usatoday--2020-12-31--R.I.P. Dawn Wells: Remembering my boat cruise with lovely Mary Ann from 'Gilligan's Island'

First of all , Mary Ann was never `` and the rest . ''
She was much more than that .
That dismissive `` Gilligan 's Island '' theme-song lyric popped into my head when I heard the sad news that Dawn Wells , who played Mary Ann Summers on the silly , schlocky yet beloved sitcom , died Wednesday at age 82 from COVID-19 complications .
Wells ' death is another reminder of the slow passage of baby-boomer TV iconography from an era when there were three broadcast networks and ten of millions of viewers watched the same shows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the shows were n't good , and many were n't , everybody knew them .
Wells was known to millions of boomer kids – followed by millions more who watched the reruns over the decades – as one of seven castaways stranded on a desert island for the show 's three-season run ( 1964-67 ) and eventually celluloid eternity .
( They were rescued in some later , forgettable TV films that did n't even feature the real Ginger . )
In the first-season opening credits , Mary Ann and Wells were afterthoughts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many from the era that spelled out the entire concept in less than a minute , mentioned and showed pictures of the other five cast ( away ) members : Gilligan , The Skipper , millionaires Mr. and Mrs. Howell and movie star Ginger Grant .
However , the two other castaways , Mary Ann and The Professor ( Russell Johnson ) , were relegated to `` and the rest '' – no names , no photos .
Music to plot by : Just sit right back and you 'll hear a tale @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Johnson and their characters deserved better .
They got it in Season 2 , when `` and the rest '' was replaced with `` The Professor and Mary Ann , '' along with pictures of Johnson and Wells .
They merited the mention – their characters were as important as any in an ensemble of stock types – and I read later that Bob Denver ( who played Gilligan ) lobbied hard for them to be recognized , which ultimately became the thing I liked best about the show .
Mary Ann @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farm girl , designed to contrast with Ginger ( Tina Louise , now the sole surviving cast member ) , the Marilyn Monroe-like movie star .
Pigtails and gingham dress vs. evening gown and heels .
No , not subtle .
But kids did n't know any better .
At least I did n't .
`` Ginger or Mary Ann ? ''
became a pledge of allegiance permanently embedded in pop culture , with viewers taking sides over the characters , either in terms of which they identified with or , more likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In one interview , Wells said she was asked about that the most .
( In the interest of journalistic transparency , I 'm firmly Team Mary Ann . )
Mary Ann was level-headed , sweet and approachable , and from what I 've been told , Wells had similar traits .
I 've covered Hollywood too long to expect an actor to be like an endearing character or to live up to a heavily polished public image , but it 's always pleasing when one does .
Call it the Tom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actor had the difficult task of being a grounding force on a show known for flights of foolishness ( Gilligan ) , greed ( Thurston Howell III ) and ego ( Ginger ) , but Wells pulled it off with aplomb .
She also had some wonderfully wacky turns , as when Mary Ann hit her head – ah , '60s concussion comedy !
– and thought she was Ginger .
I had the pleasure of meeting Wells .
It was a surreal experience , a 2004 boat party to promote the Season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black-and-white ) at the harbor in Marina del Rey , where one of the season-opening credits sequences was filmed .
( For the record , the cruise part of the party was only about 30 minutes , not three hours ; on the plus side , we did get back to port safely . )
Wells was there , along with Denver and Johnson .
For some reason – and this has always stuck with me – so was Eddie Munster , I mean TV 's Butch Patrick , who played the wolfboy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vampire on `` The Munsters . ''
Did characters from fantastical '60s sitcoms all hang out together ?
I wish !
I remember Wells , then in her mid-60s , as enthusiastic and friendly , no mean feat when you 're answering the same questions you 've heard for so many years about a show that likely cost you later gigs due to typecasting .
She was either having a good time or making sure her fans did .
Either worked for me .
As with many shows , when you watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ usually nowhere near as good as what you remembered as a child , although the `` Gilligan 's '' episode where the castaways put on a musical version of `` Hamlet '' remains a personal favorite : `` There 's just one other thing you ought to do/To thine own self be true '' to the `` Toreador Song '' ?
Now , that 's culture .
No matter the quality , `` Gilligan 's Island '' and Mary Ann are part of my youth , as they are for so many others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brutal loss resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic .
I did n't really know her , but I feel a connection , as so many of us do with the stars of our favorite childhood shows .
Her death hurts because it chips away a piece of my own youth .
As a consolation , Wells will always be with us , because `` Gilligan 's Island '' will forever be available ( on MeTV and via various streaming options ) .
But the stronger and better place to stay in touch with Mary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on TV .
It 's in our memories .

Dawn Wells: Memories of a 'Gilligan's Island' boat cruise with standout castaway Mary Ann
Show Caption Hide Caption 'Gilligan's Island' star Dawn Wells dies of COVID-19 complications The actress best known for her role as Mary Ann in the '60s sitcom "Gilligan's Island" has died at 82 of COVID-19 complications. USA TODAY
First of all, Mary Ann was never "and the rest." She was much more than that.
That dismissive "Gilligan's Island" theme-song lyric popped into my head when I heard the sad news that Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann Summers on the silly, schlocky yet beloved sitcom, died Wednesday at age 82 from COVID-19 complications.
Wells' death is another reminder of the slow passage of baby-boomer TV iconography from an era when there were three broadcast networks and tens of millions of viewers watched the same shows at the same time. Even if the shows weren't good, and many weren't, everybody knew them.
Wells was known to millions of boomer kids – followed by millions more who watched the reruns over the decades – as one of seven castaways stranded on a desert island for the show's three-season run (1964-67) and eventually celluloid eternity. (They were rescued in some later, forgettable TV films that didn't even feature the real Ginger.)
Goodbye, Mary Ann: 'Gilligan's Island' star Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann, dies of COVID-19 complications
In the first-season opening credits, Mary Ann and Wells were afterthoughts. The theme song, one of many from the era that spelled out the entire concept in less than a minute, mentioned and showed pictures of the other five cast(away) members: Gilligan, The Skipper, millionaires Mr. and Mrs. Howell and movie star Ginger Grant. However, the two other castaways, Mary Ann and The Professor (Russell Johnson), were relegated to "and the rest" – no names, no photos.
Music to plot by: Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale of everlasting TV theme songs
Both Wells and Johnson and their characters deserved better. They got it in Season 2, when "and the rest" was replaced with "The Professor and Mary Ann," along with pictures of Johnson and Wells. They merited the mention – their characters were as important as any in an ensemble of stock types – and I read later that Bob Denver (who played Gilligan) lobbied hard for them to be recognized, which ultimately became the thing I liked best about the show.
Mary Ann was the stereotypical innocent, fresh-faced Kansas farm girl, designed to contrast with Ginger (Tina Louise, now the sole surviving cast member), the Marilyn Monroe-like movie star. Pigtails and gingham dress vs. evening gown and heels. No, not subtle. But kids didn't know any better. At least I didn't.
"Ginger or Mary Ann?" became a pledge of allegiance permanently embedded in pop culture, with viewers taking sides over the characters, either in terms of which they identified with or, more likely, which they had a crush on. In one interview, Wells said she was asked about that the most. (In the interest of journalistic transparency, I'm firmly Team Mary Ann.)
Mary Ann was level-headed, sweet and approachable, and from what I've been told, Wells had similar traits. I've covered Hollywood too long to expect an actor to be like an endearing character or to live up to a heavily polished public image, but it's always pleasing when one does. Call it the Tom Hanks rule.
The character and the actor had the difficult task of being a grounding force on a show known for flights of foolishness (Gilligan), greed (Thurston Howell III) and vanity (Ginger), but Wells pulled it off with aplomb. She also had some wonderfully wacky turns, as when Mary Ann hit her head – ah, '60s concussion comedy! – and thought she was Ginger.
I had the pleasure of meeting Wells. It was a surreal experience, a 2004 boat party to promote the Season 1 DVD (the only season in black-and-white) at the harbor in Marina del Rey, California, where one of the season-opening credits sequences was filmed. (For the record, the cruise part of the party was only about 30 minutes, not three hours; on the plus side, we did get back to port safely.)
Wells was there, along with Denver and Johnson. For some reason – and this has always stuck with me – so was Eddie Munster, I mean TV's Butch Patrick, who played the wolfboy son of a Frankenstein's monster and a vampire on "The Munsters." Did characters from fantastical '60s sitcoms all hang out together? I wish!
I remember Wells, then in her mid-60s, as enthusiastic and friendly, no mean feat when you're answering the same questions you've heard for so many years about a show that likely cost you later gigs due to typecasting. She was either having a good time or making sure her fans did. Either worked for me.
As with many shows, when you watch them as an adult, they're usually nowhere near as good as what you remembered as a child, although the "Gilligan's" episode where the castaways put on a musical version of "Hamlet" remains a personal favorite: "There's just one other thing you ought to do/To thine own self be true" to the "Toreador Song"? Now, that's culture.
No matter the quality, "Gilligan's Island" and Mary Ann are part of my youth, as they are for so many others. Now Wells is gone, another brutal loss resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. I didn't really know her, but I feel a connection, as so many of us do with the stars of our favorite childhood shows. Her death hurts because it chips away a piece of my own youth.
As a consolation, Wells will always be with us because "Gilligan's Island" will forever be available (on MeTV and via various streaming options). But the stronger and better place to stay in touch with Mary Ann and her fellow castaways isn't on TV. It's in our memories.


usatoday--2020-12-31--Parade viewing stands dismantled near White House as Biden team seeks to discourage inauguration cro

Workers on Tuesday broke down the inaugural parade reviewing stand in front of the White House ahead of what President-elect Joe Biden 's transition team plans for a mostly virtual inauguration .
Aides to the president-elect say that such infrastructure will not be necessary for the `` reimagined '' event .
“ When the JCCIC first organized in June of 2020 , its membership committed to planning ceremonies that were as safe and traditional as possible , '' the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Committees said in a statement .
`` In light of the ongoing pandemic and in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encourage people to stay home and view the virtual program in addition to the traditional broadcast , '' it continues .
Fact check : What 's true and what 's false about the 2020 election COVID Relief : McConnell again blocks $ 2K stimulus checks , says standalone bill has 'no realistic path' '' The ceremony ’ s footprint will be extremely limited '' the committee , which will oversee the events taking place on Capitol grounds , said on Dec. 15 .
Off Capitol grounds , the National Park Service and Secret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ size on federal lands and around the White House .
The various committees are coordinating on virtual programming to make the event feel more inclusive in lieu of the fanfare and large crowds that normally accompany presidential inaugurations .
The White House referred questions about the inauguration ceremony to the inaugural team .
The dressed-down event is reflective of the tumult the incoming administration will inherit after Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn on Jan. 20 .
On Tuesday Biden said the next few months would be “ a very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criticized the Trump administration for its rollout of coronavirus vaccines .
The president-elect lamented that `` it 's going to take years , not months '' to vaccinate the country at the administration 's current rate .
Electoral College count : Sen. Hawley will object to Electoral College results , ensuring a messy but doomed fight to overturn Biden 's win “ This is going to be the greatest operational challenge we ’ ve ever faced as a nation , ” Biden said at a press conference in Wilmington , Del .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it done.
” To prepare for the event , the committee has begun drafting plans compliant with public health guidelines and brought in Dr. David Kessler , former commissioner of the Food & Drug Administration and a co-chair to Biden 's COVID-19 Task Force , to serve as chief medical advisor to the committee .
Other details for the Biden inauguration ceremonies , including whether a parade will take place at all , the potential lineup of performing artists and whether Republican members of Congress and President Donald Trump will attend the event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Coronavirus is changing everyday life across the US

Parade viewing stands dismantled near White House as Biden team seeks to discourage inauguration crowds
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden calls out 'irresponsibility,' 'roadblocks' in transition President-elect Joe Biden called the lack of cooperation from the Trump administration irresponsible. Staff video, USA TODAY
Workers on Tuesday broke down the inaugural parade reviewing stand in front of the White House ahead of what President-elect Joe Biden's transition team plans for a mostly virtual inauguration.
Aides to the president-elect say that such infrastructure will not be necessary for the "reimagined" event.
“When the JCCIC first organized in June of 2020, its membership committed to planning ceremonies that were as safe and traditional as possible," the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Committees said in a statement.
"In light of the ongoing pandemic and in order to keep everyone safe, we strongly encourage people to stay home and view the virtual program in addition to the traditional broadcast," it continues.
Fact check: What's true and what's false about the 2020 election
COVID Relief: McConnell again blocks $2K stimulus checks, says standalone bill has 'no realistic path'
"The ceremony’s footprint will be extremely limited" the committee, which will oversee the events taking place on Capitol grounds, said on Dec. 15.
Off Capitol grounds, the National Park Service and Secret Service will be coordinating to reduce crowd size on federal lands and around the White House.
The various committees are coordinating on virtual programming to make the event feel more inclusive in lieu of the fanfare and large crowds that normally accompany presidential inaugurations.
The White House referred questions about the inauguration ceremony to the inaugural team.
The dressed-down event is reflective of the tumult the incoming administration will inherit after Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn on Jan. 20.
On Tuesday Biden said the next few months would be “a very tough period for our nation" and criticized the Trump administration for its rollout of coronavirus vaccines. The president-elect lamented that "it's going to take years, not months" to vaccinate the country at the administration's current rate.
Electoral College count: Sen. Hawley will object to Electoral College results, ensuring a messy but doomed fight to overturn Biden's win
“This is going to be the greatest operational challenge we’ve ever faced as a nation,” Biden said at a press conference in Wilmington, Del. "But we’re going to get it done.”
To prepare for the event, the committee has begun drafting plans compliant with public health guidelines and brought in Dr. David Kessler, former commissioner of the Food & Drug Administration and a co-chair to Biden's COVID-19 Task Force, to serve as chief medical advisor to the committee.
Other details for the Biden inauguration ceremonies, including whether a parade will take place at all, the potential lineup of performing artists and whether Republican members of Congress and President Donald Trump will attend the event are still unknown.
A Changed Nation: Coronavirus is changing everyday life across the US


usatoday--2020-12-30--Kohl's is having a huge home sale to help you refresh your space for 2021

— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed ’ s editors .
Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission .
New year , new space !
While seasonal changes are always a great opportunity for at-home upgrades , there ’ s no better time to refresh your abode than the beginning of a brand new year .
For many of us , 2021 represents a fresh start—and what greater way to make your days that much more enjoyable than to update your home ?
Whether you ’ re looking to give your bathroom a mini makeover or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ savvy storage solutions , Kohl ’ s is the place to shop right now , thanks to its über-exciting Home Refresh Sale .
Need help finding products ?
Sign up for our weekly newsletter .
It ’ s free and you can unsubscribe at any time .
Through Wednesday , January 6 , customers can get huge discounts on furniture , bedding and kitchen appliances galore .
For instance , this The Big One down-alternative reversible comforter is part of the site 's sale .
It once retailed from as low as $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from as low as $ 23.99 in sizes twin/twin XL , falling a solid $ 56 ( you can also nab it for $ 29.99 in size full/queen or $ 35.99 in king , which is $ 84 less than its retail price of $ 119.99 ) .
Available in a plethora of cozy hues and patterns , this comforter has a 4.3-star rating from nearly 2,000 Kohl 's customers , who loved the super soft and warm feel of this blanket .
If you 're looking to upgrade your kitchen , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5-quart stand mixer ( our No.1 pick for stand mixers ! )
, which has been marked down by $ 100 to $ 279.99 from its retail price of $ 379.99 .
Avid bakers know that this mixer is an absolute must-have in the kitchen , and our testing provided ample evidence of just that .
From its durable build to the quiet motor and easy-to-use attachments , this KitchenAid appliance smashed every test we put it through , including sourdough bread , chocolate chip cookies and flourless cakes—just to name a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll receive a 5-quart stainless steel bowl , a metal wire whip , a nylon-coated flat beaker , a dough hook and a two-piece pouring shield .
Keep scrolling to check out the rest of the most exciting markdowns available during this huge savings event .
The best things to buy from the Kohl ’ s Home Refresh Sale • Get The Big One Microfiber Pillow from $ 3.99 ( Save $ 6 to $ 12 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Ultimate Bath Towel with Hygro Technology for $ 7.99 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Sonoma Goods for Life Ultimate Bath Rug from $ 7.99 ( Save $ 9 to $ 20 ) • Get the Simply Vera Vera Wang Signature Bath Towel for $ 14.99 ( Save $ 11 ) • Get the Cuddl Duds Flannel Sheet Set from $ 19.99 ( Save $ 20 to $ 60 ) • Get The Big One Down-Alternative Reversible Comforter from $ 23.99 ( Save $ 56 to $ 84 ) • Get the Cuddl Duds Plush Sherpa Throw for $ 24.99 ( Save $ 25 ) • Get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheet Set from $ 37.49 ( Save $ 37.50 to $ 50 ) • Get the Cuddl Duds Cozy Soft Comforter from $ 71.99 ( Save $ 88 to $ 99 ) • Get the Cuddl Duds Heated Plush to Sherpa Blanket from $ 89.99 ( Save $ 90 to $ 150 ) • Get the Koolaburra by UGG Tuva Comforter and Sham Set from $ 129.99 ( Save $ 50.01 to $ 70.01 ) • Get the Hamilton Beach 12-Cup Programmable Coffee Maker for $ 19.99 ( Save $ 5 ) • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 19.99 ( Save $ 5 ) • Get the KitchenAid KHBV53 Corded Hand Blender for $ 39.99 ( Save $ 10 ) • Get the Shark Rotator Lift-Away ADV DuoClean PowerFins Upright Vacuum with Self-Cleaning Brushroll for $ 249.99 ( Save $ 110 ) • Get the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer for $ 279.99 ( Save $ 100 ) • Get the St. Nicholas Square Cozy Mug Kitchen Towel , 2-Pack for $ 5.59 ( Save $ 8.40 ) • Get the Hammer & Axe Bottle Caddy Wood with Opener @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) • Get the Farberware 8-Piece Stainless-Steel Steak Knife Set for $ 26.99 ( Save $ 3 ) • Get the Ninja Foodi NeverStick Premium Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Frying Pan for $ 49.99 ( Save $ 20 ) • Get the Cambridge Sasha Sand 42-Piece Flatware Set for $ 59.99 ( Save $ 40 ) • Get the EZVIZ C1C 1080p Indoor Smart WiFi Security Camera for $ 19.99 ( Save $ 10 ) • Get the Google Nest Mini Smart Speaker for $ 24.99 ( Save $ 24.01 ) • Get the Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 29.99 ( Save $ 20 ) • Get the Amazon Echo Show 5 for $ 44.99 ( Save $ 45 ) • Get the Roku Ultra Streaming Player for $ 79.99 ( Save $ 20 ) • Get The Big One 3-Drawer Storage Tower for $ 59.99 ( Save $ 20 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Canton Round End Table for $ 69.99 ( Save $ 30 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Klein Storage Ottoman for $ 84.99 ( Save $ 15 ) • Get the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 149.99 ( Save $ 140 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Cameron Charging Station End Table for $ 174.99 ( Save $ 75 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Cameron 4-Shelf Tiered Bookcase for $ 181.99 ( Save $ 78 ) • Get the Whitmor Christmas Gift Wrap Storage Bag for $ 5.99 ( Save $ 6 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Canvas Storage Tote from $ 8.99 ( Save $ 3 to $ 5 ) • Get the Whitmor Ornament Storage Box for $ 14.99 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Homz Light Wrap Storage Container for $ 14.99 ( Save $ 15 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods For Life Bath Wicker Tank Topper for $ 17.49 ( Save $ 7.50 ) • Get The Big One 6-Shelf Closet Organizer for $ 20.99 ( Save $ 6 ) • Get the Sonoma Goods for Life Hanging Tweed Sweater Shelf for $ 22.49 ( Save $ 7.50 ) • Get the Whitmor 9-Foot Artificial Christmas Tree Storage Bag for $ 24.99 ( Save $ 25 ) • Get the Whitmor 75-Ornament Storage Box @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Need help finding products ?
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It ’ s free and you can unsubscribe at any time .
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered .
Follow Reviewed on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest deals , reviews , and more .
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time .

Kohl's is having a huge home sale to help you refresh your space for 2021
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
New year, new space! While seasonal changes are always a great opportunity for at-home upgrades, there’s no better time to refresh your abode than the beginning of a brand new year. For many of us, 2021 represents a fresh start—and what greater way to make your days that much more enjoyable than to update your home? Whether you’re looking to give your bathroom a mini makeover or you’re on the hunt for savvy storage solutions, Kohl’s is the place to shop right now, thanks to its über-exciting Home Refresh Sale.
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Through Wednesday, January 6, customers can get huge discounts on furniture, bedding and kitchen appliances galore. For instance, this The Big One down-alternative reversible comforter is part of the site's sale. It once retailed from as low as $79.99, but you can grab it from as low as $23.99 in sizes twin/twin XL, falling a solid $56 (you can also nab it for $29.99 in size full/queen or $35.99 in king, which is $84 less than its retail price of $119.99). Available in a plethora of cozy hues and patterns, this comforter has a 4.3-star rating from nearly 2,000 Kohl's customers, who loved the super soft and warm feel of this blanket.
If you're looking to upgrade your kitchen, you can invest in the oh-so-coveted KitchenAid Artisan 5-quart stand mixer (our No.1 pick for stand mixers!), which has been marked down by $100 to $279.99 from its retail price of $379.99. Avid bakers know that this mixer is an absolute must-have in the kitchen, and our testing provided ample evidence of just that. From its durable build to the quiet motor and easy-to-use attachments, this KitchenAid appliance smashed every test we put it through, including sourdough bread, chocolate chip cookies and flourless cakes—just to name a few. With your purchase, you’ll receive a 5-quart stainless steel bowl, a metal wire whip, a nylon-coated flat beaker, a dough hook and a two-piece pouring shield.
Keep scrolling to check out the rest of the most exciting markdowns available during this huge savings event.
The best things to buy from the Kohl’s Home Refresh Sale
Need help finding products? Sign up for our weekly newsletter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest deals, reviews, and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.


usatoday--2020-12-31--Balance $2,000 stimulus amid COVID-19 and huge national debt by targeting the neediest

As the coronavirus plague drags on into the new year , more Americans are falling into financial distress .
A 2020 spike in the poverty rate was the largest in six decades .
Twenty million people are jobless , with more than 800,000 filing unemployment claims each week .
Consumer confidence and spending , personal income and home sales are all in decline .
And food banks across the country are overwhelmed .
It 's appropriate , then , that Congress passed , and President Donald Trump signed , a relief measure containing $ 600 payments for most Americans on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Those checks started going out this week .
Now the question is what to do about Trump 's belated demand , endorsed by congressional Democrats and some Republicans , to tack on $ 1,400 .
The answer is to more carefully target any future one-time payments to Americans who truly need them , while being mindful of the federal government 's exploding debt .
It 's a balancing act , to be sure .
A round of $ 1,400 payments would add $ 464 billion to the $ 900 billion rescue package passed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Trump after nearly a week of dithering .
That package included small business assistance and enhanced unemployment benefits .
The Congressional Budget Office forecasts the cost of fighting the pandemic will cause the federal debt next year to exceed the size of the entire American economy for the first time since the end of World War II .
Generations will be saddled with paying it down .
There is no such thing as free money .
At the same time , government borrowing costs have never been lower , the economy needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health crisis in 100 years .
Extraordinary problems require extraordinary responses .
The time for fiscal restraint is when times are good , not in the middle of a national emergency .
After lavishing corporations with tax cuts early in Trump 's presidency , many congressional Republicans are newly reborn deficit hawks who oppose raising the payments to $ 2,000 .
And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell introduced poison-pill legislation Tuesday that includes the sought-after payments but links them with two other provisions demanded by Trump that Democrats almost certainly will oppose : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firms and opening an investigation into the president 's unfounded claims of election fraud .
That could end the matter of hiking relief checks to $ 2,000 .
Indeed , McConnell said Wednesday that the House-passed measure endorsed by Trump has `` no realistic path to quickly pass the Senate . ''
But , if not in this Congress then in the next one , there 's room for compromise , specifically by tightening means testing for the remaining $ 1,400 and increasing the phaseout rate for higher earners .
As it stands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passed Monday , individuals earning up to $ 115,000 a year would still receive some money , as would a married couple with two children earning up to $ 310,000 , according to figures provided by Marc Goldwein , senior vice president and senior policy director of the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget .
Those kinds of earners can do without another federal check .
For those earning less than $ 50,000 , it 's a different story .
By focusing on the lower income brackets and phasing out payments for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could save upwards of $ 100 billion on the additional $ 1,400 payouts .
Recalculating eligibility should be possible in matter of days , so there should n't be weeks of delay in sending out the balance of the full $ 2,000 in relief money .
These are tough calls .
But they 're a way to be fiscally responsible with taxpayers ' money and still help those most in need during this crisis .

Balance $2,000 stimulus amid COVID-19 and huge national debt by targeting the neediest Our View: Mitch McConnell and Republicans, after passing corporate tax cuts, now are deficit hawks when America is in a once-in-a-century emergency.
Show Caption Hide Caption Scott Gottlieb, former FDA head, on vaccines and the tough road ahead. Former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb talks pandemic, vaccines and recovery with USA TODAY's Editorial Board. USA TODAY
As the coronavirus plague drags on into the new year, more Americans are falling into financial distress.
A 2020 spike in the poverty rate was the largest in six decades. Twenty million people are jobless, with more than 800,000 filing unemployment claims each week. Consumer confidence and spending, personal income and home sales are all in decline. And food banks across the country are overwhelmed.
It's appropriate, then, that Congress passed, and President Donald Trump signed, a relief measure containing $600 payments for most Americans on top of the traditional safety-net programs. Those checks started going out this week. Now the question is what to do about Trump's belated demand, endorsed by congressional Democrats and some Republicans, to tack on $1,400.
Cost of fighting coronavirus pandemic
The answer is to more carefully target any future one-time payments to Americans who truly need them, while being mindful of the federal government's exploding debt.
It's a balancing act, to be sure.
A round of $1,400 payments would add $464 billion to the $900 billion rescue package passed by Congress shortly before Christmas and signed by Trump after nearly a week of dithering. That package included small business assistance and enhanced unemployment benefits.
The Congressional Budget Office forecasts the cost of fighting the pandemic will cause the federal debt next year to exceed the size of the entire American economy for the first time since the end of World War II. Generations will be saddled with paying it down. There is no such thing as free money.
At the same time, government borrowing costs have never been lower, the economy needs stimulus and America is in the deadliest health crisis in 100 years. Extraordinary problems require extraordinary responses. The time for fiscal restraint is when times are good, not in the middle of a national emergency.
McConnell's poison pill
After lavishing corporations with tax cuts early in Trump's presidency, many congressional Republicans are newly reborn deficit hawks who oppose raising the payments to $2,000. And Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell introduced poison-pill legislation Tuesday that includes the sought-after payments but links them with two other provisions demanded by Trump that Democrats almost certainly will oppose: taking away liability protections for Big Tech firms and opening an investigation into the president's unfounded claims of election fraud.
That could end the matter of hiking relief checks to $2,000. Indeed, McConnell said Wednesday that the House-passed measure endorsed by Trump has "no realistic path to quickly pass the Senate." But, if not in this Congress then in the next one, there's room for compromise, specifically by tightening means testing for the remaining $1,400 and increasing the phaseout rate for higher earners.
As it stands now, under the measures the House passed Monday, individuals earning up to $115,000 a year would still receive some money, as would a married couple with two children earning up to $310,000, according to figures provided by Marc Goldwein, senior vice president and senior policy director of the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.
Those kinds of earners can do without another federal check.
For those earning less than $50,000, it's a different story. By focusing on the lower income brackets and phasing out payments for higher earners more quickly, the government could save upwards of $100 billion on the additional $1,400 payouts. Recalculating eligibility should be possible in matter of days, so there shouldn't be weeks of delay in sending out the balance of the full $2,000 in relief money.
These are tough calls. But they're a way to be fiscally responsible with taxpayers' money and still help those most in need during this crisis.


usatoday--2020-12-30--NAACP: Biden-Harris must create Cabinet position to focus solely on racial justice mandate

Next month , our nation will inaugurate a new president who can begin the enormous , difficult work to restore integrity and decency to our highest office and importantly , place Black Americans back on the path of our long journey toward achieving the full equality promised by our democracy .
Fortunately , President-elect Joe Biden is off to a good start .
Among other things , he has designated racial justice as a top priority , readily discusses the imperative to address systemic racism , and is appointing a diverse Cabinet and team to lead the country out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump ’ s presidency .
But the headwinds are incredibly daunting .
Powerful forces have coalesced to produce a racial justice crisis unparalleled in the modern era .
Black and brown communities are experiencing coronavirus impacts at staggering rates due to deeply embedded racial disparities in health care , in education and across our economy .
At the same time , police violence against Black Americans has been unyielding , causing everyone from all walks of life to demand an end to state-sponsored killings of Black people .
Finally , our nation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was rooted in bigotry and white supremacy , decimated civil rights programs and rules throughout government and installed anti-civil rights judges on the bench .
How urgently and meaningfully the Biden administration responds to this crisis will determine whether Black Americans can fully participate in society , remain stuck in place or backslide toward our former status as second-class citizens .
To meet the fierce urgency of now , the NAACP is calling on the Biden-Harris administration to create a new position to help fulfill its racial justice mandate .
Modeled after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader would be empowered to develop strategies for deploying all levers of the federal government to tackle the pervasive problem of systemic racism as never before .
We are recommending that this adviser report directly to Biden , hold a Cabinet-level position and sit on the National Economic Council .
At this critical time , we can not afford a siloed or piecemeal approach to racial justice .
Moreover , we can ’ t settle for merely restoring the civil rights policies that Trump reversed or rolled back .
To fully address the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we must look beyond traditional governmental structures and tools to take truly meaningful and lasting action .
This requires designating a leader to exclusively focus on racial justice at the highest level of government .
Column : Murder rates have increased , but reporting on crime data is still woefully out of date The truth is we can no longer afford to address systemic racism through the exclusive province of the civil rights offices of each federal agency .
Our structural inequality goes much deeper than that , and now is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation cries out for an end to structural disparities , the federal government has a duty to examine its own house from top to bottom to determine its role in creating and perpetuating the racial inequality that still exists today .
Institutional racism was once dictated by federal policy , and its vestiges are still with us .
For example , it was the federal government that adopted redlining policies creating the historic pattern of government-sanctioned housing discrimination that continues to marginalize communities of color , resegregates public schools and chokes off access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It was the federal government that was responsible for siting federal highways that damaged , isolated and destroyed Black communities across the country , separating them from economic , educational and social opportunities .
It was the federal government that adopted farm policies that laid a foundation for disparate treatment that minority rural residents continue to face today .
Through these and numerous other structural impediments to equity and opportunity , the federal government and its agencies wove systemic racism into the fabric of American society .
It is the federal government that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role in removing those threads , once and for all .
With stature , gravitas and visibility , a national adviser on racial justice could lead this charge .
She or he could lead a systemic review and analysis of federal agencies to identify how the government itself is reinforcing institutional barriers that perpetuate racial inequality and impede progress toward meaningful equal opportunity for all .
This could include a review of agency roles in creating and maintaining disparities , segregation and discrimination .
It could also involve the holistic evaluation of agency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that still obstruct racial justice and those that can be better utilized to promote considerations of equity .
Based on these analyses , the adviser could develop action plans for reducing and eliminating the identified institutional barriers and offer specific corrective recommendations .
The adviser would be ideally positioned to formulate and coordinate actions among Cabinet members to enact comprehensive and sustainable changes across agencies to reduce racial disparities .
The adviser could ensure racial justice principles are at the forefront of every agency ’ s agenda and effectuated throughout government .
Column @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vaccinated against COVID-19 before the rest of us Addressing racial justice will be the most vexing of the challenges facing the new administration because it necessarily means addressing historical truths and present-day disparities that call out for bold action .
Building back better in this context will require a herculean effort by the new administration to set a new standard for using the full measure of the federal government to achieve racial justice , including ensuring constitutionally guaranteed civil rights protections , leveling the playing field of economic opportunity and engaging each federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discrimination and injustice .
The future of our nation depends upon comprehensive , systemic and interlocking solutions for addressing racial justice and healing the “ soul of our nation.
” The Biden-Harris administration is off to a robust start to tackle the racial injustice that has plagued our nation since its founding .
It has articulated a strong commitment to promoting equality , which we have heard loudly and clearly .
Policing the USA : A look at race , justice , media But now is the time to put the energy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adopt the structural changes necessary to accomplish this formidable goal .
It is only through utilizing the vast powers of the federal government that we can begin to eliminate systemic racism , root and branch , and transform our nation into a more just , equal society in which all Americans can succeed and thrive .
Derrick Johnson is president and CEO of the NAACP .
Follow him on Twitter : @ DerrickNAACP

NAACP: Biden-Harris must create Cabinet position to focus solely on racial justice mandate The incoming administration says racial justice is a top priority. Only a top-level adviser will be equipped to fight 'crisis unparalleled in the modern era.'
Show Caption Hide Caption Joe Biden's Cabinet picks and other roles in his administration The president says he wants a government as diverse as America when he enters the White House. Here are some of his Executive Branch picks. USA TODAY
Next month, our nation will inaugurate a new president who can begin the enormous, difficult work to restore integrity and decency to our highest office and importantly, place Black Americans back on the path of our long journey toward achieving the full equality promised by our democracy.
Fortunately, President-elect Joe Biden is off to a good start. Among other things, he has designated racial justice as a top priority, readily discusses the imperative to address systemic racism, and is appointing a diverse Cabinet and team to lead the country out of the long, national nightmare of Donald Trump’s presidency.
But the headwinds are incredibly daunting. Powerful forces have coalesced to produce a racial justice crisis unparalleled in the modern era. Black and brown communities are experiencing coronavirus impacts at staggering rates due to deeply embedded racial disparities in health care, in education and across our economy.
At the same time, police violence against Black Americans has been unyielding, causing everyone from all walks of life to demand an end to state-sponsored killings of Black people. Finally, our nation is crawling out from under an administration that was rooted in bigotry and white supremacy, decimated civil rights programs and rules throughout government and installed anti-civil rights judges on the bench. How urgently and meaningfully the Biden administration responds to this crisis will determine whether Black Americans can fully participate in society, remain stuck in place or backslide toward our former status as second-class citizens.
To meet the fierce urgency of now, the NAACP is calling on the Biden-Harris administration to create a new position to help fulfill its racial justice mandate. Modeled after the special presidential envoys on climate, this leader would be empowered to develop strategies for deploying all levers of the federal government to tackle the pervasive problem of systemic racism as never before. We are recommending that this adviser report directly to Biden, hold a Cabinet-level position and sit on the National Economic Council.
At this critical time, we cannot afford a siloed or piecemeal approach to racial justice. Moreover, we can’t settle for merely restoring the civil rights policies that Trump reversed or rolled back. To fully address the significance and impact of this national moment, we must look beyond traditional governmental structures and tools to take truly meaningful and lasting action. This requires designating a leader to exclusively focus on racial justice at the highest level of government.
Column: Murder rates have increased, but reporting on crime data is still woefully out of date
The truth is we can no longer afford to address systemic racism through the exclusive province of the civil rights offices of each federal agency. Our structural inequality goes much deeper than that, and now is the time for bold solutions. As the nation cries out for an end to structural disparities, the federal government has a duty to examine its own house from top to bottom to determine its role in creating and perpetuating the racial inequality that still exists today.
Institutional racism was once dictated by federal policy, and its vestiges are still with us. For example, it was the federal government that adopted redlining policies creating the historic pattern of government-sanctioned housing discrimination that continues to marginalize communities of color, resegregates public schools and chokes off access to employment and quality health care.
Column: 'Survivors of solitary confinement'
It was the federal government that was responsible for siting federal highways that damaged, isolated and destroyed Black communities across the country, separating them from economic, educational and social opportunities. It was the federal government that adopted farm policies that laid a foundation for disparate treatment that minority rural residents continue to face today. Through these and numerous other structural impediments to equity and opportunity, the federal government and its agencies wove systemic racism into the fabric of American society. It is the federal government that must now take a leading and aggressive role in removing those threads, once and for all.
With stature, gravitas and visibility, a national adviser on racial justice could lead this charge. She or he could lead a systemic review and analysis of federal agencies to identify how the government itself is reinforcing institutional barriers that perpetuate racial inequality and impede progress toward meaningful equal opportunity for all. This could include a review of agency roles in creating and maintaining disparities, segregation and discrimination. It could also involve the holistic evaluation of agency structures and programs to identify those components that still obstruct racial justice and those that can be better utilized to promote considerations of equity.
Based on these analyses, the adviser could develop action plans for reducing and eliminating the identified institutional barriers and offer specific corrective recommendations. The adviser would be ideally positioned to formulate and coordinate actions among Cabinet members to enact comprehensive and sustainable changes across agencies to reduce racial disparities. The adviser could ensure racial justice principles are at the forefront of every agency’s agenda and effectuated throughout government.
Column: Here's why inmates should get vaccinated against COVID-19 before the rest of us
Addressing racial justice will be the most vexing of the challenges facing the new administration because it necessarily means addressing historical truths and present-day disparities that call out for bold action. Building back better in this context will require a herculean effort by the new administration to set a new standard for using the full measure of the federal government to achieve racial justice, including ensuring constitutionally guaranteed civil rights protections, leveling the playing field of economic opportunity and engaging each federal agency in doing its part to end discrimination and injustice. The future of our nation depends upon comprehensive, systemic and interlocking solutions for addressing racial justice and healing the “soul of our nation.”
The Biden-Harris administration is off to a robust start to tackle the racial injustice that has plagued our nation since its founding. It has articulated a strong commitment to promoting equality, which we have heard loudly and clearly.
Policing the USA: A look at race, justice, media
But now is the time to put the energy, capital and people behind this commitment and adopt the structural changes necessary to accomplish this formidable goal. It is only through utilizing the vast powers of the federal government that we can begin to eliminate systemic racism, root and branch, and transform our nation into a more just, equal society in which all Americans can succeed and thrive.
Derrick Johnson is president and CEO of the NAACP. Follow him on Twitter: @DerrickNAACP


usatoday--2020-12-30--Officer who fatally shot Breonna Taylor didn't identify target before spraying apartment with bullet

LOUISVILLE , Ky. — Detective Myles Cosgrove failed to `` properly identify a target '' when he fired 16 rounds into Breonna Taylor 's apartment the night Louisville Metro Police fatally shot the 26-year-old Black woman , according to a copy of his pretermination letter obtained by The Courier Journal , part of the USA TODAY Network .
In seeking his firing , interim Chief Yvette Gentry found Cosgrove violated Louisville Metro Police procedures for his use of force and failing to use a body camera during the March 13 raid .
Cosgrove , the FBI concluded , fired the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulmonary artery .
But his rounds sprayed the apartment , and he was n't certain what he was shooting at , according to the letter .
His shots came seconds after another officer , Sgt .
Jonathan Mattingly , had been shot in the thigh by Taylor 's boyfriend after police had rammed in the front door while trying to serve a search warrant during a narcotics investigation .
`` The shots you fired went in three distinctly different directions , demonstrating that you did not identify a specific target , '' Gentry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a manner consistent with suppressive fire , which is in direct contradiction to our training , values and policy . ''
Dec. 29 : Louisville police seek to fire 2 more officers connected to fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor Gentry wrote that her decision regarding the use of deadly force was based on three interviews Cosgrove gave : one to Public Integrity Unit criminal investigators , a second to the Attorney General 's Office and a third to the Professional Standards Unit investigation for policy violations .
`` It appears you fired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walker fired one round , '' Gentry wrote .
`` Two rounds were found in Ms. Taylor 's body and were identified as fired from your firearm , one being the fatal shot . ''
Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said in September his criminal investigation had concluded officers Cosgrove and Mattingly were justified in returning fire because Tayor 's boyfriend , Kenneth Walker , fired his weapon first .
Walker said he thought intruders were breaking in .
Cosgrove and Detective Joshua Jaynes , who secured the warrant for Taylor 's apartment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violating LMPD policy .
Each will have a hearing with Gentry and her team Thursday morning in which they can present a defense .
After that , the chief will decide whether to finalize their terminations .
LMPD has not publicly released the letters sent to Cosgrove or Janyes — directly contradicting the department 's handling of the firing of former Detective Brett Hankison in June .
The department released his pretermination letter the same day it was served at the orders of then-interim Chief Robert Schroeder .
Sgt .
John Bradley , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Schroeder opted to release the letter firing Hankison `` based on his reasoning . ''
He said there are no plans to release any paperwork associated with the Professional Standards Unit case until the completion of those cases .
However , Gentry 's letters to both Cosgrove and Jaynes say , `` The investigation conducted by the Louisville Metro Police Department 's Professional Standards Unit is now complete . ''
Dec. 28 : A ceramic bust of Breonna Taylor was vandalized in California .
The sculptor calls it a 'racist attack , ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crump , Lonita Baker and Sam Aguiar , attorneys for Taylor 's family , are still calling for the officers to be criminally charged , too , saying police `` lies , deceit and reckless actions led directly '' to Taylor 's death .
`` There is no revelation here , '' they wrote in a statement Wednesday .
`` We ’ ve known since Bre ’ s killing that her death was a direct result of the lies , corruption , and complete malfeasance of the Louisville Metro Police Department .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who stepped in to investigate the events surrounding Breonna Taylor ’ s murder and not simply defer to the incompetence of the Attorney General ’ s office . ''
When interviewed by LMPD investigators 12 days after Taylor 's death , Cosgrove described the warrant execution in surreal terms .
Gentry honed in on these statements in her letter .
Cosgrove said he fired at a `` distorted shadowy figure '' inside the apartment and at a `` distorted shadowy mask . ''
`` In your statement , you did not describe target @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flashes that you did not properly evaluate as a threat , '' Gentry wrote .
`` Had you evaluated the threat accurately , you would have likely stopped firing once the gunfire had stopped . ''
He also made conflicting statements that were not questioned by the investigators , Sgt .
Amanda Seelye and Sgt .
Jason Vance .
Cosgrove said at one juncture he never heard any gunfire , but at another point he told Seelye and Vance he was “ deafened ” by it .
He also said he used a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was “ immediately overwhelmed with darkness.
” Cosgrove described how “ this darkness in front of me '' was `` followed by — and this is hard for me to explain — this distorted shadowy mask , this figurine , this figure in front of me that is just … coming and going due to the flash fog light.
” Read more on race and identity : Sign up for USA TODAY ’ s This Is America newsletter The interviewers did n't ask him if the figure was male or female , Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one person or more than one .
But Cosgrove responded clearly when attorney Steve Schroering , then his counsel , asked him at the end of the interview : “ At the time you were in that doorway with Mattingly , did you have any question in your mind that your all 's lives were in danger ?
” “ Absolutely not , ” Cosgrove replied .
“ I knew for a fact that we were in danger of being killed or seriously injured . ''
Steve Romines , an attorney for Walker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practically the definition of wanton murder under Kentucky law . ''
There was no body-camera footage of the shooting that left Taylor , who was unarmed , dead in the hallway of her apartment .
Cosgrove was photographed after the raid with a body camera mount on his vest , but no camera .
Gentry noted Cosgrove `` failed to activate your assigned WVS ( wearable video system ) in recording mode prior to your engagement in this law enforcement activity . ''
Another officer , Detective Anthony James , wore a camera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ letter found Cosgrove was exonerated for a violation of de-escalation procedures .
Follow Tessa Duvall and Darcy Costello on Twitter : @ TessaDuvall and @ dctello

Tessa Duvall and Darcy Costello, Louisville Courier Journal

Officer who fatally shot Breonna Taylor didn't identify target before spraying apartment with bullets, chief says
Show Caption Hide Caption Breonna Taylor case: Grand jury recordings of decision released A previous version of this video misstated the total length of recordings based on initial information provided by Kentucky AG Daniel Cameron. USA TODAY
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Detective Myles Cosgrove failed to "properly identify a target" when he fired 16 rounds into Breonna Taylor's apartment the night Louisville Metro Police fatally shot the 26-year-old Black woman, according to a copy of his pretermination letter obtained by The Courier Journal, part of the USA TODAY Network.
In seeking his firing, interim Chief Yvette Gentry found Cosgrove violated Louisville Metro Police procedures for his use of force and failing to use a body camera during the March 13 raid.
Cosgrove, the FBI concluded, fired the shot that killed Taylor, hitting her pulmonary artery. But his rounds sprayed the apartment, and he wasn't certain what he was shooting at, according to the letter.
His shots came seconds after another officer, Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly, had been shot in the thigh by Taylor's boyfriend after police had rammed in the front door while trying to serve a search warrant during a narcotics investigation.
"The shots you fired went in three distinctly different directions, demonstrating that you did not identify a specific target," Gentry wrote. "Rather, you fired in a manner consistent with suppressive fire, which is in direct contradiction to our training, values and policy."
Dec. 29: Louisville police seek to fire 2 more officers connected to fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor
Gentry wrote that her decision regarding the use of deadly force was based on three interviews Cosgrove gave: one to Public Integrity Unit criminal investigators, a second to the Attorney General's Office and a third to the Professional Standards Unit investigation for policy violations.
"It appears you fired 16 rounds after Mr. (Kenneth) Walker fired one round," Gentry wrote. "Two rounds were found in Ms. Taylor's body and were identified as fired from your firearm, one being the fatal shot."
Cosgrove's attorney, Jarrod Beck, couldn't immediately be reached for comment Wednesday.
Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said in September his criminal investigation had concluded officers Cosgrove and Mattingly were justified in returning fire because Tayor's boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, fired his weapon first. Walker said he thought intruders were breaking in.
2 officers receive pretermination letters
Cosgrove and Detective Joshua Jaynes, who secured the warrant for Taylor's apartment, both received pretermination letters Tuesday for violating LMPD policy.
Each will have a hearing with Gentry and her team Thursday morning in which they can present a defense. After that, the chief will decide whether to finalize their terminations.
LMPD has not publicly released the letters sent to Cosgrove or Janyes — directly contradicting the department's handling of the firing of former Detective Brett Hankison in June.
The department released his pretermination letter the same day it was served at the orders of then-interim Chief Robert Schroeder.
Sgt. John Bradley, a spokesman for the department, said Schroeder opted to release the letter firing Hankison "based on his reasoning."
He said there are no plans to release any paperwork associated with the Professional Standards Unit case until the completion of those cases.
However, Gentry's letters to both Cosgrove and Jaynes say, "The investigation conducted by the Louisville Metro Police Department's Professional Standards Unit is now complete."
Dec. 28: A ceramic bust of Breonna Taylor was vandalized in California. The sculptor calls it a 'racist attack,' vows to rebuild in bronze.
Ben Crump, Lonita Baker and Sam Aguiar, attorneys for Taylor's family, are still calling for the officers to be criminally charged, too, saying police "lies, deceit and reckless actions led directly" to Taylor's death.
"There is no revelation here," they wrote in a statement Wednesday. "We’ve known since Bre’s killing that her death was a direct result of the lies, corruption, and complete malfeasance of the Louisville Metro Police Department. We applaud the diligent efforts of Chief Gentry who stepped in to investigate the events surrounding Breonna Taylor’s murder and not simply defer to the incompetence of the Attorney General’s office."
Jaynes' pre-termination letter cites him for violations of department policy on search warrant execution preparation and truthfulness. pic.twitter.com/jVDsZCGcwP — Darcy Costello (@dctello) December 29, 2020
Detective Cosgrove describes shooting
When interviewed by LMPD investigators 12 days after Taylor's death, Cosgrove described the warrant execution in surreal terms.
Gentry honed in on these statements in her letter.
Cosgrove said he fired at a "distorted shadowy figure" inside the apartment and at a "distorted shadowy mask."
"In your statement, you did not describe target isolation or target identification and instead described flashes that you did not properly evaluate as a threat," Gentry wrote. "Had you evaluated the threat accurately, you would have likely stopped firing once the gunfire had stopped."
He also made conflicting statements that were not questioned by the investigators, Sgt. Amanda Seelye and Sgt. Jason Vance.
Cosgrove said at one juncture he never heard any gunfire, but at another point he told Seelye and Vance he was “deafened” by it.
He also said he used a high-powered flashlight to illuminate the apartment but was “immediately overwhelmed with darkness.”
Cosgrove described how “this darkness in front of me" was "followed by — and this is hard for me to explain — this distorted shadowy mask, this figurine, this figure in front of me that is just … coming and going due to the flash fog light.”
Read more on race and identity: Sign up for USA TODAY’s This Is America newsletter
The interviewers didn't ask him if the figure was male or female, Black or white, or if he saw one person or more than one.
But Cosgrove responded clearly when attorney Steve Schroering, then his counsel, asked him at the end of the interview: “At the time you were in that doorway with Mattingly, did you have any question in your mind that your all's lives were in danger?”
“Absolutely not,” Cosgrove replied. “I knew for a fact that we were in danger of being killed or seriously injured."
Steve Romines, an attorney for Walker, said Cosgrove's actions are "practically the definition of wanton murder under Kentucky law."
No body-camera footage of Breonna Taylor shooting
There was no body-camera footage of the shooting that left Taylor, who was unarmed, dead in the hallway of her apartment.
Cosgrove was photographed after the raid with a body camera mount on his vest, but no camera.
Gentry noted Cosgrove "failed to activate your assigned WVS (wearable video system) in recording mode prior to your engagement in this law enforcement activity."
Another officer, Detective Anthony James, wore a camera but it was not activated.
The letter found Cosgrove was exonerated for a violation of de-escalation procedures.
Follow Tessa Duvall and Darcy Costello on Twitter: @TessaDuvall and @dctello


usatoday--2020-12-31--Gov. Newsom and Dr. Fauci discuss California's first case of more contagious COVID strain

Gov .
Newsom and Dr. Fauci discuss California 's first case of more contagious COVID strain Gov .
Gavin Newsom @ @ @ @ @ with Dr. Anthony Fauci , who said he was not surprised by the finding in @ @

COVID-19: California reports its first case of more contagious strain
Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke in an online conversation with Dr. Anthony Fauci, who said he was not surprised by the finding in California.
Associated Press, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-30--Dog struggles to walk in new winter booties in Minnesota

Dog struggles to walk in new winter booties in Minnesota This dog is struggling to walk in his new snow @ @

Dog tries to walk in snow booties
This dog is struggling to walk in his new snow booties.
USA TODAY, Storyful


usatoday--2020-12-30--Four hacks to enjoy champagne on New Year's Eve

Four hacks to enjoy champagne on New Year 's Eve Get the most out of your bubbly with these fun @ @ @

New Year's Eve: 4 hacks to enjoy a bottle of champagne
Get the most out of your bubbly with these fun champagne hacks.
ProblemSolved, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-30--Parade viewing stands dismantled near White House as Biden team seeks to discourage inauguration cro


usatoday--2020-12-30--How a Trump presidential library will have an 'unconventional' story to tell

An impeachment trial .
A once-in-a-century pandemic .
A baseless post-election challenge .
And that 's just one year of the Trump presidency , which is scheduled to conclude at noon on Jan. 20 .
`` This is totally a unique presidency , '' said Wesley Borucki , associate professor of history at Palm Beach Atlantic University .
`` Everything about the Trump presidency has been unconventional , '' said historian Robert Watson at Lynn University .
`` To the point where I 've been joking with some friends of mine that we are going to have to rewrite all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we said , what every textbook said , was a truism of the office . ''
Ordinarily , a focus of a president 's last months in office is preparing to enshrine their historic legacy in a library and museum .
President Donald Trump , however , has spent the time since his Nov. 3 loss in a failed attempt to challenge the election results .
His claims have gotten nowhere in state and federal courts , have been adamantly disputed by federal and state elections officials and have been dismissed by his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director — all who flatly stated President-elect Joe Biden won last month 's election fairly .
What story would a Trump library tell ?
Moreover , it does not look like Trump has ever — as president — tweeted his thoughts , views or plans for a presidential library and museum .
A search for those words and terms on trumptwitterarchive.com came up empty .
But that did n't stop the Palm Beach Post from asking two Palm Beach County presidential historians to assess the Trump legacy — and to tell us what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Presidential Library and Museum might be .
Post-presidency at Mar-a-Lago : What Trump can expect when he leaves the White House For starters , here are four things to know about presidential libraries and museums : • The papers , records and documents of modern U.S. presidents , beginning with those who served early in the 20th century , are stored in presidential libraries and museums that have become much more elaborate and extensive as fundraising and public interest has grown .
The National Archives ' Presidential Library System is comprised of 14 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barack Obama .
• The post-Watergate Presidential Records Act granted legal possession of presidential papers , records and documents to the public .
Before then , those items were considered property of the president , and often were sold off , gifted or destroyed .
Today , they are public property and in the custodial hands of the National Archives and Records Administration .
• If Trump locates his presidential museum in Florida , it wo n't be the first .
In Key West , the Harry S. Truman Little White House museum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 trips to Key West , and even signed legislation creating Everglades National Park on one of his visits .
• But no U.S. president made Florida their residence , as Trump has .
As such , local speculation is his museum and library could be based here in a state he won twice , visited dozens of times as president and where he remains popular , especially among Republicans .
Both Borucki and Watson say the narrative will be unlike any in modern presidencies .
Borucki , who is writing a biography @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the historic moments during visits to Florida are pieces of a larger mosaic that will go down as a consequential presidency .
He said Trump 's political career will ultimately result in a realignment of American politics that may redefine ideological lines more focused on globalist versus nationalist and populist versus establishment dichotomies .
`` We 've been talking about differences between liberals and conservatives , between Republicans and Democrats for so long , '' he said .
`` And every so often we have a realignment in American history .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Along with that , Borucki said , the use of Twitter and social media to `` go over the media 's heads '' to speak to his base reconfigured presidential communications .
`` A lot of people were won over by his fighting spirit , and that comes out in the rallies , too , '' he said .
Exclusive:50 % of Americans say Trump will be seen as 'failed ' president He also said the tariff war with China and its president , Xi Jinping , whom Trump hosted at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the rewrite of the North American trade pact , as well Middle East peace efforts , will be hallmarks of his legacy .
So will the nominations of three Supreme Court justices and the reshaping of the federal bench , Borucki said .
`` You 're going to see the effects of that for decades , '' he said .
`` When you think about the legacy of the Trump presidency , there are a number of moments that are significant . ''
A dispassionate telling of the Trump presidency or 'alternative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ presidents have built their libraries in partnership with the NARA .
But Watson , who co-founded a Truman Little White House symposium , said he fears the relationship between Trump and the federal records administration `` would be testy at best , if nonexistent '' as have been the president 's dealings with government agencies .
Worse , Watson said he is concerned a Trump museum would become `` a monument to himself . ''
Rather than a dispassionate telling of the story of the past four years , Watson said , Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his view — of events .
Watson , who is on the board of the foundation that raises money for the Truman Little White House , said he has visited almost all the presidential libraries .
While all have `` a degree of celebratory '' feel to their exhibits , he said , the facilities are `` dedicated '' to a fair telling of history and preserving `` access to records . ''
`` The thing that has always been remarkable to me is how honest and forthright they are , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ These libraries show the president 's legacy with all of its warts and pimples . ''
Watson said an example of presidential museum storytelling he is very familiar with is Truman 's in Independence , Missouri .
The museum exhibits include a pro and con debate on whether Truman should have authorized the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan to end World War II .
Watson is concerned that Trump will use the narrative in his library to misrepresent his legacy with a `` reinvented , over-flattering '' portrayal of his leadership and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instance , in foreign policy , he fears Trump will present a `` dark '' picture of world affairs to claim achievement in ending the Paris climate accord and the Iran nuclear deal , and to justify the badgering of allies and strategic international alliances .
`` One worries that this museum will present a very dark and inaccurate portrayal of the world and will go back to the ugliest aspects of nationalism with America at the center , America first , '' he said .
Year of tumult in politics : How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the road' Ditto for domestic policy , from the effort to build a border wall to the trade war to resurrect U.S. manufacturing to `` bringing back coal '' as part of an energy strategy .
The hyperbole , he said , may even occlude legitimate milestones , from criminal justice reform to the `` Operation Warp Speed '' that ushered a coronavirus vaccine .
`` With Trump , you automatically wonder whether what is being put in the library is truthful , '' he said .
`` We have alternative facts .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ truth . ''
The damaging part of this is that presidential museums are more than tourist attractions and political meccas for the partisan faithful .
They are sentinels of history .
`` That could have definite ramifications , as the people who visit his library probably would not visit the Truman or the Reagan or the Obama libraries , '' he said .
`` That would be a monument to nationalism and to an inaccurate portrayal of the global order .
That is worrisome at best . ''

How a Trump presidential library will have an 'unconventional' story to tell
An impeachment trial. A once-in-a-century pandemic. A baseless post-election challenge. And that's just one year of the Trump presidency, which is scheduled to conclude at noon on Jan. 20.
"This is totally a unique presidency," said Wesley Borucki, associate professor of history at Palm Beach Atlantic University.
"Everything about the Trump presidency has been unconventional," said historian Robert Watson at Lynn University. "To the point where I've been joking with some friends of mine that we are going to have to rewrite all the textbooks because he has violated everything we said, what every textbook said, was a truism of the office."
Ordinarily, a focus of a president's last months in office is preparing to enshrine their historic legacy in a library and museum.
President Donald Trump, however, has spent the time since his Nov. 3 loss in a failed attempt to challenge the election results. His claims have gotten nowhere in state and federal courts, have been adamantly disputed by federal and state elections officials and have been dismissed by his former attorney general and his current FBI director — all who flatly stated President-elect Joe Biden won last month's election fairly.
What story would a Trump library tell?
Moreover, it does not look like Trump has ever — as president — tweeted his thoughts, views or plans for a presidential library and museum. A search for those words and terms on trumptwitterarchive.com came up empty.
But that didn't stop the Palm Beach Post from asking two Palm Beach County presidential historians to assess the Trump legacy — and to tell us what the narrative in a Donald J. Trump Presidential Library and Museum might be.
Post-presidency at Mar-a-Lago: What Trump can expect when he leaves the White House
For starters, here are four things to know about presidential libraries and museums:
The papers, records and documents of modern U.S. presidents, beginning with those who served early in the 20th century, are stored in presidential libraries and museums that have become much more elaborate and extensive as fundraising and public interest has grown. The National Archives' Presidential Library System is comprised of 14 presidential libraries from Presidents Herbert Hoover through Barack Obama.
The post-Watergate Presidential Records Act granted legal possession of presidential papers, records and documents to the public. Before then, those items were considered property of the president, and often were sold off, gifted or destroyed. Today, they are public property and in the custodial hands of the National Archives and Records Administration.
If Trump locates his presidential museum in Florida, it won't be the first. In Key West, the Harry S. Truman Little White House museum is a historic site. Truman made 11 trips to Key West, and even signed legislation creating Everglades National Park on one of his visits.
But no U.S. president made Florida their residence, as Trump has. As such, local speculation is his museum and library could be based here in a state he won twice, visited dozens of times as president and where he remains popular, especially among Republicans.
Both Borucki and Watson say the narrative will be unlike any in modern presidencies.
Borucki, who is writing a biography of Trump slated for 2022, has said the historic moments during visits to Florida are pieces of a larger mosaic that will go down as a consequential presidency.
He said Trump's political career will ultimately result in a realignment of American politics that may redefine ideological lines more focused on globalist versus nationalist and populist versus establishment dichotomies.
"We've been talking about differences between liberals and conservatives, between Republicans and Democrats for so long," he said. "And every so often we have a realignment in American history. We've been kind of overdue for one."
Along with that, Borucki said, the use of Twitter and social media to "go over the media's heads" to speak to his base reconfigured presidential communications.
"A lot of people were won over by his fighting spirit, and that comes out in the rallies, too," he said.
Exclusive: 50% of Americans say Trump will be seen as 'failed' president
He also said the tariff war with China and its president, Xi Jinping, whom Trump hosted at a Mar-a-Lago summit in April 2017, and the rewrite of the North American trade pact, as well Middle East peace efforts, will be hallmarks of his legacy.
So will the nominations of three Supreme Court justices and the reshaping of the federal bench, Borucki said.
"You're going to see the effects of that for decades," he said. "When you think about the legacy of the Trump presidency, there are a number of moments that are significant."
A dispassionate telling of the Trump presidency or 'alternative facts'?
Watson said previous former presidents have built their libraries in partnership with the NARA. But Watson, who co-founded a Truman Little White House symposium, said he fears the relationship between Trump and the federal records administration "would be testy at best, if nonexistent" as have been the president's dealings with government agencies.
Worse, Watson said he is concerned a Trump museum would become "a monument to himself." Rather than a dispassionate telling of the story of the past four years, Watson said, Trump will want his version — and only his view — of events.
What watchdogs? Trump leaves office with inspector general jobs vacant
Watson, who is on the board of the foundation that raises money for the Truman Little White House, said he has visited almost all the presidential libraries. While all have "a degree of celebratory" feel to their exhibits, he said, the facilities are "dedicated" to a fair telling of history and preserving "access to records."
"The thing that has always been remarkable to me is how honest and forthright they are," he said of the presidential museums. "These libraries show the president's legacy with all of its warts and pimples."
Watson said an example of presidential museum storytelling he is very familiar with is Truman's in Independence, Missouri. The museum exhibits include a pro and con debate on whether Truman should have authorized the dropping of atomic bombs on Japan to end World War II.
Watson is concerned that Trump will use the narrative in his library to misrepresent his legacy with a "reinvented, over-flattering" portrayal of his leadership and the events that took place.
For instance, in foreign policy, he fears Trump will present a "dark" picture of world affairs to claim achievement in ending the Paris climate accord and the Iran nuclear deal, and to justify the badgering of allies and strategic international alliances.
"One worries that this museum will present a very dark and inaccurate portrayal of the world and will go back to the ugliest aspects of nationalism with America at the center, America first," he said.
Year of tumult in politics: How 2020 creates 'a big fork in the road'
Ditto for domestic policy, from the effort to build a border wall to the trade war to resurrect U.S. manufacturing to "bringing back coal" as part of an energy strategy.
The hyperbole, he said, may even occlude legitimate milestones, from criminal justice reform to the "Operation Warp Speed" that ushered a coronavirus vaccine.
"With Trump, you automatically wonder whether what is being put in the library is truthful," he said. "We have alternative facts. We've had a war on the truth."
The damaging part of this is that presidential museums are more than tourist attractions and political meccas for the partisan faithful. They are sentinels of history.
"That could have definite ramifications, as the people who visit his library probably would not visit the Truman or the Reagan or the Obama libraries," he said. "That would be a monument to nationalism and to an inaccurate portrayal of the global order. That is worrisome at best."


usatoday--2020-12-30--Live politics updates: Fate of $2,000 stimulus checks remains uncertain

This week , USA TODAY Politics focuses on the run-up to President-elect Joe Biden 's inauguration , his remaining Cabinet picks and the final week of the current Congress .
Jan. 3 : New Congress is sworn in .
Jan. 6 : Congress will count and certify the electoral results in a joint session .
Jan. 20 : Inauguration of Biden , who will take the oath of office .
Be sure to refresh this page often to get the latest information on the transition .
Sen. Josh Hawley , a Missouri Republican , says he will object to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meets to officially certify President-elect Joe Biden 's win over President Donald Trump , ensuring a doomed but dramatic congressional fight to overturn Biden 's win .
Hawley , a close ally of the president , is the first senator to announce he would back the effort on Jan. 6 , ensuring both chambers will debate and be forced to vote on whether to overturn Biden 's election win .
A faction of conservative House Republicans , led by Mo .
Brooks , R-Ala. , have already said they will object to electoral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won , such as Pennsylvania ad Georgia .
Trump has repeatedly called on congressional Republicans to step up and object on his behalf , but many have acknowledged Biden 's win .
Some went as far to call the effort to object meaningless .
The effort , however , is doomed to fail in the Democratic-controlled House and even in the Senate , where Republican leaders led by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have warned colleagues not to challenge the Electoral College vote .
A proposal from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to raise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could scuttle chances of passing the increased aid checks .
President Donald Trump has demanded that Congress increase the aid payments included in a $ 900 billion coronavirus relief package from $ 600 to $ 2,000 .
The Kentucky Republican introduced a bill Tuesday that includes two other Trump demands that Democrats are not likely to support .
The measure would increase checks to $ 2,000 but also repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act , which grants certain legal protections for big tech companies , and establish a commission to study @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many of the concerns Trump has raised since losing the election and make recommendations to Congress .
The president has n't provided proof to back his claims , and the Justice Department found no evidence of widespread fraud in last month 's election .
New voting restrictions : GOP seeks to roll back mail-in voting in states like Georgia , Pennsylvania Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer , D-N.Y. , said there was no way Democrats would support the legislation and it stood no chance of reaching Trump 's desk .
Democrats called on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stimulus checks .
Meanwhile , the Treasury Department is has begun issuing the $ 600 payments .
The department said payments would begin for Americans with direct deposit set up through the Internal Revenue Service as soon as Tuesday night .
Paper checks will begin to be mailed Wednesday .
McConnell 's bill has n't been scheduled for a vote , and it 's unclear whether it will receive the backing of Senate Republicans .
Some have voiced support for increasing relief checks , but most are opposed .
Holding a vote on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spot to either reject Trump 's demands for increased checks or relent on long-held objections to adding to the debt .

Live politics updates: Donald Trump to cut short Florida holiday, return to Washington; Fate of $2,000 stimulus checks remains uncertain
Show Caption Hide Caption House approves $2,000 COVID-19 stimulus checks President Donald Trump has also called for the $2,000 stimulus checks. Staff Video, USA TODAY
This week, USA TODAY Politics focuses on the run-up to President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration, his remaining Cabinet picks and the final week of the current Congress.
Dates to watch:
Jan. 3: New Congress is sworn in.
Jan. 5: Senate runoff election in Georgia.
Jan. 6: Congress will count and certify the electoral results in a joint session.
Jan. 20: Inauguration of Biden, who will take the oath of office.
Be sure to refresh this page often to get the latest information on the transition.
President Donald Trump will cut his annual holiday trip to Florida short and return to Washington on New Year’s Eve, the White House said Wednesday.
The announcement came hours after media reports indicated Trump would go forward with an annual New Year’s Eve celebration at his Palm Beach club, Mar-a-Lago, amid the coronavirus pandemic. White House officials did not disclose the reason for Trump’s decision to return to the White House on Thursday.
Trump has kept a low profile in Florida since arriving on Dec. 23 and has rarely been seen outside the golf course. Instead of providing a detailed schedule, the White House said only that he was working “tirelessly for the American people” and would take “many meetings and calls.”
The president’s return date had long been somewhat in the air, but he has in the past attended the annual black-tie New Year’s Eve celebration at Mar-a-Lago.
Trump’s return comes as his demand for $2,000 stimulus checks for millions of Americans appears to be dead. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has tied the larger checks to two other provisions – eliminating legal protections for social media companies and creating a commission to study the 2020 election – that are widely opposed by Democrats.
— John Fritze
Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, says he will object to the Electoral College results next week when Congress meets to officially certify President-elect Joe Biden's win over President Donald Trump, ensuring a doomed but dramatic congressional fight to overturn Biden's win.
Hawley, a close ally of the president, is the first senator to announce he would back the effort on Jan. 6, ensuring both chambers will debate and be forced to vote on whether to overturn Biden's election win. A faction of conservative House Republicans, led by Mo. Brooks, R-Ala., have already said they will object to electoral votes from some battleground states that Biden won, such as Pennsylvania ad Georgia.
Biden won the Dec. 14 Electoral College vote 306-232.
Trump has repeatedly called on congressional Republicans to step up and object on his behalf, but many have acknowledged Biden's win. Some went as far to call the effort to object meaningless.
The effort, however, is doomed to fail in the Democratic-controlled House and even in the Senate, where Republican leaders led by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have warned colleagues not to challenge the Electoral College vote.
Read the full story.
— Christal Hayes and Joey Garrison
A proposal from Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to raise stimulus checks to Americans to $2,000 could scuttle chances of passing the increased aid checks.
President Donald Trump has demanded that Congress increase the aid payments included in a $900 billion coronavirus relief package from $600 to $2,000.
The Kentucky Republican introduced a bill Tuesday that includes two other Trump demands that Democrats are not likely to support. The measure would increase checks to $2,000 but also repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which grants certain legal protections for big tech companies, and establish a commission to study election fraud.
The commission would examine many of the concerns Trump has raised since losing the election and make recommendations to Congress. The president hasn't provided proof to back his claims, and the Justice Department found no evidence of widespread fraud in last month's election.
New voting restrictions: GOP seeks to roll back mail-in voting in states like Georgia, Pennsylvania
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said there was no way Democrats would support the legislation and it stood no chance of reaching Trump's desk. Democrats called on McConnell to pass a standalone proposal on stimulus checks.
Meanwhile, the Treasury Department is has begun issuing the $600 payments. The department said payments would begin for Americans with direct deposit set up through the Internal Revenue Service as soon as Tuesday night. Paper checks will begin to be mailed Wednesday.
McConnell's bill hasn't been scheduled for a vote, and it's unclear whether it will receive the backing of Senate Republicans. Some have voiced support for increasing relief checks, but most are opposed.
Holding a vote on the measure would put Republican senators on the spot to either reject Trump's demands for increased checks or relent on long-held objections to adding to the debt.
— Christal Hayes and staff reports