usatoday--2020-08-30--LeBron James unplugged: Lakers star talks resumed NBA playoffs, racial justice, Obama, Kaepernick, B

LAKE BUENA VISTA , Fla. — For a player that considers himself more than an athlete , there 's no need for Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James to stick to sports .
Now is not the time to dwell too deeply on the Lakers ’ 131-122 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday to finish their five-game first-round series , even if it marked Los Angeles ' first postseason series win since 2012 .
Now is not the time to dissect Anthony Davis ( 43 points ) and James ( 36 ) becoming the first Lakers duo in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a playoff game , even if coach Frank Vogel called them `` the two best players in the world . ''
Now is the time for James to spend the majority of his postgame press conference speaking about more worldly matters .
`` Hopefully the past couple of days is a change for the greater good and future , '' James said .
`` Hopefully we see change happening where you can look back and say that was the moment that it happened . ''
What he made of the Milwaukee Bucks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Magic to protest police shooting Jacob Blake , an unarmed Black man in the team ’ s home state .
Why James initially leaned against resuming the NBA playoffs before deciding otherwise .
What James thinks of the NBA ’ s increased commitment to racial justice initiatives .
What James made of President Obama ’ s advice , former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick offering support and actor Chadwick Boseman dying of cancer at age 43 .
And James admitting he has pondered an escape route from the Disney campus .
`` I had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaving the bubble , '' James said .
`` I think everyone has , including you guys .
I don ’ t think there hasn ’ t been one person that hasn ’ t thought in their mind , ' I got to get the hell out of here . '
Not because of what transpired , but it probably crossed my mind once a day . ''
That did not fully prepare James , however , for what happened Wednesday afternoon .
The Lakers were in the middle of a pregame nap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ floor for their game against Orlando .
So James eventually called together an emergency meeting to strategize what the Lakers might do .
James insisted he `` wasn ’ t upset at all '' that the Bucks did not alert other teams beforehand about their plan .
He added , `` I 'm not here to judge or categorize what Milwaukee did . ''
But though the Bucks then spent three hours in the locker room talking to state leaders about passing police reform and offering justice for Blake and his family , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more by spontaneity and less on any strategy .
So when NBA players from all 13 remaining playoff teams met on Wednesday night , James lost patience .
`` My mind began to figure out what is the plan going forward .
If we don ’ t have a plan , what are we talking about ?
Why are we still here ? ''
James said .
`` That ’ s where my mind went to .
At one point there was no plan of going forward .
There was no plan of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m not that type of guy .
I ’ m not a guy that doesn ’ t have a plan and then is not ready to act on it . ''
So , the Lakers left Thursday ’ s meeting with James indicating they did not want to resume the NBA playoffs .
Even if that would cost the Lakers a chance to win their first championship since 2010 .
Even if it would cost James a chance to win his fourth title and first wearing purple and gold .
Even if it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a significant amount of money for this season and next .
EAST FAVORITE : Bucks keep focus on social change after closeout win LUKA MANIA : Fans buzzing worldwide from USA to Slovenia to Spain Still , those in NBA circles believe James made that move mostly to maximize leverage with the league ’ s governors .
`` I pick my battles , '' James said .
`` I listen and see what ’ s going on with that nature .
I voice my opinion and I believe what is best .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it ’ s not just about me that comes with this league .
It 's about the other 300-plus guys I have to look out for as well . ''
James leaned on an unnamed number of advisors that he said became `` very candid and also knowledgeable about what ’ s going on . ''
It ’ s not clear if James ' agent Rich Paul or business manager Maverick Carter offered perspective .
It is clear , however , that former President Barack Obama did , though James kept those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said with a not-so-subtle dig at Donald Trump , `` President Obama is a great man ; he ’ s a great man .
I wish he was still the President of the United States . ''
The NBA players then met again Thursday morning , while the league ’ s Board of Governors held their own meeting .
Later that afternoon , players , coach and governors spoke with the league office , the players union and Michael Jordan , who has served as the NBA ’ s Labor Relations Committee Chairman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role in sharing his hopes that the NBA ’ s commitment toward addressing systemic racism went beyond the approval of kneeling during the national anthem , wearing social justice messages on jerseys and donating $ 300 million over the next 10 years for a foundation aimed to help the Black community .
`` They took it very seriously , '' James said .
`` They were candid .
We were very candid . ''
By Friday , the NBA and the players union agreed on a few items .
In every city an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , team governors would work with local election officials to turn the facility into a voting station for the Nov. 3 general election .
If that deadline passed , team governors would work with local election officials to use their venues for another election-related purpose , including a place to host voter registration drives .
A handful of NBA teams had already committed to this , including the Atlanta Hawks , Chicago Bulls , Denver Nuggets , Detroit Pistons , Los Angeles Clippers , Bucks , Minnesota Timberwolves , Memphis Grizzlies , Blazers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since the NBA and NBPA agreed to this commitment , the Golden State Warriors , Houston Rockets and Lakers all announced new plans , too .
Those efforts coincide with James founding `` More than a Vote , '' a group that has increased voter registration drives and addressed voter suppression tactics in the Black community .
`` That ’ s unbelievable and is something that we need , '' James said .
`` It ’ s something we need not only in Los Angeles , but all of our NBA cities trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 NBA arenas to open up . ''
The NBA and the players union also agreed to form a `` social justice coalition , '' which will include players , coaches and governors that will make efforts to ensure police and criminal justice reform .
The league will also work with the players and broadcast partners ( ABC/ESPN , Turner ) to include public service announcements during every playoff game about the importance of voting in national and local elections .
James and Davis stressed they will also hold the league and its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or causes that contradict the Black Lives Matter movement .
`` All you can do is get me to give us your word , '' James said .
`` I ’ m going to hold that with the utmost respect .
If the word you have given me is not fulfilled , then we ’ ll attack that moment . ''
It was only four years ago when Kaepernick tried to spark this kind of awareness by kneeling during the national anthem .
He faced immediate backlash , however , from people that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the kneeling and police officers when he wore socks depicted as pigs .
He also faced criticism when he admitted he did not vote in the presidential election .
James has had different views on voting .
But he has admired Kaepernick for `` falling on the sword for athletes at that point . ''
So James expressed gratitude when Kaepernick sent him a letter that partly said , `` Thank you for being true . ''
James posted the note on his Instagram account , writing , `` standing/kneeling right next to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` He ’ s another one of those athletes that is generational and people will think back in history with sports figures , '' James said .
`` Not only will they talk about his performance on the field , but how important he is off the field .
That ’ s one thing we always know about Muhammad Ali .
They call him the people ’ s champ .
I don ’ t think anyone calls him the people ’ s champ because of what he did in the ring . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Vietnam War , even if it hurt his professional boxing career .
That fact only reinforced in James the need to admire other accomplished Black people .
Hence , James became wistful reflecting on the death of Congressman John Lewis , former Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Boseman , whom James honored during the national anthem with the `` Wakanda Forever '' pose from the Black Panther movie .
`` Even though we knew it was a fictional story , it actually felt real .
It finally felt like we had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ touch us , '' James said .
`` To lose that is sad in our community .
To lose the Black Panther and the Black Mamba in the same year , we can all agree that 2020 is the ( crappiest ) year in my 35 years .
It ’ s not even a question . ''
James then stood up and left the interview room .
For the first time in recent days , the Lakers star was done with speaking out on issues .

LeBron James unplugged: Lakers star talks resumed NBA playoffs, racial justice, Obama, Kaepernick, Boseman
Show Caption Hide Caption Weekly Pulse Special Edition: How an NBA boycott altered America In a special edition of Weekly Pulse, Mackenzie Salmon is joined by USA TODAY Sports reporters Mark Medina, Jeff Zillgitt, Nancy Armour and Jarrett Bell for a roundtable discussion on the meteoric changes that could take place in America as a result of a historic week in sports. USA TODAY
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — For a player that considers himself more than an athlete, there's no need for Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James to stick to sports.
Now is not the time to dwell too deeply on the Lakers’ 131-122 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday to finish their five-game first-round series, even if it marked Los Angeles' first postseason series win since 2012. Now is not the time to dissect Anthony Davis (43 points) and James (36) becoming the first Lakers duo in 10 years to each score 30 points in a playoff game, even if coach Frank Vogel called them "the two best players in the world." Now is the time for James to spend the majority of his postgame press conference speaking about more worldly matters.
"Hopefully the past couple of days is a change for the greater good and future," James said. "Hopefully we see change happening where you can look back and say that was the moment that it happened."
The topics?
What he made of the Milwaukee Bucks boycotting their playoff game against the Orlando Magic to protest police shooting Jacob Blake, an unarmed Black man in the team’s home state. Why James initially leaned against resuming the NBA playoffs before deciding otherwise. What James thinks of the NBA’s increased commitment to racial justice initiatives.
LeBron James on what it took for him to be on board with resuming the season pic.twitter.com/3zIQscf5KL — Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) August 30, 2020
What James made of President Obama’s advice, former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick offering support and actor Chadwick Boseman dying of cancer at age 43. And James admitting he has pondered an escape route from the Disney campus.
"I had numerous nights and days of thinking about leaving the bubble," James said. "I think everyone has, including you guys. I don’t think there hasn’t been one person that hasn’t thought in their mind, 'I got to get the hell out of here.' Not because of what transpired, but it probably crossed my mind once a day."
That did not fully prepare James, however, for what happened Wednesday afternoon. The Lakers were in the middle of a pregame nap when the Bucks refused to take the floor for their game against Orlando. So James eventually called together an emergency meeting to strategize what the Lakers might do.
James insisted he "wasn’t upset at all" that the Bucks did not alert other teams beforehand about their plan. He added, "I'm not here to judge or categorize what Milwaukee did." But though the Bucks then spent three hours in the locker room talking to state leaders about passing police reform and offering justice for Blake and his family, the team had admitted the protest happened more by spontaneity and less on any strategy.
LeBron James details his leadership approach during the past few days pic.twitter.com/7WCqPBows5 — Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) August 30, 2020
So when NBA players from all 13 remaining playoff teams met on Wednesday night, James lost patience.
"My mind began to figure out what is the plan going forward. If we don’t have a plan, what are we talking about? Why are we still here?" James said. "That’s where my mind went to. At one point there was no plan of going forward. There was no plan of action. Me personally, I’m not that type of guy. I’m not a guy that doesn’t have a plan and then is not ready to act on it."
So, the Lakers left Thursday’s meeting with James indicating they did not want to resume the NBA playoffs. Even if that would cost the Lakers a chance to win their first championship since 2010. Even if it would cost James a chance to win his fourth title and first wearing purple and gold. Even if it would cost the NBA and its players a significant amount of money for this season and next.
UNION LEADERSHIP: Players "always unified" during protest discussions
EAST FAVORITE: Bucks keep focus on social change after closeout win
LUKA MANIA: Fans buzzing worldwide from USA to Slovenia to Spain
Still, those in NBA circles believe James made that move mostly to maximize leverage with the league’s governors.
"I pick my battles," James said. "I listen and see what’s going on with that nature. I voice my opinion and I believe what is best. You have to understand, for me personally, it’s not just about me that comes with this league. It's about the other 300-plus guys I have to look out for as well."
James leaned on an unnamed number of advisors that he said became "very candid and also knowledgeable about what’s going on." It’s not clear if James' agent Rich Paul or business manager Maverick Carter offered perspective. It is clear, however, that former President Barack Obama did, though James kept those details private, too. As James said with a not-so-subtle dig at Donald Trump, "President Obama is a great man; he’s a great man. I wish he was still the President of the United States."
The NBA players then met again Thursday morning, while the league’s Board of Governors held their own meeting. Later that afternoon, players, coach and governors spoke with the league office, the players union and Michael Jordan, who has served as the NBA’s Labor Relations Committee Chairman. Then, James took a vocal role in sharing his hopes that the NBA’s commitment toward addressing systemic racism went beyond the approval of kneeling during the national anthem, wearing social justice messages on jerseys and donating $300 million over the next 10 years for a foundation aimed to help the Black community.
"They took it very seriously," James said. "They were candid. We were very candid."
By Friday, the NBA and the players union agreed on a few items.
In every city an NBA team owns and controls its arena, team governors would work with local election officials to turn the facility into a voting station for the Nov. 3 general election. If that deadline passed, team governors would work with local election officials to use their venues for another election-related purpose, including a place to host voter registration drives.
A handful of NBA teams had already committed to this, including the Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Clippers, Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, Blazers, Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards. Since the NBA and NBPA agreed to this commitment, the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets and Lakers all announced new plans, too. Those efforts coincide with James founding "More than a Vote," a group that has increased voter registration drives and addressed voter suppression tactics in the Black community.
"That’s unbelievable and is something that we need," James said. "It’s something we need not only in Los Angeles, but all of our NBA cities trying to get all 30 franchises and all 30 NBA arenas to open up."
The NBA and the players union also agreed to form a "social justice coalition," which will include players, coaches and governors that will make efforts to ensure police and criminal justice reform. The league will also work with the players and broadcast partners (ABC/ESPN, Turner) to include public service announcements during every playoff game about the importance of voting in national and local elections. James and Davis stressed they will also hold the league and its governors accountable in not donating to candidates or causes that contradict the Black Lives Matter movement.
"All you can do is get me to give us your word," James said. "I’m going to hold that with the utmost respect. If the word you have given me is not fulfilled, then we’ll attack that moment."
It was only four years ago when Kaepernick tried to spark this kind of awareness by kneeling during the national anthem. He faced immediate backlash, however, from people that contended he was disrespecting the military with the kneeling and police officers when he wore socks depicted as pigs. He also faced criticism when he admitted he did not vote in the presidential election.
James has had different views on voting. But he has admired Kaepernick for "falling on the sword for athletes at that point." So James expressed gratitude when Kaepernick sent him a letter that partly said, "Thank you for being true." James posted the note on his Instagram account, writing, "standing/kneeling right next to you brother! Appreciate you."
"He’s another one of those athletes that is generational and people will think back in history with sports figures," James said. "Not only will they talk about his performance on the field, but how important he is off the field. That’s one thing we always know about Muhammad Ali. They call him the people’s champ. I don’t think anyone calls him the people’s champ because of what he did in the ring."
It is because Ali refused to serve in the Vietnam War, even if it hurt his professional boxing career. That fact only reinforced in James the need to admire other accomplished Black people. Hence, James became wistful reflecting on the death of Congressman John Lewis, former Lakers star Kobe Bryant and Boseman, whom James honored during the national anthem with the "Wakanda Forever" pose from the Black Panther movie.
"Even though we knew it was a fictional story, it actually felt real. It finally felt like we had our black superhero, and nobody can touch us," James said. "To lose that is sad in our community. To lose the Black Panther and the Black Mamba in the same year, we can all agree that 2020 is the (crappiest) year in my 35 years. It’s not even a question."
James then stood up and left the interview room. For the first time in recent days, the Lakers star was done with speaking out on issues.
Follow USA TODAY NBA writer Mark Medina on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.


usatoday--2020-08-29--Fact check: Ballot envelopes with prepaid postage are already first-class mail

The claim : Adding a stamp to your postage paid ballot will force USPS to handle it as first class instead of bulk .
As Election Day approaches and worries over delays and staffing issues inside the U.S .
Postal Service continue , some have begun to question whether election mail could get lost in the system , and whether there is a way for voters to increase the chances their ballots make it to the box .
`` Adding a stamp to your postage paid ballot will force USPS to handle it as first class instead of bulk .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Adams in a Facebook post that has been shared more than 200,000 times .
Although Adams did not return USA TODAY 's request for comment , he elaborated on his argument in the comments of the post .
When a commenter stated , correctly , that election mail is already largely handled as first class , Adams tried to predict a possible policy shift .
`` WAS always treated as first class , '' he said , claiming , `` the new postmaster general was directing that it would now be treated as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right in his elaboration — in states where ballots are postage-paid , they 're already treated as first-class mail , USPS confirmed .
His comments become inaccurate when he speculates on what may happen in the future .
Since March , the postal service has been communicating with local election officials across the country on how to simplify and expedite the process of voting by mail , the agency said on its website .
`` Due to COVID-19 , there ’ s been an increase in the number of jurisdictions expanding or initiating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effort keeps local and state election officials informed about mailing procedures and our operational standards , '' the website explains .
USPS spokeswoman Kim Frum told USA TODAY that mailing a ballot is a safe way to vote .
“ The U.S. Mail remains a secure , efficient and effective means for citizens to participate in the electoral process , and the Postal Service is proud to serve as a critical component of our nation ’ s democratic process , ” Frum said .
But states differ in how vote-by-mail ballots get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some states provide voters with sufficient postage .
`` If postage on a returning ballot envelope is prepaid by election officials it is First-Class Mail , so adding postage to the envelope is unnecessary and will not enhance service , '' U.S .
Postal Service spokesperson Susan Wright said in an email .
In states where postage is not prepaid , voters are responsible for attaching the right postage .
`` Voters should ensure that the appropriate postage is affixed to their return ballot envelope , '' Wright said .
Only 17 states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Conference of State Legislatures report from July .
They include : Arizona , California , Delaware , Hawaii , Idaho , Iowa , Maryland , Minnesota , Missouri , Nevada , New Mexico , Oregon , Rhode Island , Virginia , Washington , West Virginia and Wisconsin .
In New Jersey , county clerks may provide postage-paid envelopes at their discretion .
In all other states , it 's up to the voter to make sure they add the right postage .
`` The Postal Service is fully capable and committed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ securely and on time pursuant to our well-established practices and procedures , and doing so is our number one priority between now and Election Day , '' Wright said .
`` Furthermore , in recognition of the importance and time-sensitivity of returning ballots , ... we will continue to advance all Election Mail and move it through our network expeditiously . ''
A record number of Tennesseans applied to vote by mail ahead of an August primary , prompting questions over what postage was necessary to return a ballot .
At that time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not typically the policy of the postal service to deliver mail with insufficient postage , there may be situations in which election mail is pushed through and paid for later .
`` If a return ballot is nevertheless entered into the mailstream with insufficient or unpaid postage , it is the Postal Service ’ s policy not to delay the delivery of completed absentee or vote-by-mail ballots , '' Wright said in July .
The Postal Service may bill the appropriate board of elections for the necessary postage , in such a situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ research , the claim that adding stamp will make a prepaid vote-by-mail ballot first-class mail is FALSE .
In states where postage is pre-paid by election commissions , the ballots are already marked first-class and ready to go .
Adding a stamp to a prepaid ballot will not change the way the USPS handles it , an agency spokeswoman confirmed .
In other states , it 's incumbent upon voters to attach the proper postage .
• National Conference of State Legislatures , Voting Outside the Polling Place , July 17 , Table @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms @ tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @ MariahTimms .
Thank you for supporting our journalism .
You can subscribe to our print edition , ad-free app or electronic newspaper replica here .
Our fact check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook .

Fact check: Ballot envelopes with prepaid postage are already first-class mail
Show Caption Hide Caption How the US Postal Service found itself in debt The U.S. Postal Service is facing record demand because of COVID-19 and the upcoming election. Does it have the funds to rise to the occasion? Just the FAQs, USA TODAY
The claim: Adding a stamp to your postage paid ballot will force USPS to handle it as first class instead of bulk.
As Election Day approaches and worries over delays and staffing issues inside the U.S. Postal Service continue, some have begun to question whether election mail could get lost in the system, and whether there is a way for voters to increase the chances their ballots make it to the box.
"Adding a stamp to your postage paid ballot will force USPS to handle it as first class instead of bulk. Pass it on," advised Rik Adams in a Facebook post that has been shared more than 200,000 times. Although Adams did not return USA TODAY's request for comment, he elaborated on his argument in the comments of the post.
When a commenter stated, correctly, that election mail is already largely handled as first class, Adams tried to predict a possible policy shift.
More: Fact check: Online post questioning voting by mail is missing context
"WAS always treated as first class," he said, claiming, "the new postmaster general was directing that it would now be treated as bulk mail."
Adams is partly right in his elaboration — in states where ballots are postage-paid, they're already treated as first-class mail, USPS confirmed. His comments become inaccurate when he speculates on what may happen in the future.
USPS preparing for more mailed ballots
Since March, the postal service has been communicating with local election officials across the country on how to simplify and expedite the process of voting by mail, the agency said on its website.
"Due to COVID-19, there’s been an increase in the number of jurisdictions expanding or initiating mail-in voting options. Our national education effort keeps local and state election officials informed about mailing procedures and our operational standards," the website explains.
USPS spokeswoman Kim Frum told USA TODAY that mailing a ballot is a safe way to vote.
“The U.S. Mail remains a secure, efficient and effective means for citizens to participate in the electoral process, and the Postal Service is proud to serve as a critical component of our nation’s democratic process,” Frum said.
Adding a stamp won't change how USPS processes election mail
But states differ in how vote-by-mail ballots get to the local board of elections office. Some states provide voters with sufficient postage.
"If postage on a returning ballot envelope is prepaid by election officials it is First-Class Mail, so adding postage to the envelope is unnecessary and will not enhance service," U.S. Postal Service spokesperson Susan Wright said in an email.
More: Fact check: New postmaster general invested in Postal Service competitors
In states where postage is not prepaid, voters are responsible for attaching the right postage.
"Voters should ensure that the appropriate postage is affixed to their return ballot envelope," Wright said.
Only 17 states pre-pay return postage, according to a National Conference of State Legislatures report from July. They include: Arizona, California, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. In New Jersey, county clerks may provide postage-paid envelopes at their discretion.
In all other states, it's up to the voter to make sure they add the right postage.
"The Postal Service is fully capable and committed to delivering the nation’s election mail securely and on time pursuant to our well-established practices and procedures, and doing so is our number one priority between now and Election Day," Wright said. "Furthermore, in recognition of the importance and time-sensitivity of returning ballots, ... we will continue to advance all Election Mail and move it through our network expeditiously."
More: Fact check: Voters should request ballots 2 weeks early, but mail isn't intentionally slow
A record number of Tennesseans applied to vote by mail ahead of an August primary, prompting questions over what postage was necessary to return a ballot.
At that time, Wright confirmed that although it was not typically the policy of the postal service to deliver mail with insufficient postage, there may be situations in which election mail is pushed through and paid for later.
"If a return ballot is nevertheless entered into the mailstream with insufficient or unpaid postage, it is the Postal Service’s policy not to delay the delivery of completed absentee or vote-by-mail ballots," Wright said in July.
The Postal Service may bill the appropriate board of elections for the necessary postage, in such a situation, she said.
Our rating: False
Based on our research, the claim that adding stamp will make a prepaid vote-by-mail ballot first-class mail is FALSE. In states where postage is pre-paid by election commissions, the ballots are already marked first-class and ready to go. Adding a stamp to a prepaid ballot will not change the way the USPS handles it, an agency spokeswoman confirmed. In other states, it's incumbent upon voters to attach the proper postage.
Our fact-check sources:
Reach reporter Mariah Timms at mtimms@tennessean.com or 615-259-8344 and on Twitter @MariahTimms.
Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or electronic newspaper replica here.
Our fact check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.
This fact check is available at IFCN’s 2020 US Elections FactChat #Chatbot on WhatsApp. Click here, for more.


usatoday--2020-08-30--Mitch Albom: Hey, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, let the curtain rise on movie theaters

Now that our governor is finished with her shark week , perhaps she can bite into a small but persistent inequity in our COVID-19 shutdowns that , frankly , has gone on too long .
They have been closed in Michigan , with the exception of the Traverse City and Upper Peninsula regions , for nearly six months , since the earliest days of our pandemic response .
Many want to know why .
We have reopened stores .
Reopened bars .
Reopened restaurants .
Reopened casinos .
We ’ ve even reopened hair and nail salons , where customer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact with each other .
Yet movie theaters remain shuttered , and players in the local industry claim they have never been given a real reason , despite frequent pleas for relief .
“ I think that was really the root of my frustration , ” says Paul Glantz , chairman of Emagine Entertainment , which operates 10 theaters in the state .
“ I felt like if we were closed for all this time , we were entitled to understand what differentiated movie theaters from other venues.
” It ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think about it , the biggest issues of virus spread are more easily addressed in movie theaters than in many entities which already have a green light .
Comparatively , going to a movie is safe Take social distancing .
Movie theaters have an easy solution : Don ’ t sell seats to different parties closer than 6 feet apart .
Boom .
Done .
And since the act of watching a movie is generally a sit-still-for-2-hours activity , there ’ s far less chance of interaction , even casual , than at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Also , what ’ s the biggest risk we are constantly warned about with COVID-19 ?
Prolonged exposure to someone breathing virus-tinged droplets in your direction .
This comes mostly from one , loud conversation ; two , singing ; three , heavy breathing .
The first two are not even allowed in movie theaters and the third is hardly common there , no matter how exciting a film gets .
Let ’ s face it .
You drive up .
You go in .
You get your seats .
You sit quietly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — all while wearing masks , no different than going to a McDonald 's — and when you ’ re done , you go back to your car .
Compared to offices , bars or food places , there is minimal conversation .
Compared to getting hair or nails done , it ’ s hardly a close encounter .
So why do locks remain on theater doors ?
“ I appreciate the job the governor has , ” says Jon Goldstein , who owns Maple Theater and Riviera Cinema in metro Detroit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult job , especially in a pandemic , and she ’ s done really good work in protecting us .
But I think she ’ s missed the boat in a couple of places , and one of them is theaters .
I think she must think we want to open to packed houses of people , all sitting together .
That ’ s not the way we want to do it .
“ We spent a lot of time , like she says , gathering data and talking to experts , everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t been able to break through .
It makes you wonder what ’ s going on .
You still get your property tax bills from your government municipalities .
How do they expect me to pay those is if they won ’ t let me open ?
” Goldstein ’ s case feels more acute because , like Glantz , he also co-owns theaters in Minnesota , which were allowed to open in mid-June .
In fact , more than 40 states now have movie theaters open in various stages .
Goldstein says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there have been zero instances of COVID-19 spread , zero complaints , and zero problems with state officials .
“ The local health department officials do come in , '' he says .
`` They look around .
They see what we ’ re doing .
They say this is fine.
” So why not in Michigan ?
Perhaps those in charge envision “ Star Wars ” openings , people packing in seats , awkwardly edging past one another , back and forth , lines in bathrooms and concession stands .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposed — and frankly , won ’ t be happening for a long time .
According to a recent survey conducted by Morning Consult , a market research company , only around 17 % of consumers say they feel comfortable going to the movies .
There is a dearth of new product — and won ’ t be much coming — so the draw isn ’ t close to pre-COVID days .
And , most importantly , the theaters themselves are not proposing crowds .
Glantz says he would have two full seats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spaces of “ 6 feet side to side and 7 feet front to back.
” And as he points out , in a movie theater , unlike a restaurant , “ everyone is facing the same direction.
” Actual audience would be a fraction of capacity .
In his Minnesota theater , Goldstein says , he ’ s doing “ 150 people a day in a 15-theater facility.
” You can have your own section with those numbers .
There have been concerns in the past that air conditioning could somehow spread the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glantz says his theaters have all been reviewed with mechanical engineers , ensuring the proper “ air displacement.
” And honestly , how is theater air conditioning a different concern than casino , restaurant , or small retail store air conditioning ?
'If we can just stop burning cash ... ' Now , you might ask how can a theater survive with such limited seating — and therefore limited customers ?
The truth is , if you take a weekly average , movie theaters generally operate at maybe a 25 % capacity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For every packed Friday night , there ’ s theaters with six people in them on a Wednesday afternoon .
During COVID-19 , owners figure that by showing whatever limited new product comes out in multiple theaters ( a new blockbuster Christopher Nolan movie is due soon , for example ) they can make back some of what they used to take in on a big weekend by spreading the audience out over multiple venues.. And , as Goldstein says , “ If we can just stop burning cash , that would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay our property taxes.
” You ’ d think the government would want that .
Now , I know there are other business which cater to the public that are also still locked down , and equally upset .
Gyms and health clubs , for one .
Concert venues .
Sporting arenas .
But in each of those cases , you can find things that you don ’ t find in movie theaters .
The respiration and perspiration issues in a gym .
The needed numbers to justify a concert .
And while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many are still in action and therefore making money through their TV deals .
Sports opinion : Milwaukee Bucks ' decision not to play NBA playoff game will alter the course of history But a closed movie theater does no business .
The good news is that Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer indicated she might take a fresh look at the industry this week .
Owners such as Glantz and Goldstein are trying to be hopeful .
A lawsuit filed earlier this summer by Emagine against the governor and other officials was denied by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adversarial position ( against ) the governor has not proven to be effective , ” Glantz admits .
“ So we ’ re going to smile and support the governor 's efforts and insure that we are there to protect the safety and health of our guests as soon as we 're allowed to open.
” She should let that happen .
Now .
The current COVID numbers don ’ t prohibit it .
And people ’ s judgment — which we are relying on in many other places — should at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facility .
It seems only fair .
Besides , theaters have been showing old movies to fill their seats .
So , in appreciation of Gov .
Whitmer , they could bring back “ Jaws.
” And then it would really be shark week …well , you know .
Mitch Albom is a columnist for the Detroit Free Press , where this column originally appeared .
Check out the latest updates with his charities , books and events at MitchAlbom.com .
Download “ The Sports Reporters ” podcast each Monday and Thursday on-demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spotify and more .
Follow him on Twitter @ mitchalbom .

Mitch Albom: Hey, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, let the curtain rise on movie theaters Most movie theaters in Michigan have been closed for nearly six months. Why? Stores are open. Bars are open. Casinos are open. What's the point?
Now that our governor is finished with her shark week, perhaps she can bite into a small but persistent inequity in our COVID-19 shutdowns that, frankly, has gone on too long.
Movie theaters.
They have been closed in Michigan, with the exception of the Traverse City and Upper Peninsula regions, for nearly six months, since the earliest days of our pandemic response. Many want to know why. We have reopened stores. Reopened bars. Reopened restaurants. Reopened casinos. We’ve even reopened hair and nail salons, where customer and employee by definition come in close contact with each other.
Yet movie theaters remain shuttered, and players in the local industry claim they have never been given a real reason, despite frequent pleas for relief.
“I think that was really the root of my frustration,” says Paul Glantz, chairman of Emagine Entertainment, which operates 10 theaters in the state. “I felt like if we were closed for all this time, we were entitled to understand what differentiated movie theaters from other venues.”
It’s a good question. Because, if you think about it, the biggest issues of virus spread are more easily addressed in movie theaters than in many entities which already have a green light.
Comparatively, going to a movie is safe
Take social distancing. Movie theaters have an easy solution: Don’t sell seats to different parties closer than 6 feet apart. Boom. Done. And since the act of watching a movie is generally a sit-still-for-2-hours activity, there’s far less chance of interaction, even casual, than at a restaurant, bar or casino.
Also, what’s the biggest risk we are constantly warned about with COVID-19? Prolonged exposure to someone breathing virus-tinged droplets in your direction. This comes mostly from one, loud conversation; two, singing; three, heavy breathing. The first two are not even allowed in movie theaters and the third is hardly common there, no matter how exciting a film gets.
Let’s face it. You drive up. You go in. You get your seats. You sit quietly. Maybe you buy popcorn and drinks — all while wearing masks, no different than going to a McDonald's — and when you’re done, you go back to your car.
Compared to offices, bars or food places, there is minimal conversation. Compared to getting hair or nails done, it’s hardly a close encounter.
So why do locks remain on theater doors?
Keeping the curtain down
“I appreciate the job the governor has,” says Jon Goldstein, who owns Maple Theater and Riviera Cinema in metro Detroit. “I think it’s a difficult job, especially in a pandemic, and she’s done really good work in protecting us. But I think she’s missed the boat in a couple of places, and one of them is theaters. I think she must think we want to open to packed houses of people, all sitting together. That’s not the way we want to do it.
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“We spent a lot of time, like she says, gathering data and talking to experts, everything she advocated. Yet we haven’t been able to break through. It makes you wonder what’s going on. You still get your property tax bills from your government municipalities. How do they expect me to pay those is if they won’t let me open?”
Goldstein’s case feels more acute because, like Glantz, he also co-owns theaters in Minnesota, which were allowed to open in mid-June. In fact, more than 40 states now have movie theaters open in various stages. Goldstein says in two months of operating in Minnesota, there have been zero instances of COVID-19 spread, zero complaints, and zero problems with state officials.
“The local health department officials do come in," he says. "They look around. They see what we’re doing. They say this is fine.”
So why not in Michigan? Perhaps those in charge envision “Star Wars” openings, people packing in seats, awkwardly edging past one another, back and forth, lines in bathrooms and concession stands. But that level of business is not being proposed — and frankly, won’t be happening for a long time.
According to a recent survey conducted by Morning Consult, a market research company, only around 17% of consumers say they feel comfortable going to the movies. There is a dearth of new product — and won’t be much coming — so the draw isn’t close to pre-COVID days.
And, most importantly, the theaters themselves are not proposing crowds. Glantz says he would have two full seats between every party, which would create spaces of “6 feet side to side and 7 feet front to back.” And as he points out, in a movie theater, unlike a restaurant, “everyone is facing the same direction.”
Actual audience would be a fraction of capacity. In his Minnesota theater, Goldstein says, he’s doing “150 people a day in a 15-theater facility.” You can have your own section with those numbers.
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There have been concerns in the past that air conditioning could somehow spread the virus through a theater. Again, Glantz says his theaters have all been reviewed with mechanical engineers, ensuring the proper “air displacement.” And honestly, how is theater air conditioning a different concern than casino, restaurant, or small retail store air conditioning?
'If we can just stop burning cash ...'
Now, you might ask how can a theater survive with such limited seating — and therefore limited customers? The truth is, if you take a weekly average, movie theaters generally operate at maybe a 25% capacity. And that’s in good times. For every packed Friday night, there’s theaters with six people in them on a Wednesday afternoon.
During COVID-19, owners figure that by showing whatever limited new product comes out in multiple theaters (a new blockbuster Christopher Nolan movie is due soon, for example) they can make back some of what they used to take in on a big weekend by spreading the audience out over multiple venues..
And, as Goldstein says, “If we can just stop burning cash, that would be huge. We could at least pay our property taxes.”
You’d think the government would want that.
Now, I know there are other business which cater to the public that are also still locked down, and equally upset. Gyms and health clubs, for one. Concert venues. Sporting arenas.
But in each of those cases, you can find things that you don’t find in movie theaters. The respiration and perspiration issues in a gym. The needed numbers to justify a concert. And while sporting events are sacrificing box office, many are still in action and therefore making money through their TV deals.
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But a closed movie theater does no business. The good news is that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer indicated she might take a fresh look at the industry this week. Owners such as Glantz and Goldstein are trying to be hopeful. A lawsuit filed earlier this summer by Emagine against the governor and other officials was denied by a judge last month.
“An adversarial position (against) the governor has not proven to be effective,” Glantz admits. “So we’re going to smile and support the governor's efforts and insure that we are there to protect the safety and health of our guests as soon as we're allowed to open.”
She should let that happen. Now. The current COVID numbers don’t prohibit it. And people’s judgment — which we are relying on in many other places — should at least be tried in a quiet, well-spaced facility. It seems only fair.
Besides, theaters have been showing old movies to fill their seats. So, in appreciation of Gov. Whitmer, they could bring back “Jaws.” And then it would really be shark week …well, you know.
Mitch Albom is a columnist for the Detroit Free Press, where this column originally appeared. Check out the latest updates with his charities, books and events at MitchAlbom.com. Download “The Sports Reporters” podcast each Monday and Thursday on-demand through Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify and more. Follow him on Twitter @mitchalbom.


usatoday--2020-08-30--Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers asks Donald Trump to 'reconsider' planned visit to Kenosha after Jacob Bla

MILWAUKEE – President Donald Trump plans to visit Kenosha on Tuesday to meet with law enforcement and survey damage from a week of unrest in the Wisconsin city , according to a White House pool report .
No other details were immediately available about the visit , which was announced Saturday night .
The announcement comes a day after Trump addressed the Kenosha Police Department ’ s shooting of Jacob Blake for the first time .
But , on Sunday , Wisconsin Gov .
Tony Evers sent a letter to Trump urging him to `` reconsider '' the visit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` particularly difficult '' and community across the state are dealing with `` extraordinary grief . ''
Evers said Kenosha is `` exhausted and heartbroken with the division that has ripped apart their community , '' but is also working to rebuild .
`` I , along with other community leaders who have reached out , are concerned about what your presence will mean for Kenosha and our state , '' Evers wrote .
`` I am concerned your presence will only hinder our healing .
I am concerned your presence will only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move forward together . ''
After a rally in New Hampshire on Friday , Trump said of the shooting : “ It was not a good sight .
I didn ’ t like the sight of it , certainly , and I think most people would agree with that , ” according to CNN .
Trump referenced Kenosha during the Republican National Convention but did not make specific remarks about the shooting that left Blake , 29 , paralyzed from the waist down after being shot seven times in the back at point-blank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23 .
More : Kenosha videos of shootings prompt fierce debate over race and justice Earlier Saturday during a news conference , Trump was asked if he would visit the city , and he said “ probably so ” because of the presence of National Guard troops .
“ With Kenosha it ’ s been in very , very good shape from the moment they set foot in that area , ” he said .
National Guard troops first arrived in Kenosha on Monday , but unrest persisted in the city the following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two people were shot to death and a third was injured .
Kyle Rittenhouse , 17 , of Antioch , Illinois , has been charged in connection to the killings .
More : 'People 's worst fears ' came alive in Kenosha : Guns , militia inject chilling dimension into protests When asked about that shooting Saturday , Trump said he would comment on it in 24 to 48 hours after receiving more information .
Kenosha has seen peaceful demonstrations in recent days , continuing into Saturday evening after a Blake family march @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , the number of National Guard troops in Kenosha has swelled to more than 1,000 , with troops from Michigan , Alabama and Arizona on the way , according to Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp .
Evers detailed the amount of National Guard troops and work of emergency responders in his letter to Trump .
Evers wrote he is concerned an in-person visit from Trump `` will require a massive redirection '' of resource to support his visit `` at a time when it is critical that we continue to remain focused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and supporting the community 's response . ''

Elliot Hughes, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers asks Donald Trump to 'reconsider' planned visit to Kenosha after Jacob Blake shooting
Show Caption Hide Caption 'We'll see what happens:' Trump discusses Kenosha and plan to visit President Trump talked about Kenosha and how well it's doing before his planned visit, but Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers is urging him to 'reconsider' after a week of unrest. USA TODAY, Associated Press
MILWAUKEE – President Donald Trump plans to visit Kenosha on Tuesday to meet with law enforcement and survey damage from a week of unrest in the Wisconsin city, according to a White House pool report.
No other details were immediately available about the visit, which was announced Saturday night. The announcement comes a day after Trump addressed the Kenosha Police Department’s shooting of Jacob Blake for the first time.
But, on Sunday, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers sent a letter to Trump urging him to "reconsider" the visit. He said the past week has been "particularly difficult" and community across the state are dealing with "extraordinary grief."
Evers said Kenosha is "exhausted and heartbroken with the division that has ripped apart their community," but is also working to rebuild.
"I, along with other community leaders who have reached out, are concerned about what your presence will mean for Kenosha and our state," Evers wrote. "I am concerned your presence will only hinder our healing. I am concerned your presence will only delay our work to overcome division and move forward together."
After a rally in New Hampshire on Friday, Trump said of the shooting: “It was not a good sight. I didn’t like the sight of it, certainly, and I think most people would agree with that,” according to CNN.
Trump referenced Kenosha during the Republican National Convention but did not make specific remarks about the shooting that left Blake, 29, paralyzed from the waist down after being shot seven times in the back at point-blank range by Officer Rusten Sheskey on Aug. 23.
Jacob Blake shooting timeline: What events led to the shooting Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old Black man, was shot by Kenosha, Wisconsin, police on August 19. Here's a detailed timeline of events. USA TODAY
More: Kenosha videos of shootings prompt fierce debate over race and justice
Earlier Saturday during a news conference, Trump was asked if he would visit the city, and he said “probably so” because of the presence of National Guard troops.
“With Kenosha it’s been in very, very good shape from the moment they set foot in that area,” he said.
National Guard troops first arrived in Kenosha on Monday, but unrest persisted in the city the following two nights. On Tuesday night, two people were shot to death and a third was injured. Kyle Rittenhouse, 17, of Antioch, Illinois, has been charged in connection to the killings.
More: 'People's worst fears' came alive in Kenosha: Guns, militia inject chilling dimension into protests
Wisconsin Gov., Lt. Gov. address police involved shooting in Kenosha Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes gave a video address in response to the police involved shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha. USA TODAY, Associated Press
When asked about that shooting Saturday, Trump said he would comment on it in 24 to 48 hours after receiving more information.
Kenosha has seen peaceful demonstrations in recent days, continuing into Saturday evening after a Blake family march that drew thousands of participants and onlookers.
Meanwhile, the number of National Guard troops in Kenosha has swelled to more than 1,000, with troops from Michigan, Alabama and Arizona on the way, according to Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp.
Evers detailed the amount of National Guard troops and work of emergency responders in his letter to Trump.
Evers wrote he is concerned an in-person visit from Trump "will require a massive redirection" of resource to support his visit "at a time when it is critical that we continue to remain focused on keeping the people of Kenosha safe and supporting the community's response."
Follow Elliot Hughes on Twitter @elliothughes12
Contributing: Jordan Culver, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-08-30--Family members of COVID-19 victim sue Michigan nursing home that didn't allow staff to wear masks

DETROIT – Dennis Williams is haunted by the memory of his mother , Wanda Parker , through the window at a Michigan nursing home .
He said she was begging for help .
It was the last time he saw his 68-year-old mother alive .
She died of COVID-19 on April 7 , two days after she was transported to a hospital from the Villages of Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation .
Williams said he remembers seeing employees of the facility not wearing masks , gloves or other personal protective equipment ( PPE ) during his through-the-window visits with his mother @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aware of the significantly lower COVID-19 statistics reported at the other nursing homes in the area .
`` They ( the facilities ) actually took the precautions , '' the Lapeer , Michigan , man said .
`` And that 's what pisses me off , is that when we 'd go see mom through the window and it was n't the workers ' fault – I had talked to several of them – they just were just being told they could not wear the stuff . ''
`` The stuff '' was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two former employees and their lawyers said were donated by the community , but kept away from the staff .
Williams , his step-father and his brother are suing the nursing home .
So are three former employees , all certified nursing assistants , who contracted the virus and who allege the nursing home refused to test residents or staff , to let employees stay home unless they had a fever and to allow employees to wear masks or PPE during the initial weeks after the pandemic hit Michigan in mid-March .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off her face by the director of nursing , who told her she was scaring patients .
Nineteen residents at the Villages of Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation , an 87-bed facility , have died of COVID-19 , according to data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services .
That is more than half of the 34 COVID-19 deaths in Lapeer County to date .
On April 8 , the day after Parker died , the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs began a survey of the nursing home and declared @ @ @ @ @ @ @ report .
The state report supports the allegations of management barring staff from wearing PPE .
The Villages of Lapeer provided this statement to the Detroit Free Press of the USA TODAY Network last week : '' Due to the fact that the matters being inquired about are ongoing , we are not in a position to provide comment .
We can say that The Villages of Lapeer has been and will continue to cooperate with the involved parties , '' it stated .
`` Please be assured that The Villages of Lapeer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quality care and support to our residents and their families , as well as support for all of our staff during these challenging times . ''
Attorneys representing the nursing home did not respond to calls and emails .
Williams ' lawsuit also names Jill Vankerschaver , identified as the former director of nursing who resigned April 7 .
A woman who answered the phone for a telephone listing for Vankerschaver said : `` I 'm not interested .
You have a nice day , '' before hanging up on a Free Press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screw-up' Three lawsuits were filed in Lapeer County Circuit Court in June against Davis & Davis Management Group , the LLC that owns the Villages of Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation .
Medicare.gov listed the owners and directors of the Villages of Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation as Michael Davis and Thomas Davis , two doctors who are also brothers .
The Free Press could not immediately reach the Davises on Friday .
In an April 9 article on Flint , Michigan , TV station ABC12 , Thomas Davis was quoted as saying : `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients and everything is being followed by the letter .
And , I do n't want people to be worried about their loved ones that are in there . ''
In a follow-up article the next day , after Parker 's family raised concerns about her death , the station quoted Davis as saying there was a shortage of PPE across the country .
`` We were not being negligent , we were doing everything we could , believe me , '' he told the television station .
No responses had been filed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dates had been set as of last Wednesday , according to Lapeer County Circuit Court .
Williams ' lawsuit and one filed by Taylor Minifield and Tasha Harden , both of Flint , each seek more than $ 1 million in damages .
The third lawsuit , filed by Shanika Johnson of Flint , seeks more than $ 25,000 .
Their attorneys say the nursing home 's actions amounted to gross negligence and egregious circumstances .
“ When you rip the face mask off of a person … that ’ s active , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s reckless , '' said Jim Rasor , one of the attorneys , told the Free Press .
`` This is not just a screw-up .
This is not a mistake .
This is actively , recklessly putting people in a horrible or deadly disease . ''
Co-counsel Andrew Laurila agreed , saying : `` Here we had a willful refusal to allow people to wear PPE . ''
Yet , they said , a March 27 post on the facility 's Facebook page shows homemade masks and N95 masks and states : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to us , and we are SO grateful ! ''
Minifield said she saw masks come in and go into the director of nursing 's office .
`` She kept ‘ em in there .
She never brought ‘ em out .
I asked her in the hallway , like , can we bring in donated masks , and she said , 'Oh yeah , I have a lot of them in my office .
I ’ ve got them for emergency purposes only , ' '' Harden recalled .
`` I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency , ( because ) that was an emergency . ''
The lawsuit filed by Minifield and Harden states that starting in the middle of March they saw employees and staff beginning to show signs of the virus .
It alleges that during the week of March 16 , the director of nursing told all staff they were not allowed to wear PPE , specifically but not limited to masks , because it would `` scare the residents . ''
Minifield cared not only for residents such as Parker , but also at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being treated for cancer .
She said wore her own mask to work at the end of March for her safety and the safety of the residents .
The director of nursing , she said , removed it from her face .
“ She said you have to take that off because basically you ’ re scaring the residents .
The residents were asking why were we wearing masks , '' Minifield said .
“ She told me , 'You have to take it off . '
She ripped it off my face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a trash can on our nurse 's cart , and threw it right in there , and walked off and didn ’ t care .
And she told me , 'If you have something to say , you can leave my building . '
'' Coronavirus Watch newsletter : Sign up for daily updates in your inbox Minifield said she told the director of nursing on March 25 that numerous residents under her care were showing severe symptoms of COVID-19 .
The director of nursing told her `` no one here has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When Minifield asked her supervisors what the plan was , she was told there was no intention of testing the residents `` because they could not possibly have it , '' according to the lawsuit .
Minifield arrived at work March 28 feeling sick , but was told she had to work unless she had a fever .
She called in sick the next day and on April 3 found out that she had the virus and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome , or SARS .
Harden worked the week of March 23 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and `` persistent high fevers . ''
During shifts March 29 and March 30 , she interacted with about seven residents who had serious virus symptoms , including one who was vomiting for four days , the lawsuit states .
She reported the conditions and her concerns , but was told there were no plans to test any of the residents `` and they would remain in their present states . ''
Some of those patients died , according to the lawsuit .
Harden started to feel sick March 30 and stayed off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the emergency room April 6 .
Two days later , she received positive test results for COVID-19 .
Her daughter also tested positive and was hospitalized , the complaint states .
In her lawsuit , Johnson said she reported various respiratory ailments she experienced to her supervisors March 24 , saying she felt she might have the virus .
She `` was expressly told by management that unless she had a fever – Plaintiff did not – she had to work . ''
She , too , reported concerns for residents who showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 31 , Johnson 's symptoms and condition had worsened , which she reported to management , but was denied going home sick .
She worked for 90 minutes and had a nurse take her vitals , which prompted her to go home , according to the lawsuit .
It states that while driving home , Johnson 's respiratory ailments became so severe , she pulled over and called 911 .
She was taken to the hospital by ambulance and the next day received positive test results for the virus .
On April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnson and requested proof she tested positive , which Johnson sent her .
Johnson then called the Lapeer County Health Department , which told her that the nursing home reported that Johnson 's last day of work was March 26 , according to her lawsuit .
You 're facing a lot of choices amid the pandemic : Cut yourself slack : It 's called decision fatigue In early April , the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs surveyed the Villages of Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation through observation , interviews and record reviews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which declared `` immediate jeopardy . ''
`` Based on observation , interview and record review , the facility failed to follow accepted Infection Control standards of practice to ensure the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment/PPE ( the use of facial masks ) was made available for staff usage when caring for residents during the onset of the facility '' s COVID-19 outbreak of a census of 58 residents , resulting in increased COVID-19 cross contamination , 25 facility residents with reported COVID-19 tests ... numerous staff members with reported positive COVID-19 test results @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential for further cross contamination of other residents residing in the facility with possible hospitalization and death , '' according to the report .
The report , which does n't reference employees or patients by name , states the `` immediate jeopardy '' began on March 24 when the former director of nursing came into the facility therapy room and told an occupational therapist to remove her own personal protective face mask and told her `` she was not going to wear the mask in 'her building . '
This was during a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The report stated that according to the state health department , Lapeer County had the first case reported of COVID-19 on March 24 .
Two nursing assistants had been sent home from working at the facility on March 25 by the previous director of nursing for wearing their own protective face masks while caring for facility residents , according to the survey report .
The county health department reported on April 9 the facility had 22 residents with a positive COVID-19 test result .
By April 13 , there were 25 residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the report states .
It indicates that in an April 9 phone interview , the previous director of nursing said they had enough masks and PPE and `` I was saving them . ''
She said the administrator said she 's keeping the masks on a table in the corner of her locked office .
She also said she told the administrator there were several staff members who were wearing masks because they did n't want to get the virus .
`` I told them we were checking temps and did n't want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to save these masks , '' the director of nursing told a state investigator , according to the report .
She also said she went to one of the therapists and a couple of staff and told them they did n't need to wear them and should n't wear them in the building `` and the residents were getting upset . ''
She said the therapist called a physician , then the administrator said to let the staff wear masks .
A review of a typed note dated March 25 indicated the administrator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the staff needs to be allowed to wear masks , per doctors .
'Small events add up to a lot ' : Limited gatherings quietly emerge as source of coronavirus infections According to the report , the administrator said during an April 8 phone interview that the facility had enough masks and PPE in the building on March 24 for staff to use .
The administrator said the facility had N-95 face masks , gowns , gloves , face shields and hand sanitizer in the facility and that masks were available to staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jeopardy '' was abated on April 7 based on observation via virtual tour of the facility staff wearing the proper PPE , including protective facial masks , while interacting and caring for residents and on confirmation during interviews on April 14 that the facility had implemented seven measures to remove the `` immediate jeopardy . ''
The report ended : `` Although the Immediate Jeopardy was removed on 4/7/20 , the facility remained out of compliance at scope and severity for potential for more than minimum harm pending the facility '' s ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State Agency . ''
As the state of Michigan passed 100,000 confirmed coronavirus cases , it has recorded 6,446 deaths from the virus as of Friday .
More than a third of those deaths , or 2,103 as of Wednesday , have been nursing home residents .
Shortly after the first cases in Michigan were announced March 10 , Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order restricting visitors to nursing homes .
The state health department eased visitor restrictions June 30 , but only for residents who are in serious or critical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone to help them with activities of daily living .
Whitmer has been scrutinized for her decisions about nursing homes , such as allowing COVID-19 patients to be treated in the same facility as those who have not contracted the virus .
On Wednesday , the U.S. Department of Justice announced it wants Michigan and three other states governed by Democrats to provide data related to nursing homes and coronavirus deaths .
Feds to Whitmer : Turn over COVID-19 , nursing home data .
She blasts back response .
In addition to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lapeer Nursing & Rehabilitation has had 47 confirmed resident COVID-19 cases and 16 confirmed staff cases for the virus , according to the state 's long-term care data .
There have been no COVID-19 deaths among staff .
'Her life had value' Williams said he still has nightmares about his mother 's death .
`` All I hear is my mom saying , 'Please help me , ' the last time I seen her through the window .
Over and over again , '' he said .
Wanda Parker arrived at the nursing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay only about 12 days for rehabilitation .
Shortly after she arrived , she had a seizure , lost the use of her legs and was bedridden .
She also had diabetes and heart disease , according to the lawsuit filed by her family .
When she was younger , Williams said , his mom worked in some factories and stores .
She loved her children and grandchildren .
`` I never had nobody love me that much , '' Williams said .
Parker also loved to shop and give items to others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t go to her house without leaving with a bag of stuff . ''
' Coronavirus updates:25 million global cases as US approaches 6 million ; WHO warns of front line 'burnout' Williams said he visited his mother daily at the nursing home .
Before the virus , he would bring her food and drinks .
After the pandemic hit Michigan , he had to visit her through the window .
`` It was horrible to see what happened , '' he said .
`` I feel guilty for even letting it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what I could have did . ''
Williams ' lawsuit states the former director of nursing `` severely understated the conditions at Villages during ( an ) initial conversation with the Lapeer County Health Department . ''
It states the first day the nursing home tested any resident was April 3 and by April 21 , there were 13 deaths .
The nursing home 's management , it states , `` disregarded weeks-long internal reports of resident danger and continued to refuse to test residents and effectively continued to allow these dangerous conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious problem and imminent harm to numerous high-risk residents '' such as Parker .
Williams said at the hospital a nurse held the phone to his mother 's ear so everyone could say goodbye since they could n't go inside because of the virus .
He said the nursing home has n't reached out since his mother 's death .
But it sent a bill for the month of April .
It was for $ 1,300 , said Laurila , one of Williams ' attorneys .
Williams said his mother was a tough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problems `` does n't mean she was disposable . ''
`` She always recovered from that stuff .
She was not gon na die tomorrow , '' he said .
`` I do n't know how long she had , but she had a lot longer than she was given . ''

Family members of COVID-19 victim sue Michigan nursing home that didn't allow staff to wear masks
Show Caption Hide Caption 4 tips to convince kids to wear masks during COVID-19 Here are 4 tips on how to get your kids to wear masks during the coronavirus pandemic. ProblemSolved, USA TODAY
DETROIT – Dennis Williams is haunted by the memory of his mother, Wanda Parker, through the window at a Michigan nursing home.
He said she was begging for help.
It was the last time he saw his 68-year-old mother alive. She died of COVID-19 on April 7, two days after she was transported to a hospital from the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation.
Williams said he saw employees of the facility not wearing masks, gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE) during his through-the-window visits with his mother before she died. He's aware of the lower COVID-19 statistics reported at other nursing homes in the area.
"They (the facilities) actually took the precautions," the Lapeer, Michigan, man said. "And that's what pisses me off, is that when we'd go see Mom through the window and it wasn't the workers' fault – I had talked to several of them – they just were just being told they could not wear the stuff."
"The stuff" was masks and PPE – some of which two former employees and their lawyers said were donated by the community but kept away from the staff.
Williams, his stepfather and his brother sued the nursing home. So did three former employees, all certified nursing assistants, who contracted the virus and alleged the nursing home refused to test residents or staff, to let employees stay home unless they had a fever and to allow employees to wear masks or PPE during the initial weeks after the pandemic hit Michigan in mid-March.
One former employee said a mask was ripped off her face by the director of nursing, who told her she was scaring patients.
Nineteen residents at the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation, an 87-bed facility, have died of COVID-19, according to data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. That is more than half of the 34 COVID-19 deaths in Lapeer County.
On April 8, the day after Parker died, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs began a survey of the nursing home and declared "immediate jeopardy" in a 37-page report. The state report supports the allegations of management barring staff from wearing PPE.
The Villages of Lapeer provided this statement to the Detroit Free Press of the USA TODAY Network last week:
"Due to the fact that the matters being inquired about are ongoing, we are not in a position to provide comment. We can say that The Villages of Lapeer has been and will continue to cooperate with the involved parties.
"Please be assured that The Villages of Lapeer is committed to continuing to provide high quality care and support to our residents and their families, as well as support for all of our staff during these challenging times."
Attorneys representing the nursing home did not respond to calls and emails.
Williams' lawsuit names Jill Vankerschaver, identified as the former director of nursing who resigned April 7. A woman who answered the phone under a telephone listing for Vankerschaver said, "I'm not interested. You have a nice day," before hanging up on a Free Press reporter.
'This is not just a screw-up'
Three lawsuits were filed in Lapeer County Circuit Court in June against Davis & Davis Management Group, which owns the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation. Medicare.gov listed the owners and directors of the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation as Michael and Thomas Davis, two doctors who are brothers.
The Free Press could not reach the Davises on Friday.
In an article April 9, Thomas Davis told TV station ABC12, "We're taking good care of the patients, and everything is being followed by the letter. And I don't want people to be worried about their loved ones that are in there."
In a follow-up article the next day, after Parker's family raised concerns about her death, the station quoted Davis as saying there was a shortage of PPE across the country.
"We were not being negligent, we were doing everything we could, believe me," he told the television station.
No responses had been filed to the lawsuits, and no court dates had been set as of last Wednesday, according to Lapeer County Circuit Court.
Williams' lawsuit and one filed by Taylor Minifield and Tasha Harden, both of Flint, each seek more than $1 million in damages. The third lawsuit, filed by Shanika Johnson of Flint, seeks more than $25,000.
Their attorneys say the nursing home's actions amounted to gross negligence and egregious circumstances.
“When you rip the face mask off of a person … that’s active, that’s intentional, that’s reckless," said Jim Rasor, one of the attorneys. "This is not just a screw-up. This is not a mistake. This is actively, recklessly putting people in a horrible or deadly disease."
Co-counsel Andrew Laurila said, "Here we had a willful refusal to allow people to wear PPE."
They said a post March 27 on the facility's Facebook page shows homemade masks and N95 masks and says, "Our community has been so gracious to us, and we are SO grateful!"
Minifield said she saw masks go into the director of nursing's office.
"She kept ’em in there. She never brought ’em out. I asked her in the hallway, like, can we bring in donated masks, and she said, 'Oh yeah, I have a lot of them in my office. I’ve got them for emergency purposes only,’ ” Harden said. "I’m still confused what was considered an emergency, (because) that was an emergency."
Previously: Death toll rises as coronavirus sweeps through Michigan nursing homes
The lawsuit filed by Minifield and Harden says that starting in the middle of March, they saw employees and staff show signs of the virus. It alleges that during the week of March 16, the director of nursing told staffers they were not allowed to wear PPE because it would "scare the residents."
Minifield cared not only for residents such as Parker but also for her mother at home, who was being treated for cancer. She said she wore her own mask to work at the end of March for her safety and the safety of the residents. The director of nursing, she said, removed it from her face.
“She said you have to take that off because basically you’re scaring the residents. The residents were asking why were we wearing masks," Minifield said. “She told me, 'You have to take it off.' She ripped it off my face and threw it right into, we have a trash can on our nurse's cart, and threw it right in there, and walked off and didn’t care. And she told me, 'If you have something to say, you can leave my building.’ ”
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Minifield said she told the director of nursing March 25 that residents under her care showed severe symptoms of COVID-19.
The director of nursing told her, "No one here has the virus," the lawsuit alleges. When Minifield asked her supervisors what the plan was, she was told there was no intention of testing the residents "because they could not possibly have it," according to the lawsuit.
Minifield arrived at work March 28 feeling sick, but was told she had to work unless she had a fever. She called in sick the next day and on April 3 found out that she had the virus and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, or SARS.
Harden worked the week of March 23 with residents she suspected had the virus and "persistent high fevers." During shifts March 29 and 30, she interacted with seven residents who had serious virus symptoms, including one who was vomiting for four days, the lawsuit says.
She reported the conditions and her concerns but was told there were no plans to test any of the residents "and they would remain in their present states." Some of those patients died, according to the lawsuit.
Harden started to feel sick March 30 and stayed off work April 1. She went to the emergency room April 6. Two days later, she received positive test results for COVID-19. Her daughter also tested positive and was hospitalized, the complaint says.
More: Nursing home residents account for 34% of Michigan's COVID-19-related deaths
In her lawsuit, Johnson said she reported various respiratory ailments she experienced to her supervisors March 24, saying she felt she might have the virus. She "was expressly told by management that unless she had a fever – Plaintiff did not – she had to work."
She reported concerns for residents who showed symptoms of the virus.
On March 31, Johnson's symptoms and condition worsened, which she reported to management but was denied sick leave, she said. She worked for 90 minutes and had a nurse take her vitals, which prompted her to go home, according to the lawsuit.
It says that while driving home, Johnson's respiratory ailments became so severe, she pulled over and called 911. She was taken to a hospital by ambulance and the next day received positive test results for the virus.
On April 2, the director of nursing called Johnson and requested proof she tested positive, which Johnson sent her. Johnson called the Lapeer County Health Department, which told her that the nursing home reported that Johnson's last day of work was March 26, according to her lawsuit.
You face a lot of choices amid the pandemic: Cut yourself slack: It's called decision fatigue
'Immediate jeopardy'
In early April, the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs surveyed the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation through observation, interviews and record reviews.
The state issued its report, which declared "immediate jeopardy."
"Based on observation, interview and record review, the facility failed to follow accepted Infection Control standards of practice to ensure the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment/PPE (the use of facial masks) was made available for staff usage when caring for residents during the onset of the facility''s COVID-19 outbreak of a census of 58 residents, resulting in increased COVID-19 cross contamination, 25 facility residents with reported COVID-19 tests ... numerous staff members with reported positive COVID-19 test results, 6 resident deaths ... and the potential for further cross contamination of other residents residing in the facility with possible hospitalization and death," according to the report.
The report, which doesn't refer to employees or patients by name, says the "immediate jeopardy" began March 24 when the former director of nursing came into the facility therapy room and told an occupational therapist to remove her own personal protective face mask and told her "she was not going to wear the mask in 'her building.' This was during a worldwide pandemic of the COVID-19 virus."
The report says that according to the state Health Department, Lapeer County had the first case reported of COVID-19 on March 24.
Two nursing assistants had been sent home from working at the facility on March 25 by the previous director of nursing for wearing their own protective face masks while caring for facility residents, according to the survey report.
The county Health Department reported April 9 that the facility had 22 residents with a positive COVID-19 test result. By April 13, there were 25 residents who tested positive for the virus.
'Small events add up to a lot': Limited gatherings quietly emerge as source of coronavirus infections
The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs report says the "immediate jeopardy" was abated April 7 based on observation via virtual tour of the facility staff wearing the proper PPE, including protective facial masks, while interacting and caring for residents and on confirmation during interviews April 14 that the facility had implemented seven measures to remove the "immediate jeopardy."
The report ended: "Although the Immediate Jeopardy was removed on 4/7/20, the facility remained out of compliance at scope and severity for potential for more than minimum harm pending the facility"s ability to sustain compliance as verified by the State Agency."
Nursing homes hit hard
As the state of Michigan passed 100,000 confirmed coronavirus cases, it has recorded 6,446 deaths from the virus as of Friday. More than a third of those deaths, or 2,103 as of Wednesday, have been nursing home residents.
Shortly after the first cases in Michigan were announced March 10, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order restricting visitors to nursing homes.
The state Health Department eased visitor restrictions June 30 but only for residents who are in serious or critical condition or hospice care or who need someone to help them with activities of daily living.
Whitmer allowed COVID-19 patients to be treated in the same facility as those who had not contracted the virus. Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it wants Michigan and three other states governed by Democrats to provide data related to nursing homes and coronavirus deaths.
Feds to Whitmer: Turn over COVID-19, nursing home data. She blasts back response.
In addition to the 19 resident deaths, the Villages of Lapeer Nursing and Rehabilitation has had 47 confirmed resident COVID-19 cases and 16 confirmed staff cases, according to the state's long-term care data. There have been no COVID-19 deaths among staff.
'Her life had value'
Williams said he has nightmares about his mother's death.
"All I hear is my mom saying, 'Please help me,' the last time I seen her through the window. Over and over again," he said.
Wanda Parker arrived at the nursing home in November and was scheduled to stay about 12 days for rehabilitation. Shortly after she arrived, she had a seizure, lost the use of her legs and was bedridden. She had diabetes and heart disease, according to the lawsuit filed by her family.
"I never had nobody love me that much," Williams said.
Parker loved to shop and give items to others, Williams said: "You couldn’t go to her house without leaving with a bag of stuff."
Coronavirus updates: 25 million global cases as US approaches 6 million; WHO warns of front line 'burnout'
Williams said he visited his mother daily at the nursing home. After the pandemic hit, he had to visit her through the window.
"It was horrible to see what happened," he said. "I feel guilty for even letting it happen, but I don't know what I could have did."
Williams' lawsuit says the former director of nursing "severely understated the conditions at Villages during (an) initial conversation with the Lapeer County Health Department." It says the first day the nursing home tested any resident was April 3 and by April 21, there were 13 deaths.
The nursing home's management, it says, "disregarded weeks-long internal reports of resident danger and continued to refuse to test residents and effectively continued to allow these dangerous conditions to persist in the face of a serious problem and imminent harm to numerous high-risk residents" such as Parker.
Williams said a nurse at the hospital held a phone to his mother's ear, so everyone could say goodbye since they couldn't go inside.
He said the nursing home hasn't reached out since his mother's death, but it sent a bill for the month of April. It was for $1,300, said Laurila, one of Williams' attorneys.
Williams said that just because his mother had health problems "doesn't mean she was disposable."
"She always recovered from that stuff. She was not gonna die tomorrow," he said. "I don't know how long she had, but she had a lot longer than she was given."
Follow reporter Christina Hall on Twitter: @challreporter
Competing parties, clashing realities: Campaign's final sprint opens as conventions end


usatoday--2020-08-30--The beginning of the end of airline change fees? United is ditching them for good – with a major cat

Changing a nonrefundable airline ticket has long been a pricey exercise on most airlines .
Need to move your dates or times or even destination ?
Fork over at least $ 200 per person , on top of any fare difference between the new trip and the original ticket .
Airlines have been waiving the onerous fees for months as the coronavirus pandemic has caused a flood of trip cancellations .
On Sunday , one major airline become the first to say change fees are gone for good , with a couple catches .
( Southwest Airlines has never charged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eliminating ticket change fees on domestic flights , effective immediately .
They are already waived at least through the end of the year due to the pandemic .
`` When we hear from customers about where we can improve , getting rid of fees is often the top request , '' United CEO Scott Kirby said in a statement .
`` Following previous tough times , airlines made difficult decisions to survive , sometimes at the expense of customer service .
United Airlines won ’ t be following that same playbook as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we ’ re taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better . ''
The airline also announced that , beginning in January , it will allow travelers without top-tier status in the airline 's frequent flier program to stand by for a different domestic or international flight on their day of travel without paying a $ 75 fee .
The new no-change-fee policy applies to travelers with standard economy and premium cabin tickets for travel within the United States , Puerto Rico and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay any fare difference .
The use of the words standard economy is deliberate .
United 's new policy will not apply to its no-frills basic economy tickets , generally the cheapest tickets .
No changes have ever been allowed with those tickets , even by paying a change fee , though United has waived that policy , too , during the pandemic .
Before the pandemic pummeled travel demand , ticket change fees , like bag fees and seat selection fees , were a big money maker for airlines .
In 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ticket change fees , second only to Delta and American , according to U.S. Department of Transportation 's Bureau of Transportation Statistics .
The airline brought in another $ 113.4 million from change fees in the first three months of this year , with the figure down from a year ago because the airline started waiving the fees in early March .
The change fees are loathed by travelers , though , and can add up to more than the price of the original ticket , making a change prohibitive .
Delta Air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an interview with USA TODAY in January , before the coronavirus crisis hit , and suggested the airline was considering a change in policy .
`` When you think about our fee structure , I think there 's fees in there , and change fees are part of that , that people feel are punitive , '' he said .
A month earlier , another Delta executive told investors that the airline had a group of customers and employees working together on a project to see how Delta can `` change change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2020 .
3 things travelers need to know about United 's new no change fee policy 1.Basic economy tickets are excluded .
Changes to those no-frills tickets have never been allowed except during the pandemic or within 24 hours of ticket purchase .
2 .
It covers flights within the United States and Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands .
Multiple changes are allowed .
Passengers will no longer pay a $ 200 change fee but must still pay any fare difference , which can be pricey , especially if a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
3. International flights , which carry higher change fees , are excluded .
The change fees on international flights vary by destination .

The beginning of the end of airline change fees? United is ditching them for good – with a major catch
Show Caption Hide Caption Coronavirus: US airlines announce face mask requirements to travel Many U.S. airlines including American, Southwest, United, Delta, Alaska, Frontier and JetBlue have announced passengers must wear masks while flying. USA TODAY, USA TODAY
Changing a nonrefundable airline ticket has long been a pricey exercise on most airlines.
Need to move your dates or times or even destination? Fork over at least $200 per person, on top of any fare difference between the new trip and the original ticket.
Airlines have been waiving the onerous fees for months as the coronavirus pandemic has caused a flood of trip cancellations.
On Sunday, one major airline become the first to say change fees are gone for good, with a couple catches. (Southwest Airlines has never charged change fees.)
United Airlines is eliminating ticket change fees on domestic flights, effective immediately. They are already waived at least through the end of the year due to the pandemic.
"When we hear from customers about where we can improve, getting rid of fees is often the top request,'' United CEO Scott Kirby said in a statement. "Following previous tough times, airlines made difficult decisions to survive, sometimes at the expense of customer service. United Airlines won’t be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis. Instead, we’re taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better.''
The airline also announced that, beginning in January, it will allow travelers without top-tier status in the airline's frequent flier program to stand by for a different domestic or international flight on their day of travel without paying a $75 fee.
The new no-change-fee policy applies to travelers with standard economy and premium cabin tickets for travel within the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Passengers must still pay any fare difference.
The use of the words standard economy is deliberate. United's new policy will not apply to its no-frills basic economy tickets, generally the cheapest tickets. No changes have ever been allowed with those tickets, even by paying a change fee, though United has waived that policy, too, during the pandemic.
Hi, Erin. Our basic economy ticket is our most restrictive fare and does not allow flight changes. You can find more information on our basic economy ticket here:https://t.co/Egenw53QCr. ^BK — United Airlines (@united) September 10, 2018
Before the pandemic pummeled travel demand, ticket change fees, like bag fees and seat selection fees, were a big money maker for airlines.
In 2019, United collected $625 million in ticket change fees, second only to Delta and American, according to U.S. Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics.
The airline brought in another $113.4 million from change fees in the first three months of this year, with the figure down from a year ago because the airline started waiving the fees in early March.
The change fees are loathed by travelers, though, and can add up to more than the price of the original ticket, making a change prohibitive.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian acknowledged the rancor in an interview with USA TODAY in January, before the coronavirus crisis hit, and suggested the airline was considering a change in policy.
"When you think about our fee structure, I think there's fees in there, and change fees are part of that, that people feel are punitive,'' he said.
A month earlier, another Delta executive told investors that the airline had a group of customers and employees working together on a project to see how Delta can "change change'' with plans to roll it out in 2020.
3 things travelers need to know about United's new no change fee policy
1. Basic economy tickets are excluded. Changes to those no-frills tickets have never been allowed except during the pandemic or within 24 hours of ticket purchase.
2. It covers flights within the United States and Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Multiple changes are allowed. Passengers will no longer pay a $200 change fee but must still pay any fare difference, which can be pricey, especially if a change is made at the last minute.
3. International flights, which carry higher change fees, are excluded. The change fees on international flights vary by destination.