all the stuff that I wanted to say, I hadn't said it. I never said it." - NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal to USA TODAY's Mark Medina on his up-and-down relationship with former teammate Kobe Bryant.
COVID-19
3 — "I wish I would have taken this thing more seriously and I hope everyone else will do so because we can do it together. Take care and stay safe." – Utah Jazz forward Rudy Gobert, whose positive COVID test resulted in the immediate postponement of a Jazz-Thunder game in March and the suspension of the NBA season. Other sports leagues quickly followed suit as the virus quickly began to spread.
4 — “The first four, five days I was honestly nervous. I wouldn’t say that I thought I was going to die or anything like that, but it did cross my mind a little bit.” – Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller on contracting and recovering from COVID-19.
SPORTS POSTPONED
5 — "It feels like 162 right now ... Actually, it doesn’t feel like a shortened season, for the mental grind everyone has had to go through and change." – Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker in mid-September, on the rigors of playing a 60-game MLB season through COVID-19.
6 — “I know the NCAA is worried about the end game. They’re not as worried about the game we’re playing right now.” – Duke men's basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, who vented about the NCAA's decision to "plow" through the 2020-21 season early on amid the coronavirus pandemic in order to have March Madness after the 2020 NCAA Tournament was canceled due to the virus.
SOCIAL UNREST
7 — "I learned early on that in fighting against systematic oppression, dehumanization and colonization, who controls the narrative shapes the reality of how the world views society. It controls who’s loved, who’s hated, who’s degraded and who’s celebrated.” – former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick told USA TODAY Sports about his plight to fight against injustice and what prompted him to originally kneel during the national anthem.
8 — "How can you hear the pain Black people are going through and dismiss it as nothing? How can you hear the pain and respond with anything other than `I stand with you'?" -- Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow following Jacob Blake shooting.
9 — "It's amazing why we keep loving this country, and this country does not love us back." - Philadelphia 76ers coach and former L.A. Clippers coach Doc Rivers following the Jacob Blake shooting.
10 — "What was the message you got? ... I feel like the point is to make people start talking." – Naomi Osaka when she was asked about her pre- and post-match masks at the U.S. Open, each with the name of a different Black American killed by racial profiling or unnecessary police violence.
Naomi Osaka replies to Tom Rinaldi’s question about the message behind wearing masks with names of Black people killed on them: “Well, what was the message that you got? ... I feel like the point is to make people start talking.” pic.twitter.com/SBWGaDJqaJ — Chris Bumbaca (@BOOMbaca) September 12, 2020
11 — “We the National Football League admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We the National Football League believe Black lives matter.” – NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in June, a day after a group of NFL players challenged the NFL to join their fight against racism.
UNDERDOGS
12 — “I definitely want to extend some advice to all the kids out there: keep dreaming big. These opportunities, they’re closer than you think.” – Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Brett Phillips, after his walk-off hit made him a most unlikely hero in the Rays' 7-6 victory in Game 4 of the World Series.
13 — “That’s what (Vanderbilt coaches) have done the entire time. It was (based on) if I’m good enough to do it. It wasn’t because I was a girl." – Vanderbilt kicker Sarah Fuller, who became the first woman to score in a Power Five college football game.
14 — "How about these Fighting Rece Davises?" – Northwestern football coach Pat Fitzgerald after a comment by ESPN analyst Joey Galloway helped fuel a 17-7 victory over Wisconsin by comparing the athletic abilities of the Wildcats players to those of his ESPN colleague Rece Davis.
WINNERS
15 — “I proved that I can get it done on Sunday with the lead at a major, especially in tough conditions ... because I’m sure a lot of y’all think there were doubts in my mind, just because I had been there.” -- golfer Dustin Johnson, on putting tragic near-misses and collapses in the final rounds of past majors behind him by winning The Masters in November, a little over a month after testing positive for COVID-19.
16 — "I want to see female commissioners, presidents, owners. What I want to see most is women reaping the benefits of the work that they've sown." - L.A. Sparks forward and WNBA players association president Nneka Ogwumike to USA TODAY's Nancy Armour on the state of the league after ratifying its new collective bargaining agreement.
ICONS
17— "Listen, I can’t stop smoking. I smoked during fights. I just have to smoke, I’m sorry. I’m a smoker. … I smoke everyday. I never stopped smoking." – Mike Tyson on his usage of marijuana before fights. The 54-year-old said he smoked marijuana right before he fought Roy Jones Jr. in late November in his celebrated return to the boxing ring.
18 — "I thought it would be a big deal, but it's beyond my expectations. But it's also a testament to where we are. People are looking for hope. People are looking for inspiration. I'm happy to be a part of it." - the Miami Marlins' Kim Ng, after being named the first female general manager for a major American men's sports franchise.
19 — "I'm pissed. I'm mad because people are trying to test my character and the person that I am and my integrity. They're not stealing that from me, but trying to test that." – NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace after the FBI conducted an investigation into the noose that was found in his garage stall at Talladega Superspeedway on June 21, and determined the incident was not a federal crime because the noose was found in the same garage as early as October 2019. Wallace did not find the noose himself and NASCAR initially condemned the incident as a hate crime.
20 — "It became personal with me." – Michael Jordan in "The Last Dance," (several times) about his various opponents. With no live sports on television for months, the ESPN docu-series on the Chicago Bulls' NBA dynasty of the 1980s captivated fans. Jordan's chip-on-his-shoulder mentality spawned countless "... and I took that personally" memes on social media – even though the reaction image never actually appeared in the documentary.


usatoday--2020-12-19--Christina Aguilera embraces turning 40: 'I treasure the growth that comes with age'

Christina Aguilera celebrated her milestone birthday Friday by embracing `` arriving at 40 . ''
The Grammy Award winning artist penned a message that she posted on social media about the stigma around getting older , but explained that she 's excited about aging .
`` This ever-present social stigma exists around getting older , but I have ALWAYS embraced it !
I am forever an old soul and I appreciate the wisdom , grace and beauty that comes with each new year of life , '' she wrote .
`` I treasure the growth that comes with age and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that came before me . ''
Aguilera acknowledged the importance of this big birthday during a year where `` our world has been flipped upside down , '' but says she is `` deeply humbled and blessed '' by her life and remains optimistic about the future .
The former `` Voice '' coach shared her enthusiasm for what 's to come in her next decade .
`` I 've heard it said that some of your best life is lived in your 40 's , '' she wrote adding that there 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little things that comes with age .
`` Clarity comes over you , and a new intention sets in with every move you make .
I truly believe the best is yet to come and I am ready for it . ''
Aguilera noted she 's now a `` grown woman '' who has endured her fair share of struggles throughout her life , she 's looking forward to the `` many stories yet to be told and revealed . ''
`` I am at a place in my life where I own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the new woman I am today , and I look forward to the new chapters that will shape who I become . ''
The artist ended her note by thanking the `` rare and beautiful souls '' who 've been by her side for the last 20 years including her team and her children .
`` So , 40 , let 's ( expletive ) do this .
You have no idea what I have planned for you .
I hope you 're ready , '' she ended .
More : Everything you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competition 'The Voice '

Christina Aguilera embraces turning 40: 'I treasure the growth that comes with age'
Show Caption Hide Caption Christina Aguilera: Disney Legend honor is 'cooler than a Grammy' Christina Aguilera, Robert Downey Junior and the original voice of "Mulan," Ming-Na Wen, are named Disney Legends at D23 Expo. (Aug. 24) AP
Christina Aguilera celebrated her milestone birthday Friday by embracing "arriving at 40."
The Grammy Award winning artist penned a message that she posted on social media about the stigma around getting older, but explained that she's excited about aging.
"This ever-present social stigma exists around getting older, but I have ALWAYS embraced it! I am forever an old soul and I appreciate the wisdom, grace and beauty that comes with each new year of life," she wrote. "I treasure the growth that comes with age and I welcome the knowledge from the greats that came before me."
Aguilera acknowledged the importance of this big birthday during a year where "our world has been flipped upside down," but says she is "deeply humbled and blessed" by her life and remains optimistic about the future.
The former "Voice" coach shared her enthusiasm for what's to come in her next decade.
"I've heard it said that some of your best life is lived in your 40's," she wrote adding that there's an air of caring less about the little things that comes with age. "Clarity comes over you, and a new intention sets in with every move you make. I truly believe the best is yet to come and I am ready for it."
Aguilera noted she's now a "grown woman" who has endured her fair share of struggles throughout her life, she's looking forward to the "many stories yet to be told and revealed."
"I am at a place in my life where I own who I have been, I embrace the new woman I am today, and I look forward to the new chapters that will shape who I become."
The artist ended her note by thanking the "rare and beautiful souls" who've been by her side for the last 20 years including her team and her children.
"So, 40, let's (expletive) do this. You have no idea what I have planned for you. I hope you're ready," she ended.
More: Everything you wanted to know about NBC's singing competition 'The Voice'


usatoday--2020-12-19--Trump expected to arrive on Dec. 23 for last presidential Christmas at Mar-a-Lago

PALM BEACH , Fla. – President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Palm Beach on Dec. 23 and return to Washington , D.C. , on Jan. 3 after his last Christmas and New Years at Mar-a-Lago as president , according to a source who learned of the visit from the Secret Service .
Widespread speculation in the past week had suggested that Trump might spend his final Christmas in office in the White House , or that he might come to Mar-a-Lago and not return to Washington for President-elect Joe Biden 's inauguration on Jan. 20 .
How Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family members will join him is not known .
The first couple will not be going to Bethesda-by-the-Sea , where they have traditionally attended Christmas Eve services .
The church , where the couple married and their son Baron was baptized , is holding virtual Christmas Eve services on YouTube .
Trump and the first lady could attend live services at Family Church in West Palm Beach .
Last year , Trump broke with tradition and went to Christmas Eve services at the evangelical church during a time in the campaign when his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christian scholars .
More : The Trump effect in Palm Beach County : His presidency altered business and politics ; his personality affected the people Also unknown is whether Trump will host his annual New Year 's Eve red carpet gala .
For locals , the 12-day visit will likely be the last time roads will be closed along South Ocean Boulevard , the motorcade route to and from Palm Beach International Airport , Mar-a-Lago and Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach .
After he leaves office , South Ocean near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the former president visits his private club , according to the source .
Trump and first lady Melania Trump have declared Mar-a-Lago their legal residence and are expected to live at the club with their teenage son Baron .
Some neighbors do n't want the first family to live at the club and have gone public with their dispute .
On Tuesday , West Palm Beach attorney Reginald G. Stambaugh sent a letter to Palm Beach Mayor Gail Coniglio and the Town Council laying out the legal reasons and security concerns that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his private club .
According to Stambaugh , Trump has violated an agreement he entered into with the town after lengthy , contentious meetings in 1993 over his commitment to preserve the 18-acre estate if the town allowed him to turn Mar-a-Lago into a club .
More : For Trump , being a Florida resident is easy .
But will N.Y. let go ?
More : Mar-a-Lago neighbors say Trump forfeited right to live on estate once presidency ends Coniglio also received a fax from an organization expressing similar concerns .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ neighbor and break our laws , '' read the letter from the group calling itself The Palm Beach Committee .
Trump has made more than 30 presidential visits to Mar-a-Lago since his inauguration , and the closure of a half-mile stretch of South Ocean Boulevard has been especially difficult for neighbors and service workers who have been required to clear a Secret Service checkpoint to get to their homes .
Because South Ocean is the only thoroughfare along that stretch of the island , no other road could serve as a detour – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the island to the south required crossing a bridge to West Palm Beach .

Trump expected to arrive on Dec. 23 for last presidential Christmas at Mar-a-Lago
PALM BEACH, Fla. – President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Palm Beach on Dec. 23 and return to Washington, D.C., on Jan. 3 after his last Christmas and New Years at Mar-a-Lago as president, according to a source who learned of the visit from the Secret Service.
Widespread speculation in the past week had suggested that Trump might spend his final Christmas in office in the White House, or that he might come to Mar-a-Lago and not return to Washington for President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20.
How Trump will spend the holiday and how many family members will join him is not known. The first couple will not be going to Bethesda-by-the-Sea, where they have traditionally attended Christmas Eve services. The church, where the couple married and their son Baron was baptized, is holding virtual Christmas Eve services on YouTube.
Trump and the first lady could attend live services at Family Church in West Palm Beach. Last year, Trump broke with tradition and went to Christmas Eve services at the evangelical church during a time in the campaign when his behavior was being criticized by some evangelical Christian scholars.
More: The Trump effect in Palm Beach County: His presidency altered business and politics; his personality affected the people
Also unknown is whether Trump will host his annual New Year's Eve red carpet gala.
For locals, the 12-day visit will likely be the last time roads will be closed along South Ocean Boulevard, the motorcade route to and from Palm Beach International Airport, Mar-a-Lago and Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach.
After he leaves office, South Ocean near Mar-a-Lago will no longer be closed when the former president visits his private club, according to the source. Trump and first lady Melania Trump have declared Mar-a-Lago their legal residence and are expected to live at the club with their teenage son Baron.
Some neighbors don't want the first family to live at the club and have gone public with their dispute. On Tuesday, West Palm Beach attorney Reginald G. Stambaugh sent a letter to Palm Beach Mayor Gail Coniglio and the Town Council laying out the legal reasons and security concerns that he said should bar Trump from living at his private club.
According to Stambaugh, Trump has violated an agreement he entered into with the town after lengthy, contentious meetings in 1993 over his commitment to preserve the 18-acre estate if the town allowed him to turn Mar-a-Lago into a club.
More: For Trump, being a Florida resident is easy. But will N.Y. let go?
More: Mar-a-Lago neighbors say Trump forfeited right to live on estate once presidency ends
Coniglio also received a fax from an organization expressing similar concerns. "We don't want you to be our neighbor and break our laws," read the letter from the group calling itself The Palm Beach Committee.
Trump has made more than 30 presidential visits to Mar-a-Lago since his inauguration, and the closure of a half-mile stretch of South Ocean Boulevard has been especially difficult for neighbors and service workers who have been required to clear a Secret Service checkpoint to get to their homes.
Because South Ocean is the only thoroughfare along that stretch of the island, no other road could serve as a detour – meaning going from the north end of the island to the south required crossing a bridge to West Palm Beach.


usatoday--2020-12-19--Former Mississippi Gov. William Winter, a champion of public education and racial harmony, dies at 9

JACKSON , Miss .
– Former Mississippi Gov , William Winter , a crusader for public education and racial harmony , has died .
He was 97 .
Winter died Friday night at his home in Jackson .
Winter served as governor from 1980 to 1984 , and in 1982 ushered the passage of the Education Reform Act , the state 's first comprehensive education overhaul .
Asked about his legacy by the Clarion-Ledger , Winter said : `` In general terms , I have tried to use the opportunities I have had to make this a better place than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all in this together . ''
For more than 50 years , Winter served as a member of the Mississippi State Department of Archives and History ’ s board of trustees , and he was instrumental in the founding of the Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation at the University of Mississippi .
For these efforts , he received a special Profile in Courage Award for Lifetime Achievement from the John F. Kenney Presidential Library and Museum in Boston and a Freedom Award from the National Civil Rights Museum .
He was appointed as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Advisory Board on Race in 1997 to 1998 .
Former and current legislators responded to the news on social media .
Former governor and Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus called Winter the best governor Mississippi has ever had .
`` A beacon for equality , inclusion , ethics and education has died .
Mississippi and the USA so much better because of his life and service , '' Mabus said on Twitter .
Gov .
Tate Reeves tweeted Winters will be missed by the people of Mississippi who loved him back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his country , '' Reeves said .
`` And the people of Mississippi loved him back .
He will be missed by all of us . ''
`` Mississippi has lost a giant , and my family has lost a friend and neighbor , '' Sen. Roger Wicker said of the news .
`` Another courageous member of the greatest generation joins the great cloud of witnesses . ''
Winter was born in Grenada , Mississippi on Feb. 21 , 1923 .
The son of teachers , his signature and comprehensive education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hiring of teaching assistants and truant officers , the creation of publicly-funded kindergartens and improved reading programs for elementary schools .
A statewide testing program was implemented and the legislation addressed several other educational reforms , such as changes to teacher certification and professional development requirements , as well as accreditation programs , school district financing and qualifications for school board members .
The legislation was widely seen as ahead of its time and as one of the most progressive and comprehensive pieces of education legislation that had been passed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lengthy tenure at the department of archives and history , Winter oversaw the opening of the Eudora Welty House , the restoration of the Old Capitol and the construction of a state-of-art archives building that state legislators named for him .
His greatest legacy , according to president of the Board of Trustees , Reuben V. Anderson , was helping to convince state leaders of the need to build the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum .
Winter was instrumental in securing public and private funds for the project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will challenge all of us to have a better understanding of where we have come from , and then inspire us to work harder to find our common ideals and goals , '' Winter said at the landmark groundbreaking ceremony in December of 2017 .
`` We will find that we have much more in common than what might appear to divide us , '' he said .
Winter was also an early and longtime advocate of changing Mississippi ’ s state flag to rid it of the Confederate battle emblem .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the flag through a statewide referendum in 2001 .
Although unsuccessful , the effort would lead to renewed focus on changing the flag which was accomplished in 2020 .
“ I hope this may spark further action to meet the compelling social and economic needs of our state , '' Winter said .
Former Gov .
Phil Bryant also responded to Winter 's death .
`` Mississippi has lost a great leader and statesman .
Deborah and I offer our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of Governor William Winter upon his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We are far better for the life , service and leadership of William Winter .
Best known for his career of public service , he actually served the people of our state longer as a private citizen .
I often disagree with his politics , but I never doubted his heart for our state , '' said longtime politico Andy Taggart .
Winter served in the US Army during World War II in the Philippines .
He was elected to the state legislature in 1947 while still in law school .
He served @ @ @ @ @ @ @ War .

Justin Vicory, Mississippi Clarion Ledger

Former Mississippi Gov. William Winter, a champion of public education and racial harmony, dies at 97
JACKSON, Miss. – Former Mississippi Gov, William Winter, a crusader for public education and racial harmony, has died. He was 97.
Winter died Friday night at his home in Jackson.
Winter served as governor from 1980 to 1984, and in 1982 ushered the passage of the Education Reform Act, the state's first comprehensive education overhaul.
Asked about his legacy by the Clarion-Ledger, Winter said: "In general terms, I have tried to use the opportunities I have had to make this a better place than when I came along. We are all in this together."
Winter on Bill Minor: William Winter: Bill Minor was 'a courageous newsman'
For more than 50 years, Winter served as a member of the Mississippi State Department of Archives and History’s board of trustees, and he was instrumental in the founding of the Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation at the University of Mississippi.
For these efforts, he received a special Profile in Courage Award for Lifetime Achievement from the John F. Kenney Presidential Library and Museum in Boston and a Freedom Award from the National Civil Rights Museum. He was appointed as a member of then-President Bill Clinton’s Advisory Board on Race in 1997 to 1998.
Former and current legislators responded to the news on social media.
Mississippi has lost a giant, and my family has lost a friend and neighbor. Another courageous member of the greatest generation joins the great cloud of witnesses.
Photo by: Winter Institute Facebook pic.twitter.com/QHDCJ2nVGg — Senator Roger Wicker (@SenatorWicker) December 19, 2020
Former governor and Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus called Winter the best governor Mississippi has ever had.
"A beacon for equality, inclusion, ethics and education has died. Mississippi and the USA so much better because of his life and service," Mabus said on Twitter.
Gov. Tate Reeves tweeted Winters will be missed by the people of Mississippi who loved him back.
"He truly loved this state and his country," Reeves said. "And the people of Mississippi loved him back. He will be missed by all of us."
Elee and I are deeply saddened by the loss of former Gov. William Winter. He truly loved this state and his country. And the people of Mississippi loved him back. He will be missed by all of us. — Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) December 19, 2020
"Mississippi has lost a giant, and my family has lost a friend and neighbor," Sen. Roger Wicker said of the news. "Another courageous member of the greatest generation joins the great cloud of witnesses."
Winter was born in Grenada, Mississippi on Feb. 21, 1923. The son of teachers, his signature and comprehensive education bill included pay raises for teachers and the hiring of teaching assistants and truant officers, the creation of publicly-funded kindergartens and improved reading programs for elementary schools.
Mississippi has lost a great leader and statesman. Deborah and I offer our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of Governor William Winter upon his passing. https://t.co/5YZOVXBX4X pic.twitter.com/aKrqbngKjS — Phil Bryant (@PhilBryantMS) December 19, 2020
A statewide testing program was implemented and the legislation addressed several other educational reforms, such as changes to teacher certification and professional development requirements, as well as accreditation programs, school district financing and qualifications for school board members.
The legislation was widely seen as ahead of its time and as one of the most progressive and comprehensive pieces of education legislation that had been passed in the country at the time.
During his lengthy tenure at the department of archives and history, Winter oversaw the opening of the Eudora Welty House, the restoration of the Old Capitol and the construction of a state-of-art archives building that state legislators named for him.
His greatest legacy, according to president of the Board of Trustees, Reuben V. Anderson, was helping to convince state leaders of the need to build the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Winter was instrumental in securing public and private funds for the project, said Anderson.
"These museums will challenge all of us to have a better understanding of where we have come from, and then inspire us to work harder to find our common ideals and goals," Winter said at the landmark groundbreaking ceremony in December of 2017.
"We will find that we have much more in common than what might appear to divide us," he said.
My former boss Secretary of State Dick Molpus said it well: “Winter confronted racial, economic, and educational inequities throughout his life and fought those inequities with courage, hope, and tenacity.” — David Blount (@SenDavidBlount) December 19, 2020
Winter was also an early and longtime advocate of changing Mississippi’s state flag to rid it of the Confederate battle emblem. He helped to lead an effort to change the flag through a statewide referendum in 2001. Although unsuccessful, the effort would lead to renewed focus on changing the flag which was accomplished in 2020.
“I hope this may spark further action to meet the compelling social and economic needs of our state," Winter said.
Former Gov. Phil Bryant also responded to Winter's death.
"Mississippi has lost a great leader and statesman. Deborah and I offer our deepest condolences and prayers to the family of Governor William Winter upon his passing," Bryant tweeted.
"We are far better for the life, service and leadership of William Winter. Best known for his career of public service, he actually served the people of our state longer as a private citizen. I often disagree with his politics, but I never doubted his heart for our state," said longtime politico Andy Taggart.
Winter served in the US Army during World War II in the Philippines. He was elected to the state legislature in 1947 while still in law school. He served in the Army again during the Korean War.
Follow @justinvicory on Twitter.


usatoday--2020-12-20--Coronavirus updates: $900 billion stimulus deal near; Biden to get vaccinated Monday; 6 severe react

Coronavirus updates: $900 billion stimulus deal near; Biden to get vaccinated Monday; 6 severe reactions documented

USA TODAY is keeping track of the news surrounding COVID-19 as vaccines begin to roll out nationwide .
Just last week , the U.S. marked the stark milestone of more than 17 million cases and 300,000 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic .
Keep refreshing this page for the latest updates on vaccine distribution , including who is getting the shots and where , as well as other COVID-19 news from across the USA TODAY Network .
Sign up for our Coronavirus Watch newsletter for updates directly to your inbox , join our Facebook group or scroll through our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need to know about the coronavirus .
►Italy , Belgium , Austria and the Netherlands have banned travel from the U.K. to prevent the spread of a more infectious variant of coronavirus .
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered tighter restrictions and scrapped a plan to relax rules for the holidays .
► An impasse that had stalled stimulus talks appeared to be worked out Sunday as lawmakers scrambled to finalize a $ 900 billion deal Sunday that could avert a government shutdown .
A compromise appeared to be reached on Republican @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Federal Reserve , multiple media outlets reported .
► President-elect Joe Biden and his wife , Jill , will get vaccinated Monday , Biden 's office said .
Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and her husband , Doug Emhoff , will receive their doses the week after next .
Vice President Mike Pence and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi received their first doses Friday .
► U.S. health officials say they have seen six cases of severe allergic reaction out of more than a quarter million shots of the first authorized COVID-19 vaccine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccine began Saturday and will arrive to states Monday , said Gen. Gustave Perna , chief operating officer of Operation Warp Speed .
Meanwhile , the U.S. government is on track to deliver 20 million doses of both vaccines to states by the first week of January .
► The 2021 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race will be about 140 miles shorter than normal as a result of complications stemming from the coronavirus pandemic .
📈 Today 's numbers : The U.S. has 17.6 million confirmed coronavirus cases and 316,000 deaths , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global totals : More than 76 million cases and almost 1.7 million deaths .
Moderna coronavirus vaccines are on the way Moderna coronavirus vaccine deliveries should begin to arrive across the nation Monday , just three days after it was authorized by the Food and Drug Administration .
`` Distribution of Moderna vaccine has already begun , '' Gen. Gustave Perna , chief operating officer of Operation Warp Speed , said at a Saturday morning news briefing .
Beginning Monday , 5.9 million doses of the Moderna vaccine will go out in addition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine , bringing a total of 7.9 million more doses to the nation , Perna said .
The vaccine was being packed Saturday and `` trucks will begin rolling out tomorrow , from FedEx and UPS , delivering vaccines and kits to the American people across the United States , '' Perna said .
`` It is going to 3,700+ locations , '' he said .
`` Shipments will begin arriving Monday and continue through the week . ''
After years of isolationist and punitive immigration policies from the Trump administration , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health has , along with many people of color , been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic – might be unwilling to come forward and get vaccinated .
COVID-19 has been particularly merciless to Black , Hispanic and Asian Americans for reasons that include poverty , preexisting health conditions and front-line jobs .
This demographic includes many immigrants ; the vast majority of those undocumented are from Mexico and Central America .
Many of them are critical to farming and meatpacking , and their illness and death represent both a human tragedy and an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be fully available to undocumented Americans , if not , it will put all of us at risk , ” said Manuel Pastor , head of the Equity Research Institute at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles , which uses data and analysis to dissect equity issues .
Read more here .
Fast-moving COVID-19 strain in UK blamed for new restrictions Millions of people must cancel their Christmas get-togethers and most shops have to close in London and much of southern England , British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Saturday as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus restrictions on the region to curb rapidly spreading infections .
In announcing the more restrictive category , Johnson said a fast-moving new variant of the coronavirus that is more than 70 % more transmissible than existing strains appears to be driving the rapid spread in London and southern England .
While London fared relatively well in controlling the virus throughout the fall , the city now has the highest infection rates in England .
Officials said the new mutation accounted for about 60 % of the capital 's cases .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is more lethal or causes more severe illness , '' the prime minister stressed , or that vaccines will be less effective against it .
England 's chief medical officer , Chris Whitty , said the U.K. has alerted the World Health Organization that the new variant identified this week appears to be accelerating the spread of COVID-19 .
The government 's scientific advisers came to that conclusion based on preliminary modelling figures , and they are continuing to analyze the available data , he said .

Coronavirus updates: Congress agrees on $900B relief deal with stimulus checks; first Moderna vaccines roll out of distribution center
Show Caption Hide Caption First Moderna COVID-19 vaccines roll out of distribution center The vaccines were prepared for shipments at the McKesson distribution center in Olive Branch, Miss. USA TODAY
USA TODAY is keeping track of the news surrounding COVID-19 as vaccines begin to roll out nationwide. Just last week, the U.S. marked the stark milestone of more than 17 million cases and 300,000 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic. Keep refreshing this page for the latest updates on vaccine distribution, including who is getting the shots and where, as well as other COVID-19 news from across the USA TODAY Network. Sign up for our Coronavirus Watch newsletter for updates directly to your inbox, join our Facebook group or scroll through our in-depth answers to reader questions for everything you need to know about the coronavirus.
In the headlines:
► While acknowledging Tennessee as "ground zero for a surge in sickness," Gov. Bill Lee on Sunday night tightened statewide restrictions on social gatherings for the next 30 days but stopped short of a mask mandate. The state ranked No. 1 in the country for COVID-19 infections in the past week, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adjusted for population.
►Congressional leaders worked through an impasse and agreed Sunday on a coronavirus relief package worth about $900 billion. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., announced the deal, which would provide $600 stimulus checks for most Americans, boost unemployment benefits by up to $300 a week and enhance vaccine distribution.
►Essential workers like police officers and teachers, along with people 75 and older, will be in line to get coronavirus vaccines after the first phase, which is focusing on frontline health care workers and residents and staff of long-term care facilities.
►The nationwide spike in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths, which has hit California especially hard in recent weeks, has prompted Apple to temporarily shut down all 53 of its stores in the state and about 12 others elsewhere.
►The first shipments of the nation's second COVID-19 vaccine rolled out of a Memphis-area distribution center Sunday. Inoculations with the vaccine developed by Moderna and the National Institutes of Health are expected to begin Monday, three days after the Food and Drug Administration authorized their emergency rollout.
►Italy, Belgium, Austria and the Netherlands have banned travel from the U.K. to prevent the spread of a more infectious variant of coronavirus. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered tighter restrictions and scrapped a plan to relax rules for the holidays.
►President-elect Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, will get vaccinated Monday, Biden's office said. Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, will receive their doses the following week. Vice President Mike Pence and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi received their first doses Friday.
►U.S. health officials say they have seen six cases of severe allergic reaction out of more than a quarter million shots of the first authorized COVID-19 vaccine.
► The 2021 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race will be about 140 miles shorter than normal as a result of complications stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.
📈 Today's numbers: The U.S. has more than 17.8 million confirmed coronavirus cases and 317,500 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University data. The global totals: More than 76.7 million cases and almost 1.7 million deaths.
Here's a closer look at today's top stories:
A new variant of the coronavirus that has prompted tighter restrictions in England poses a danger because of its increased level of transmissibility, but it does not appear to be immune to vaccines.
"We should be vigilant, not worried," said Butler University associate professor Ogbonnaya Omenka, among the public health experts who noted that vaccine makers take into account virus mutations when developing their products.
Vivek Murthy, President-elect Joe Biden’s nominee for surgeon general, said Americans should not lose confidence in the new COVID-19 vaccines just because the virus has mutated.
– John Bacon
Moderna coronavirus vaccine deliveries should begin to arrive across the nation Monday, just three days after it was authorized by the Food and Drug Administration. Initial shipments of the second COVID-19 vaccine authorized in the U.S. left a Memphis-area distribution center Sunday.
The Pfizer vaccine was approved Dec. 11. The first Pfizer and Moderna shots are nearly all going to health care workers and residents of long-term care homes, based on the advice of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. The general public is expected to have access to the shots in the spring or summer.
Key workers regularly exposed to the public, such as police officers, firefighters, teachers and grocery-store employees, will be next in line for a COVID-19 vaccine priority, based on a recommendation Sunday by a CDC panel. They would follow front-line health care workers and staff and residents in long-term care facilities in receiving vaccines, possibly as early as February. The panel also voted in favor of those age 75 and older to be part of that vaccine phase.
"Essential workers are at high risk because of exposure, by virtue of being in contact with others, in performing their duties. Prevention of disease in essential workers may reduce transmission to others," said Dr. Kathleen Dooling, a CDC physician who is co-lead on the advisory panel.
– Elizabeth Weise
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says “postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.” More than 1 million people in the U.S. ignored that advice and took to the skies both Friday and Saturday, according to Transportation Security Administration figures.
Saturday's total of about 1.07 million air travelers was 57% below last year's figure at the same time, but still represents the largest surge in daily traffic at U.S. airports since Nov. 22 as people began their Thanksgiving getaways.
That's raising concerns among public health officials as the country continues to get staggered by the biggest spike in infections, hospitalizations and deaths since the pandemic began. Some of that dramatic growth has been blamed on Thanksgiving travel and gatherings. Experts note the upcoming holiday period from Christmas to New Year’s Day covers a longer stretch timespan than the Thanksgiving break.
Even prominent health officials struggle to abide by the recommendations to avoid travel and gatherings with people from outside the home. The Associated Press reports that Dr. Deborah Birx, coordinator of the White House coronavirus task force, traveled to one of her vacation properties in Delaware the day after Thanksgiving along with three generations of her family from two households.
After years of isolationist and punitive immigration policies from the Trump administration, many immigrants – whose physical and fiscal health has, along with many people of color, been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic – might be unwilling to come forward and get vaccinated. COVID-19 has been particularly merciless to Black, Hispanic and Asian Americans for reasons that include poverty, preexisting health conditions and front-line jobs. This demographic includes many immigrants; the vast majority of those undocumented are from Mexico and Central America. Many of them are critical to farming and meatpacking, and their illness and death represent both a human tragedy and an economic blow.
“The vaccine must be fully available to undocumented Americans, if not, it will put all of us at risk,” said Manuel Pastor, head of the Equity Research Institute at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, which uses data and analysis to dissect equity issues. Read more here.
– Marco della Cava, Daniel Gonzalez and Rebecca Plevin, USA TODAY Network
Contributing: The Associated Press


usatoday--2020-12-20--'SNL': Kristen Wiig murders as 'Home Alone 2' Pigeon Lady; Colin Jost makes Scarlett Johansson joke

Kristen Wiig slayed as the guest host on `` Saturday Night Live , '' especially during a skit where the former cast member portrayed the Pigeon Lady in `` Home Alone 2 : Lost in New York . ''
In fact , Wiig 's Pigeon Lady committed bloody murder in the alleged `` never before seen ! ''
moment from the 1992 movie , which reimagined a Central Park meeting with Kevin McCallister ( with `` SNL '' regular Melissa Villaseñor playing Macaulay Culkin 's part ) .
In the scene , the bird-covered Pigeon Lady ( played by Brenda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hungry and homeless .
Villaseñor 's Kevin shows off his father ’ s credit card that pays for his stay at the ritzy Plaza Hotel .
He carelessly feeds leftover pizza to the pigeons .
When he finally offers to put Pigeon Lady up at The Plaza ( `` It is Christmas after all '' ) , the Wet Bandits ( played by Kyle Mooney and Mikey Day ) show up to steal Kevin ’ s credit card .
Wiig 's Pigeon Lady moves in for the fist blows , knocking the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out as Joe Biden : Alex Moffat takes over on 'SNL' '' This is my ticket out of here .
Die ! ''
she says , stabbing them with an umbrella .
She screams `` Die , die , die '' until her own face is covered with their blood ( prompting Wiig to break character and fight laughter ) .
Villaseñor ’ s Kevin gives his famous hands-on-face scream at the sight .
The blood-drenched Pigeon Lady then wishes everyone a Merry Christmas .
'Kevin !
!
!
!
Catherine O'Hara perfectly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goes viral on TikTok In her opening monologue for the final `` SNL '' show of the season , Wiig channeled Julie Andrews .
She was joined by Maya Rudolph and Kate McKinnon to bid goodbye to a terrible 2020 with an unusual version of `` The Sound of Music '' classic `` My Favorite Things . ''
Later in the show , Colin Jost and Michael Che continued their `` Weekend Update '' tradition for the season 's final show : writing a distasteful joke and making the other tell it on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unseen until it gets read during the broadcast .
Jost got the short end of the gag , as he was forced to make a joke about wife Scarlett Johansson by Che .
In the joke , Jost read that Creed singer Scott Stapp would play Frank Sinatra in an upcoming Ronald Reagan biopic .
`` But the good news is Sammy Davis Jr. will be played by Scarlett Johansson , '' Jost read off the cue cards .
Jost put his head in his hand about the joke aimed at his wife @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Ghost in the Shell . ''
A private celebrity couple , Jost and Johannson announced their nuptials in October through a post on the Instagram page for Meals on Wheels America .

'SNL': Kristen Wiig murders as 'Home Alone 2' Pigeon Lady; Colin Jost makes Scarlett Johansson joke
Show Caption Hide Caption SNL: A new Joe Biden, Mike Pence shows off his 'guns' at vaccination "Saturday Night Live" crowns Alex Moffat as the new Joe Biden, replacing Jim Carrey as the president-elect. USA TODAY
Kristen Wiig slayed as the guest host on "Saturday Night Live," especially during a skit where the former cast member portrayed the Pigeon Lady in "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York."
In fact, Wiig's Pigeon Lady committed bloody murder in the alleged "never before seen!" moment from the 1992 movie, which reimagined a Central Park meeting with Kevin McCallister (with "SNL" regular Melissa Villaseñor playing Macaulay Culkin's part).
In the scene, the bird-covered Pigeon Lady (played by Brenda Fricker in the beloved holiday movie) is hungry and homeless. Villaseñor's Kevin shows off his father’s credit card that pays for his stay at the ritzy Plaza Hotel. He carelessly feeds leftover pizza to the pigeons.
When he finally offers to put Pigeon Lady up at The Plaza ("It is Christmas after all"), the Wet Bandits (played by Kyle Mooney and Mikey Day) show up to steal Kevin’s credit card. Wiig's Pigeon Lady moves in for the fist blows, knocking the two to the ground.
Jim Carrey out as Joe Biden: Alex Moffat takes over on 'SNL'
"This is my ticket out of here. Die!" she says, stabbing them with an umbrella.
She screams "Die, die, die" until her own face is covered with their blood (prompting Wiig to break character and fight laughter). Villaseñor’s Kevin gives his famous hands-on-face scream at the sight.
The blood-drenched Pigeon Lady then wishes everyone a Merry Christmas.
'Kevin!!!! Catherine O'Hara perfectly recreates 'Home Alone 2' cry, goes viral on TikTok
In her opening monologue for the final "SNL" show of the season, Wiig channeled Julie Andrews. She was joined by Maya Rudolph and Kate McKinnon to bid goodbye to a terrible 2020 with an unusual version of "The Sound of Music" classic "My Favorite Things."
These are definitely the words to this song. pic.twitter.com/oaqMGSGf0C — Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) December 20, 2020
Later in the show, Colin Jost and Michael Che continued their "Weekend Update" tradition for the season's final show: writing a distasteful joke and making the other tell it on the live program. The joke is unseen until it gets read during the broadcast.
Jost got the short end of the gag, as he was forced to make a joke about wife Scarlett Johansson by Che.
In the joke, Jost read that Creed singer Scott Stapp would play Frank Sinatra in an upcoming Ronald Reagan biopic.
Yes, Michael Che did just get Colin Jost to tell this joke about his wife ScarJo on #SNL pic.twitter.com/ZCIISSafif — Matt Wilstein (@mattwilstein) December 20, 2020
"But the good news is Sammy Davis Jr. will be played by Scarlett Johansson," Jost read off the cue cards. Jost put his head in his hand about the joke aimed at his wife's controversial "whitewash" casting in "Ghost in the Shell."
A private celebrity couple, Jost and Johannson announced their nuptials in October through a post on the Instagram page for Meals on Wheels America.